Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Yujin sat hunched over in his chair at the gamer café, fingers drumming rhythmically against his keyboard. The clacking sounds were sharp and aggressive as he navigated the game with a growing sense of frustration. It had been one of those days again — one where he didn’t want to go home, didn’t want to think about life, and certainly didn’t want to be reminded of the mess he was stuck in. Gaming was his escape, his way of blowing off steam.

But today, nothing was going his way.

"KimchiEminem" flashed on the screen — his gamer ID, a combination of his love for hip-hop and Korean food — and right now, KimchiEminem was getting wrecked.

"Who the hell is this LoveDive?" he muttered under his breath, fingers flying across the keys to type out a message in the chat. He was getting outplayed, but his pride wasn’t going to let him take it without throwing some trash talk.

KimchiEminem: Yo, LoveDive, you sure you know how to play? Your moves are all over the place.

He hit "Enter" and leaned back, feeling the tiniest bit of satisfaction. Surely, that would throw his opponent off. But there was no immediate response, just more sharp gameplay from the mysterious user "LoveDive." His irritation grew with every perfectly timed counter from the other player. This was supposed to be fun. It was supposed to be easy.

KimchiEminem: I could teach you some real skills, noobs like you need all the help they can get.

He grinned smugly to himself, “this fucking amateur!” he said, waiting for a reaction, but when a reply finally came, it wasn’t what he expected.

***

Wonyoung sighed as she shut her notebook and stretched her arms above her head. Hours of research had left her brain feeling like mush, and her old, battered laptop had given up on her halfway through. She'd planned on finishing her schoolwork at home, but with the laptop’s untimely demise, she’d ended up here at the gamer café, squeezing in some research on one of the rented computers. Now, with her work done, she still had time left before her session expired, so she figured she'd unwind by playing a quick game.

It had been ages since she’d played seriously. Law school didn’t exactly leave her much free time, but with her research out of the way, she allowed herself a small indulgence. She logged into her old gaming account — LoveDive — and slipped back into a world she hadn’t visited in a while. She didn’t expect much, just a quick game before heading home.

But the moment she joined a match, someone started trash-talking her. 

***

Wonyoung’s eyes narrowed. She glanced toward the source of the noise and immediately saw him — a tall guy a few seats down, loud and clearly irritated. He was banging away at his keyboard, probably frustrated that she was handing him his defeat in-game. Wonyoung smiled faintly to herself and typed a reply. 

LoveDive: All bark, no bite, huh? We’ll see about that.

A small rush of satisfaction ran through Wonyoung as she executed her next move flawlessly, leaving no room for him to recover. She could hear his grumbling from across the café, his frustrated muttering making it all too obvious who he was. His trash talk kept flowing, his arrogance growing with every failed attempt to beat her. 

Yujin blinked. A bold one. That only made him more determined to win. His fingers moved faster, his attacks more calculated, but LoveDive was relentless. Move after move, they outplayed him, and it started to feel less like a game and more like a personal challenge. He wasn’t used to losing like this — especially not to some random player who probably didn’t even know what they were doing.

His heart raced, frustration bubbling beneath the surface. He typed again.

KimchiEminem: Man, you’re just lucky today. If we had a real match, you'd be toast.

This time, the reply was instant.

LoveDive: If this is you trying, you might wanna practice some more. Pretty embarrassing for someone who’s been playing this long.

Wonyoung rolled her eyes. She had no idea who this guy thought he was, but it was clear he wasn’t used to losing. She let her next move speak for itself, beating him soundly once more. She wasn't usually competitive, but something about his attitude made her want to crush him.

The match ended, and she glanced at the time. Her gaming session was almost up, and she had no intention of renewing it. She gathered her things, ready to leave when something caught her attention

Yujin scowled at the screen. Who the hell was this person? He was about to type back when he noticed movement out of the corner of his eye.

***

Yujin barely glanced at her, too focused on the screen, but then his friend Seulwoo nudged him hard.

"Yo, that girl over there," Seulwoo whispered, leaning in close. "She’s coming this way. Oh, it’s Wonyoung."

Yujin finally tore his eyes from the screen and glanced up. The woman was tall, her dark hair spilling over her shoulders in waves. She was walking straight toward him, and it took Yujin a second to realize she wasn’t just some random passerby — she was looking directly at him.

As she approached, Seulwoo’s grin widened. "I think you’ve been loud enough for half the café to hear you," he said, stifling a laugh. "I’m guessing she’s been hearing you too."
Yujin frowned, still not connecting the dots. "What are you talking about?"

The guy — KimchiEminem, she presumed—looked up, confused. He didn’t recognize her, but Wonyoung knew exactly who he was. His loud voice had carried over the café during their entire match, and now, seeing him in person, it all clicked. She had just wiped the floor with him, and he had no idea. 

Before Seulwoo could explain, the woman stopped in front of Yujin’s table. Her sharp gaze flicked over him, a faint smirk tugging at the corners of her lips. It was like she already knew exactly who he was. And then she spoke, confirming everything in one breath.

A slight smirk tugged at her lips as she stepped out from behind the counter, heading in his direction. She could feel his confusion growing as she approached. His friend, nudged him, trying to clue him in, but the guy still seemed clueless.

When she stopped in front of him, her gaze steady, she could see the dawning realization on his face. His eyes widened as if he suddenly understood who she was.

"You must be KimchiEminem," she said, her tone calm but edged with amusement.

Yujin’s mind short-circuited. This beautiful girl was LoveDive? She had been sitting in the café the whole time, listening to him trash-talk her while destroying him in - game?

He blinked rapidly, scrambling for words, but they got stuck in his throat. "Uh..." His usual confidence evaporated. "I didn’t realize you were... here... uh... hi?"

The smirk on her face deepened. "You were so confident earlier. What happened?" she asked smoothly, crossing her arms as she looked him up and down, clearly enjoying his discomfort. The guy blinked at her, his usual bravado completely gone. He swallowed hard, clearly flustered.

The awkwardness of his response only made her smirk deepen. His loud arrogance from earlier had vanished, replaced with an almost endearing awkwardness. He looked like he’d rather be anywhere else at that moment. Wonyoung, on the other hand, found the whole situation amusing. She had no reason to be mad — she’d won, after all.

"Better luck next time noob," she said, giving him one last look before turning on her heel and walking away. As she exited the café, she couldn’t help but chuckle to herself. She didn’t know what she had expected when she logged in as LoveDive today, but this had definitely been worth it. 

Yujin could feel his face heat up as the realization of just how loud he’d been sunk in. She had heard everything. His trash talk, his arrogant remarks — it was all out in the open now. And she didn’t seem the least bit fazed. If anything, she looked amused.

Wonyoung turned to leave, her posture relaxed and confident, while Yujin sat there, still processing the fact that he’d been trashing someone like her. His fingers hovered uselessly over the keyboard, completely frozen.

Seulwoo burst out laughing the moment she was out of earshot, slapping Yujin on the shoulder. "Man, you just got destroyed by a girl, and she heard every word of your trash talk! I bet she’ll remember that for a long time."

Yujin let out a slow breath, running a hand through his hair. He couldn’t shake the image of her, standing there with that cool smirk, completely unfazed by him. For the first time in a long time, Yujin felt off his game — literally and figuratively.

"I’m so screwed," he muttered under his breath, already knowing he wouldn’t forget this encounter any time soon.

Yujin sat frozen in his seat, eyes glued to the door as Wonyoung disappeared into the night. The shock of realizing who he'd been trash - talking still echoed in his mind. His fingers were still resting on the keyboard, unmoving, and his heart was beating faster than it had during their game.

She was... beautiful. He hadn’t expected that. Not even close.

For a moment, all he could do was stare blankly, her image burned into his thoughts — the way she had looked at him with that calm, almost amused expression. His brain lagged behind, trying to catch up to the fact that LoveDive was the same girl who had just handed him his in-game defeat with no effort. And in person? She was even more stunning than he'd imagined.

Seulwoo’s voice cut through the haze. "Dude... you okay? You look like you’ve seen a ghost."

Yujin blinked, snapping out of his daze. He hadn’t even realized how long he’d been sitting there, just staring into space. His hands clenched the edge of the table, and suddenly, it hit him — he hadn’t apologized. He'd let her walk away, and the only thing that had come out of his mouth was a pathetic "hi."

I need to apologize. His pulse quickened at the thought. Yujin stood up abruptly, the legs of his chair scraping loudly against the floor.

Seulwoo chuckled behind him. "What’s the rush? You gonna go after her?"

Yujin ignored him, already moving toward the door. The cool air hit his face as he stepped outside, and for a moment, panic flashed through him. What if she was already gone? What if he missed his chance? But then he saw her, just a few paces ahead, walking slowly down the street. He hesitated, nerves bubbling up. What was he going to say? He barely knew her, and yet here he was, running after a girl he’d just insulted online. But there was no turning back now. He jogged to catch up with her.

"Hey!" he called out, breathless as he finally reached her.

Wonyoung stopped and turned around, her expression calm but curious. As Yujin got closer, his heart skipped a beat. Up close, she was even more breathtaking. Her long hair framed her face perfectly, and her eyes sparkled under the streetlights. He stood there, staring for a second too long, completely taken by how effortlessly beautiful she was.

Wonyoung’s gaze, on the other hand, swept over him briefly. He looked young. Younger than she had expected. His black hoodie, slightly oversized, and cargo pants gave him a boyish, almost childish vibe, like someone who hadn’t quite grown out of his teenage phase. And yet, despite the casual clothes and his slightly awkward stance, he was undeniably handsome.

But still... childish.

She raised an eyebrow, waiting for him to speak. "Yes?"

Yujin swallowed hard, suddenly aware of how dumb he probably looked, just standing there gawking. "Uh... I wanted to apologize," he finally managed to say, his voice coming out a little too fast. "For what I said in the game. I didn’t realize it was... you."

Wonyoung’s lips twitched as if she was amused by his sudden change in demeanor. So this is the loud, cocky guy from the café? Up close, he didn’t seem nearly as intimidating.
"Apology accepted," she said simply, her tone light, but she didn’t move to leave just yet, as if waiting to see what he would do next.

Yujin rubbed the back of his neck, feeling like he was floundering. His usual confidence was nowhere to be found, and he couldn’t stop his gaze from flicking back to her face. She was standing so close now that he could make out every delicate feature — her beautiful eyes, her moles, the faint curve of her lips — and it was throwing him off balance.

"Uh, yeah..." He cleared his throat, trying to pull himself together. "I just didn’t want to leave things like that, you know? I mean, I was being an idiot, and you were obviously way better than me in the game." He let out a nervous chuckle. "And then when I saw you... I mean, I didn’t expect—"

He cut himself off before he could embarrass himself further. What was he even saying?

Wonyoung tilted her head, a smile playing on her lips as if she could read his thoughts. "You didn’t expect what? That I’d be a girl?"

Yujin’s face turned red. "No! I mean... not just that. I didn’t expect you to..." He stopped himself again. Be so pretty. He couldn’t say that. Not now, at least. Instead, he looked away for a second, composing himself.

She let out a small laugh, and he couldn’t tell if it was because of his awkwardness or if she found him amusing. Either way, it wasn’t the reaction he expected. 

"I wasn’t trying to be a jerk," Yujin added, his voice quieter now. "I just got carried away. I mean, you’re obviously good — better than me, for sure." He chuckled nervously, scratching the back of his neck. "Anyway... sorry about all the trash talk." 

"Well, I’m not holding a grudge," Wonyoung said after a pause, her voice softer now. "Like I said, it’s just a game."

Yujin felt a wave of relief at her words. But even though she had let him off the hook, he found himself wanting to say more, to keep her standing there a little longer. There was something about her that made him feel like this chance encounter wasn’t just something he could brush off.

"So... do you come here a lot?" he asked, trying to sound casual but feeling the awkwardness creeping back in.

Wonyoung shook her head. "Not really. My laptop died, so I came here to finish some schoolwork. Just killing time now."

He cleared his throat, trying to sound more composed. “I didn’t get to introduce myself properly. I’m Yujin, by the way. A business major at Hanseong University, and I live in the Bamboo dorm.” 

At the mention of Hanseong University, Wonyoung tilted her head slightly, her expression unreadable. Hanseong — wasn’t that the school with the notoriously high tuition fees? She glanced over Yujin, and things started to make sense. Expensive watch. Branded shoes. Even the casual black hoodie and cargo pants looked like they were part of some curated look rather than something he’d thrown on.

So, he’s one of those guys, Wonyoung thought to herself. Rich, probably spoiled, and with all the time in the world to waste in gaming. She didn’t have time for this. Especially not with a guy who looked like he wasn’t taking anything seriously.

“You live in Bamboo?” she asked, mildly intrigued despite herself.

“Yeah, I’m in room 305,” Yujin said, a grin spreading across his face. 

At this, Wonyoung’s eyes widened slightly. “Room 305?” she echoed, her voice laced with disbelief. “That’s the room I used to stay in.”

For a second, Yujin just stared at her, a grin breaking across his face. “No way. You’re kidding.”

“I’m not,” she replied, her lips twitching with the hint of a smile. “I’m Jang Wonyoung, by the way. I’m studying pre-law,” she said firmly, as if to set a boundary right from the start. She was studying him for a moment longer. He was tall, and really cute, but it was obvious he came from wealth or just irresponsibly trying to be flashy. And judging by his casual attitude, he didn’t have any real responsibilities weighing him down. Yeah, this isn’t for me, she thought.

Yujin chuckled awkwardly, trying to keep the conversation light. “Wow. What are the odds? It’s like fate or something, right?”

Wonyoung raised an eyebrow, clearly unimpressed by the flirting undertone. She knew exactly where he was going with this, and while part of her found it mildly entertaining, she wasn’t about to indulge him. “Fate, huh?” Her voice was dry, almost teasing, but there was no mistaking the warning in her tone. She knew exactly what this was — just another guy with too much time and not enough real ambition.

Yujin, picking up on it, rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly. “Okay, okay, maybe that’s pushing it.” He paused, then took a breath. “But hey, can I at least get your number? I mean, after all... we were kind of bonding over the whole ‘room 305’ thing or we can play again.”

Wonyoung narrowed her eyes playfully. “After all the trash-talking you did in the game?”

Yujin winced, holding his hands up in mock surrender. “I know, I know. I’m really sorry about that. I’ll make it up to you. How about I treat you to coffee or something?”

Wonyoung crossed her arms, amused but still unimpressed. “So let me get this straight — you trash-talk me, then ask for my number, and now you’re trying to set up a date?”

Yujin grinned, the confidence creeping back into his voice. “I wouldn’t call it a date... unless you want to.”

Before Wonyoung could reply, the bus she had been waiting for pulled up to the curb. Yujin’s grin faltered as she glanced toward the bus, realizing she was about to leave. Panic bubbled up inside him.

“Wait — uh, where can I see you again?” he blurted, his usual smoothness completely falling apart. 

Wonyoung looked at him, a slight smile tugging at her lips. “You’re really pushing your luck, aren’t you?”

Yujin swallowed, then flashed her a crooked smile. “I believe a guy misses all the shots he doesn’t take.”

For a moment, Wonyoung just stared at him, that teasing look still in her eyes, but then she shook her head softly, stepping toward the bus door. “I forgive you for the trash-talking,” she said lightly, “but you don’t need to make it up to me. I’m not interested.”

Yujin opened his mouth to say something, but the bus doors were already closing. Wonyoung gave him one last glance through the window, her expression calm but unreadable. And then, just like that, the bus pulled away, leaving Yujin standing there, dejected yet strangely exhilarated.

He stood there for a few moments, watching the bus until it disappeared from view. A smirk crept across his face. Not interested, huh?

As the bus pulls away, Yujin stands rooted to the spot, watching the red tail lights disappear into the distance. His heart is thudding wildly in his chest, a mix of embarrassment and excitement. He feels the heat rising to his face — partly from the humiliation of being rejected, but mostly because he can't shake the image of Wonyoung from his mind. The cool evening breeze barely registers; his thoughts are buzzing, filled with everything he’s just learned about her — Wonyoung, a law student, serious, beautiful, and she used to live in the Bamboo dorm too... 

Yujin runs a hand through his messy hair, letting out a breath he didn’t realize he was holding. The way she had brushed him off, smiling so casually yet so firmly, left him dazed. But far from feeling discouraged, something inside him clicks into place — this wasn’t over. If anything, her refusal only made him more determined. 

He’s so lost in his thoughts that he doesn’t notice Seulwoo jogging up behind him until his friend speaks. “Yujin-ah, what happened?”

Yujin blinks, still staring in the direction of the bus, then turns slowly to face Seulwoo. His lips tug into a crooked smile, and with an exaggerated sigh, he says, “Hyung... I think I’m in love.” 

Chapter Text

It was a typical evening, the kind where the cool breeze swept through the streets, making it perfect for a casual hangout. Yujin and Seulwoo sat on the steps outside a convenience store, each holding a steaming cup of noodles. 

Yujin, swirling his chopsticks through the noodles, glanced at Seulwoo, the question that had been nagging at him for days bubbling to the surface. “Hyung, what do you know about Wonyoung?” 

Seulwoo, mid-bite, paused for a moment, raising an eyebrow before slurping the rest of his noodles. “Wonyoung? Not much, honestly. We’re not really close. But...” He set his cup down beside him and leaned back, stretching out his legs. “She’s known in the dorm for being a no-nonsense type. Always serious, always busy. Too focused on studying and working to have much of a social life.” 

Yujin listened intently, his chopsticks resting idly in his hand. The image of Wonyoung’s composed face at the bus stop flashed in his mind — the way she had spoken so confidently, as if nothing could shake her. 

Seulwoo continued, “That’s actually why she left the dorm, you know. She couldn’t handle all the noise from us partying every night.” He laughed lightly, shaking his head. “I mean, we weren’t that loud, but yeah, she didn’t have time for that kind of stuff. I think she moved out the moment she found a quieter place.” 

Yujin nodded slowly, taking in every word. It made sense. Wonyoung was laser-focused on her goals, and that kind of lifestyle didn’t mesh well with dorm life, especially with Seulwoo and the others throwing parties at random hours. 

Seulwoo shot Yujin a knowing look, smirking slightly. “Honestly, no matter what you do, she’s probably gonna reject you, man. She’s too serious about her life to make room for... well, you.”

Yujin laughed, though it didn’t reach his eyes. “Yeah, I figured.”

“I’m not trying to discourage you, bro,” Seulwoo added with a teasing grin, “but Wonyoung? She’s like... future-old-woman-in-training. The kind who’ll have everything planned out for the next twenty years, no distractions allowed.” 

Seulwoo’s words were half in jest, but there was a thread of truth woven in. Yujin gazed down into his cup of noodles, his mind drifting as Seulwoo's voice faded into the background. He didn’t know Wonyoung well — he barely knew her at all — but he felt like there was more to her than what everyone saw on the surface. Sure, she was serious. Focused. But wasn’t that just a reflection of someone who knew what they wanted out of life? How could he blame her for that? In fact, that made him even more respect her. 

She’s not just some girl who’ll grow into an old woman with no life, Yujin thought to himself, feeling a small spark of determination. There’s gotta be more beneath the surface. And I want to find out what that is. 

The rest of the evening passed by uneventfully, with Seulwoo moving on to lighter topics. But Yujin’s thoughts stayed on Wonyoung. That brief interaction had planted a seed in his mind, one that refused to leave him alone. He wanted to see her again, to talk to her — not just to apologize for the trashtalking, but to really get to know her. 

For the next few days, Yujin found himself heading to the gamer café after his classes. Every single day, he walked through the doors, hoping — half-expecting, to see her sitting at one of the stations, absorbed in a game or focused on her studies. But every day, his hopes were met with disappointment. The café was filled with the usual crowd of gamers, but no sign of Wonyoung. 

He didn’t even know where she studied. She had mentioned pre-law, but not which university. The uncertainty gnawed at him, but Yujin couldn’t bring himself to give up. Something told him she’d be back at the café eventually or that he will see her somewhere, he can feel it. And when she appears, he’d be ready. 

And so, every day, he kept coming back to that café. Waiting. Wondering. Hoping. 

***

Wonyoung sat at her desk, organizing files and reviewing documents as part of her daily tasks. It had been a steady few months at the law firm since she'd started her internship under An Ji-Young, a corporate lawyer whom she admired deeply. The work wasn't glamorous, but it was important, and she appreciated the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the legal world. Plus, the pay was decent, and it fit neatly into her packed schedule. 

As she settled into her routine, a sudden burst of loud voices echoed from Ji-Young's office. Wonyoung paused, glancing up from the stack of legal briefs she had been preparing. The sound of the door closing abruptly made the entire room tense for a second. She exchanged a look with one of her colleagues, Hanni, sitting nearby, who gave her a knowing smile. 

"What's going on?" Wonyoung whispered. 

Hanni rolled her eyes slightly. "That’s boss’ son again," she replied, barely keeping her voice low. "He’s probably in trouble." 

"Again?" Wonyoung frowned, taken aback. She had never seen Mrs. An’s son, but she could picture a rebellious young man from the few snippets of gossip she'd overheard. 

"Yeah, he’s cute, but… lazy," Hanni added, leaning in conspiratorially. "Always in trouble, skipping classes, not doing well in school, that sort of thing. It drives Mrs. An crazy." 

Wonyoung raised an eyebrow. She couldn't imagine Ji-Young, who was always so composed and professional, being worn down by anything — let alone by her own son. Ji-Young had been nothing but impressive to Wonyoung, a paragon of success and discipline, the exact person Wonyoung hoped to become one day. She felt a twinge of sympathy for her boss, picturing her having to deal with a difficult child on top of managing her demanding career. 

A shout came from the room again, the voice unmistakably Ji-Young’s, her words muffled by the walls. Wonyoung sighed softly and refocused on her work, but her mind wandered, wondering what kind of son could bring this much frustration to someone like Ji-Young. 

Out of the corner of her eye, she saw another colleague stifle a chuckle and mutter, "Poor kid’s probably getting it bad this time." 

"Does this happen a lot?" Wonyoung asked quietly. 

"More than you’d think," came the reply. "He's got a bit of a reputation — rebellious, doesn’t seem to care much about his studies. But, hey, that's privilege kids for you, right?" 

Wonyoung nodded absentmindedly, her mind half on the conversation and half on the files in front of her. She didn’t have time for distractions — not now, not ever, really. But as the shouting continued, she couldn't help but wonder more about this unseen son and why, despite everything, he kept making life difficult for his mother. 

The office door swung open with a sharp thud, startling everyone in the room. Wonyoung quickly dropped her gaze to the documents in front of her, as did her colleagues, pretending to be absorbed in their tasks. The air was thick with tension, but no one wanted to be caught snooping on the family drama unfolding just a few feet away.

Ji-Young's voice echoed through the office, sharp and frustrated. "You always get what you want, and this is what you do? How could you fail a subject?!" Her tone was biting, filled with a mix of anger and disappointment. 

Wonyoung tried to focus on the legal briefs she was organizing, but her ears picked up every word. From the corner of her eye, she saw a figure emerge — her boss’s son, wearing a black hoodie and a backpack slung carelessly over one shoulder. He was tall and with an air of casual rebellion, the exact kind of guy Wonyoung imagined would drive Ji-Young up the wall. He was shielding himself with his arms as his mother swung at him with… a bouquet of flowers? 

"Mom! Stop!" the guy protested, dodging the blows while trying to keep his voice low, clearly embarrassed. "I told you, Financial Accounting is hard!" 

Wonyoung blinked in surprise, resisting the urge to look up fully. The scene was both ridiculous and strangely amusing — a high-powered corporate lawyer hitting her son with flowers. The other co-workers were also struggling to keep a straight face.

"That’s why you have a dorm!" Ji-Young shouted, her frustration mounting. "I bought you a bike! You have a credit card! Everything! All you have to do is study!" 

The guy, still shielding himself from the flower attack, mumbled, "I’m trying, okay?" 

Wonyoung fought the urge to smile at the absurdity of the situation. But beneath the humor, she could feel the weight of the disappointment Ji-Young carried, the kind of pressure that came from years of striving for success and expecting the same from those around her — especially her own son. 

Ji-Young’s scolding voice grew louder as her son continued backing away, trying to escape her fury. In his haste, he nearly stumbled into the desks where Wonyoung and her co-workers sat. Wonyoung kept her head down, fully engrossed in her documents, when a familiar presence tugged at her attention. 

She glanced up, and her breath caught in her throat. It was him. Yujin, the guy from the gamer café. The one who had trashtalked her online, only to be stunned into an awkward, fumbling mess when they met face to face. She blinked, staring at him in disbelief. Yujin? He’s Ji-Young’s son? The same guy her boss had been complaining about for months, the one she said was immature and couldn’t take anything seriously? 

Wonyoung couldn’t wrap her mind around it. She looked him over again, confirming it was definitely him — the black hoodie, the same slightly rebellious yet boyish look. Yujin, who had the nerve to ask for her number after trash-talking her. Now, here he was, caught under his mother’s wrath. 

"I’m cutting off your credit card!" Ji-Young snapped, her voice dripping with finality. "And you won’t get it back until next semester, assuming you don’t have any failing grades." 

Yujin’s face twisted, clearly uncomfortable. He opened his mouth, then hesitated, before admitting quietly, "Uh... Mom, there’s something else." 

Ji-Young froze, her eyes narrowing dangerously. "What. Else." 

Yujin gulped, scratching the back of his neck nervously. "I... I also failed Statistics for Business." 

There was a collective intake of breath from the office staff. Ji-Young’s face went from angry to pure shock, her mouth hanging open in disbelief. "You... what?" she hissed. 

Yujin winced, trying to brace himself as his mother’s hand reached for the nearest object — a vase. Her grip tightened on it as she raised it threateningly. "Mom!" Yujin exclaimed, stepping back in a panic. "That’s expensive! And dangerous!" 

He frantically scanned the room for support, his eyes darting around — until they landed on Wonyoung. His expression shifted from panic to confusion as recognition dawned on his face. "Wonyoung?" he blurted out, eyes wide. "What are you doing here?" 

Wonyoung stared at him, her own surprise mirroring his. Her mind raced. Of all places — of all people — Yujin, the boy who had asked for her number in such a cocky way, was this Yujin. The son of her strict boss. She blinked, not sure whether to laugh or groan. 

Ji-Young’s hand lowered the vase slightly as she turned to look at Wonyoung, suspicion and curiosity mingling in her eyes. Yujin, still trying to recover from the shock, gave a small, awkward smile. "You... work here?" he asked, his voice cracking a bit in disbelief. 

Wonyoung kept her expression neutral, barely nodding as she said, "Yes. I do." The irony of the situation was almost too much for her to handle, but she had to stay composed — especially with Ji-Young watching so closely. 

Ji-Young stood with a vase in one hand and the battered bouquet of flowers in the other, her eyes narrowing as she looked between Wonyoung and Yujin. The bouquet she had used to hit Yujin now looked pitiful, petals scattered on the floor. Her voice was sharp as she asked, "You two know each other?" 

Before Wonyoung could respond, Yujin jumped in, a mischievous grin spreading across his face. "Yeah, we do! Wonyoung is my future girlfriend." 

Both Ji-Young and Wonyoung said, "What?!" at the same time, the shock mirrored in their voices. Ji-Young looked flabbergasted, and Wonyoung immediately shook her head, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment. The co-workers, who were already intrigued by the scene, leaned in closer, their interest piqued. 

Wonyoung quickly corrected the misunderstanding. "That's not true. We don’t know each other like that. We just played one game, and that’s it." She shot Yujin a sharp look, clearly annoyed by his bold claim. 

But Yujin, completely unfazed, turned to Wonyoung with wide eyes, as if he hadn’t heard a word his mother had just said. "Wait… you've been here all this time? I’ve been waiting for you at the gamer café!" His tone was almost accusatory, like she’d been keeping a secret from him. 

Ji-Young, whose patience was wearing dangerously thin, snapped her head toward Yujin. "Is that why you’re failing? Because you’re wasting your time at the gamer café?" Her voice boomed through the office, and before Yujin could even react, she threw the wilted bouquet straight at his face. Petals exploded around him as he blinked in surprise, rubbing the flowers from his eyes. 

Yujin quickly tried to defend himself, his hands raised in a surrendering gesture. "Mom, I need to relax sometimes! It’s not like I’m there all day — " 

“But you're not studying!" Ji-Young’s voice cut through his excuses. "That’s why you’re failing! You’re lazy, you’re wasting your life. You’re —" she paused, searching for the right word, "—dumb!" 

Yujin’s face twisted into a pout, rubbing his forehead where the bouquet hit him. "Ouch, that’s harsh. I prefer being called a brat, which is what you said earlier."

Ji-Young's eyes widened, and she raised the vase threateningly again. "You little—!" 

"Okay, okay! I’m going! Love you Mom!" Yujin shouted, throwing his hands up in surrender, backing away quickly. Without waiting for another round of scolding or objects being hurled at him, he turned and darted toward the exit, leaving behind a trail of confused co-workers and a very flustered Wonyoung. 

Ji-Young, still fuming, shouted after him, "You better fix your grades, or I will tell your father!" Then, she muttered under her breath, "This stupid kid."

Wonyoung stood frozen, unsure of what to do next, her mind spinning. She couldn’t believe Yujin had just run out like that, nor could she process the fact that he had been waiting for her. It was all too much, and now she was stuck in this mess, watching her boss sigh in frustration. 

“Wonyoung, follow me.” Ji-Young said. Wonyoung’s heart raced as Ji-Young asked her to follow her into the office. The scene with Yujin had already thrown her off, and now she felt a knot of anxiety twisting tighter in her stomach and she couldn’t help but think that Yujin’s reckless words had gotten her into trouble. Why did he have to be so annoying? Wonyoung thought. We don’t even know each other, and I told him I wasn’t interested!

The door clicked shut behind her as she stepped into Ji-Young’s office, her nerves stretched thin. She braced herself, expecting some form of reprimand. Ji-Young, who was standing by her desk, turned to Wonyoung with a sigh and waved her hand, her voice much calmer than Wonyoung anticipated. 

“Sorry you had to witness that,” Ji-Young said, shaking her head in exasperation. “He’s impossible sometimes.” 

Wonyoung stood there, uncertain of what to say. She’d been prepared for a scolding, but now she was even more confused. She glanced at Ji-Young’s desk and noticed a half-eaten strawberry cake and the crumpled flowers resting beside it. Ji-Young followed her gaze and gestured to the cake with frustration. 

“Can you believe it?” Ji-Young said, her voice dripping with sarcasm. “Yujin visited me today, brought me these flowers and cake… only to soften the blow that he failed two subjects.” 

Wonyoung blinked, still speechless. What was she supposed to say to that? She didn’t trust herself to speak without blurting out something awkward, so she just stood there quietly. 

Ji-Young looked at her thoughtfully for a moment before asking, “So, do you really know my son?” 

Wonyoung felt her face heat up slightly. She wasn’t about to mention all the details, but she gave a brief nod. “We played against each other in the gamer café one time. He trashtalked me, apologized, and then… asked for my number.” She tried to keep her tone neutral, downplaying the incident as much as possible. 

Ji-Young raised an eyebrow but nodded in understanding. “Ah, I see.”

Wonyoung, feeling the need to clarify, quickly added, “But I didn’t give him my number.” Her voice came out sharper than intended, but she needed to make sure Ji-Young understood that she was professional and wasn’t planning on getting mixed up with her troublesome son. 

Ji-Young gave a small, amused smile. “It’s fine, Wonyoung. You don’t need to worry.” She then leaned back against her desk, crossing her arms as she spoke more candidly. “Honestly, maybe a girlfriend is what Yujin needs to finally take his life seriously.” 

Wonyoung’s face flushed a deep pink at the suggestion. She hadn’t expected that. Her mind scrambled for a response, but nothing came out, leaving her more flustered than before. 

Ji-Young, noticing Wonyoung’s discomfort, chuckled softly. “Relax. Work and personal lives are different, so whatever happens outside this office is none of my business. You have nothing to worry about, okay?” 

The weight of anxiety that had been pressing on Wonyoung’s chest started to lift. She nodded, managing to give a small smile of relief. “Thank you,” she said quietly, grateful for the reassurance. 

Ji-Young waved her hand dismissively. “No need to thank me. Now, back to work.” 

Wonyoung gave a polite bow and quickly exited the office, her heart still pounding but now for different reasons. She leaned against the hallway wall for a moment, trying to shake off the lingering embarrassment. A girlfriend? The thought of her being tied to someone like Yujin was ridiculous… wasn’t it? She couldn’t get over the fact that he had been looking for her, and now their worlds had collided in the most unexpected and funny way. 

What a mess, she thought, as she headed back to her desk to focus on work, though her mind kept drifting back to Yujin's audacity — and Ji-Young’s unexpected approval. 

Chapter Text

Yujin was deep in sleep, the kind of blissful unconsciousness that only comes from a heavy weekend spent trying to avoid reality. He had come home to his parents' house for the weekend, hoping for some peace, but that peace was short-lived. As he lay sprawled across his bed, his blanket half off the bed and his mouth slightly open, he felt an abrupt shake. He groaned, trying to brush it off, but the shaking grew more insistent. 

"Wake up!" a sharp voice cut through his haze. 

Yujin squinted, his eyes barely opening to see his mother standing over him with her usual no-nonsense expression. Her hands were firmly on her hips, and she looked far too awake for his liking. 

"Look at you," Ji-Young said, exasperation lacing her tone. "It’s almost one in the afternoon, and you’re still sleeping like a sloth." 

Yujin groaned again, rolling over and pulling the blanket over his head. "Lying down and sleeping is heaven," he mumbled into the pillow, hoping she’d give up and leave him alone. 

No such luck. The next thing he knew, a pillow slammed into his face with surprising force, startling him awake. 

“Ow!” he cried, finally sitting up, his hair tousled and his eyes still half-closed. “What was that for?” 

Ji-Young glared at him, waving the pillow threateningly. “You’re going to waste the entire day if I don’t wake you up. Heaven, my foot, you’ll be in hell if you won’t get up now,” she muttered. “You're not on vacation. You’re failing subjects, and all you want to do is sleep?” 

Yujin rubbed his face and flopped back onto his bed. “It’s the weekend, Mom… can’t I just rest for one day?” 

Ji-Young huffed in response. “Rest? You’ve been doing nothing but ‘resting’ your entire life! Get up. Lunch is ready. And we need to talk about your grades.” She pointed at him with the pillow, eyes narrowing. "I'm not letting you sleep your way through another semester." 

Yujin groaned internally but knew better than to argue. His mother was relentless, and he could tell by her tone that today was not the day to test her patience. With a sigh, he slowly dragged himself out of bed, already dreading the conversation that awaited him. 

***

Yujin came down the stairs, rubbing his eyes and stretching, his bed hair still a mess but his mood unusually bright. "Good morning!" he said cheerfully, almost bouncing as he caught the smell of his favorite meal wafting through the air. "The food smells amazing, Mom!" He flashed a wide grin, hoping his upbeat tone might smooth over the tension that had been brewing for days. 

At the dining table, his mother, Ji-Young, was setting down a pot of Korean beef stew, surrounded by a variety of side dishes. She offered him a small, weary smile, but Yujin could sense the worry beneath it. His father, An Woo-bin, was already seated and when he saw him, his father immediately frowned.

 As Yujin sat down, he grabbed his spoon eagerly, ready to dig into the meal. But before he could even take a bite, his father’s stern voice broke the brief silence. “Your credit card is cut off at the moment,” Woo-bin said, not looking up from his phone. 

Yujin froze, chopsticks hovering over his bowl. He blinked, trying to process the sudden blow. "What?" he stammered. 

His father finally lifted his gaze, fixing Yujin with a sharp look. “You heard me. You’ll need to get a part-time job if you want an allowance. And your motorbike will be confiscated until you start taking your studies seriously.” Woo-bin’s tone was clipped, no room for negotiation. 

Yujin opened his mouth, ready to protest, but quickly shut it again. His father wasn’t the type to argue with. He could feel his mother's quiet eyes on him, silently pleading for him to keep his cool. His father had hit him before when he got too defiant, and Yujin knew better than to push his luck right now. His heart sank, and he picked at the rice in his bowl, trying to suppress the frustration building inside. He had been expecting something like this after his recent failures, but hearing it still stung. The credit card, the motorbike — those were his freedoms, and now they were being stripped away. 

Woo-bin returned to his plate, signaling the conversation was over. Yujin’s chest tightened, but he stayed quiet, his appetite fading as the weight of the situation settled over him. He felt trapped. He knew his father wanted him to follow the same business-minded path, but he has never been that person. The expectations crushed him, suffocating any spark of individuality he had left. But for now, he bit his tongue, knowing any sign of rebellion would only make things worse. 

He glanced over at his mother, who was silently spooning some beef stew into his bowl. "Eat up," she said gently, though her voice sounded tired. Yujin nodded, forcing a small smile for her sake, but inside, the resentment simmered. His mind was already spinning, trying to figure out his next move. 

***

One morning, Wonyoung found herself awake earlier than usual, eager to start her day. The sun was barely up, and she decided it was the perfect time for a quiet coffee break before diving into her studies. There was a newly opened café she had passed the day before — Café Soohwa — and she thought she’d give it a try. The air was crisp, and the soft glow from the cafe’s windows was inviting as she approached. 

Pushing open the door, the light jingle of a bell echoed softly above her, and the scent of fresh coffee filled the air. Wonyoung’s eyes wandered briefly over the cozy, warm interior before landing on the figure behind the counter. She blinked in surprise. Standing there, looking equally stunned, was Yujin. 

Yujin, who had been about to greet her with a cheerful, “Welcome to Café Soohwa,” cut himself off mid-sentence. His eyes widened slightly, and then a slow, mischievous smile spread across his face. “Good morning, Wonyoung,” he said, leaning casually on the counter, his dimples deepening as he spoke. “What can I do for you?” 

Wonyoung’s brow furrowed for a moment, caught off guard. She hadn’t expected to see him here of all places. “You… work here?” she asked, her tone a mix of surprise and curiosity. Yujin nodded, a playful glint in his eye. 

“Yup. Gotta work now so I can eat,” he said with a light chuckle. “First day on the job.” 

Her mind wandered briefly, piecing it together — this had to be his parents’ doing. She remembered overhearing his mother’s scolding at the law firm. “Congratulations on your first day,” she said with a faint smile, her tone a bit more formal than she intended. 

Yujin flashed her a warm, grateful smile. “Thanks. So, what’ll it be today?” 

For a moment, Wonyoung simply stared at him. The Yujin standing in front of her now, in a crisp white shirt with a neat black vest, looked so different from the rebellious gamer in a hoodie she had seen before. His appearance was… refined. Almost too decent for the guy who had trashtalked her weeks ago. But there was no denying he was cute, especially with those deep dimples. She hadn’t noticed them so clearly before. They gave his smile a boyish charm that momentarily caught her off guard. 

“Wonyoung?” Yujin’s voice broke through her thoughts, his brows lifting slightly as he leaned forward. “Are you okay?” 

Realizing she had been staring at him, Wonyoung felt her cheeks warm. She quickly averted her eyes, embarrassed. “Sorry, I’ll have one iced americano,” she said hurriedly, trying to regain her composure. She fumbled through her bag to pay, avoiding his gaze. 

Yujin rang her up with an amused smile, and she took a seat in the far corner of the café, feeling her heartbeat settle. As she sat waiting for her order, she couldn’t help but glance back toward the counter, wondering how the boy she’d brushed off so easily had somehow managed to be around her once again. 

The café was quiet, a rare and peaceful moment Wonyoung found herself enjoying. She had her notes spread out on the table, highlighting passages and reviewing concepts. The soft hum of background music played through the speakers, creating the perfect environment for concentration. 

A few minutes later, Yujin approached with her iced americano in hand. He placed the cup in front of her with a casual smile, but Wonyoung quickly noticed something unusual — a small, brightly colored sticky note was stuck to the side of her cup. 

Curious, she leaned closer and read the note: "If beauty were a crime..." 

Wonyoung frowned slightly at the incomplete sentence, but as she turned the cup around, she saw another sticky note stuck to the back that finished the thought: "...you’d have a life sentence without parole." 

She let out a soft chuckle, caught off guard by the cheesy but charming pick-up line. Rolling her eyes, she glanced over at Yujin, who was already heading back to the counter, looking completely at ease as if he hadn’t just dropped a flirtatious bomb in the middle of her study session. 

Shaking her head, Wonyoung returned to her notes, sipping her iced americano. A few minutes later, just as she was getting into her reading, Yujin reappeared at her table, this time holding a small plate. He set down a ham and cheese croissant in front of her.

Wonyoung blinked, looking up at him. “I didn’t order this,” she said, confused. 

Yujin flashed a playful grin. “It’s on the house. Special treat because it’s my first day.” He added a quick wink, his dimples making another appearance as he waited for her reaction. 

Wonyoung, though a bit shy, couldn’t help but smile at the gesture. The croissant did smell amazing, and she wasn’t one to turn down free food. “Thank you.” 

Yujin nodded, satisfied, before turning and heading back to his station. As Wonyoung took a bite of the croissant, the crisp outer layer giving way to the soft, cheesy center, she couldn’t help but feel a little more comfortable around Yujin. His charm is getting a little bit hard to ignore.

***

Wonyoung was focused on her notes, reading intently when she suddenly took a sip of her coffee too quickly and choked. She coughed loudly, her face flushing as she struggled to clear her throat. Before she could fully regain her composure, Yujin was already by her side, bottle of water in hand, unscrewing the cap with a quick flick of his wrist.

“Are you okay? Do I need to call 112?” he asked, his face full of genuine concern.

Wonyoung waved him off, trying to suppress a laugh despite her discomfort. His overreaction was both endearing and slightly ridiculous, and she managed to say between coughs, “I’m fine, I’m fine.” 

“Really?”

“Yes… I just choked a bit.”

Yujin, still watching her intently, nodded but stayed nearby just in case. As Wonyoung settled back down, she noticed Yujin stealing glances at her whenever he wasn’t busy with other customers. It was subtle, but she caught it every time.

As she finished her coffee and the delicious free croissant, she packed up her notes, ready to head to her class. Slinging her bag over her shoulder, she headed toward the door. But just as she was about to step outside, Yujin appeared out of nowhere, blocking her exit with a takeout bag in his hand. 

“Wait,” he said with a bright smile. “Here, another perk of my first day. I packed you a lunch.”

Wonyoung blinked, caught completely off guard by the gesture. She stared at the bag for a moment, then met Yujin’s eyes. There was something about his genuine effort, his kindness, that threw her off balance. She accepted the bag with a small smile, feeling warmth creep into her chest. 

“Thank you,” she said, her voice softer than she expected. 

Yujin gave her a nod, still smiling. “Anytime.” 

***

Wonyoung sat with her friends, Liz and Giselle, under the shade of the large campus tree. She opened the packed lunch Yujin had given her, revealing a sausage pasta dish. It smelled delicious, and though she wasn’t expecting much, the gesture made her smile a bit. As she started to eat, Liz glanced over curiously. 

“Where did you get that?” Liz asked, leaning in for a closer look. 

Giselle chimed in before Wonyoung could answer. “Oh, isn’t that from the new cafe? What’s it called… Soohwa?” 

Wonyoung nodded. “Yeah, Yujin works there now.” 

Both Liz and Giselle exchanged looks of surprise. Giselle raised an eyebrow. “Yujin? As in the guy from the gamer cafe?” 

“And Mrs. An’s son?” Liz added, her eyes wide. “You know, your boss’s son?” 

Wonyoung nodded again, casually taking another bite of her pasta. Giselle leaned in. “Well, at least you’ll be getting free coffee and lunch now, huh?” 

Wonyoung looked up, shaking her head. “Isn’t that bad, though? I’m not interested in him like that.” 

Liz shrugged. “It’s not like you’re asking for free stuff. He’s the one offering it. I mean, if it’s a problem, does Yujin ask for anything in return? Like your number?” 

Wonyoung shook her head. “No, nothing like that.” 

Giselle raised a playful eyebrow. “A nice guy who gives you free food and doesn’t ask for anything in return? That’s suspicious.” 

Wonyoung laughed lightly, her mind briefly flashing to Yujin’s warm smile and deep dimples. “His face is far from being suspicious.” 

Liz leaned in closer, intrigued. “Why? Does he look cute?” 

Wonyoung paused for a split second, her mind betraying her for just a moment as she remembered how Yujin looked in his cafe uniform, all cleaned up and charming. But she quickly recovered. “He’s... okay.” 

Giselle smirked, nudging Liz. “We need to see this Yujin.” 

Wonyoung groaned, shaking her head, but there was no escaping the teasing now. 

***

That Friday, after wrapping up their school week, Wonyoung, Giselle, and Liz found themselves standing outside Cafe Soohwa, peering through the window. Giselle leaned forward, trying to get a better look. 

“I can’t believe we’re actually doing this,” Wonyoung muttered as she walked with her friends, feeling both amused and nervous. 

Giselle smirked. “You said he’s working here, right? Might as well see if the food’s good. You liked the pasta, didn’t you?” 

Liz grinned. “Plus, we get to check out this mysterious Yujin.”

Giselle nodded, her eyes fixed on the cafe sign glowing softly in the evening light. “Come on, I’m starving. If he’s working, we might get good service. Let’s see if he’s as nice as you say.” 

Wonyoung hesitated for a second before stepping forward with them. “Fine. But no teasing him or making it awkward. He’s just… friendly.” 

The three of them entered Cafe Soohwa, a few customers were scattered around, chatting quietly or reading. 

Yujin was standing behind the counter, focused on preparing an order. As soon as the doorbell chimed and he looked up, his eyes widened in surprise. He quickly composed himself, putting on his usual friendly demeanor, but there was a slight spark of excitement in his eyes as he recognized Wonyoung. And this time, she wasn’t alone. 

“Welcome to Cafe Soohwa.” Yujin greeted cheerfully.

Wonyoung gave him a polite smile, but Giselle and Liz exchanged glances before turning their attention to Yujin. 

“This is Yujin?” Liz whispered to Wonyoung, trying to keep her voice low but failing. “You undersold him. He’s definitely cute.” 

Wonyoung nudged her friend in the ribs, her cheeks warming slightly. "Stop it." 

Yujin came out from behind the counter to hand over menus. He moved confidently, but there was a casual ease to him that Giselle and Liz noticed right away. “What can I get for you tonight?” Yujin asked, handing them the menus with a smile. 

Liz smirked, taking her time looking him up and down before opening the menu. "I think I’ll… um… the…"

Wonyoung shot her a warning look before glancing back at Yujin. “We’ll have a look at the menu, thanks.” 

As Yujin returned to the counter to give them space, Giselle leaned in and whispered, “Okay, he’s definitely better looking in person. And he’s not pushing anything on you?”

“No,” Wonyoung replied, keeping her voice low. “He’s just… being nice.” 

Liz’s eyes flicked over to Yujin, who was now chatting with a co-worker. “Well, if this is how he acts, I can see why you’ve been coming back here. Maybe we’ll have to make this place a regular spot. We will always get good service.” 

Wonyoung was trying to stay focused, but she couldn’t help glancing at Yujin again, her friends' teasing only amplifying her awareness of him. He had an effortless charm — friendly, but not overbearing. And when he caught her gaze for the briefest second, he smiled warmly, as if the two of them were sharing a private joke. 

Giselle waved her hand in front of Wonyoung’s face. “Hello? Earth to Wonyoung. You were staring again.” 

“I was not!” Wonyoung shot back, but her tone was more flustered than defensive while Liz laughed. 

A few moments later, Yujin approached again, this time ready to take their orders. “So, what’ll it be tonight?” 

Liz tapped her chin dramatically before giving her order, clearly enjoying the attention. “I’ll have the bulgogi sandwich.”

Giselle was next, and she grinned at Yujin. “I’ll go for the spicy chicken wrap.”

Yujin nodded and scribbled down their choices, then turned to Wonyoung. His expression softened, and he raised an eyebrow. “And you?” 

Wonyoung pretended to study the menu, even though she’d already decided. “Cream pasta. And peppermint tea.”

“You really like pasta, huh?” Yujin noted before turning.

“He’s definitely paying attention to you.” Giselle said.

“He didn’t even comment on our orders.” Liz added.

As they waited for their food, the girls chatted casually, but Wonyoung couldn’t help but feel Yujin’s presence. Every now and then, she noticed him glance their way, especially toward her. It wasn’t intrusive, just subtle, as if he was genuinely checking if they were having a good time. 

***

As Wonyoung sat with her friends, Giselle and Liz, enjoying their meal, Yujin appeared at their table, carrying a freshly baked pizza and a plate of cookies. “This is on the house,” he said with a smile, setting the dishes down. Both Giselle and Liz lit up with excitement, grateful for the unexpected treat.

"Wow, thank you so much!" Giselle said, her eyes wide at the sight of the food. 

Liz added, "You're spoiling us." 

Wonyoung felt a tinge of awkwardness but smiled politely. Yujin gave her a warm smile, his dimples showing as he nodded before returning to the counter. 

As the evening wore on, Giselle and Liz finished their food, said their goodbyes to Wonyoung, and headed home for the weekend. "Don’t stay too late with your notes!" Giselle teased as they left. 

Wonyoung chuckled and waved them off. "Don’t worry, I’ll head out soon." 

Left alone, Wonyoung tried to focus on her notes, but she kept glancing up, noticing Yujin’s attentiveness. Each time her water glass was empty, he was there to refill it without a word, offering her a subtle smile before moving away. She couldn’t help but feel his eyes on her when he wasn’t busy, it was as if he was quite the presence she had started to get used to. 

Soon, the cafe grew quieter as the night deepened, and Wonyoung realized she was the only customer left. It started to rain, and she wished she left earlier as she didn’t have an umbrella. As she packed up her things and the staff began to close up, Yujin approached her, wiping his hands on a towel. 

“Hey, it’s getting pretty late and it started to rain,” he said softly, looking out at the darkened street. “Can I walk you home?” 

Wonyoung looked at him, a little taken aback by his concern. “It’s fine. My place is nearby, I left my umbrella so I have to run fast to the bus stop,” she reassured him, tucking her notes into her bag. 

Yujin hesitated, then nodded. “Alright. Just… wanted to make sure you’re safe,” he said, his voice softening as he looked down. Realizing Wonyoung wasn’t open to him walking her home, he quickly added, “Sorry, I didn’t mean to overstep.” 

As they stepped outside, the cool night air greeted them, and Wonyoung glanced around, adjusting her bag on her shoulder. Yujin suddenly handed her a small folded piece of paper. 

“What’s this?” she asked, unfolding it to see a phone number scrawled across it in Yujin’s handwriting. 

“Just in case,” he said with a playful grin. “You know, if you ever want to text in your order ahead of time. Premium service. Or free delivery.” He winked.

Before Wonyoung could respond, Yujin handed her an umbrella. The sound of raindrops tapping on the pavement, and Yujin, with his hoodie already pulled over his head, grinned as he stepped into the rain. 

“Take care, Wonyoung,” he said, giving her one last look before he started running off into the downpour, his hoodie doing very little to keep him dry. 

“Yujin!” Wonyoung called after him, but he didn’t stop or turn around, his figure disappearing into the rainy night. She stood there for a moment, clutching the umbrella in her hand, feeling the warmth of the gesture as it settled in her chest. 

Watching him run off into the rain, Wonyoung felt something stir — an unexpected sense of gratitude for his thoughtfulness, despite her earlier reluctance. It was a small moment, but as she walked, Wonyoung couldn’t help but feel that Yujin’s simple gestures were starting to leave a deeper impression than she’d expected. She looked at the umbrella and the piece of paper with his number, smiling softly to herself before turning to head home. 

Chapter Text

It was the annual anniversary brunch at the law firm, and Wonyoung had been busy chatting with her co-workers, Hanni and the others. After a while, needing a break from the constant chatter, she stepped outside the entrance of the building. She casually looked around, expecting to see more guests arriving. But instead, her eyes landed on someone she didn’t expect — Yujin. 

He was leaning casually against the building, dressed in a sharp, tailored black suit with the jacket unbuttoned, revealing a clean white shirt underneath. He looked so effortlessly polished — formal yet relaxed in his usual way. Wonyoung’s breath caught in her throat. It wasn’t the Yujin she was used to — the hoodie-wearing, carefree guy from the café. This Yujin looked... different. Almost too different. And so attractive. 

Her heart skipped a beat. 

For some reason, Wonyoung found herself frozen, staring at him longer than she should have. Her pulse quickened, thudding unexpectedly loud in her chest. She had never thought of Yujin like this before, but seeing him now, standing there, looking effortlessly handsome and... confident, something stirred inside her that she couldn’t quite explain. 

Yujin caught her staring and smiled — that same easy, disarming smile that made her feel like the world around her slowed down for just a moment. 

"You look beautiful," Yujin said, his voice gentle but with an underlying intensity that made Wonyoung’s stomach flutter. 

Her heart thudded even louder now, and she wasn’t sure why. She was used to compliments, used to attention, but somehow, coming from Yujin, it felt different. The air felt heavier between them. She felt heat rising to her cheeks and tried to play it off with a shy smile, though she couldn’t completely hide the way her voice faltered. 

"Th-thank you," she managed, her breath catching again. "You… you look really good too." She didn’t know why she felt so flustered all of a sudden. 

Yujin, unaware of the impact he was having, beamed even brighter. "I mean it," he said, his eyes sparkling with the same childlike excitement he always had. "You’re always beautiful, but today… wow." 

Wonyoung, still trying to gather herself, gestured toward the building. "You should come inside. The brunch is about to start." 

Yujin stepped closer to her, and Wonyoung’s heart raced even faster. She suddenly became acutely aware of how close they were standing, of how he was looking at her in a way that felt both familiar and… different. There was a warmth in his gaze, a seriousness that made her feel oddly flustered. 

"Only because you asked," he replied, his voice low and playful, but something in his tone made her heart skip yet another beat. 

***

They walked inside, and after only a few moments, Ji-Young, Yujin’s mother, spotted him from across the room. Her eyes widened in slight surprise, the kind that made Yujin immediately understand she hadn’t expected him to show up — and more importantly, hadn’t wanted him to. His suit, though formal, seemed too casual for her taste. Yujin could almost hear her inner monologue criticizing his open jacket and the laid-back attitude he carried with him everywhere. 

"Yujin, it’s fine," Ji-Young said, stepping forward with a tight smile. "You can go home. This isn’t really—" 

Before she could finish, a group of her friends arrived, senior partners and executives, their eyes lighting up at the sight of Yujin. 

"Oh, Yujin! You’ve grown so tall!" one woman exclaimed, reaching out to pat his arm. "And so handsome! How are your studies going?" 

Yujin opened his mouth to answer, but Ji-Young quickly intervened with a laugh. "He’s doing very well, studying business, following in his father’s footsteps. He didn’t want to be a lawyer, but he’s showing real promise in his own way. We’re quite proud of him." His face remained neutral, though inside, he felt the words scraping against him. His mother had always done this — projected a version of him that didn’t exist. He wasn’t that committed to business school, and he certainly wasn’t good at it. Still, her friends seemed thoroughly impressed. 

"He's even exploring finishing his studies in the USA," Ji-Young added, causing her friends to murmur with awe. "We’re discussing options with some top universities there. It’s a lot to consider, but he’s ambitious." 

Yujin’s mind blanked at that. The USA? The furthest lie yet. He stood there, silent, as his mother’s friends showered him with praise, talking about his "grit" and "drive." They soon moved on, leaving Yujin and Ji-Young alone in the awkward tension of the moment. 

He turned to her, his voice low but tight with irritation. "The USA? Really?" 

Ji-Young didn’t miss a beat, glancing at him with cold authority. "It’s not a lie. If you don’t fix your grades, that’s where you’re going. You’ve been making this harder for all of us, Yujin." 

Yujin clenched his jaw, the weight of his mother's expectations pressing down on him. He couldn’t even fight back — what was the point? 

On the corner side of the room, Wonyoung observed the entire exchange, sipping her drink quietly. She felt a twinge of sympathy, watching Yujin stand there, clearly trapped between his mother’s perfectionist image and his own struggles. It made her curious — he wasn't just some carefree troublemaker after all. Beneath the surface, there was pressure, expectations, and a deep sense of dissatisfaction. 

But, in typical Wonyoung fashion, she tucked away her thoughts, deciding to keep her distance for now, silently wondering what it was really like for Yujin to live under that kind of shadow. 

***

Wonyoung was quietly nibbling on some snacks from the buffet table, lost in her thoughts, when Yujin suddenly appeared in front of her. She blinked, surprised, as he stood there with that same infectious smile she’d come to associate with his laid-back charm. 

"I know a place that serves tteokbokki way better than this,” he said, glancing down at the snack in her hand. “You wanna get out of here? This party’s boring and full of old people." 

Wonyoung looked around the room. He wasn’t wrong. The formal brunch had long since lost its appeal, with the conversations growing stale and the guests either too busy networking or fawning over Yujin’s mother. No one would notice if she slipped out. Her gaze returned to Yujin, who was still grinning at her, seemingly unaffected by the pressure and lies his mother had spun about him. But Wonyoung knew better. She’d overheard the tense conversation between him and his mother, seen the way his smile wavered under the weight of those expectations. 

Curiosity tugged at her, and for reasons she couldn’t quite explain, she wanted to make sure Yujin was okay. He had been nothing but kind to her, and despite his carefree front, she sensed something more beneath it. And maybe... maybe she just wanted to know more about the boy who seemed so different. 

With a small smile, she nodded. “Sure,” she said, slipping her bag over her shoulder. “Let’s go.” 

***

Yujin led Wonyoung down a quiet street until they reached a small tteokbokki stand nestled between other food stalls. The scent of spicy rice cakes filled the air, and Wonyoung’s stomach growled softly in anticipation. Yujin, always quick with his wallet, reached into his pocket to pay, but before he could say a word, Wonyoung stopped him.

“I’ll pay this time,” she said. “You’ve been treating me a lot lately, and I want to do something for you.” 

Yujin blinked, a little taken aback, but then his usual easygoing smile returned. "Oh okay, thank you,” he agreed, though part of him felt a little shy about it. He had a momentary urge to order more — maybe some extra kimbap or fishcakes — but the thought of her spending more money on him made him hesitate. Instead, he just ordered one serving of tteokbokki and a drink, keeping it simple. 

Wonyoung followed suit, ordering the same. Once they had their food in hand, Yujin led her to a nearby park, a small one with a quiet atmosphere as they found two swings and sat down. 

They ate in companionable silence at first, the swings gently swaying as they took bites of the spicy rice cakes. The faint crunch of gravel under their feet mixed with the distant hum of city life. Yujin kicked at the ground lightly, his legs long enough to push him back and forth without much effort. 

As they continued to sway gently on the swings, Wonyoung glanced over at Yujin and asked, "So, how are you doing? Really." 

Yujin, always quick on his feet, shot her a smooth smile. “I’m doing great. Especially now that you’re here with me.” 

Wonyoung rolled her eyes, suppressing a grin at his cheesy line. “Do you always flirt like this?” she asked, feigning exasperation. 

Yujin didn’t miss a beat. “Only with pretty girls.” 

Wonyoung raised an eyebrow, tilting her head. “So you’re a player then?” she teased, a smirk tugging at her lips. 

Yujin gasped dramatically, his pout exaggerated like a child. “I am not a player!” he insisted, puffing his cheeks out in mock indignation. 

“You sure look like one,” Wonyoung teased, leaning into the moment. 

Yujin's expression brightened as he flashed her a wide, playful grin. "Oh, so you think I’m handsome?" he teased right back, leaning slightly toward her with a mischievous glint in his eyes. 

Wonyoung huffed, shaking her head. “I didn’t say that.” 

“Well,” Yujin pouted cutely, “Players have to be good-looking to attract women, right? So...?” 

Wonyoung let out an exasperated breath, but there was a smile dancing on her lips. “Fine. Maybe you’re a little cute.” 

The instant the words left her mouth, Yujin’s face lit up like he’d just won the lottery. He threw both hands up in the air triumphantly. “Yes!” he exclaimed, a boyish grin spreading across his face. 

As Wonyoung finished laughing, her expression softened, and she looked at Yujin with a bit more seriousness. "You didn’t answer my question earlier," she said, her voice quieter now. "Are you really okay?" 

Yujin blinked, clearly not expecting that. "Why wouldn’t I be?" he asked, trying to brush it off casually. 

"Because of what happened with your grades a few weeks ago, at the office?" Wonyoung reminded him, her eyes narrowing slightly as she studied his face. "Everyone saw you getting reprimanded." 

Yujin chuckled at the memory. "Oh, that." He scratched the back of his head. "Yeah, that was… something. Honestly, not my proudest moment." 

Wonyoung hesitated for a second before admitting, “I didn’t mean to overhear, but I caught some of your conversation with your mom earlier today. About your studies and your future.” 

Yujin shrugged, the carefree look still on his face. "Oh, that. It’s not a big deal," he said, waving his hand dismissively. "Just your typical parents who want to control your life. You know, the usual." 

Wonyoung leaned forward a bit, her brow furrowing. "Is it really not a big deal? What do you want to do with your life, Yujin? I mean, if business or law isn’t your thing…" 

Yujin paused for a moment, glancing up at the stars before he looked back at her. He took a deep breath and then said, "Honestly? I want to do music." 

Wonyoung raised her eyebrows in surprise. "Music?" 

“Yeah.” Yujin’s expression softened, and for the first time, he wasn’t trying to joke or be flirty. "I want to be a producer someday. I’ve been into it for as long as I can remember. It’s the one thing that actually makes me feel like myself, you know?" 

Wonyoung watched him closely."Wow," she said, her eyes wide, "that’s so far from business and law. Like, completely different. Why don’t you pursue that then?" 

Yujin let out a small, almost resigned laugh. "Because it’s not 'practical' enough for my parents. They think it’s a waste of time. My dad’s a corporate, my mom’s a lawyer… so you can imagine how much they love the idea of me making beats in a studio somewhere. They made a deal with me — if I can get a 'worthy' degree, like in business or something, then I can do music on the side. It’s kind of their way of saying I need a backup plan, just in case I don’t make it in music." 

Wonyoung nodded, absorbing his words. "So that’s why you’re studying business?" 

"Yeah," Yujin sighed. "I picked business because I thought it’d be less painful than law. I didn’t want to spend years stuck in school. But honestly, I’m not good at studying. I suck at it, actually." He smiled awkwardly, rubbing the back of his neck. "I’m more of a 'hands-on' guy. I’m good with things that are kinetic, you know? Like gaming, sports, playing instruments." 

Wonyoung stayed quiet for a moment, processing what he said. She hadn’t expected this side of Yujin, and now that she saw it, she couldn’t help but feel… something. Sympathy, sure, but also a kind of respect. Her heart sank a little as she listened to him talk about himself with such self-deprecation. He was humbly admitting his weaknesses, something that wasn’t easy for most people. She looked at him with sympathy, noticing the way he seemed to genuinely accept that he wasn’t good at something, even if it weighed on him. 

"Your parents are probably just trying to make sure you have options. They’re looking out for you because they love you." 

Yujin gave a small nod, his usual playful energy muted for a moment. "Yeah, I know. I get that they care. I just… today’s been one of those days, you know?" 

Wonyoung tilted her head, curious now. "Why? What happened today?" 

Yujin laughed, "well, this morning, I got scammed." 

Wonyoung’s brows furrowed in concern. "Scammed? How?" 

He leaned back on the swing, looking up at the sky as he explained. "I bought a rare Pokémon Pikachu EX card online, it was supposed to be delivered today. The guy totally ghosted me, his account is gone." 

Wonyoung’s eyes widened, and she stared at him in disbelief. "Wait, how much did you pay for it?" 

Yujin shrugged, almost embarrassed. "Around 500,000 won." 

Her jaw dropped, and she blurted out, "What?! A trading card that costs that much? Are you serious?" 

Yujin laughed at her shocked reaction. "Yeah, it’s a rare card! Super hard to find." 

Wonyoung shook her head, still trying to wrap her mind around it. "500,000 won for a paper… I can’t believe it." She  huffed, half-amused, half-exasperated. "I don’t know if I should feel bad for you or scold you for spending that much on a card." 

Yujin just gave her a lopsided grin, clearly finding the whole thing amusing despite the loss. "You can do both." 

Wonyoung leaned forward, a serious look crossing her face. "You know, Yujin, you don’t have to just accept being scammed. There’s a law for this kind of thing. Article 347 of the Korean Criminal Act — fraud." 

"Fraud?" 

"Yes. It basically says that if someone deceives another person for financial gain, like in your case with the Pokémon card, it's considered fraud. You could report him, and he could face up to 10 years in prison or a 20 million won fine." 

Yujin’s eyes widened. "Whoa, really? That serious?"

Wonyoung nodded confidently. "Absolutely. If you can prove that the seller intentionally scammed you by taking your money without sending the card, you have a solid case. You should gather all your transaction records and messages as evidence." 

Yujin sat up straighter, clearly impressed. "Wow, okay, that sounds like a plan. Maybe this guy will think twice if he knows the law’s on my side. 

“Let me see the messages, I’ll help you deal with this scammer.” Yujin grinned as he handed her his phone. 

"Send it to me," Wonyoung added, typing quickly. Yujin’s smile widened, seeing an opportunity. She was going to give him her number. 

Wonyoung caught his expression and rolled her eyes, but there was a slight smile tugging at her lips. “Fine, I’ll send you a message later. Happy now?” She saved his number in her notes — just in case. She wasn’t about to admit it out loud, but something about Yujin made her feel... curious. 

“Okay, thanks for helping me,” Yujin said, still grinning.

“You know, your mother is a lawyer and runs her own firm. Maybe you should take advantage of that.” 

Yujin leaned back, shaking his head. “If she finds out I’m spending money on superficial things like trading cards, I’ll get scolded for sure.” 

“Superficial? I agree, trading cards do seem... a little ridiculous.” 

“What about you? Why did you decide to become a lawyer?” 

Wonyoung glanced away, her voice steady as she answered. “I want to help people. Fight for their rights, and uphold the law. That’s why I’m working so hard — studying non-stop and doing part-time jobs to save money for tuition. It’s expensive, but I’ve been lucky with scholarships.” 

Yujin nodded, genuinely impressed. “You’re awesome, Wonyoung. It sounds like you’ve got it all figured out.” 

“I’m finishing pre-law soon, and next year I’ll enroll in law school. Dreams do come true if you work for them.” She gave Yujin a sidelong glance. “And remember, I’m two years older than you, so you should be calling me ‘noona.’” 

Yujin’s face scrunched up in playful defiance. “No. I don’t want to.” 

Wonyoung laughed, half surprised. “Why not? You’re being disrespectful!” 

“I just... don’t want you to be my noona,” Yujin replied, crossing his arms stubbornly. 

“Fine. We can be friends, then. But you still have to call me noona.” 

Yujin shook his head, grinning mischievously. “Nope. Don’t want that either. I already have enough friends.” 

Wonyoung frowned, a little confused. “Okay, fine. It’s your loss if you don’t want to be friends.” 

Yujin chuckled softly, leaning back. “Maybe it is. But still...” 

She suddenly found herself unsure of what to say next. The air between them had shifted, and she wasn’t entirely sure if she wanted to know what Yujin really wanted to be in her life. So, she broke the silence. “We should head back.” 

“Okay,” Yujin replied softly, standing up and offering her his hand. 

For a second, Wonyoung hesitated, but then she reached out, feeling the warmth of his palm as she stood. “After you,” Yujin said with a cheeky grin as they began walking back to the law firm. 

Their conversation picked up again with light, easy banter. Wonyoung found herself chuckling more than she expected — Yujin had a knack for being effortlessly funny. He was... different. Interesting. And strangely sweet. 

When they finally arrived at the law firm, Yujin stopped just outside the door, glancing at the entrance with a look of hesitation. Wonyoung noticed and asked, “Aren’t you coming inside?” 

Yujin shook his head, smiling softly. “Nah, I’m sure my mom would prefer I don’t come back. It’s better this way.” 

Before she could respond, he leaned in slightly, his voice playful. “But, if it’s okay with you, maybe you can text me later? I could walk you back to the bus station, or home — wherever you like.” 

Wonyoung arched a brow. “Wait, so you don’t want to be friends, but you want to hangout with me?” 

“Yes,” he said with confidence. “I don’t want to be just friends. Because from now on, I’m your admirer. Your suitor. And maybe, someday, your lover.” 

Wonyoung’s breath caught in her throat, and her heart did an unexpected flip. Before she could react, Yujin continued, his voice softer, but still teasing. “I promise I’ll be respectful and kind to you. I won’t ever overstep. And it’s okay if you don’t like me back.” He smiled that boyish grin of his again, as though this confession was just the most natural thing in the world. “Have a nice day, Wonyoung.” 

And with that, he turned and walked away, leaving Wonyoung standing there, stunned, her mind spinning with everything he had just said. She watched his figure get smaller and smaller, trying to process the whirlwind of emotions flooding her all at once — curiosity, nervousness, and a heart that wouldn’t stop racing. 

For some reason, Yujin wasn’t so easy to ignore anymore. 

***

The brunch event had ended, and the law firm’s office was clearing out. Wonyoung stayed behind, helping to clean up, feeling the weight of Yujin’s confession still fresh on her mind. She wiped down the tables, her thoughts circling, unsure of how to bring up the subject with Ji-Young. But if she wanted to stay professional, she knew she had to address it. 

After tossing the last napkin into the trash, Wonyoung spotted Ji-Young gathering her things, preparing to leave. 

"Mrs. An," Wonyoung called out softly. Ji-Young turned around, raising an eyebrow with a curious smile. "Do you have a moment?" 

"Of course, Wonyoung," Ji-Young said, crossing her arms, looking like the sharp, no-nonsense lawyer she always was. "What’s on your mind?" 

Wonyoung hesitated, her fingers fiddling nervously with the edge of her skirt. "I… I wanted to talk to you about something that happened earlier today. With Yujin." 

Ji-Young’s expression shifted slightly, a knowing glint in her eyes. "Oh? What did he do this time?" 

Wonyoung blushed, clearly embarrassed. "Well… he, um, he confessed. He kinda said that… he wants to pursue me." 

Ji-Young chuckled softly, shaking her head. "That boy never misses a chance, does he?" 

Wonyoung immediately shook her head. "I-I don’t have any plans on dating him or anything like that!" she blurted out, blushing. "He’s not my type, really. I just wanted to make sure things stay professional between us, and I wasn’t sure if it might... complicate things with work." 

Ji-Young’s gaze softened, and she placed a reassuring hand on Wonyoung’s shoulder. "Wonyoung, I appreciate you being upfront about this. And I understand your concerns, but you don’t need to worry. Personal lives and work should always remain separate. Now, as Yujin’s mother, I have to admit, I like you. You’re smart, hardworking, and honestly, a good influence on him.”

"Oh, um, thank you?"

"However," Ji-Young continued, her tone growing more serious, "as your boss and mentor, I don’t think Yujin is right for you. He’s a troublemaker, and I know him better than anyone. He’s not serious about most things in life, and I want the best for you. You deserve someone who’s focused, driven... someone more on your level." 

Wonyoung nodded, grateful but also a little surprised by Ji-Young’s candidness. "I understand. And honestly, I’m not interested in him that way. I just didn’t want things to be awkward." 

Ji-Young smiled again, this time with a more gentle expression. "You don’t have to worry, Wonyoung. I trust you to handle this however you see fit, and if Yujin gives you any trouble, you know where to find me." 

Wonyoung smiled, feeling a sense of relief wash over her. "Thank you, Ms. An.”

Ji-Young patted her shoulder lightly. "You’re a bright young woman with a promising future. Don’t let Yujin distract you." Then, with a playful glint in her eye, she added, "But if you do ever change your mind... goodluck."

Wonyoung laughed softly, shaking her head. "I don’t think that’ll happen, but I’ll keep that in mind." 

Chapter Text

Yujin received a message from Seulwoo: "Yo, come up to the rooftop. We’re grilling and got some beers. Join us!" A grin crept onto Yujin's face as he grabbed his jacket and made his way up.

When he pushed open the door to the rooftop, the smell of grilled meat hit him first. Seulwoo was by the grill, flipping over some skewers, while two others sat on foldable chairs, laughing and chatting. Yujin’s eyes widened slightly when he recognized one of the voices — Giselle, Wonyoung’s friend, someone he’d only seen in passing at the café before.

Seulwoo waved him over, “Hey, man! Grab a beer and relax. Giselle’s here too, by the way. Small world, huh?”

Yujin nodded, a bit surprised but kept it cool. “Giselle, right?” he greeted her casually as he grabbed a beer from the cooler.

Giselle smiled, raising her can in a half-toast. “Yep. I didn’t expect to see you here either. Guess we both have Seulwoo to thank.”

Yujin chuckled, taking a sip of his beer as he sat down on a folding chair next to Seulwoo. “Yeah, didn’t know Seulwoo was friends with you.”

“Same! Small world,” Giselle said with a grin.

As the evening went on, the rooftop buzzed with casual conversation and light laughter. Yujin found himself easing into the company, but his mind kept drifting to Wonyoung, wondering if Giselle would mention her. He wasn’t going to bring it up himself, but he couldn’t help the curiosity bubbling under the surface. “So, how do you guys know each other?" He gestured between Seulwoo and Giselle, keeping the conversation light but secretly curious.

But as the evening wore on, Giselle mentioned Wonyoung, and Yujin’s focus shifted. He listened intently, maybe more than he should’ve. It was hard not to pay attention when the topic was Wonyoung — he wanted to hear anything, everything. He found himself leaning forward.

“Well, just so you know, Wonyoung doesn’t go there anymore. Her laptop broke, and she found the cafe too noisy to focus on her work. She’s been spending most of her time at the library these days, trying to save up to buy a second-hand laptop.” Giselle said.

Yujin’s casual facade faltered for a second, his brows knitting together with concern. “She’s been studying at the library? And her laptop’s still broken?”

“Yeah, she’s trying to save up for a replacement.”

***

Wonyoung made her way toward the Bamboo dorm, her phone buzzing with a message from Giselle inviting her to dinner with Seulwoo. She agreed, though she had a sneaking suspicion that Yujin would be there. She braced herself — she wasn’t nervous, she told herself. After all, she’d already made it clear to Yujin that they were just friends. She had nothing to worry about.

When she arrived, the atmosphere was relaxed. Yujin was there, as expected, but she stayed calm, exchanging casual greetings with everyone. For a while, the four of them hung out, talking and laughing over food. But then, almost too conveniently, Giselle and Seulwoo excused themselves, leaving Wonyoung and Yujin alone at the table. Suspicion flickered in Wonyoung’s mind, but she kept her face neutral, not wanting to overthink it.

Yujin, not missing a beat, asked her how her day had been. She mentioned casually that she had received a letter from one of the law schools she had applied to. It happened to be Hanseong University — his school. The news instantly lit up his face.

“Really? That’s awesome!” Yujin said, his excitement contagious. “If you get in, that means we can see each other all the time! The business and law buildings are right next to each other.”

Before Wonyoung could respond, Yujin started tapping the table like a drum, making little cheering sounds. His playful energy was hard to ignore, and despite herself, Wonyoung smiled. “Let’s open it!” he urged, his eyes wide with excitement.

With a slight roll of her eyes, Wonyoung opened the letter, Yujin practically vibrating with anticipation beside her. She scanned the contents quickly and then looked up. “I got in,” she said simply.

Yujin’s face broke into an even wider grin. “Yes! That means I’ll be seeing you a lot more!” He laughed, leaning back in his chair, clearly thrilled at the prospect.

Wonyoung raised an eyebrow, a playful smirk on her lips. “Seeing me a lot more? You mean annoying me a lot more.”

Yujin leaned forward, hands still tapping a rhythm on the table, his expression earnest but teasing. “Annoy? Me? No way. I’m going to make your life more fun, just watch.”

***

The conversation shifted from playful teasing to more serious topics. Wonyoung began to open up about her future plans, sharing her dreams of becoming a lawyer, not just for the prestige but to truly help people. She explained how hard she worked — balancing school, part-time jobs, and studying — and how her parents work hard too, her father is a cook while her mother is a teacher.

Yujin, usually carefree and easygoing, listened intently, nodding along and asking small questions to show he was genuinely interested. It was rare for him to be this focused, but he was truly interested in hearing about Wonyoung’s life.

When the conversation turned to him, Wonyoung casually accused him of being a "rich boy," given the nice things he wore and the fact that he seemed to always be chilling instead of stressing over money. Yujin chuckled softly, shaking his head. "No, we’re not rich. Comfortable, maybe, but my mom’s law firm isn’t big, you know this."

Wonyoung, in her no-nonsense tone, immediately encouraged him to take his studies more seriously. "You only have two years left in college, Yujin. You should start putting in the work. It’s not all games, you know."

Yujin’s lips curled into a playful grin. "Oh? And if I do? If I suddenly become a model student, would you consider dating me?"

Wonyoung burst out laughing, shaking her head. "You’re so full of bullshit, you know that? What makes you think I’d fall for that? I mean, we’ve exchanged numbers already, and yet…" She looked at him, raising an eyebrow. "You haven’t texted me once. I thought you weren’t interested."

“I didn’t want to disturb you. I figured you’re studying all the time.” Yujin leaned forward with a grin. "I’ll text you from now on. Even if you don’t reply, that’s okay. I just want you to know... I’m always thinking about you. And really, you don’t have to answer. It’s fine."

Wonyoung stared at him, her mind racing. She wasn’t sure if she could believe the sweet words coming from his mouth. Yujin had always been playful, never serious, yet the look in his eyes right now was different — gentle, earnest. Before she could form a response, a cold raindrop splashed onto her hand. She blinked and looked up at the darkening sky.

Then, the rain came pouring down, heavy and sudden, catching them both off guard.

They scrambled to gather their things. Yujin grabbed the beer bottles and plates, while Wonyoung frantically tried to pick up the food containers. The rooftop, once a calm and relaxing place, quickly became a chaotic scene as they hurried to get everything inside before it was drenched. They rushed through the door, laughing and out of breath, their clothes damp from the sudden downpour. Yujin wiped his forehead, his hair wet and sticking out in every direction, giving him an even dorkier look. Wonyoung couldn’t help but laugh at the sight of him.

After they hurried inside, still catching their breath, Yujin glanced at Wonyoung, noticing her damp clothes. "I’ve got some clothes in my room," he said, a little shy. "You can grab a hoodie or something. It’ll be more comfortable."

"Alright, thanks."

Yujin led her to his room, stopping outside the door. "I’ll change first, then you can go in," he said, disappearing inside. A few moments later, he emerged with a small tote bag slung over his shoulder, wearing fresh clothes. "Pick whatever you like," he said casually, stepping aside to give her space.

As Wonyoung stepped into the room, a wave of familiarity washed over her. This had once been her room before but now, it was completely transformed. What used to be her quiet study corner was now cluttered with energy drinks, an open bag of chips spilling onto the desk, and random gaming gear scattered around. The bed was unmade, with rumpled sheets and pillows tossed haphazardly, far from the tidy space she once kept.

She couldn't help but smile slightly, shaking her head at how much of a "guy’s" room it had become. The expensive sneakers lined up along the wall and Yujin’s gaming setup dominated the space, while the small piano and guitar added an unexpected touch of personality. Despite the mess, there was something endearing about the way his world seemed to fill the room so completely.

As she pulled on his hoodie, the thought crossed her mind that this was once her personal space, and now, it was entirely his domain. She had left behind the studious atmosphere, and Yujin’s chaotic, carefree energy had taken over, turning it into something entirely different — unapologetically him. Wonyoung felt a bit strange, wearing something of his, but she shook off the thought and stepped out of the room.

When Wonyoung exited, the soft fabric of his hoodie hanging loosely on her, she saw Yujin waiting casually, his signature grin in place. "It looks good on you."

“Thanks for the loan.”

"The rain’s stopped," Yujin said, peeking out the window. "I can walk you home, or to the bus stop. Whatever works for you."

Wonyoung paused for a second, glancing at the clear sky outside. "Bus stop is fine."

"Alright, let’s go."

***

As they strolled toward the bus stop, the cool post-rain air clinging to the streets, Yujin glanced at Wonyoung. “Your makeup’s a bit smudged.”

“I don’t have to look pretty for you.”

Yujin’s reply came naturally, cheesy as ever. “You always look pretty for me.”

She rolled her eyes, as they approached the bus stop, Wonyoung adjusted the hoodie she was wearing. “I’ll wash this first before I give it back,” she said.

Yujin shook his head. “You can keep it as long as you want. No rush.”

Wonyoung shot him a suspicious glance, and that’s when Yujin casually handed her the small tote bag he’d been carrying. She raised an eyebrow. “What’s this?”

“Just something you can borrow. I don’t use it that much,” he replied with a grin.

Curiosity piqued, Wonyoung peeked inside and immediately saw an iPad and a slim keyboard and some cables. Her eyes widened, and she tried to shove the bag back toward him. “Yujin, take this back.”

But Yujin just backed away, hands up as if surrendering. “Nope.”

“I swear, I’m going to drop it on the ground right now,” Wonyoung threatened, lifting the bag slightly as if to demonstrate her point.

Yujin grinned, still backing away. “Go ahead. It’ll probably get stolen, though. I won’t be picking it up.”

Wonyoung huffed, shaking her head at him. When she made a move toward him, Yujin took a sudden step back and then another, his grin widening. And before Wonyoung could react, he broke into a sprint, running down the street like his life depended on it. She was left staring at his retreating figure, her disbelief turning into laughter as she half-heartedly chased him for a few steps. “Yujin!!!!” she screamed.

“Ridiculous,” she muttered under her breath, watching as he disappeared around the corner, still running like a kid.

Just then, her bus pulled up. She glanced back one last time in the direction Yujin had gone, shook her head with a smirk, and stepped onto the bus. As it pulled away, she caught a glimpse of the tote bag on her lap, wondering if this was another of his relentless, dorky antics.

***

Wonyoung sat on the bus, her gaze idly drifting to the tote bag resting on her lap. She sighed softly, still processing the whirlwind that was Yujin. After a moment, curiosity got the best of her, and she peeked inside the bag again, rifling through the contents when something small caught her eye. A sticky note.

She pulled it out, unfolding it carefully as if it held some secret. Written in Yujin’s messy handwriting, the note read:

“You don’t have to go out anymore to do your school work and research. :)”

At the bottom, there was a playful signature.

—Yujinnie

A smile tugged at Wonyoung’s lips before she could even stop it. The thoughtfulness behind his gesture wasn’t lost on her. Yujin, for all his teasing and antics, had found a way to help her without making a big show of it.

She leaned back in her seat, still smiling as she crossed her arms, hugging herself slightly. She adjusted the hoodie she was still wearing, pulling it closer as she caught a faint whiff of his scent. There was something comforting about it — about him, really — that she hadn’t expected. Despite her insistence on keeping her distance, Yujin somehow managed to sneak his way into her thoughts.

For a moment, Wonyoung closed her eyes, letting the warmth of the hoodie and the lingering smell of Yujin provide her with an unexpected sense of comfort. Maybe he was childish and a bit annoying, but there was something undeniably sweet about him that she was starting to notice, even if she didn’t want to admit it.

As the bus rolled through the quiet streets, Wonyoung found herself wondering what kind of antic Yujin would show her next — and more surprisingly, why part of her was looking forward to it.

***

Yujin sat quietly at the public library near the school, his attention focused on the open notebook in front of him. His bag, filled with crumpled papers and textbooks, sat beside him as he scratched his head, trying to make sense of the homework. He wasn’t used to studying in a place like this, but he figured it was better than procrastinating in his messy dorm room.

Suddenly, a familiar voice called out. "Hey, Yujin!" It was Liz and Giselle, two of Wonyoung’s friends, approaching with friendly smiles. Yujin blinked in surprise but quickly smiled back.

"Hey," he said, leaning back in his chair.

Liz raised an eyebrow playfully, clearly amused by the sight of him actually studying. "Mind if we join?"

"Sure," Yujin replied with a casual nod, pulling his bag off the table and placing it beside him to make room. Liz and Giselle sat down across from him, their own notebooks and laptops spread out as they settled in.

As they started setting up, Liz glanced at Giselle with a mischievous grin. She quickly pulled out her phone and sent a message to Wonyoung. We’re at the library. Come join us.

Wonyoung’s reply came quickly. I’m done reading, not going out.

Liz wasn’t giving up that easily. She typed out another message with a smirk. Yujin is here. She put her phone down and shared a knowing look with Giselle. Meanwhile, Yujin was oblivious to their scheming, too busy trying to figure out his homework. But soon enough, they’d have company—and things were bound to get interesting.

***

A little while later, Wonyoung entered the library, her eyes scanning the rows of tables until she spotted Liz, Giselle, and — of course — Yujin, sitting together near the law section. She hesitated for a moment, already feeling a little awkward. But she couldn’t back out now. She approached the group, trying to keep her cool.

Liz spotted her first, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Well, well, well," she said with a teasing grin as Wonyoung reached the table. "I thought you were done studying for the day?"

Yujin immediately looked up, his face lighting up with a happy, cheerful smile. "Wonyoung! Hi!" he greeted her enthusiastically, clearly excited to see her.

Wonyoung tensed slightly, caught off guard by Yujin's genuine excitement. She forced a smile and replied, "It’s always nice to do some advance reading." She tried to sound casual, but her voice was a little stiff.

"Oh yeah?" Liz asked. "What are you going to advance read?"

Wonyoung’s mind raced for an answer, but she was scrambling. Her eyes darted to the nearby bookshelf, and in a slight panic, she grabbed the first book she could reach. She didn’t even check the title before turning back to the group.

Giselle narrowed her eyes, sensing something off. "Since when do you want to be a divorce lawyer?" she asked.

Wonyoung blinked, confused. She glanced at the book she’d just grabbed and realized, to her horror, that it was a guide on divorce law for lawyers. She felt her cheeks heat up as she stuttered, trying to come up with an excuse. "Uh — well, you know... we’ll be in law school soon... it’s always good to, um, keep your options open?"

Liz and Giselle exchanged a knowing look, both clearly holding back laughter. Liz made a mock-serious face and whispered something to Giselle, which earned a snicker from her. They were clearly enjoying Wonyoung’s flustered state.

With no other option, Wonyoung quickly sat down beside Yujin, trying to ignore the teasing. Yujin, for his part, looked amused but didn’t say anything. He just smiled at her, seemingly just happy to have her there.

***

As they strolled through the quiet neighborhood, the evening air was filled with light chatter. Giselle and Liz pointed out their dorm building as they walked, laughing about how close it was to their favorite café. "That’s where we stay," Giselle said, pointing to the building up ahead. "All three of us. Roommates."

“It’s not really far from the Bamboo Dorm,” Yujin said.

Liz grinned, eyes gleaming with mischief as she turned to Wonyoung. "Oh, yes. It’s near and besides," she added with a wink, "you’ll be a lot closer to Yujin now, too, since we’ll all be going to Hanseong University for law."

Yujin’s eyes lit up at the mention of Wonyoung being closer. Without thinking, he clapped his hands together and said, "Yay!" like a kid who just got great news, his excitement so innocent and unfiltered that it made the group smile at how adorable and dorky he was.

But then Giselle, always the playful one, suddenly smirked and nudged Wonyoung. "Hey, Yujin, you should look at Wonyoung’s phone case. It’s... interesting."

Curious, Yujin turned his attention to Wonyoung, who immediately tensed up. She felt her cheeks flush as she remembered what Giselle was talking about — the sticky note with Yujin’s cheesy pick-up line folded neatly behind her phone case. She had forgotten all about it, and now it was clearly visible from the back.

Wonyoung’s face turned bright red. "Oh, it’s nothing!" she said quickly, awkwardly clutching her phone as she pretended to be busy with her phone. "I, um, have to hurry. My mom’s calling." Without waiting for a response, she sped up her pace, walking ahead with a speed that was just short of a full sprint.

Yujin looked on, confused but amused, as Liz and Giselle burst into laughter behind him, watching Wonyoung practically speed-walk towards their dorm.

When they finally reached their dorm, Wonyoung was already inside, having escaped the situation entirely. Liz and Giselle turned to Yujin, still grinning. "Thanks for walking us, Yujin," Liz said, giving him a playful nudge. "By the way, it’s my birthday soon, and you’re invited Goodnight!"

"Goodnight!" Giselle added, waving as they both disappeared into the building, leaving Yujin standing there, still grinning from the odd and eventful walk.

Chapter Text

Yujin strolled into his mother’s law firm, hands tucked into his hoodie pockets, heading straight for the cafeteria. Ever since his mother had cut off his allowance, he’d found himself being more creative with his budget. He didn’t want to dip into the money he earned from the café — he was trying to save that up — so he figured why not start swinging by the office for lunch whenever he could? After all, the firm had cooks on hand to prepare breakfast, lunch and snacks for the employees, and his mother never said no to him eating for free. 

As he sat down and started to eat, the homemade Korean food reminded him of how much he missed proper meals. Sure, he could have eaten at the café, but nothing beat the comforting taste of the dishes the law firm’s cooks whipped up. And there was a reason he was here and not using the café discounts — those free meals? He was saving them, for whenever Wonyoung visits the cafe and besides, he’d always preferred home-cooked food anyway. That, and honestly, he couldn’t bring himself to sell his toys or collectible items yet, even if he knew he could make some quick cash that way. The thought of parting with his favorite figures and limited edition sets made him cringe. Those were part of his personality, part of the things he genuinely loved and wasn’t ready to let go of just yet. Besides, he was confident he could get by if he budgeted a little better and took advantage of these free lunches. 

As he entered the cafeteria, the familiar scent of freshly cooked food greeted him. Yujin scanned the room, noticing the usual lawyers and office staff chatting and eating. But his eyes flickered toward one person who was missing — Wonyoung.

Curious, Yujin grabbed a tray and made his way to the buffet, helping himself to the best dishes, but his mind kept wandering. Wonyoung wasn’t here? That felt odd. Maybe she was busy with something. 

After filling his tray, Yujin sat down with some of the paralegals he’d occasionally chat with during his visits. "Hey," he said casually between bites, "where’s Wonyoung? She’s not here today?" 

One of the paralegals looked up from her plate and smiled. "Oh, she’s in your mother’s office today. I think they’re working on something important. She’s been in there all morning." 

For a moment, he felt a surge of curiosity, wondering what they were working on and how Wonyoung was handling it. He could picture her in there, focused, probably making a good impression. After all, his mom seemed to like Wonyoung a lot. 

Finishing his meal quickly, Yujin sat back for a moment, thinking. He had time before his next class. Maybe he’d drop by, just to say hello. It wasn’t like he was trying to snoop or anything — he was just curious. Plus, it was a good excuse to check in on Wonyoung, right? With that thought, he smiled to himself, deciding to pay a quick visit to his mother’s office to see what was going on. 

Yujin knocked lightly on the door to his mother’s office before stepping inside, a wide smile already on his face. “Hey, Mom! Hi, Wonyoung!” he greeted cheerfully, catching both his mother and Wonyoung off guard. Wonyoung looked up from the stack of papers she was reviewing, and Ji-young paused mid-pack as she stuffed files into her designer handbag. 

Ji-young raised an eyebrow at Yujin’s sudden appearance. “What are you doing here?” she asked, though she knew the answer. 

“Just came for lunch,” Yujin replied with a carefree grin.

His mother sighed, shaking her head with an exasperated smile. “Of course you are. Free lunch again, huh?” She zipped up her bag, clearly used to Yujin’s freeloading habits. “I have to meet a client soon, so I’m heading out.”

“Bye, Mom!” Yujin waved, not the least bit phased by her teasing. He then turned his attention to Wonyoung, who was sitting at his mother’s desk, diligently working on something important.

Wonyoung gave him a brief nod, a small smile tugging at her lips as she glanced up from her work. “Hey, Yujin.” 

Ji-young stood up and slung her bag over her shoulder, looking at Wonyoung. “I trust you’ll finish this for me?”

“Of course,” Wonyoung said confidently, her focus already shifting back to the task at hand. “I’ll take care of everything.” 

Ji-young nodded approvingly. “Good,” she said, before turning back to Yujin. “Don’t bother her while she’s working.” 

“I won’t,” Yujin replied with an exaggerated pout, his tone playful as always. Ji-young rolled her eyes one last time and left, closing the door behind her. 

Yujin, now alone with Wonyoung, leaned casually against the side of the desk, watching her work. He admired how focused she was, always so composed and in control. It made him wonder how someone could be so serious and collected all the time. But that was part of what intrigued him about her. He never quite knew what she was thinking. 

“So… what are you working on?” he asked, peeking over her shoulder. 

Wonyoung didn’t miss a beat, her fingers still gliding across the keyboard. “Some contracts your mom needs for a client. It’s pretty straightforward.” 

Yujin nodded, pretending to understand. “Sounds… important.” 

“It is,” Wonyoung said with a smirk, glancing at him before turning back to her screen. 

Yujin settled into a chair near Wonyoung, his eyes trailing over her as she typed away, immersed in her work. After a moment of silence, he casually asked, “Have you eaten yet?” 

Without looking up from her screen, Wonyoung replied, “Not yet. I’m too busy right now.” Her voice was steady, completely focused on the task at hand. 

Yujin leaned forward slightly. “Come on, you need to eat. You can’t just work nonstop.” 

“I’ll eat later when I’m finished,” she said calmly, still typing, her eyes glued to the contracts in front of her. “I’m almost done.” 

Yujin frowned, not quite satisfied with her answer. “Is it really worth starving yourself just for work?” 

Wonyoung finally glanced up, meeting his eyes briefly before returning to her computer. “Work and studies first, Yujin,” she said with a small smile. “I’ve gone several days eating just once a day before. I’ll be fine.” 

Her words hit Yujin harder than he expected. He didn’t say anything right away, just stared at her — this girl who was so dedicated, so determined. She spoke about sacrificing meals like it was nothing, like it was just another part of the grind she had to endure. There was no complaint in her voice, no hesitation. She was completely committed to what she was doing, willing to push herself beyond limits just to keep going. 

Yujin found himself admiring her more. He knew Wonyoung was smart, driven, but seeing it up close like this was different. She was so passionate about her work that she could go hours — days, even — without proper rest or food, because she loved it. It made him feel almost guilty for how laid-back he was in comparison. While she was dedicating every ounce of energy to her goals, he was out there scheduling naps, gaming sessions, and music practice around his free time. 

He sat there, silently watching her work, feeling a newfound respect for Wonyoung that ran deeper than the playful admiration he’d had before. His usual playful banter was stuck in his throat, replaced by something deeper, something he hadn’t quite figured out how to describe. It started as a crush — just a simple, harmless crush. She was beautiful, and that had been enough at first. He’d been drawn to her smile, the way her eyes seemed to light up when she laughed, and how effortlessly cool she looked no matter what she wore. But now, sitting here, watching her type away with laser-sharp focus, he realized it wasn’t just that. No this wasn’t just a crush or infatuation anymore. Wonyoung was resilient. She didn’t just get by or coast through life; she fought for what she wanted. She worked tirelessly, juggling school, her job, and who knows what else. And she never complained. She was driven in a way that made him question his own priorities. Sure, he was passionate about music, and he loved his laid-back life, but seeing her made him want to be better. To take things more seriously. He admired her resilience, her discipline, the way she chased after her dreams with such intensity. It made him want to be better, to take his own life and goals more seriously. 

There was something about her presence that calmed him. Wonyoung didn’t even have to say anything; just being near her made him feel lighter. Yujin felt this undeniable pull toward her now, something that wasn’t just about wanting to impress her or get her attention. He wanted to keep seeing her, to understand the layers beneath her hard-working exterior, to be part of her life in whatever way she’d allow. Her drive, her strength, and even her reluctance — it all fascinated him. His heart swelled with something he wasn’t ready to call love yet, but he knew that’s where it’s going to end up. 

Wonyoung didn’t notice his quiet reflection, too focused on her task. But Yujin, now even more captivated by her, couldn’t help but feel that whatever effort he made from here on out — whether in his studies or his personal life — he wanted to match the same passion she had. 

***

Wonyoung, Liz, and Giselle were sitting under a large tree, in the university park, chatting casually, when Jeong-do and his friends strolled toward them. His confident stride and easy smile caught the attention of others as he made his way to their small group. 

"Hey, Wonyoung," Jeong-do greeted her first, a charming grin on his face. "I’m throwing a little party at a new bar next week. You and your friends should definitely come." 

"We’ll see,” she replied.

“Actually, it’ll be my birthday on Saturday, maybe you want to come too?” Liz said.

Jeong-do nodded, “that’s awesome, we’ll be there.” Then his eyes lingering on Wonyoung longer than the others. "I’ll be looking forward to seeing you there," he added, the words aimed specifically at Wonyoung before turning away with his friends, waving casually as he left. 

As soon as he was out of earshot, Liz nudged Wonyoung’s side playfully. "Jeong-do is so handsome, rich, and smart. I swear every girl has a crush on him," she gushed, her voice filled with excitement. 

Wonyoung smiled shyly, feeling the weight of Liz’s words. She couldn’t deny it — Jeong-do was definitely a catch. He was well-known on campus, popular, and always seemed to have everything together. It was flattering to think he might be paying attention to her. 

But just as her thoughts started to drift, Giselle chimed in, her tone more curious. "But... what about Yujin?" 

Liz quickly jumped in before Wonyoung could answer. "Wonyoung isn’t interested in Yujin anyway, right Wonyoung?" Her eyes sparkled mischievously as she teased her friend, clearly enjoying the thought of Wonyoung with someone as perfect as Jeong-do. 

Wonyoung paused for a second, her mind flashing to Yujin’s carefree grin, his playful antics, and his sincerity that was so different from Jeong-do’s polished charm. But she shook it off. "Yeah, I’m not," she finally said, her voice quieter than before. "Yujin will probably get over his crush soon. We’re just friends."

Liz giggled at the prospect of Wonyoung and Jeong-do becoming something more, already imagining the rumors and admiration that would follow. "You and Jeong-do would make such a power couple," she squealed. 

Giselle, on the other hand, didn’t look so convinced. There was something off about Jeong-do, something she couldn’t quite put her finger on. She glanced at Wonyoung, as if thinking of Yujin. "Jeong-do seems... I don’t know, a bit too good to be true," Giselle said cautiously. 

Liz rolled her eyes and waved a hand dismissively. "Come on, Giselle. Sometimes perfect people do exist. Jeong-do is practically that. Wonyoung’s lucky!" Then she turned to Wonyoung. "Maybe it’s time for you to get a boyfriend before law school starts. I mean, who knows how much time you'll have for fun once you’re buried in case studies and textbooks?" 

"A boyfriend?" she echoed, amused. "I don’t really have time for that right now." 

Liz waved her off, undeterred. "Oh, come on! You’ve got options. Isn’t Jeong-do going into law too? You could totally have a short relationship before things get too crazy. Just enjoy it, Wonyoung. Maybe it’s time to finally surrender and give in it! Or something to help ease all that stress." She winked dramatically, making Giselle shake her head. 

Wonyoung laughed, her cheeks flushing a little at the bold suggestion. "You’re impossible, Liz," she said, shaking her head at the thought, though somewhere in the back of her mind, a small part of her was curious. Jeong-do was attractive, charming, and definitely had that air of confidence that could draw anyone in. Would he be that guy? The idea lingered, but she quickly brushed it aside. 

Giselle, her expression more serious, leaned forward, her voice gentle but firm. "Wonyoung shouldn’t casually sleep with people, Liz, her first time should be with someone special. That’s not her. You can’t just treat relationships like some sort of stress-reliever. It should be with someone she truly cares about. You know, someone she loves."

Liz raised an eyebrow but nodded thoughtfully. “I get it, Giselle. But sometimes we need to let go and stop overthinking. Wonyoung’s always so serious about everything! She deserves to have some fun, right?” 

Wonyoung felt a bit conflicted. The idea of experiencing intimacy was a bit intimidating, but the thought of doing it with someone she truly loved... that felt more like something she could understand. She smiled at Giselle’s concern, feeling grateful for her friend's more grounded perspective. "Thanks, Giselle," she said softly. "But don’t worry, I’m not planning on doing anything crazy. Besides," she added with a small smirk, "I don’t think Jeong-do’s the type I’d want for something like that anyway." 

Giselle added with a soft smile, “Just remember, Wonyoung, don’t feel pressured. You deserve someone who treats you right, and who makes you feel safe.” 

Liz playfully pouted. "Well, if Jeong-do isn’t, then who is?" 

Wonyoung looked at her friends and couldn’t help but smile, feeling grateful for their care. She wasn’t sure what her future held, but she knew she had people who genuinely wanted the best for her. For now, she would focus on herself and her goals, and everything else would come in time.

But as they continued chatting, Giselle’s unease lingered. She couldn’t help but feel bad for Yujin, who had been so sweet and genuine in his feelings for Wonyoung. Deep down, she liked Yujin more for her friend, even if no one else saw it. 

***

Wonyoung pushed open the door to Café Soohwa, her eyes scanning the cozy interior for any sign of Yujin. She had been eager to surprise him today with some good news — the refund for his Pokémon trading card had finally come through and she finally had money to save for a laptop so she’s returning his Ipad now. And, in a way of saying thanks for all the free food and those little acts of kindness, she brought a dish her mother had made. 

She walked up to the counter, glancing around. No Yujin. Maybe it was his day off? She asked the girl behind the counter, who smiled warmly. 

"Oh, Yujin? He's just on his break at the back of the cafe," Lia said, pointing to the rear door. 

Wonyoung thanked her and made her way toward the back of the building, carefully stepping outside. But as she neared, something stopped her in her tracks — a soft, high-pitched voice coming from Yujin. She froze, curious, and inched closer without making a sound. 

"I bought this milk, and the store said it's good for puppies," Yujin's voice floated through the air, sounding almost playful, as if he were talking to a child. 

Wonyoung’s heart softened as she carefully stepped forward, peeking around the corner. There he was, squatting with his back to her, holding a small carton of milk. In front of him, a tiny, fluffy puppy was lapping up milk from a bowl, its little tail wagging. 

Yujin gently petted the pup. "Popo, I can’t get you home because pets aren’t allowed in my dorm... and no one can take care of you at my house." His voice was soft, almost apologetic. "You have to stay here while I look for your new family, okay?" 

Wonyoung couldn’t help but smile at the scene. There was something so genuine, so sweet about Yujin, crouched there with this abandoned puppy, worrying over it like a gentle, caring soul. She had always seen him as carefree, sometimes immature, but this side of him — a boy with a big heart — was even more endearing than she’d expected. 

She stood there for a moment longer, watching the way Yujin gently poured more milk into the bowl, his focus entirely on the puppy. His words were filled with concern, and the sight of him trying to take care of a creature that couldn’t fend for itself stirred something deep within her. 

Finally, Wonyoung cleared her throat softly, stepping forward. "Yujin?" 

He jolted a little, turning around with wide eyes. "Wonyoung! I didn’t hear you... uh, when did you get here?" 

Wonyoung grinned, holding up the food container. "A few minutes ago. I didn’t want to interrupt... and, well, I brought you something. My mom made too much food, and I thought you might want to share." 

Yujin's face lit up with a mixture of surprise and excitement, but he still seemed a little embarrassed. "Oh, that’s really nice of you! And this is Popo." He gestured to the puppy, who was now nudging his foot for more attention. 

Wonyoung smiled softly. "He’s cute... and so are you, taking care of him." 

Yujin’s ears flushed pink. "I, uh... I found him near the alley a few days ago. He’s been hanging around, and I couldn’t just leave him." He looked back at the puppy, his expression softening again. "I just don’t know what to do with him yet." 

Wonyoung glanced at the small cage sitting beside Yujin, raising an eyebrow. "Did you buy the cage for him?" 

Yujin nodded, scratching the back of his head sheepishly. "Yeah, I couldn’t just leave him wandering around. He needs a safe space, at least for now." 

Wonyoung smiled even more, impressed by how thoughtful Yujin was, even in these small details. "I could ask around, see if anyone would be willing to adopt him. I’m sure there are some good families looking for a pup." 

Yujin’s face lit up with gratitude. "Really? That would be amazing, Wonyoung. Thank you so much." He turned back to the puppy, his voice dropping to that playful, high-pitched tone again. "Popo, do you want to find your new home now? Your Wonyoung noona is going to help you out." 

The puppy wagged its tail, clueless but clearly happy with all the attention. Wonyoung couldn’t help but smile at the sight, her heart warming as she watched Yujin. There was something so innocent about him, so genuine in the way he cared for the little things around him. 

As she watched Yujin crouching there, talking to the puppy like it understood him, Wonyoung found herself smiling again. He was so kind, so warm, and maybe... a little too sweet for his own good. 

***

As the sun dipped below the horizon, Wonyoung and Yujin made their way through the neighborhood with Popo. The little puppy was content, snuggled up in the small cage Yujin was carefully carrying. Wonyoung walked beside him, carrying a bag filled with Popo’s food, toys, and supplies they had prepared for his new home. 

Earlier that day, after they hung out at Café Soohwa with Popo, Wonyoung had posted a few pictures of the puppy on her social media, hoping someone would be interested in giving him a loving home. She hadn’t expected to receive a message from Hae-Young, a classmate from her pre-law classes, who instantly fell in love with Popo and asked if she could adopt him. 

Now, as they approached the meeting spot in the evening air, Wonyoung couldn’t help but glance at Yujin, who was grinning ear to ear, clearly happy for Popo but also for how things had worked out. 

“I can’t believe Hae-Young was interested so quickly,” Wonyoung said, her voice light with excitement. “Popo’s going to have such a great home.” 

Yujin nodded, his eyes fixed ahead but his smile broadening as he spoke. “Yeah, it’s perfect. And you made it happen. I thought it would take longer, but... I guess Popo’s just that lovable.” He glanced down at the little puppy, who let out a soft whimper from inside the cage. 

Wonyoung looked at Yujin for a moment, the warmth of his happiness rubbing off on her. “It was a team effort,” she said, nudging him lightly with her shoulder. “I think Popo really liked you.” 

Yujin chuckled. “You think? Maybe he could sense how much I wanted to keep him.” 

Wonyoung smiled at that. She knew Yujin had grown attached to Popo, even though he couldn’t keep him in the dorms. “I’m sure he did. But you’re doing the right thing. Hae-Young will take good care of him.” 

As they turned the corner, they saw Hae-Young waiting for them near a small park, a wide smile on her face as she spotted Popo. Wonyoung and Yujin waved at her, picking up their pace a little as they approached. 

Yujin lowered the cage gently on the ground, kneeling down to give Popo one last scratch behind the ears before standing up. “Here’s your new mom, Popo,” he said with a playful grin, though there was a touch of sadness in his voice. 

Wonyoung handed over the bag of supplies to Hae-Young, who thanked them both profusely. “He’s perfect,” Hae-Young said, her eyes shining as she knelt down to meet Popo through the bars of the cage. “Thank you so much, you guys. I’ll take really good care of him.” 

They exchanged a look, their mission complete. As they said their goodbyes and watched Hae-Young walk away with Popo in tow, Yujin turned to Wonyoung with a softer expression. 

“You know,” he began, his voice a little quieter, “I’m really glad we did this together. I know it’s silly, but it feels like... we gave Popo a happy ending.” 

“Yeah,” she said softly. “I think we did.” 

***

Yujin and Wonyoung walked in comfortable silence toward the bus stop. To his surprise, Wonyoung had agreed to let him walk her home. It was a simple gesture, but to Yujin, it felt like a small victory — a chance to spend just a little more time with her. 

As they boarded the bus and sat next to each other, Yujin couldn't help but feel a little giddy, his heart racing from their closeness. They had shared some meaningful moments today, from their time with Popo to this quiet ride home. He glanced at Wonyoung, who seemed a bit more tired than usual, the day’s events catching up to her. She leaned her head against the window, trying to get comfortable, but the bus’s gentle sway kept knocking her head slightly against the glass. 

He frowned, watching her in concern. Without thinking too much, he carefully reached over and shifted her head from the window, guiding it gently onto his shoulder instead. His movements were soft, cautious, not wanting to wake her but hoping she'd be more comfortable. 

His heart hammered in his chest. 

She’s so close. He could feel the warmth of her head resting on him, her hair lightly brushing against his neck. Every small breath she took made him more aware of how close they were, and he swallowed nervously, trying to keep his composure. This was different. He had liked Wonyoung for a while now — crushed on her, admired her — but in this moment, with her head on his shoulder, he felt something deeper, more intimate. She felt so at peace next to him, and he wanted to protect that. 

Wonyoung’s phone was still loosely clutched in her hand, and Yujin, noticing how relaxed her grip was, feared she might drop it. He hesitated for a moment before gently slipping the phone out of her hand. As he did, the screen suddenly lit up with a notification. Yujin’s eyes, against his better judgment, flicked toward the message that appeared. 

Jeong-Do: You are so beautiful Wonyoung, I can’t wait to see you tomorrow night on Liz’s birthday. 

Yujin froze. 

His chest tightened as he read the words, and for a second, it felt like the air was knocked out of him. His gaze stayed fixed on the message, the words echoing in his head. Beautiful. Tomorrow night. He hadn’t known Wonyoung was seeing someone else — or at least, that someone else was already this interested in her. 

He quickly turned the phone face-down in his lap, a storm of emotions swirling inside him. He tried to process the sudden wave of jealousy and confusion. She had said she wasn’t interested in him before. She had made it clear that she just wanted to be friends. He knew that. He knew she wasn’t his. But reading that message, knowing that someone else was making her feel special, it hurt more than he thought it would. Especially now, with her so close, so peaceful against him. 

His chest tightened, and he felt a bitter sting in his throat, like he was holding back something he didn’t even know was there. Jealousy, frustration, disappointment — it was all swirling together inside him. He’s never been this bothered before. He’s had crushes, flings, girls he liked, but nothing hit him like this. 

He looked down at Wonyoung, her serene face still resting on his shoulder, and felt a strange mix of tenderness and sadness. It wasn’t like he could just ask her about the message. But the fact that Jeong-Do, of all people, was thinking about her — complimenting her, planning to see her — it left an unsettling ache in his chest. 

Does she like him back? 

He shifted slightly in his seat, careful not to wake her, and stared out the bus window. His mind was racing, but there was nothing he could do. Wonyoung was already slipping away from him, and maybe she was never his to hold onto in the first place. 

Wonyoung shifted a little, pressing her head closer against his shoulder, and for a moment, Yujin closed his eyes, savoring the warmth of her presence. He knew it wouldn’t last forever. And when the bus ride ended, she’d wake up, and he’d have to let her go — to Jeong-Do, or whoever else made her smile the way he wished he could. 

But for now, he let her rest, even though his heart ached with every passing second. 

Chapter Text

At Café Soohwa, the bell chimed as Giselle stepped in, her eyes scanning the counter. She smiled when she spotted Yujin, who was his usual cheerful self, taking orders with that familiar warmth that seemed to light up the café. She approached the counter.

“Hey Yujin!” Giselle greeted, tapping the counter lightly. “I’m just grabbing a take-out today.” 

“Giselle noona! What’s up?” Yujin responded with a bright grin, already reaching for her usual order. He always seemed in a good mood when he was working, always so cheerful.

As he packed the order, Giselle casually asked, “So, will I be seeing you later at Liz’s party?” 

Yujin’s smile faltered, the brightness dimming from his face. His hand paused for a moment before he resumed packing the take-out. “Uh… no, I don’t think so,” he mumbled. 

Giselle blinked, noticing the change in his demeanor. “Wait, why not?” she asked, tilting her head. “You were so excited about it before.”

He sighed, avoiding eye contact as he slid the take-out bag across the counter. “I just think… it might be better if I didn’t go,” he admitted softly. “Wonyoung’s seeing someone already. Jeong-Do, I think.” 

Giselle’s brows furrowed in confusion for a moment before realization dawned on her. She felt a pang of sympathy, knowing how much Yujin liked Wonyoung. 

“Yujin…” Giselle began carefully, glancing around the cafe. She lowered her voice, her tone shifting into something more serious. “Can I talk to you? Like, privately?” 

His eyes flickered with curiosity and concern, but he nodded slowly. Giselle’s tone told him this wasn’t just casual conversation. He wiped his hands on his apron and gestured to the back corner of the café. 

***

Giselle stepped into the bar, the low hum of music and chatter filling the space. It was Liz’s birthday, and everyone was in high spirits. But as she walked further in, to everyone’s surprise, Yujin followed close behind her. The partygoers exchanged curious glances, but Yujin kept his head down, wearing an uneasy smile, already regretting his decision to show up. 

His eyes immediately scanned the room, and there she was — Wonyoung, sitting beside Jeong-Do. Yujin’s stomach dropped as he noticed Jeong-Do’s arm resting casually on the back of Wonyoung’s chair, too close for comfort. Yujin sighed inwardly, his heart sinking. Why did I agree to come here? he wondered bitterly. The night suddenly felt impossibly long, filled with a looming sense of dread and heartbreak. 

Wonyoung looked up, and her eyes widened in surprise when she spotted Yujin. She hadn’t expected him to come. Their gazes locked for a fleeting second, a mix of confusion and awkwardness hanging in the air before Yujin quickly looked away. He had to remind himself — She’s not interested, she made that clear. But it still hurt. 

Yujin made his way to Liz, forcing a smile as he handed her a small paper bag. “Happy birthday, Liz. Here’s a little something for you,” he said softly, avoiding Wonyoung’s direction. 

Liz grinned and took the bag. “Aww, Yujin, you’re so sweet! Thanks for coming!” she exclaimed, leaning in for a quick hug. 

Yujin nodded, but his heart wasn’t in it. He took a seat next to Giselle, slouching slightly, his head down as if trying to shrink into himself. He glanced up, watching Jeong-Do lean in close to Wonyoung, whispering something in her ear that made her giggle softly. Each moment felt like torture — a painful reminder of what he couldn’t have, of how Wonyoung had chosen someone else. 

Giselle, sensing Yujin’s discomfort, leaned over and whispered, “I’m really sorry I brought you here. I didn’t know it would be like this.” 

Yujin exhaled heavily, giving her a weak smile. “It’s okay,” he murmured, eyes flickering back to Wonyoung for a split second. “Better to be sure and careful… I needed to see for myself, I guess.” His voice was quiet, carrying the weight of resignation. 

But as he sat there, watching Wonyoung with Jeong-Do, he couldn’t help but feel the heavy ache in his chest. No matter how much he tried to play it off, it was clear — this night would be harder than he imagined. 

***

Wonyoung sat by the table, watching as Liz laughed loudly, surrounded by friends celebrating her birthday. It was one of those lively evenings, the kind she usually enjoyed, but tonight, something felt off. She couldn’t shake the strange emptiness inside her, and it didn’t take her long to realize why. Yujin. 

He had entered with Giselle earlier, but something was different tonight. Yujin wasn’t speaking to her, not even glancing her way. He seemed distant, and for some odd reason, that bothered her more than it should. Normally, Yujin would make jokes, tease her, or at least give her that goofy grin from across the room. But now? It was like she didn’t exist. 

As the evening went on, Wonyoung found herself distracted, her eyes drifting to Yujin every few minutes. Even when she tried to focus on the conversation with Jeong-Do and the others, there was this gnawing feeling — almost like she didn’t want Yujin to see her talking to Jeong-Do or any other guy for that matter. Why did it matter, though? She couldn’t explain it, but it did. 

Suddenly, Yujin stood up from his chair, his face unreadable, and without thinking, Wonyoung's body moved on reflex. She started to stand as well, as if pulled by some invisible force. But before she could take a step, she felt Jeong-Do's hand gently wrap around her wrist, stopping her. 

"Where are you going?" he asked. "We’re having so much fun here." 

Wonyoung froze for a second, her heart racing as her eyes flicked back to Yujin. He was already walking away, his back turned to her. She felt a pang in her chest, the emptiness growing larger with every step he took away from her. 

Before she could process why she felt this way, Jeong-Do leaned in closer. "I like you, Wonyoung," he said softly, his words lingering in the air. 

But Wonyoung's thoughts weren’t on Jeong-Do. All she could think about was Yujin disappearing from the room, leaving her feeling more lost than she ever expected. 

***

Yujin stepped outside, needing a moment to breathe, his head heavy with everything he'd just witnessed inside. The cool night air hit his face as he pulled out a cigarette, lighting it with shaking hands. He wasn’t much of a smoker, but tonight, the weight of seeing Wonyoung so close to Jeong-Do was suffocating. He needed something to ground him, to quiet the storm raging in his chest. 

But as he took a drag, voices caught his attention nearby. Jeong-Do’s voice, unmistakable, along with two other guys. Yujin glanced over and saw them standing just a little ways off, their conversation pulling him in before he could decide whether to walk away. 

“Did you bring it?” Jeong-Do asked. 

“Yeah,” one of the guys replied, holding up a small pouch. “It’ll knock her out until morning. You can do whatever you want with her, man. She won’t remember a thing. She’ll just think she got too drunk.” 

Yujin froze, his hand gripping the cigarette so tightly it nearly snapped in half. His heart pounded in his chest as Jeong-Do let out a low chuckle. 

The second guy added with a smirk, “Make sure to take pictures, man. Everyone would pay to see you with Wonyoung. The untouchable beauty.” 

“Perfect. Wonyoung the untouchable beauty… I told the bitch I liked her and guess what? She didn’t even flinch, that cold-hearted bitch. Always think she is above everyone else.” Jeong-Do’s voice dripped with bitterness. “She’ll be mine tonight. And of course, I’ll take pictures, videos — the whole deal. No one’s going to believe it when I show them. Wonyoung... thinking she’s better than everyone else. Not anymore.” 

Another guy chimed in, laughing, “Damn, man, this is going to be legendary.” 

Yujin’s stomach twisted, his pulse pounding in his ears. For a split second, he stood frozen, his mind grappling with what he’d just heard. This wasn’t just some petty rivalry over a girl he liked — this was something far more sinister. Jeong-Do wasn’t just the guy he was jealous of; he was a predator, planning to hurt Wonyoung in the worst possible way. 

His blood boiled. The cigarette fell from his fingers, crushed beneath his shoe as he stormed toward them, fury coursing through his veins. His hand balled into a fist at his side. His heart raced, fear flickering in the back of his mind. Three against one. He didn’t care. That primal surge of anger burned through him, hotter than any jealousy he had ever felt. 

Wonyoung. 

The image of her laughing, innocent and trusting, flashed in his mind. The thought of Jeong-Do doing something horrible to her — his Wonyoung — ignited something fierce in him. He couldn’t stand back and do nothing. His hesitation evaporated, replaced with a righteous fury. 

Yujin stepped out from the shadows. His voice was low, dangerous. “What the hell did you just say?” 

***

The atmosphere inside the bar was warm and filled with the low hum of casual conversations and laughter. Wonyoung sat with Liz, Giselle, and a few of their classmates, sipping on drinks as they chatted about school, plans for the weekend, and the usual gossip. The night felt light, typical of their gatherings. Wonyoung was trying to stay focused, but her mind kept wandering, stealing glances at Jeong-Do who had stepped outside with some of his friends. She hadn’t expected Yujin to show up at all, but seeing him earlier with Giselle had thrown her off guard. 

Suddenly, a commotion broke through the lively atmosphere. 

One of their friends sitting across from them perked up, leaning toward the window. “Wait — what’s going on outside?” they asked, eyebrows furrowed in confusion. 

Liz stood up slightly, peering over. “Oh my god,” she gasped, “It’s Jeong-Do and Yujin!” 

Wonyoung’s heart stopped. Panic washed over her, and she immediately got up, stumbling slightly as she tried to reach the door, her friends right behind her. Outside, the chilly night air hit her face, but it did nothing to cool the heat of fear rising in her chest. 

The scene was chaotic — Yujin was there, blood smeared across his face, his knuckles raw. His breathing was ragged, his eyes wild with fury as he stood over Jeong-Do, who was on the ground, groaning in pain. Yujin wasn’t backing down, despite the odds of being outnumbered. Two of Jeong-Do’s friends tried to intervene, but Yujin shoved them off, taking a few hits to the face in the process. He looked unrecognizable — this was not the easygoing, carefree Yujin she knew. His face twisted in a mixture of rage and desperation, his fists clenched as though he was ready to go again. 

“Yujin!” Liz called out, her voice strained with worry. 

Wonyoung’s feet were frozen, her breath stuck in her throat. The sight of him — bloody, furious, violent — was unlike anything she’d ever seen. It felt like time slowed down, her mind unable to process the chaos unfolding before her. She watched, paralyzed, as Yujin stood over Jeong-Do, looking like he wanted to destroy him. Yujin cursed loudly, his voice shaking with anger as he shouted down at Jeong-Do, who weakly tried to get up. 

Wonyoung’s hands trembled. What had happened? Why was Yujin like this? 

Her classmates and a few others were already rushing forward, trying to separate them, pulling Yujin away from Jeong-Do. But Yujin struggled against their grip, his eyes blazing with anger, still trying to lunge at Jeong-Do. His curses were venomous, filled with an intensity Wonyoung had never heard from him before. 

"Yujin, stop!" someone yelled, but he wasn’t listening. It was like he was lost in his fury, unwilling to let Jeong-Do off the hook. 

Wonyoung’s knees felt weak, a cold sweat breaking out on her skin. And Yujin, the Yujin she thought she knew, looked like he was barely holding himself together. 

“What… what happened?” Wonyoung whispered, her voice trembling. She wanted to run to Yujin, to pull him back, but her legs wouldn’t move. Fear gripped her tighter than anything else, paralyzing her in place. 

More people started to intervene, prying Yujin away, trying to calm him down. But Wonyoung could still see it — the pain, the rage, the betrayal etched onto his face. And in that moment, everything felt wrong. She had never seen him like this, never thought Yujin could be capable of such violence. And it scared her.

The tension in the air was thick as a few of the guys managed to separate Yujin and Jeong-Do, forcing space between them. Yujin was breathing hard, his face bruised and smeared with blood, while Jeong-Do sat on the ground, clutching his side, pretending to be in more pain than he really was. 

Wonyoung, still shaken, finally found her voice. "What...what's going on? What happened?" she asked, her gaze darting between the two of them, her voice trembling with both confusion and fear. 

Before Yujin could respond, Jeong-Do jumped in, sounding hurt and aggrieved. “Yujin just jumped on me for no reason,” he said, raising his hand to his forehead as if the entire situation was absurd. “I was outside with some friends, and he came at me, accusing me of—” he stopped, glancing at Wonyoung before continuing with a calculated sigh, “—accusing me of being with you. Saying you were his or something, he is crazy.” 

Yujin’s eyes widened in disbelief. “What the hell are you talking about?!” he shouted, trying to break free from the grip of the guys holding him back. “You’re lying!” 

Wonyoung looked between them, utterly lost. Jeong-Do kept going, playing the part of the wronged victim. “I don’t know what’s going on in his head, Wonyoung,” he said, shaking his head like he couldn’t believe it himself. “I’ve been nothing but respectful to you. We’ve been classmates for years, you know that. I’d never do anything to hurt you. But him? He’s jealous because we’re close. He’s unstable, immature, and I guess he couldn’t handle it.” 

She blinked, trying to process what he was saying. It made sense, in a way — Jeong-Do had always been good to her, friendly, respectful. She’d known him for almost four school years now, they were classmates. Meanwhile, Yujin was newer in her life, someone she’d only known for a couple of months. Was Yujin really the kind of person to attack someone out of jealousy? Had he gotten possessive over her? 

Her heart pounded as she looked at Yujin. “Yujin… what’s going on?” she asked, her voice small, torn between trusting what she knew and what she felt. 

Yujin’s face twisted in frustration, his eyes pleading with her to believe him. “Wonyoung, Jeong-Do’s lying. He — he was going to—” Yujin’s voice caught, struggling to find the words. He was still being restrained, and his chest heaved with desperation. “He’s not what you think he is. He’s dangerous.” 

But Wonyoung’s mind was spinning. She had never seen Yujin like this — so angry, so out of control. And Jeong-Do’s words echoed in her head: unstable, immature, jealous. Was Yujin really capable of violence like this? Was he… claiming her as his? 

Jeong-Do, seeing her hesitation, played his part perfectly. “I don’t know what’s going on with him, but I’m worried for you, Wonyoung,” he said softly, still nursing his supposed injuries. “He’s obsessed. He’s acting like you’re his girlfriend. I don’t want you to get hurt.” 

The conflicting emotions swirled inside her. She didn’t know who to believe. She had never seen Yujin act like this, but at the same time, Jeong-Do was always a good student at school. She bit her lip, trying to make sense of the chaos around her, feeling both scared and confused.  

The scene was thick with tension. Yujin stood there, still panting from the fight, while Wonyoung’s gaze bore into him. She looked confused, scared, and hurt — all emotions he never wanted to see directed at him. His mind raced, replaying what he overheard from Jeong-Do just moments ago. The vile plans Jeong-Do had for Wonyoung were disgusting, but Yujin froze. How could he say that in front of everyone? How could he humiliate Wonyoung like that by revealing the awful truth out loud? 

"Wonyoung, please... it's not what you think," Yujin stammered, his voice quieter now, struggling to find the right words. His fists clenched, but it wasn't anger — it was fear. Fear of hurting her more, fear of being misunderstood. "Jeong-Do... he’s dangerous. He’s not who you think he is." 

Wonyoung waited for him to explain, her eyes wide with expectation. “Then what happened, Yujin? What did he do? Please tell me…” Her voice was laced with confusion, and as the seconds ticked by and Yujin hesitated, her patience began to wear thin. 

Yujin couldn’t speak. His throat tightened as he glanced around at all the eyes on him. If he told the truth — that Jeong-Do was planning to drug her and take advantage of her — it would humiliate her. It would destroy her sense of safety, not just here but in their school. Saying it out loud in front of her friends, classmates, and even strangers? It would break her. He couldn’t do that to her. He couldn’t put her through that kind of shame. 

But his silence was damning. 

Wonyoung’s brows furrowed as the silence stretched on. “Yujin... tell me what happened,” she pressed, though her voice wavered, doubt creeping into her mind. And then she heard Jeong-Do’s voice from earlier, calm and rational, echoing in her head. “He’s jealous. He’s unstable. He’s immature.” 

She exhaled sharply, her shoulders sagging as realization hit her. "Maybe... maybe Jeong-Do was right," she said quietly, the words stinging as they left her mouth. “I really don’t know you, Yujin. Not really.” 

The words hit Yujin like a punch to the gut. His whole body deflated, and for a moment, he felt like he couldn’t breathe. His face paling as he heard her say it. His worst fear was coming true right in front of him. Wonyoung’s eyes, which once looked at him with curiosity and warmth, now held suspicion and uncertainty. 

“You’ve been acting nice, always trying to help me,” she continued, her voice growing more certain. “But... maybe that’s just because you want something from me. You’ve always put your best foot forward, and I thought you were just a good guy. But I’ve been classmates with Jeong-Do for four years, Yujin. Four years. I’ve never seen him violent or heard anything bad about him.” 

Yujin’s breath caught in his throat. He wanted to scream, to tell her how wrong she was. He didn’t want anything from her, not in the way Jeong-Do was making it seem. He cared about her — deeply. But how could he prove that now, when her trust in him was already slipping away? 

Just then, the sound of sirens cut through the night air, and two police officers approached the scene, eyeing the crowd and the battered boys on the ground. One of the officers stepped forward. "What’s going on here?" 

Jeong-Do, ever the manipulator, wasted no time. “That guy,” he said, pointing directly at Yujin. “He’s the one who attacked me. He jumped me for no reason. Please take him, officer.”

Yujin’s eyes widened in disbelief. “That’s a lie!” he shouted, his voice cracking with frustration. “He’s lying!” 

But the officers weren’t listening to him — they were already starting to move toward Yujin. One officer reached for his handcuffs, while the other gestured for Yujin to step back. "Sir, please calm down." 

“Wonyoung!” Yujin called out desperately, his voice breaking as he pleaded for her to believe him. “Please, you have to believe me! I’m telling the truth — Jeong-Do is lying. He’s dangerous. You have to get away from him!” 

But Wonyoung hesitated, her eyes flickering between Yujin and Jeong-Do. Her heart ached as she watched the raw desperation on Yujin’s face. He looked hurt, betrayed, but his actions tonight were so out of character. It was true — she didn’t really know him. Not like she knew Jeong-Do. And now Yujin was being violent, and there was this unspoken possessiveness in his words. 

And in that moment, Yujin felt crushed, the weight of Wonyoung’s words heavier than any blow he had taken that night. 

***

As they returned inside the bar, Wonyoung’s mind was racing. She felt partly responsible for what happened to Yujin, and the thought of him spending the night in jail gnawed at her. She quickly began messaging her boss, explaining the situation and hoping there was some way to help. Jeong-Do, sitting beside her, noticed her anxiety and tried to brush it off. 

“Forget about Yujin,” Jeong-Do said, leaning in a little too close. “He’s unstable and weird. Don’t let him ruin Liz’s party. Have a drink, relax.” 

Wonyoung hesitated but accepted the drink to keep him from pressing further. They sat down at a table, and Jeong-Do continued to make small talk, but the more moments passed, the more her head began to swim. She blinked, trying to focus, but the world around her started to blur. She scanned the room for her friends — Liz was busy dancing on the floor, oblivious, and Giselle was nowhere to be found. The dizzying haze made it hard to think, but Wonyoung knew something was wrong. 

Jeong-Do leaned in even closer, whispering in her ear, “You’re so beautiful, Wonyoung.” His words made her skin crawl. His hand grazed her leg, sending a shiver of discomfort through her. Wonyoung’s breath hitched, the unwanted touch setting off alarm bells in her mind. She tried to push his hand away, but her arms felt weak, and she could barely move. 

Everything felt wrong. His face was too close, his touch wa invasive. Wonyoung’s panic started to rise as Jeong-Do took her hand and began pulling her toward a secluded corner of the bar. Her vision was spinning, and the fear was overwhelming — this wasn’t how she envisioned any of this. She felt powerless, like her body was betraying her. 

As Jeong-Do whispered things she couldn’t make out, Wonyoung’s heart pounded with dread. She didn’t want this — this wasn’t how it was supposed to be. The corners of her vision darkened, and just before the fear completely consumed her, she thought of Yujin. His protective presence, how he tried to warn her, how right he had been all along. She wished desperately that he was here, that he could stop what was happening, that she had listened to him. 

Tears pricked her eyes as she realized just how close she was to a nightmare, her body limp in Jeong-Do’s hands. 

Jeong-Do leaned in, his breath hot against Wonyoung's face as she weakly pushed him away, her strength fading as the dizziness overtook her. Her vision blurred, and tears streamed down her cheeks as she tried to scream, but the sound came out small and desperate. 

"Help... please," she whispered, her voice barely audible as Jeong-Do chuckled darkly. 

"No one's going to hear you, you fucking bitch," he sneered. "They're all too busy partying inside." He pulled out his phone, setting it up on a nearby surface, angling it to capture everything. Wonyoung's heart pounded in her chest, panic rising as Jeong-Do moved closer, his hands started unzipping her dress behind. 

Just as she felt her world collapsing, a shadow suddenly loomed over them. Before Jeong-Do could react, he was yanked backward with a violent force. Wonyoung, dazed and barely conscious, saw a blur of movement, a tall figure in a hoodie delivering brutal punches to Jeong-Do. She blinked, trying to make out who it was, her thoughts swimming through the haze of dizziness. 

Jeong-Do screamed in pain as the hooded figure relentlessly attacked him, each punch fueled by unbridled anger. 

Wonyoung felt her knees buckle, and as she was about to collapse, someone grabbed her, gently pulling her away from the chaos. She looked up, vision clearing just enough to see Giselle's concerned face. Behind her stood another figure — Ji-Young, Yujin’s mother, her expression tight with urgency. 

Her mind whirled as the pieces fell into place. It was Yujin. He was the one fighting Jeong-Do, the one who had come to save her. His hoodie, the same one she'd seen him wearing earlier, was unmistakable as he continued to land blows on Jeong-Do. 

Suddenly, police officers burst onto the scene, pulling Yujin away from Jeong-Do, who was now groaning on the ground, bloodied and beaten. Yujin resisted at first, his fury still palpable, but as soon as the officers got control, he let them pull him back, his eyes never leaving Jeong-Do, his chest heaving with rage. 

Wonyoung's vision darkened, the last thing she saw before she lost consciousness was Yujin's face — bruised and tired but filled with an unwavering intensity.

Chapter Text

Wonyoung slowly blinked her eyes open, the harsh white lights of the hospital room coming into focus. Her body felt heavy, her head clouded, and as she shifted slightly, she realized something was wrong. She turned her head to the side and saw her mother, Yunmi, and her father, Yool-ho sitting next to her bed, with eyes red and swollen from crying. 

"Mom?" Wonyoung's voice was weak, barely a whisper. "Where am I?" 

Yunmi immediately sat up, tears brimming in her eyes again as she reached for Wonyoung's hand. "You're in the hospital, honey," she said softly, her voice trembling with emotion. "You were drugged last night... They brought you here. Yujin, Mrs. An, and Giselle found you in time." 

Wonyoung’s brows furrowed as she tried to piece together the fragments of the night before. Everything felt blurry, disjointed. “Drugged?” she repeated, her voice shaky. “Where... where are they? Yujin, Mrs. An, and Giselle?”

“I will kill those assholes!” Yool-ho firmly said, pacing around in the room. 

Yunmi squeezed her hand, her grip tightening. "They brought you here," she explained, her voice thick with worry. "They called me, and I came as soon as I could. I’ve been so worried... I thought—" She broke off, shaking her head, wiping away the tears that had fallen. "I'm just glad you're okay." 

“I’m sorry, Mom,” Wonyoung whispered, guilt welling up in her chest. “I didn’t mean to scare you.” 

Just then, the door to the room opened, and Ji-Young, stepped inside. She looked relieved but serious, her eyes scanning Wonyoung before she spoke. “You’re awake,” Ji-Young said gently, approaching the bed. “How are you feeling?” 

Wonyoung swallowed, her throat dry. “I... What... what happened last night?” 

Ji-Young exchanged a glance with Yunmi before sitting down on the other side of the bed. “There was an incident at the party,” she began cautiously. “Jeong-Do... he put something in your drink. Yujin overheard his plans — he stopped him before anything worse could happen.” 

Wonyoung’s breath caught in her throat, her heart racing as flashes of the night before came back to her — Jeong-Do’s unwelcome touches, his whispers, the way her body felt so heavy and out of her control. She shuddered, her stomach turning at the memory. 

"Yujin... stopped him?" she repeated in disbelief, her mind struggling to process everything. 

Ji-Young nodded, her face tense. “Yujin fought him. There was a commotion, and... he’s alright, don’t worry. But the police got involved, and Jeong-Do is in custody.” 

Wonyoung felt a mixture of emotions — relief that Yujin was there, but also shame and fear. She hadn’t realized how much danger she had been in, how close she came to something far worse. 

Ji-Young leaned closer, her voice soft but serious. “Do you remember anything? What he tried to do?” 

Wonyoung hesitated, her fingers trembling as she squeezed her mother’s hand for support. “I remember him... trying to kiss me,” she said quietly, her voice shaking. “I was so dizzy. I tried to push him away... but everything went black after that.” 

Ji-Young reached out, gently touching Wonyoung’s arm. “It’s okay. You’re safe now,” she reassured her. 

Wonyoung closed her eyes briefly, trying to steady herself. "I want to see Yujin," she finally said. 

***

Yujin stood stiffly in front of his father, An Woo-bin, trying to maintain his composure. His knuckles were bruised, his face still a little swollen from the punches he had taken, and a part of him expected a full-on scolding — or worse, a serious reprimand. His eyes flicked nervously between his father and mother, waiting for the inevitable.

But Woo-bin, seated calmly at his desk, leaned forward with a serious expression. "Did you hit back properly?"

Yujin blinked, startled by the question. "Uh, yeah," he stammered at first, but then his pride kicked in. "I mean, yes, I did. I might look a little beaten up, but the other guys — Jeong-Do and his friends — they had it much worse," Yujin added, a small smirk playing on his lips. 

Woo-bin raised an eyebrow, his usual stern demeanor softening. "And the girl?"

Before Yujin could answer, Ji-Young, his mother, who had been standing nearby with her arms crossed, chimed in. "Yes, honey, Wonyoung is fine. She's safe," she reassured Woo-bin. 

Woo-bin nodded, satisfied, and suddenly extended his hand toward Yujin with a grin. "That's my boy," he said proudly, offering Yujin a high five. 

Relief washed over Yujin, and he couldn’t help but smile proudly as he slapped his father's hand. It was a small victory, and for a moment, it felt like he had his father's approval. Buoyed by the good mood, Yujin decided to push his luck a little. "So... does that mean I can get my allowance back?" he asked, raising an eyebrow with a hopeful grin. 

But Woo-bin's expression immediately hardened again. "No chance," he said firmly, shutting down the request without hesitation. "You still need to learn a lesson. Now, go finish your shift at the café. You've got a lot more walking to do." 

***

A few days had passed since the hospital, and Wonyoung had fully recovered, though the memories of that night still weighed on her. She had been thinking about everything — Jeong-Do’s betrayal, the way Yujin had fought for her, and how she had doubted him in front of everyone. Wonyoung's hand tightened around the handle of the lunchbox her mother had packed for Yujin, feeling a mix of nerves and gratitude. She was heading to his dorm, wanting to make things right. 

Mrs. An, Yujin’s mother, had filled in the details for her during one of their hospital visits. Ji-Young had acted fast, using her connections to get Yujin out of the police station. But what stood out most to Wonyoung was hearing how Yujin had refused to go home that night. How Yujin had refused medical care for his bruises. Despite the cuts and injuries from the fight, he had insisted on going back to the bar right away, not wanting to leave Wonyoung’s safety in anyone else’s hands. He told his mother everything he'd overheard. That image of him fighting to protect her, despite everything, played over in her mind repeatedly. And Ji-Young who cares about Wonyoung deeply wanted to make sure she’s also safe.

She also recalled what happened after the chaotic night at the bar. Liz, devastated by the events, had cried and apologized profusely to her for pushing her toward someone as awful as Jeong-Do. Liz had been completely blindsided by his actions, and she felt deeply guilty for her role in everything. Meanwhile, Giselle had insisted on going to the police station with Yujin. She had felt something was off with Jeong-Do even before everything unfolded, and she couldn’t stand the idea of Yujin being blamed for something he didn’t do. Giselle had worked with Yujin to clear up the confusion, ensuring that the truth came to light. Giselle also apologized to Wonyoung for not seeing Jeong-Do's true nature sooner. 

Wonyoung remembered Ji-Young’s voice in the hospital, calm but probing, when she had asked, “What are your plans now, Wonyoung?” 

She had been clear. "I want to make Jeong-Do pay. If I back down now, it defeats everything I've studied for. I want justice — for me, for Yujin." 

Her resolve was strong, but there was one thing still gnawing at her. She hadn’t heard from Yujin since that night. She had sent him a few messages once she returned home to rest, but he hadn’t replied. The school had given her a break while they conducted their own investigation, afraid to be on the wrong side of a case involving someone like An Ji-Young. And her mother had insisted that she invite Yujin over soon. "I want to properly thank him for saving you," her mother had said. 

And so here Wonyoung was, walking with purpose toward his room, carrying the lunch her mother had made as a gesture of gratitude — and a peace offering. But more than that, Wonyoung wanted to apologize for not believing Yujin. The guilt had been eating at her ever since the night at the bar. She had stood there, doubting him when he was the only one who knew what was really happening. 

She stood in front of Yujin's dorm, her heart racing as she hesitated for a moment. Gathering her courage, she knocked on the door. A few seconds later, it creaked open, revealing Yujin. He stood there, his face covered with band-aids, dark bruises visible along his cheekbone and jaw, and a busted lip. His usual carefree demeanor seemed subdued, and the sight of him in this state hit Wonyoung like a punch to the chest. She felt a surge of guilt as she remembered how she hadn’t believed him. 

Yujin blinked in surprise, his eyes widening when he saw her. "Wonyoung? What are you doing here?" 

Wonyoung’s gaze flickered over his injuries, the weight of her guilt growing heavier. "Can I... come in?" 

Yujin seemed taken aback for a moment, but then he stepped aside, opening the door wider for her. “Uh, sure.” 

As they stepped into Yujin’s room, Wonyoung watched him quickly scramble to clean up. He frantically shoved the scattered clothes on his bed into a laundry basket and glanced around nervously. Yujin, clearly flustered, gestured toward his gaming chair. "You can sit here," he said, offering her the only proper seat in the room. He awkwardly settled on the edge of his bed, suddenly conscious of how small the space felt with Wonyoung in it. 

Wonyoung sat down, feeling the strange. Her eyes drifted to the desk, where several books were spread open. She tilted her head, surprised. "Were you reading?" 

Yujin glanced at the desk and shrugged casually. "Yeah, just some stuff for class. You know, trying to catch up." 

Wonyoung’s frown deepened as she noticed the clock — it was already past one in the afternoon. "Have you eaten lunch yet?"

Yujin hesitated before shaking his head. "No, not yet. I didn’t really notice the time. I wanted to finish reading first." 

A small smile tugged at the corners of Wonyoung’s lips. She couldn’t help but feel a bit proud of him — he had been so immersed in studying that he’d forgotten to eat. "Well, it’s a good thing I brought something," she said, reaching into the bag she had brought with her. "It’s from my mom. She wanted to thank you… for everything." 

Yujin blinked, a little caught off guard. He scratched the back of his head awkwardly. "Oh. Um, thank you. I… I only met her briefly, but she seemed really nice." 

Wonyoung gave a small nod. "She also said she’d like to meet you properly, when you have time." 

Yujin looked down, his lips curving into a faint, almost shy smile. "I’d like that." Then, after a brief pause, he glanced around the room. "But I don’t have any plates in here," he said sheepishly, his tone almost apologetic. "Wait, I’ll grab some utensils from the cafeteria. I’ll be right back." 

***

When Yujin came back, balancing plates, utensils, and a borrowed portable table, he was surprised to see his room much tidier than he’d left it. Wonyoung had straightened up while he was gone, and the once cluttered space now looked somewhat organized. 

Wonyoung smiled awkwardly as he stepped in. "I, um… couldn’t help myself," she said, gesturing to the now - clean area. "I hope it’s okay. I just thought I’d clean some stuff up."

Yujin blinked, then immediately shook his head, a bit embarrassed. "I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have let you do that," he said, setting the table down. 

"It’s okay, really." 

They sat down on the floor, Yujin setting out the plates while Wonyoung unpacked the lunch her mother had prepared. The scent of homemade food filled the room, and for a moment, they ate in comfortable silence. But Wonyoung couldn’t ignore the weight on her chest any longer. She put down her chopsticks, hesitating before speaking. 

"Yujin," she started softly, her voice wavering slightly, "I’m… I’m sorry." Wonyoung took a deep breath. "For not believing you. For doubting you when you tried to warn me about Jeong-Do. And… thank you. For saving my life." She paused, the words catching in her throat as she imagined what could’ve happened. Her eyes dropped to the floor as a wave of emotion surged through her. "If it weren’t for you, I—" She stopped again, choking on the thought. "I could’ve been in a situation I might never recover from." 

Yujin shifted closer to her, his face softening. He could see the guilt weighing on her, and it hurt him to see her like that. "Hey," he said quietly, his voice gentle. "It’s okay. You’re safe, that’s what matters." 

Wonyoung glanced up, her eyes brimming with regret and sadness. "But still…" 

Yujin shook his head, offering her a reassuring smile. "You had a point, though. We don’t really know each other that well. It made sense for you to doubt me." 

Wonyoung’s face fell a little. She hated that it was true, but it didn’t make her feel any better. "But—" 

"No," Yujin interrupted, his voice firmer now but still kind. "Don’t beat yourself up about it. It’s really okay, Wonyoung. I’m glad that you are safe." 

"Why haven’t you been replying to my messages?" she asked quietly, cutting straight to what had been bothering her. 

Yujin looked caught off guard. He shifted uncomfortably, rubbing the back of his neck, eyes avoiding hers. "I... I thought maybe you didn’t want to talk to me anymore." 

"What? Why would you think that?" 

He glanced at her, then back at the floor, his voice low. "After what happened at the bar, I thought you were mad. I thought maybe... you didn’t want anything to do with me. I just came back because I knew you were in danger but I was prepared to distant myself after I made sure you were safe." 

Wonyoung felt a pang of guilt. She scooted closer, shaking her head. "Yujin, of course not. I mean... I felt bad about what happened, but I never thought of cutting you off. If anything, I’ve been trying to reach out because I was worried. I’m here to apologize for that. I should’ve believed you. I was wrong to doubt you, and I’ve felt awful about it ever since."  

Yujin finally met her eyes, his face softening. "You don’t need to apologize.”

She took a deep breath. "If anything, you’re the only person I feel like I can trust right now. You saved me, Yujin. I was so wrong about Jeong-Do, and you were the one telling the truth. I should have trusted you from the start." 

“I’ll always be there for you. No matter what happens. I’ll save you from anything.” 

The way he said it, with such sincerity, made something in her chest ache. His forgiveness was so easy, and yet she couldn’t shake the guilt. But as she looked at Yujin, sitting there with his bruised face, so calm and understanding, it made her feel a little better.  There's a comfort she feels now that wasn't there before.

Yujin smiled softly, reaching for his chopsticks again. "Let’s eat before it gets cold," he said lightly, trying to ease the tension. 

***

As they finished eating, Yujin absentmindedly ran his tongue over his lip, only to taste the faint, metallic tang of blood. He winced slightly, realizing his wound had opened up again. Wonyoung noticed right away, her eyes immediately darting to his split lip. 

“Hold on,” she said quickly, rummaging through her bag. She pulled out a tissue and dabbed at his lip, her touch gentle but firm. Then, glancing at his bruised face, she asked, “Do you have a medicine kit?” 

Yujin nodded, pointing towards the small bathroom in his dorm. “Yeah, it’s in there.” 

Wonyoung stood up, grabbed the kit, and returned, sitting directly in front of Yujin. As she opened the kit and started tending to his wound, Yujin found himself suddenly very aware of how close she was. Her face was mere inches from his, and he could feel the warmth of her breath against his skin. He swallowed hard, his heart beating faster with every passing second. 

Desperately trying to keep calm, Yujin stared straight ahead, avoiding Wonyoung’s gaze as his pulse raced. The closeness made him feel flustered, heat rising in his cheeks despite the coolness of the antiseptic she was applying. He held his breath, afraid to move, as if the slightest shift would make the situation even more intense. 

Wonyoung, focused on cleaning the wound, noticed the tension in Yujin’s posture. But as she continued to tend to his other bruises, her own thoughts began to drift. Her eyes moved from the cut on his lip to the rest of his face — his skin was surprisingly smooth despite the bruises. She found herself studying the little details: the soft arch of his thick brows, the almond shape of his eyes, and his sharp nose.

Then her gaze settled on his lips. 

She paused, almost absentmindedly, realizing just how soft and delicate his lips looked, despite the cut. They had a slight curve, almost like… Cinnamoroll? She stifled a small laugh at the odd thought but couldn’t shake how unexpectedly cute she found them. There was something endearing about the contrast between his rough exterior and the softness of his features. 

Yujin, meanwhile, was trying his best to keep his cool, unaware of Wonyoung’s thoughts. He could feel the heat of her closeness, his heartbeat quickening, and the silence between them seemed to grow heavier with every second. 

Wonyoung’s fingers gently traced Yujin’s lips, her gaze lifting to meet his eyes, only to find him staring back at her with an intensity that sent a wave of heat through her. Her lips parted slightly, her heart racing, faster than she could comprehend. It felt like time had slowed down, her breath caught in her chest as if the space between them was closing in, and a part of her wondered — what would his lips feel like? 

The air between them was thick, charged with an unexpected tension, until— 

Yujin’s phone buzzed loudly, shattering the moment. 

Both of them jumped, Wonyoung pulling her hand away quickly as if she’d been caught doing something she shouldn’t. Yujin frantically reached for his phone, fumbling as it slipped from his grasp and hit the floor. He picked it up with a clumsy urgency, his face flushed. 

“I-I’ll just… answer this,” Yujin stammered, his voice higher than usual, and he hurriedly retreated into the bathroom, closing the door behind him. 

Wonyoung sat back, her heart still thudding against her chest as she blinked, trying to make sense of what had just happened. She furrowed her brows, her mind racing. What was that? she wondered, replaying the strange and electric moment over and over again in her head. 

Meanwhile, on the other side of the door, Yujin leaned against the sink, his heart hammering in his chest. He squeezed his phone tightly, barely glancing at the screen as he tried to compose himself. His mind was spinning from the closeness, from how her touch had lingered on his lips. He muttered under his breath, “Fuck…” 

He couldn’t believe how close he had come to doing something reckless — something he wasn’t sure he should have wanted so badly. 

***

After eating, they walked side by side, Wonyoung felt a sense of comfort around Yujin that she hadn’t anticipated. His offer to walk her home was something she is open to now.

“I’m serious,” Yujin said, a playful grin spreading across his face. “From now on, I’ll walk you home whenever I can. Especially if you’re going home alone. And I won’t take no for an answer.” 

Wonyoung smiled at his earnestness. “Well, Yujin, you do make me feel safer now.” 

Yujin puffed out his chest a little in mock seriousness. “Good! I’ll protect you like you’re the president of Korea. No one’s getting past me!” 

They both laughed at the ridiculousness of it, the heavy air from earlier dissipating. But as they continued walking, Yujin couldn’t help but notice Wonyoung’s occasional glances into the distance, her expression pensive, as though something weighed on her mind. 

He nudged her gently. “Hey, what’s on your mind?” 

Wonyoung sighed, pausing for a moment before speaking. “I guess I just feel sad… knowing that there are people who only seem interested in me for the wrong reasons. It’s like they don’t want to know me, just… what I look like or what they can get from me.” 

Yujin stopped in his tracks, and without hesitation, he responded, “Not everyone’s like that.” 

Wonyoung turned to look at him, her eyes soft, perhaps surprised by how quickly he’d said it. For a moment, there was a shared understanding between them. “Maybe you’re right.” 

“Of course, I’m right,” Yujin said confidently, the corners of his lips quirking up into a grin. 

Wonyoung laughed lightly, appreciating his playful nature. It was as though, in that moment, they both knew who Yujin was referring to — himself. He wasn’t just talking about some hypothetical guy. He was subtly reassuring her that his intentions were genuine, that he truly cared. 

“So,” Yujin began again, after a comfortable pause, “Do you have any plans for the rest of the day?” 

She shook her head. “No, not really. I was just going to head home.” 

Yujin’s eyes lit up with an idea. “I know a place. Somewhere we can blow off some steam.” 

***

The small arcade buzzed with the sounds of clattering games and bright lights, a far cry from the heavy conversation they'd had just moments ago. Yujin led Wonyoung over to the Whac-a-Mole machine. He pointed to the alligators popping out of the machine. 

"Alright," he said, a grin tugging at his lips, "Imagine these are Jeong-Do and his stupid friends. We’re gonna smash them. Who are the other two?" 

“Sung-kyun and Seon-min," Wonyoung said. "They’re also from my school.” 

Yujin nodded with determination, smacking another alligator with force. "Alright, let’s get 'em. This one’s for Sung-kyun, this one’s for Seon-min, and Jeong-Do gets all the rest. Now, go on. Hit 'em."

Wonyoung, feeling the tension she hadn’t realized she was carrying, grabbed a mallet. Her first hit was tentative, but as she pictured the faces of Jeong-Do, Sung-kyun, and Seon-min, her strikes became more forceful. “You jerks!” she yelled as another alligator head popped up, immediately hitting it with a satisfying thud. 

Yujin cheered, smacking one right after another. "Feel the wrath of Yujinnie and Wonyoungie, you bastards!" 

The more they played, the more cathartic it became. Yujin, laughing between smacks, suddenly paused, hitting an alligator with a firm thwack. “I should’ve killed those assholes,” he muttered. Then, looking at Wonyoung, he added, “Seriously, if they ever bother you again, or anyone else, you tell me immediately.” 

Wonyoung felt a surge of warmth at his protectiveness but also guilt. She slowed her hits for a moment and said, “I’m sorry again.” 

Yujin gave her a sidelong glance, hitting another alligator’s head with a loud thump. “It’s okay. I’m used to it.” 

Wonyoung paused, her mallet hovering over the game. “Used to what?” 

He shrugged. “People doubting me. I guess I don’t really seem like the trustworthy type.” 

Wonyoung’s heart twinged at that. She stopped playing and looked at him, her expression serious. “You shouldn’t get used to that, Yujin. Words can cut deeper than you think.” 

Yujin looked over at her, the corners of his mouth softening into a warm smile. For a second, the arcade noise faded away as he looked at her in quiet appreciation. Then, with a sudden flick of his mallet, he smacked another alligator. “Besides,” he grinned, “I’m way more handsome than that fucker Jeong-Do. He looks like this damn alligator!” 

Wonyoung burst into laughter. She pointed her mallet at Yujin. “You know what? You’re right. You’re definitely more handsome than Jeong-Do.” 
 
Yujin shot her a playful wink. “Knew it. Now let’s keep beating these guys up.” 

As Wonyoung and Yujin kept whacking the alligators, her phone suddenly rang, interrupting their fun. She paused, pulling the phone from her pocket and checking the caller ID. It was Mrs. An. She quickly answered the call, stepping a little away from the game as she spoke in a low voice. 

"Hello? Yes, Mrs. An," Wonyoung listened intently, her expression slowly shifting from surprise to delight as Ji-Young explained the news. Jeong-Do and his friends would be expelled from school, and the stain on their records — especially considering the severity of drug use in Korea — would follow them for the rest of their lives. Their futures, as they knew them, were over. 

Yujin watched her from a few feet away, still holding his mallet, eyebrows raised in curiosity. He could see her smile growing wider with every second of the conversation. 

When Wonyoung hung up, she turned to him with a gleeful expression. “That was your mom,” she said, her voice bright with excitement. “Jeong-Do and his friends are going to be expelled! And they will go to jail!” 

Yujin’s face lit up, his usual playful grin returning. “Really? So our wrath worked!” 

Wonyoung laughed, her happiness bubbling over. Without thinking, she rushed over and hugged Yujin tightly, throwing her arms around his neck and pulling him close. The move was so sudden and unexpected that it caught Yujin completely off guard. He stood there, stunned, his body stiff for a moment as his brain scrambled to catch up with what was happening. 

Wonyoung’s warm embrace felt comforting and natural, her face pressed against his neck. Yujin’s heart raced, pounding in his chest like a drum. His hands hesitated at his sides, unsure of what to do. He wanted to hug her back, to let his hands rest on her back and hold her close, but a part of him was afraid — afraid of crossing a line, of misinterpreting the moment. 

His arms twitched slightly as if they wanted to move, but instead, he kept them hovering awkwardly by his sides, his breath caught in his throat. He felt the heat of her body against his, the softness of her hair brushing his cheek, and it was almost overwhelming. 

Wonyoung didn’t seem to notice his hesitation, though. She was too caught up in the excitement of the moment. “We did it, Yujin! We really did it,” she whispered, still holding him close. 

Yujin finally exhaled, managing a shaky laugh as he whispered back, “It was all you.”

For a moment, the world around them seemed to blur, leaving just the two of them in this quiet, intense moment of closeness. Yujin couldn’t believe this was happening — Wonyoung, the girl he’d been crushing on, was in his arms, hugging him so tightly that he could feel her heartbeat against his chest. It felt surreal, and yet so incredibly real at the same time. 

Just as he was about to finally, tentatively raise his arms, Wonyoung pulled back, smiling at him with those beautiful eyes that made his heart flip. The warmth of her touch lingered on his skin even after the hug was over, leaving Yujin standing there, dazed but smiling like an idiot. 

Chapter Text

As Wonyoung led the way to her dorm, the two of them carried bags of takeout and drinks, ready to celebrate after the rollercoaster of events they had just been through. The evening was quieter now, the sun long gone and the cool  breeze brushing past them. When they reached her dorm building, Wonyoung looked around cautiously. 

“The landlord isn’t around, so we have to be quick,” she whispered, her eyes gleaming with mischief. 

Yujin hesitated just outside the entrance. "Are you sure this is a good idea?" 

Wonyoung rolled her eyes playfully and gave him a gentle push toward the door. "It’s fine, come on. Giselle and Liz will be here soon. We also texted Seulwoo." 

Yujin still looked uncertain, keeping his hoodie pulled tightly over his head. "I don’t know, Wonyoung. A guy sneaking into a girls' dorm at night? It just doesn’t look good." 

Wonyoung stopped in her tracks and turned to face him, raising an eyebrow. "You do realize I was just in your room earlier today, right?" 

Yujin scratched the back of his head awkwardly. "Yeah, but that was during the day. And this… this is night. Feels different." 

Wonyoung crossed her arms, a smirk forming on her lips. "So? We’re just eating takeout and waiting for the others. You’re overthinking this, since when do you have a malicious mind?" 

He sighed, looking at the darkened hallway beyond the entrance. "I don’t want people getting the wrong idea." 

Wonyoung gave him a teasing smile. "Yujin, seriously, we’re just hanging out. Plus, no one’s going to see you sneaking in anyway. You’re like a ghost in that hoodie." 

***

In Wonyoung’s dorm room. They had to sneak into her room so the other tenants won’t see Yujin. They sat on the floor, surrounded by takeout boxes and a couple of half-empty cans of beer. They had been waiting for Liz and Giselle, but neither of them had replied, and their absence stretched late into the night. Wonyoung sighed, but with Yujin there, the evening didn’t feel too bad. 

“You know," Wonyoung started, taking a sip from her can, "I was thinking... maybe you need a tutor or something. You’ve been saying how hard your classes are.” 

“A tutor, huh? You think I really need one?” 

Wonyoung nodded. "Yeah, if you’re struggling, it might help. I mean, you don’t want your grades to keep dropping, right?" 

Yujin leaned back, considering her words. “Yeah, I guess you’re right. Maybe I’ll look for a tutor in my class then. Someone smart.” 

She smiled, pleased that he was taking it seriously. "Good idea." 

He then glanced at her, tilting his head a little. "But are you okay with drinking again? After everything that happened?" 

"Yeah. I don’t want to associate drinking with that bad memory. Besides," she looked at Yujin with a small, appreciative smile, "you’re here. Remember what you said? You’d protect me like I’m the president of Korea?" She paused, her voice more sincere now. "I trust you. You saved my life, Yujin. And my friends will be here soon." 

Yujin blinked, momentarily taken aback by the depth in her voice. His face softened as he realized the weight of her trust in him. But then, with a grin and his playful nature kicking in, he switched to his teasing mode. “Of course, I’ll guard your life, Wonyoung. No one’s going to mess with you while I’m around.” 

Wonyoung smirked, taking another sip before setting her can down. "How long are you going to protect me then?" 

Yujin, without missing a beat, puffed out his chest dramatically, a proud grin spreading across his face. "Forever," he declared, then flashed her a wide grin, his cheeks flushing slightly — whether from the alcohol or his bold statement, she couldn’t tell. 

She chuckled at his enthusiasm, the corners of her lips turning up as she looked at him. There was something so adorably genuine about Yujin at that moment, the way his cheeks were tinted red, and his grin was so wide and confident. He was dorky and teasing, but somehow, right then, Wonyoung found him... so adorable as she always did.

***

As they continued to drink, Wonyoung's eyelids grew heavy, and Yujin noticed her struggling to stay awake. She seemed to be drifting off, her head swaying slightly, and just as she leaned backward, the edge of the bed was too far for her to rest on. Yujin, reacting quickly, reached out with his hand, catching her head just before it fell. 

“Wonyoung?” he whispered, gently nudging her to see if she was still awake. But there was no response. She had fallen asleep.

Carefully, Yujin shifted her weight and, with as much care as he could muster, he lifted her up. Though dizzy himself, he made sure to place her gently on the bed, adjusting her position and tucking her in with a blanket. He stood there for a moment, looking down at her sleeping figure, feeling a sense of protectiveness wash over him. 

Despite his own dizziness, Yujin dragged himself to tidy up the scattered food and drinks, his movements were sluggish but determined to clean the room. He couldn’t just leave the place a mess. After fixing things as best as he could, he then lay down on the floor, exhaustion hitting him all at once. His head swirled slightly, but he kept his focus on making sure Wonyoung was comfortable before closing his eyes. 

***

The next morning, Wonyoung stirred as sunlight filtered into the room, blinking her eyes open. She turned her head and spotted Yujin curled up on the floor, his hoodie pulled over his head, using it as a pillow for support. He looked peaceful, but the sight of him sleeping on the hard floor made her feel a bit guilty. 

Wonyoung nudged him lightly. "Yujin," she said softly. He groaned, slowly coming to, eyes squinting as he stirred. "Go sleep on my bed, it’s more comfortable."

Still half-asleep, Yujin rubbed his eyes. "I’m fine," he mumbled. Wonyoung stood, stretching, and said, “I’m going to grab some water.” 

She quietly exited the room, and as soon as she stepped into the small living room, she saw Giselle, Liz, and Seulwoo sitting around the table, sipping coffee. They all looked up at her, immediately noticing she had just woken up too. Giselle and Liz exchanged glances before Liz asked, “We just came home from the club. So... did you and Yujin celebrate without us?” 

Wonyoung blinked, caught off guard by the question. Before she could answer, the door behind her creaked open, and Yujin stepped out, his hair a complete mess and his hoodie still half-zipped. He was clearly just waking up, rubbing his face and looking completely out of it. 

Liz, mid-sip, choked on her coffee, eyes widening. Seulwoo smirked, raising an eyebrow. “Oh, so you celebrated privately, huh?” 

Wonyoung immediately felt the heat rise to her cheeks, realizing how the situation must have looked. “No, no! It’s not like that!” she waved her hands, panicking. “Nothing happened! We were just— he slept on the floor!” Her voice was flustered, but the more she tried to explain, the more it seemed to fuel their suspicions. 

Giselle raised an eyebrow. “Uh-huh.” 

Yujin, still half-asleep and completely oblivious to the conversation, let out a big yawn, scratching his head as he mumbled, “What’s going on?” 

***

After Seulwoo and Yujin left together, and Liz disappeared into her room to catch up on sleep, Giselle and Wonyoung remained in the living room, sipping their morning coffee in the quiet aftermath of the unexpected wake-up. 

Giselle glanced at Wonyoung, breaking the silence. "You know... it’s been what? A couple of months? Since Yujin’s kind of been courting you," she said casually. “Do you really not feel anything for him?” 

Wonyoung looked up from her coffee, slightly taken aback by the question. “What? No, it’s not like that. I mean...” she trailed off, unsure how to respond. 

Giselle leaned forward, resting her chin on her palm. “Is it because he’s younger than you? Or is it how he dresses? You know, with the hoodies and cargo pants. Are you embarrassed?” 

Wonyoung’s eyebrows furrowed as she shook her head. “Of course not! That’s not it at all,” she replied firmly. “Yujin just... feels young, you know? That’s all.” 

Giselle rolled her eyes playfully. “Young? He’s only two years younger. Why are you acting like you’re forty?” she teased, leaning back in her chair. “Seriously, though, you don’t feel anything for him? Like, zero?” 

Wonyoung paused, the question hanging in the air as she sipped her coffee. Her mind drifted to all the moments she had spent with Yujin — the way he made her laugh, how he always tried to cheer her up, and how persistent yet sweet he was in his own dorky way. She remembered the times he looked out for her, the small thoughtful gestures, and his genuine kindness. She cared about him, and yes, she did find him adorable and endearing sometimes... but was it more than that? 

“I... don’t know,” Wonyoung said quietly, more to herself than to Giselle. “He’s nice. Really nice. But I just don’t see myself in a relationship with him.” 

Giselle raised an eyebrow, clearly not convinced. “Poor Yujin,” she sighed dramatically. “I thought for sure you liked him. Guess I was wrong.” 

Wonyoung bit her lip, unsure how to feel. She did care about Yujin, but was it in the way Giselle was implying? The thought lingered in her mind as they continued talking, but no matter how hard she tried, she couldn’t shake the feeling that maybe, just maybe, there was something more hidden beneath her surface-level thoughts. 

***

Wonyoung stood outside her new home, taking in the fresh start. Her family had saved for years, and now they were finally able to move into a nicer neighborhood. It was really a team effort. The house was recommended by Mrs. An, who lived just a few houses down. Wonyoung’s mother was busy unpacking kitchen supplies, while her father was hauling boxes from the moving truck. 

As she helped organize the living room, she glanced out the window and saw the familiar house of Mrs. An just a few doors away. She knew they’d be visiting her later, bringing over some food as a gesture of gratitude. It was the least they could do to thank her for her help not just with the house but also for what happened in the bar. Mrs. An had not only suggested this house, but her connections with the previous owners, who had moved to Australia, made the whole transition smoother. 

Her father walked past, a bit of sweat on his brow, but he smiled warmly at her. "It's nice, isn’t it?" 

Wonyoung smiled back. “Yeah, it really is.” She felt a sense of accomplishment, not just for herself but for her parents, who had worked so hard to make this move possible. 

***

Wonyoung stood beside her parents, Yunmi and Yool-ho, as they rang the doorbell to Mrs. An’s house. It was a cozy afternoon, and the faint scent of fallen leaves filled the air as they waited. The door swung open, revealing Ji-Young with a warm smile on her face. "Come in, come in!" she greeted them warmly, stepping aside to usher them into her beautiful home. 

As they entered, Woo-bin appeared, adjusting his tie. He was about to leave for a business meeting but paused to greet them with a polite smile. "Nice to meet you," he said with a slight bow. "Unfortunately, I’m heading out, but I hope you enjoy the afternoon." He gave a final nod to his wife and disappeared out the door. 

Once inside, Wonyoung couldn’t help but marvel at how well-decorated the house was. Every corner was filled with elegant but homey touches—paintings, tasteful furniture, and the soft scent of flowers in the air. Their house is really nice, and they have everything. Ji-Young led them to the dining area, where a beautiful meal had been prepared. As they sat down to eat, Yunmi and Yool-ho looked at Ji-Young with gratitude in their eyes. 

“Thank you so much for everything you’ve done for our daughter,” Yunmi said earnestly. “We’re so grateful for how you’ve helped her, especially with... everything recently.” 

Ji-Young waved it off with a smile, glancing warmly at Wonyoung. “Wonyoung is like a daughter to me, too,” she said, her voice filled with affection. "It was nothing, really." 

The conversation flowed easily, and Yunmi soon asked about Yujin. “Where is Yujin?” she inquired curiously. 

Ji-Young chuckled softly. “Ah, Yujin only comes home during weekends. He’s busy with school... though, maybe not as busy as he should be,” she added with a playful tone. “But he’s trying.” 

After the meal, Yunmi and Yool-ho offered to help with the dishes, leaving Wonyoung alone for a moment. She found herself wandering into the living room, where she couldn’t help but be drawn to the family photos on the wall. There were pictures of Yujin, much younger — adorable, dorky, and full of energy. She smiled unconsciously at how cute he looked, even as a kid. He is the same mischievous boy now.

As Wonyoung stood there, lost in thought, Ji-Young approached her quietly. “So,” she began with a teasing smile, “how is my son treating you these days?” 

Wonyoung, caught off guard, turned to face Ji-Young. “Yujin... Yujin is nice,” she said, her voice soft and thoughtful. 

“Is he bothering you? Be honest.” 

Wonyoung shook her head quickly. “No, no! He’s not a bother at all,” she said, feeling her cheeks heat up slightly. 

Ji-Young leaned in a little closer, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “Do you like my son too?” 

Wonyoung’s face flushed a deep red, unsure of what to say. She hesitated, her thoughts racing, but before she could respond, Ji-Young nudged her gently with her hip, laughing softly. “It’s fine, Wonyoung,” she reassured her. “Yujin may be childish at times, but he’s taking his studies seriously, told me he is getting a tutor — and it’s all because of you. I’m grateful to you for that.” 

She blinked, taken aback by Ji-Young’s words. She hadn’t thought about it that way before. “I... I don’t know what to say,” Wonyoung stammered. “I’m just sorry for Yujin getting beaten up before.” 

Ji-Young shook her head, smiling. “Don’t be. Yujin did the right thing. He’s always been like that since he was young - defending people, getting into fights to protect others. He was always in trouble in school, standing up for people who couldn’t stand up for themselves.” Ji-Young’s voice softened, filled with pride and affection. “He is dumb at school but he has a good heart.” 

Wonyoung felt a warmth spread through her chest as she listened. The more she heard about Yujin, the more she realized how kind he was — how genuine his soul was beneath all the playful chaos. 

***

Yujin sat casually in his mother's sleek office, slouching a bit in the chair opposite Ji-Young’s desk. He grinned, holding a stack of papers in his hand. His mother raised an eyebrow, already suspicious of her son’s intentions. 

“I need the car this weekend,” Yujin began, his voice light and casual. 

Ji-Young didn’t look up from the documents she was reviewing. “No,” she said flatly. 

“C’mon, mom, it’s for Seulwoo’s birthday. It’s a special occasion. Just for the weekend.” 

Ji-Young finally looked up from her work, meeting Yujin’s hopeful gaze. “You want to borrow my car?” she asked, her tone incredulous. “That sounds like a recipe for disaster.” 

But Yujin was prepared. With a dramatic flourish, he placed his latest exam papers on her desk. “Look!” he declared proudly. “I’ve been working hard. Check it out.” 

Ji-Young glanced at the grades, her face impassive as her eyes scanned the series of C’s and D’s on the sheets. After a pause, she met Yujin’s eyes with a raised brow. “You’re proud of this?” she asked dryly, holding the papers between her fingers like they were something mildly distasteful. 

“Better than F’s!” Yujin shot back confidently, leaning back in his chair. 

Ji-Young shook her head in disbelief and reached for a nearby folder. “You’re seriously proud of these grades?” she asked again, before swatting him on the head with the folder, making Yujin laugh and flinch at the same time. 

“Hey, I’m improving!” he protested, rubbing his head with a grin. 

Ji-Young wasn’t convinced. “My car might not come back in one piece if I let you take it,” she said, leaning back in her chair, clearly unimpressed by his bribe. 

“No, no!” Yujin straightened up, his tone turning sincere. “I’ll treasure it like my life depends on it. Promise.” 

Ji-Young leaned forward again, eyeing him suspiciously. “Why do you need my car when there are buses?” 

***

Yujin pulled up in front of Wonyoung’s dorm, the white Mercedes Benz SUV gleaming in the morning light. The sound of the car's engine quieting down caught the attention of Giselle and Liz, who were standing by the entrance, waiting with Wonyoung. As Yujin stepped out of the driver’s seat, Giselle and Liz exchanged wide-eyed looks. 

“Whoa... is that a Mercedes?” Liz whispered, clearly impressed. 

Wonyoung’s eyes widened as she recognized the luxury car as well. Yujin casually walked over with his usual carefree grin and waved. “Hey! Ready to go?” 

Wonyoung smiled, but her eyes couldn’t help but glance back at the car. “Isn’t this... your mom’s car?” she asked, still in a bit of awe. 

“Yep!” Yujin replied proudly. “Managed to convince her to let me borrow it for the weekend.” He tossed his key in the air and caught them with a wink. “All thanks to my stellar grades.” 

Giselle and Liz exchanged knowing looks, clearly not buying the story, but they didn’t say anything. 

Yujin, always eager to help, jogged over to the back of the SUV and opened the trunk. “Let me get your bags,” he offered, lifting their weekend luggage with ease and carefully packing them in the spacious trunk. 

Once everything was secured, he moved to the passenger side door, opening it for Wonyoung with a small, playful bow. “Your chariot awaits, milady,” he said, grinning. 

Wonyoung chuckled at his dorky but sweet gesture and climbed into the passenger seat, settling in the plush leather interior. Giselle and Liz hopped into the back, still marveling at how nice the car was. 

They set off on the road, the drive long but relaxing, and soon the car was filled with a mix of chatter and music. Yujin had his playlist going, a perfect mix of upbeat tunes that kept the mood light. 

***

As they arrived at Seulwoo’s grandparents’ home, the place was like something out of a postcard — a charming vacation home nestled near a river with lush greenery all around. Seulwoo’s grandmother, along with other family members, greeted them warmly, the smell of homemade food filling the air. It felt like a true escape from the city, peaceful and welcoming. 

For lunch, they all pitched in to help set the table and to clean the dishes afterward. Yujin, being a regular visitor to Seulwoo’s family home, took the lead, showing Wonyoung, Giselle, and Liz how to make themselves comfortable. 

“Oh my god, this fish is so good! Can I live here forever?” Liz said between bites, her eyes wide in delight. She even nudged Wonyoung, laughing. “We need to move in here!” 

Yujin, on the other hand, was quieter, but it was clear he was enjoying himself just as much. He was focused on his plate, eating with enthusiasm, his cheeks full, and he kept going back for seconds — then thirds. Every time he took a bite of something particularly tasty, his eyes would light up, and a satisfied smile would creep across his face. 

Wonyoung couldn’t help but glance at him between bites of her own meal. He looked so happy, almost like a kid, savoring every flavor. His pure enjoyment made her smile, and she found herself thinking how utterly adorable Yujin looked when he was excited about food. 

After the meal, Yujin and Wonyoung decided to take a walk by the riverbank. The afternoon sun cast a soft glow on the water, the peaceful sound of the current adding to the serene atmosphere. As they strolled, Yujin casually mentioned, “So, next week is your big graduation, huh? You, Liz noona, and Giselle noona must be excited.” 

“Yeah, it feels unreal. It’s finally happening.” She smiled, then looked at him. “And what about you? Still surviving?” 

Yujin scratched the back of his neck, his typical grin appearing. “Well, you know, I gotta attend summer classes since my grades tanked, but I found a tutor from my class.” 

Wonyoung looked at him, genuinely pleased. “I’m glad. I’m happy you’re finally taking school seriously. It’s important.” 

“Of course!” Yujin puffed out his chest, then glanced at her with a teasing smile. “Anything for you, Wonyoung.” 

Wonyoung rolled her eyes but laughed. “Right, anything for me.” 

As they continued walking, Wonyoung suddenly slipped on a patch of wet ground. Her foot sank into the mud, and she let out a small yelp as she twisted her ankle, her shoe stuck. “Ah!” she winced, trying to pull her foot out but unable to move it properly. 

Yujin, quick to react, rushed to her side. “You okay?” 

“I think I twisted my ankle a little,” Wonyoung said, grimacing. Yujin helped her to a nearby bench, carefully guiding her to sit down. He knelt in front of her and gently removed her muddy shoe, revealing a slight redness around her left ankle. 

“That doesn’t look too good. We’ll need to ice it,” Yujin said, frowning as he looked at her ankle. “But first...” He crouched lower, positioning himself so Wonyoung could climb onto his back. “Hop on. I’ll carry you.” 

Wonyoung blinked, surprised by the offer. “What? No, I can walk—” 

“Not with that ankle, you’re not,” Yujin interrupted, giving her a playful yet insistent look. “Come on, I’ll take you back. Don’t worry, I’ve got your shoe.” He picked up the muddy shoe with his free hand, holding it with a grin. 

Wonyoung sighed but couldn’t help smiling at the care he is giving her. She carefully climbed onto Yujin’s back, wrapping her arms around his shoulders as he stood up, steadying her. “Thanks,” she murmured. 

Yujin turned his head slightly, flashing her a grin. “Anytime, Madam President. I’ll also protect you from all rivers and mud traps from now on.” 

***

After dinner, Wonyoung sat on the couch with an ice pack resting on her ankle. The throbbing pain had subsided somewhat, but she stayed indoors while the others went outside to hang out under the stars. Seulwoo’s grandmother, a kind elderly woman with a gentle smile, sat beside her, attentively checking on Wonyoung’s ankle. 

"How are you feeling, dear?" Seulwoo’s grandmother asked, her voice warm with concern as she lightly pressed the area around Wonyoung’s ankle. 

"It’s a little better, thank you," Wonyoung replied, grateful for the care. She glanced at the group in front of her, laughing, playing and running, with Yujin in the middle of it, of course. 

Seulwoo’s grandmother gave her a knowing smile. "Your boyfriend, he’s very caring, isn’t he? Carrying you like that when you hurt your ankle. He must really care about you." 

Wonyoung blinked in surprise and quickly waved her hands. "Oh, no, no! Yujin? He’s not my boyfriend!" she said, a little flustered by the sudden assumption. 

Seulwoo’s grandmother raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced. "Really? I thought he was." 

Wonyoung shook her head, her cheeks warming slightly. "No, we’re just friends. He’s a little... well, but he’s not my boyfriend." 

The older woman chuckled softly and leaned back in her chair, giving Wonyoung a thoughtful look. "Well, forgive me for saying, but you kept looking at him since you guys arrived, and you smile when you look at him."

Wonyoung’s expression softened, and she glanced at him again, her eyes unconsciously following Yujin as he animatedly told a story to the others. She hadn’t realized it, but Seulwoo’s grandmother was right — there was something about Yujin that made her smile without thinking. 

"I... I didn’t notice," Wonyoung murmured.

Seulwoo’s grandmother patted Wonyoung’s hand gently. "Sometimes, it takes a while to see what's right in front of you, dear. But when you do, it becomes so clear." 

***

The next day, the group gathered in the cozy living room for a relaxing afternoon of board games. The air was filled with laughter as Liz and Giselle bickered over the rules, their voices a playful echo in the warm, sunlit room. Seulwoo's grandparents watched them fondly from the corner, happy to see their home filled with youthful energy. 

Yujin, sitting beside Wonyoung, stretched his arms above his head, glancing over at the board. "Alright, who's ready to lose?" he teased, shooting a playful grin at Wonyoung. 

They dove into the game, with Liz constantly laughing loudly at her own mistakes and Seulwoo trying to strategize seriously. But the real highlight for Wonyoung was Yujin. Every time it was his turn, he leaned in close to her, his energy radiating as he made a move or cracked a joke. 

After a few rounds, Seulwoo's grandmother called from the kitchen, asking for help with dinner. Everyone got up to assist, but Yujin, true to his earlier promise, wouldn’t let Wonyoung walk on her own. 

"Whoa, where do you think you're going?" Yujin said as Wonyoung tried to stand. Before she could protest, Yujin swooped down and lifted her off the ground in one smooth motion, cradling her in his arms as if it he’s done this so many times. 

"Yujin!" Wonyoung yelped, flustered, but she couldn't help the smile that tugged at her lips. "You don't have to carry me everywhere." 

"Oh, but I do," he replied, giving her a cheeky grin. "Doctor's orders, remember?" He gestured to her still-iced ankle. 

"You are not a doctor," Wonyoung muttered, though she relaxed into his arms, feeling the warmth of his body close to hers. 

He carried her into the kitchen, earning amused glances from Seulwoo's family. “Aren’t they cute?” Liz whispered to Giselle, giggling, as they followed behind. 

As the day stretched on, they moved between helping with the kitchen, playing more games, and sharing stories. Wonyoung’s ankle was fine now, but Yujin didn’t care. He remained true to his word, carrying her from room to room. He carried her with a lightness that made it feel like it was just an excuse to be close. At first, she protested, insisting she could walk, but each time, Yujin would just give her that playful, stubborn look, and she'd relent, secretly enjoying the attention. And Wonyoung found herself no longer fighting it, letting herself enjoy the way he always seemed to know how to make her smile, how to make the day feel brighter. 

In the kitchen, Wonyoung directed the chopping and stirring while perched on the kitchen counter, Yujin keeping close as he sliced vegetables and teased Seulwoo about his poor knife skills. The warm scent of spices filled the air as they all laughed and worked together, preparing a hearty dinner. 

By the time dinner was ready, the group was full of laughter and warmth, the bond between them were getting stronger than before. Wonyoung glanced at Yujin as they all sat down to eat. He caught her eye and winked. And her heart softened a little more. 

***

Wonyoung sat on the edge of her bed, her back resting against the wooden frame, watching the faint rise and fall of Liz and Giselle's sleeping beside her. The quiet hum of the night was soothing, but her mind wandered, still buzzing with thoughts she couldn’t quite settle. She glanced toward the window and noticed Yujin on the balcony across the way, completely absorbed in something. 

Curiosity piqued, she carefully slid off the bed and tiptoed closer, leaning just enough to catch a glimpse of him. Yujin sat there, a guitar resting comfortably in his lap, his fingers lightly picking at the strings. The soft melody that floated from his fingertips was beautiful, gentle and heartfelt. It felt as if he was lost in his own world, and Wonyoung couldn’t help but be mesmerized by the scene. 

In that moment, Yujin looked different — calmer, more focused. His face was relaxed, eyes downcast, completely absorbed in the music. His hands moved effortlessly, skillfully. Wonyoung found herself staring at them, those hands that had so gently carried her earlier, now creating such beautiful music. Seeing him like this, so in his element, made her heart skip a beat. 

Her gaze drifted slightly, and that’s when she saw it — her shoe, the one that had been stuck in the mud earlier, now hanging on a makeshift hanger on his balcony. It was clean, spotless, like it had never been dirty in the first place. She blinked, realizing Yujin must have taken the time to clean it for her. Her heart fluttered at the thought of him quietly doing something so thoughtful without even mentioning it. 

As she watched him, her thoughts returned to Seulwoo’s grandmother. "You kept looking at him, and you smile when you look at him." The words echoed in her head. A stranger, someone she had just met, had seen something in her that she had been denying for so long. 

She blinked, her breath catching in her throat. Is she…? 

Suddenly, it hit her — she wasn’t just catching Yujin staring at her all the time. She had been looking at him too, really looking at him. Her chest tightened as realization washed over her. All those moments, those lingering glances, the way she always seemed to find herself smiling when Yujin was around... it wasn’t just coincidence. It was something more. 

The reason I always catch him staring… is because I’m always looking at him too. 

***

It was a quiet evening when Yujin drove Liz and Giselle back to their dorm after a fun weekend at Seulwoo's family home. As they arrived at the neighborhood, the atmosphere shifted to a more comfortable silence. Yujin slowed the car in front of Wonyoung’s house, a slight grin on his face as he parked. 

“You didn’t tell me you moved this close to my house,” Yujin teased, leaning slightly toward her. 

Wonyoung smiled, unbuckling her seatbelt. “I wanted it to be a surprise.” 

“Well, surprise! I had to learn from my mom that our new neighbor is you!”

Wonyoung let out a small laugh. “Sorry. I didn’t think it was a big deal.” 

“You’re lucky I forgive easily.” 

She tried to open the car door but Yujin stopped her. He exited the car and walk around it and opened it for her. “I have to be a gentleman. Lean on me.”

Wonyoung laughed, “my ankle is seriously okay now, it was just an awkward twist.” But Yujin didn’t move, still waiting for her to lean on him so she did, her arm grabbing his as they walk to her gate. 

“Goodnight, Yujin.” 

“Goodnight, Wonyoung,” he replied, closing the door and watched her walk inside. 

Later that night, after taking a long, relaxing bath, Wonyoung lay on her bed, feeling the warmth of the weekend still lingering. Her phone lit up with a message notification. She glanced at the screen, and her eyes widened in curiosity when she saw it was from Yujin. 

Look at your window. 

Furrowing her brows, Wonyoung slid out of bed, padding across her room. She opened her curtains and then pushed the window slightly ajar, the cool evening air brushing against her skin. Dialing Yujin’s number, she raised the phone to her ear. 

“Hello?” she asked, confused. "What’s this about?" 

On the other end of the line, Yujin’s voice was playful. “I’m here!” he said enthusiastically. 

Wonyoung’s brow furrowed even deeper. “Here? What do you mean—” 

“Look to your left,” Yujin cut her off. 

Following his instructions, Wonyoung squinted through the darkness, searching. Her gaze landed on Mrs. An’s balcony, where she saw Yujin standing there, waving his hand eagerly, a grin spread wide across his face. 

Wonyoung burst into laughter, unable to contain it. “What are you doing?” she asked, shaking her head. 

Yujin’s voice echoed through the phone. “Just saying goodnight!”

Wonyoung smiled, still finding the situation a little surreal. “Are you sleeping there tonight?”

“I’ll be living here again until you go back to your dorm.” 

Wonyoung’s laughter softened into a smile, her heart fluttering a little. “Really?” 

“Yup,” Yujin said confidently. “Can’t have you living next door without me keeping an eye on you, can I?” 

Wonyoung shook her head, feeling an odd sense of comfort knowing that Yujin was close by. “Alright, well, goodnight for real this time, Yujin.” 

“Goodnight, Wonyoung.” 

As Wonyoung closed her window and crawled back into bed, she couldn’t help but smile to herself, realizing how much she’d come to enjoy these moments with Yujin. Little by little, he was making her feel at home, even in a place that was new. 

Chapter Text

It was a warm evening, the air filled with the smell of freshly prepared food as Wonyoung stood in Mrs. An’s kitchen, helping to slice vegetables for dinner. The soft hum of conversation filled the room, and Yujin sat at the counter, watching her and his mother work. 

“Do you need any help?” Yujin asked, leaning slightly forward.

Before Wonyoung could answer, Mrs. An, Ji-Young, gave him a playful look. “You never ask me if I need help in the kitchen,” she teased, shaking her head. 

Wonyoung couldn’t help but laugh softly at the exchange. Glancing over her shoulder, she raised an eyebrow at Yujin. “Do you even know how to cook?” 

Yujin grinned and leaned back in his seat. “Not really.” 

“Well then,” Wonyoung said, smirking, “you should just sit down and leave it to us.” 

Yujin chuckled but didn’t argue. Instead, he picked up a book from the counter and began reading, though his eyes kept drifting back to Wonyoung.

As dinner was served, the three of them sat together around the table. The meal was simple but delicious — tonkatsu, yukgaejang, kalbi, rice, and vegetables. Yujin, as usual, was happily devouring the tonkatsu. Mrs. An watched him with a smirk, placing a plate of vegetables in front of him. 

“You really need to eat more vegetables,” she said, teasing him. “You’ve got a palate of a child.” 

Wonyoung stifled a laugh as she watched Yujin pout a little, but he obediently eat the vegetables in front of him. The warmth in the room was undeniable — an easy, comfortable feeling that Wonyoung found herself enjoying more and more with Yujin’s family. 

After dinner, as the night deepened, Yujin insisted on walking Wonyoung back to her house. The streets were quiet, and the soft sound of their footsteps was the only thing filling the air as they made their way to her door. 

Just as Wonyoung reached for the handle, Yujin suddenly called out, “Wait.” 

She turned to see him stepping closer, his expression unusually serious. He gently grabbed her arm, pulling her hand closer. From his pocket, Yujin pulled out a bracelet — a thin silver chain with a heart and infinity symbol. 

“I wanted to give you this,” Yujin said, his voice a little quieter than usual, as he carefully clasped the bracelet around her wrist. “It’s my graduation gift for you. I hope you like it.” 

Wonyoung felt her heart thudding in her chest as his fingers brushed against her skin, the small gesture suddenly feeling more intimate than she had expected. The bracelet glittered softly under the porch light, simple yet beautiful. 

“I… I love it,” Wonyoung finally managed to say, her voice barely above a whisper as she looked up at him. 

Yujin smiled, the boyish grin she had come to know so well returning to his face. “Goodnight, Wonyoung,” he said softly, backing away, his eyes lingering on her for a moment longer before he turned to leave. 

Wonyoung stood there for a second, watching him go. She glanced down at the bracelet on her wrist, her heart still racing, and couldn’t help but smile. With a final glance at Yujin’s retreating figure, she opened the door and stepped inside, feeling something warm and unspoken settle deep in her chest. 

***

Wonyoung sat on the edge of her bed, staring at her phone, waiting for that familiar message to pop up. It had become part of her routine now, something she didn’t even realize she depended on until she found herself constantly checking her screen, looking for Yujin’s name. Good morning. A simple text, yet it made her heart race every time. 

Lately, things felt different. More intense. More confusing. 

She sighed, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear as her gaze drifted across her room. Her eyes landed on her wardrobe, where Yujin’s hoodie hung neatly inside. She hadn’t returned it, even though it had been months since he lent it to her. It was comforting and familiar. And she couldn’t bring herself to give it back. Yujin never asked for it either, which only made her wonder why she felt so possessive over it. 

Her thoughts were relentless, always circling back to him. At first, it had been simple — she admired him, found him cute, endearing in that boyish, carefree way of his. But now, things were changing. She felt her heart thudding louder whenever she saw him, almost embarrassingly so. His presence was more than just comforting; it was intoxicating. And it wasn’t just his smile or his playful teasing that lingered in her mind. 

No, it was the little things. The way his hand felt even if it was just a simple accidental touch. She found herself wondering what it would be like to hold his hand, how perfectly their fingers would fit together. The memory of his arm around her when he carried her played over and over in her head, and now she was starting to wonder what it would feel like if they did more than just hold hands or even a hug. She started to think he smell good, and sometimes she wants to lean in her head on his shoulders.

Her heart raced as her mind wandered. She couldn’t stop thinking about him — about being close to him, closer than she’d ever let herself imagine before. Her dreams were filled with moments where she would just lean in, hug him, feel his heartbeat against hers. The warmth of his body next to hers. And she would wake up feeling restless, her chest tight with an emotion she was too scared to name. 

This wasn’t just admiration anymore. It wasn’t just endearment. She knew that now. She was thinking about Yujin in ways that made her cheeks burn and her pulse quicken. It wasn’t just about missing his texts or his presence. She was curious — curious about what it would be like to kiss him, to hold him, to feel him close in ways that went beyond friendship. 

Wonyoung stood up and walked over to the wardrobe, her hand brushing against the soft fabric of his hoodie. A sudden rush of emotion flooded her. She feels something — more than she was willing to admit. She wasn’t sure when it had shifted, when these simple feelings had grown into something so much bigger. But now, it was undeniable. 

She wanted to keep him close, to feel that connection deepen. And it scared her how much she longed for it. 

Wonyoung stood in her room and she found herself pacing back and forth, her hair a mess as she pulled at it in frustration. The emotions had been bubbling inside her for days, weeks even, were overflowing. She didn’t know how to handle this. Ever since Seulwoo’s grandmother had pointed out how often she looked at Yujin and smiled after, the thought hadn’t left her mind. 

Why was it so hard to admit how she felt?

She threw herself onto her bed, covering her face with her hands, letting out a muffled squeal. It was too much. Everything about Yujin was starting to affect her in ways she couldn’t control. His texts, his voice, even just the thought of him. Her heart raced every time. She couldn’t stay like this, trapped in her own feelings. She needed air, space — something to clear her head. 

Before she knew it, she had grabbed her jacket and stormed out of the house, hoping a walk would clear her head. But as her feet moved on their own, she hadn’t realized where she was going until she looked up and found herself standing in front of Yujin’s house. Her heart skipped a beat, and she was about to turn around when she saw Yujin walking toward her from a distance. 

Her pulse quickened at the sight of him, and for a moment, the world slowed. He looked effortlessly handsome, his hair catching the late afternoon sunlight, and his usual cheerful grin spread across his face. His voice was as charming and bright as ever as he greeted her. "Wonyoung! What brings you here?" 

Her heart skipped a beat — no, several beats. She became painfully aware of how tall he was, how his hair fell perfectly, how his voice was so... inviting. He walked toward her, and with every step, her heart pounded louder. 

There it goes again. That annoying, uncontrollable thudding in her chest. Wonyoung couldn’t stop it, even if she wanted to. And suddenly, she was hyper-aware of everything — the way Yujin towered over her, how deep his voice sounded, how broad his shoulders were. She swallowed, trying to calm her racing heart, but it felt impossible when he was so close, walking toward her with that easy smile. She couldn’t stop staring at him. 

But then, just as her thoughts were spiraling further, a voice broke through the air behind Yujin. “Yujin-ah!” 

Both Yujin and Wonyoung turned to see a girl approaching them, smiling widely. Wonyoung’s heart sank as the girl, much shorter than them, reached out and casually linked her arm with Yujin’s. Her touch was so natural, so familiar, it made Wonyoung’s chest tighten uncomfortably. The girl looked at Yujin with warmth that made something twist inside her. 

“Wonyoung, this is Haewon, my tutor,” Yujin said, smiling between the two of them. Haewon gave Wonyoung a friendly smile, and Wonyoung forced herself to return it, though she could feel her face stiffen. She didn’t like how close Haewon was standing to Yujin, how casual it seemed for her to link arms with him like that. 

Her mind was racing. Why is she holding his arm like that? And why is Yujin okay with it? 

Before she could process her thoughts any further, Yujin’s father, Mr. An Woo-bin, stepped out of the house. “Yujin, are you heading out?” he asked, glancing at the two of them. 

Yujin nodded. “Yeah, I have a tutoring session with Haewon.” 

Woo-bin raised a brow and said, “Why not just study here at home? I’m heading out for a meeting anyway.” He smiled at Haewon and Wonyoung before adding, “It’s safer indoors.” 

Haewon smiled sweetly at Mr. An. “Thank you, Mr. An, that’s a good idea.” 

As Woo-bin turned to leave, he greeted Wonyoung as well. “Hello, Wonyoung! Good to see you.” 

Wonyoung greeted him back, trying to hide the growing discomfort in her chest. She couldn’t even focus on anything properly. Her mind was too busy running in circles, asking questions she didn’t want to admit she had. 

“I’ve got to head inside,” Yujin said, turning to Wonyoung with that familiar, playful smile. “I’ll text you after the session, okay?” 

***

Wonyoung was pacing outside Yujin’s house, glancing nervously toward the windows, trying to get a peek inside. What were they doing? Were they really studying? Why were they alone in there together? It didn't feel right. It wasn’t like her to be suspicious, but something about the whole situation made her uneasy. Wasn’t it dangerous to have a girl and a guy alone in the house like that? Her mind raced with scenarios she didn't want to think about. 

She had been texting Yujin, but there was no reply. No “I’m still studying” or even a casual “Be right back.” Her stomach twisted. What was going on? 

Just then, she heard voices from behind. “Wonyoung?” 

She turned to see Liz and Giselle walking toward her, both with confused expressions on their faces. “What are you doing?” Liz asked, raising an eyebrow. “We were just about to visit your house.” 

Wonyoung froze, awkwardly standing in front of Yujin’s house like she’d been caught in the middle of something. She struggled to come up with an excuse, but Liz’s sharp eyes narrowed. 

"Isn’t this… Yujin’s house?" Giselle added, already catching on with a mischievous grin. 

***

A few moments later, the three of them were sitting in a nearby café, and Wonyoung was trying her best to explain why she’d been pacing back and forth outside Yujin’s house. Liz was pulling her own hair in frustration, while Giselle was laughing uncontrollably. 

Liz groaned dramatically, leaning across the table. "How long are you going to keep this up, Wonyoung? You’re obviously falling for Yujin!" 

Giselle wiped a tear from laughing so hard. "I knew it! You've been in denial this whole time, girl." 

Wonyoung stuttered, trying to find words to defend herself, but her face was heating up. "I-I wasn’t spying! I just... I was curious!" 

Liz, pulling her hair, shook her head dramatically. "It’s been a whole semester, Wonyoung! And now it’s summer break! Yujin’s been courting you for ages. What’s holding you back?" 

The teasing smile faded from Wonyoung’s face, and she looked down at her hands. After a moment, she sighed, her voice serious. "I’m just... scared." 

Liz and Giselle exchanged a glance, their expressions softening. "Of what?" Giselle asked gently. 

Wonyoung hesitated before speaking again. "Of relationships. Of getting hurt. What if Yujin changes? What if, after he gets what he wants, he becomes someone different?" 

Giselle leaned back, her tone more serious now. "Do you seriously think Yujin is like that? Do you really think he’d hurt you? He’s like a baby boy, Wonyoung. So sweet and pure." 

Wonyoung shook her head, still unsure. "Then why was Haewon linking arms with him? Why are they alone in the house together?" 

Liz rolled her eyes and flicked Wonyoung's arm. "Girl, knowing Yujin, he’s probably not thinking anything malicious at all. He’s clueless and so innocent. He wouldn’t even think about it the way we do. We are just assuming and perverts." 

***

One afternoon, Wonyoung was walking toward the grocery store where she was supposed to meet her mother. She was lost in thought when, out of nowhere, Yujin appeared in front of her on a bike, grinning from ear to ear. 

"Hey, Wonyoung!" Yujin called out, stopping his bike right in front of her. "Want a ride?" 

Wonyoung looked at him, amused but curious. "On that?" she asked, raising an eyebrow. 

Yujin laughed and nodded. "Yeah! I have a motorcycle, but I can’t use it for now. So, this bike will have to do. Plus, it’s good for the environment, and I get to exercise." He patted the handlebars proudly. 

After a moment, Wonyoung shrugged and accepted. "Alright, why not?" She climbed onto the back of the bike, carefully holding onto Yujin’s waist as he started pedaling. 

As they rode, Wonyoung asked, "Do you use this bike a lot?" 

Yujin shrugged. "Not really, but Mom insists I walk Haewon to the bus stop after our study sessions and sometimes I don’t want to walk cause she walks so slow and so chatty, so I use this." 

Wonyoung's grip on Yujin's waist tightened instinctively, a flare of jealousy and annoyance rising in her chest. The thought of Haewon riding with Yujin like this made her stomach twist. She leaned her head against his back, trying to calm herself, but the thought lingered. This bike needed to go. 

"Where do you guys usually study?"

Yujin, keeping his eyes on the road, answered with a grin. "At the café most of the time. But my mom usually wants us at home, especially when she's around." 

Wonyoung’s eyebrows shot up, and she felt a strange pang of annoyance she didn’t expect. Home, huh? She thought about Mrs. An, always fawning over Yujin’s tutor. Without thinking, she tightened her grip around Yujin’s waist, squeezing him just a little too hard. 

Yujin jolted in surprise, almost swerving for a moment. “Whoa!”

“I’m not going to arrange Mrs. An’s planner anymore…” 

“What?” Yujin asked, completely oblivious, turning his head slightly but not fully catching what she said. “What did you say?” 

Realizing how childish she must’ve sounded, Wonyoung’s eyes widened, and she quickly covered it up. She decided to change the subject, her tone casual despite her inner turmoil. "How’s studying going? Are you doing better now?" 

Yujin chuckled. "Yeah, I think I’ve improved. But I’m not sure if it's because of Haewon or my mindset finally changing." 

Wonyoung rolled her eyes, her jealousy flaring up again. "You probably don’t need Haewon anymore," she muttered under her breath. 

Yujin tilted his head slightly. "Maybe, but it’s nice having someone hold me accountable for my studies. Keeps me on track, you know?" 

Wonyoung let out a sigh, feeling her patience wear thin. She didn’t like the idea of Haewon being so involved in Yujin’s life, especially with how close they seemed. She glanced at the bike again, silently plotting its demise in her head. 

When they finally reached the grocery store, Yujin slowed to a stop, letting Wonyoung hop off. He turned to her with his usual cheerful smile. "Should I wait for you and your mom? I can give you a ride back and carry your groceries." 

Wonyoung shook her head quickly, already annoyed at the thought of another bike ride. "No need," she said, eyeing the bike critically. "This thing’s not even a smooth ride. Something’s wrong with it." 

Her frustration surged as she stood in front of the bike, her heart still racing with jealousy and irritation. She glared at the front wheel, her breath coming out in sharp bursts. Without warning, she kicked it hard, the force causing Yujin to jolt, almost losing his balance. The sharp clang of the impact echoed in the air. 

Yujin’s eyes widened, and he almost fell off the bike from the sudden shift. He steadied himself, looking back at Wonyoung in surprise, his face a mix of confusion and concern. "W-Wonyoung, what—" 

“You should get rid of it.”

But before he could say anything, Wonyoung’s gaze was intense as she looked at him. "Give me the books you're studying later," she said firmly. 

Yujin was taken aback, his lips parting as he tried to process her sudden mood change. He blinked, watching her disappear inside, completely bewildered. He looked down at his bike, scratching the back of his head, wondering what just happened. 

***

Yujin stood in the bike repair shop, his hands stuffed into his pockets as he watched the mechanic inspect his bicycle. The mechanic, an older man with grease-stained hands, crouched beside the bike, spinning the wheels and checking the chain. 

“Looks fine to me,” the mechanic muttered, glancing up at Yujin. “What exactly is wrong with it?” 

Yujin scratched the back of his head, a bit unsure. “Uh, check harder,” he insisted, his tone uncertain. He wasn’t entirely sure what to say — there wasn’t anything technically wrong with the bike, at least not that he could tell. But Wonyoung had kicked the front wheel hard and said something about it not being a smooth ride. It stuck in his mind, and now he was here, trying to figure out why she seemed to hate the thing so much. 

The mechanic raised an eyebrow but continued to check the bike, tightening bolts and spinning the pedals, clearly not finding anything wrong. Yujin sighed, leaning against the counter as he replayed the moment in his mind. Wonyoung had been strangely annoyed earlier, her expression was tense as she kicked the front wheel, telling him to get rid of the bike. It wasn’t like her to get mad over something so small — or maybe it wasn’t small at all. He frowned, trying to figure out what it was. 

“Maybe it’s just old,” Yujin mumbled to himself, watching the mechanic work. He couldn’t help but think about how Wonyoung had leaned her head against his back during their ride, holding onto him a little tighter than usual. Was it really just the bike? Or was there something else she was trying to say? 

“You sure this is the one that needs fixing?” the mechanic asked, standing up and wiping his hands on a rag. 

Yujin blinked, brought back to the present. “Yeah... I mean, maybe it’s not the bike after all,” he muttered, still scratching his head. He couldn’t shake the feeling that Wonyoung’s frustration was less about the bike and more about something else.

He bit his lip, a small smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. Maybe he didn’t need to fix the bike. Maybe he needed to pay more attention to Wonyoung. 

Chapter Text

Wonyoung sat at the corner of the cafe with Liz, both of them wearing oversized sunglasses that almost covered half their faces. Wonyoung pretended to read a newspaper, holding it up in front of her as if she was deep in thought, but her eyes were glued to Yujin and Haewon sitting in the opposite corner of the cafe. Liz sat next to her, looking less than impressed. 

"We look pathetic," Liz muttered under her breath.

Wonyoung peeked over the edge of the newspaper, her lips pressed together in a tight line as she watched Haewon lean a little too close to Yujin, her hand subtly brushing his arm. Yujin, for his part, seemed entirely oblivious, focused on the notes in front of him, scribbling something down. Haewon, however, wasn’t even trying to be subtle. The way she leaned in, her body practically hovering over Yujin, made Wonyoung’s blood boil under her cool exterior. 

Just then, the waiter approached them, snapping Wonyoung out of her trance. "Can I get you ladies anything?" 

Liz quickly ordered, her voice swift. "Two iced lattes, please." 

As the waiter walked away, Liz leaned closer to Wonyoung, lowering her voice. "You know, you could save us both the trouble if you just confessed to Yujin already. That way, Haewon won't think he’s available, and she’ll back off." 

Wonyoung bit her lip, her grip tightening on the newspaper. "I'm not ready for that," she muttered. 

Liz rolled her eyes and leaned back in her seat. "Look at her. She's grabbing his arm again." 

Wonyoung's eyes darted back to the scene, her gaze sharp beneath the sunglasses. Haewon was now leaning in even closer, her hand lingering on Yujin's arm as she laughed at something he said. Yujin, still oblivious, didn’t even seem to notice. He was too focused on his notes to see Haewon’s attempts at flirting. 

Liz suddenly leaned in closer and whispered, "You know, it’s kind of your fault Yujin’s hanging out with Haewon all the time." 

Wonyoung’s head snapped toward her, eyes widening. "What? How is it my fault?" 

"You were the one who pushed him to get a tutor in the first place. Now look at him, studying with her all the time." 

Wonyoung frowned, guilt creeping into her chest as she glanced back at Yujin, who was still obliviously focused on his notes while Haewon leaned closer, clearly trying to get his attention. "I didn’t know he’d end up with a tutor who’s into him," she mumbled defensively. "I thought he’d get someone… you know, more nerdy-looking." 

Liz scoffed, shaking her head. "You really thought he'd get some nerdy girl with glasses? Well, now you've got Haewon, and she's not just tutoring him. She’s getting all handsy while you sit here, hiding behind sunglasses like a spy."

Wonyoung felt a twist of frustration and guilt inside her. Was it really her fault? She couldn’t help but wonder if she made a mistake pushing Yujin to get outside help. But then she steeled herself, forcing the guilt down. "I didn't sign him up for a tutor who flirts with him," she muttered stubbornly. 

Then Haewon suddenly leaned her head on Yujin’s shoulder. 

Liz suddenly coughed, loudly and exaggeratedly, drawing attention from nearby tables. Yujin and Haewon both looked up, startled, their eyes scanning the cafe. Wonyoung and Liz quickly ducked behind the newspaper, both of them trying not to laugh at the awkwardness of it all. They stayed like that for a few moments, hiding and peeking at Yujin and Haewon from their makeshift cover. 

Finally, after what felt like forever, Yujin and Haewon finished their study session and got up to leave. Wonyoung could feel her heart racing as they walked past their table. Yujin paused for a moment, his brows furrowing in confusion. 

“Liz? Wonyoung?” he said, tilting his head as if he recognized them. 

Wonyoung straightened up, pretending she had just noticed him. "Oh, you’re here too?" she said, forcing a casual tone. "We didn’t see you." Liz nodded along, looking equally innocent. "Yeah, we were just catching up, drinking coffee because, you know... it’s a cafe," Liz added, her tone overly casual. 

Yujin smiled, but before he could respond, Wonyoung quickly nudged him with her elbow. "Let's go home. Walk me," she said, her tone a little sharper than she intended, but she didn’t care. She just wanted to get Yujin away from Haewon. 

But Haewon pouted, stepping closer to Yujin. "Yujin, you said you’d walk me to the bus stop," she reminded him, clearly trying to keep his attention. 

Liz shot Haewon a side glance, barely hiding her disgust. "Haewon," Liz said, her voice dripping with sarcasm, "how old are you? Why do you need someone to walk you to the bus stop?" 

Haewon ignored Liz’s comment, still looking expectantly at Yujin. Wonyoung, now irritated, looped her arm through Yujin’s, staking her claim without saying a word. Yujin, a little caught off guard, just blinked at the sudden closeness. 

Liz stepped in, still watching Haewon with a smirk. "Tell you what, Haewon. I’m headed home anyway. How about I walk you to the bus stop? Let’s leave these lovebirds to walk home together." 

Haewon’s face twitched, clearly not thrilled with the idea, but with Liz staring her down and Wonyoung holding onto Yujin, she didn’t have much of a choice. "Lovebirds?" Haewon muttered. "Aren't you guys older than us?" 

Wonyoung and Liz both burst into laughter, clearly offended. "It's only two years!" Wonyoung shot back.

Liz smirked, crossing her arms. "Yeah, why are you acting like we're in our thirties? Seriously!" she added, clearly having no patience for Haewon's comment. 

Haewon was taken aback, but Liz, not missing a beat, gave her a pointed look. "Come on, let's go to the bus stop, you needy girl." Without giving Haewon much time to protest, Liz started walking, forcing her to follow. 

Yujin stood there, completely clueless, smiling softly at the word "lovebirds" as if the whole exchange had gone right over his head. Meanwhile, Wonyoung kept her arm linked with Yujin’s, a small smile tugging at her lips as she realized they were finally alone. 

As they walked through the neighborhood, Wonyoung glanced up at Yujin, noticing his smile. "Why are you smiling like that?" she asked.

Yujin chuckled, turning his head slightly toward her. "Because Liz called us lovebirds." 

Wonyoung couldn't help but smile back at him, her heart skipping a beat. Before she could respond, Yujin leaned in a little closer. "Don’t remove your arm from me." 

"I won’t." 

And just like that, they walked through the neighborhood, arm in arm, filled with a newfound closeness. 

***

Wonyoung stood in front of Yujin's house, carrying her laptop and notes, preparing for what would be their first study session together. She felt a bit anxious. Yujin opened the door, and she blinked in surprise. 

Yujin grinned at her reaction, stepping aside to let her in. "Hi!" he teased, noticing her wide eyes. 

As they walked inside, Mrs. An greeted them warmly. "You two can study in the living room," she said with a smile, gesturing toward the cozy space. Wonyoung nodded and thanked her. 

They got settled, and Wonyoung pulled out her notes, organizing them for Yujin’s classes. Yujin, who had been commuting between the university and his house just to be closer to her, seemed genuinely focused. 

"Are these my notes?" he asked, his voice full of awe. "Wonyoung, these look amazing. No wonder you're so smart." 

Wonyoung smiled, slightly embarrassed but proud of her work. "I wanted to simplify yours. I figured, why should you rely on Haewon when I’m here?" 

Yujin’s eyes softened as he listened. He shifted closer to her on the couch, touched by the effort she put into helping him. "Thank you," he said sincerely. 

Wonyoung settled into the study session with Yujin, her focus split between tutoring him and the subtle goal she had in mind — kicking Haewon out of Yujin's life for good. She knew it wasn’t something she could do openly, but she planned to find ways to make sure Yujin no longer needed Haewon, especially when it came to studying. 

“So, from now on,” Wonyoung said, almost casually but with intention behind her words, “I’ll tutor you. You don’t need Haewon anymore.” 

Yujin smiled, nodding without hesitation. "I like that," he said, leaning in a bit closer to her. 

But then, Wonyoung noticed his mood shift — his smile faded, and his brow furrowed slightly. Something was bothering him. She hesitated for a moment before asking, "What's wrong?" 

He sighed, glancing down at the table before meeting her eyes. “Haewon’s been acting weird lately. I mean, she’s always been clingy, but now… she sits super close during our sessions and grabs my hand for no reason. People are starting to get the wrong idea, and it’s awkward.” 

Wonyoung felt her blood boil instantly. The mere thought of Haewon getting so close to Yujin made her stomach churn with irritation. Before she could stop herself, she blurted out, "From now on, I don’t want you hanging out with Haewon." 

Yujin blinked, surprised by her sudden outburst. Wonyoung, realizing how forceful she sounded, quickly added, “I mean, whatever you need with school — just come to me. You don’t need her anymore, right?” 

There was a pause as Yujin processed her words. A slow smile spread across his face, one that made Wonyoung's heart thud in her chest. “Sure, I’ll tell you from now on, I will just send her the final payment for our tutor session,” he said, seemingly relieved by her offer.

Wonyoung couldn’t help but feel a small victory inside. Haewon’s days of hanging around Yujin were numbered — she’d make sure of it.  

As Wonyoung and Yujin continued their conversation, Mrs. An stood by the kitchen counter, cutting fruits for them. Though she was focused on her task, she couldn’t help but overhear bits and pieces of their conversation. When Wonyoung firmly told Yujin that she didn’t want him hanging out with Haewon anymore and offered to help with his studies, Mrs. An’s hands paused for a moment, her lips curling into a soft smile. 

She glanced toward the living room, watching them from the corner of her eye. Yujin looked comfortable, his mood lightening, and Wonyoung seemed more serious than usual, her protective instincts kicking in. The sight of them interacting so naturally, with Wonyoung’s gentle possessiveness and Yujin’s carefree acceptance, made Mrs. An’s heart warm. 

Young love is so cute, she thought to herself, a nostalgic glimmer in her eyes as she sliced the apples and arranged them neatly on a plate. She could see that Wonyoung cared for Yujin in ways that went beyond just friendship or tutoring. There was something tender there, something growing beneath the surface that even they probably hadn’t fully realized yet. 

With a knowing smile, Mrs. An carried the fruit plate to the living room, placing it on the coffee table in front of them. “Here’s a snack for the hardworking students,” she said, her tone light and teasing as if she hadn’t just witnessed a small, sweet moment between them. 

“Thanks, Mom,” Yujin said, reaching for a piece, while Wonyoung gave her a polite nod, though a hint of a blush colored her cheeks. Mrs. An winked at Wonyoung subtly before returning to the kitchen, her heart full of fondness for the two of them. 

***

Wonyoung was about to head out when she spotted her mother, Yunmi, lounging in the living room, flipping through a magazine. 

“Heading out?” Yunmi asked, setting the magazine aside. 

“Yeah, just going to meet some friends.” 

“Oh, by the way, Mrs. An is so nice. We went to the spa together yesterday. She's very sweet, you know." 

"Yeah, she really is. Mrs. An’s great." 

Just as Wonyoung turned to leave, Yunmi’s gaze sharpened, and she tilted her head slightly. "Wait a second... why are you all dressed up?" Yunmi teased, her eyes twinkling with curiosity. "Is that expensive perfume I smell? And... makeup?" 

Wonyoung froze for a moment, caught off guard. "It's nothing special," she said quickly, brushing off the comment. "I’m just going out." 

Her mother laughed, her teasing tone unmistakable. “Just going out? With blush and perfume? You usually just stick to lip tint.” She raised an eyebrow, clearly enjoying Wonyoung's discomfort. “You’re not by any chance going to meet Yujin, are you?” 

Wonyoung’s ears immediately turned red, the embarrassment creeping up her neck. “No, I’m not!” she said, rushing her words as she swung the door open. 

“Hmm, okay, whatever you say,” Yunmi chuckled softly, leaning back in her chair. “Have fun, sweetheart.” 

***

Wonyoung approached Yujin, feeling a little excited but trying to keep her cool. As she neared him, Yujin smiled widely and said, "You look different today." Her cheeks warmed slightly at the compliment, knowing Yujin was noticing the effort she’d put into her appearance. She wasn’t just trying to look good for him — she wanted to feel confident, more like herself. 

"What do you mean, different?" Wonyoung asked, teasing a little, curious about what he would say next. 

Yujin stared at her, trying to find the right words. What’s that term again? His mind raced. He’d heard it somewhere recently, something about glowing skin and hydration being trendy. Hydration... boost? Glowy? No... What is that word? He was racking his brain for the exact term — plump! That was it. Her face looked...plump! But before he could catch himself, the wrong word slipped out. 

“Puffy!” 

Wonyoung's smile immediately disappeared, and her eyes widened in disbelief. Puffy? Did he really just say that? 

Without a word, she swung her bag and lightly hit him in the arm before turning on her heel and speed-walking away, her heels clicking furiously on the pavement. "What? What did I do?" Yujin called after her, clearly confused, rushing to catch up. 

Meanwhile, Wonyoung’s thoughts were spinning in frustration. I got dressed up, spent time putting on makeup, and he thinks my face is swollen? She couldn’t believe it. All that effort, just to be called puffy. 

Yujin, still clueless followed her, trying to figure out what he'd done wrong. 

As Yujin hurried after Wonyoung, still rubbing his arm where her bag had smacked him — not so lightly — he suddenly realized what had gone wrong. Plump! That was the word. Not puffy. His eyes widened in sudden panic as he quickened his steps, trying to catch up. 

"Wonyoung, wait!" he called, a little out of breath. She didn’t slow down, still clearly offended. 

When he finally reached her, he blurted out, “Plump! I meant to say plump! You know, like... hydrated and glowy? Not puffy, I swear!” 

She stopped in her tracks and turned to face him, still fuming but now more bewildered than anything. She crossed her arms, glaring at him. "Plump?" she echoed, raising an eyebrow. 

Yujin scratched the back of his neck, feeling cornered. “Yeah, like, the good kind! Like your skin is... I don’t know, but you look... really pretty today. Really,” he added, this time more softly, with a more sincere tone. 

Wonyoung’s glare softened just a little, though she was still annoyed. But the fact that Yujin had genuinely scrambled to explain himself, in the dorkiest way possible, was kind of... cute? Maybe? 

Still, she wasn’t letting him off that easily. “You need to work on your compliments,” she muttered, but her steps had slowed, and her annoyance was fading as they walked side by side again. 

Yujin, relieved she wasn’t speeding away anymore, nodded eagerly. “I’ll do better next time, I promise!” 

***

Yujin and Wonyoung sat across from each other in the elegant restaurant.

Wonyoung glanced around, impressed by the decor, her eyes sparkling as she took it all in. “This place looks really nice,” she said, her voice soft but full of approval. “And expensive.” 

He smiled, leaning back in his chair with a hint of pride. “I wouldn’t take you to a place that’s not nice. And the food here is amazing,” he said, as if it was obvious. “You deserve the best.” 

Wonyoung’s lips twitched into a smile, appreciating the effort. Soon, the waiter brought their dishes — traditional Korean foods, a variety of flavorful banchan, and steaming hot jjigae that smelled like home. 

As they started eating, Yujin observed Wonyoung carefully, thinking back to his frantic online searches. He’d spent hours trying to figure out why a woman like Wonyoung suddenly got mad, sometimes for no clear reason. One search in Naver had suggested it might be hormonal — maybe she was on her period — or maybe she was just hungry. Hangry, they called it. Angry and hungry. 

That must be it, he thought, watching as Wonyoung elegantly lifted her chopsticks. Maybe that’s why she kicked his bike, angry when Haewon is around, and earlier... well, the whole “puffy” comment. All those times she seemed to snap at him — she had probably just needed food. 

Right, he mentally nodded. From now on, I’ll make sure she’s well-fed. 

But there was something else Yujin couldn’t shake off. Lately, whenever Wonyoung looked at him, she quickly avoided his gaze, almost shy. When their hands accidentally brushed, she jumped a little, as if the contact surprised her. She hadn’t been like that before. Back then, she seemed more... comfortable around him. But now? It was like there was a tension he couldn’t quite place, and it worried him. 

Are my chances slipping away? he wondered, a small knot forming in his chest. He needed to make more effort — be more thoughtful, make her smile more. He couldn’t let this weird distance between them grow. 

As he glanced up at Wonyoung, he noticed her eyes flicker toward him before she quickly looked back down at her food. He couldn’t help but feel like time was running out, like he needed to win her over before she drifted further away. 

“So, uh, how’s the food?” Yujin asked, trying to break the silence. 

Wonyoung smiled slightly, still focused on her plate. “It’s good. You were right, the food is delicious.” 

Yujin felt a tiny surge of relief. He didn’t have the words yet to fix things, but at least, for now, she was here with him. Maybe food is really what Wonyoung needs. 

During their lunch, Wonyoung started to notice the sheer amount of food laid out on the table. Every dish looked delicious, but there was way more than what two people could normally eat. She raised an eyebrow, leaning slightly toward Yujin with a playful smirk. "Yujin, why did you order so much food? Are you trying to fatten me up or something?" 

Yujin froze for a second, his mind racing. He remembered reading that anything related to a woman's body could be a sensitive topic. He didn't want to accidentally offend her, but then again, he couldn’t leave the question hanging. Finally, after an awkward pause, he blurted out, “Uh… I like you no matter what you look like.” 

Wonyoung was caught off guard. Her heart stuttered at his words, sending a small shock through her. Before she could react, she accidentally choked on her food, her throat tightening as she tried to catch her breath. 

Without hesitation, Yujin rushed to her side, quickly moving to sit beside her. He handed her a glass of water and began gently rubbing her back, soothing her coughs. "Hey, are you okay?" he asked, his voice full of concern. Wonyoung nodded, still recovering, but as he continued to caress her back, she noticed her body stiffen even more. 

There it was again — Yujin’s touch, too close, too intimate. Her heart raced as her cheeks burned red. Wonyoung tried to steady her breathing, but her skin felt electrified under his touch. When Yujin noticed how flushed her face was, he leaned closer, frowning with concern. “You’re really red. Do you have a fever?” 

Before she could answer, he placed the back of his hand on her forehead, then brushed it lightly over her neck. Wonyoung froze completely, her pulse quickening even more. She could feel every inch of her skin reacting to his closeness, a warm shiver running down her spine. 

As Yujin stayed oblivious, gently checking her temperature, Wonyoung's mind raced. Why am I reacting like this? Why does he have to be so close?  She felt her heart beating loud in her ears, the moment feeling far more intense than she was prepared for. Yujin’s clueless concern and proximity were enough to throw her completely off balance, leaving her more flustered than ever. 

After their lunch, Yujin, feeling confident, walked ahead of Wonyoung to hold the door for her like a gentleman. As he pushed the door to let her out, Wonyoung, without realizing his intention, pulled the door at the same time. The door edge hit Yujin squarely in the face.

“Ow!” Yujin exclaimed, stepping back and rubbing his nose, eyes squinting in pain. 

Wonyoung, stunned, gasped. “Oh my god, are you okay?” 

Yujin winced but nodded, trying to play it cool. “Yeah, yeah, I’m fine. Just… didn’t expect the door to fight back.” He chuckled awkwardly, but Wonyoung’s concerned face made him feel a bit embarrassed. 

After the small commotion and making sure Yujin was okay, they strolled around the neighborhood, the awkwardness from earlier forgotten. As they passed a convenience store, Yujin spotted the ice cream section and grinned. 

“We definitely need something sweet after that.” he joked, referencing their earlier meal and the door incident.

Wonyoung smiled and shook her head, following him inside. They both grabbed ice cream, and Yujin paid before they continued their walk, licking their cones like kids. 

Soon, they ended up at a nearby park, where they found a quiet bench under a tree. Yujin stretched out his legs and sat down, patting the spot next to him. “This place is nice,” he said, glancing at Wonyoung as she sat beside him. 

Wonyoung nodded, quietly enjoying her ice cream. The calm atmosphere made her relax a bit, and as she looked at Yujin beside her — him being casual and goofy — it warmed her heart. She felt the flutter in her chest again, realizing how much she was starting to like these moments with him. 

At the mall, Yujin and Wonyoung wandered into several stores. Their first stop was a quirky accessory store. Yujin immediately gravitated towards the display of hats, trying on a large, ridiculous cowboy hat and posing dramatically. Wonyoung chuckled at his antics, shaking her head but unable to hide her amusement. “How do I look?” Yujin asked, tipping the hat with exaggerated flair. 

“Like a lost cowboy in Seoul,” Wonyoung teased, smirking. 

They continued exploring, stopping at a gadget store where Yujin’s eyes lit up as they passed shelves filled with the latest gaming gear. Wonyoung watched as he excitedly inspected a new gaming mouse, listening to him ramble about its specs. Though she didn’t fully understand, she found his passion endearing. Afterward, they stumbled upon a photo booth. Yujin, always the playful one, pulled her in. “Come on, let’s take some photos!” 

Wonyoung hesitated for a moment, her heart fluttering at the thought of posing together, but she eventually agreed. Inside the booth, they made a series of goofy faces for the first few photos — Wonyoung sticking her tongue out, Yujin giving a dramatic thumbs up. But the last picture caught them mid-laugh, their faces close together, natural and carefree. Wonyoung blinked at the resulting picture, her smile lingering longer than usual. There was something innocent and real about the moment, and she tucked the printed photos into her bag, feeling her cheeks warm. 

As the day continued, they stopped by a clothing store where Yujin playfully picked out an outfit for her. “This would look good on you,” he said, holding up a flowy dress. 

“Are you a fashion expert now?” 

At the cinema, they chose a lighthearted romantic comedy. As the movie began, Yujin made the occasional goofy comment, earning quiet giggles from Wonyoung. During one of the romantic scenes, she found herself feeling slightly awkward — her heart racing for reasons she didn’t want to admit. Yujin’s arm casually rested on the armrest between them, and Wonyoung, feeling the soft tension, leaned in ever so slightly, trying to act casual. Their hands brushed while reaching for the popcorn, and though it was a small moment, Wonyoung felt her breath catch. It was silly — this was Yujin after all, the guy who teased her endlessly and wore a cowboy hat earlier — but there was something else there, something she couldn’t shake off. 

As they left the cinema, walking back to the neighborhood, dusk had settled. The soft evening light bathed the streets in a golden hue, and the two walked side by side, chatting about the funniest scenes from the movie. Yujin mimicked one of the characters, making Wonyoung laugh aloud. She couldn’t remember the last time she’d had such a relaxed, fun day. Her heart felt light, and even though there was an undeniable undercurrent of new feelings brewing, she let herself enjoy the moment. 

When they reached Yujin’s house, he suddenly stopped. “Wait,” he said, grabbing her wrist gently before leading her around the back of his house. 

Wonyoung followed, curious as to what he was up to. As they turned the corner, she saw a small structure that looked like a large doghouse. It was well-made, almost cozy, with a sloped roof and a small opening.  

She tilted her head and asked, “What is this? Do you have a pet or something?” 

“It’s for stray animals,” he said casually, as though it was the most natural thing in the world. He crouched down, gently lifting a small door on the roof of the structure and reaching inside. Wonyoung followed his gaze, noticing three bowls neatly stacked inside the house, each with a small compartment for food and water. One of the bowls was still filled with water. 

Yujin took out a tupperware from the small door and opened it, and began filling the bowls with food. As he did, he continued speaking, unaware of how deeply Wonyoung was watching him. “I built this when I was in highschool, so they have a place to stay when it rains or gets cold,” he explained, gently setting the bowls down one by one. He placed them carefully, making sure the food was evenly spread out and easy to reach. "I leave food for them whenever I am here, I tell my mom to refill these too when she can. It's mostly cats that come by, but sometimes stray dogs too." 

Wonyoung stood in silence for a moment, her heart swelling as she processed what she was seeing. There was something so quietly noble about it. He built this house for them. The thought struck her hard, and she suddenly found herself feeling something deep in her chest. Most people don’t even notice stray animals, let alone go out of their way to build them a shelter. Yujin hadn’t just provided food; he had made sure they had a safe place to rest, something warm and dry. 

As Yujin stood up, dusting his hands off, oblivious to how deeply it was affecting her. Wonyoung followed suit, her thoughts running wild. He’s so thoughtful. So caring. She felt a lump in her throat as she realized just how different Yujin was from anyone she had ever met. He’s so much more than just the carefree, playful guy I thought he was. He’s kind, quietly taking care of things no one else notices. The realization hit her like a wave. His heart was pure, his soul untainted by the superficial things that so many people around them seemed to care about. How could someone so young be so… selfless? Her eyes softened as she watched him, realizing that this wasn’t just a random act of kindness — it was a part of who he was. Her heart fluttered as she realized that, with every passing moment, Yujin was quietly becoming more important to her. And that realization made her feelings for him deepen even more.

As they started walking away from the small shelter, Yujin began talking again, lighthearted as always. But Wonyoung’s thoughts were elsewhere. She was overwhelmed by the quiet kindness he had shown — the kind of kindness that wasn’t loud or flashy but spoke volumes about his character. It was in everything he did, from taking care of stray animals to paying attention to the small details in their time together. 

She looks at him in a different light. “You are the nicest person I’ve ever met.” 

Yujin shook his head. “I just think it’s the right thing to do,” he shrugged, as though it was no big deal. “They need food, and I don’t want them to be out in the rain.”

As she walked beside him, listening to his playful chatter, she stole another glance at him, his silhouette framed by the dimming light of the evening. She smiled softly, wondering if he even knew how deeply he was affecting her.  

Chapter Text

Giselle was sprawled on Wonyoung’s bed, scrolling through her phone lazily, while Wonyoung sat cross-legged on the carpet, flipping through some of Yujin’s notes she hadn’t touched in the past hour. Instead, she was too caught up talking about Yujin. 

“You know,” Wonyoung began, her voice tinged with an excitement she didn’t even realize was there, “he’s so thoughtful. Like, he went out of his way to build that shelter for stray animals. Who even does that? He didn’t just toss them scraps or leave them out in the rain — he actually built something for them.” 

Giselle hummed distractedly, her eyes still glued to her phone. “Uh-huh.” 

“And he’s so funny,” Wonyoung continued, her voice picking up momentum. “I mean, yeah, he says dumb stuff sometimes, but it’s so genuine, you know? Like, he’s just… himself. And the way he tries so hard? Like when he brought all that food during lunch the other day for us — he didn’t even have to! But he just wanted to make sure I wasn’t hungry.” 

Giselle’s lips quirked into a small smirk, though she didn’t say anything yet. 

“And then there’s how he—” Wonyoung paused, momentarily flustered as she recalled how Yujin had gently touched her forehead to check if she was flushed after she choked on her food. Her cheeks warmed slightly at the memory, but she quickly covered it up. “I mean, he’s just so considerate. Most guys wouldn’t even think of doing half the things he does.” 

Giselle’s smirk grew wider, and she finally set her phone down, propping herself up on her elbow to look at Wonyoung properly. Her eyes sparkled with teasing mischief as she rested her chin in her palm, watching her friend intently. 

Wonyoung didn’t notice at first. She was still talking, her hands gesturing as she described Yujin’s most recent efforts to make her smile. “And, like, even when he’s clueless, it’s so — what? Why are you looking at me like that?” 

“You do realize you’ve been talking about Yujin for half an hour straight, don’t you?” 

Wonyoung froze, her words caught in her throat. “I — what? No, I haven’t,” she stammered, though the heat creeping up her neck betrayed her. 

“You have,” Giselle said, laughing now. “And you’re still going. Like, seriously, do you even hear yourself right now?” 

Wonyoung’s mouth opened and closed, searching for a defense. “I—I was just saying he’s really nice and kind,” she managed to squeak out.

“Right,” Giselle drawled, sitting up fully now, her grin stretching even wider. “Nice, kind, thoughtful, funny, considerate — should I keep going, or are you going to tell me what you really think about him?” 

Wonyoung’s cheeks burned as she grabbed a nearby pillow and threw it at Giselle. “Shut up!” 

Giselle caught the pillow with ease, laughing even harder. “Oh my gosh, Wonyoung. You’ve got it bad! Just admit it already.” 

“I don’t!” Wonyoung shot back, though her words lacked conviction. She hugged another pillow to her chest, trying to hide the way her heart was racing. Do I? She shook her head quickly, her lips pressing into a pout. “I’m just… pointing out that he’s a good person, that’s all.” 

“Uh-huh,” Giselle teased, lying back on the bed again. “Keep telling yourself that. But let me know when you’re ready to confess. I’ll help you rehearse your speech.”  

***

It was a warm, balmy evening as Yujin walked Wonyoung home, their quiet laughter filling the otherwise still neighborhood. As they reached her house, Wonyoung turned to him, her hands clasped lightly behind her back. “Thanks for walking me home.” 

“Anytime,” Yujin replied with a grin, his hands tucked casually in his pockets. “Goodnight, Wonyoung.” 

Just as Yujin was about to leave, the front door swung open, and Yunmi stepped out, beaming warmly at the sight of the two. “Yujin! Don’t just stand there, come inside and have dinner with us,” she urged, waving him over. Behind her, Wonyoung’s father, Yool-ho, appeared in the doorway, nodding in agreement. 

“Oh, no, I don’t want to intrude—” Yujin started, scratching the back of his neck sheepishly. 

“Nonsense,” Yunmi said, cutting him off with a firm but kind tone. “It’s already late, and you walked Wonyoung home. The least we can do is feed you.” 

Wonyoung gave Yujin a look, part surprise and part amusement, before motioning for him to follow. “Come on,” she said softly, her cheeks slightly pink. “You might as well.” 

“Thank you,” Yujin said gratefully as he stepped inside, slipping off his shoes and bowing politely to her parents. The house was cozy and welcoming, filled with the delicious aroma of homemade cooking. 

At the dining table, Yunmi had prepared an impressive spread of traditional Korean dishes—japchae, kimchi stew, grilled mackerel, and an assortment of side dishes. Yujin’s eyes widened at the sight. “This looks amazing,” he said sincerely. 

“Eat as much as you like,” Yunmi said warmly, setting another bowl of rice in front of him. “You’re still growing, after all.” 

As the meal began, Yunmi seemed determined to keep Yujin’s bowl full. Every time he finished a portion, she placed another serving of japchae or kimchi onto his plate, smiling fondly. “You’re so sweet, Yujin. Like a boy with such good manners,” she said, clearly taken by his polite demeanor. 

“Thank you, Mrs. Jang,” Yujin said, bowing slightly in his seat. He leaned toward Wonyoung and whispered, “Your family is so warm.” 

As they ate, the conversation shifted to Yujin’s summer classes. Yunmi asked, “How are your classes going? Still busy?” 

Yujin nodded, swallowing a bite of rice before replying. “I’ll actually be done this week, so it’s almost over. All thanks to Wonyoung’s help, honestly.” 

Yool-ho chuckled, taking a sip of soup. “That’s good to hear. Summer should be for relaxing, but Wonyoung is a great help, isn’t she?” 

Yujin scratched the back of his neck, looking a little bashful. “Yeah… I just feel bad she’s had to worry about my grades, especially since she’s going into a full-time job at my mom’s firm for the summer. She already has enough on her plate.” 

Wonyoung nudged his waist lightly under the table, her expression soft but firm. “It’s okay, Yujin. I don’t mind.” 

Their subtle interaction didn’t go unnoticed by Yunmi, who exchanged a knowing glance with Yool-ho but said nothing, choosing instead to refill Yujin’s bowl yet again. 

After the satisfying meal, Yool-ho leaned back in his chair, eyeing Yujin with a mischievous glint. “Yujin,” he began, setting his chopsticks down. “How about we have a drink, man to man? You look like you can handle yourself.” 

Yujin blinked in surprise, glancing at Wonyoung, who looked like she was trying to suppress a groan, and then at Yunmi, whose expression was a mix of amusement and exasperation. Before Yujin could respond, Yool-ho leaned in conspiratorially and teased, “Let’s see if you’re man enough for my daughter.” 

The room fell silent for a moment as Yujin processed the unexpected challenge. Wonyoung’s cheeks turned pink, and she was the first to break the silence. “Dad!” she exclaimed, her tone both embarrassed and scolding. “You can’t just say things like that!” 

Yunmi smacked Yool-ho lightly on the shoulder with her napkin. “Don’t drag the young man into this! Let him go home. He’s been polite and respectful.” 

But Yool-ho wasn’t deterred. He chuckled, pouring himself a glass of soju. “What? I’m still her father, and I have the right to scrutinize any boy who dares to court my daughter.” 

Wonyoung’s face turned redder. “He’s not— Dad, stop it! And we don’t want Yujin going home drunk.” 

Yool-ho waved her concern away. “Oh, don’t overreact. His house is just a few doors down. Besides, it’s tradition! A man proves himself over a drink.” 

Yujin sat awkwardly, feeling all eyes on him. A part of him wanted to politely decline and escape the situation, but another part — the part that wanted to impress Wonyoung and her family — felt like this was his moment. “Okay, sir,” he said, sitting up straighter and nodding with determination. “Let’s drink.” 

Wonyoung’s eyes widened in disbelief. “Yujin!” she said, almost whining. “You don’t have to—” 

“It’s fine,” Yujin cut her off with a sheepish grin, clearly nervous but trying to look confident. “I can handle it.” 

Yool-ho laughed heartily, clapping Yujin on the back as he began setting up two small glasses. “That’s the spirit, young man! Let’s see what you’ve got.” 

Yunmi sighed dramatically, throwing her hands in the air. “Men,” she muttered, before standing to clear the dishes. “Wonyoung, come help me clean up.” 

Wonyoung shot her father a glare but obeyed, reluctantly leaving Yujin to his fate. As she carried plates to the kitchen, she peeked over her shoulder to see Yool-ho pouring the first shot for Yujin. Her stomach twisted with worry. What if he can’t handle it? What if he makes a fool of himself? 

Meanwhile, Yujin picked up the tiny glass, his hand steady despite his nerves. He clinked it against Yool-ho’s with a respectful nod before downing the soju in one go. The burn hit him immediately, but he managed not to wince. 

“Not bad,” Yool-ho said, impressed. “Let’s go for another.” 

Yujin smiled nervously. What have I gotten myself into? he wondered, glancing toward the kitchen for moral support. Wonyoung was there, peeking at him from behind the counter with a concern look. 

Wonyoung hovered near the dining table, pretending to rearrange things or collect stray utensils, all the while keeping her ears tuned to the raucous laughter and slurred chatter between her father and Yujin. She caught snippets of their conversation — something about a rock band and the importance of resilience in life — but mostly, it was filled with boisterous laughter that echoed through the room. 

Her father’s cheeks were rosy, a clear sign he was getting drunk, and Yujin, though trying his best to keep up, was laughing more than speaking now. Every time Yool-ho refilled their glasses, Wonyoung’s stomach twisted a little tighter. What if Yujin can’t walk straight when he leaves? What if Mrs. An thinks my parents are irresponsible? What if she blames me? 

Yool-ho smacked the table as he let out another hearty laugh. “Yujin! I like your guts!” 

Wonyoung winced, biting her lip as she watched Yujin grin sheepishly, clearly a little too tipsy. She was just about to step in and suggest they slow down when she felt a light pat on her shoulder. She turned to see her mother, Yunmi, standing behind her with a soft. 

“Let them be,” Yunmi said gently, guiding Wonyoung away from the dining table. “Your father is just being a father, and Yujin is being a young man. He’s trying to prove himself, not just to your dad but to you too.” 

Wonyoung hesitated, glancing back at the table where the two men clinked glasses again. “But what if Yujin gets too drunk? What if—what if he stumbles home, and Mrs. An thinks we’re—” 

Yunmi cut her off with a light laugh. “Mrs. An isn’t going to think anything bad. She knows her son, and besides, Yujin’s a grown man. He’ll be fine.” 

Before Wonyoung could argue further, her mother took her hand and led her upstairs to the balcony. The warm summer breeze greeted them as they stepped out, and the quiet hum of the neighborhood provided a stark contrast to the lively atmosphere downstairs. 

Her mother leaned against the balcony railing, her gaze soft as she looked out into the distance. “You know,” she began, her voice calm and reflective, “your father only does this because he cares. He wants to make sure that any man who shows interest in you is worthy of you.” 

Wonyoung crossed her arms, leaning beside her mother. “It’s embarrassing,” she mumbled, though her tone lacked real anger. “He doesn’t have to go so far.” 

Yunmi chuckled. “It’s his way. And Yujin… well, he’s handling it well. More than well, actually. He just wants to prove himself.”

Wonyoung’s lips parted slightly, but she said nothing. Her thoughts drifted to Yujin — how he’d taken her father’s teasing and drinking challenge in stride, how he was always so thoughtful and genuine. Even now, as he laughed with her father, he wasn’t trying to show off; he was simply being himself. And somehow, her father saw that too. 

“I know you’re worried about what others might think,” Yunmi continued, turning to face her daughter. “But sometimes, you have to trust people to handle things their way. Yujin is proving himself in the best way he knows how.” 

Wonyoung sighed, resting her chin on her hand. “He’s… something,” she admitted softly, her thoughts swirling. “He’s kind. And thoughtful. And...” 

Yunmi’s smile widened knowingly. “And?” 

Wonyoung hesitated, realizing how much she’d already said. “And... he’s a lot braver than I gave him credit for.” 

"So, Wonyoung," she began softly, "what do you feel about Yujin?" 

Wonyoung froze, her hand gripping the railing. Her mind raced, and her heart thumped loudly in her chest. "I… I don’t know," she finally murmured, avoiding her mother’s gaze. "Isn’t it… weird? He’s younger than me, and he’s — he’s my boss’s son." 

Yunmi leaned her elbow on the railing, resting her chin on her hand as she regarded her daughter with a knowing look. "Weird? Since when did you, my Wonyoung, care so much about what others think?" 

"I don’t—" Wonyoung started to protest, but her mother cut her off gently. 

"Yes, you do. I didn’t raise you to suppress what you feel or hold back from what you want just because of other people’s opinions." Yunmi straightened up, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "And since we’re talking about weird, did you forget that I’m older than your father? By four years, no less. So tell me, what’s wrong with being a little older than Yujin? If anything, it shows that age doesn’t dictate how two people feel about each other." " 

Wonyoung fidgeted with the hem of her blouse, her eyes fixed on the quiet neighborhood below. "But what if… what if my studies mess up? What if I get too distracted? What if Yujin changes after we’re together? What if it doesn’t work out? What if—" 

"Wonyoung," Yunmi interrupted, placing a hand on her daughter’s arm. "What if you try? What if it does work out? Aren’t already too distracted now, trying to convince yourself you don’t feel anything?" 

The words hit Wonyoung, leaving her quiet as she mulled them over. Her mother’s voice softened even further. "You’ve been trying so hard to hold everything together, to keep everything perfect. But you’re human, Wonyoung. It’s okay to take risks, especially for something — or someone — that makes you happy." 

Wonyoung bit her lip, her chest tightening. Could she admit it, even to herself? 

"What if I get hurt?" 

Yunmi smiled gently and pulled her into a side hug. "Then you get hurt. But you’ll learn, and you’ll grow. And you’ll know you gave it a chance, rather than spending your life wondering about the ‘what ifs.’ People will always have something to say. At the end of the day, it’s your life, Wonyoung. You have to ask yourself, are you happy? Does Yujin make you smile? And if the answer is yes, then isn’t that worth exploring?" 

***

When Wonyoung and Yunmi head back downstairs, they find Yool-ho and Yujin slumped over the dining table, empty soju bottles scattered between them. Yool-ho is snoring loudly, while Yujin is asleep.

Yunmi lets out a sigh, half-amused. "Your father always has to prove he can hold his liquor," she mutters, shaking her head. 

Yool-ho abruptly got up and, in a surprising show of drunken determination, wobbled his way to the bedroom, Yunmi and Wonyoung exchanged wide-eyed glances. 

"Well," Yunmi sighed, brushing her hands off as if she’d been the one drinking, "that’s one problem solved. Now, what are we going to do about him?" She gestured at Yujin.

Wonyoung stood beside him, frowning. “Let me try,” she offered, rolling up her sleeves dramatically. 

She hooked her arms under Yujin’s shoulders and gave a mighty tug, but the moment she managed to pull him slightly upright, his full weight leaned against her, and they both tumbled to the ground. Yujin groaned faintly, but otherwise, he didn’t budge. 

“Ugh!” Wonyoung groaned, struggling to extricate herself from under his heavy arm. “How is he this heavy? He looks so lanky!” 

Yunmi burst into laughter. “It’s no use. Let’s just call his mother.” 

Wonyoung pulled her phone from her pocket and nervously dialed Mrs. An. 

The phone rang twice before Mrs. An’s calm voice answered, “Hello, Wonyoung. Is everything okay?” 

“Hi, Mrs. An,” Wonyoung began, already wincing. “Um… I just wanted to let you know Yujin… well, he drank with my dad, and now he’s passed out. On the floor. I’m really sorry—” 

“Oh, don’t worry about it,” Mrs. An replied. “Honestly, it sounds like Yujin. My husband isn’t home yet, so I can’t send anyone to pick him up. If it’s not too much trouble, let him sleep there for the night. Don’t bother trying to move him — he’ll be fine on the floor.” 

“Are you sure?” Wonyoung pressed. “We can try to—” 

“Trust me, Wonyoung,” Mrs. An interrupted gently. “Let sleeping boys lie, especially when they’ve had a bit too much to drink. I’m sorry he didn’t drink responsibly, though. Please tell your mother I’m sorry if he’s been a bother.” 

Yunmi, who had been listening curiously, waved for the phone and chimed in. “It’s fine, Ji-Young. Boys will be boys, right? Yool-ho was probably the bad influence here.” 

The two women shared a brief, lighthearted exchange, joking about their husbands and sons, while Wonyoung crouched beside Yujin.

Once Yunmi hung up, she turned to Wonyoung. “Well, that’s settled.” 

She crouched again, gently tugging at his arm. “Yujin, come on. At least move to the couch,” she urged softly. 

Yujin didn’t even stir. He was completely out cold, his soft snores filling the room. 

Letting out a resigned sigh, Yunmi retrieved a pillow and blanket. She carefully lifted his head, slipping the pillow underneath, and then draped the blanket over his body, tucking it around his shoulders. 

Wonyoung sat back on her heels and watched him for a moment. In sleep, his face looked softer. A faint smile played on her lips as she whispered, “What am I going to do with you?” 

Chapter Text

Yujin stirred, his eyes fluttering open as sunlight streamed through the curtains. His head throbbed, and he felt an odd stiffness in his back. Blinking a few times, he realized he was lying on the cold floor, a soft blanket draped over him. He groaned, trying to piece together what had happened the night before. 

“Finally awake?” 

The gentle voice startled him, and he turned his head to see Wonyoung sitting on the couch nearby, her legs curled up beneath her. She had her arms crossed, a faint smile tugging at her lips. It was clear she had been waiting for him to wake up. 

“Did you… sleep there all night?”

“I couldn’t leave you alone.”

“Ugh… what happened?” Yujin muttered, rubbing his temple. 

“You passed out after drinking with my dad,” Wonyoung said, standing up and walking over to him. She crouched beside him. “How are you feeling? Does your head hurt?” 

Yujin winced and sat up slowly, the blanket slipping off his shoulders. “A little. Man, did I actually stay the night?” 

“Yep,” Wonyoung confirmed with a small laugh. “You and my dad were having way too much fun. He left you here when he went to bed, and you were out cold.” 

“Oh, shoot,” Yujin groaned, running a hand through his disheveled hair. His eyes widened as he processed the situation. “Wait, did your mom and dad… I mean, were they—” 

Before he could finish, Wonyoung’s mother, Yunmi, appeared from the kitchen, holding a tray with a steaming bowl of porridge, some side dishes, and a cup of tea. She smiled warmly at him. 

“Good morning, Yujin,” Yunmi greeted. “I made some porridge for you. It’ll help with the hangover. Come to the table.” 

“Oh, uh, thank you, ma’am,” Yujin stammered, scrambling to his feet in an attempt to appear more composed. He glanced nervously at Wonyoung, who stood beside him, arms folded. 

“Don’t worry, we already spoke to your mom. She knows you stayed here, so there’s no need to panic.” 

Wonyoung smiled lightly, gesturing for Yujin to follow her to the dining table. The aroma of porridge and side dishes wafted through the air, and Yujin’s stomach growled despite his embarrassment. 

Yujin let out a small sigh of relief. “Thank you, Mrs. Jang. And… I’m really sorry if I caused any trouble last night.” 

Yunmi waved off his apology. “Nonsense. You were fine. My husband enjoyed himself far too much — he’s probably still snoring in our bedroom.” 

Wonyoung suppressed a giggle, stepping closer to Yujin. “See? Nothing to worry about. Just sit down and eat before you try to head home.” 

For a few moments, they ate quietly. Wonyoung glanced at Yujin occasionally, her mind swirling with thoughts of the previous night. Despite her initial worry, she had to admit Yujin handled himself well, even earning her father’s respect. 

Yujin looked up from his bowl and caught Wonyoung’s eye. “Thanks… for staying nearby. I noticed the blanket, too. That was you, right?” 

Wonyoung’s cheeks reddened slightly. “Well, someone had to make sure you didn’t wake up freezing.” 

Yunmi excused herself to check on Yool-ho, leaving Wonyoung and Yujin alone at the table. 

“Your mom’s really kind,” Yujin said softly. “And your dad… he’s definitely something. I hope I didn’t embarrass myself too much.” 

Wonyoung chuckled, her earlier tension easing. “You survived a drinking session with him. That alone is impressive.” 

Yujin grinned, rubbing the back of his neck. “Guess I have to thank him for not kicking me out.” 

“Don’t worry,” Wonyoung said, her voice softening. “You did fine. They like you.” 

***

As Yujin finished his porridge, he sighed in satisfaction. “That was amazing. Your mom’s cooking is seriously the best.” 

Wonyoung gave a small smile. “I’ll let her know. Are you feeling better now?” 

“Yeah, way better. Thanks for everything.”

“Good,” she replied, standing up and gathering the dishes. “Now, let’s get you home before my dad wakes up and tries to rope you into another ‘man-to-man’ session.” 

Yujin chuckled nervously, rubbing the back of his neck. “Yeah… I think I need to pass on that one for now. Maybe next time again.”

Wonyoung smirked as she put the dishes in the sink, then grabbed her jacket. “Come on, I’ll walk you back.”

“You don’t have to—” Yujin started, but Wonyoung cut him off. 

“It’s literally a few houses away, and it’s early. Just come on.”

As they stepped outside, the morning sun warmed the cool air. The walk was quiet at first, with Yujin occasionally glancing at Wonyoung, who seemed lost in thought. 

“So,” Wonyoung said suddenly, breaking the silence, “this is your last week of summer class, right? Are you ready for the exams?” 

“Honestly? Not really. I still have a lot to cover.” 

Wonyoung glanced at him, raising an eyebrow. “You better not be slacking off. We’ve worked too hard to get this far.” 

“I know, I know,” Yujin replied, holding up his hands in surrender. “I promise I’ll focus. Maybe… another study session soon?” 

“Definitely. You’re not failing on my watch.” 

They reached Yujin’s house, and he turned to face her. “Thanks for walking me back. And, you know… for everything else.” 

Wonyoung gave a small shrug. “It’s no big deal. Just don’t drink yourself unconscious with my dad again.” 

Yujin laughed, rubbing the back of his neck. “Noted.” 

“Good,” Wonyoung said, stepping back. “Now go rest. We’ll plan the next session later.” 

***

Yujin and Wonyoung sat on the balcony of Yujin’s house, books and notes spread out between them. The late afternoon breeze brought a refreshing coolness to the summer heat, and the distant sounds of the neighborhood buzzed around them, though they were both deeply focused on their studies. 

Yujin scratched the back of his neck, frowning at the page in front of him. “I swear, these formulas are out to get me,” he muttered, causing Wonyoung to glance up from her own work. 

“They’re not that hard,” Wonyoung said with a small smirk. “You’ve just been procrastinating too much.” 

“Okay, maybe a little. But still. This week is killing me. I can’t wait for summer classes to be over.” 

Wonyoung nodded, flipping through his own notes. “Yeah, but right after that, the semester starts again. It’s like we can’t catch a break.” 

Yujin sighed, closing his notebook. “At least after this week, I won’t have to go back to Bamboo Dorm anymore.” 

“You’re moving out?” 

“Yeah,” Yujin said, leaning his elbows on the table. “I told my mom I wanted to move.” 

“New dorm? In Hanseong University?” 

Yujin shook his head, grinning. “Nope. Not inside the campus, just outside. A small one-bedroom apartment. It’s not far.” 

“Why not inside the university?” Wonyoung asked, leaning her chin on her hand. “It’d be more convenient.” 

Yujin made a face. “It’s all boys’ dorm, remember?” 

“Oh, so you plan to bring girls into your new apartment, is that it?” 

Yujin looked at her for a moment, then leaned in slightly, his voice dropping as he responded with a mischievous grin, “No, just one.” 

Wonyoung blinked, her heart skipping a beat as she realized the implication behind his words. He was looking straight at her. She felt a sudden warmth creep into her cheeks and quickly looked down at her notes, trying to mask her reaction. 

“Y-You’re ridiculous,” she stammered, attempting to brush it off.

Yujin chuckled softly, leaning back again, clearly pleased with her flustered response. “Hey, you asked.” 

"You? An apartment to yourself? You can’t even keep your room in the Bamboo Dorm clean, and now you want to live alone?" 

Yujin puffed up a little in defense, crossing his arms. "Hey! I’m trying, okay?" 

"Trying, huh? I’ve seen that room. It looks like a tornado went through it most days." 

"That’s not true!" Yujin pouted, leaning forward. "Besides, my mom already warned me. She said if I can’t maintain the place properly, I’ll have to move back. She’s testing me." He sighed dramatically, throwing his hands up in mock frustration. "I’m being watched like a hawk." 

Wonyoung chuckled, shaking her head. "I’d give it two weeks before she forces you to move back." 

Yujin widened his eyes in protest. "Come on! Have a little faith in me. I’ll be on top of things. Besides, I need to grow up and be more responsible." 

Wonyoung smirked, tapping her pen against the table. "We’ll see. But considering how you handle your dorm room, I don’t know if I’d trust you with an entire apartment." 

Yujin leaned closer, narrowing his eyes playfully. "I’ll prove you wrong, just watch. The place will be spotless. You’ll see it for yourself." 

"Is that an invitation?" 

Yujin blinked, realizing what he just said, but instead of backing down, he grinned. "Maybe it is. You can come over, anytime you like." 

Wonyoung rolled her eyes but smiled. "Sure, when I see your spotless apartment, I’ll believe it. Until then, good luck." 

As Wonyoung diligently copied Yujin's notes, making them clearer and easier for him to understand, she glanced over at him. Yujin had fallen asleep, lying on the wooden table with his head resting on his folded arms. A soft smile tugged at the corner of her lips. It was almost funny to her — studying really wasn’t his thing. 

Wonyoung stifled a chuckle, shaking her head. "Of course, you’d fall asleep," she whispered to herself, amused. 

But instead of waking him up, she felt an unexpected calm settle over her. The breeze on the balcony was cool, and the gentle rustling of the trees around them made the moment feel serene. Without really thinking about it, Wonyoung shifted in her seat and laid down beside him on the long table. She didn’t know why — maybe it was the calm atmosphere, or maybe she just wanted to share in his peacefulness — but it felt right. The warmth of the wood beneath her cheek, the soft sound of Yujin’s breathing, and the quietness around them all made her feel at ease. 

For a while, she just stared at him. His face, so close to hers now, was peaceful with no traces of the teasing energy he usually exuded. Her heart fluttered slightly as she took in the moment, enjoying the simplicity of just being there with him. 

Suddenly, Yujin’s eyelids fluttered open. His dark eyes blinked in confusion before focusing on her, their faces just inches apart. For a split second, neither of them moved, just staring at each other in surprise. 

Yujin's lips curled into a lazy grin as he noticed how close she was. “If you wanted to get this close,” he murmured, voice still a little groggy, “you could’ve just told me, Wonyoung.” 

Wonyoung’s eyes widened in surprise, and her face flushed a light pink. She sat up quickly, trying to escape the teasing moment, but before she could move far, she felt Yujin's hand gently grab her wrist, pulling her back down beside him. 

“Hey—” she started to protest, but Yujin chuckled softly, keeping his hold on her. 

“Where do you think you’re going?” he teased, his grin widening. “You started this. Stay for a bit.” 

Wonyoung’s heart raced at the closeness. She squirmed slightly, feeling both flustered and amused by how bold he was being. “Yujin, seriously, let go.” 

“Not until you admit you wanted to lie down with me,” Yujin said playfully, his teasing voice sending shivers through her. His thumb brushed lightly against her wrist, and Wonyoung could feel the heat rising to her cheeks again. 

“I didn’t—” 

“Liar.”

Wonyoung gave up, rolling her eyes dramatically. “Fine, maybe I did. Happy now?” 

“Very,” Yujin said, releasing her wrist but keeping her close beside him. He lay back down on the table, hands behind his head, looking up at the sky. “It’s nice, right? Peaceful.” 

Wonyoung, still flustered but also unable to hide her small smile, lay back down too, this time willingly. As the quiet settled over them again, she felt her earlier embarrassment fade, replaced by the warmth of being so close to Yujin. 

As she tried to shake off the awkwardness of lying so close to Yujin, she grabbed her pen, switching to her stomach and returned to writing his notes, though a small smile tugged at her lips. Yujin, still grinning from their playful banter, stretched his arms and sat up properly. 

"Alright, alright, back to work," he muttered, but the teasing spark in his eyes hadn't faded. His fingers drummed lazily on the table as he glanced sideways at Wonyoung, who was focused on copying his notes. 

"Hey," Yujin leaned over slightly, as if to whisper a secret, "I think you should write slower... Just in case I don't get it." 

Wonyoung snorted, rolling her eyes at his obvious attempt to prolong the moment. "Focus, Yujin. This is your last week of summer classes. Don't make me regret helping you." 

***

The celebration was in full swing at Yujin’s house, with laughter echoing through the living room. Giselle, Liz, and Seulwoo were all there, chatting excitedly as they praised Yujin for acing his summer exams. It had been a long road of late-night studying and endless cramming, but Yujin had pulled through. His parents, Ji-Young and Woo-bin, were ecstatic, visibly proud of their son’s newfound diligence. 

"This is honestly a miracle," Ji-Young said, half-joking. "Maybe Yujin has hope after all!" 

Yujin’s face turned bright red as everyone burst into laughter. Even Wonyoung couldn’t help but giggle at how flustered he looked. Yujin rubbed the back of his neck, trying to downplay the attention. His eyes met Wonyoung’s across the room, and she gave him a soft smile, a quiet acknowledgment of their shared efforts that had gotten him here. 

Soon, Ji-Young and Woo-bin excused themselves, heading upstairs to sleep. “You kids don’t stay up too late.”

The party continued, but now it moved to Yujin’s room. Wonyoung had never been inside, despite visiting his house numerous times. They’d always studied in the living room, the kitchen, or the balcony. Now, standing at the threshold of his room, she couldn’t help but feel a little curious. 

As she stepped inside, Wonyoung looked around and was surprised at how neat everything was. The deep blue bedsheets were neatly tucked in, the room spacious and well-organized. "Wow, I didn’t expect this," she mused out loud. 

Giselle, who had walked in behind her, chuckled. "Right? I expected more chaos." 

"Maybe his mom cleaned it," Seulwoo teased, earning a playful shove from Yujin. 

"Hey, I keep it clean!" Yujin protested, though the pink on his ears gave him away. "And yeah, maybe she helped a little." 

Wonyoung’s gaze traveled across the room. The familiar gaming setup from the Bamboo dorm had found its new home here, complete with monitors and a high-end keyboard. She spotted his guitar propped up in one corner and the piano against the wall — items she had seen before. 

Yujin’s room felt different from the rest of the house. It was his space, where he was truly himself, away from expectations or pressure. “So this is where you spend your time when you’re not at the café or gaming?” 

Yujin, still embarrassed from all the attention earlier, shrugged and grinned. “Yeah, I guess. Not a bad place, right?” 

***

In Yujin’s room, the night started lighthearted as they all gathered around his PS5, the room filling with laughter and playful banter. Yujin, sitting cross-legged on the floor, grinned as he handed out controllers, “Alright, who thinks they can beat me this time?” 

Liz, already tipsy from the drinks, waved her hand dramatically, “I’ll take you down, Yujin, just you wait.” 

As the game progressed, the teasing began. Liz, a little too curious, stumbled over to Yujin’s wardrobe and flung it open without warning. “Let’s see what this boy’s hiding in here,” she slurred, pulling out a random t-shirt. She scrunched her nose with a playful smile. “Oh my God, Yujin, this style is so… childish. What are you? A high schooler?” She waved the shirt around like a flag, giggling as everyone laughed. 

Seulwoo joined in, shaking his head in mock dismay. “Honestly, Yujin, your fashion sense is just... tragic.” His eyes gleamed with mischief, and he turned to Wonyoung. “Wonyoung, don’t you agree? Look at this guy’s wardrobe! It’s a disaster.” 

Yujin, pretending to look hurt, pouted, “Hey! What’s wrong with my style? Comfort over fashion!” 

But Wonyoung, sitting beside Yujin, straightened up and surprised everyone by defending him. “Actually,” she said, crossing her arms, “if Yujin is comfortable in his style, then that’s all that matters. It’s what makes him, well… Yujin.” 

There was a beat of silence before the room erupted into teasing. Giselle raised an eyebrow, grinning. “Whoa, Wonyoung, that’s awfully sweet of you.” 

Liz, barely holding back her laughter, pointed at Wonyoung. “Look at you, coming to his rescue! You’re totally down bad for him!” 

Wonyoung’s face flushed a deep shade of pink. “What? No! Shut up, Liz!” she protested, flustered, immediately covering her face with her hands as the teasing continued. 

Seulwoo chuckled, nudging Yujin. “Dude, are you hearing this? Wonyoung’s out here defending your tragic wardrobe. You better keep her around.” 

Yujin laughed along with them, but his mind raced. Was Wonyoung really starting to like him too? The way she jumped to his defense, the way she blushed… His heart skipped a beat, but he quickly shook his head, not wanting to get ahead of himself. No way, he thought. Don’t overthink it. 

Meanwhile, Wonyoung’s face was still buried in her hands, her inner thoughts racing. Ugh, Giselle and Liz should seriously shut up! But beneath the embarrassment, she felt a warmth she couldn’t quite shake. 

***

Wonyoung and Yujin were sitting on the floor, their backs resting comfortably against the cool wall, a little removed from the action. Seulwoo, Liz, and Giselle were fully immersed in a heated game on Yujin’s PS5, with Liz dominating the match, her skills clearly surprised everyone. 

As the sounds of the game filled the room, Yujin glanced sideways at Wonyoung. The mood between them felt calm yet charged, a subtle shift from their usual teasing. “You know,” Yujin started, keeping his voice low so only she could hear, “this summer… it’s been different. All because of you.” He chuckled, his eyes soft with gratitude. “And the whole semester too, to be honest. Now I’ll actually be a regular third-year college student — with no failing grades.” 

Wonyoung smiled at his sincerity, the warmth of his words reaching her, but she couldn’t resist teasing him. “Things changed for me too,” she said, her lips curving into a playful smirk. “Because someone’s been annoying me all the time.” 

Yujin’s face flushed a little. “Sorry,” he muttered, feigning a pout. Then, with his signature playful grin, he added, “But you’re going to miss me.” 

“Oh? I would miss you? Why?” 

Yujin nodded, still grinning. “Yeah, you would. My family’s going on vacation to Hawaii for ten days.” 

The lightheartedness in Wonyoung’s face faltered for a second, replaced by a frown she quickly tried to mask. Her thoughts raced. Ten days? It suddenly sounded like an eternity. As the words sank in, she found herself inwardly unsettled. Why does it feel like ten days is too long? She didn’t expect to care so much, but the idea of Yujin being away brought a strange weight to her chest. Maybe... maybe this is exactly what I need to figure out what Yujin really means to me. With him gone, she’d finally have space to think, to sort out these unfamiliar emotions that had been creeping up on her. 

***

As the noise in Yujin's room finally settled and the game sessions came to an end, Liz, Seulwoo, and Giselle headed out, chatting and laughing as they made their way to the bus station. Yujin offered to walk Wonyoung home, carrying a large box in his hands that caught her attention. 

"What’s that?" Wonyoung asked, raising an eyebrow as she glanced at the box he was struggling to balance. 

"It’s for you. I’ll give it to you when we get to your place." He shifted the weight of the box, his grin widening. 

Wonyoung let it go for now, focusing instead on their walk. The quiet of the evening contrasted with the chaos from earlier, and it felt peaceful between them. Yujin broke the silence with a soft confession. 

"I’m happy," he said, his voice light, but with a tinge of sincerity that made Wonyoung look at him curiously. 

"Why?" she asked, her tone playful yet genuinely intrigued. 

Yujin shrugged but smiled in a way that was both sheepish and endearing. "I’m just always happy… especially when I spend time with you." His gaze met hers for a brief second before he looked away, as if embarrassed by his own honesty. "I’m going to miss you." 

Wonyoung felt a strange flutter in her chest, her heart skipping a beat. Before she could respond, Yujin turned to her, a playful spark lighting his eyes. "Hey, do you want to come with me to Hawaii?" 

She let out a surprised laugh. "It’s a family trip!" she exclaimed, shaking her head at the absurdity. 

"So what?" Yujin countered, grinning as he shifted the box in his arms again. "My mom thinks of you as family anyway, so it’d be totally fine! Plus, my parents are always going on about how you’ve been helping me out so much. I can tell them you’re coming. We can book a flight now." 

Wonyoung laughed again, shaking her head more firmly this time. "No, Yujin. It’s a family trip, and I’m not going to intrude." Her expression softened as she added, "Besides, I have work. I need to save as much as I can before classes start again. Once school’s back, I’ll only have time for part-time work." 

Yujin pouted a little but nodded in understanding. "Yeah, okay. I get it," he said, though there was a hint of disappointment in his voice. Still, the playful mood lingered between them, lightening the conversation again. "But I’m still getting you and your family souvenirs, no arguments." 

As they finally reached Wonyoung’s house, Yujin shifted the weight of the big box in his hands as they walked up to the front door. The street was quiet, with only the distant hum of the city lingering in the background. Yujin carefully placed the box down in front of the main door. 

He looked up at Wonyoung, a playful glint in his eyes as he said, "Goodnight... but before I go, don’t I deserve a goodnight hug? Or maybe a kiss?" 

Wonyoung crossed her arms. "Do you want me to shove this gift box right back at you?" 

Yujin held up his hands in surrender, grinning sheepishly. "I’m just joking, don’t worry. That box is precious. I really hope you’ll like what’s inside."

"I’ll open it later. You should take care on your flight tomorrow." 

"Yeah, I will," Yujin replied, still smiling. But as he turned slightly to leave, he hesitated for a moment, his playful demeanor faltering. He looked back at Wonyoung, standing there in the dim light of her doorway. "I’m going to miss you so much," he said quietly. I want to hug her right now, he thought to himself, but I don’t want to cross any lines. I respect her space. 

Wonyoung felt her chest tighten. I think I’m going to miss you so much too, she thought, but the words wouldn’t come out. She wasn’t ready to admit that, not out loud, not yet. Instead, she swallowed her feelings and said with a small, soft smile, "Don’t forget me, okay?" 

"Impossible." He gave her one last smile, waved, and turned to walk away. 

Her heart fluttered at his response, and in that moment, her inner thoughts swirled with unspoken emotions. He’s always so straightforward, she thought. I wish I could be as honest... But instead, she stayed silent, her feelings tucked safely away, waiting for a time when she’d be ready to face them. For now, she could only watch him leave, a strange longing filling the space between them. 

***

Upstairs in her room, Wonyoung set the heavy box down and took a deep breath, still feeling the weight of Yujin’s words in her mind. She carefully peeled off the tape sealing the box, revealing a small envelope on top of soft parchment paper. Curiously, she opened the envelope, and a small note in Yujin’s familiar handwriting greeted her: 

"Here are some things so you won’t forget me =)" 

Wonyoung chuckled softly, shaking her head at his playful nature. She continued to unwrap the parchment paper, her fingers moving with anticipation. 

The first thing she saw was an umbrella — simple but practical. A sticky note attached read: “This is your protector from the sun and rain while I’m away =)” 

She smiled to herself, knowing that it was Yujin’s way of watching over her, even when he couldn’t be there in person. She giggled lightly, imagining Yujin with his playful grin as he thought up that line, probably hoping it would make her laugh. It was so like him to find the balance between being silly and sincere, never too serious but always present in his own way. As she dug a little deeper, a neat stack of colorful envelopes caught her eye — each labeled with Open When scenarios - all neatly arranged in a little bundle, tied with a string. She already knew, with a mischievous smile, that she’d probably end up opening all of them before he even came back. Her fingers brushed over them, tempted to tear one open right now. But she resisted, biting her lip with a small smile, knowing she'd want to savor these moments later when the silence became too much.  It felt like Yujin had planned it perfectly, knowing exactly how to keep himself in her thoughts every day.  

Finally, at the bottom of the box, nestled in soft tissue, was a tiny bunny plush. As soon as she picked it up, she noticed two little dots on its face, right where her moles were. The note attached read: “To keep you company while I’m away ₍ᐢ. .ᐢ₎" 

She couldn’t help but smile to herself, touched by the thoughtfulness behind such a simple gift. Yujin had gone out of his way to think of everything — every little thing that might make her feel less alone while he was away. She sat down on her bed, still holding the bunny, her fingers absentmindedly tracing the tiny stitches on its face. Wonyoung felt an unexpected warmth spread through her. The last thing she had expected when she first met Yujin was for him to become this important to her. Yet here she was, sitting in her room, clutching a stuffed bunny that represented how much he cared, and feeling the weight of his absence before he even left. 

Yujin was... so thoughtful. She had never realized just how much effort he was putting into their relationship? Special friendship? Or whatever this was between them. All the teasing, the late-night conversations, the random gifts — everything he did, it was like he was always finding ways to make her feel special without making a big show of it. 

It wasn’t just the gifts that made her heart flutter; it was the way Yujin saw her, like she was someone worth caring for in such a meaningful way. The idea of him being so far away…suddenly felt… heavy. 

Her heart clenched a little at the thought of not hearing his goofy laugh, not receiving his random texts, or not having him around to pester her with his constant energy. Wonyoung took a deep breath, feeling a sudden rush of emotion that she didn’t know what to do with. She was missing him already, and he hadn’t even left yet. 

She shook her head, trying to snap herself out of it. No, no, this is Yujin, she thought, biting her lip. He’s my annoying, overbearing study partner. The guy who drives me crazy half the time and makes me laugh the other half. I shouldn’t— She paused. I can’t miss him this much already. But I do... I really do. 

And then, as if the thought hit her harder than she expected, she squeezed the bunny tighter, her emotions swirling. It was frustrating — this feeling of not knowing what to say, what to think. Wonyoung had always been so composed, so sure of herself. But Yujin? Yujin made her feel things she wasn’t ready to admit yet. Not to him. And definitely not to herself. 

Instead of confessing any of this, she simply whispered to the empty room, "Yujin, you’re making this way too hard." She laughed softly at herself, knowing full well that Yujin wasn’t trying to make anything difficult. If anything, he was just being himself — sweet, thoughtful, and always surprising her in ways that made her heart skip a beat. 

But she wasn’t ready to face those feelings head-on. Not yet. So instead, she muttered to the bunny, "I’m gonna miss him too much, aren’t I?" 

The little bunny, of course, didn’t respond, but Wonyoung felt the answer deep in her chest. 

With a sigh, she leaned back against her pillows, holding the bunny close. She’d never tell Yujin, not yet anyway, but in her heart, she knew — she was going to miss him more than she ever thought possible. 

Chapter Text

The first few days without Yujin felt impossibly long. Wonyoung hadn’t realized just how much space he took up in her daily life until he wasn’t there. She had spent the past weeks getting used to his presence — his constant teasing, his dorky smile, and the way he always found a reason to talk to her. Now, with him on the other side of the world, everything felt strangely quiet. 

The time difference between Hawaii and Korea didn’t help either. Korea was 19 hours ahead, which made their conversations awkwardly timed. Yujin would text her a "goodnight" when she was just about to sit down for dinner, and by the time she was finishing her lunch, he’d only just be waking up. 

Her phone buzzed, and she glanced down at the screen. A message from Yujin. 

Good morning! About to hit the beach with the fam! Miss me yet? 

Attached was a photo of Yujin, standing by the shoreline, grinning like a child, his hair tousled by the ocean breeze. Behind him, the sky stretched in brilliant shades of blue, matching the crystal-clear waters. He looked like he was having the time of his life, and for a moment, Wonyoung felt a little tug in her chest. He seemed so far away, yet here he was, trying to keep her close with silly pictures and updates. 

The next message came quickly after. 

Found a turtle! Wanna see? 

She couldn’t help but smile, shaking her head. It was always something with him. Opening the photo, she saw Yujin kneeling beside a massive sea turtle on the beach, its shell gleaming under the sun. His face was full of excitement, and she could almost hear his voice in her head, probably rambling about how cool the turtle was. 

As the days passed, Wonyoung found herself looking forward to their brief windows of conversation. The time difference made it difficult — they could only really talk during her lunch break, when Yujin was just waking up. But he made sure to send her pictures whenever he could. Photos of the Hawaiian beaches, plates of tropical food, and selfies of him with the sun setting behind him. 

Every picture he sent tugged at her heart a little more. She didn’t realize how much she missed him until now. 

She sighed, staring at the latest photo. It was of Yujin, holding a huge coconut drink with a straw, giving her a thumbs-up. 

Wish you were here. Would’ve been fun with you, he had typed beneath the picture. 

And as much as she hated to admit it to herself, she was starting to miss him. 

Wonyoung found herself sitting on her bed, staring at the now half-empty box that Yujin had given her. Only five days had passed, and she’d already torn through all the "open when" letters he had carefully prepared for her. The first one she opened was open when you are sick, and while she wasn’t sick, her curiosity got the best of her. Inside was a small pouch of medicines, herbal teas, and a note in Yujin’s familiar messy handwriting: 

Take these when you're feeling under the weather. And if it’s really bad, text me. I’ll come back and take care of you. =)

Wonyoung laughed softly to herself. He wasn’t even in the same country, but there he was, offering to take care of her like he always did. She wasn’t sick, but the thought of him made her heart feel warm in a way she couldn’t quite explain. She placed the tea back in the box, only to eye the next envelope with temptation creeping in. 

Open when you are craving. 

Inside, she found a voucher for her favorite steak restaurant. Of course he’d remembered. Yujin, with his silly jokes and constant teasing, had quietly been paying attention to her all along. She held the voucher in her hands for a moment, feeling a tinge of guilt for opening it when she wasn’t actually craving steak. But then again, wasn’t she always craving steak? At least, that’s what she told herself. 

One by one, she began tearing into the rest of the envelopes, her curiosity outweighing any sense of self-control. The next one was open when you want a coffee. Wonyoung grinned as she pulled out a free delivery voucher for her favorite café — the same café where Yujin worked part-time. There was a note attached that said, Free food, on me. It’s your lucky day. She could practically hear him saying it with his teasing voice.

But then came the letter she wasn’t sure she was ready for: Open when you miss me. Her heart skipped a beat as she carefully opened the envelope, already knowing what she’d find. Inside was a small photo of Yujin, his goofy smile lighting up the frame, along with a simple message: Miss me yet? Because I miss you. Wonyoung found herself staring at the picture longer than she wanted to admit, feeling that familiar ache in her chest again. 

Next came open when you want to know what I feel about you. She hesitated. Her hand hovered over the envelope, unsure if she was ready to know. When she finally opened it, she found a QR code and a note: 

Scan this. It’s a playlist of songs that make me think of you. 

Wonyoung scanned the code and put on the playlist, the soft melodies filling her room. Each song seemed carefully chosen, the lyrics speaking words Yujin had never quite said out loud. And as the music played, she felt her heart stir, the unspoken feelings between them lingering in the air. 

She sifted more through the box, her eyes landing on the next envelope: open when you want something sweet. She smirked, already guessing what might be inside. As she opened it, a familiar photo of Yujin greeted her again, his goofy grin on full display. She flipped the photo over, and in his handwriting, it said: Just kidding, you can’t handle my sweetness. 

She rolled her eyes, chuckling at his cheekiness, but as she dug deeper into the box, she found an assortment of chocolates — her favorite kinds, of course. She popped one of the chocolates into her mouth, savoring the taste as the playlist he made for her continued to play softly in the background. 

The last one was open when you need to relax. Wonyoung couldn’t help but laugh when she saw what was inside: a voucher for a spa massage. Trust Yujin to think of everything. She shook her head, smiling to herself as she lay back on her bed.

It had only been five days, but she had opened every single letter. She sighed, clutching one of the envelopes in her hand. Yujin’s thoughtfulness, his care, his effort — it was all too much, yet exactly what she needed. She already missed him, more than she wanted to admit. 

Wonyoung found herself whispering, as if he could somehow hear her through the distance, “Yujin, you’re so annoying.” 

***

Wonyoung slumped in her chair, pouting like a child as she stirred her iced coffee absentmindedly. "I miss Yujin," she whined, her voice dripping with frustration. 

Giselle and Liz burst into laughter at her dramatic tone, exchanging amused looks. "You’re acting like he’s gone forever," Giselle teased, reaching over to nudge Wonyoung's arm. 

Liz added, "It’s been, what, five days? You’ll survive." 

Just then, Seulwoo walked into the cafe, sliding into the seat next to them. "What’s up?" he asked, raising an eyebrow at the girls’ giggles. 

"Wonyoung’s lonely because Yujin isn’t replying to her texts," Giselle chimed in, barely able to suppress her grin. 

Seulwoo shook his head, amused. "Yujin’s on a live stream right now." 

Wonyoung blinked, her eyebrows furrowing. "Live stream?" she echoed, glancing at him in surprise. 

"Yeah," Seulwoo confirmed, pulling out his phone to check. "Yujin streams his games sometimes. He’s probably too focused on that to answer anyone." 

Liz leaned in, curiosity piqued. "Wait, he streams? Like, with an actual audience?" 

"Uh-huh," Seulwoo said, tapping on his phone to find Yujin’s live feed. "See for yourself." 

Wonyoung leaned closer, her eyes narrowing at the screen. Sure enough, there was Yujin in his hotel room, comfortably gaming, headphones on, casually chatting with his followers. The background of his room was surprisingly neat, with a glimpse of a sunny Hawaiian view through the window. 

Giselle gasped, "He has four thousand followers? And look, a hundred and six people are watching him live right now! Your boy’s famous, Wonnie." 

As Wonyoung, Giselle, Liz, and Seulwoo watched the live stream, the comment section was buzzing with excitement. Every few seconds, a notification popped up showing donations from Yujin's fans. 

"Thank you so much!" Yujin said, smiling at the screen. He looked genuinely grateful, his dimples showing as he chuckled at something one of the viewers had written. 

Wonyoung leaned closer to read the comments. Most of them were from girls — lots of them — who flooded the chat with requests. 

"Oppa, can you do a heart cheek pose?" 

"Show us your dimples, please!" 

"Smile for us, Yujinnie!" 

Wonyoung’s eyes widened as she watched Yujin chuckle softly and comply. He posed with a heart next to his cheek, then flashed a full smile, dimples and all. His audience went wild, hearts and donations flooding the screen. 

"Aw, how cute," Liz teased, nudging Wonyoung’s arm. "Looks like Yujin has quite the fan club, huh?" 

Giselle burst out laughing. "Seems like Wonyoung has some rivals! Look at them, they're all going crazy for him!" 

Seulwoo joined in, grinning as he watched the stream. “This is hilarious." 

Wonyoung, however, wasn’t laughing. Her eyes were fixed on the screen, and the more she read the comments, the more irritated she felt. Yujin smiling for these girls, doing cute poses at their request — it made her blood boil in a way she didn’t expect. 

"Look at his face!" Liz laughed as Yujin pulled a silly expression that the chat had demanded, raising his eyebrows and puffing out his cheeks. "These comments are controlling him!" 

Giselle teased, smirking at Wonyoung. "What do you think, Wonyoung? How do you feel about all these noonas fawning over your boy?" 

Wonyoung crossed her arms, her cheeks burning with both embarrassment and frustration. "He’s not my boy," she snapped, though the heat in her voice betrayed her. 

Still, she couldn’t shake the annoyance bubbling up inside her. Why was Yujin doing whatever these girls asked? She didn’t like it — not one bit. 

Wonyoung's patience was thinning as she watched Yujin obediently respond to every cute request thrown his way. Liz and Giselle, sensing her frustration, decided to stir things up. Grinning mischievously, they snatched Seulwoo's phone. 

“Let’s see how he reacts when he thinks you are watching,” Giselle said, wiggling her eyebrows playfully. 

Wonyoung protested weakly, half-heartedly trying to stop them. “No, don’t...” 

But there was a part of her that was just as curious. What would Yujin do if he knew she was watching? She bit her lip, unable to stop the small pang of curiosity that flared up inside her. 

Liz quickly typed something into the live chat:
Pose again for us! 

Yujin glanced at his screen and laughed. “Seulwoo hyung, you’re really watching this? Man, go do something else. I know you’re messing with me,” he said playfully, assuming it was just his friend tuning in for some laughs. 

Then Giselle took it to the next level, typing in another comment:

Wonyoung noona is here, chuckling. 

The second Yujin read it, he froze. His playful expression faltered for a split second, and Wonyoung could see the moment he registered the name. His face flushed slightly, his usual relaxed demeanor replaced by a sudden fluster. 

“Huh?” Yujin stammered, his gaze quickly flicking over to the camera. “Wait... Wonyoung noona?” he mumbled, clearly confused, eyes narrowing at the screen as if trying to see through it. He smiled nervously, and then awkwardly scratched the back of his head. “Are you guys messing with me?” 

Liz and Giselle burst out laughing, practically doubling over at Yujin’s reaction. Meanwhile, Wonyoung sat there with her arms crossed, cheeks flushing. She tried to act like she was annoyed by their teasing, but her curiosity was eating at her too. 

“Let’s see what he does now!” Giselle giggled, watching Yujin struggle to regain his composure on the stream. 

Wonyoung, despite herself, felt a tiny flutter in her chest. She didn’t want to admit it, but seeing Yujin react like this — nervous, flustered, all because he thought she was watching — gave her a strange sense of satisfaction. 

Yujin leaned closer to the camera after a few moments of awkward fumbling. His lips curled into a shy smile, and he waved at the screen. 

"Hi, Wonyoung," he said softly, with a teasing lilt to his voice. "Do you miss me now?" 

Wonyoung's cheeks immediately flushed, the words catching her off guard. She glanced at Liz and Giselle, who were grinning like idiots. Meanwhile, Seulwoo was already stifling laughter, nudging her playfully. 

"Whoa, Wonyoung, they’re gonna find you now!" Seulwoo teased, making a mock-serious face. "You’re famous!" 

Wonyoung shot him a glare, but her embarrassment was hard to hide, especially as the comments started piling in on the live stream. 

“Who’s Wonyoung?”
“Does Yujin have a girlfriend???”
“Tell us about Wonyoung, oppa!”
“Oppa, smile if you have a secret girlfriend!” 

Yujin read the comments and chuckled awkwardly, rubbing the back of his neck. "Is Wonyoung your girlfriend?" he read aloud, laughing then he paused for a moment, scratching his cheek and glancing off to the side. Then, with a mischievous glint in his eyes, he added, "I wish." 

The comment made Liz and Giselle burst into laughter, while Seulwoo's eyes widened in surprise. "Oh, he’s bold today!" Seulwoo teased, nudging Wonyoung harder. 

Wonyoung’s heart skipped a beat, her face turning crimson as she shot a glare at the screen. "What did he just say?" she mumbled under her breath, barely able to contain her flustered smile. Liz and Giselle immediately zeroed in on her reaction, teasing her even more. 

"Look at that blush! Oh my God, Wonyoung, he really said he wishes!" Giselle laughed, clutching her stomach. "What are you going to do now?" 

Wonyoung, feeling her embarrassment rise even higher, tried to stay cool, but the fluttering in her chest wouldn’t stop. She wanted to pretend it didn’t affect her, but hearing Yujin casually say something like that in front of all those people stirred up emotions she couldn't ignore.

A few minutes later, Yujin glanced at his phone and sighed softly. "Alright, guys, I gotta head out," he said, his tone playful but regretful. "I’ve got lunch with my parents, but thank you so much to everyone who joined today. I really appreciate it." 

As the comments rolled in, Yujin smiled warmly, clearly enjoying the interaction with his viewers. He waved casually at the camera, and then, without warning, he winked at the screen, flashing that mischievous grin of his one last time before ending the stream. 

***

That evening, as Wonyoung was unwinding from the day, a knock echoed from downstairs. She wasn’t expecting anyone, but when she heard her father's voice calling her name, she hurried down. By the time she reached the door, her father was already holding a bouquet of flowers. 

"It’s for you," her father said, handing her the bouquet. Wonyoung blinked in surprise, her hands instinctively reaching out to take the delicate arrangement. The flowers were vibrant, a mix of soft pinks, red and whites, the kind that immediately brightened her mood. 

"Who...?" Wonyoung trailed off, her eyes catching a small note tucked within the flowers. She gently tugged it free, unfolding the paper. 

Figured you’d open all the envelopes because you miss me that much, so here you go. 

Wonyoung’s cheeks flushed immediately. It was from Yujin, of course. 

Her father watched her, a curious gleam in his eyes. "Seems like someone misses you," he teased lightly, but Wonyoung just rolled her eyes, quickly mumbling something about it just being from a friend. However, her heart was betraying her, thumping louder with every second she stared at the bouquet. 

***

Wonyoung sat at her desk during lunch break, absently scrolling through her phone when a message from Yujin popped up: 

"Open when you want to laugh. 😎" 

Curious, she opened the attachment. It was a video of Yujin, in all his goofy glory, shaking his butt and doing an exaggerated, silly dance in what appeared to be his hotel room. He was wearing his Hawaii tourist clothes — a floral shirt, strawberry sunglasses, and a straw hat — and he was absolutely committed to the ridiculousness of the routine. At one point, he even attempted a failed cartwheel, falling onto the bed, only to spring up and continue his wild dance as if nothing happened. 

Wonyoung’s hand flew to her mouth as she burst into laughter, trying her best to muffle it. Her laughter was loud enough that her coworkers turned to look at her, raising eyebrows in curiosity. 

Realizing she’d drawn attention, she quickly waved a hand and apologized, her cheeks flushed with both amusement and slight embarrassment. 

“Sorry, sorry! It’s nothing,” she said, trying to suppress her giggles, but the image of Yujin’s ridiculous dance was burned into her mind. 

For a moment, the stress of work faded away, replaced by joy. Yujin really knew how to make her laugh, even from thousands of miles away. She shook her head, smiling to herself as she sent him a reply: 

"You're such a dork, but I needed that. 😄" 

***

It was a lazy afternoon, and Wonyoung was lounging on her bed, flipping through her phone when she heard the doorbell ring. She could hear faint chatter downstairs, followed by the familiar voices of Liz and Giselle growing closer. Her room door creaked open, and in came her two friends, their arms loaded with pizza boxes, drinks, and fried chicken. 

Liz grinned as she stepped inside, shaking the pizza box in the air. "Guess who summoned us!" she announced dramatically, her eyes glinting with amusement. 

Giselle, balancing a tray of drinks, chimed in, “Yup, Mrs. Jang welcomed us in and told us to head straight to your room. You’ve got yourself a delivery, courtesy of Yujin.” 

Wonyoung blinked in surprise, sitting up on her bed. "Yujin?" she repeated, already feeling a blush creeping onto her cheeks. 

Liz handed her a sticky note that was plastered on top of the pizza box. Wonyoung peeled it off and read it aloud, trying to suppress a smile. 

Figured you are lonely 'cause you miss me so much, so I asked Liz and Giselle noona for a favor so you girls can have a fun day!

Wonyoung’s face warmed, her chest fluttering. She shook her head, unable to hide the growing smile. "He’s so unbelievable sometimes," she muttered, but the fondness in her voice was undeniable. 

Liz nudged her. "Well, he’s not wrong. You’ve been whining about missing him for days." 

Giselle plopped down on the bed beside her, grinning. "Look at her! She’s blushing!" 

"Am not!" Wonyoung protested, but her friends only laughed as they began to set up the food, spreading everything out like a mini feast. 

They spent the afternoon lounging in Wonyoung’s room, eating pizza, fried chicken, and laughing as they teased her about how much Yujin had spoiled her. Every time Wonyoung tried to change the subject, Liz and Giselle would bring it back to Yujin, mocking how “whipped” she was, despite her constant denial. 

***

Wonyoung sighed as she stood by the small cat shelter Yujin had built outside his house, refilling the water and topping off the food. She hadn’t expected to feel this way — to miss him so much that even the simplest tasks reminded her of him. Every morning before heading to work and again after, she found herself drawn to the little pet house, making sure the stray cats were taken care of, just like Yujin would have done. It was his routine, after all. And now, it had somehow become hers too. 

She thought about the past week, about how much her routine had changed since Yujin left for Hawaii. Her mornings were quieter, her afternoons felt longer, and her evenings were... well, they were empty. Every text from him had been a small burst of color in an otherwise monotonous day, and she realized now just how much she had come to rely on him to keep things exciting. 

***

On the eighth day, Wonyoung could feel the excitement bubbling up inside her. Just two more days, and Yujin would be back. The days without him had felt unusually long, and though she had tried to distract herself with work, advance reading, and hanging out with her friends, there was always that empty feeling lingering. 

At her office, a small parcel addressed to her had arrived. The packaging looked elegant, and as she opened it later that evening at home, Wonyoung’s curiosity turned into delight. Inside, folded neatly, was a beautiful light pink dress. It was simple but stunning, the kind of dress that was easy to imagine wearing on a special occasion. It had a flattering cut — short but elegant, with a soft, flowy fabric that felt perfect for her style. Her fingers brushed over the material, appreciating the thought that went into this. 

Tucked inside the box was a note. She unfolded it, and it made her heart skip a beat: 

"Don’t worry, I asked Giselle and Liz to help me pick something that would fit your style. Hope you like it!" 

Wonyoung smiled softly, imagining Yujin asking her friends for help. 

Sitting on the edge of her bed, Wonyoung held the dress up against herself in the mirror. She couldn’t help but imagine the look on Yujin’s face when he saw her wearing it. But more than that, as she sat there, she couldn’t help but reflect on how much she had missed him. 

The days had felt uncharacteristically dull without Yujin around. Without his constant teasing, his goofy antics, and the way he somehow always knew how to cheer her up, her everyday life had lost its usual spark. She missed his carefree energy, the way he was always up for something spontaneous, and how he’d make the most mundane moments feel fun just by being there.

She felt a wave of emotions wash over her — feelings she had been trying to push aside, yet they had only grown stronger during Yujin's absence. And now, she couldn’t help but think about how empty her days had felt without him. Wonyoung had convinced herself that she could handle it — that his absence wouldn’t affect her that much. But it had. It really had. 

Every night, when her phone buzzed with a message or a photo from him, she found herself eagerly checking, hoping for something that would make her laugh or remind her of how silly and sweet he was. And when there was no message — when the hours dragged on in silence — she realized how much she missed hearing from him, seeing his face, and just having him there. 

At first, Wonyoung had tried to tell herself it was just because Yujin was fun to be around. But deep down, it was more than that. His absence wasn’t just noticeable — it was felt deeply, every single day. The fun moments, the small jokes, the teasing — those little pieces of Yujin had made her days brighter, and without them, everything seemed dull. 

Sitting there, Wonyoung realized something that had been building inside her for a while but had now become undeniably clear. 

She likes Yujin. And maybe even more than that.

Not just as a friend. Not just as the boy who made her laugh or teased her endlessly. But as someone who had managed to break through the walls she had built around her heart. Yujin had crept into her thoughts, her life, and now, even when he was far away, he was all she could think about. 

She had been in denial, telling herself she wasn’t ready to feel anything for him, that she didn’t have time for it. But now, sitting here in the quiet of her room, surrounded by his thoughtful gifts and all the little reminders of him, Wonyoung couldn’t hide from the truth anymore. 

Every sweet gesture, every teasing comment, every moment they shared together — it had all added up to this one undeniable truth: she liked Yujin, maybe more than she had been ready to admit. 

And now she knew, without a doubt, that when he came back, she would tell him. 

Her heart pounded in her chest as she imagined the moment. She could see it now — Yujin standing there, probably with his usual dorky smile, maybe teasing her again like he always did. And she would finally tell him. Tell him that she had missed him more than she could ever express, that he meant more to her than she had ever let on. That maybe, just maybe, his silly persistence had worked, and she had fallen for him after all. 

Wonyoung smiled softly, her heart swelling with anticipation. She wasn’t sure exactly how she’d say it, but she knew she would. When Yujin came back, she would finally let him know that his absence had made her realize what she had been too afraid to admit all along: that she liked him, and maybe, just maybe, she was ready to let him into her heart. 

***

The day Yujin was set to return, Wonyoung received a message from him just before he boarded his flight back to Korea. 

See you soon. I can’t wait.

Wonyoung wore the light pink dress Yujin had sent her, its soft fabric brushing against her skin as she made her way to the neighborhood park. The dress felt perfect, light and airy, just like her mood — full of anticipation and nerves. 

The park was quiet in the late afternoon, golden light spilling over the trees and casting soft shadows on the ground. When Wonyoung reached the flower garden, her eyes searched for him. And there he was, standing near the bed of vibrant flowers, looking out of place in the most perfect way — tall, relaxed, and just... Yujin. His familiar face broke into a warm, happy smile the moment he saw her, and her heart skipped a beat. 

Several beats again, actually. 

It was in that moment, as she took him in, that Wonyoung realized how undeniably right her feelings were. All the confusion, the longing, the moments she had replayed in her head — everything made sense now. This was what she had been waiting for. 

Without thinking twice, she broke into a run, her excitement bubbling over. The world around them blurred as her feet carried her to him. Yujin's eyes widened in surprise, and just as she reached him, he opened his arms, catching her in a tight embrace. 

This time, unlike the moments before, Yujin hugged her back without hesitation — his arms wrapping securely around her as if he had been waiting for this too. 

Wonyoung’s heart was racing, but it wasn’t from the run. She squeezed him tighter. She didn't need words to understand how much he had become a part of her world. She just knew. 

She pulled away from the hug, her heart still fluttering as she looked up at Yujin. He gave her a soft smile, his eyes warm as they swept over her, taking in the dress she was wearing. 

“You look really pretty in that dress,” Yujin said. “And… I missed you.” 

Wonyoung felt her cheeks heat up at his words, but she managed to smile back. “Me too,” she replied softly. 

Yujin, always trying to keep things casual, rubbed the back of his neck and grinned. “Let’s go eat, my treat,” he offered, trying to turn the moment into something lighthearted. 

But Wonyoung reached out and gently tugged on his sleeve, stopping him before he could take a step. “No, wait… I have something to say first.” 

Yujin’s playful expression shifted, and he stood there quietly, his gaze fixed on her as she took a deep breath. 

“The past ten days… they were so boring without you,” Wonyoung began. “Every day felt slow, like time was dragging. It didn’t feel right — everything felt off without you around.” 

Yujin’s eyes softened, but he stayed silent, waiting for her to continue. 

“I missed you,” she said, as if the weight of her feelings had been waiting to spill out. “I missed your presence, the way you annoy me in the best possible way. I missed how you always make sure I’m home safe, how you always ask if I’ve eaten. And…” She paused, her heart racing as she tried to find the right words. “I realized something during these days apart. I confirmed what I had suspected all this time.” 

Yujin blinked, his breath catching slightly as he listened. 

“I have feelings for you too, Yujin,” Wonyoung confessed, full of conviction. “I didn’t understand it before, but now… I know for sure.” 

She took a deep breath and looked into Yujin’s eyes, her heart pounding in her chest. "I like you too, Yujin," she finally said. 

Yujin’s face lit up in disbelief , as if he didn’t quite hear her right. A small, nervous laugh escaped him, and he rubbed the back of his neck, trying to process her words. “Wait… really? Like — you’re sure? You’re not just saying that?” 

“Yeah, I’m sure.”

His grin so wide it made him look like a complete idiot - an idiot who couldn’t believe his luck, pure joy spreading across his face. “Wow. I mean — wow.” He laughed again, this time full of amazement. “I thought I was dreaming or something. You have no idea how long I’ve been waiting to hear that.” 

Wonyoung lowered her gaze. “I think I’ve liked you for a while. I just… I was too stubborn to admit it.” 

Yujin stepped closer, his eyes never leaving hers. “You have no idea how much you’ve been driving me crazy,” he said softly, a playful smile curling at his lips. “I’ve been trying so hard. But hearing you say that now… it makes everything worth it.” 

For a moment, they stood there in silence, the weight of their feelings hanging in the air. The world around them seemed to pause. Yujin’s heart pounded in his chest, but he took a small breath, gathering his courage. “Can I… can I kiss you?” 

Wonyoung’s heart raced as well, but this time it was different — she wasn’t nervous, just… ready. She nodded with a smile, her voice soft but certain. “Yes.” 

Without wasting another second, Yujin gently cupped her face with both hands. He leaned in, closing the distance between them, and kissed her softly. The moment their lips met, Yujin swore he felt the whole zoo in his stomach — nervous excitement mixed with pure joy. Wonyoung’s lips were everything he had imagined and more, soft and sweet, sending shivers down his spine. 

Wonyoung’s breath caught in her throat as Yujin cupped her face, his touch warm and reassuring. She closed her eyes, feeling the anticipation build between them. The moment their lips touched, it was as though all the walls she had built around her heart, all the denial she had clung to, finally melted away. Every moment she had spent denying her feelings for him — pushing them down, trying to convince herself it was just a fleeting crush — vanished, leaving only the truth. She liked him. She always had. And now, in this quiet, beautiful garden, she could finally admit it to herself. 

The kiss was soft at first, a tentative brush of lips, filled with the sweetness of the emotions they had both been holding back for so long. It wasn’t rushed or frantic. Instead, it was slow, tender, like a confession all on its own. Yujin kissed her gently, his lips moving with care, as though he had waited his whole life for this moment and didn’t want it to end too soon. 

It felt surreal, like every moment of yearning, every small gesture, and every effort he had made had finally paid off in the most beautiful way.  

As they kissed in the quiet beauty of the garden, the world around them seemed to blur, and all that mattered was the feeling of being together, as if time had paused just for them. They kissed again, this time deeper, lingering in the moment, both of them basking in the warmth and comfort of each other’s presence. 

Chapter Text

After their kiss, they sat down on a bench, both still flushed with the lingering warmth of the moment, their hands brushing lightly as they settled into the bench. The air between them felt heavy with unspoken words but the awkward silence that followed was undeniable. Wonyoung’s heart was thudding in her chest, and she couldn't remember the last time she'd felt so nervous. 

Yujin cleared his throat, fidgeting with the hem of his shirt. He looked like he wanted to say something but couldn’t quite get the words out. “Um…” he started, taking a deep breath as if to brace himself. His hand reached up to scratch the back of his head, a habit he had when he was feeling shy or uncertain. 

Wonyoung glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, her pulse quickening. She had a feeling she knew where this was going, but she was too shy to make the first move. She sat still, waiting for him to continue. 

Yujin, on the other hand, was struggling to find the right words. His mind raced as he glanced at her, his heart pounding in time with hers. “I, um…” he stammered again, then blurted out, “I don’t kiss my friends. Not really.” 

Wonyoung’s cheeks flushed, but she smiled softly. “Me too,” she said. She looked down at her hands, feeling the butterflies flutter in her stomach.

Another beat of silence passed between them before Yujin, still fidgeting, tried again. “So, um… are we…?” 

Wonyoung, unable to take the suspense any longer, suddenly blurted out the rest of his sentence, “...Dating?” 

Yujin gasped, his eyes widening in surprise. “Oh my god,” he muttered, blinking rapidly as if her words had short-circuited his brain. 

Just as she was about to speak, Yujin suddenly stood up.

“Wait here for a second,” he said with a grin, his voice rushed as if something had sparked in his mind.

As Yujin jogged off, Wonyoung stared after him, completely puzzled. "Where are you going?" she called, but all she heard in return was Yujin shouting, "I’ll be quick, promise! Just wait there!" 

Left alone on the bench, Wonyoung shifted awkwardly. Her mind was buzzing with questions. What was Yujin doing? Where do they even go from here? 

A few minutes later, Yujin reappeared, panting heavily as he jogged back toward her. In his hands, he was carrying two small boxes from a bakeshop? Wonyoung’s eyebrows shot up in surprise, and she couldn’t help but laugh a little at how out of breath he was. “Are you okay?”

“I’m fine, I’m fine,” Yujin huffed, catching his breath. He plopped down on the bench next to her and placed the two boxes between them. He was grinning, his cheeks flushed from running, and the boyish excitement in his eyes was contagious. 

He took a deep breath, trying to steady himself, then looked Wonyoung in the eyes. “I should ask you properly,” he said, straightening up a little. “Like a man.” 

“Wonyoung… will you be my girlfriend?” 

Wonyoung’s heart skipped a beat as Yujin opened the two boxes. Inside were two small round cakes — one was a strawberry shortcake, the other was chocolate. Each cake had the word "YES" written in icing. 

She stared at the cakes, then burst into laughter, her heart swelling at the sweet, goofy gesture. “You really got two cakes that both say yes?” 

Yujin grinned, scratching the back of his head. “I couldn’t risk getting a ‘no’ cake,” he admitted with a sheepish smile. 

Wonyoung laughed even harder, shaking her head at him. "Since you didn't give me a choice... then yes," she said, smiling warmly at him. 

Yujin’s face lit up in pure joy. His grin widened as he stood up, pumping his fists in the air and shouting, “YES!” 

Wonyoung giggled, watching him celebrate like he had just won a championship game. His enthusiasm was infectious, and she couldn’t stop smiling. She stared at him with a mix of fondness and amusement, thinking to herself how impossibly sweet and dorky he was.

This was Yujin — her Yujin now.

Yujin’s celebratory shout echoed through the park, still grinning like a kid, he turned back to her, his eyes gleaming. Without a word, he stepped closer, and Wonyoung could see the shift in his expression. He cupped her face gently, just like he had earlier, his thumb brushing against her cheek. His eyes softened as he whispered, “Can I kiss you again?” 

Wonyoung’s breath caught in her throat, but she didn’t hesitate. She smiled, her heart racing all over again, and nodded. 

Yujin leaned in, closing the space between them. His lips pressed against hers softly. Wonyoung closed her eyes, letting herself get lost in the kiss. She could feel the tenderness in Yujin’s touch, how careful and sincere he was, and it made her heart swell. She kissed him back, savoring the warmth and the quiet joy that came with realizing that everything had changed between them — finally. 

Yujin pulled away slightly, their foreheads resting against each other as they both caught their breath. His goofy grin returned as he whispered, “Best day ever.” 

As they sat back on the bench, both still glowing from the kiss, Wonyoung’s eyes drifted toward the two cakes sitting between them. She playfully poked one of them and asked, "So, are we just gonna stare at these or...?" 

Yujin grinned, "We could eat them, or... I was thinking maybe we could celebrate properly. How about we eat something? My treat."

Wonyoung raised an eyebrow, pretending to think. "Hmm, a free dinner and cake? Am I gonna be a spoiled now?"

"Only the best for my girlfriend." 

The word girlfriend sent a shiver of excitement through Wonyoung. 

Wonyoung laughed softly but quickly added, "But... wait. You know we can’t bring outside food into a restaurant, right?"

Yujin blinked and then realized she was right. "Oh… right. That’s a problem," he chuckled awkwardly, scratching the back of his head. "Where do you want to go then?" he asked, glancing around, clearly trying to figure out the next move. He then brightened up, remembering something. "Ah, I should have brought the souvenirs I bought for you in Hawaii! You’re going to love them." 

"Souvenirs? Well, we can still see them… are your parents home?" 

"Yeah, they’re home." 

"Then, let’s go to your house." 

Surprised, Yujin’s eyes widened for a second before he grinned, happy she was willing to come over. "Okay, let’s do that." 

As they stood up from the bench, Yujin instinctively reached out to help her up. Wonyoung accepted his hand, thinking it was just a gesture to pull her to her feet. But instead, Yujin didn’t let go. He laced his fingers with hers.

As Wonyoung walked hand in hand with Yujin, her heart was thudding in her chest. It felt strange but also wonderful — this new connection between them. Holding his hand like this was something so simple, yet it carried a weight that made her feel both nervous and excited at the same time. 

Is this real? she thought. For so long, she had pushed away her growing feelings for Yujin, denying them every chance she got. She told herself that he was just a friend, an annoyance even, someone she wasn’t supposed to take seriously. But now, all of that had changed. 

Yujin’s hand was warm, steady, and for a moment, she felt vulnerable, completely aware that this undefined thing they’d had was no longer just playful banter or late-night conversations. 

She glanced at him from the corner of her eye, feeling the blush rise on her cheeks. Yujin had always been sweet, persistent even, but this — this was different. There was no denying what she felt anymore, and while that realization filled her with excitement, it also terrified her. She had always been in control of her emotions, careful not to let herself get swept away, but here she was, walking beside him, hand in hand, her heart fully open. 

As Yujin walked beside Wonyoung, his heart raced in a way he wasn’t used to. He had imagined holding her hand countless times, fantasized about what it would feel like, but the reality was so much more overwhelming than he expected. He’d waited so long for this moment, pushing through her walls, her indifference, her denials.

Yujin had always been carefree, never too serious about anything, but when it came to Wonyoung, he found himself wanting to do everything right. The simple act of holding her hand felt like a huge step forward, something deeper than all the silly flirting and playful banter. And for once, he wasn’t sure what to do next. He was used to feeling nervous around her — he usually had to push himself to have the confidence to push things forward, but now, the weight of the moment was hitting him hard. 

***

Yujin and Wonyoung entered Yujin's house. His father appeared in the entrance, his eyes half-lidded with sleep. "Oh, you two," his father mumbled, barely awake. "I'll be heading to bed now, your mom’s already resting." 

Yujin smiled, “We’ll just be in my room, Dad.” 

His father waved them off lazily, not really paying attention, too tired to care as he shuffled down the hall. Yujin led Wonyoung to his room, the door quietly clicking shut behind them. Once inside, Yujin excitedly grabbed his carry-on luggage from the corner and placed it on the bed.

“Souvenirs,” he announced with a grin, unzipping the bag. "For you and your family." 

Wonyoung smiled, sitting cross-legged on his bed beside him. As Yujin began pulling out small, thoughtful gifts from his trip, she admired how he had thought of her family too. 

As she examined the foods - macadamia nuts, kona coffee, quilts, fruit preserves, honolulu cookies, honey, jams, etc. Yujin suddenly leaned over and stole a kiss, his lips soft against her cheek. Wonyoung shook her head with a small laugh. “You’re too happy,” she teased, pretending to focus on the gifts. 

Yujin grinned, his eyes sparkling as he leaned in for another kiss, this time on her lips. “I am,” he admitted with a chuckle. “I can kiss you anytime I want now.” 

Wonyoung blushed, trying to focus on the items in her lap but giving in as Yujin continued to kiss her playfully between their conversation, his excitement bubbling over in every kiss. She couldn't help but smile, gently shaking her head as Yujin’s kisses grew more persistent.

As Yujin leaned back slightly after another kiss, Wonyoung looked at him curiously. "Have you been wanting to kiss me for a while?" 

“Of course,” he replied. “Since the day I met you.”

"Really? 

"Yeah," Yujin nodded confidently. "You had no idea, huh?" 

Wonyoung let out a soft laugh, shaking her head. "Nope, I didn’t." 

In that moment, Yujin draped his arm over her waist, pulling her closer on the bed. "Well, now you know." 

***

After Wonyoung and Yujin confessed their feelings for each other, they easily fell into the rhythm of being in a relationship. They celebrated their new status by spending more time together — holding hands, stealing kisses, and sharing hugs. Their dates were filled with laughter and joy, from picnics in the park to movie nights and playful trips to the arcade. 

Their friends, Giselle, Seulwoo, and Liz, were thrilled for them. They had long suspected the pair had feelings for each other and were excited to finally see them together. 

“It’s about time, Wonyoung. You’ve been denying it for months.”

Giselle nodded, nudging Wonyoung with a playful grin, “Yeah, you were the last to figure it out, but we saw it all along.” 

Wonyoung, though a bit embarrassed by their teasing, couldn’t deny that it was true. She had been hesitant at first, but now everything felt right. 

At home, their parents were equally supportive. Mrs. An couldn’t resist teasing Wonyoung, joking that it had taken her long enough to admit her feelings. Both families liked the idea of Yujin and Wonyoung together, and there was an easy, approving warmth from them that made everything feel just right. And Wonyoung’s parents trust Wonyoung as she is at the right age already and they approve of Yujin who has been really nice to them.

***

As the summer night draped over the park, the air was warm but carried a soft breeze, a reminder that the season was coming to an end. Yujin had spread out a blanket under a large tree in a quieter part of the park, where they could hear the soft rustle of leaves and the distant hum of crickets. A small picnic basket sat beside him, though it wasn’t filled with homemade food. 

Her eyes quickly fell on the spread Yujin had laid out — sandwiches, salads, and snacks, all neatly packed but clearly store-bought. She couldn’t help but tease him the moment she sat down. 

"You didn’t make any of this, did you?" 

Yujin chuckled, looking a bit sheepish. "Hey, I didn’t want to poison you," he joked back, reaching into the basket. "But, don’t worry, I’m going to study how to make sandwiches soon." 

Wonyoung giggled, shaking her head. "I’d be honored," she said, settling down beside him on the blanket. She took one of the sandwiches and bit into it, giving him a playful side-eye. "You’ve got some serious competition with the grocery store though." 

Yujin laughed again, lying back on the blanket and patting the spot next to him. Wonyoung shifted and lay down beside him, both staring up at the starry sky. The evening felt calm, yet beneath the quiet moments, there was a sense of bittersweetness. Summer was ending, and with it, the carefree days they had spent together. 

He turned his head to look at Wonyoung. "It’s almost over, huh? Our first summer together. Crazy, isn’t it?"

Wonyoung hummed in agreement. "It is. Everything’s going to be so different once school starts again." She paused, letting out a small sigh. "I’m excited, but also a bit nervous. I don’t know how we’ll balance everything." 

Yujin reached over and intertwined his fingers with hers. "We’ll figure it out," he said, his tone reassuring. "Plus, you know me — I’m always down to help you de-stress." He grinned cheekily, making her roll her eyes. 

"Yeah, I know," she said softly, squeezing his hand. There was a comfortable silence for a moment, the two of them just listening to the soft sounds of the park and the occasional breeze. 

"So, once I move into my new dorm, I’m pretty much living on my own. Kinda independent, huh?"

Wonyoung raised an eyebrow, a teasing smile playing at the corners of her lips. "Independent, huh? So, you’ll be all grown up now, huh? Living alone in your tiny little apartment?" she teased, propping herself up on her elbows to face him. "I guess you’re not so dependent on your mom anymore." 

"Yeah, totally. I can come and go as I please. And hey, you can come and go whenever you want too. You can sleep there if you want." 

Wonyoung’s breath hitched for a moment, her eyes widening slightly before she quickly recovered, trying to keep her cool. "Sleep there, huh?" She shifted awkwardly, pretending to adjust her position on the blanket, but her heart raced. Did he really just say that? 

Yujin was completely at ease, unaware of the small wave of anxiety that had washed over Wonyoung. "Yeah, seriously. It’s my space, so no one’s gonna stop you. I’ll even make sure there’s food stocked up." He shot her another playful grin, thinking she might enjoy the gesture. 

Wonyoung couldn't help but smile, but her cheeks were slightly flushed now. She wasn’t sure if it was the offer, the idea of staying at his place, or just how casual Yujin was being, but something about the whole thing made her feel jittery. She laughed it off. "I bet you’ll be terrible at cooking, though." 

"That’s why I’ll just order pizza. Easy." He rolled over onto his side, propping his head up with his hand. "And anyway, we don’t have to cook either. You can just... hang out. I’ll make sure you’re comfortable." 

Wonyoung’s heart fluttered at the thought, even though she tried to dismiss it. She bit her lip, trying not to show how deeply Yujin’s casual offer affected her. "You really think I’d just come and go like that?" she teased, trying to keep her voice steady. "Sounds like you’ve got this all planned out." 

Yujin smiled, genuinely unaware of the deeper feelings behind her words. "I’m just offering. It’s your choice." 

"I don’t know... But it sounds nice. I’m not sure if I can afford the dorm fee for this semester," she muttered, a bit lost in thought. "The price is way too high for me." 

"That’s why I’m offering. You can stay at my dorm, my place. You can put your things there if you want." His voice was light, like it was no big deal. "I promise I won’t bother you. I won’t get in your way when you’re studying or sleeping. I’ll keep to my side of the place." 

Wonyoung’s breath caught for a moment and while she knew he was trying to help, the offer felt... overwhelming. Storing her things at his place? That was a big step. They’ve only started dating for a couple of weeks now. It wasn’t just about convenience anymore; it was about how their relationship is about to evolve. She was still getting used to being in a relationship with him, and the thought of living together, even just temporarily, made her stomach twist in knots. She couldn’t help the feeling that bubbled up inside her. The idea of staying at his place, sharing space so casually, felt like it was taking their relationship to a new level. She wasn’t sure if she was ready for that kind of intimacy — living together with no boundaries between them. She has feelings for Yujin — there was no question about that. He was kind and sweet, and there was an undeniable warmth in the way he cared for her. But... sharing a space? Living with him, even part-time? She wasn’t sure about that. Wonyoung could already imagine it, and what she saw wasn’t exactly comforting. 

He’s carefree, relaxed… too relaxed.

She couldn’t help but picture his apartment, cluttered. He’d probably leave dishes in the sink, laundry unfolded, and rely on her to remind him of everything. Would he even bother picking up after himself? She wasn’t sure if she was ready for that level of closeness, or if it was too soon for her to fully dive into a relationship that felt like it was becoming more serious this soon. 

He’d definitely rely on me, she thought, frowning slightly. And with school starting soon, I won’t have time for that. I’ll barely have time for myself, let alone keeping things in order for him. 

The idea of staying in Yujin’s space, sharing it with him, felt overwhelming. She imagined walking into his apartment after a long day of studying only to find it a mess, with Yujin lounging around in his casual clothes, probably playing his guitar or napping without a care in the world. She loved that easygoing side of him — it was part of his charm. But to share a space with him? To live in that carefree, laid-back environment? Instead of living with a mature partner. It would feel like sharing a space with a kid. A kid who happens to be her boyfriend.

Wonyoung wasn’t sure if she could handle that. She liked her structure, her plans, her routine. Yujin, on the other hand, seemed to float through life without much concern for anything except the present moment. He was spontaneous, yes, but it wasn’t the kind of spontaneity she could imagine dealing with day in and day out. 

And what about the intimacy? she wondered, feeling her cheeks warm slightly. Yujin is so good at kissing her, but his playful and casual nature still made it hard for her to take him seriously sometimes. Sharing a space would bring them even closer, and she wasn’t sure if she was ready for that kind of proximity with someone who still felt so... boyish to her. She shook her head, Wonyoung couldn’t imagine Yujin taking things further. 

A part of her wanted to see Yujin be more serious, more responsible. If they were going to share a space, she needed to know he could handle it — that he could handle her. But right now, it just felt like she’d be babysitting a carefree boyfriend who might forget to take the trash out. 

Her thoughts grew muddled, wondering if Yujin expected more from her now that they were together. She could feel herself spiraling, worrying over what she didn’t know. She hadn’t told him about her lack of experience, about how the idea of taking things further is something new to her. It was all so new, and she felt a wave of shyness at the thought of it. 

But as soon as she felt herself getting carried away, Wonyoung shook her head again slightly, determined to break free from the anxious thoughts clouding her mind. She wasn’t going to let herself ruin this sweet moment with Yujin by overthinking everything. 

She reached into the basket and picked up a plump strawberry, smiling to herself as she turned her attention back to him. "You're full of mischievous thoughts," she teased, holding the strawberry delicately between her fingers and bringing it up towards Yujin's lips. 

Yujin leaned forward with a grin, his gaze playful as he reached for the fruit. But just as he was about to take a bite, he suddenly leaned in and pressed a quick, feather-light kiss to her lips instead. The brief contact sent a spark through Wonyoung, leaving her momentarily stunned. Her breath hitched, and she felt her face heat up in surprise. Before she could fully register what happened, Yujin took a bite of the strawberry from her fingers, his lips brushing against her skin. The sensation made her heart flutter even more, the combination of his kiss and his touch leaving her flustered beyond belief. 

"You know what? When I move to my new apartment, I’ll bring my motorbike. We can go anywhere — road trips, late-night rides. You’d love it, I promise!" 

Wonyoung’s face stiffened at the mention of the motorbike, and she shook her head firmly. "No way. I’m not getting on a motorcycle. Not now, not ever. It looks dangerous, Yujin." 

Yujin’s smile faltered for a moment. "Oh..." He rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly. "I guess I need to sell it then." 

"You don’t have to do that." 

"What’s the point of having it if you won’t get on it?" Yujin shrugged, offering a small, almost sad smile. "Besides, I haven’t used it in a while anyway. I’m fine commuting now. If it makes you feel safer, it’s worth it." 

Wonyoung softened at his words, feeling touched by how quickly he was willing to change for her. She shifted closer to him on the blanket, her fingers brushing his hand before lacing them together. "You really don’t have to sell it for me, Yujin. I just... I’m scared of it. But you don’t have to get rid of something you love." 

Yujin gave a small chuckle, shaking his head. "It’s not like I love the motorcycle like that. It was just... easy, I guess. But even my mom is always telling me how dangerous it is. And honestly, that’s why it’s the first thing my parents take from me whenever I do something they don’t like. Because it is dangerous. So... maybe it’s time to let it go. "Maybe someday I can get a car," he added with a grin.

"Maybe that can happen if you don’t fail any subjects this time." 

Yujin laughed, a little embarrassed. "I’ll do my best, I promise. I won’t rely on anyone anymore." 

"Good," she said softly, squeezing his hand. "I know you can do it." 

Chapter Text

In Wonyoung's room, she sat cross-legged on her bed while Giselle and Liz lounged on the floor, flipping through magazines and chatting lazily. The atmosphere was relaxed, perfect for one of their usual girls' hangouts before school started. 

"I can't believe summer's almost over," Giselle said, stretching her arms out. "We should do something fun before we're buried in books again. How about we go swimming? Or visit an onsen and have a complete relax day." 

“Onsen during summer? Are you crazy?” Liz said.

Wonyoung smiled, though she hesitated at the idea. "I've never been to a hot bath like that before," she admitted. "I mean... I’ve never been naked around anyone except my mom when I was a kid." 

Liz giggled. "You’re missing out! It’s super relaxing. Plus, we’re all girls — it’s no big deal." 

But Giselle's eyes gleamed with mischief, leaning forward with a teasing grin. "Wait, so does that mean you and Yujin... you know... do it with the lights off?" 

Wonyoung's cheeks instantly flushed a deep shade of pink. "Giselle!" she squeaked, eyes wide in embarrassment. "Yujin and I haven’t done anything like that." 

Giselle raised an eyebrow, looking genuinely surprised. "Really? Not even a little bit?" 

Liz chimed in, giving Wonyoung a knowing look. "Still not ready? You’re 23 already. I thought you two would have... you know, by now." 

Giselle gave Wonyoung a curious look. "But seriously, Wonyoung," she said, leaning in a little closer, "Yujin hasn’t even tried a little bit? You know... like, pushed any boundaries?" 

Wonyoung shook her head firmly. "No, not really," she said, feeling her cheeks warm again at the direction of the conversation. "He’s always really respectful. We’ve kissed, of course, but... it never really goes beyond that." 

Liz nodded thoughtfully, leaning back against Wonyoung’s bed. "I wouldn’t be surprised if Yujin isn’t thinking that far yet. I mean, you two just got together. No rush." 

Wonyoung smiled, appreciating her friends' support. But Giselle, always the one to dig a little deeper, wasn’t done. "Okay, but let’s say Yujin does push some boundaries. You know, if he gets a little bolder — would you give in?" 

Wonyoung hesitated, biting her lip as she thought about it. "I don’t know," she admitted honestly. "There is some physical attraction, of course. Yujin’s tall and handsome, and sometimes... yeah, it crosses my mind. But..." 

"But?" Giselle pressed, raising an eyebrow. 

Wonyoung sighed. "He’s just... he feels so immature at times. It’s like, he’s really sweet, but I can’t always take him seriously. And when he’s being silly or carefree, it’s hard for me to picture him... well, being that kind of guy." 

"That kind of guy? So... let me get this straight," Liz said, a teasing grin spreading across her face. "You can’t imagine Yujin naked? On top of you?" 

Wonyoung’s face flushed immediately, and she grabbed the nearest pillow, chucking it straight at Liz. "Shut up!" she said, her voice a mix of embarrassment and laughter. 

Liz dodged the pillow, giggling, but Giselle chimed in with a smirk. "Oh, come on. You have to have imagined him that way at least a little bit, right? How can you not be attracted to your boyfriend physically?" 

Wonyoung hesitated for a moment, then, unable to escape their playful interrogation, she sighed. "Fine, fine. I do... a little bit." She admitted, her face turning a deeper shade of pink. "I mean... I’m gonna be 23 soon. It’s normal for those thoughts to cross my mind, right?" 

Giselle nodded knowingly, leaning back with a grin. "Exactly! It’s 2024. If you want something, you can be the bold one. Maybe you should try pushing the boundary a bit, Wonyoung." 

Before Wonyoung could respond, Liz jumped in again, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Yeah! Go straddle him or something," she teased, waggling her eyebrows. "See how he reacts." 

Wonyoung groaned, burying her face in her hands for a moment, then peeking out with a small smile. "You guys are crazy." 

But even as she laughed with her friends, Wonyoung couldn’t help but let their words linger in her mind. Could she really push those boundaries with Yujin? And if she did... how would he react? 

Then Giselle, always the playful one, couldn’t resist one last tease. "Well, when you are ready, just make sure the lights are on, so you don’t miss anything good." 

***

Wonyoung and Yujin were lounging comfortably in her living room, hands intertwined as they chatted casually. The house was quiet, her parents had gone out, leaving them the entire place to themselves. 

As they sat there, Wonyoung suddenly mentioned, "Oh by the way, your hoodie is still in my room." 

"Oh yeah, I forgot about that." 

"Do you want to take it back now?" 

"Nah, you can keep it," Yujin said, grinning. "To keep you warm from the rain or cold." 

"Oh, how thoughtful of you." 

Yujin chuckled softly. "But maybe… do you have an oversized hoodie that would fit me? We could, you know, exchange." 

"Hmm…" Wonyoung paused for a second, tapping her chin dramatically. "I’m not sure… come on, let's check. You can pick one," she said, getting up and tugging on his hand. 

Yujin's heart leap in his chest as she led him toward the stairs, her fingers gently guiding him. His palms suddenly felt clammy, and his pulse raced. This would be the first time he’d step inside her room, and the thought made him swallow hard. 

Wonyoung seemed so casual about it, but Yujin could feel every step up the stairs like the weight of the world was pressing down on him. Was this a positive sign? He glanced at her back as she led the way, trying to figure out what it all meant. His thoughts swirled, mixing with anticipation. What if something happened in her room? Should he be prepared for that? 

He could barely focus as they reached her door. His mind was a mess, his heartbeat pounding so loudly in his ears that he worried she might hear it. She opened the door, revealing her cozy space. 

"Okay, you pick," she said, still holding his hand as she guided him inside. 

Yujin took in every detail of her room, noticing how it reflected Wonyoung’s personality — modest but with a touch of maturity. The pink sheets on her double bed, the neatly organized study desk, and the vanity across from the bed all spoke of her disciplined, yet gentle nature. His eyes briefly caught the large mirror in the corner and the closed door, probably leading to her bathroom. Then there were the shelves, packed with books, each one likely read and understood by the girl who was always buried in her studies. 

As he scanned the room, Wonyoung went over to her closet, quietly sorting through her things. After a moment, she pulled out a gray jacket, walking over to hand it to him. "Here, you can have this," she said, smiling softly. 

Instead of following her to the cabinet, he sat down on the chair, trying to occupy his hands by smoothing out the jacket she’d given him. He didn’t want to push any boundaries, not yet. But still, he couldn’t help the way his eyes kept darting back to her bed and then to Wonyoung, who seemed so at ease in her own space. 

His mind was a storm of chaotic thoughts. Every inch of the room seemed to amplify his growing desire for her. The soft pink sheets on her bed — how they’d look crumpled under them, tangled with their clothes discarded on the floor. His heartbeat sped up just thinking about it. He couldn’t help but picture her there, on that bed, legs slightly parted, looking up at him with those sexy cat eyes, waiting for him to make a move. His breath hitched. What would she taste like, he wondered? He could almost feel the softness of her lips against his, and the hunger that would follow. 

Yujin swallowed hard, trying to keep his cool, but the more he thought about it, the more it consumed him. His body ached, desperate to bridge the gap between them. His palms were sweaty, and he could feel the tension building in his chest, the knot of desire so tight he wasn’t sure how to untangle it. 

But just as he was about to lose himself in the fantasy, Wonyoung’s voice snapped him back to reality. 

Wonyoung glanced at him curiously. "What’s wrong? You seem quiet." 

Yujin snapped out of his daze, blinking rapidly. "Huh? Oh, um… nothing." He quickly stood up, but in his rush, he almost tripped over the chair. 

Wonyoung raised an eyebrow, watching him struggle to steady himself. "What is wrong with you?" she asked, her lips twitching as if she was holding back laughter. 

Yujin rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly. "Nothing." But inside, he was screaming at himself for being so obvious. He hadn’t realized how far he’d gone with his imagination. His body didn’t want to leave her room — he wanted to stay, maybe even lie down with her, but he couldn’t say that out loud. He had to get out of this room, or he’d lose all control. 

Wonyoung gave him a playful look, clearly not buying it but deciding to let it slide. "Come on then, let’s go," she said, leading him out. 

As she walked ahead, Yujin glanced back at her room one more time, silently cursing himself. "Get it together, man," he muttered under his breath, trying to shake off the wild thoughts that had been racing through his head. 

***

It was a warm summer afternoon, and the group found themselves at the pool, enjoying the sun. Liz, Giselle, and Wonyoung were splashing around in the water.

Yujin, however, sat quietly on the edge, still wearing his shirt, feet dipped in the cool water. He watched them, his carefree grin never leaving his face, but made no move to join in. 

Wonyoung, noticing her boyfriend sitting out, swam closer to where he sat and tilted her head up at him. “Why aren’t you swimming?” 

"I... don't know how to swim," he admitted with a shy smile. 

Liz overheard and burst into laughter. “Seriously, Yujin? You, tall as you are, can’t swim?” She giggled, teasing him. 

Wonyoung shot Liz a playful glare and then turned back to Yujin. “It’s not even deep,” she reassured him. To prove her point, she stood up straight in the pool, the water reaching just to her shoulders. “See? You’re taller than me, so you definitely won’t drown.” 

Yujin looked down at her, his heart racing a bit. He wasn’t scared of the water, just a bit embarrassed. Wonyoung took another step closer to him, looking up with those kind eyes he adored so much. 

“Come on,” she said with a warm smile. “You can just walk around in the pool if you want. Besides... I want to enjoy the pool with my boyfriend.” 

That last sentence made Yujin’s heart melt. He couldn't resist her. His smile widened as he stood up and, with a little hesitation, pulled his shirt off. 

Wonyoung giggled softly and extended her hand to him, gently pulling him into the pool. The water splashed lightly as he entered, and she didn’t let go of his hand, guiding him closer. 

“See? You’re doing fine.” 

As Yujin waded into the water, feeling the cool embrace of the pool for the first time that day, he stayed close to Wonyoung. His fingers lightly brushed against hers, and he couldn't help but feel a little nervous now. 

Liz, ever the sharp one, swam up with a smirk on her face. “Wow, Yujin. I didn’t know you were so thin,” she teased, glancing at his lean frame. “You should eat more! You’re like a walking stick.” 

Yujin’s smile faltered, and though he laughed it off, her words hit him harder than he expected. He wasn’t insecure about his body before, but now, half-naked in the pool with his girlfriend, seeing him for the first time, he suddenly felt exposed. His tall, thin frame wasn’t exactly impressive, and Liz’s comment made him more self-conscious. A thought popped into his mind: maybe he should start bulking up, eating more, and hitting the gym to lift weights. It would make him feel more confident, especially around Wonyoung. 

Before he could respond, Wonyoung’s expression darkened. She turned to Liz and glared, her protective side showing. “Liz, shut up,” she snapped. 

Yujin, too nice to let it turn into an awkward moment, smiled softly, placing a hand on Wonyoung’s arm. “It’s okay,” he said, reassuring her, though a hint of embarrassment still lingered in his voice. He didn’t want her to worry about it. “It’s true.” But then, turning to Wonyoung, he added, “Actually, I was thinking of joining a gym soon. Maybe bulk up a little.” 

“You don’t have to.” 

Yujin chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck in that shy way he always did. “Still,” he said, “it wouldn’t hurt, right? I could get stronger, and healthier and maybe… more handsome.” He trailed off, feeling silly, but smiled at her again.

***

Yujin sat on the edge of his bed, mind still lingering on the earlier game he had played on his computer. His phone buzzed once more, but this time, it wasn't another game notification — it was Wonyoung's name that flashed across the screen. 

She had texted him a while ago, saying she was coming over. A familiar, happy rush filled him at the thought of her, but it was followed by a nervous flicker. Things had been good — really good — since they started dating. Yet, whenever they kissed, he found himself wanting to do more, to push things further. But he kept holding back, unsure if it was too soon, unsure of what Wonyoung wanted. 

They hadn’t even been dating for a month. Was it too fast to start thinking about more than just kissing? He had felt Wonyoung respond to him sometimes, like when they were kissing, her hand would slide up his chest, making his heart race. And yet, every time he thought about being bolder, he would freeze. She was his first real relationship — sure, he had flings before, but none of them felt this... important. None of them were Wonyoung. 

He let out a sigh, leaning back on the bed. His eyes traveled to the door. She’d be here any minute, and the thought of seeing her stirred up a mix of excitement and nerves. He knew she liked him, but did she want him to be more forward? His mind drifted back to some of the conversations he had with her, Wonyoung usually comments how baby he is and sometimes, it felt like she expects him to take the next step. But he couldn’t shake the feeling of wanting to be careful with her, to do things right. 

He ran a hand through his hair, thinking about the last time they kissed. He had wanted so badly to rest his hand on her waist, to pull her closer, to feel more of her warmth. His body wanted to act, but his mind always stopped him. What if she thought he was rushing things? What if she thought he was being too... much? 

Just then, there was a soft knock on his door. He shot up from the bed, his heart doing that familiar jump in his chest. 

“Yujin?” Wonyoung’s voice was soft, and when he opened the door, there she was, smiling at him. She was dressed casually, her long hair falling loosely over her shoulders.  She looked beautiful, as always, and just the sight of her made his earlier thoughts scatter. 

“Hey, you’re here!” Yujin greeted her with a grin, standing up to greet her properly. He stepped closer and wrapped his arms around her in a loose hug, feeling the warmth of her body as she hugged him back. 

“I saw your parents downstairs. They told me to just come up,” Wonyoung said, resting her chin briefly on his shoulder before pulling back slightly, her hands still lingering on his arms. 

“Yeah, they love you.” 

Wonyoung sat on the bed, casually crossing her legs, and pulled her phone out of her pocket. “Well, I was thinking… we should probably figure out our schedules for the school year. You know, so we can spend as much time together as possible.” 

Yujin’s face lit up with interest. “Oh, right! We need to see when our free time overlaps.” 

He sat down next to her, their shoulders brushing as he grabbed his phone too. They both opened their class schedules for the upcoming semester, leaning in close as they compared their time slots. 

“So,” Wonyoung began, scrolling through her schedule. “I’ve got classes in the morning, mostly from 9 to 12. Then I have some free time before a couple of afternoon classes, but they’re on different days.” 

Yujin peered over her screen. “Okay, I’ve got a pretty similar setup. Classes in the mornings, except for Fridays. I’m free all afternoon on Fridays. And… Thursdays, I have a break from 1 to 3,” Yujin added, tapping on his phone. “We could grab lunch or study together then.” 

“Nice!” Wonyoung smiled, nodding. “I can summon you anytime.”

They continued discussing the rest of their schedules, finding free time where they could sneak in lunch dates, study sessions, or just hang out. Yujin leaned back on the bed, feeling a sense of relief that they could still see each other frequently, despite the busy semester ahead. 

“This is great. I was worried we wouldn’t have enough time to spend together once school started,” Yujin said, stretching his arms above his head and glancing at Wonyoung. 

“I was worried too, but it looks like we’ll be fine. We just have to make the most of those breaks.” 

Yujin nodded, feeling warm at the thought of them sticking together despite the busier days ahead. “Yeah. And hey, if you ever need a study partner or anything, I’m here.” 

“Same,” Wonyoung replied, her tone light but genuine. She reached out, playfully poking his arm. “But I’ll probably be more help with studying than you.” 

Yujin laughed, playfully nudging her back. “True, true. I’m lucky to have a smart girlfriend.” 

The conversation drifted into lighter topics after that, as they talked about their favorite spots on campus and ideas for future dates. Yujin felt more relaxed now, knowing that they had worked out a plan to spend time together. But as he glanced at Wonyoung, sitting close to him, a familiar thought surfaced — should he be a bit more… forward? 

Wonyoung stretched out on Yujin’s bed, lying comfortably on her stomach. She rested her chin on her folded arms, her legs swinging slightly behind her. 

There was a lull in the conversation, and Yujin found himself staring at her lips, wondering if this was the moment. His eyes drifted down to the way her body pressed against the bed, and a sudden wave of warmth spread through his chest. As his thoughts wandered, he found himself imagining what it would be like to be bolder with her. 

His heart started to race as the idea floated in his mind. Wonyoung was right here, lying on his bed, looking so comfortable and close to him. Without really thinking, Yujin shifted closer and gently rested his arm on her lower back. His fingers brushed against the fabric of her shirt, and when she didn’t react negatively, he grew a little bolder. 

He slid his hand to her waist, pulling her gently toward him. Wonyoung turned her head slightly, glancing at him with a soft smile as she let him pull her closer. There was no resistance — which is good.

Yujin leaned in and kissed her on the cheek, feeling the warmth of her skin against his lips. Wonyoung closed her eyes briefly, her smile widening at the gentle gesture. She didn’t say anything, her body relaxed even more against his, as if she enjoyed the closeness. 

Emboldened by her response, Yujin whispered, “I can’t wait to hang out with you more... alone, in my apartment.” His voice was low, carrying a hint of anticipation. 

Wonyoung’s smile turned playful, but there was a trace of something deeper in her eyes as she opened them to meet his gaze. “Alone, huh?” 

Yujin chuckled softly, brushing his thumb against her waist, feeling a little more confident than before. “Yeah… just us. No interruptions.” 

Wonyoung giggled softly, feeling his warm breath against her skin. She turned her face slightly, their eyes meeting as she teased, "No interruptions? And what would we be doing?" 

Yujin smirked and kissed her again, this time on the lips, deeper, as if to answer her question. His hand rested comfortably on her waist, pulling her even closer as their kisses grew a little longer, their bodies naturally pressing together. Wonyoung felt a warmth spread through her, her fingers running gently through his hair as they kissed each other again and again. 

"I just want to hang out with you… alone," Yujin murmured between kisses.

Wonyoung smiled at that, kissing him back sweetly before pulling away just enough to look at him. "As long as you keep your place clean.”

Yujin grinned, leaning in for one more kiss before standing up. "But for now… we’ve got a movie to catch." 

Wonyoung nodded, sitting up and smoothing her shirt. "Alright, let’s go before we’re late." 

***

Yujin and Wonyoung are sitting in a dark theater, the sound of the movie filling the air as they watch the action unfold on screen. It’s a tense moment in the film, and the lead actor takes charge, kissing the lead actress passionately. Wonyoung shifts slightly in her seat, leaning in a little closer to Yujin, clearly absorbed in the scene. Her eyes flicker with interest as the actor exudes confidence, and she casually turns to Yujin, a soft smile on her lips. 

“You know, it’s so attractive when a guy knows exactly what he wants,” she says, her voice low, as though she’s talking more to herself than to him. “Like, when he takes charge without hesitation... There’s something really hot about that.” 

Yujin freezes for a moment, his gaze flicking toward her, then quickly back to the screen. He can’t help but mentally note what she said. A guy who takes charge? he thinks to himself. Is that what she likes?

Wonyoung doesn't notice the brief pause in Yujin's reaction as she continues watching the movie, but her words are etched in his mind. His heart beats a little faster. He feels a strange mix of insecurity and curiosity — wondering if that’s the kind of guy she really wants. He knows he’s not exactly the "take-charge" type, at least not in the way she’s describing. But could he be? Should he be? 

Yujin tries to focus on the movie, but his mind is running in circles, replaying Wonyoung’s words over and over again. He watches the lead actor and for the first time, he wonders if he could channel that confidence. If that’s what Wonyoung finds attractive, maybe... just maybe, he could be more like that. His fingers twitch at his side as he tries to push the thoughts away. But then, without thinking too much, he gently rests his palm on Wonyoung’s thigh, testing the waters. 

The moment his hand touches her, his breath catches in his throat. Wonyoung doesn’t flinch, doesn’t pull away. She doesn’t even seem to notice, her attention still focused on the screen, lost in the movie. But Yujin feels the warmth of her skin through the fabric of her jeans, and it sends a jolt of electricity through him. 

He flinches instead. His hand jerks back for a split second, his mind spiraling. Did I just overstep? Is she okay with this? His heart beats faster as he cautiously looks at her, but she seems absorbed in the film. He watches her for a moment, trying to gauge her reaction. She didn’t pull away. That’s good, right? 

Yujin bites his lip, feeling a mix of uncertainty and desire. So, this is okay, right? She’s not reacting negatively. But... what if I’m reading it wrong? Should I ask? Or should I just... do more? 

His hand hovers above her thigh again, trembling slightly. He’s never felt so torn. He wants to be the kind of guy who can make decisions without second-guessing himself, but when it comes to Wonyoung, it feels different. He respects her so much. Maybe I should just do things instead of asking. She hasn’t told me to stop, so maybe she wants this too... 

As Yujin rested his palm on her thigh, he leaned closer and whispered, trying to inject some of that confident, playful energy he had been thinking about. “I can be like that too, you know,” he said softly, “I can take charge if you want me to.” 

But when Wonyoung chuckled softly, it caught him off guard. She looked at him with a teasing smile, shaking her head slightly. “You? Take charge? You’re way too baby-coded for that.” 

Her laugh was light, but it struck him differently than he expected. A knot formed in his stomach, and his hand froze on her thigh, his mind spinning. Did she think he wasn’t serious enough to be the kind of guy she wanted? Did she think he was too soft, too much of a "nice guy"? Maybe she didn’t take him seriously, didn’t see him in the way he was hoping she would. Was he not enough to excite her in the way he was hoping? 

His mind spiraled for a moment. Does she not see me that way? He thought to himself, his chest tightening. The way she laughed, it almost felt like a gentle rejection, like he wasn’t able to be the kind of man who could “take charge” the way he imagined. Am I doing it wrong?

He couldn't shake the feeling that Wonyoung had a certain image of who he was — one that didn’t align with the confident, assertive side he was trying to show her. She might’ve seen him as the playful, dorky guy she met, the one who made her laugh with his carefree attitude. But did that mean she didn’t find him attractive in a more serious, dominant way? Was he not attractive enough to make her feel the way he wanted her to feel? 

His heart began to race a bit as insecurity crept in. He swallowed hard, unsure whether to push the boundaries further or retreat, afraid of making things awkward. He looked at Wonyoung’s face, wondering if she was thinking about him as someone who can’t excite her. 

***

That night, after they watched the movie, Yujin's thoughts spiraled. Wonyoung’s comments during the film about how attractive it was when a guy took charge stuck with him. He couldn't shake the feeling that she might not see him in that way — that maybe, despite being her boyfriend now, she didn’t find him as attractive or commanding as she might want. Did she see him as weak? Soft? Yujin wasn’t sure, but the idea made him uncomfortable.

When they finally reached Wonyoung's house, she turned to him with a gentle smile. "Goodnight," she said, leaning in to give him a quick peck on the cheek before stepping away. 

But something inside Yujin stirred. That wasn’t enough. He needed to prove to her — and to himself — that he could be more. As she started to turn, Yujin grabbed her wrist gently but firmly and pulled her back against him. Wonyoung let out a soft gasp of surprise, her eyes widening slightly as he cupped her face in his hands. 

Without another word, Yujin leaned in and kissed her, not gently like before but with a new intensity. His lips pressed harder against hers, his tongue slipping into her mouth as he kissed her passionately, deeper than he ever had before. Wonyoung moaned softly into the kiss, clearly caught off guard, but she didn’t pull away. Instead, she responded, her own tongue moving to meet his. 

Yujin's hands shifted from her face, trailing down to her waist. He pulled her closer, his fingers roaming over her back, feeling the warmth of her body through her clothes. His mind raced, wanting to show her that he wasn’t just some passive, sweet guy who couldn’t take charge. He wanted her to see him differently — to feel him differently. 

Wonyoung kissed him back, her hands gripping his shoulders, and for a moment, Yujin felt triumphant. Her soft sighs, the way she leaned into him — it all fueled him. He kissed her harder, his hands exploring with more confidence, feeling the curve of her waist, her hips. He was proving something, not just to her but to himself. 

When Yujin pulled back, Wonyoung's eyes were still closed, her lips slightly parted from the intensity of the kiss. She was breathing heavily, her face flushed with a deep red, and for a moment, she stood frozen, as if the world around them had stopped. Yujin could see it clearly — he had made her feel something, something deeper than before. He had taken charge, just like he wanted, and it worked. 

Smiling softly, Yujin leaned in one last time and whispered, "Goodnight, Wonyoung." 

He pulled away before she could react, leaving her standing there as he took a step back. Wonyoung’s breath hitched, her heart pounding in her chest as if it couldn’t keep up. She nodded slowly, almost absent-mindedly, as if trying to process what had just happened. She opened her eyes but still felt dazed, her entire body tingling from the kiss. 

Yujin gave her one last look, a confident smile on his lips, before turning around and walking away. He didn’t look back, wanting to leave her wanting more. 

Wonyoung blinked a few times, trying to steady herself as she turned to head inside. Her legs felt weak, her heartbeat erratic, and her mind raced. Did Yujin really just kiss her like that? The soft, shy boy she was used to had kissed her with such intensity, such fire, that it left her dizzy. 

She panted softly as she stepped through the door, her fingers brushing against her lips where Yujin's had been. Her whole body felt warm, her skin tingling from where he’d touched her. Her heart pounded louder with every step, replaying the kiss over and over in her head. 

Chapter Text

One summer afternoon, Yujin stood by the front door of his house, waiting for Wonyoung. He was a little anxious, though he tried not to show it. His hair, freshly cut and styled, felt different — shorter, cleaner, more refined. It was his first major change in a while.

When Wonyoung finally arrived, Yujin greeted her with a smile, casually leading her inside. As she stepped into the living room and got a good look at him, her eyes widened slightly. "Wait," she said, a hint of surprise in her voice, "you cut your hair." 

Yujin chuckled, scratching the back of his neck. "Oh, yeah. Figured I should make it a bit shorter for the new school year," he said, trying to sound nonchalant even though he was silently waiting for her reaction. 

Wonyoung tilted her head, her eyes scanning his new look. "It looks really good on you," she said, a genuine smile spreading across her face. "You’re more handsome like this." 

Hearing those words made Yujin’s heart swell with pride. He couldn’t help but grin widely. "Really?" he asked, though he could already feel the warmth from her compliment sinking in. 

"Yeah," Wonyoung nodded. "Definitely suits you. More mature." 

As they made their way to his room, Yujin's mind drifted back to their earlier conversations, the subtle things Wonyoung had said — about how he dressed, how he carried himself. She had wanted him to look more serious, and now, with his new haircut, he felt like he was meeting her expectations. He glanced at her as they walked, and in that moment, he understood something. Wonyoung liked him for who he was, but she also wanted him to change, just a little. To be more confident, more assertive — not just in appearance but also in the way he carried himself around her. 

Yujin thought back to the way her body would shift slightly when they kissed, the soft sighs she would let out when he held her closer. He realized that she was showing him what she wanted — sometimes subtly, sometimes more openly. Maybe if he just paid attention, followed those small signals, they would be fine. He could be the guy she desired, the one who could excite her and make her see him as more than just the carefree, sweet guy she thought he was. 

***

Clothes were piled on Yujin’s bed, and a suitcase lay open on the floor, half-filled with essentials. The sound of footsteps approached, and his father knocked gently on the door before stepping inside. 

"We’ll get your appliances once we’re there. No need to pack too much,” his father said, glancing around the room. His eyes fell on the desk, which was noticeably missing Yujin’s desktop computer and gaming console. He raised an eyebrow in surprise. “You’re not bringing those?” 

Yujin looked over his shoulder from where he was folding clothes and shook his head. “Nah, just the laptop. I need to focus, Dad. No distractions. I can’t afford to mess up and fail any more subjects.” 

His father’s stern expression softened. He walked over to Yujin, holding out a sleek, familiar card — Yujin’s credit card. 

“This is for food and the necessities,” his father said, handing it over. “But you can also use it for some decent clothes or a suit if you need one.” 

Yujin took the card, a small grin tugging at his lips. He held it between his fingers and looked at his dad, playfully narrowing his eyes. “Why does everyone keep telling me to get rid of my wardrobe? What’s wrong with the clothes I’ve got?” 

His father chuckled lightly. “Maybe it’s time you looked the part, son. You’ll be 21 soon. And you have a serious girlfriend, maybe it’s time to look serious too.” 

***

The day had finally arrived. Yujin sat in the backseat of his parents’ car, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness as they drove to pick up Wonyoung. The summer had flown by, and now it was time to move into their new places for the start of the school year. His father was driving, while his mother sat in the front, looking back at him. 

As they pulled up in front of Wonyoung’s house, Yujin spotted her standing with her mother, both looking ready for the day.

Wonyoung climbed into the backseat with her mother next to Yujin. "Giselle and Liz are already at the dorm," she told him. "They're probably organizing our room by now." 

"That's good," Yujin replied, adjusting his backpack on his lap. "It's gonna be weird, not being neighbors anymore." 

Wonyoung chuckled softly, nudging his shoulder with hers. "You’ll survive, Yujin. It’s just a fifteen minutes away. You’re finally going independent-ish, right?" 

"Yeah, independent-ish," he echoed with a teasing grin. 

As the car weaved through the city streets, the conversation between Wonyoung's mother and Mrs. An flowed easily, mostly about the university and plans to visit the campus. Yujin leaned back, trying to settle his thoughts. He was moving into his own tiny apartment — a new level of independence. But for some reason, the idea of Wonyoung being just a few more minutes away made the whole thing feel a little more exciting with no parents to watch them.

Soon, they reached Hanseong University. Yujin’s father pulled into a designated spot, and they all got out. Wonyoung’s mother took a moment to admire the sprawling campus. "It’s even bigger in person," she said, smiling proudly at her daughter. 

Mrs. An exchanged a few pleasantries with Wonyoung’s mother before they both turned their attention to Wonyoung. "We’ll drop you off here for now," Mrs. An said. "We’ll meet you again later once Yujin settles in his apartment." 

Wonyoung nodded, adjusting the strap of her bag as she turned to Yujin. "See you later?" 

"Yeah, I'll see you," Yujin replied, giving her a small wave before getting back into the car. 

After dropping Wonyoung and her mother at the campus, Yujin’s parents drove toward his new apartment. It wasn’t far from the university, but it felt like a different world — his own space. When they arrived, his father parked, and Yujin finally got a look at the building he’d be calling home unless he mess up again. It was a modest, compact building, and the apartment was small, but it was his and enough for just him.

His father glanced at him as they unloaded the car. “We’ll buy the appliances later.” 

Yujin nodded, grabbing his duffle bag and a few boxes. They walked up to the door of his new apartment, and after unlocking it, Yujin stepped inside for the first time. The space was cozy — nothing fancy, just a single room with a kitchenette and a small bathroom. But it felt like a big step. 

After finishing the initial unpacking, Yujin and his parents headed to the mall to buy the remaining items he needed for his new apartment. The place already had the basics — a microwave, toaster, kettle, fridge, and an induction cooker —but it still lacked a few key pieces to make it feel more homey according to his mother.

As they strolled through the store, Yujin's mother had her list ready, making sure they wouldn’t forget anything. “You’ll need a double bed,” she said firmly, eyeing the options on display. “No more single beds. You need to sleep comfortably.” 
 
Yujin chuckled, following her around as she examined the mattresses. "Alright, alright. A double bed it is." 

They added a small sofa to the cart as well — just enough for Yujin to have a place to relax or for guests to sit when they visited. While they were looking at electronics, his mother noticed Yujin staring at a monitor. 

"Do you want one of these?" she asked. 

“Yeah, it’d be nice to connect my laptop to a bigger screen for productivity. It’s not a necessity, but it’ll help.” 

His father agreed. "Let’s get it. It’ll make things easier for you." 

Once they had selected all the necessary items, they moved to the grocery section of the mall. Mrs. An was meticulous, picking out fresh vegetables, meats, and snacks to stock Yujin's fridge. “You’ll need quick, easy meals,” she said, grabbing some frozen dumplings. “And you can’t survive on instant ramen forever, Yujin.” 

When they finally returned to the apartment, they set everything up. The double bed fit perfectly in the corner, and the desk, chair, and sofa added just enough comfort without making the space feel cramped and soon enough, his new dorm looked complete. 

***

As Yujin’s mother carefully placed the last of the groceries in the fridge, she began prepping to cook meals that would last him for the next few days. The apartment was starting to smell like home. Yujin sat on his new bed, glancing around as his parents busied themselves, but his thoughts kept drifting back to the bed itself. 

It was a nice upgrade, the double bed. Sure, he needed it for his height — his legs always dangled off smaller beds—but there was another thought that made his heart race just a little faster. Maybe Wonyoung could sleep here beside me one day. The thought made him blush instantly, and he quickly looked away, as if his parents could somehow read his mind. He wasn’t even sure it’s too early yet, but the idea popped into his head all the same. He smiled to himself, shaking his head a little. 

His phone buzzed, breaking his train of thought. It was a message from Wonyoung: We’re on our way now. My mom and I should be there soon! 

Yujin’s heart leap at the thought of seeing her again, even though it had only been a few hours since they dropped her and her mother off at the university. He glanced over at his mother, who was busy stirring something on the stove. “Wonyoung and her mom are on their way,” he said. 

His mother nodded, not missing a beat. “Good timing. I’m almost done here, and we can all eat together before we leave.” She gave him a knowing look as she chopped some vegetables. “Now you’ll have enough food in the fridge for days.” 

***

After Wonyoung and her mother arrived, they all sat together around the small table in Yujin’s new apartment, sharing the meal his mom had prepared. When it came time to say goodbye, Yujin’s mom hugged both Yujin and Wonyoung, reminding them to come home on weekends when school wasn’t too busy. 

"Take care of each other," Yujin’s father added before they left. With that, the door closed behind them, and Yujin and Wonyoung found themselves alone in his new space. 

Wonyoung walked around the small apartment, nodding in approval. "It’s actually nice," she said, glancing at the furniture and peeking into the bathroom. Then, she turned to Yujin with a playful smile. "But I really hope you’ll keep it clean, mister." 

"Of course!" Yujin replied, crossing his arms with a smug look. "I’ll be a responsible adult." 

Wonyoung laughed softly at his confident tone before sitting on the edge of his bed. Yujin then cleared his throat, catching her attention. "By the way," he said, pulling his phone from his pocket, "the passcode for the door is something special." He showed her the code: 913110. 

She blinked and immediately recognized it. "Wait, that’s your birthday... and my birthday... and the day we became official!" 

Yujin grinned sheepishly and handed her a small key. "Yeah, I thought it’d be easy to remember. But just in case, here’s the key." 

Wonyoung stared at the key in her hand, her heart skipping a beat. "So I can really come and go whenever I want?" 

"Yeah. Treat this place like yours too. You’re welcome anytime. Come on, I’ll walk you back to your dorm."

***

Woo-bin and Ji-Young sat across from each other in their cozy living room, the evening news playing in the background. Woo-bin sipped his tea thoughtfully before speaking up. 

"Are you really okay with Yujin having his own place?" 

Ji-Young leaned back in her chair, arms crossed, as she gave a thoughtful nod. “It’s fine. He’ll be under watch. We’ve set expectations, and if he fails to maintain those, we’ll just take it from him.” 

Woo-bin raised an eyebrow. “You think he’s doing this for himself, or do you think it’s because of Wonyoung?” 

Ji-Young chuckled softly. “Oh, I’m sure she has something to do with it. But honestly, if it means he’s spending more time with Wonyoung than wasting time with his friends and not studying, I’d prefer that.” 

Woo-bin nodded in agreement, taking another sip from his cup. "That’s true. I’d rather he’s with someone like Wonyoung, someone who keeps him grounded." 

For a moment, silence stretched between them as they both considered how much their son had changed. But suddenly, a thought crossed Ji-Young’s mind, and she looked at Woo-bin with a slightly worried expression. 

“What if…” she hesitated, “what if they do irresponsible things?” 

Woo-bin let out a hearty laugh, almost spilling his tea. He shook his head, still grinning at the thought. “If that happens, then your son is really stupid.” 

Ji-Young blinked at her husband’s casual response, but before she could say more, he continued. “Whether they have a place or not, that’s part of being a couple. If they want to be together like that, they’ll find a way — apartment or no apartment.” 

Ji-Young sighed, her worry slightly eased by Woo-bin’s logic. “You’re right,” she admitted, though the concern still lingered in her voice. “But still, I just hope they’re responsible.” 

Woo-bin leaned forward, placing his hand gently on hers. “They’ll be fine. Yujin’s grown a lot, and Wonyoung… well, she’s not the kind of girl to let him get too far out of line. She’ll keep him in check.” 

"She really does keep him in check. It’s good that he has her." 

They both sat in silence for a moment, comforted by the thought that, despite their concerns, their son had someone who grounded him — a young woman they both respected. As the night grew deeper, they exchanged glances, knowing that they’d raised Yujin the best they could. The rest was up to him. 

***

The first week of the new semester had just begun. Yujin waited for Wonyoung in the familiar park at the center of Hanseong University, where they often met. Yujin stood with a small bag in his hand.

"Hey," Wonyoung greeted softly, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. "What’s that in your hand?" 

"Just a little something," Yujin grinned, handing her the bag. "Thought I’d surprise you. It’s our first monthsary today." 

Wonyoung raised a curious eyebrow as she took the bag and sat down on a nearby bench, motioning for Yujin to sit next to her. “Are we celebrating that every month?” 

“Well, we can. I want to celebrate everyday being with you.”

“Don’t count the days, let the days count,” she said as she opened the package, and her expression quickly shifted from intrigue to confusion as she pulled out a stack of heavy books. 

"Divorce law books?" Wonyoung blinked, holding one up. "Yujin... what is this?" 

"I remember you reading something about divorce law in the library last semester. You seemed really into it, so I thought maybe you’d want to study it more. You know, get ahead or something. And you like reading, right?" 

Wonyoung blinked, then burst out laughing, clutching the books close to her chest. "I only picked that book as an excuse to come over to the library that day. Liz and Giselle texted me that you were there, and I didn’t want to look like I wasn’t studying. So I grabbed the first book I saw!" 

"Wait, really?"

"Yeah," she giggled, looking at the books again. "I'm not exactly planning on becoming a divorce lawyer." 

Yujin scratched the back of his head, laughing along with her. "Well, that’s... unexpected. I thought I was helping with your future career." 

Wonyoung smiled warmly at him, touched by the effort. "It’s sweet of you, really. But I think we should return these and get something more useful." 

After they returned the books, Yujin gestured toward the bookstore. "Alright, how about you pick out something else you like?" 

Wonyoung smiled, shaking her head. "How about we just eat instead?" she suggested. "I’m starving." 

Yujin grinned at that. "Deal. Let’s get some food." 

They grabbed lunch from a small restaurant nearby, something casual and comforting. Once they had their meals, they brought everything back to Yujin’s apartment. The cozy atmosphere of the apartment seemed to suit them, especially as they sat down to eat, exchanging laughs and talking about school. 

***

As Yujin and Wonyoung walked down the street, Yujin held several shopping bags in one hand, his other hand firmly clasped around hers. They had just finished shopping for school supplies. They reached a small park bench and decided to rest for a while. Yujin set the bags down beside him and, with a small sigh of relief, leaned back into the bench. Wonyoung did the same, their hands still entwined. 

For a while, they sat in comfortable silence, the breeze gently brushing through their hair. Yujin bit his lip, trying to keep a question that had been nagging him from spilling out, but eventually, he couldn't help it anymore. With a playful grin, he turned to her. 

"Hey, Wonyoung," he began, trying to keep his tone light. "Can I ask you something?" 

"Sure, what’s up?" 

Yujin shifted a little, feeling a bit nervous. "What’s your type in a guy?" 

“Really? Now?”

Yujin chuckled awkwardly. "No, I mean... not really. I’m just curious," he replied, trying to sound casual, but his heart was suddenly beating a little faster. He waited, watching her reaction closely. 

Wonyoung thought for a moment, her gaze drifting away as she considered his question seriously. After a brief pause, she answered, "Well, I guess… someone I can rely on, someone mature, someone clean and someone who’s driven — like someone ambitious about his life and his dreams." 

Her words hung in the air for a moment, and Yujin felt his heart sink a little. He tried to smile, but inside, a flicker of doubt stirred. He couldn’t help but compare her description to himself. Someone mature. Someone driven. Someone ambitious. 

Yujin swallowed. He knew he wasn't exactly the picture of maturity or ambition. Sure, he was dependable in some ways — he always tried to be there for her, to make her laugh, to be her support — but when it came to serious life goals? His passion for music felt more like a dream than an ambition. His laid-back approach to life, the way he navigated things day by day, didn’t really scream "mature" or "driven." 

He leaned back on the bench and tried to shake off the thoughts, but they kept swirling around in his head. His mind raced, and suddenly, everything Seulwoo had said to him made sense. About Wonyoung telling Giselle sometimes she thinks he is a little too childish. Maybe Wonyoung was looking for something more than what he was offering. He didn’t want to lose her or have her think she couldn’t rely on him in the future. 

Yujin’s grip on Wonyoung’s hand tightened slightly. He didn’t say anything for a while, just watching as a group of kids ran by the park in the distance. But in his mind, the doubts had already started to plant themselves. 

Wonyoung looked over at him, sensing a shift in his mood. “Yujin?” she asked softly, leaning in a little closer. 

He turned to her, forcing a smile. "Yeah?" 

"Are you okay?" 

Yujin nodded quickly. "Yeah, yeah, I’m good. Just thinking." 

“About?”

Yujin blinked, pulled from his thoughts. He gave her a soft smile, trying to brush off the weight of the moment. "Nothing," he said, though he knew it wasn’t exactly true. 

She tilted her head toward him. "Then tell me this — what about you? What do you like in a woman?" 

"I dunno. Pretty and kind?" 

Wonyoung couldn’t help but laugh softly at his simple answer. "That’s it? Just pretty and kind?" 

Yujin shrugged with a grin, his carefree nature showing through again. "Yeah. I guess I’m a simple guy." 

Then, out of nowhere, a bright streak of light flashed across the sky — a shooting star. 

Wonyoung’s eyes widened in surprise. "Look!" she said, pointing up excitedly. "A shooting star!" 

Yujin glanced up, his eyes catching the fading trail of the star. 

Wonyoung nudged him lightly. "Quick, make a wish!" 

Yujin closed his eyes for a second, silently making his wish. I wish that Wonyoung and I will be together forever happily. And for good health for our family and friends. He opened his eyes again, glancing at Wonyoung, who had also closed her eyes, deep in thought as she made her own wish. 

Wonyoung wished, I wish to become a successful and rich lawyer, so I can give my parents everything they want. 

“Did you make a wish?” Yujin asked softly.

Wonyoung smiled, leaning back on her hands, eyes still on the sky. “Yeah,” she said, tilting her head toward him. “I wished to become a rich and successful lawyer. You know, so I can buy anything I want… and give everyone I love everything they want.” 

Yujin grinned at her answer, always loving her determination and ambition. “Sounds like you,” he said, chuckling softly. 

Wonyoung raised an eyebrow, turning her attention fully to him. “What did you wish for?” 

“I wished for us to be together forever, happily. And good health for everyone we care about.” 

Wonyoung blinked, processing his words. She stared at him for a moment before her expression turned thoughtful, even a little critical. “Isn’t that… a normal thing to wish for?” she asked. “I mean, don’t you feel like you wasted your wish on something so ordinary?” 

Yujin’s smile faded slightly, his eyes searching hers as he realized she wasn’t joking. “But… that’s really what I want,” he said sincerely, though her reaction made him question himself. “I want all of us to be happy, and to be healthy.” 

Wonyoung tilted her head, her tone curious, but edged with a slight challenge. “Not even something bigger? Like, don’t you want to build your own company someday? Or start your own label, like you always talk about music? Isn’t there something you really want?” 

Her words made Yujin pause. For the first time that night, his carefree smile disappeared completely as he stared at the ground. His mind began to race, his thoughts swirling as her words dug into him. Was he not thinking big enough? Did Wonyoung expect more from him, from his dreams? Was he… letting her down by being satisfied with simpler things? 

A long silence stretched between them. Yujin’s hands fidgeted, his gaze unfocused. The dreams he had always carried — his love for music, his desire to live freely — now felt small, almost insignificant in the face of Wonyoung’s ambition. He wondered if maybe he should want more. If wanting to be happy and healthy, with Wonyoung by his side, wasn’t enough. 

Finally, he looked back at her. “Is… just wanting to be happy and healthy not good enough?” There was a vulnerability in his question, as if he was asking not just Wonyoung, but himself too. 

Wonyoung watched Yujin quietly for a moment, her initial instinct still holding a critical edge. She couldn’t fully understand how Yujin, someone so witty and capable with the right inspiration, could be satisfied with such a simple wish. She had always dreamed of achieving more, and part of her wanted him to share that same drive. But at the same time, she knew Yujin wasn’t like her in that way — and she didn’t want to hurt him. 

She exhaled softly, choosing her words carefully. “I get it, Yujin,” she started, her tone still tinged with a bit of seriousness. “I know happiness and health are important, and of course, I want that too. But don’t you think you should aim higher? You’re smart, you just need a little push and you have so much potential. Don’t you want more for yourself?” 

She wasn’t trying to be harsh, but it was hard to shake the feeling that Yujin wasn’t dreaming big enough for the future. “I just feel like… you’re selling yourself short by only wishing for something everyone wants,” she added. “I mean, it’s not wrong, but you’re capable of so much more.” 

Wonyoung paused, looking at him, wanting to be sure he understood that she wasn’t dismissing his feelings. “It’s not that I don’t appreciate what you wish for. I do. But I want you to want more for yourself too. Not just for me or us. For you.” 

After a brief pause, she softened her tone a little. “We’ll figure it out, okay? But first, university comes first.” 

With that, Wonyoung cupped his face gently in her hands, bringing him closer as she pressed her lips against his in a soft kiss. When she pulled back, her voice lowered as she apologized, “I’m sorry if I offended you. I didn’t mean to. I just… want to believe in you, Yujin. I know you can be so much more.” 

Yujin’s heart melted at her touch and words, the warmth of her kiss lingering on his lips. He sighed softly, feeling both reassured and slightly overwhelmed by her belief in him. Leaning forward, he kissed her back, more tenderly this time, wanting to show her that he wasn’t upset. 

As they pulled away, Wonyoung rested her forehead against his, closing her eyes for a moment before speaking again, her voice filled with sincerity. “I care about you so much, you understand that, right?” 

Yujin nodded. “Yeah, I understand.” 

When she opened her eyes, she noticed Yujin staring at her. "Wonyoung."

"Yeah?" 

He squeezed her arm a little tighter. "If you ever need anything... I mean, whatever you need, I’ll give it to you. If there’s something about me that you don’t like or something you think I need to change, just tell me. I’ll change it." He swallowed, his gaze focused on her. "I want you to trust me, to know you can always rely on me." 

Wonyoung blinked, surprised by his sudden seriousness. She stared at him for a moment, her lips curling into a soft, understanding smile. She nodded gently, touched by his words. "Okay," she whispered. 

A comfortable silence settled between them, the weight of his words sinking in. After a while, Wonyoung leaned her head against Yujin's shoulder, closing her eyes as she savored the warmth of his presence. Yujin shifted slightly, wrapping his arm around her and pulling her a little closer. 

***

The library was quiet, save for the faint rustle of pages and the occasional tap of keyboards. Yujin sat across from Wonyoung at one of the long wooden tables, both trying to focus on their studies. After deciding to sit apart to concentrate better, Yujin found himself unable to stop glancing at Wonyoung. She was focused, eyes trained on her laptop screen, occasionally scribbling notes with her pen. Her brow furrowed slightly in concentration, and the intensity of her focus made her even more attractive to him. 

After a while, Wonyoung noticed his lingering gaze. Without lifting her head, she muttered, "Why are you looking at me like that?" 

Yujin grinned, leaning back in his chair. "You look so serious and tensed." 

Wonyoung looked up briefly, raising an eyebrow. "You're not allowed to talk to me right now. We're supposed to be studying, remember?" 

Yujin gave a small chuckle and got up, moving two chairs closer to her despite her earlier insistence that they stay apart. "Let me move a bit. How about this?" 

"No," Wonyoung protested with a soft sigh. "We should be an ideal couple in college, you know? Successful in both studying and dating." 

Yujin gave her a playful smirk. "I'm busy too, don't bother me," he teased, plopping back down in front of her and pretending to be engrossed in his books. 

Wonyoung rolled her eyes at him but couldn't hide the small smile tugging at her lips. They fell into a comfortable silence again, but only a few minutes later, Yujin stretched his arms above his head, yawning dramatically. 

"I'm done studying.”

"Advance read then." 

Yujin pouted and leaned back in his chair, his body slumping lazily. "I need a break," he said, massaging the back of his neck. 

Wonyoung laughed softly, shaking her head. "Of course you need a break." 

He watched her for a moment before asking, "So what else do you have to do?" 

Without looking up, she responded, "I need to rewrite some of my notes." 

Yujin sighed dramatically, leaning his head on the table. "How do you even have the energy for that?" he mumbled, his voice muffled against the wood. 

"I don't. But I do it because it helps me remember things better. You should try it sometime." 

***

The next early morning, the sun barely peeking over the horizon as Wonyoung walked briskly across the nearly empty dorm. Yujin had texted her that he needed to meet before their classes started, and though both had early schedules, she’d made time for him. As she approached, she saw him waiting outside her dorm building, holding a small takeout bag and a folder in hand.

“Hey,” she greeted with a smile, adjusting her bag strap on her shoulder. 

Yujin smiled back, looking a bit proud of himself as he handed her the folder and the bag. “Morning! I got you breakfast and this. You’ve got class soon, right?” 

Wonyoung raised a brow, curious as she opened the folder first. Inside were neatly printed notes — pages upon pages of what she had been painstakingly trying to rewrite from her textbook. Her eyes widened in surprise. "What is this?" she asked, flipping through the pages. 

“I took pictures of your books the last time we studied together, the ones with sticky notes, when you went to the restroom,” Yujin explained, a bit too quickly. “I arranged them last night and typed everything up for you. Figured it might save you some time.” 

Wonyoung’s face lit up with a bright smile, shaking her head in disbelief. "Oh my god, this is a huge help! Now I just need to highlight them." 

Yujin couldn’t help but grin, feeling a swell of pride as he watched her reaction. This is what he needed to do - make her life easier, show her that she could depend on him, that he was always there to support her in the little things. "Anything for you," he said softly. 

The school bell rang in the distance, signaling the start of the first classes of the day. Wonyoung glanced at the time on her phone, letting out a small sigh. “I have to go,” she said, sounding a bit regretful. But before she turned to leave, she leaned in and kissed Yujin softly on the lips, a quick but sweet gesture of her gratitude. 

Yujin blinked, his heart skipping a beat, and then smiled, his hand lingering for a second on hers as she pulled away. "Fighting!" he said, his voice filled with encouragement, pumping a fist playfully. 

Wonyoung smiled back at him, holding the folder close to her chest. “Fighting!” she echoed, before turning on her heel and hurrying off to class, her steps a bit lighter now thanks to her boyfriend’s thoughtful gesture. 

***

At Café Soolhwa, Yujin and Wonyoung sat together in their usual secluded corner, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filling the air. The café, cozy and warm, felt like their little hideaway from the bustle of university life. Yujin had once worked here, and even though he no longer did, he still had a few perks left — like this private table, perfect for studying and enjoying a quiet moment with Wonyoung. 

A small basket of fries sat between them, untouched at first, as they both buried their noses in their respective books. Yujin was reading through his business case study, while Wonyoung had her law textbook open, her eyes scanning the pages with intense focus. But amidst the quiet concentration, Yujin picked up a fry, holding it up to Wonyoung’s lips with a playful grin. 

Without looking up from her book, she opened her mouth, taking the fry from his fingers with a satisfied hum, a small smile tugging at her lips. “You’re distracting me,” she muttered. With a raised eyebrow, Wonyoung picked up a fry herself and held it to his lips, her gaze still focused on her book. “Your turn,” she said teasingly. 

Yujin leaned in, biting the fries while never breaking eye contact with his book. The silence between them was peaceful, a kind of intimacy that didn’t require constant conversation. They were content just being there, studying side by side, sneaking fries into each other’s mouths with little smiles. 

After a while, Yujin’s eyes drifted away from his book and toward Wonyoung. He couldn’t help but admire the way her brow furrowed slightly in concentration, the way her fingers absentmindedly twirled her pen as she read. There was something comforting about this moment — about how easily they fit into each other’s space, how they found joy even in the simplicity of studying together. 

Wonyoung, sensing his gaze, finally looked up and caught him staring. She raised an eyebrow. “What?” 

Yujin grinned, leaning his chin on his hand. “Just thinking how cute you look when you’re focused.” 

Wonyoung glanced up from her notes, smiling softly as she felt Yujin's fingers gently twirling around hers. Their hands remained intertwined, a silent, comforting connection, while their other hands were busy flipping pages or scribbling down notes. She couldn't help but feel a deep sense of contentment. 

She had initially worried about how she’d manage to balance her studies with having a boyfriend. It wasn’t easy to stay focused with someone she cared about so much by her side, but Yujin made it surprisingly effortless. He respected her study schedule, was always patient, and never demanded more time or attention than she could give. He fit into her life like a missing piece, understanding her in a way she hadn’t expected. 

Wonyoung’s eyes flitted to Yujin, watching as his brows furrowed slightly in concentration while he worked on his own notes. The way his fingers absentmindedly played with hers made her heart swell. But as her thoughts drifted, an unexpected memory surfaced — Haewon. 

The name suddenly broke through her calm, and she couldn’t shake the image of Haewon, Yujin’s classmate and former tutor, who had made it fairly obvious she liked him. 

Without letting go of his hand, she glanced at him, her voice casual but tinged with curiosity. “Hey... do you still talk to Haewon?” she asked, trying not to sound too invested but failing to hide the slight edge in her tone. 

Yujin blinked and looked up from his notes, clearly surprised by the question. He gave her a soft smile, squeezing her hand gently as if to reassure her before answering. 

"Not really. Just casual greetings here and there, Haewon knows you're my girlfriend now." 

Wonyoung nodded, feeling a bit of relief, but she couldn’t help herself. “Well… if she’s being weird or anything, just tell me, okay? 

Yujin chuckled softly, his eyes crinkling at the corners as he leaned in a bit closer. "Is that your way of saying you're jealous?" he teased gently. 

Wonyoung felt her cheeks warm at the accusation, but she quickly shook her head, trying to appear unbothered. “Jealous? No way,” she said, her voice confident, though deep inside she remembered how she had felt a flicker of jealousy before. But now, sitting here with Yujin, their hands entwined, she didn’t feel the same insecurity anymore. 

“I’m not jealous anymore,” she added quietly, more to herself than to him, smiling softly as her thumb brushed against the back of his hand. Yujin’s gaze softened, and he leaned over, pressing a gentle kiss to her hand before going back to his notes. 

***

Yujin and Wonyoung were nestled together on his couch, the glow of the TV lighting up the room with soft flickers. Wonyoung leaned her back against Yujin’s shoulder, her legs curled up comfortably, while Yujin’s arm rested gently around her waist, pulling her just a little closer. The show on TV was a quiet hum in the background, neither of them really paying attention. Or at least that was Yujin thinks. Every so often, their lips would meet in soft, lingering kisses, slow and unhurried. They were completely in their own world, savoring the warmth of being together. 

Yujin could feel Wonyoung’s steady breathing against his chest, her neck so close to his face that her scent was intoxicating. His heart beat a little faster as his eyes lingered on her neck. He had kissed Wonyoung plenty of times before on the lips, but something about the way they were positioned tonight, with her body so relaxed and close to his, made him want to kiss her in a different way. His gaze dropped to her neck — so smooth, so inviting — and the idea of pressing his lips there stirred something in him. 

His pulse quickened. He was nervous, though. Wonyoung was older, more mature — two years ahead of him. Surely, she had done more than just kiss someone, right? He couldn’t help but wonder if she’d been with someone before, if she had more experience than him. The thought made him hesitate, his fingers twitching slightly where they rested on her waist. Should he ask her? But what if it ruined the moment? What if she gets offended? He didn’t want to seem insecure or clueless. They hadn’t talked much about this kind of stuff — they just kissed and held hands, staying in a comfortable zone. But maybe he could try something a little more right now, something small, just to see how she felt. 

Swallowing his nerves, Yujin tilted his head down and pressed his lips gently against Wonyoung’s neck. He felt her body shift slightly, and for a brief second, he worried he had made a mistake. But then she let out a soft moan, barely audible, and he felt her lean her head back, offering him more of her neck. A rush of relief and excitement hit him at the same time. She liked it. It was okay. 

Encouraged, Yujin continued, his lips trailing slow, warm kisses along the curve of her neck. He could feel Wonyoung’s body responding, her breath quickening slightly as she melted into him. His hand tightened just a little on her waist, pulling her even closer as he kissed her again, this time with a bit more confidence. The softness of her skin, the way she moaned ever so quietly — it was driving him crazy. 

As Yujin’s lips brushed against her neck, Wonyoung felt a rush of surprise that quickly turned into a slow burn of desire. He had always been playful and carefree, never too serious, but in moments like these, when they were alone, Yujin was different. He had started becoming bolder recently, his touches more deliberate, his kisses deeper. It was like this side of him only came out when they were together in private, and Wonyoung couldn’t help but wonder if this was a part of him she hadn’t fully discovered yet. 

The way his lips moved against her neck, warm and lingering, made her pulse quicken. She found herself liking it more than she expected. Yujin wasn’t just being sweet or playful right now — he was making her feel things she hadn’t felt with him before. There was an intensity to the way he held her close, his hands firm on her waist, and she realized that maybe this was a side of Yujin that came with being in a relationship. Maybe he had this more assertive, aggressive side to him, a side that wanted her in a way that went beyond the innocent kisses and hand-holding. 

Wonyoung didn’t feel uncomfortable, though. In fact, she liked it. It made her see Yujin as more than the playful boy she’d fallen for. He was showing her that he could be a man — someone who could make her feel more than just sweet affection. His boldness, the way he claimed her neck with his lips, made her feel desired in a way that excited her, and she found herself leaning into his touch, wanting more.

"I love this side of you," she whispered breathlessly, her voice low. "So hot… so assertive." Wonyoung let out a soft groan, tilting her head slightly to give him more access.

Her words sent a thrill through Yujin, his heart pounding in his chest. He hadn’t realized just how much Wonyoung enjoyed it when he took charge like this. It spurred him on, the desire to make her feel even more igniting in him. Mentally, Yujin made a note: Wonyoung wants me to be more aggressive. Maybe it was time to take things to the next level. 

With that thought in mind, his hands moved down her body, one hand sliding to her waist before settling comfortably on her ass. He kneaded the soft flesh there, testing her reaction. Wonyoung didn’t flinch — if anything, she seemed to press closer to him. Yujin’s lips continued to kiss her neck, feeling bolder than ever, his mind racing with possibilities. 

Maybe this is it, Yujin thought, his pulse quickening. She wants me to go further. I should just— 

But before he could act on those thoughts, the sound of Wonyoung’s phone ringing cut through the air. The unexpected interruption made Yujin freeze, his hand still resting on her ass, as Wonyoung sighed in mild frustration. She reached for her phone, glancing at the screen. 

"I have to go," she said after a moment. "I need to advance read something for tomorrow." She gently shifted, signaling it was time to pull away. 

Yujin sat up as she got off the bed, a hint of disappointment flickering in his chest, but he quickly masked it with a smile. "Okay, I’ll walk you out," he said, standing up and running a hand through his hair. 

Wonyoung gave him a grateful smile as she adjusted her clothes and grabbed her bag. As Yujin led her to the door, his thoughts were still buzzing with everything that had just happened. He could still feel the weight of her body against his, the way she moaned under his touch, the way she called him "hot" and "assertive." He couldn't shake the feeling that next time, he'd need to push those boundaries a little more — if that's what Wonyoung really wanted. 

***

It was the weekend, and Yujin and Wonyoung walked together across the campus, hand in hand. They had planned to head home, but both had obligations that kept them at university. Yujin glanced at Wonyoung as they strolled, his mind spinning with the idea of spending more time with her that night. 

“So,” Yujin began casually, “there’s a party happening for my course next week. Wanna come?” 

Wonyoung gave him a quick glance before shaking her head. “I can’t. I need to catch up on studying,” she replied. “And besides, there’s the welcome party for the new law students next week too.” 

“Can I come to yours, then?” 

Wonyoung’s eyes widened in surprise. She hadn’t expected him to ask that. For a second, she hesitated. “Um… I don’t think you’d like it, Yujin. It’s probably boring… all the law students just talking about cases or professors. It’s not really your style.” 

Yujin’s expression faltered slightly, his grin fading into a small frown. He wasn’t the type to feel left out, but the way Wonyoung had said it made him wonder if she really didn’t want him there — or if she thought he didn’t fit in with that kind of setting. But he forced a smile, nodding as if it didn’t bother him. “Okay, no worries. I’ll just attend mine then.” 

They walked in silence for a bit, the atmosphere slightly tense after the conversation. When they reached Wonyoung’s dorm, Yujin turned to face her. “Well, goodnight,” he said softly, leaning down to press a kiss to her lips. Wonyoung returned the kiss, lingering for a moment before stepping back with a small smile.

“Goodnight,” she whispered, giving his hand a gentle squeeze before heading inside. 

As Yujin walked back to his apartment alone, his mind wandered back to their conversation. Why didn’t Wonyoung want him to go? Was it really about the party being boring, or was there something else? Did she think he didn’t belong with her other friends? He couldn’t shake the feeling that maybe she didn’t see him fitting in with the mature crowd she was surrounded by. 

When Yujin reached his apartment, he dropped onto his bed, staring up at the ceiling. His thoughts spiraled, questions swirling in his head. He knew Wonyoung came from a modest background, but she was so driven, so focused on her goals, her ambition burning bright. He admired that about her. But where did that leave him? Was he just a carefree guy with no big dreams in her eyes? 

***

Yujin walked down the hallway of Wonyoung’s dorm, balancing a bag filled with breakfast sandwiches and drinks in his arms. He was excited to surprise Wonyoung, Liz, and Giselle. He knew they had a busy day ahead, and he wanted to make their morning easier with a thoughtful gesture. A smile tugged at his lips as he imagined the look on Wonyoung’s face when he showed up. 

As he neared the lounge, he heard voices echoing from around the corner. His pace slowed, recognizing the familiar tones of Liz and Wonyoung, mixed with a few other girls. He wasn’t in a rush, so he let himself linger for a moment, enjoying the sound of Wonyoung’s laughter. Just as he was about to turn the corner and surprise them, he heard Liz’s voice, her words stopping him in his tracks. 

“Are you really not bringing Yujin?” 

Yujin leaned slightly against the wall, listening, his heart already beating so fast at the sound of his name. 

Wonyoung’s voice followed. “Yujin won’t like it. He doesn’t even want to dress formally.” 

Giselle chimed in. “I’m sure he can put on a nice suit.” 

Then Liz added with a chuckle, “It doesn’t seem like Yujin’s style. He’d stand out like a sore thumb.” 

Yujin clenched the handles of the bag tighter, the weight of the food feeling heavier in his hands. Just as he was processing those words, a group of girls passed by Wonyoung and her friends, their laughter bubbling into the conversation. 

One of the girls called out playfully, “Are you going to bring your minor boyfriend?” 

Wonyoung’s tone was sharp, defensive. “Stop it,” she said, but the teasing continued. 

Another girl chimed in, laughing. “Maybe you should bring your brother, so Wonyoung’s boyfriend has someone to play cards with.” 

The laughter stung. Yujin’s stomach twisted in knots, and he found himself unable to move forward, his mind racing. Was that how they really saw him? A kid, someone who didn’t belong in her world of ambitious law students? He didn’t want to believe it, but the words rang in his ears, louder than any reassurance he could give himself. 

He stood there, hidden behind the corner, his breath caught in his throat. For a brief moment, he considered just walking away, skipping breakfast altogether. But no — that wouldn’t solve anything. Besides, Wonyoung wasn’t the one making fun of him. She had tried to stop the teasing, even if she didn’t fully deny the idea that he didn’t fit in. 

He kept listening to Wonyoung talk more about how she enjoys their time together but how she craves something different. She says something about wanting more intensity, a stronger side of him she hasn’t seen yet. His insecurities flare up, and he wonders if he’s not enough for her, if he’s not showing her the kind of passion she needs. 

Should I be more bold? Yujin thinks, his hands clenched tightly by his sides. Maybe I’m not doing enough. Maybe I need to be more daring, show her that I can be the kind of guy she finds exciting. I need her to look at me the way she looks at the other guys she talks about... His mind starts racing, thinking about how to turn things around. I can’t be this guy who’s always too careful, too soft. I need her to see me as someone who can take charge, someone who can make her feel something... beyond just kissing. 

His thoughts blur together in a whirlwind of doubt and desire. Is she waiting for me to make a move? To do something different? He wonders, biting the inside of his cheek. I can’t just keep waiting. I need to show her that I can be... more. I need to excite her. 

After a brief moment of silence, Wonyoung speaks up again, "You know, even the way Yujin dresses doesn’t seem very confident." 

Liz tilts her head, replying, "Didn’t you defend him before, though? He just wears comfortable clothes. It’s nothing to be ashamed of." She adds, trying to clarify, "We always tease him but I think it’s cute. He’s always so chill." 

Wonyoung lets out a soft sigh, clearly still thinking about it. "Yeah, I did. But... I don’t know. He’s in his third year now. At some point, he needs to start looking more serious, right?" Her tone is almost questioning, as though she's trying to rationalize it to herself. "I just feel like if he looked a little more put together, maybe he'd feel more confident, too. Someone who looks... mature. You know?" 

Yujin, having overheard just enough, feels a knot form in his stomach. He stands frozen, his heart sinking as Wonyoung's words echo in his mind. She’s right, he thinks, biting his lip. I have been wearing the same thing... I always dress like I’m still a kid. 

So this is it, huh? Yujin’s mind races. This is why I’m not getting any kind of attention from her? Because I dress like I’m still in high school? She’s right. I can’t just keep wearing these oversized hoodies... His chest tightens as he wonders if it’s more than just his clothes that are turning Wonyoung off. Is this why she doesn’t feel that... desire for me? Because I’m not giving off that confident, mature vibe she’s looking for? 

The more he thinks about it, the more frustrated he feels with himself. Why did everyone have to mention my style? 

His thoughts spiral, and he feels that familiar self-doubt creeping in again. Maybe this is why she likes those other guys. They’re older, more put together, more mature. Maybe she’s not attracted to me because I look like a kid... 

After a few deep breaths, Yujin steeled himself. His heart still ached, but he couldn’t let them see that. With a forced smile, he rounded the corner, his voice cheerful and light as if he hadn’t overheard a thing. 

“Hey, I brought breakfast!” he called out, holding up the bag. 

***

Yujin sat on the edge of his bed, staring down at the credit card his father had given him. The plastic felt cool between his fingers, but his thoughts were anything but calm. Wonyoung's words echoed in his head. "He dresses like a kid." He replayed the conversation in his mind, how casually she had said it, and how it had lingered with him ever since. It was one thing for her to say it, but for her to believe he wasn’t serious? That stung more than he expected. 

He had never cared much about his appearance before. But now? Now, it felt like it wasn’t enough. Not for Wonyoung. She liked it when he took charge, when he was bolder. He could feel it, the way her body had responded. Maybe she wanted him to be more assertive, more confident. 

A new thought gripped him. She needs to see me as a man, he thought, gripping the card tighter. Not just the sweet, boyish guy she could kiss, but someone she desired. He felt his heart race at the idea. This was a mission now. He needed to show Wonyoung that he was someone she could crave, not just someone she teased or played with. 

He stood up, pacing his small apartment. He glanced at the mirror hanging by the door. His hair was messy, as always, and his clothes were casual, a little too comfortable. Maybe Wonyoung would take me more seriously if I dressed the part. If I looked more... mature. 

Yujin inhaled deeply, steeling himself. He knew what he needed to do. His fingers flexed around the credit card, feeling the weight of the decision he was about to make. 

He grabbed his keys and headed for the door. He didn’t know exactly how to pull this off, but one thing was clear — he was going to show Wonyoung that he could be more than just the guy in the hoodie. He was going to make her see him as a man. 

***

Yujin sat at his desk, fidgeting with his fingers as he mulled over the idea in his head. He had heard his classmate, Yuna talk about appearance constantly — how it's all about the right style, and how most men don’t even bother trying. It was something she brought up casually in their classes, always chatting about what worked and what didn’t when it came to fashion. Her friends often joked that Yuna should start a style coaching business, claiming she gave amazing advice. Yuna had even mentioned once that she helped her cousin with his wardrobe, and, according to her, the guy went from hopeless to suddenly "decent" after a makeover. 

He remembered how she had bragged about it, laughing about how easy it was to fix a guy’s look if he just listened. Maybe she was right. Maybe that’s what Yujin needed to do — get a little advice. He liked how he dressed but… what if it wasn’t enough? Wonyoung was gorgeous, smart, and put together. She deserved a boyfriend who looked like he put in the effort. 

He stared at Yuna, who was sitting alone, checking something on her phone. His fingers twitched, fidgeting more as he debated whether or not to approach her. Would he look like an idiot? Or worse — embarrass himself? He could already imagine her reaction: that raised eyebrow and unimpressed expression Yuna often wore. Still… the thought of Wonyoung, the idea of doing something that could make her happier pushed him forward.

"Alright, Yujin," he muttered under his breath. "You’ve done crazier things than this." 

Gathering all the courage he could muster, he stood up. For Wonyoung. It was all for her.  

"Uh, Yuna… can I ask you for some advice?" he blurted out nervously, scratching the back of his head awkwardly. 

Yuna raised an eyebrow, her gaze skeptical. "What do you want?" she asked bluntly, not bothering to hide her disinterest. 

Yujin shifted uncomfortably. "Well... I kinda want your opinion with something," he mumbled. 

Yuna crossed her arms, already shaking her head. "No," she said flatly before Yujin could even explain himself. 

"Wait, you didn’t even hear what I was gonna say yet!" 

Yuna sighed, flicking a glance at him. "Look, whatever it is, I’m not interested. Why are you asking me?" 

Yujin swallowed hard. "I… uh… I kinda need your help with something. You always talk about style and, you know… fashion." He scratched the back of his neck awkwardly. "I thought maybe you could, uh, help me look more… attractive. It’s for my girlfriend. Girls' opinions matter, right?" he said, a little unsure of how to phrase it.

Yuna paused for a moment, eyeing him curiously before letting out a small laugh. "You’re asking me for style advice? For your girlfriend?" She smirked. "This is rich. "Why don’t you ask your girlfriend herself, then?" 

Yujin hesitated, knowing Yuna was right but determined to explain. "Well, I thought about that… but I want to surprise her.”

Yuna raised an eyebrow, intrigued but still not fully convinced. "That’s the problem with you guys. You never listen to your girlfriends, and that’s why half of you look clueless." 

Yujin nodded, feeling like a scolded student. “If I ask her, she might think I’m relying on her for something as simple as picking clothes. I… I want to show her I can put in the effort, you know? Like, really try without needing to be told." She still looks uninterested, then Yujin pulled out his gold credit card and said he will take her to shopping if he helps him.

Yuna’s eyes widened, leaned back in her chair, tapping her fingers against the desk as she studied him for a moment. Finally, she sighed and patted the chair beside her. "Now we’re talking. Alright, sit down. Tell me more." 

Yujin blinked in surprise but quickly sat next to her, relieved that he had gotten her attention. "Thanks, Yuna. This really means a lot." 

She smirked. "Don't thank me yet.”

***

As Yujin and Yuna sat discussing his goals, Yujin explained, "I just want to step up, you know? I want Wonyoung to see I’m serious about our relationship, and I want to impress her, not just with words but... how I carry myself. Maybe dress better, be more confident." 

Yuna listened carefully, then raised an eyebrow. "It kinda sounds like your girlfriend doesn’t even like you," she said bluntly. 

Yujin’s eyes widened. "No, no, that’s not it! Wonyoung is really nice, and we’re doing great. But I just... I know I need to step up in some areas. Especially with my style." 

Yuna studied him for a moment before shrugging. "Alright, fair enough. Let’s start with the basics then. Show me your clothes." 

"Wait, right now? 

"Yeah, why not? During break, I’ll come by your dorm and take a look," Yuna said casually. 

Later that day, as promised, Yuna showed up at Yujin’s dorm. She walked in with the confidence of someone on a mission, ready to overhaul his wardrobe. Yujin led her to his closet, feeling a bit nervous as she pulled out shirts, jackets, and pants, inspecting each piece with a critical eye. 

She wrinkled her nose at some of the items. "Okay, you were right. You definitely need help," she said, flipping through his clothes. "But at least you know branded stuff. That’s a start." She tossed a couple of shirts back into the closet with clear disapproval. 

Yujin scratched the back of his neck, feeling a little self-conscious as Yuna continued to judge his wardrobe. After a few more minutes of silent critique, Yuna finally turned to him with a more strategic tone. "Alright, here’s the deal. We’ll make the clothes the last priority for now. We need to focus on you first. Clothes are just the icing on the cake. We’re going for impact." 

He nodded, absorbing her words. "Got it. So, what’s first?" 

Without warning, Yuna reached over and lifted his shirt up, exposing his torso. "We need to—" she started, but Yujin immediately yanked his shirt back down, his face turning bright red. 

"What are you doing!?" he exclaimed, flustered beyond belief. 

Yuna rolled her eyes, clearly unbothered by his reaction. "Relax, I’m just checking. You need abs. You should start going to the gym if you want to make an impression." She then grabbed his arm and gave it a squeeze. "These could use some work too." 

Yujin, still recovering from the shock, stammered, "That’s it?" 

Yuna looked at him like he’d just asked a silly question. "Duh. A muscular hot body adds visual impact when things get... you know, more intimate." As Yuna continued her critique, she looked Yujin up and down. "You need to get muscular, yeah. Build up some mass. Don’t tell me you’ve never even seen a woman naked yet." 

Yujin’s face turned beet red as he flusteredly defended himself, "I have!!" 

Yuna raised an eyebrow, unimpressed. "Then why do you look so shy?" 

Yujin shifted awkwardly, scratching the back of his neck. "It’s just... too much information, alright?" 

Yuna smirked, shaking her head as if she had just confirmed something. "Yeah, you clearly lack confidence." She took a step back and eyed him critically again before giving a more thoughtful nod. "Honestly though, you don’t look bad. You’re tall, actually pretty handsome, with those cute dimples and lips... but you have no aura. No style." 

Yujin wasn’t sure how to respond. "Uh... thanks?" he said, uncertain if that was a compliment or not. 

Yuna casually threw some of his clothes to the floor, the ones she deemed hopeless, without a second glance. "These," she said, pointing to the pile, "need to go." Then she picked up a few shirts and pants she had set aside. "These will do for now. But before the semester ends, we’re going shopping. And by that time, hopefully, you’ve gained some muscle." She gave him a once-over again, this time more intently. "You really need to start gaining weight. It’ll help with the whole... presence thing." 

Yujin blinked. "Okay, I will eat a lot and lift weights." 

"Yeah," Yuna said, rolling her eyes. "You want to be hot, right? Build up your body. A tall guy with muscle, and some decent style? Trust me, Wonyoung, I mean not just her, will notice. It’ll give you the confidence boost you’re missing." 

Yujin nodded slowly, trying to take it all in. "Alright... guess it’s time to hit the gym." 

Yuna gave him an approving nod. "Good. And don’t worry, we’ll work on the rest too. But seriously, start bulking up, order that extra rice!" 

Chapter Text

Wonyoung sat cross-legged on Yujin’s couch, nibbling on a slice of pizza as they watched a show playing in the background. Her eyes drifted to Yujin, who was sitting beside her, happily digging into his second plate of food — pasta, pizza, and fries. She couldn’t help but notice how much he’d been eating lately, especially the heavy carb-laden meals. 

“Yujin,” Wonyoung said, glancing over at him with a curious look. “Why are you so hungry lately? You’ve been eating a lot more than usual.”

Yujin paused, his mouth full of food, blinking at her. He swallowed quickly. “Oh, this?” he said, motioning to the mountain of food in front of him.

“Are you not eating when we’re not together or something?” 

Yujin chuckled, shaking his head as he wiped his mouth with a napkin. “No, no, I eat plenty. Don’t worry. It’s just... I am trying to gain some weight.”

"Wait, is all this because Liz teased you about your body?" 

Yujin paused mid-bite, then set down his fork and scratched the back of his neck, looking slightly embarrassed. "Not just that," he admitted. "I just figured... you know, maybe I’ll feel more confident. And I might look better if I put on some muscle." 

Wonyoung tilted her head, her expression soft but firm. "Yujin, you don’t need to change your body." 

"I know, but I think I’d feel more... mature if I put on some weight. Maybe it’ll help me look more grown up." Yujin shrugged lightly, a playful smile tugging at his lips. "It won’t hurt to put on a little muscle though. Plus, I’ve already started, so I’ve been getting up early every day." 

Wonyoung’s eyebrows shot up in surprise. "You go to the gym? Every day?" 

Yujin nodded, laughing a little. "Yeah, every day. I’ve got a whole routine going." 

Wonyoung’s lips curled into a teasing smirk as she leaned back on the couch. "Is my boyfriend going to turn into a bodybuilder soon?" 

Yujin chuckled, shaking his head. "Nah, I’m not aiming for that. I’m just trying to look a little less like a stick. And to stop dressing like I’m in high school.”

Wonyoung glanced at him, feeling the slight shift in the mood, unsure of where this was leading. Yujin turned his head to look at her, his eyes searching hers. “Isn’t that what you want?” he asked. “For me to look more... mature?” 

Her heart skipped a beat. His words caught her off guard, and she blinked in surprise, not expecting him to bring that up. How did he know about that? she thought, her mind racing. She hadn’t meant for him to notice, and now she wondered if she had made him feel insecure. Is he mad or something? She quickly searched his expression, looking for any sign of frustration or hurt, but all she saw was Yujin’s steady gaze, waiting for her to respond. 

I didn’t mean for him to feel like he had to change for me... Did I pressure him? I just wanted him to — no, it’s not about how he looks. But... it’s true, I have thought about it. I’ve wondered what it would be like if he dressed more mature, or looked less boyish. But I didn’t expect him to do it for me... 

Wonyoung’s breath hitched as she realized the impact her unspoken thoughts might have had on him. Yujin wasn’t mad — he wasn’t the type to be — but he was clearly trying to meet some expectation she hadn’t even fully articulated. She didn’t know whether to feel guilty or touched. 

As Yujin noticed Wonyoung’s silence, he shifted slightly beside her. The air between them had grown thick with unspoken words, and Yujin, sensing her inner turmoil, opened his mouth again. "I heard you talking to your friends." 

Wonyoung’s heart sank. Her eyes widened slightly as she realized what he was referring to. Before she could respond, Yujin continued, "I just wish you’d asked me instead." He turned to face her. "You know I’ll do anything for you, right?" 

Guilt washed over Wonyoung like a wave. She hadn’t meant to make him feel like he wasn’t enough. Her heart twisted as she searched for the right words, feeling the weight of her actions settle on her chest. "Yujin, I... I don’t want you to think I don’t like you for who you are," she whispered, feeling a bit guilty, like she was betraying him. "I like you as you are. I just—" She faltered, feeling like she had unintentionally hurt the sweetest person she knew. 

Yujin nodded slowly, his eyes not leaving hers. "I understand. Everyone’s different, and we all have ways we want the people we like to act." He paused, his hand reaching out to gently brush against hers. "It’s okay to want things, Wonyoung. I get it. I know I dress funnily sometimes. It’s not just you who wants me to change that — my parents, even some of my friends and professors have said the same. And it’s okay." 

Wonyoung’s breath caught in her throat as she heard the kindness in his voice. He wasn’t angry. But then Yujin’s tone softened even more, and his next words made her heart ache. "But it hurts more when it’s my own girlfriend being critical of me." He sighed, not in frustration, but in quiet reflection. "When it’s you, Wonyoung, it stings more. I just wish you could’ve talked to me about it, you know?" 

Wonyoung’s eyes burned with unshed tears, guilt creeping up her spine. She never wanted to hurt Yujin, but hearing him express how he felt made her realize how thoughtless she’d been. "I’m so sorry," she murmured, her voice trembling. "I should’ve talked to you. I didn’t want to pressure you, Yujin." 

Yujin’s fingers gently intertwined with hers, squeezing softly in reassurance. "I know, Wonyoung," he said, his voice warm and calming. "I just want us to be honest with each other. You don’t have to keep things from me. If you want something, just tell me. I’ll listen. I’ll always try for you." 

He looked at Wonyoung with that familiar gentle expression, always soft and kind, even when the conversation was about his flaws. "So, what don’t you like about me?" he asked, his tone so sincere that Wonyoung felt a pang in her chest. 

She bit her lip for a second, hesitant but knowing he deserved honesty. "I... I want you to dress like your age," she finally admitted. 

Yujin nodded thoughtfully, taking her words in without any sign of hurt or frustration. "Okay. That makes sense." His eyes stayed on hers, open and encouraging. "What else?" 

Wonyoung paused again, trying to be careful with her words. "I also want you to be more serious with your studies," she confessed. "You’re so smart, but you don’t push yourself as much as you could." 

Yujin nodded again, clearly listening with intent. "What else?" 

She blinked, feeling like she was getting too critical. "That’s it," she said quietly, hoping she wasn’t overwhelming him. 

But Yujin wasn’t done. He asked one more question, his voice just as kind. "What are the childish things I do that you don’t like?" 

Wonyoung exhaled, thinking about how to phrase it without sounding harsh. "It’s not really about childishness," she began. "But... I guess it felt childish when you didn’t take your studies seriously. And maybe how you sometimes care more about picking too flashy clothes instead of something simple." 

Yujin listened closely, his gaze never wavering. "I see," he said, still so calm. "So, it’s more about just the studying and my clothes, not that I’m childish in other ways. I thought you hate my entire personality."

Wonyoung’s heart jumped, and she shook her head immediately, reaching for his hand. "No! No, I don’t hate your personality. I actually really like it." She smiled softly, her fingers squeezing his. "I love that you’re nice and sweet. You’re pure, and you’re charming and funny. You make me feel safe, make me laugh." 

As Yujin sat there, listening to Wonyoung's words, a realization slowly dawned on him — he had been overthinking this whole thing. He let out a small sigh, wondering if he had been too caught up in what he overheard. Maybe I’ve been too deep in my head about this, he thought to himself, glancing at Wonyoung, who was now quiet, looking as if she was lost in her own thoughts. 

Yujin broke the silence. "Do your friends... hate me?" 

Her eyes widened in shock, and she quickly shook her head. "No, of course not! They love you!" she exclaimed, feeling a surge of guilt. How could he think that? Wonyoung, on the other hand, was wondering the same. Is Yujin thinking more about this? she pondered, feeling a bit guilty. Her heart pounded as she saw his expression, unsure of what he was going to say next. 

"But..." Yujin started, his voice quieter now. "I heard them." 

Wonyoung bit her lip, feeling embarrassed. "They... they see you in certain ways," she admitted softly, "but that doesn’t mean they don’t like you." Feeling the guilt creeping up, she added, "I’m sorry. We’re awful people." 

Yujin shook his head gently, giving her a reassuring smile. "No, you’re not awful. I just... I thought you saw me as completely childish because I overheard you say that you want me to 'man up.'" 

That phrase lingered in the air, and Wonyoung instantly felt her cheeks flush a deep pink. Oh no... Her mind raced as she realized what he meant. What he overheard... She had meant it about their physical relationship, not his personality or anything else. How could she explain that without sounding... too bold herself? 

Her heart thudded as she struggled to find the words. She took a breath and, in the quietest voice, said, "Um... It wasn’t about... you, like, as a person." She glanced away, feeling her face heat up even more. "It was... about our... physical relationship." 

Yujin blinked, his eyebrows raising slightly as he processed her words. 

Wonyoung, completely mortified, continued, "I... I’m shy to say this, but... I just meant... that I’d like you to be a bit more... aggressive, that’s all." 

Her words hung in the air, and she couldn’t bring herself to look at him, her face glowing with embarrassment. She had never imagined saying something like that out loud, but here she was, laying her feelings bare in the most awkward, clumsy way possible. 

Yujin blinked, his surprise quickly fading into a gentle, understanding smile. He reached over, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "I see," he said softly, his voice tender. "You want me to be a bit bolder?" 

Wonyoung nodded, her heart racing. Then she takes a deep breath, gathering her thoughts. She knows she needs to clear up the misunderstanding Yujin has about how she feels. "Yujin," she starts, turning to face him fully, "some of the things you heard, they weren’t what you think. I wasn’t trying to change you into someone else," she continues, her voice a little gentler. "It’s just... there were little things, like your style or wanting you to be more serious about your studies. I guess I didn’t know how to say it without sounding critical, and I’m sorry for that. I never meant to make you feel like I didn’t like you for who you are."  

She sighs, feeling guilty. "When I talked to my friends, I didn’t realize how it would sound. I wasn’t complaining about you. I was just... talking about small things I noticed. But none of that changes how much I like you.” She squeezes his hand softly. "I didn’t mean to hurt you by saying those things behind your back. I just didn’t know how to talk about them, and that’s my fault. I’m learning too." 

Yujin looks into her eyes, and she can see the tension in him soften slightly. "You really mean that?" he asks softly. 

She feels a bit of relief when she sees him smile, his shoulders relaxing a little. Wonyoung takes that moment to reassure him even more. "If I ever say something that sounds like I’m being too critical, just tell me, okay? I’ll try to be better about talking to you, not around you." 

Yujin nods slowly, his smile returning. "I just... want to know that I’m good enough for you," he admits, his voice a little vulnerable. 

"You are." Wonyoung whispers back, squeezing his hand again. "And I’ll always be honest with you from now on. I like you for who you are, Yujin. Don’t ever doubt that." 

Yujin’s heart swelled at her words, and he flashed her a warm smile. "Thanks. I just want to feel better, that’s all. And I’ll make sure I’m the best version of myself for you. Just wait, next time you see my body, you’re gonna drool,” he teased, puffing his chest out a little, clearly joking to lighten the mood.

“Yeah, sure,” she replied with a smirk. “I’ll be sure to bring a napkin.” 

He chuckled, leaning in closer, his voice dropping to a playful whisper. “And if Liz says anything again, I’ll toss her into the pool next time. No hesitation.” 

Wonyoung laughed, shaking her head. "You wouldn't dare!" 

Yujin grinned widely. “Oh, I would. She’ll think twice before teasing me again.” 

Wonyoung grinned, playfully nudging him. “Well, as long as I’m there to see it. I’d love to see her face when that happens.” 

Yujin winked at her. “Anything for you. Just say the word.” 

***

Wonyoung, Liz, and Giselle waited outside Yujin's classroom, huddled together with mischievous smiles. The moment Yujin stepped out, he was greeted by their playful cheers. 

"Yujin!" Wonyoung waved, her eyes twinkling with excitement. Liz and Giselle joined in, and before Yujin could react, they were already guiding him down the hall. 

“What’s going on?” Yujin asked, confused but smiling at their energy. 

"We’re kidnapping you for lunch," Giselle grinned, nudging him playfully. 

"Yeah," Liz added with a smirk, "we heard from a little birdie—" she shot Wonyoung a teasing look "—that you're bulking up, so we thought we’d help you out." 

Yujin laughed, amused by their sudden enthusiasm. “Bulking up, huh? And where exactly are we going?” 

"A pasta place!" Wonyoung chimed in, looping her arm through his. "You need the carbs, right?" 

Yujin smiled at her, letting them lead the way. And when they arrived at the cozy pasta restaurant, Yujin was already feeling at ease. They found a table in the corner, and after they all sat down, Liz leaned forward with a more serious look. 

“Okay, Yujin,” she began, glancing at Giselle before looking back at him. “We brought you here for more than just carbs. We wanted to apologize.” 

“Apologize?” 

Liz fidgeted with her fork, clearly a bit awkward. “Yeah... I said some stuff. About you, and also behind your back, you know, being a stick.” She gave him a guilty look. “It was a joke, but... I realize now it was kinda mean. I didn’t mean it that way, but still. I’m sorry.” 

Yujin chuckled, shaking his head. “It’s fine, really. I don’t look like a stick anymore, though.” He pulled up the sleeve of his shirt, flexing his bicep with a grin. "See? I’ve gained some weight already." 

Liz laughed, relieved by his reaction. “Okay, okay, you’re not a stick anymore, fine!” 

Giselle chimed in, “Yeah, I feel bad too. We were kind of terrible, making fun of your clothes and stuff. It wasn’t cool.” 

Wonyoung smiled softly at Yujin, giving him a look that said she had told her friends everything, and they genuinely wanted to make it up to him. 

Yujin shook his head again, his smile never fading. “You guys are fine. I get it. It’s okay now.” 

Liz leaned back, visibly relieved. “Good, because we’re treating you today. Order whatever you want.” 

“Whatever I want?” 

“Yup!” Giselle grinned. “No limits. We owe you.” 

Yujin glanced at the menu and started picking his meal, but as he did, his thoughts began to wander. He had been feeling insecure for a while, ever since he’d overheard those things. But now, hearing them apologize and seeing how lighthearted it all was, the weight of those insecurities was starting to lift. 

His mind flickered back to the conversation he had with Wonyoung recently, how they had agreed to be open with each other instead of talking behind each other’s backs. That had been a turning point. Things felt clearer now, simpler. He felt a sense of relief knowing that these issues were behind him, and most importantly, with the reassurance that Wonyoung had always liked him for who he was. 

As he placed his order, a big plate of carbonara and an extra side of garlic bread, he felt a contentedness settle over him. He looked at Wonyoung, who gave him a warm smile, and then at Liz and Giselle, who were both eagerly chatting about what to order next. 

"Thanks, guys," Yujin said sincerely, looking at each of them. "I appreciate this, really." 

Liz waved him off. "Please, this is the least we could do." 

"Yeah," Giselle added, "we’re your friends now, right? Friends don’t let friends bulk up alone." 

Yujin laughed, genuinely happy. He felt that awkwardness he’d been carrying wash away. He wouldn’t have to worry about these things anymore — his insecurities, the jokes, the misunderstandings — they’d all been settled. 

From now on, he’d talk to Wonyoung if anything bothered him, and they’d be honest with each other. And as for his friends. Well, they’d gotten through the awkward phase, it’s all the teasing. 

As they waited for the food to arrive, Yujin felt lighter. This was a new beginning, a better one, where he didn’t have to worry about measuring up. They were all happy, and he and Wonyoung? They’d be happier from now on too. 

***

As they were eating and enjoying the conversation, the door of the restaurant swung open, and a group of girls walked in. Among them was Yuna who spotted Yujin almost immediately, her eyes lighting up with recognition. 

“Yujin!” Yuna called out, walking toward their table.

Yujin looked up and smiled back, putting his fork down. “Oh, hey, Yuna.” 

She approached the table, her long legs making quick strides as her friends lingered behind her. Yujin gestured toward Wonyoung and the others. “This is my girlfriend, Wonyoung,” he said with a proud smile. “And these are her friends, Liz and Giselle.” 

Yuna greeted them politely. “Nice to meet you all,” she said, before turning her attention back to Yujin. Her eyes then flickered to the large plate of carbonara in front of him, and with a teasing grin, she said, “Carbs, huh? Nice job, Yujin. Before he could respond, Yuna playfully reached out and squeezed his bicep, teasing him. “Looking good,” she winked, before turning back to join her friends. “Catch you later!” she called over her shoulder as she walked away, her hips swaying confidently. 

The moment Yuna left, the table fell into a brief silence. Liz, Giselle, and Wonyoung had all noticed the exchange. 

Wonyoung’s gaze followed Yuna as she walked away, a mixture of curiosity and subtle discomfort settling in her chest. “Yujin, who’s that?”

Yujin finished chewing before he answered casually. “That’s Yuna, my classmate. She’s been helping me with the changes I wanted to make — you know, with my style and stuff.” 

Wonyoung blinked, caught off guard. Yuna? Helping him with his changes? She tried to keep her face neutral, but inside, her thoughts were spinning. Yuna was undeniably gorgeous — tall, with a confident air that radiated from her. And the way she squeezed Yujin’s arm like that? It made Wonyoung’s stomach twist slightly. 

Liz, ever the sharp one, picked up on Wonyoung’s reaction, though she said nothing, just smirked knowingly. 

Giselle, on the other hand, nudged Wonyoung playfully under the table. “Looks like Yujin’s been getting some serious help,” she whispered, her eyes flicking toward where Yuna had disappeared. 

***

Wonyoung sat cross-legged on her bed in the dorm, absentmindedly scrolling through her phone while Liz and Giselle lounged around the room when Liz’s sudden gasp that broke the calm atmosphere. 

“Oh my God, look at this!” Liz exclaimed, her voice filled with exaggerated shock. She turned her phone screen toward Wonyoung and Giselle, showing a TikTok video. 

It was Yuna — dancing to the latest trending song, her moves captivating. The caption read something cheeky, and the comments were flooded with compliments about her style, beauty, and dance skills. Her TikTok account was verified, and her follower count was staggering. Wonyoung’s eyes narrowed slightly as she watched Yuna effortlessly twirl on the screen, beautiful and confident.

“Wow, she’s pretty popular,” Giselle remarked, her tone casual as she leaned over to get a better view. 

“She’s into fashion too,” Liz added, scrolling through more of Yuna’s content. “All these outfits and dancing videos... and she’s, like, super pretty.” 

Wonyoung bit her lip, feeling a subtle knot form in her stomach. She hadn’t expected Yuna to be this popular, let alone someone who was so public and admired. Watching Yuna dance on the screen, with her flawless appearance and sexy body, made Wonyoung feel a strange unease creeping up. 

Suddenly, Giselle nudged Wonyoung with a playful grin. “Uh oh, is someone getting jealous again?” 

Wonyoung immediately scoffed, shaking her head as if the mere suggestion was absurd. “Jealous? Of Yuna? No way.” She tried to sound confident, but her denial came out quicker than she expected. 

Giselle leaned back, crossing her arms with a knowing smirk. “Mmhmm, sure. You sound just like you did when Haewon was hanging around Yujin all the time. Now that there’s a new girl helping him out... you don’t like it, do you?” 

Wonyoung’s cheeks flushed slightly, but she quickly brushed off the comment. “That’s different. Haewon was... complicated, and Yuna’s just his classmate. She’s helping him, that’s all.” 

Liz, still glued to her phone, chimed in without looking up. “But admit it, she’s making you uncomfortable. Look at her — she’s got everything. Fashion, popularity, confidence. And now she’s helping Yujin change, something you wanted.” 

Wonyoung glanced away, feeling the weight of their words settling in. Was she really uncomfortable? 

Before Wonyoung could protest further, Liz added in a more serious tone, “You know, Wonyoung, you wanted Yujin to be more mature, right? But maybe you didn’t realize that by wanting him to be independent, you’re kind of pushing him to seek help from other people — like Yuna or Haewon — instead of from you. You’ve been critical of him, and now he’s finding someone else to help him figure things out.” 

Wonyoung froze, her heart sinking. Liz’s words hit deeper than she expected. She had wanted Yujin to grow up, to be more independent, but had she unknowingly pushed him away? Had she made him feel like he needed to look elsewhere for guidance? 

“Liz...” Wonyoung started, unsure of how to respond. She wanted to defend herself, but the truth behind Liz’s statement gnawed at her. 

Giselle, sensing the shift in mood, softened her tone. “We know you like Yujin, but you need to understand that he’s trying to change for you. It’s not wrong for him to ask for help, but maybe you should be the one guiding him instead of letting others take that place. You don’t want to create more distance between you two, do you?” 

Wonyoung sat back, her mind swirling with thoughts. She wasn’t jealous of Yuna — not exactly. But the idea of Yujin turning to someone else, especially someone like Yuna, for advice on how to change, stung more than she wanted to admit. 

She sighed, finally understanding what her friends were saying. “You’re right... I don’t want to push him away. I just... I don’t know. I thought I was helping him by wanting him to improve, but I guess I didn’t think about how he’d feel or what that would mean.” 

Liz smiled softly, putting her phone down. “You didn’t mean any harm, Wonyoung. But maybe just be a little more mindful about how you approach things. He’s down bad for you, and he’ll listen to you. You’re the one he’s changing for, not Yuna or anyone else.” 

As Giselle and Liz scrolled through Yuna’s social media feed, they kept raving about how popular she was — her flawless sense of style, her beauty, her appeal, her influence on social media. Wonyoung watched quietly as they admired the latest picture: a mirror selfie of Yuna at the gym from yesterday, looking confident and gorgeous. Yujin was in the background, lifting weights. 

Wonyoung's stomach twisted at the sight. Yuna, tall and curvy, oozed confidence. She was the kind of girl who could wear anything and make it look effortlessly stylish. In contrast, Wonyoung felt plain. She rarely wore more than simple outfits, often opting for minimal makeup, and standing next to someone like Yuna, she couldn’t help but feel a bit... flat. Yuna had the curves and the boldness that drew attention, while Wonyoung felt like she faded into the background with her understated style. 

Why am I even comparing myself to her? she thought, feeling a pang of frustration. But how can I not? 

Yuna was popular, confident, and, on top of that, she spent time with her Yujin. There he was, casually in the background of Yuna’s photo, looking fit and focused. Wonyoung had never really thought about it before, but now, seeing them in the same frame, a small voice in her mind whispered that Yuna and Yujin could easily make sense together. They were both outgoing, carefree, and, frankly, they looked good together. 

She had been so focused on Yujin changing for the better—studying harder, looking more put-together — that she hadn’t realized that in doing so, she had pushed him towards other people, like Yuna, who could be the one guiding him instead of her. 

Am I making a mistake? Wonyoung questioned herself. I wanted him to improve, but what if I’m just driving him away in the process? 

The thought stung. She could be the one standing by Yujin’s side, guiding him as he found his way, but instead, she felt like she had pushed him into someone else’s orbit, someone like Yuna who seemed to understand him in ways Wonyoung never could. The realization weighed heavily on her chest, filling her with doubt. 

I should be the one helping him, showing him the way — not watching from the sidelines, she thought, clenching her hands into fists under the table. I like him a lot, but I’m not even showing it the right way.

***

Wonyoung stood by the kitchen counter in the early morning light, meticulously crafting the small rice balls for Yujin’s lunchbox. Her brow was slightly furrowed in concentration as she carefully cut strips of seaweed into tiny shapes, using the molder she bought yesterday to create cute faces and patterns on the onigiri. It had taken her a bit of practice, but the small rice balls were now looking adorable, each with its own playful expression. 

The kitchen dorm was quiet, the only sound being the gentle clink of utensils as Wonyoung worked. She had already filled one lunchbox, lining the onigiri up neatly along with some side dishes, and was now focused on finishing the last one. The effort she was putting into this was clear, and she couldn’t help but smile a little at how cute the lunch was turning out. 

As she was about to place the last piece of seaweed on the final onigiri, Liz’s bedroom door creaked open. Liz shuffled out, still in her pajamas, her hair slightly tousled from sleep. She yawned, rubbing her eyes as she made her way into the kitchen, blinking when she noticed Wonyoung hunched over the counter, working diligently. 

“What’s all this?” Liz asked groggily, stepping closer to inspect what Wonyoung was doing. 

Wonyoung looked up, a sheepish smile tugging at her lips. “I’m making lunch for Yujin,” she explained, her voice soft but warm with intention. “I’ve been... well, kind of a terrible girlfriend lately, so I wanted to make it up to him. I thought packing a cute lunch would be a nice way to start.” 

Liz peered over Wonyoung’s shoulder, her eyes widening at the sight of the onigiri. Each rice ball had a tiny face, some smiling, others winking, with intricate little seaweed decorations. She let out a low whistle of appreciation. “These are way too cute to eat!” 

Wonyoung laughed lightly, still placing the last few pieces of seaweed onto the rice balls mixed with Dongwon tuna, Yujin’s favorite tuna brand. “I hope he eats them,” she said, but there was a hint of pride in her voice as she admired her work. She paused for a moment, reflecting on what she had just said, and then sighed softly. “Honestly, Liz, no wonder this is my first real relationship. I’m so terrible with guys.” 

Liz raised an eyebrow and leaned against the counter, crossing her arms. “Terrible? I mean, come on, you guys are learning.”

Wonyoung shook her head slightly, finishing up the last lunchbox. “No, really. I’ve been critical, bossy, and I keep wanting Yujin to change when he’s already so sweet and thoughtful. He’s made my life so much easier just by being there for me, but I haven’t done the same for him.” 

Liz’s expression softened as she listened to her friend. “Wonyoung, you’re not terrible. Relationships are about figuring things out as you go, right? Besides, you clearly care about him. Look at you, making him a lunchbox full of cute little onigiri faces.” 

Wonyoung smiled at that, glancing at the neatly packed lunch in front of her. “I know, but I’ve realized I need to do better. Yujin’s always been so understanding and supportive, even when I wasn’t being the easiest person to deal with. I want to do more for him... because he deserves someone who’s as sweet to him as he is to me.” 

Liz gave her a reassuring pat on the back. “You’re doing great, Wonyoung. He’ll love this. And hey, the fact that you’re thinking about these things means you’re already changing for the better.” 

Wonyoung nodded, she carefully placed the last onigiri into the lunchbox, closing it with a soft click. “I just want him to know I appreciate him,” she said quietly. “That I’m here for him too, not just the other way around.” 

Liz smiled, watching as Wonyoung tied a small ribbon around the lunchbox for an added touch. “Trust me, Wonyoung, he’ll know. You’re making an effort, and that’s what matters.” 

With the lunchbox finished, Wonyoung felt a sense of satisfaction wash over her. She wasn’t perfect, and she knew she still had a lot to learn about being in a relationship, but she was determined to be better — for Yujin, and for herself. 

***

Yujin wandered through the university park, his eyes scanning the rows of benches until he spotted Wonyoung sitting under the large oak tree. A smile immediately spread across his face as he quickened his pace, excitement bubbling inside him. Lunch with Wonyoung was always the highlight of his day, and today was no different. 

As he reached the bench, Wonyoung looked up and met his eyes, smiling softly as he approached. Yujin plopped down beside her, still slightly out of breath but grinning brightly. 

“Hey!” he greeted cheerfully. “So, what are we having for lunch today?” 

Wonyoung gave him a little smirk and placed a neatly wrapped lunchbox between them on the bench. “Actually, I made something for you,” she said, a hint of shyness in her voice. “Since you’ve been working on bulking up, I thought I’d pack you something special.” 

Yujin’s eyes lit up in surprise, and he eagerly opened the lunchbox. His face lit up even more when he saw the rows of adorable onigiri, each one with a cute seaweed face or shape, carefully crafted by Wonyoung. 

“Wow!” Yujin exclaimed with wide eyes, then, in his typical playful manner, he added, “WONIGIRI!” 

Wonyoung couldn’t help but laugh at his clever little wordplay, her heart warming at how effortlessly he could make her smile. “Wonigiri, huh?” she teased back, amused by his excitement. “I thought you’d like them.” 

Yujin’s eyes sparkled with gratitude as he admired the tiny rice balls. “I love them!” he said, picking one up with eager hands. “They’re so cute, I almost don’t want to eat them.” But without hesitation, he popped the onigiri into his mouth, chewing happily before giving her a thumbs-up. “Mmm! It’s really good!” 

Wonyoung let out a relieved breath, her smile softening. “I’m glad you like it,” she said. “I know I’ve been... well, a bit awful to you lately, and I haven’t been the best girlfriend. But I really wanted to show you that I appreciate you, too. You’ve always been so sweet and understanding, and I’ve realized I haven’t done the same for you. So... this is my way of making it up to you.” 

Yujin, still chewing, turned to her with his cheeks puffed full of rice, making him look even more adorable. “You will never be awful to me,” he mumbled through a full mouth, grinning. He quickly swallowed and added, “And this? This is amazing, Wonyoung. Seriously, I love it.” 

Wonyoung felt a flutter in her chest as she watched him enjoy the food she made with such care. She had spent the morning stressing over every detail, wanting to make something that would show him just how much he meant to her, and now seeing his bright smile, she felt that her efforts had paid off. 

“You’ve always been so good to me, Yujin,” she continued softly. “I’m sorry if I made you feel like I didn’t like you.” 

Yujin shook his head, reaching for another onigiri. “You don’t have to apologize,” he said, still smiling. “You’re doing more than enough just by being you.” 

Wonyoung’s heart swelled at his words, a mix of emotions swirling inside her. He was so simple, so easy to please, and yet he had a way of making her feel special without even trying. As she watched him happily devour another rice ball, she realized how lucky she was to have someone like Yujin in her life. 

“Besides,” Yujin added, after a moment of thought, “now that I’ve got these Wonigiri, I might just bulk up even faster!” 

Wonyoung laughed again, feeling the last bit of tension melt away between them. “I’ll make sure to pack you more lunches, then,” she promised.

***

As the days passed, Wonyoung made it a habit to prepare lunch for Yujin whenever she could find the time. She took great care in packing each meal, trying new recipes and making sure to balance his diet with his bulking-up goal in mind. But what she hadn’t expected was Yujin’s playful reactions every time she handed him the lunchbox. 

Without fail, Yujin would open the box with childlike excitement and immediately give whatever she made a new nickname. The first time, when she had packed egg rolls, he called them "Wonyrolls," grinning from ear to ear as he took a bite. The next time, when she made pasta, it became "Wonpasta," and he said it so eagerly that she couldn’t help but burst into laughter. Even the bread she baked one afternoon were dubbed "Wonbread.” 

It became a running joke between them, and each time Wonyoung would roll her eyes in mock exasperation, but deep down, she found it incredibly sweet how he never failed to get excited over the meals she made for him. He had this way of making even the simplest things feel special, and she loved that about him. 

In return, Yujin always made sure to surprise her with food too. He would randomly show up with her favorite desserts, sweet pastries from the bakery, or a cup of bubble tea when she least expected it. He never wanted her to go hungry, and he liked making her smile the way she did for him. 

One day, as they sat on a bench during lunch, Yujin handed her a slice of cake he had brought for her, and Wonyoung smiled teasingly. "You’re not trying to bulk me up too, are you? You always get me desserts." 

Yujin chuckled, shaking his head. “Nope, just making sure my girlfriend’s never hungry.” 

Wonyoung grinned, leaning against him as she unwrapped the cake. "You’re too sweet." Then, curiosity sparked in her eyes, and she looked up at him. “How’s your gym journey going, by the way? You’ve been working really hard.” 

Yujin, feeling a sudden surge of confidence and wanting to be a little bolder, leaned in close. His voice dropped to a low whisper, and he smirked mischievously. “Well… how about I show you when we’re both naked with each other?” 

Wonyoung’s eyes widened in shock, her face flushing a deep red at his boldness. She hadn’t expected him to say something so forward, and she felt a rush of embarrassment mix with a flutter of excitement. “Y-Yujin!” she stammered, playfully shoving his shoulder, though she couldn’t hide the smile tugging at her lips. 

Yujin laughed, leaning back with a triumphant grin, clearly proud of his teasing. “Just saying,” he added, his tone still playful but his gaze softening as he looked at her. “You’ll see soon enough.” 

Wonyoung blushed harder, her heart racing, but a part of her couldn’t help but appreciate the new side of Yujin — the side that was becoming a little more confident and back to being playful in their relationship. 

“Well, I’ll be the judge of that,” she managed to say, her voice still flustered but playful. “But for now, finish your Wonchicken.” 

Wonyoung felt a wave of vulnerability wash over her and she wants to get close to Yujin on a deeper level, and before she could stop herself, the words tumbled out. "You know… I’ve always been insecure about my weight too," she confessed softly, her eyes fixed on the ground. 

Yujin immediately turned to her, concern etched on his face. “Why?” he asked, his tone gentle but worried. “You’re perfect, Wonyoung.” 

She let out a small, humorless laugh, still avoiding his gaze as she continued. “Back in high school, a couple of guys used to make comments. They’d always tell me that I was beautiful, but they’d add that I looked like a stick because I’m tall and really slim. They’d joke about how I was probably flat because of it.” 

As she spoke, the memories stirred an old discomfort in her, and she crossed her arms, as if trying to protect herself from those past insecurities. “It’s silly, I know… but ever since then, I’ve felt insecure about my body.” 

Yujin’s jaw clenched, and a fierce protectiveness flared in his eyes. “Who are they? I’ll fucking kill them!” he spat out, his sudden anger catching Wonyoung off guard. 

Wonyoung’s eyes widened at his reaction, and she couldn’t help but burst into laughter, despite the heaviness of the moment. His fierce defense, while a bit over the top, was also incredibly sweet. "Yujin, calm down! It was years ago," she said between laughs, touched by his protectiveness. 

But Yujin wasn’t laughing. His fists were clenched, and he still looked ready to storm off and track down the guys who had hurt her. “I’m serious! They had no right to say that to you. You’re beautiful just the way you are. No one speaks like that to my girlfriend!” 

“I know… I know. But it still made me insecure for a long time. I’ve always been so conscious of my body because of that.” 

“You have nothing to be insecure about, Wonyoung. You’re beautiful, inside and out. And anyone who made you feel otherwise is just an idiot.” 

“Thank you,” she whispered, her voice barely audible. “I’m glad I told you about this.”

Yujin smiled, his thumb brushing over the back of her hand. “I’m glad you told me too. And from now on, I’ll remind you every day how amazing you are.” 

Wonyoung felt her heart skip a beat, and for the first time in a long time, she felt like maybe those old insecurities didn’t have as much power over her anymore. Not when Yujin was by her side, making her feel like she was more than enough. 

She leaned in, resting her head on his shoulder, feeling lighter than she had in a long time. "I don’t deserve you," she murmured. 

Yujin chuckled softly, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. "It’s the other way around, Wonyoung. Trust me." 

***

As Yujin had finally moved into his new apartment, it was the perfect excuse for everyone to gather and have a few drinks. Everyone was free tonight. Liz, Giselle, Wonyoung, and Seulwoo were all there, sitting around Yujin’s living room, laughing, and chatting over bottles of soju and beer. 

Seulwoo was talking about his new internship, sharing funny stories from his first week. "I swear, the guy in charge of me thinks I’m some coffee-fetching robot," Seulwoo groaned dramatically, making everyone laugh. 

"Isn’t that what interns are for?" Liz teased, her eyes glinting playfully as she took a sip of her drink. "But seriously, how’s it going?" 

Seulwoo shrugged. "It's tough, but I’m learning a lot. The workload is insane, though." 

Wonyoung, Liz, and Giselle started to share their own updates, mostly about their law classes. "We’ve been drowning in case studies," Wonyoung groaned, leaning back on the couch. "Professor Kim is relentless with the readings. But," she smirked, "it's kind of satisfying. I love it when the arguments all click." 

Liz nodded in agreement. "Yeah, but it’s also exhausting. I can't remember the last time I had a proper night of sleep." 

As the night wore on and the alcohol flowed, everyone got a little more relaxed, their conversations turning looser, laughter a bit louder. It was a night of good vibes, with everyone enjoying the rare moment of fun amid their busy schedules. 

Later, when the alcohol had fully settled in and the room was filled with a comfortable haze, Yujin noticed everyone was getting sleepy. Liz, Giselle, and Wonyoung were already nodding off in the living room. 

Yujin stood up and stretched. "Hey, you three can take my bed. I’ll sleep out here with Seulwoo." 

The girls were too tired (and drunk) to argue, so they sluggishly agreed. Wonyoung gave Yujin a sleepy smile. "Thanks, Yujin." 

With that settled, Yujin set up the bed for them, leaving the girls to sleep comfortably in his room, while he and Seulwoo were supposed to sleep in the living room. But as it turned out, Seulwoo had already sprawled out on the couch, snoring loudly before Yujin could even find a pillow for himself. Yujin sighed, looking at the tiny space left on the couch — there was no way he could squeeze in there with Seulwoo. 

Instead of forcing it, he decided to just sit at the small dining table and clean up the leftovers from their night. As he was stacking plates, he heard soft footsteps behind him. 

“Yujin?” Wonyoung’s voice was soft, and when he turned around, she was standing there, looking a little drowsy. "You okay?" 

"Yeah, just cleaning up a bit. What about you? Shouldn’t you be asleep?" 

Wonyoung rubbed her eyes, stepping closer. "I came to check on you. You don’t have any space to sleep. Seulwoo’s hogging the whole couch." She looked around at the messy table and started helping him pick up the plates. 

"You don’t have to do that," Yujin said, though he appreciated the help. 

Wonyoung shook her head, stacking the empty bottles. "It’s fine. I feel bad we’re taking your bed... this is your apartment, and your bed.” 

"It’s really okay. I’m just glad you all came. It’s nice having everyone here." 

They worked quietly for a few more moments, cleaning up the remnants of their night together. The sound of Seulwoo’s loud snores echoed from the living room, making them both stifle a laugh. 

As Yujin and Wonyoung sat at the small dining table, still tipsy from the evening’s drinks, the low hum of Seulwoo’s snores filled the background. Yujin glanced at Wonyoung, feeling a surge of courage thanks to the alcohol. His heart raced as the words he had been holding back all night floated to the surface.
 
“Can I ask you something?” 

Wonyoung, her face still slightly flushed from the alcohol, turned her head toward him, curious. “Sure.” 

Yujin took a breath, rubbing the back of his neck nervously, his gaze dropping to the table before he looked back at her. “What if... sometimes I have, you know... inappropriate thoughts?” The words came out shaky, his cheeks heating up as soon as he said them. “I just... I don’t know if I should say it or act on it because I respect you so much.” 

Wonyoung blinked, her lips parting slightly. Yujin couldn’t tell if she was amused, curious, or a little caught off guard. She tilted her head, her long hair shifting with the movement. “Inappropriate?” she repeated, her eyes narrowing slightly in curiosity. “What do you mean by that?” 

Yujin swallowed, his nerves creeping up his spine. He wasn’t sure why it felt so hard to explain, but the alcohol was pushing the words out. “Like... when we’re close, you know?” He stammered, feeling his face heat up even more. “I sometimes want to... touch you more, or do things without asking. But I don’t know if it’s too much...” 

Wonyoung stared at him for a long moment, her expression unreadable. Yujin’s heart pounded, unsure if she’d freak out or understand what he meant. The silence stretched between them, and he could feel the tension in his chest. 

Then, Wonyoung smiled — a slow, soft smile that put him at ease, but also made his pulse quicken. “So... you’re asking if you should act on those thoughts or talk to me about them first?” 

Yujin nodded, the words tumbling out. “Yeah... I just don’t want to make you uncomfortable. But I also don’t want you to think I don’t, you know... want you. But I don’t know if it’s… too much.” 

Wonyoung paused, biting her lip thoughtfully, her eyes drifting down as if considering his words carefully. After a moment, she looked back up at him, her smile returning, but this time with a hint of something bolder. “It’s nice that you’re talking about this now,” she said, her voice steady despite the slight haze of alcohol. “But... if you’re wondering what I think?” She paused again, the playful glint in her eyes returning. “I kind of like it when you surprise me sometimes. Like... just go for it, you know?” 

Yujin blinked, surprised by her response. “Really?”

Wonyoung laughed slightly, her fingers brushing through her hair as she nodded. “Yeah. I love how respectful you are, Yujin, I really do. But... you don’t have to be careful all the time. I’m your girlfriend. If I don’t like something, I’ll tell you. But sometimes... I like when you just have things figured out, when you surprise me, when you do something I don’t expect at all.” Her eyes flicked to him with a soft but bold look, making Yujin’s heart skip a beat. 

“So... I can act on those thoughts sometimes?” 

Wonyoung leaned closer, her breath smelling faintly of soju, her cheeks still flushed. “Yeah,” she said, her smile widening as she glanced down for a moment before meeting his gaze again. “Just... surprise me.” She laughed softly, her eyes shimmering with a mix of amusement and attraction. 

Chapter Text

The morning after the party at Yujin’s dorm, the place was eerily quiet except for the occasional snores from Seulwoo, who was sprawled out on the couch. Yujin, who had fallen asleep in the most uncomfortable position imaginable — slumped over his desk chair with his arms on the table — was the first to stir. His eyes fluttered open, his neck stiff and sore, but his mind immediately wandered back to his conversation with Wonyoung last night. They had talked about something more intimate, with him carefully asking if he could act on his "inappropriate thoughts," and he was sure that, in her own way, Wonyoung had given him a sort of green light. 

He smiled at the thought, his heart warm from their growing closeness, and the fact that they were getting more comfortable talking about such things. Feeling energized despite the rough night's sleep, Yujin decided to seize the moment and do something nice for Wonyoung — and maybe for everyone else too. He quietly slipped out of the dorm and headed to the convenience store nearby to pick up a few ingredients. 

When he returned with a bag full of groceries, Seulwoo was still dead to the world on the couch, and the rest of the dorm remained silent. Yujin chuckled to himself and moved quietly around the kitchen, determined to make breakfast. Wonyoung would probably wake up soon, and he wanted her to have a sweet surprise when she did. 

He placed his phone in front of him as he watched a YouTube tutorial. His brow furrowed slightly in concentration. This was his first time trying to cook something beyond instant ramen, so he was determined to make it right. He didn’t want to mess it up, especially not for Wonyoung. The video was filled with quick, step-by-step instructions, and Yujin followed each one carefully, his focus entirely on the task at hand. 

He rummaged through the fridge and pulled out some eggs, milk, and butter, then grabbed a loaf of bread. "French toast should be good," he muttered to himself as he cracked the eggs into a bowl, adding milk and a dash of cinnamon, then whisked them together. He cut the bread into thick slices, ready to dip them in the mixture. 

A moment later, "Yujin, what are you doing?" Wonyoung’s voice echoed in the small kitchen counter.

Yujin, who had been so absorbed in his cooking, didn’t notice her at first. He turned slightly, a big smile spreading across his face when he saw her standing in the doorway of his room. "Good morning, Wonyoung!" he said with a grin, clearly proud of himself. "This is Wonyoung’s menu!" 

Wonyoung blinked in surprise, then stepped closer, noticing the strange sight before her. Yujin was holding slices of bread that were dipped in a mixture of eggs and milk, and there was something about it that seemed... off. He was using the scissors to cut the bread. She squinted, tilting her head slightly. "Yujin, what is that?" she said, pointing to the odd-looking bread he was mixing with the eggs. "It’s bad to play with food." 

Yujin's face dropped for a moment, clearly worried that he had messed up somehow. He quickly defended himself, his eyes wide with urgency. "No, no! It’s French toast!" he said, almost as if trying to convince himself as much as her. "It’ll be good, I promise!" 

Wonyoung looked at him skeptically, but her lips quirked into a smile. "French toast?" she repeated, raising an eyebrow. "You sure you know what you’re doing?" 

Yujin nodded enthusiastically, turning back to the pan where the bread was slowly turning golden. "I watched a tutorial on YouTube, so it’s gonna be perfect. You’ll see!" he said, trying to reassure her.

Wonyoung crossed her arms, watching him carefully as he worked. He looked a little clueless. "Well, as long as you’re sure," she said teasingly.

Yujin's eyes sparkled as he grinned back at her. "But you won’t be disappointed. I hope." 

Wonyoung sat down in the chair with a warm, affectionate smile spreading across her face as she watched Yujin put his all into making her breakfast. Even if the French toast looked a little questionable, it was the thought that mattered. 

After a few more minutes of carefully watching the pan and following the tutorial, Yujin finally plated the last slice of French toast. He looked over at Wonyoung, who was now seated at the small dining table, still skeptical but curious. He placed a plate in front of her with a flourish, as if presenting a five-star meal. 

"Voilà! French toast, Yujinnie style," he said with a playful grin, clearly proud of himself.

Wonyoung picked up her fork as she raised an eyebrow at him. "Alright, let’s see if this is edible," she teased before popping the bite into her mouth. For a second, her expression was unreadable, and Yujin watched her intently, his own bite of French toast suspended in mid-air as he waited for her reaction. 

Then, her eyes widened in surprise, and she smiled. "Wow," she said, chewing slowly before nodding. "Yujin, this is actually good." 

Yujin practically beamed with pride, his face lighting up like a child who had just been told he’d done a great job. "Really? You’re not just saying that, right?" he asked as he took a bite himself. 

Wonyoung laughed, shaking her head. "Nope, I’m serious. I didn’t expect it to taste this good." She took another bite, clearly enjoying it now. 

"Yes!" Yujin pumped his fist in the air, proud of his unexpected success in the kitchen. "See, I told you I could do it! Yujin, master chef!" he joked, earning a playful eye-roll from Wonyoung. 

As they ate together, the sound of stirring from the other room signaled that the rest of the dorm was waking up. Soon, Seulwoo stumbled into the small living area, rubbing his eyes and looking confused. 

"What’s that smell?" he muttered, still half-asleep. His eyes landed on the table filled with French toast, and he blinked in surprise. "Wait, Yujin made breakfast?" 

Yujin grinned at his friend. "That’s right! French toast, help yourself." 

Before long, the others — groggy and looking a little worse for wear after the party — started filtering in, drawn by the smell of food. One by one, they grabbed forks and started digging in, all of them surprised that Yujin, of all people, had managed to pull off a decent breakfast. 

***

The early morning sun barely peeked through the blinds of Yujin’s apartment, but he was already up and stretching, preparing for his usual jog. The past few weeks had been a blur of exams, quizzes, and projects, leaving him feeling drained, but his newfound determination kept him going. He had made a promise to himself to get into better shape and now, every morning, he woke up before sunrise to jog and hit the gym. Even if it was just for half an hour, it was a start. Sometimes, he would squeeze in a quick workout at night if his schedule allowed, focusing on his arms, abs and chest. He wanted to feel more confident. 

As he ran through the park, the cool morning air fresh against his face, his thoughts turned to Wonyoung. She hadn’t said anything about his changes, but that didn’t mean she hadn’t noticed. She was observant, and Yujin could feel the tension between them. They were always busy, barely finding time for each other lately, but they managed to sneak in dates when they could. Yet, as much as he wanted to do something special for her, he was just unsure where to start. 

“Maybe I should ask Yuna for more advice,” Yujin muttered to himself as he slowed to a walk, catching his breath. Yuna had been quite blunt when it came to style and self-improvement. She gave him recommendations for what to wear, told him which scents to pick — she even made him buy a new cologne after telling him that his old one was too “juvenile.” He had no idea if she was right, but he trusted her instincts. After all, she seemed to know a thing or two about what women liked. 

Later that day, after finishing his gym session, Yujin showered and prepared for his next class, his mind still occupied with thoughts of Wonyoung. He checked his phone, and the familiar notifications from Wonyoung popped up. She’d texted him earlier about their plans after school — another study session in the library. As much as he loved spending time with her, he wanted to make a move. 

***

Yujin stepped into the quiet library, scanning the rows of tables for Wonyoung. It wasn’t hard to spot her — she sat in a corner near the window, focused intently on her notes, her hair tucked behind one ear, her expression serious. A soft smile crept onto Yujin's face as he watched her, thinking about how cute she looked when she was so focused.

He decided to surprise her.

Sneaking up behind her quietly, Yujin leaned down and planted a quick kiss on her cheek. Wonyoung jumped in surprise, letting out a small yelp, causing a ripple of heads to turn toward them. Yujin immediately shushed her, his eyes wide as he bowed apologetically to the other students who were now staring at them. "Sorry, sorry!" he whispered urgently, glancing at the disapproving glances of the others. 

Wonyoung, equally flustered, bowed her head too, muttering a quiet apology under her breath. Once the attention around them died down, she turned to Yujin with wide eyes, her face slightly pink. "You scared me!" she whispered harshly, trying not to smile despite the embarrassment. 

Yujin scratched the back of his neck sheepishly. "Sorry, I didn’t mean to make you jump," he whispered. He looked around, making sure no one was still staring, then gave her an innocent smile. "I just wanted to say hi." 

Wonyoung sighed, but there was a small smile tugging at her lips. "Next time, just tap my shoulder, okay?" she whispered.

Yujin grinned, sliding into the seat beside her. "Noted," he said, leaning in a little closer. "But you’re just so cute when you’re concentrating. I couldn’t help myself." 

***

The library had grown quieter as the night stretched on. Outside, the sky had darkened completely, and the faint glow of streetlights flickered through the windows. 

Wonyoung was sitting at her desk, her attention deep in her textbook, while Yujin sat beside her, struggling to keep his eyes open. His jacket was draped over her shoulders. He let out a small yawn, rubbing his eyes before slumping back in his chair. 

Noticing his tiredness, Wonyoung paused and reached over to grab his hand, gently intertwining her fingers with his. She looked up at him. “Just a bit more, okay? I need to finish these last few pages.” 

Yujin, despite being sleepy, smiled at her warmly. His eyes softened as he squeezed her hand. “Take your time.”

Wonyoung leaned her head on his shoulder, closing her eyes for a moment, appreciating the warmth and comfort of his presence.

***

As the library slowly emptied out, the remaining students quietly gathered their things and made their way out, leaving just Yujin and Wonyoung alone in the secluded corner.

Wonyoung gathered a few books in her arms, ready to return them to the shelves. Yujin followed behind her, but as they neared the farthest shelves, his mind was racing with an idea. No one else was around; even the cameras couldn’t see them from here. Suddenly, Yujin’s hand found her waist, and before she could process what was happening, he gently but firmly pushed her against one of the tall shelves. 

“Yujin!” Wonyoung gasped, wide-eyed with surprise. "What are you doing?" 

Yujin’s eyes sparkled mischievously as he leaned in, his breath warm against her lips. “Everyone’s gone,” he whispered. “No one can see us here.” 

Before she could protest, his lips captured hers in a fervent kiss, his body pressing into hers as his arms wrapped around her, pulling her close. Wonyoung’s mind spun — this wasn’t like Yujin, not this bold — but she found herself melting into the kiss despite the shock, her heart racing as his hands began to roam lower. 

Her senses heightened as she felt Yujin’s grip tighten on her hips, his hands slipping down to her ass, kneading softly, pulling her even closer. The firmness of his body against hers, the subtle press of his hardness against her thigh, sent heat rushing through her body. Her breath hitched as he moved his lips from her mouth to her neck, leaving hot, lingering kisses on her exposed collarbone, making her gasp quietly in surprise. 

“Yujin… we’re in the library,” she murmured, her voice weak with a mix of hesitation and desire as she held onto his neck, fingers threading through his hair. 

“I know…” he whispered between kisses, his mouth trailing along the soft skin of her neck. “But no one’s here. Just us.” 

Her pulse quickened, her hands gripping the fabric of his shirt as their bodies pressed together. The intoxicating sensation of his lips on her skin and his hands holding her so firmly made it hard to think straight. Wonyoung could feel the growing warmth between them, the intensity building with each kiss, each touch. Her body reacted instinctively, her leg brushing against the bulge in Yujin’s pants, making him groan softly against her skin. 

As their kisses deepened, Yujin's body pressed more firmly into Wonyoung's, and in a swift, teasing motion, he slid one of his legs between her thighs. The sudden friction of his leg brushing against her crotch sent a shock through her body, causing her to moan softly against his lips, the unexpected sensation making her hips involuntarily grind against him. 

Wonyoung’s breath hitched, her pulse racing as she felt his thigh press into her, the rough fabric creating a delicious friction that made her gasp each time she moved. It was so new, so intense — she couldn’t believe how sensitive she was feeling. Each subtle movement of his leg sent waves of pleasure through her lower body, making it harder to keep her breathing steady. 

Yujin, fueled by the reaction he was drawing from her, let one of his hands slip beneath her clothes. His fingers brushed lightly over her bare stomach, the heat of his hand sending a shiver up her spine. As his hand slowly moved upwards, it passed her bra line, his fingers tracing the curve of her back, feeling the softness of her skin. 

Wonyoung gasped again, biting her lip to hold back another moan as Yujin adjusted his leg between her thighs, the pressure increasing with each subtle movement. Every brush of his thigh against her crotch made her body jerk slightly in response, her knees feeling weak as she clung to him, her face buried in his shoulder as the tension in her body built higher and higher. She had never felt this kind of heat before.

Her hips instinctively began to grind against his leg, her body craving more of the friction that had her gasping. Wonyoung's mind was clouded, every rational thought slipping away - the library, the rules, the silence, the quiet moans escaping her lips betraying how much she was losing control under his hands. The thrill of being caught only added to the intensity of it all, making the moment all the more electrifying. 

Just as Yujin's fingers traced the edge of Wonyoung's underwear, a tantalizing shiver ran down her spine. The heat of his touch sent her pulse racing as she anticipated what was to come next, her breath catching in her throat. But just as Yujin was about to slip his fingers inside her pants, they both froze at the unmistakable sound of footsteps approaching. 

In a flash, their senses snapped back to reality. They quickly pulled apart, hearts pounding, smoothing out their clothes and trying to hide the flush that had overtaken their faces. Wonyoung straightened her shirt and ran a hand through her hair as Yujin fumbled to put the books back on the shelf, both of them pretending they were just casually returning their items. Their bodies were still humming from the intensity of the moment, but the risk of getting caught forced them to calm themselves. 

They exchanged a quick, wide-eyed glance, stifling their laughter and flustered breaths as they tried to look as normal as possible. As the footsteps grew closer, Wonyoung grabbed Yujin's hand and tugged him gently, whispering, "Let's go." 

She glanced at Yujin, biting her lip to stop herself from smiling too much. "We almost got caught," she whispered, her cheeks still flushed.

Yujin leaned in close to Wonyoung. His lips brushed against her ear, his voice low and teasing, "We can continue this at my apartment." 

His words sent a shiver through her, and Wonyoung felt her body react instantly, her breath hitching as his lips barely grazed hers. Her heart was racing, her mind filled with the warmth of his touch, the pressure of his hands on her body from earlier. She could already feel the dampness between her thighs, a lingering reminder of how much she wanted him. Her body ached for more, for his hands, his mouth, for everything they’d almost started. 

But then, like a cold splash of reality, the thought of her upcoming quiz tomorrow hit her. She couldn’t afford to let her mind slip into this haze of desire, no matter how badly her body craved it. Her grades were important, and she knew she needed to focus, even if the temptation of Yujin’s touch felt impossible to resist at this moment. 

Wonyoung waged on as she bit her lip, trying to push away the arousal swirling through her. I really want this... she thought, feeling her underwear damp with the evidence of her desire. But I have to study... I can’t get distracted now, even if all I want is to let Yujin touch me more... 

She took a deep breath, finally pulling away slightly. "I would love to," she admitted, the temptation clear in her eyes, "but I have to study for my quiz tomorrow." 

Yujin groaned in playful frustration, but then smiled, clearly understanding. He cupped her face, planting a gentle kiss on her forehead. "We have plenty of next times." 

With that, they started walking back to her dorm, the tension still hanging in the air between them. As they reached the entrance, Yujin pulled her in close again, their lips meeting in a hungry, heated kiss. They held onto each other tightly, hands roaming in one last embrace before they parted for the night. 

"Goodnight," Wonyoung whispered, her lips tingling from their kiss as they finally pulled apart.

"Goodnight," Yujin replied, his eyes dark with lingering desire before he finally turned to leave, leaving Wonyoung breathless and still feeling the heat of their stolen moments.

***

Students gathered at the entrance to the sprawling campus park, which had been transformed into a large, eerie horror house adventure in honor of the Halloween. Dim orange lights flickered along the paths, casting long shadows from the trees, and faint sounds of wind and distant, eerie moans filled the air. There was a chill, both from the crisp autumn weather and the anticipation in the air. 

Yujin, Wonyoung, Liz, and Giselle stood together in a huddle, looking around as they waited for the event to start. The park was packed with students, many of them dressed as zombies, ghosts, or other creatures of the night. The main rule of the game was simple: stay quiet. If anyone made too much noise, the “zombies” lurking in the shadows would "kill" them, eliminating them from the game. 

Liz and Giselle were already strategizing, whispering to each other. “I think we’ll be fine. We just need to keep calm and stay quiet,” Liz said, shooting Giselle a confident look. 

“Yeah, but let’s be real, if something jumps out at you, you are going to scream,” Giselle whispered back, making Liz roll her eyes in mock exasperation. 

Wonyoung nudged Yujin with a smirk. “So, do you think you can handle this without screaming?” she teased, remembering how easily startled he could be sometimes. 

Yujin grinned at her, trying to seem confident. “Umm… Yes… I was born for this… kind of stuff. You, on the other hand... I’m not sure if you’ll make it,” he teased back. 

She raised an eyebrow, playfully narrowing her eyes at him. “We’ll see about that.” 

Soon, the game master, a student dressed in a dark, ominous cloak with a scythe in hand, approached the group and handed them their first task cards. Each pair would receive a different objective to complete throughout the park, while staying quiet and avoiding the zombies. 

Wonyoung and Yujin were handed their card: "Retrieve the lost key from the Old Oak Tree without being noticed." 

Liz and Giselle exchanged a glance as they received their task: "Find the hidden scroll near the fountain and deliver it to the library." 

***

As Yujin and Wonyoung quietly navigated through the eerie, dimly lit park, both of them were on edge. The shadows of the towering trees loomed large, and every rustle of leaves sent a shiver down their spines. They tried to stay calm, but the haunting atmosphere and the lurking "zombies" were making it harder and harder to keep their cool. Yujin was gripping Wonyoung’s hand tightly, and though they were both putting on brave faces, deep down, they were both scared. 

The task seemed simple enough: find the Old Oak Tree and retrieve the key. But with so many trees around, identifying the right one was proving to be more difficult than they thought. Every tree seemed ancient and ominous in the low light. 

“There’s so many trees here. How are we supposed to know which one is the right one?” Wonyoung whispered, her voice barely audible. 

Yujin squinted, trying to spot something that looked like an “Old Oak Tree.” His heart was racing, and he felt scared, but he didn’t want to show how nervous he really was. “Just keep looking… there’s gotta be something,” he whispered back. 

As they crept through the trees, Yujin suddenly spotted something — a small plastic tube inserted into the side of one of the trees. His eyes widened with excitement. “Wonyoung, look!” he whispered, tugging her sleeve gently. “I think I found something!” 

Wonyoung raised an eyebrow, curious but cautious. They tiptoed toward the tree, being extra careful not to make any noise. Wonyoung knelt down, slowly pulling the tube from the tree carefully. Her heart raced, thinking they’d found a hidden clue. But as soon as she fully pulled it out and examined it, her face froze. It wasn’t a clue at all — it was just a tube for the tree’s fertilizer. 

She felt a laugh bubbling up in her throat, and she quickly pressed her lips together to stifle it. Yujin’s eyes widened in realization, and he instantly covered his mouth with both hands to stop himself from laughing out loud. 

Wonyoung glanced at him, and their eyes met, both of them struggling to contain their laughter. Her shoulders shook as she silently giggled, holding back the sound with all her might. She reached out to lightly punch Yujin, but then stopped herself, knowing any noise would get them caught. Instead, she grabbed his arm, half-playfully squeezing it as her body shook with silent laughter. 

“You idiot,” she whispered in a barely audible voice, her eyes sparkling with amusement. “It’s just fertilizer!” 

Yujin’s face was bright red, both from embarrassment and the effort to hold back his laughter. He couldn’t help it — he found the whole situation absolutely hilarious. With Wonyoung still holding his arm, he grabbed her hand and pulled her toward a corner behind one of the larger trees where they could be a little less visible. Once they were tucked away, they finally let out soft, breathless laughs, careful to keep their voices low. 

“I can’t believe I thought that was a clue,” Yujin whispered, his voice shaking with laughter. 

Wonyoung shook her head, still giggling. “You’re so stupid,” she whispered back. “I can’t believe we almost got caught over a tree fertilizer.” 

They both leaned against the tree, laughing as quietly as they could, their bodies pressed close as they shared the ridiculousness of the moment. Even though the night was supposed to be scary, Yujin’s silly mistake had brought them a brief moment of joy. 

After they calmed down, Yujin wiped a tear from the corner of his eye, still grinning. “Alright, let’s get serious again,” he said, though the smile on his face showed he wasn’t quite over the laughter yet. 

Wonyoung took a deep breath, her lips still curved into a soft smile. “Yeah, let’s find the real clue this time.” 

***

As Yujin and Wonyoung continued searching through the rows of trees, the eerie silence of the park was broken only by the soft rustling of leaves under their feet. Their earlier laughter had faded into determined focus as they checked each tree, careful not to make any noise that might attract the “zombies.” 

Wonyoung was scanning a nearby tree when her eyes suddenly caught something glinting in the faint light. “Yujin,” she whispered excitedly, pointing toward a small key hanging from a low branch. They had found it! 

But just as Wonyoung reached out to grab the key, her hand brushed against a dry branch, and the loud crack echoed through the park. Her heart sank as she realized her mistake. 

Before either of them could react, they heard a low growl behind them. Slowly turning their heads, they saw a group of students dressed as zombies approaching, their eyes locked on Yujin and Wonyoung. The sudden noise had given away their location. 

“Oh no,” Wonyoung whispered, her eyes wide with panic. Without thinking, she instinctively stepped in front of Yujin, shielding him from the advancing “zombies,” her body tense as she prepared for the worst. 

Yujin, though startled by her protective stance, was scanning the area, desperately trying to think of a way to escape. That’s when he spotted it — a lone basketball lying on the ground, half-hidden in the shadows. An idea struck him. 

In one swift motion, Yujin grabbed the basketball and, with all his might, threw it as far as he could into the distance. The ball bounced and rolled, causing a loud thud, thud, thud as it hit the ground. The sound immediately drew the attention of the zombies, who turned their heads and began to shuffle toward the noise. 

“Now!” Yujin whispered urgently, grabbing Wonyoung’s hand. They bolted in the opposite direction, running as fast as they could through the trees. 

They stumbled upon a small locker room hidden at the edge of the park, and without hesitation, Yujin pulled Wonyoung inside. As soon as they were both through the door, Yujin quickly locked it behind them, his breath coming in quick gasps from both exertion and laughter. 

The darkness inside the locker room enveloped them, and they both collapsed against the wall, trying to catch their breath. The dim light from outside barely filtered in, casting faint shadows on their faces. Their hearts were racing, but the thrill of their narrow escape made them both start laughing, the sound barely controlled as they tried to stay quiet. 

Wonyoung shook her head, still smiling. “You were quick on that one.” 

Yujin shrugged playfully, the mischievous glint in his eyes sparkling even in the dark. “Well, I couldn’t let them get us. We’re a team.” 

As Yujin sat down on the floor behind the door, he looked up at Wonyoung, who was still standing beside him. He glanced at the ground and grinned. “The floor is dirty. You could sit on my lap instead.”

Wonyoung giggled softly, loving his lightheartedness. She decided to tease him back, raising an eyebrow and smirking. “You can’t handle me,” she said, trying to sound bold, but her heart raced at the thought. 

Yujin leaned forward, his expression full of challenge. “Try me.” 

Smiling, Wonyoung gave in and carefully lowered herself onto his lap, sitting sideways. As soon as she settled, Yujin’s hands naturally found their place — one resting on her thigh, the other on the small of her back. She felt the warmth of his touch seep through her joggers, his fingers unconsciously caressing her thigh. A shiver ran through her, but she tried to keep her cool. 

“Tonight’s been fun, hasn’t it?” 

“Yeah, it really has,” Wonyoung agreed, her smile soft but her thoughts racing. “I wonder if Liz and Giselle survived all of this.” 

But even as she spoke, her attention was drawn to the feeling of Yujin’s hand gently trailing over the sensitive skin of her inner thigh. It sent a rush of warmth through her body, making her hyper-aware of how close they were. She could feel the pressure of his lap underneath her, the fabric of her joggers doing little to lessen the sensation of sitting directly on his crotch. The heat between them was undeniable, growing with every passing second. 

Wonyoung’s breath hitched, her body instinctively reacting to the tension. Without thinking, she reached up and cupped Yujin’s face in her hands, pulling him toward her. Their lips met in a soft but urgent kiss, and suddenly, the playfulness from before was replaced with a heady desire. Yujin responded immediately, his lips parting as he kissed her back, deeper and more intense. 

His hand on her thigh began to move, tracing slow, deliberate circles as it inched higher, dangerously close to her core. The sensation made Wonyoung’s legs part slightly, inviting his touch as her body responded to him. She could feel the heat pooling low in her belly as their tongues tangled together, the intensity of the kiss making both of them let out soft, breathless moans. 

Yujin’s other hand slid up her back, pulling her closer as he kissed her harder, more desperately. His fingers brushed along her inner thigh, making her tremble with anticipation as they roamed closer to her center. Every touch, every caress seemed to heighten the tension between them, and Wonyoung couldn’t help but arch into him, wanting more. 

As Wonyoung kissed Yujin, her mind began to race. Since that talk we had, things have been so much smoother, she thought, feeling the warmth of his body pressed against hers. Yujin isn’t awkward around me anymore, not like before. We’ve grown so comfortable with each other, even when it comes to being physical. Moments like this had become more frequent, and for the first time, she realized how much they had changed as a couple. Just like right now... we’re actually starting to get comfortable with this side of things too. 

Suddenly, Wonyoung felt Yujin’s hand slide further between her legs, and then he started rubbing her over her pants. The pressure of his touch sent a jolt of pleasure through her, and before she could stop herself, she moaned against his mouth, the word “fuck” slipping out in a breathless whisper. The sensation made her pulse quicken, turning her on in a way she hadn’t expected. 

On the other hand, Yujin’s mind spinning as he realized what he was doing. Shit, my hand is rubbing her crotch... and she’s letting me. He could hardly believe it — this was uncharted territory for them. God, this is a breakthrough, he thought, feeling the heat of her body through the fabric of her joggers. His heart raced, his mind struggling to keep up with what was happening, but he knew this was a huge step for both of them. 

We’ve been together for three months now, he reminded himself, trying to justify the moment. It wasn’t rushed; it felt natural, and Wonyoung’s reaction only encouraged him to keep going. He could feel her getting more and more turned on, and the fact that she was allowing this — craving it, even — made him feel like they were crossing into something new, something deeper. 

Wonyoung, feeling the heat between them grow more intense, decided to be bold. Her hand slid down to Yujin’s crotch, and when she felt the hard length of him straining against his shorts, her fingers jolted slightly in surprise. Yujin groaned into her mouth, the sound sending shivers down her spine. He immediately moved his lips down to her neck, planting heated kisses along her skin, making her gasp softly. 

Her body shifted instinctively, turning further to face him, wanting to feel more of him against her. Yujin’s hand that had been resting on her back now moved up, grabbing and squeezing her breast through her tracksuit top, his touch urgent and rough. The sensation made her breath hitch, her heart pounding in her chest as his hands roamed over her body. 

Yujin, his other hand still rubbing fast her pussy over her pants, felt her legs spread wider, giving him more access. His fingers pressed harder against her, and the friction of the fabric combined with the heat of the moment made Wonyoung’s mind blur. The tension between them was electric, her pulse racing as Yujin's hands worked on her, the pleasure building faster than she expected. Both of them were lost in the moment, their breathing heavy and ragged, their bodies completely in sync as they gave in to their desire. 

As Yujin's hand continued to press deeper against Wonyoung's core, her body responded, tensing with the intensity of the moment. His other hand slipped under her shirt, fingers grazing her skin as he moved upward toward her bra. But just then, Wonyoung's phone buzzed against her leg. She grabbed it with one hand, still rubbing Yujin’s crotch with the other. Glancing at the screen, she saw Giselle's name flash. 

"It's Giselle," Wonyoung whispered, breathless. "The game's almost done... They're looking for us." 

Yujin didn’t seem to care, his hand sliding up to cup her breast, fingers pinching teasingly where her nipple would be. Wonyoung gasped softly at the sensation, biting her lip to keep quiet. Her heart raced, torn between wanting to stay like this and knowing they had to go. 

"They might think we're trapped in here," Wonyoung whispered, trying to hold back a laugh. 

That’s when Yujin finally paused, leaning his head back against the wall with a soft thud. He let out a small groan, eyes half-lidded with frustration. Wonyoung chuckled, gently caressing the back of his head where he’d bumped it. “We’ll have plenty of next times.” 

Yujin smiled, still catching his breath, and asked playfully, “Promise?” 

“Promise,” Wonyoung replied with a grin. “But we should go claim our prizes now." 

Yujin sighed dramatically but nodded, standing up as she did. "You're enough of a prize for me,” he teased, making Wonyoung blush slightly. 

"I know," she said, a playful smirk on her lips, "but this isn’t the place for that." 

With that, they sneaked out of the locker room, rejoining the game and soon meeting up with Liz and Giselle at the final checkpoint. As it turned out, Yujin and Wonyoung won a voucher for a samgyupsal restaurant, while Liz and Giselle earned vouchers from the school’s café. 

Giselle looked between them, noticing their flushed faces. "Did you two get trapped somewhere or something?" 

Wonyoung and Yujin exchanged a quick glance, sharing a secret smile. "Something like that," Wonyoung replied, feeling her heart flutter at the thought of what their next "trap" might hold. 

***

The soft afternoon sunlight filtered through the windows of Yujin's apartment, as they cuddled on the couch. Wonyoung was straddling Yujin’s lap, her hands resting confidently on his chest as they kissed, a slow and familiar rhythm between them. They had grown used to this kind of intimacy, where touches lingered and kisses deepened, the boundaries slowly expanding. 

Yujin's hands wandered over her body, tracing the lines of her shirt and down to the waistband of her pants, feeling the curve of her hips under his palms. Wonyoung, growing bolder, reciprocated his touches, her hands skimming over his torso as she explored him with equal confidence. Yujin felt a rush of adrenaline with every press of her body against his, the intensity building as their kisses grew hotter. 

His hands slipped from her waist down to her ass, kneading gently, and Wonyoung let out a soft moan against his lips, sending a jolt of desire through him. Her breath hitched, and Yujin listened intently, attuned to every subtle response from her — the way her body arched closer, how her grip tightened on his shoulders. 

Spurred on by her reactions, Yujin began to gently rock her hips against his, testing the waters, wanting to see just how far he could take things without crossing any lines. With each movement, their bodies pressed closer together, and Wonyoung’s breathing quickened as her hips instinctively followed his rhythm, the friction between them electrifying. 

Wonyoung’s lips parted slightly as she gasped into his mouth, her hands clutching the back of his neck for support as their grinding became more deliberate. Yujin's heart pounded in his chest, the heat between them undeniable. Every small moan she let slip sent a thrill through him, his own restraint slipping with each roll of her hips against him. 

They were humping against each other now, the tension mounting with every movement. Yujin could feel himself hardening beneath her, the thin fabric of their clothes doing little to suppress the intensity of their need. Wonyoung's body pressed tighter against his, her moans growing slightly louder as she became more lost in the moment. 

Yujin’s mind raced — he knew they were both on the edge, testing boundaries, and the thought excited him. He wanted to keep pushing, to see how far they could go, but he also knew he has to be careful. 

Wonyoung, eyes half-lidded with desire, pulled back for a breath, resting her forehead against his. Both of them were breathing heavily, the weight of their shared desire hanging in the air. She couldn't believe what she was doing. Straddling Yujin’s lap, her body pressed so close to his, she felt the heat radiating between them. She wasn’t even thinking anymore — her body was moving on its own. With each slow grind of her hips, she rubbed herself against Yujin’s,  the friction making her gasp softly. 

Yujin sat frozen beneath Wonyoung, his heart racing as he watched her move. The sight of her grinding against him, her face flushed with desire, sent a surge of heat through him. His hands gripped her hips tightly, trying to control himself, but the way she pressed herself against his thigh, her soft gasps filling the air, drove him wild. 

Seeing her like this — so unrestrained, so vulnerable — made Yujin’s mind spin. The friction of her body against his only made him imagine what it would be like without the barrier of clothes. If this felt so good, how would it feel if there were nothing between them? His heart pounded in his chest, and he swallowed hard, trying to control the rising desire. 

The feeling of his hands resting lightly on her waist sent tingles through her skin, encouraging her to keep going. She felt an unfamiliar yet intoxicating warmth building low in her belly, an ache that she couldn't ignore. The more she moved, the more the sensation intensified, like her body was craving something, something she didn’t quite understand but couldn’t stop chasing. Her breath quickened, her movements becoming more desperate as she pressed herself harder against him. 

Wonyoung's mind was a whirl of confusion and desire. She couldn't believe she was grinding herself like this, but it felt so good, too good to stop. With each movement, that strange pressure deep inside her grew, like a knot tightening, and she knew it was close to unraveling, though she didn’t know what exactly was happening. She just knew that her body was begging for more. 

Then, all of a sudden, it hit her. A wave of intense pleasure rolled through her, catching her completely off guard. Her body tensed, her hips stilling for a moment before a shudder ran through her. Her breath hitched, and she let out a soft moan, feeling something release deep inside, her lower body quivering. It was like nothing she’d ever felt before — so good, but confusing at the same time. 

Her cheeks burned as she came down from the high, the heat still lingering in her lower belly, but she couldn't quite make sense of what had just happened. All she knew was that it felt amazing, something she had never experienced before, but at the same time, it left her breathless and dazed. She glanced at Yujin, wondering if he had any idea, her heart still racing as she tried to process the rush of pleasure that had just taken over her body. 

As Wonyoung pulled back slightly from their heated kiss, the grinding between them slowing, her fingers lightly traced the edge of Yujin’s jaw. She looked at him differently now — her gaze intense, filled with a want that was unmistakable. Then, out of nowhere, she bit her lower lip and smiled, that teasing glint in her eyes. 

As Wonyoung reached her release, he felt her body tense, her breath catching in her throat, and he could tell by the way she shuddered against him that she had just experienced something intense. His own body reacted immediately — he was already getting hard, the tightness in his pants unbearable now. The thought of being inside her crossed his mind, and it only made the ache worse. If they could do this, humping and grinding like that, then... maybe they could take it further, right? Maybe they could have sex now.

"I was thinking... maybe you want to come to my course’s party tonight after all?"

Yujin’s heart skipped a beat at the unexpected invitation. Still caught in the moment, trying to process everything. It surprised him. Wonyoung wasn’t even planning on inviting him. But now, things between them were going so well, and her sudden change of heart felt like a step forward. Her words lingered in the air, making him wonder what had shifted. He blinked, still processing. "You want me to go?" 

Her question threw him off, but the need in his body was still there — hard, aching, begging for release. He wanted to finish too, to feel that same rush she had just experienced, but he was too shy to say anything. He didn’t want to seem demanding or selfish. Yujin bit his lip, looking down at her, feeling his face heat up in embarrassment. 

Wonyoung nodded, a little smile playing on her lips. "Yeah, it’ll be fun with you there. If you’re free tonight." 

For a brief moment, Yujin paused, caught between the excitement of her invitation and the plans he had already made. He was already set to attend his own course’s event, something that had been locked in for a while since she didn’t want him to come to hers before. His mind spun, thinking about how perfect it would be to spend the night with her instead. But he knew he couldn’t back out of his previous commitment so last minute. 

"I’d love to... but I already made plans to go to my course party tonight," he admitted, his voice gentle. To soften the blow, he leaned in and pressed a soft kiss to her neck. 

Wonyoung’s smile faltered slightly, just for a moment, and Yujin could tell she hadn’t expected him to say no. "Oh... okay," she replied, though there was a hint of disappointment she couldn’t quite hide. 

She shifted a little in his lap, playing it off, though Yujin could see the change in her expression. It tugged at him, but he knew he couldn't let it weigh on him too much. She understood, but he also knew she wanted them to share this night together. 

Wonyoung tried to brush it off with a smile, saying, "Have fun at your party then. Just... don’t drink a lot, okay?" 

Yujin could see through her attempt to stay upbeat, and he wanted to make things right. He kissed her softly, trying to bring back that warmth between them. "How about this?" he murmured against her lips. "Maybe we meet up after both of our parties? We can continue partying privately." 

Wonyoung’s smile returned, her eyes lighting up again at the suggestion. "I like that," she said softly, her hand gently caressing his cheek. "Yeah, we can do that." 

Yujin grinned, relieved that her mood had lifted. "Perfect. We’ll have our own after-party." 

Chapter Text

Yujin and Yuna strolled through the mall. Yuna was in her element, leading the way to her favorite stores with a confident stride, while Yujin trailed behind, amused by how invested she was in helping him with his outfit for the night. 

“Alright, oppa,” Yuna said, stopping in front of a Korean beauty store. “Before we pick out your clothes, let’s get some essentials.” 

“Essentials?” 

Yuna nodded as she pulled him into the brightly lit shop. The store was filled with shelves lined with colorful skincare products, all promising perfect, glowing skin. Yuna grabbed a few face masks, casually throwing them into her basket, and then picked one up, handing it to Yujin. 

“Here, use this tonight before the party.” 

He looked at the mask skeptically. “I don’t really use this stuff.” 

Yuna rolled her eyes and nudged him. “Trust me. Use it after your bath tonight. It’ll make your face glow, and you’ll look even more handsome.” 

Yujin smirked at her enthusiasm, still unsure. “Really?” 

Yuna grinned, leaning in like she was about to reveal a secret. “It’ll make you irresistible. You want to stand out tonight, right?” 

That was all it took. Yujin nodded, already convinced by her playful sales talk. “Okay, fine. I’ll use it.” 

With that victory under her belt, Yuna dragged Yujin to the next store — this time, a high-end men’s fashion boutique. As soon as they stepped in, her eyes gleamed with excitement, already scanning the racks of clothes. 

“Alright, Yujin, let’s find you something that’ll make you look wow tonight,” she said, dragging him over to the fitting area. 

Yuna was like a whirlwind, pulling clothes off the racks and holding them up against Yujin, occasionally squeezing his arms and nodding in approval. “You’ve gained a bit of muscle, huh? Perfect, this’ll look great on you.” 

After much deliberation, Yuna settled on a white polo shirt, a white suit jacket, jeans, and white rubber shoes. She laid the outfit over her arm, beaming with satisfaction. 

“Wait... that’s it?” Yujin asked, looking at the simple, outfit. 

Yuna nodded, pleased with her selection. “Yep, simple but smart casual. It’s perfect for a semi-formal event. The white will make you stand out tonight. Trust me, you’ll look amazing.” 

Before Yujin could protest, Yuna shoved him into the dressing room. “Go try it on!” 

A few minutes later, Yujin stepped out of the dressing room in his new outfit. Yuna’s face lit up as soon as she saw him, clapping her hands in approval. 

“Wow! Perfect!” she exclaimed. “You’re definitely going to turn heads tonight.” 

Yujin laughed, feeling a bit awkward under her enthusiastic praise. “You think so?” 

Yuna grinned, adjusting his jacket slightly. “I know so. You’re ready for tonight.” She stepped back, giving him one last look over. 

After Yujin finished trying on his outfit, Yuna wasn’t quite done yet. She started grabbing more clothes off the racks, picking out casual pieces for him — a couple of simple shirts, polo shirts, and a few pairs of jeans that were easy to mix and match. Yujin just let her do her thing, trusting her judgment and appreciating the help. 

“Here,” Yuna said, adding a few more items to their growing pile of shopping bags. “Now you’ll have stuff that you can wear casually, and they’ll still look good. Easy to pair with anything.” 

Yujin nodded. “Thanks, Yuna. I seriously don’t know what I’d do without you.” 

She smirked, clearly enjoying playing fashion consultant for the day. “Well, now it’s my turn. Let’s get me that dress you promised.” 

They headed toward a boutique specializing in women’s evening wear. As Yuna browsed through the dresses, she kept asking Yujin’s opinion. But every time she held up a dress, Yujin would give the same response. 

“That dress is pretty. It’ll look good on Wonyoung.” 

Yuna sighed, holding up another dress. “What about this one?” 

“Yeah, that’s nice. Wonyoung looks pretty in pink.” 

Yuna paused, her eye twitching slightly before she grunted in frustration. “Yujin! You’re supposed to imagine me in these dresses, not your girlfriend!”

Yujin huffed, running a hand through his hair. “Sorry, I’m just... not good at this stuff. That’s why I asked you to help me shop in the first place.” 

Yuna sighed heavily, rolling her eyes dramatically. “Ugh, you’re impossible.” 

As she held up another dress, a saleslady came over, eyeing Yuna with a smile. “That dress is really cute on you,” she said, then glanced at Yujin. “And your boyfriend seems to like it too.” 

Both Yuna and Yujin immediately shook their heads, speaking in unison. “We’re not dating!” 

“We’re just friends,” Yuna added, crossing her arms. 

The saleslady raised her hands in apology. “Oh, sorry about that! You two just have such cute chemistry together, I thought...” 

Yuna waved it off with an exasperated sigh, while Yujin scratched the back of his head, chuckling awkwardly. “Yeah, no... definitely just friends.” 

The saleslady nodded, backing away with a sheepish smile, leaving Yuna rolling her eyes at the whole exchange. “See? This is what happens when you bring a guy shopping,” she muttered. 

Yujin chuckled again, nudging her playfully. “Hey, I’m just here to buy you a dress.” 

Yuna smirked, flipping her hair over her shoulder. “You’re lucky you’re cute.” 

***

After their shopping spree, Yujin and Yuna decided to take a break at a nearby café, their shopping bags piled around their chairs. They sipped on iced coffees and indulged in some desserts, enjoying the cozy atmosphere. 

Yuna took a bite of her cake and then glanced at Yujin with a curious expression. “So, how are you and Wonyoung these days?” 

“We’re good. Since we had that talk, we’ve been more honest with each other. She’s sweeter now, and she’s been making efforts, like packing my lunch almost every day.” 

Yuna raised her eyebrows, impressed. “Wow, what a turnaround.” 

“Yeah,” Yujin nodded, his smile widening. 

She leaned forward, teasing him. “So, what was it about Wonyoung that made you chase after her, even when she wasn’t into you at first?” 

Yujin paused for a moment, thinking. “I don’t know... I was just drawn to her from the beginning. She’s beautiful, and I was so curious about her. I wanted to get to know her, really get to know her. I wanted to know everything. And isn’t that the whole point of courtship? You’re trying to convince someone to give you a chance, and I’m lucky she gave me that chance.” 

Yuna smirked, tilting her head. “So, she rejected you at first?” 

Yujin laughed, shaking his head. “Kinda. But I kept at it.” 

“Wow, persistent, huh?” Yuna teased, stirring her iced coffee. 

“Yeah, my persistence worked,” Yujin said with a grin. “Eventually, she liked me back.” 

Yuna’s expression softened as she looked at him. “Do you love her now?” 

Yujin paused, his smile turning thoughtful. “Yeah, I do. But... I’m not sure when to tell her yet. I guess I’m waiting for the right moment.” 

Yuna leaned back in her chair, eyeing him curiously. “So, why are you changing yourself for her? Doesn’t that mean she likes an idea of you only?”

Yujin considered her question, then replied, “I get why it might seem like I’m changing for her, but really, all the things she wants me to change are things I’ve needed to do for a while, even if she wasn’t around. Like, I’m studying business, but I don’t even look like I’m in college half the time. I’m lazy, and I haven’t been focusing on my studies enough. I need to stop failing classes.” He paused, running a hand through his hair before continuing, “I guess Wonyoung’s just been that push I needed to finally get my act together. She’s my inspiration to change my life for the better.” 

Yuna smiled, nodding in understanding. “I get it. She’s the wake-up call you needed.” 

“Exactly,” Yujin said, smiling gratefully at her. “I mean, it’s not just for her... I needed to grow up at some point. But having her around gave me a reason to start now.” 

Yuna took a sip of her coffee and then looked at him with a playful smile. “Well, don’t change too much. Don’t ever lose your true self.” 

Yujin chuckled, giving her a light-hearted nudge. “Don’t worry, I’m still me.” 

"So... everything you’ve heard from Wonyoung and her friends back then, all that stuff — is that all forgotten now?" 

Yujin nodded without hesitation, a calm smile on his face. "Yeah. I’m not the type to hold grudges. If something’s done, it’s done. Plus, I didn’t even hear the full story. I just assumed things." 

Yuna raised her eyebrows, impressed by how easily he let things go. "You’re really nice, you know that?" 

He just laughed lightly.

Yuna shook her head and smiled. "No, you’re just... a good guy. I can see why Wonyoung finally gave you a chance." 

Yujin shrugged modestly. "Thanks, but I just don’t want to dwell too much in the negativity. I just want to be happy all the time." 

Yuna smiled at his words, clearly thinking about something, but she didn’t push further. Instead, she picked up her fork, pointing it at the last piece of dessert. “Okay, enough with the deep talk — last piece is mine!” 

***

At Wonyoung’s party, the energy had gradually fizzled out. After spending a couple of hours chatting and trying to mingle, Wonyoung, Liz, and Giselle found themselves sitting together, sipping their drinks with a shared sense of boredom. The music was still playing, but the excitement they had felt at the start of the evening had long faded. It had its moments, but now it just felt like they were here out of obligation — for formality and attendance purposes.

Liz sighed and glanced at Wonyoung. "Are you guys ready to call it a night?" she asked, swirling the last bit of her drink. 

"Honestly, yeah," Wonyoung replied with a chuckle, checking her phone. "This party is dragging." 

Giselle nodded in agreement. "It’s kind of dead now." 

Wonyoung texted Yujin, typing quickly. "Hey, I kind of want to leave soon. How are you doing? Are you done soon?" she sent, hoping he was free. 

She hit send, then slid her phone back into her pocket, trying to stay engaged in the conversations around her. It wasn’t long before her phone buzzed with a reply from Yujin. 

"It was fun, should I come pick you up now?" 

Wonyoung smiled softly, feeling a sense of relief wash over her. “Yes please.”, she responded quickly. 

Almost immediately, Yujin sent back, "On my way. Wait for me." 

She knew Yujin was having fun at his own party, but it was comforting to know he would come to get her. She glanced at Liz and Giselle. 

***

As Wonyoung, Giselle, and Liz made their way out of the party, chatting casually about how dull the event had been, they suddenly froze in place, jaws dropping in unison. Right in front of them stood Yujin, looking completely different from the carefree, laid-back guy they were used to seeing. He held a bouquet in one hand, but what truly stunned them was how polished and striking he looked. He looked effortlessly stylish, expensive even. 

Wonyoung’s heart skipped a beat. She wasn’t the only one affected — Giselle and Liz were wide-eyed too, while several other girls leaving the building or passing by couldn’t help but take second glances, some even blushing as they hurried past. Yujin, however, seemed completely oblivious to all the attention. His gaze was solely on Wonyoung, and the moment he spotted her, a bright smile spread across his face as he walked toward her. 

She stood there, dumbfounded, her pulse quickening. She had never seen Yujin like this — so handsome, so put-together, so undeniably attractive. Her mind raced as she tried to reconcile the boyish Yujin with the sharp, charming guy standing in front of her now. He looked like someone straight out of a magazine, and for a second, she almost didn’t recognize him. 

Yujin, completely casual, grabbed Wonyoung’s hand with that familiar warmth and asked, "Should we go?" 

Giselle and Liz exchanged a look before Liz said, still clearly shocked, "Wow, Yujin… you look really good right now." Giselle chimed in, nodding in agreement, "Yeah, seriously. You clean up really well." 

Yujin, still oblivious to how much of an impact his appearance was making, laughed awkwardly and thanked them, then turned back to Wonyoung. "Are you hungry?"

Wonyoung, still trying to shake off her surprise, nodded. "Yeah, I am." 

Liz, now smirking as if she knew something Wonyoung wasn’t ready to admit, gave her a playful nudge. "Have fun, you two," she teased, her eyes sparkling with mischief as she had a pretty good idea Wonyoung wasn’t going back to the dorm tonight. 

“Wonyoung,” he said, his voice soft but confident. “I, uh, got you these.” He held out the bouquet, a mix of soft pink roses and white lilies.

Wonyoung’s eyes softened, and she took the flowers from him with a smile. “These are beautiful, Yujin,” she said, her tone warm, though there was a hint of confusion in her voice. “But… what is it for?”

Yujin grinned, his hands slightly trembling with excitement. “Just want to celebrate tonight. I have a reservation at a nice restaurant to celebrate.” His gaze softened as he watched her reactions.

Her cheeks flushed at his words, and she looked up at him, her smile softening. “That’s sweet of you, Yujin.” She paused, inhaling the fragrance of the flowers before looking back at him. “Thank you.” 

***

Yujin had it all planned out, down to the last detail. As Wonyoung stepped into the elegant restaurant, she couldn't help but marvel at how much thought he had put into this evening. It wasn’t the kind of place they usually went to — this was upscale, sophisticated, and even a little romantic.  He looked completely in place here. She could hardly believe how different he looked — so mature, so composed. Yuna had been right. Seeing him like this was a shock, but in a good way.  As they entered, the hostess greeted them and guided them to a private table near the window.

As they sat down at their reserved table, Wonyoung couldn't help but glance at him, wondering how Yujin had pulled this off. She felt like she was seeing him in a new light, more like a man, more thoughtful. He had prepared for this, and it was working. She couldn't stop the tiny smile from curling on her lips as she took it all in. 

Yujin chuckled, looking pleased with himself as the waiter brought over their menus. They spent the next few moments browsing, the atmosphere relaxed but tinged with something a little more... grown-up. The conversation flowed easily, from their usual playful teasing to more serious topics. They talked about their upcoming final exams, how next month would be filled with studying, and the fact that Christmas break was just around the corner. 

As they talked, Wonyoung could sense a quiet thoughtfulness in Yujin. He seemed aware of the fact that their time together might become more limited soon, especially with finals looming. Wonyoung, being the dedicated student she was, would be buried in her books, likely spending less time with him. He knew that, and it seemed to weigh on him a little. 

"Exams are going to be intense," Yujin said, leaning back slightly in his chair. "Especially for you, you’re always so focused. I guess I won’t be seeing you as much since you’ll be glued to your textbooks." 

Wonyoung smiled softly, knowing it was true. "Yeah, I’ll be pretty busy. But I’ll make time for you," she reassured him. "Though, we might see each other less... at least not until the exams are over." 

Yujin nodded, he stopped for a moment before he spoke again, with a hint of suggestion. "So... since we’re both going to be super busy soon... do you want to come over to my dorm tonight?" 

Wonyoung felt her heart skip a beat, fully aware of the time and what he might be implying. She glanced at him, trying to gauge his seriousness, but of course, Yujin was relaxed but she can see his fingers are trembling. She couldn't help but tease him a little, leaning forward with a playful smirk. 

"Are you trying to get me to sleep at your place tonight, Yujin?" 

His eyes widened slightly at her teasing, but he quickly composed himself and grinned back. "Only if you want to.”

Wonyoung bit her lip, the teasing mood fading as she thought about it seriously. The idea of staying over at his apartment, with the unspoken possibilities hanging in the air, made her feel a bit nervous but also intrigued. She had never stayed the night at his place before alone, but tonight felt different — Yujin felt different. There was something undeniably different about him, and for the first time, she was seeing him as someone she could trust to handle the situation with care, no matter what happens.

“We’ll see after dinner,” she finally replied with a smile, leaving the option open, and Yujin, ever the easygoing guy, just nodded and smiled back, content to let her decide when she was ready. 

***

Inside the apartment, Yujin had a small, pleased smile as he slipped off his shoes and presented Wonyoung with a pair of pink cherry slippers. "Here," he said, holding them out to her with a playful grin. "I bought these earlier too." 

Wonyoung smiled brightly, her eyes lighting up at the sight of the cute slippers. "Ooh, I have slippers here now?" she teased, slipping them on. "Of course you’d get me something like this." 

Yujin chuckled, watching her get comfortable. “Of course,” he said. "Gotta make sure you're always cozy when you're here." 

***

Wonyoung lay on his bed, her head resting comfortably on the pillow, arms spread out across the soft sheets. She stretched out, sighing in contentment. 

“Your bed is way more comfortable than mine in the dorm.” 

“Feel free to sleep here then,” Yujin replied casually. “It’s always free for you.” 

Wonyoung smirked and raised an eyebrow. “You really want me to spend the night here, huh?” 

“I wouldn’t mind if you did.” 

Wonyoung chuckled and propped herself up on her elbows, giving him a playful look. “You’re always so laid-back.” 

“Anyway, I’ve been working on something. I entered this songwriting contest, and I’ve been using my free time to write and work on the lyrics.” 

Wonyoung turned to face him. “A contest? Don’t you think you should focus more on your business course, Yujin? The finals are near.” 

Yujin's grin faltered for a second as he thought about it. “I’m not prioritizing it, I promise. I finish my readings and homework first, but this... it’s something I really want to try, you know?” 

She crossed her arms and raised an eyebrow, unimpressed. “That’s nice, but don’t forget why you’re in college. Your course is more important right now.” 

He winced slightly, but he smiled back at her, understanding where she was coming from. “Yeah, yeah. I know. But I’ll figure it out. I can do both, right?” 

Wonyoung sighed, shaking her head, clearly not as convinced. “Just don’t end up getting too distracted with it. You still need to pass your classes. Keep your priorities straight.” 

She didn’t argue any further, she sat up from the bed, stretching her arms above her head. She rummaged through her bag and pulled out a crumpled tissue. Without thinking much about it, she tossed it into Yujin’s trashbin by his desk. “Your trash is getting full,” she teased lightly, sitting back down beside him. 

Yujin leaned down slightly. “I will throw it tomorrow. So, since today is a special day, do you want to sleep here tonight?” 

Wonyoung froze for a split second, her heart skipping a beat. She hadn’t expected him to say that, and a thousand thoughts raced through her mind. She hadn’t told Yujin that she was a virgin. It wasn’t something she hid deliberately, but it also wasn’t something she knew how to bring up. And, more than that, Yujin was so shy himself — what if knowing that made him even more awkward around her? Unsure of how to navigate this, she quickly decided to turn it into a joke, hoping to defuse the moment. 

She shot him a smirk and teased back, “Oh? You just want to sleep with me.” 

Yujin’s face flushed red almost immediately, just as she expected, but then something surprising happened. Instead of stammering or getting embarrassed like he usually did, he managed to recover quickly, his eyes locking onto hers. He leaned in closer, his voice low. “Yeah... I do want to sleep with you.” 

Now it was Wonyoung’s turn to get flustered. Her face grew warm, and she could feel her heart beating faster. His words hung in the air, and she suddenly found herself thinking deeply, trying to figure out what he actually meant. Did he just mean casually lying down next to each other, like they had during naps before? Or... did he mean something else? Was he hinting at wanting to take things further, exploring each other, maybe even... having sex? 

Her mind swirled with questions. She didn’t know if she was ready for that. She didn’t know if he was even thinking about that. And the uncertainty was making her both anxious and excited. Could Yujin, the same boy who blushed when she so much as kissed his cheek in public, really be implying something more intimate? But then again, he wasn’t like that — he was always so respectful and careful with her. 

She looked at him, trying to gauge the meaning behind his words, but Yujin simply smiled softly at her, his usual warmth returning. He didn’t seem like he was pressuring her at all, just... being honest. She bit her lip, not knowing what to say, her mind caught between teasing him more or asking him directly what he meant. 

For now, she decided to play it cool. "Well... good luck convincing me," she replied with a raised eyebrow, trying to maintain her composure despite the flutter of nerves in her chest. But deep down, she knew this was a conversation they would need to have soon. 

Yujin’s eyes darkened with a new intensity she hadn’t seen before. He leaned forward, moving over her, his body hovering just above hers, and suddenly the atmosphere shifted. His lips captured hers in a deep, passionate kiss, his tongue moving against hers with a soft moan that sent shivers down her spine. His hands, warm and slightly trembling with excitement, found their way to her waist, slowly exploring her body as his fingertips slipped under the sleeve of her blouse, grazing her skin. 

Wonyoung’s breath hitched as Yujin’s hand trailed down to her skirt, caressing her inner thighs with a boldness that caught her off guard. He’d never been this forward this fast, and it both thrilled and surprised her. His lips left hers, traveling down to her neck, pressing slow, lingering kisses there before moving to her collarbone and then to the exposed skin at the top of her chest. She felt a flutter in her stomach, a mix of arousal and confusion as her body reacted to his touch. 

Yujin, in his own world, took her earlier teasing as a green light. This is okay, right? he thought, his mind racing. They had talked about this before, and Wonyoung had always been clear — she would stop him if she was uncomfortable. And right now, she wasn’t stopping him. He felt the need to show her how much he wanted her, how much he wanted to be with her completely, not just in small gestures but in a way that left no doubt. 

She hasn’t said no, he reasoned as his lips moved lower, exploring every inch of her skin he could reach. She knows she can stop me, but she’s letting me go on... 

His heart pounded in his chest, the excitement growing as his hands continued to roam over her body, his fingers grazing the soft skin of her thighs. Yujin’s thoughts were all over the place — he wanted to take this further, but he also didn’t want to rush her. But maybe she wants this too? he questioned silently, trying to read her reactions. All he knew was that, right now, he was driven by the overwhelming desire to be closer to her, to feel more of her. 

Wonyoung’s body responded, but her mind was still spinning. She hadn’t expected Yujin to be so bold, and while part of her liked the passion he was showing, she couldn’t ignore the thoughts creeping into her head, her heart racing as his lips continued to press against her skin. There was a warmth growing between them, a tension that neither of them had ever reached before. 

But as Yujin’s hands moved more daringly, Wonyoung felt a sudden wave of uncertainty. She liked Yujin, and there’s already some love in there, but this...this was fast, faster than she had imagined things going tonight. Her hand instinctively reached up, gently touching his arm, as if to anchor herself back to reality, back to the moment where she needed to decide how far she wanted to go. But then, Yujin’s hands slipped under her blouse, lifting them up along with her bra, revealing Wonyoung’s breasts for the first time, both of them felt the shift in the air — an electric current of intensity neither of them had ever experienced. Wonyoung gasped as his warm hands gently caressed her soft skin, her nipples hardening under his touch, betraying just how turned on she was. The sensation of his large hands squeezing her breasts sent shivers down her spine, and she couldn’t hold back a groan that escaped her lips. 

Yujin’s breath hitched at the sight of her body responding to him. He couldn’t believe what was happening — he had never gone this far with her before, and now, here he was, feeling her like this. She was so beautiful, so vulnerable in this moment, and the realization that she wanted this too made his heart race even faster. 

"You’re so beautiful, Wonyoung," Yujin murmured, his voice thick with desire. He lowered his head slowly, eyes locked on hers as he leaned in and flicked his tongue over her nipple. He wanted her to see what he was doing, to know how much he wanted her, and when her eyes met his, there was no denying the heat between them. His tongue moved over her sensitive skin, circling, teasing, before he gently sucked, making her gasp in response. 

As Yujin’s mouth made contact with Wonyoung’s bare skin, an intense warmth spread through her body, igniting a sensation she had never felt before. The moment his lips closed around her nipple, she felt her breath hitch in her throat, her body tensing in response to the new, electrifying feeling. It was like she was paralyzed, every nerve ending hyper-aware of Yujin's mouth on her breast.

She was overwhelmed by the sensation — her mind a whirlwind of thoughts, but her body responding instinctively. She was surprised at how far he was going, at how bold he had become in this moment, but the warmth of his mouth on her skin made it impossible to think clearly. All she could focus on was how good it felt, especially when he moved to her other breast, giving it the same attention, sucking and licking her sensitive nipples while his hands continued to caress her gently.

Her heart pounded in her chest, torn between the pleasure she felt and the realization that this was a side of Yujin she hadn’t seen before. He had always been shy and sweet, but now he was showing her just how much he wanted her, pushing boundaries. And yet, as much as she was caught up in the moment, Wonyoung couldn’t help but feel the weight of where things were heading.

Yujin’s hand moved to her other breast, his fingers squeezing and massaging with just the right amount of pressure. The sensation of his hands and mouth working together was intoxicating, pulling her deeper into a haze of pleasure. He’s making me feel so... good... she thought, biting her lip to keep from moaning too loudly. The intimacy of it all felt surreal. I didn’t know... it would feel this intense... 

But for now, the sensation was too good to stop. Yujin's mouth and hands, warm and careful yet full of passion, were making her melt under his touch.

As Yujin's lips continued to suck on Wonyoung's nipples, his mouth moving from one breast to the other, Wonyoung's soft moans filled the room, her body reacting to every touch. Her legs shifted beneath him, subtly rubbing together in response to the heat building between them. Yujin noticed this, his eyes darkening with desire as he moved one of his hands back to her inner thighs, caressing the soft skin just above her knees before slowly trailing higher. 

The closer his hand got to her core, the more Wonyoung's breath hitched, and when his fingers grazed her underwear, the dampness he felt sent a surge of arousal through him. He groaned at the realization of how turned on she was, and the sound echoed with her own breathless moan as their eyes met briefly. Wonyoung's hips shifted again, instinctively pressing toward his touch, silently asking for more. 

Yujin continued sucking on her breasts, his tongue swirling around her nipples, while his fingers gently teased her through the fabric of her underwear. Wonyoung’s legs trembled slightly, her hips moving in time with his touches, wanting more of the sensation. The heat between them was overwhelming, and Yujin felt lost in the moment, eager to please her, to show her how much he wanted this, wanted her. 

Seeing how she responded, how her hips and legs moved in rhythm with him, Yujin slid his hand inside her underwear, feeling her for the first time. His fingers gently explored her wet pussy lips, the warmth of her sending a new wave of desire through him. Wonyoung moaned louder, her eyes closing as the pleasure washed over her, one hand biting down on her finger to stifle her sounds while the other hand reached for Yujin’s head, pulling him closer to her chest, silently urging him to keep going. She couldn’t believe how intimate this moment felt — his fingers moving in a way that made her feel more connected to him than ever. It felt so personal, so vulnerable, and yet so incredibly good.

The moment felt intense, intimate, as Yujin caressed her sensitive core, his fingers gliding through her wetness, his finger circling gently around her most sensitive spot. Wonyoung’s hips moved in time with his hand, and her soft moans were accompanied by the subtle sounds of her breath quickening. Her body trembled under his touch, and as he sucked on her breasts and continued to pleasure her, Yujin could feel the tension building between them, something far deeper and more intimate than anything they had shared before. 

Wonyoung’s mind raced with a whirlwind of thoughts, her thoughts swirling amidst the rising pleasure. This was bound to happen sooner or later, she thought, her breaths coming quicker. After all, Yujin was her boyfriend — someone who was always kind and sweet to her, patient in ways that no one else had ever been. But now, lying beneath him, feeling his hand between her legs, everything felt different. 

Gone was the innocent, carefree boy who often made her laugh with his silly jokes and shy, affectionate gestures. In his place was someone more confident, someone who knew what he was doing, touching her body in ways that made her feel things she never had before — things a man should make her feel. As Yujin’s fingers circled her clit, Wonyoung’s body responded instinctively, the pleasure building, tightening inside her. 

Yujin’s lips returned to hers, capturing her mouth in a passionate kiss. The heat between them was intense, and every now and then, soft moans escaped her, muffled by his lips. She felt like she was floating, her entire body humming with sensation as Yujin’s fingers worked faster, his touch driving her closer and closer to the edge. 

Wonyoung could feel it building inside her, the warmth spreading through her, each circle of his fingers sending sparks of pleasure radiating from her core. Yujin, sensing her tension, knowing she was close, sped up his movements, rubbing her faster with a newfound determination. 

Her moans grew louder, her body trembling, and before she could even process it, a wave of intense pleasure washed over her. Her hips bucked against his hand, her back arched slightly as she came, her orgasm hitting her hard, pulsing through her body as she clenched around his fingers. 

Yujin watched her closely, his eyes dark with satisfaction as he felt her release, her body shuddering beneath him. He leaned down to kiss her again, their lips meeting in a deep, lingering kiss as she rode out the last waves of her orgasm, her heart pounding in her chest, completely overwhelmed by the intensity of it all. 

Wonyoung lay there, still trembling as she tried to catch her breath, her mind spinning. Yujin was the first guy to see me like this, she thought, her heart still pounding in her chest. The first guy to touch her like this. And now, Yujin was the first person who had ever made her cum, and it felt like she was in heaven, her whole body buzzing from the intensity of what just happened. She could barely believe it herself — how much she had let him do, how much she had enjoyed it. 

How did we get here? she wondered as her chest rose and fell rapidly. She had been nervous, unsure of how far she wanted to go with Yujin, but now it seemed natural, like this was exactly where they were meant to be. And maybe, deep down, she had wanted this all along. She trust him now, more than anyone, and it felt right. And now, lying in his bed, almost fully exposed, Wonyoung realized she was more comfortable with him than she had ever been with anyone else. 

Meanwhile, Yujin watched her in awe as she recovered from her orgasm, her face still flushed, her chest rising and falling as she caught her breath. She looked absolutely stunning, the soft glow of satisfaction radiating from her. She's so beautiful, he thought, completely mesmerized. There she was, lying on his bed, almost fully naked, and she hadn’t stopped him. She had let him touch her, let him bring her to this place of pleasure, and that meant everything to him. 

She’s finally seeing me as a man, he realized, a wave of pride and excitement swelling in his chest. Yujin had always been unsure if Wonyoung saw him as more than just her sweet, boyish boyfriend, but this — this was new. The way she had responded to him, how she hadn’t pulled away, told him everything. She wanted him just as much as he wanted her. 

His hand, still resting on her waist, slowly traced the edge of her underwear, his fingers lightly brushing her soaking pussy. His breath hitched as he looked down at her, her body still recovering from the afterglow of her orgasm. I want to make her feel even more, he thought, desire stirring deep inside him. He wanted to taste her, to show her just how much he wanted her. Yujin’s hand moved lower, his fingers gently slipping under the fabric of her underwear, teasing the sensitive skin beneath. 

I want to eat her so good, he thought, his mind already consumed with the idea of making Wonyoung moan his name again. 

As Wonyoung felt Yujin's fingers trying to pull her underwear down, her mind snapped back to reality. The warmth, the closeness — it all felt so good, but she knew she wasn’t ready to take that final step, not tonight. Her hand shot up, gently holding his arm, stopping him. 

"I'm a virgin," she said quietly, her voice trembling just a little. 

Yujin’s hand froze immediately. His eyes widened, and the realization hit him like a wave. "Fuck, fuck, fuck," he muttered, panic rising in his chest as he quickly pulled her underwear back up, retreating from her as if he'd done something terribly wrong. He looked so shocked, his hands going to his hair, ruffling it nervously as if trying to make sense of what just happened. 

Oh my god, fuck, what did I do? his thoughts raced. He couldn’t believe how far he had gone. Was this too much? Did he push her into something she wasn’t ready for? "I’m sorry, I’m so sorry," Yujin blurted out, his voice laced with regret. He felt like he had crossed a line, and the last thing he wanted was to make Wonyoung uncomfortable or hurt her in any way. 

Wonyoung, still catching her breath, sat up slowly and adjusted her bra, watching him as he looked utterly disoriented. She smiled softly, pulling him closer and cupping his face in her hands. "What are you sorry for? For making me orgasm?" she teased gently, trying to lighten the mood. Her laughter was soft and reassuring, and it seemed to calm him down just a little. "I liked what we did, Yujin," she said. "But... I'm just not ready to go all the way yet." Her eyes met his, filled with warmth and understanding. She wanted him to know that she wasn’t upset, that she appreciated how careful he had been with her, even though things got intense. 

Yujin stared into her eyes, still processing her words. Relief washed over him as he realized she wasn’t mad or hurt, but it didn’t stop him from feeling guilty for pushing too far. "I... I just—" he started, but Wonyoung silenced him with a soft kiss on his lips, reminding him that everything was okay. 

As Wonyoung kissed him, she pulled away with a playful smile, her eyes gleaming with mischief. "If you don’t calm down, I might change my mind about sleeping here tonight," she teased.

Yujin's eyes widened, and a spark of excitement flickered in them. "You want to sleep here tonight?" he asked, his voice almost incredulous as he tried to process what she just said. The thought of her staying with him for the night, especially after everything that had happened, sent a rush of warmth through his chest. 

Wonyoung smirked, her gaze softening as she looked at him. "Yeah," she replied, the playfulness in her tone still there. "It’s pretty late anyway, and I’m tired of walking back to my dorm." She raised an eyebrow, teasing him one more time. "Only if you’re okay with it, of course." 

Without hesitation, Yujin nodded enthusiastically, a grin spreading across his face. "Of course, I’m okay with it," he said, his voice filled with eagerness. “Sleep here anytime you want. I love it.”

***

Wonyoung stood in front of the bathroom mirror, brushing her teeth with a soft pastel pink toothbrush from Yujin’s random toothbrush stock, the minty foam in her mouth doing little to cool the warmth spreading across her cheeks. Her mind wandered back to what had happened just moments ago with Yujin. The feel of his hands, the way his lips explored her, how effortlessly he had stepped up and taken control — she had been wrong, so wrong, about him.
She paused, staring at her flushed reflection. For so long, she had thought Yujin was just too sweet, too shy to ever go beyond their gentle kisses. But tonight, he'd surprised her, proving that he could step up when the moment called for it. Her heart swelled as she realized how much she had underestimated him. Maybe she didn’t give him enough credit, always underestimating his ability to lead when it mattered. 

As she rinsed her mouth and set down the toothbrush, Wonyoung felt a deeper sense of trust form inside her. She smiled softly to herself. She needed to have more faith in Yujin, in their relationship. He had shown her that it was okay to embrace the unknown, to let go of her doubts. Sure, he was still shy and awkward at times, but that didn’t matter. She could work around it. After all, it was part of his charm — his kindness, his respect, and the care he showed her. 

Her thoughts drifted to that night at Liz’s party, the night Jeong-Do had tried to take advantage of her. Yujin had been the one to save her, stepping in when no one else had. He had been there for her when it counted most. She could trust him, 100 percent. The way Yujin had stopped instantly when she told him she was a virgin. He hadn't pushed or gotten more eager to claim that "first" for his ego, as many guys might. Instead, he had pulled back without hesitation, without her needing to ask. That was just how sweet Yujin was. It was moments like these that reminded her how much she could trust him. 

Tonight had only solidified that. As Wonyoung turned off the light and padded softly back to the bed, her heart was light with the promise of what lay ahead. There was so much more to explore between them, emotionally and physically. And maybe, they'd fall in love even faster now that they were growing so close. 

Returning to his bedroom, she found Yujin lying on the bed, staring up at the ceiling. He looked so deep in thought, but the moment he noticed her, his face lit up with that soft smile she loved so much. “I’ll take a quick bath,” he said, sitting up, looking a little bashful. 

Wonyoung nodded, watching him disappear into the bathroom, then turned toward his dresser. She didn’t have any clothes here, so she decided to borrow one of his shirts. She pulled open the drawer, grabbed a soft, oversized shirt, and slipped out of her blouse, bra and skirt. When she pulled the shirt over her head, it draped over her like a mini dress, the hem brushing her thighs. It felt nice, soft, and carried Yujin's faint scent, which made her feel oddly comforted. 

As she lay down on his bed, pulling the covers over herself, it all felt surreal. Sleeping here with Yujin. It was a big step, and though she wasn’t ready to go all the way, she felt at ease knowing she was with someone who would always respect her boundaries. 

***

Yujin returned from the bathroom as he entered the room, now wearing only his boxers. Wonyoung looked up from the bed and couldn’t help but notice how much he had changed. His body had definitely filled out since the pool. He had always been slim, but now, it was clear he had been serious about hitting the gym. His biceps were more defined, his shoulders broader, and his arms had bulked up slightly — nothing too drastic, but just enough to make him look... well, really good. Liz's old teasing about him being a stick seemed ridiculous now. He was still lean, but he was undeniably improving, and Wonyoung couldn’t stop herself from admiring his new figure. 

As Yujin turned toward the bed, his eyes widened. "Fuck..." he whispered, unable to hold back the word. Wonyoung was lying there in his shirt — her long, smooth legs exposed, the oversized shirt falling just high enough to tease him with glimpses of her thighs. It was clear she wasn't wearing a bra; he could see her discarded bra, blouse, and skirt piled neatly on the bedside table. The realization hit him like a truck — Wonyoung, looking this hot, in his shirt, lying on his bed, waiting for him. 

His pulse quickened, his breath catching in his throat. She looked so gorgeous, so effortlessly sexy, and it was hard to for him to concentrate. Now, here she was, making his bed look like the most tempting place in the world. 

Yujin moved slowly, grabbing a shirt from his dresser as he stepped towards the bed, his mind racing. How the hell am I supposed to sleep when she looks like that? He shook his thoughts away, reminding himself they needed to start being comfortable in situations like this. If they were going to grow closer and explore more physical intimacy, they had to be able to share a bed without all the nervousness.

With a deep breath, he lied down beside Wonyoung, his heart pounding. They both lay down, the space between them shrinking. Yujin kept telling himself to be brave, to not get nervous so easily. He wanted Wonyoung to feel comfortable being this close to him, and he needed to show her that he could handle it, too. 

Wonyoung turned her back to him, pressing slightly against his chest. He hesitated for just a moment, his body tense, but before he could second-guess himself, Yujin wrapped his arms around her waist and gently pulled her closer. His lips brushed against her neck as he kissed her softly. “Goodnight,” he whispered, the warmth of his breath sending a shiver down her spine. 

Wonyoung smiled but then, in her usual teasing manner, said, "Were you expecting sex earlier?" She’s been curious since earlier.

Yujin blinked, taken aback. "Not really," he said, trying to sound casual, though his heart rate was spiking again. 

"Then why were you trying to remove my underwear?" Wonyoung’s voice was playful, but the question made his mind flash back to what had happened earlier. 

Yujin flushed but, in a rare moment of boldness, answered, "Because I wanted to lick your pussy." 

Wonyoung groaned softly, her imagination going wild at his words. The mental image alone made her squirm slightly, and Yujin could feel the way her body tensed against him. He couldn't help but smile a little, proud of himself for making her react that way. She couldn’t help but shift in his arms, feeling herself melt all over again. The way he held her, the way he spoke — it was like he had unlocked something in her. She turned around, unable to resist, and cupped his face, pulling him into a deep kiss. 

Hearing those words, a rush of warmth surged through her. She felt safe, adored, and utterly content in his arms. A part of her couldn’t help but be intrigued by the idea of going further. Yujin’s earlier words, his desire to please her, lingered in her mind. The thought of him wanting to taste her in that way stirred something inside her, but Wonyoung also knew she wanted to be prepared for that kind of intimacy. 

Yujin responded instantly, his hands finding their way inside her shirt to find her breasts again, kneading them softly as his fingers circled her nipples. The sensation made her moan into his mouth, her body reacting to him with a need she couldn’t ignore. It was as if they’d crossed a threshold, their newfound intimacy fueling their desire for one another. They couldn’t keep their hands off each other now, the connection between them growing stronger with each touch, each kiss. 

As their lips moved together, Yujin felt something shift inside him. Without thinking, in the middle of their heated kiss, he pulled back just enough to whisper, “I love you.” 

Wonyoung froze for a second, her breath catching. She stared into his eyes, seeing the sincerity in them, the raw emotion he couldn’t hide. Her heart pounded, a mixture of surprise and warmth flooding her chest. This wasn’t just physical anymore. Yujin loved her. And somehow, hearing him say it in that moment, she realized that feelings isn’t far from that.

Wonyoung’s heart skipped a beat. She paused for a second, looking into his eyes, and then softly smiled. "I’m falling for you," she confessed, her voice warm and sincere. She ran her fingers through his hair as she added, "You make me so happy." 

Hearing that, Yujin's eyes lit up, and he pulled her closer, his lips pressing against her forehead as he sighed contently. "You make me so happy too," he murmured. 

But then there was that other part of her. The part that was curious, intrigued. With him wanting to lick her down there, she had felt a strange excitement. The thought of being that intimate with him had stirred something in her, something she hadn’t fully expected. Yet, despite the warmth and desire blooming inside her, she knew she wasn’t quite ready for that — at least not yet. 

Wonyoung bit her lip, a slight blush creeping onto her cheeks. She couldn’t imagine exposing herself fully to him just yet. Not with her insecurities about being unprepared. She wanted to feel fresh, to be clean and confident before letting Yujin go that far with her. If Yujin was going to see her in such an intimate way, she wanted it to be perfect. She imagined herself, fresh out of the shower, shaved, and completely ready for him. It was a vulnerable thought, but also an exciting one. 

She could feel herself growing more comfortable with the idea of exploring their physical intimacy now that they had taken their first steps. Yujin had proven that she could trust him, that he respected her boundaries. There would be plenty of time for them to explore each other, to grow even closer. Wonyoung knew that with him, it wasn’t about rushing anything; it was about enjoying and respecting her each way.

As these thoughts circled in her mind, Wonyoung smiled softly to herself. She turned slightly, pressing her back closer against Yujin’s chest. His steady breathing was a comforting rhythm against her, and she let out a soft sigh. She wasn’t ready tonight, but she would be soon. She could already feel herself falling for him more with each moment they spent together. And when the time came, she wanted to be completely ready, in every way. 

For now, though, it was enough just to be here, wrapped in his arms, knowing that Yujin would wait as long as she needed. 

Chapter Text

Wonyoung stirred awake to the sound of Yujin’s phone ringing softly beside her. She blinked, her eyes adjusting to the dim morning light filtering through the curtains. Yujin’s arm was draped over her waist, his body warm and familiar against her back. She was wearing one of his oversized shirts, which hung loosely over her frame, and just her underwear underneath. The feeling was different — comforting, but strange in a new way. She was used to her own bed, her own clothes, but lying there with Yujin holding her close felt so intimate and safe. 

He stirred next to her, his body shifting slightly as he reached lazily for his phone, silencing the alarm with a groggy tap. "Sorry," he muttered, his voice still thick with sleep. "I forgot to turn it off." 

Wonyoung, still half-asleep, turned slightly to face him. "What’s the alarm for?" she asked, her voice soft with sleep. 

"Gym," Yujin mumbled, his eyes barely open as he laid back down. 

She chuckled, impressed by his dedication. "Wow, you really take it seriously," she teased lightly. A memory from last night flashed in her mind — him shirtless, his body had more definition now, visible for the first time in a way she hadn’t fully noticed before. "You’ve got some form now," she added, smiling as she recalled how surprised she’d been by his progress. 

Yujin’s face lit up, a grin spreading across his lips as her words sank in. "You noticed?" he said, suddenly more awake. Her attention and approval seemed to give him a small boost of confidence. "There were times I thought I was gonna throw up from how much I was eating just to gain weight,” he laughed, stretching his arms over his head as he recalled his tough workouts and strict eating habits. He glanced down at himself, satisfied with his progress. "But I’m glad I stuck it out. Now, I’m just focusing on building muscle and eating healthy." 

Wonyoung found his enthusiasm endearing. She could see how much effort he had put into his routine, and hearing the pride in his voice made her feel proud of him too. "Well, it’s paying off. You look good." 

Her compliment made Yujin’s heart swell with pride. It felt good knowing all the effort was not only making a difference to him but that Wonyoung had noticed too. He shifted closer, pulling her into a soft hug, his chin resting on her shoulder as they enjoyed the quiet intimacy of the morning. "Thanks," he whispered. "Hearing that from you makes it all worth it. You have a great body too, you know," he said casually, but with a sincerity that made Wonyoung laugh.

"Was I not really flat?" she teased lightly, but there was a hint of shyness in her voice as she glanced down, feeling a little insecure. She knew Yujin was sweet and honest, but sometimes she couldn’t help but wonder if he was just saying it to make her feel better. Her fingers fiddled with the hem of his oversized shirt as she waited for his response. 

Yujin immediately shook his head, eyes wide. "No, no! I mean it, seriously," he said, his voice full of urgency, not wanting her to doubt him. "You’re sexy, Wonyoung. And you’re so beautiful, inside and out." He reached out, gently lifting her chin so she could look at him. The way he said it made her heart flutter, but she still couldn’t shake the small wave of insecurity that washed over her that morning. 

Noticing that her mood seemed a little down, tilted his head slightly in concern. "What’s wrong?"

Wonyoung hesitated for a moment before she sighed and looked at him, her brows knitting together. "Remember what I told you about how insecure I was about my body?" she asked quietly. 

"Yeah, I remember." 

She took a breath, her voice wavering slightly. "Are you not surprised that I’m inexperienced?" she asked, her gaze dropping to the bed again, as if afraid of what his answer might be. 

Yujin froze for a second, unsure of how to respond. He didn’t want to say the wrong thing, afraid of offending her.

"It’s okay," she said softly. "Be honest with me." 

Yujin let out a breath, deciding to be as truthful as he could without hurting her. "Um, yeah, I guess I was surprised," he admitted carefully, watching her reaction. "But not because I expected you to have dated a lot or anything," he added quickly, seeing her expression shift slightly. "It’s just... you’re so beautiful, Wonyoung. And kind. I thought it was impossible that I was your first relationship." 

Wonyoung’s expression shifted as she thought back to the things she had buried for so long. She gathered her thoughts, glancing at Yujin’s warm face. His presence made her feel safe, and that’s why she wanted to share this part of herself with him.

“Do you remember what I told you about high school?” she began quietly. “How the guys there used to call me beautiful but… flat?”

Yujin nodded, his eyes full of understanding as he squeezed her hand, urging her to continue. Wonyoung took a deep breath, feeling the old pain resurface. She had tried to forget about it, but now, with Yujin, she wanted to open up. 

“There was this one guy,” she started, her voice trembling slightly as she spoke. “He… he confessed that he liked me, and I didn’t really know how to feel back then, but we started hanging out. I guess we were kind of dating.” She paused, swallowing the lump forming in her throat. 

“One day at school, he started kissing me,” she continued, her gaze drifting as if she were seeing the memory replay in front of her. “But it wasn’t gentle anymore. It was different. And before I knew it, he grabbed my breast.” 

Her voice faltered, “I pushed him away,” she said, her voice quiet, but filled with the insecurity she had been holding in for years. “And he stopped, but then he said… he said it was true that I was flat.” 

She let out a shaky breath, her eyes filling with a mix of anger and vulnerability as she recalled the cruel words. “After that, the other guys started teasing me even more. They’d call me a skeleton, or… or imply I had an eating disorder because I was thin.” Her voice cracked as she finally let out the words. “I hated it. I hated how they made me feel about my own body.” 

Yujin was quiet for a moment, processing everything she had just shared with him. Then, with a sigh, he muttered, “I really need to kill those guys.” 

Wonyoung turned her head, her lips curving into a soft smile at his protective tone. "That’s why I was so reluctant to date," she admitted. "I didn’t feel confident in myself, or my body. I just thought it would be easier to focus on studying. That’s why we saved up and moved away. I wanted to forget those people and that part of my life." 

Yujin, not hesitating for a second, leaned over and kissed her. His lips were soft, warm, and full of love, as if he was trying to pour all his feelings into that single kiss. When he pulled back, his eyes were full of sincerity as he whispered, "Wonyoung, you’re beautiful. I’ll remind you every day if I have to, that you’re amazing and perfect just the way you are. And I love you. Always." 

Wonyoung smiled, her heart swelling with warmth and love. "I’m so lucky to have you, Yujin," she said, her fingers tracing lazy patterns on his arm. "After I rejected you at first… I’m glad you put up with me. You were so persistent." She gave a small laugh, remembering how determined he had been in winning her over. 

Yujin chuckled softly, brushing a strand of hair away from her face. "Worth every second." 

Wonyoung’s smile faltered just a little as she remembered something. "That’s why I felt bad when I found out you were trying to change your body for me," she confessed. "I know what it’s like to be called thin, or a stick. I didn’t want you to feel like you had to do that for me." 

Yujin shook his head. "I’m not doing it just for you," he said. "I’m doing it for myself too. I wanted to feel more confident. And trust me, now that I’ve been hitting the gym, I can finally say that I can confidently remove my shirt." He grinned mischievously, trying to lighten the mood. 

"Was I really not flat?" 

Yujin looked at her, shaking his head firmly. "No," he said, a playful glint in his eyes. "You have the most beautiful breasts and nipples." He smirked, his teasing tone making her cheeks flush. "In fact, I think I need to feel them again to remember just how beautiful they are." 

Wonyoung felt her face heat up, a mix of embarrassment and excitement swirling inside her. Before she could respond, Yujin leaned in and kissed her, slow and deep, his hands sliding under the oversized shirt she was wearing. His fingers traced delicate patterns on her skin, and Wonyoung’s breath hitched as his touch sent warmth flooding through her body. 

In between their kisses, Yujin whispered against her lips, "I want you." 

Wonyoung’s heart skipped at his words, her hand instinctively reaching up to run through his hair, pulling him closer. A soft moan escaped her lips in response, her body melting into his. His fingers moved to the hem of the shirt, tracing the fabric as if asking for permission. Wonyoung, feeling a deep sense of trust and longing, let him lift the shirt up, exposing herself to him. 

Now, as she lay there topless, just in her underwear, her skin tingled with the intimate closeness between them. She felt more vulnerable and connected to Yujin than ever before, her heart pounding in her chest. Yujin’s gaze was full of warmth and admiration as his hands gently kneaded her breasts, his fingers brushing over her nipples. She found herself wanting more. The intimacy they were sharing felt so right, so natural, and she wanted to feel him closer, not just emotionally but physically too. 

A thought crossed her mind, almost unbidden, but she couldn’t ignore it. She wanted to feel him — to feel his skin, his warmth, just as he was feeling hers. She wanted them to be equal, for both of them to be bare together in this moment, like she was in nothing but her underwear. Quietly, without saying a word, she reached for the hem of Yujin’s shirt. Her fingers gently tugged at the fabric, lifting it slowly. 

As the shirt came up, revealing more of his body, her heart skipped a beat. The sight of him like this sent a rush of excitement through her. She didn’t need to say anything — the look in her eyes, the way her hands glided over his now exposed chest, said it all. She appreciated him, admired the effort he’d put in, and the way his body felt against hers. 

Yujin, sensing the shift, smiled against her lips before his mouth began to trail down her neck. His lips pressed softly against her skin, sending shivers down her spine. She gasped quietly, her hands instinctively moving to his back, pulling him closer as her body responded to his touch. Then, Yujin’s hand began to slip inside her underwear again, his fingers brushing against her in a way that made her whole body tense with anticipation. 

He paused, pulling away slightly to look at her. His eyes, full of tenderness, searched hers as he asked, "Is this okay?" 

Wonyoung’s heart swelled at his thoughtfulness, the way he always made sure she felt comfortable. She met his gaze, her eyes filled with trust and desire, and nodded, feeling no hesitation. "Yes."

In that moment, Wonyoung realized just how much she trusted him. It was okay, more than okay, because it was Yujin. He had shown her nothing but love, care, and patience. 

Yujin’s fingers rubbed gently but purposefully against Wonyoung, focusing on that sensitive spot that made her gasp in pleasure. Her soft reaction sent a rush through him, and he felt her body respond to every touch. His mind raced, feeling the warmth and wetness beneath his fingertips. 

As he continued to circle his fingers around her clit, an idea crossed his mind: Should I slip my fingers inside her? The thought made his heart pound. Part of him wondered if he should ask first. He didn’t want to push too far or make her uncomfortable. But then, he remembered their conversation — how she’d told him she liked being surprised by him, that if something didn’t feel right, she would tell him. It was a sign of trust, one he didn't take lightly. 

I can do this, he reassured himself. She trusts me, and I trust her to let me know. With that, Yujin let his hand drift lower, caressing her in slow, deliberate strokes. His fingers found the entrance, feeling how wet and ready she was. Without asking, but with careful thought, he inserted one finger gently inside her. 

The moment his finger slipped in, he felt how easily it entered, she was so wet yet so tight. He froze for a second, allowing her to adjust, his breath catching in his throat. Wonyoung gasped again, her lips parting in surprise as her body responded to the new sensation. Yujin watched her face, the way her eyes fluttered shut for a moment, lips slightly parted, adjusting to the feeling of his finger deep inside her. He stayed still, waiting for her to react, wanting her to feel comfortable before he moved. 

Yujin could hardly believe how tight she felt around his finger. The warmth, the softness — it all overwhelmed him, making it hard to focus on anything else. She's really letting me do this, he thought, both in awe and disbelief, feeling how snugly her body held him. 

Wonyoung, her eyes squeezed shut, could barely think. Yujin’s long finger was inside her, and all she could focus on was the overwhelming sensation it brought. Her mind struggled to process it — Yujin's finger... inside me. She could feel every inch of it, how it stretched her just enough, and when he pulled it back slightly, the absence made her even more aware of what had just happened. The sensation of him withdrawing, even for a moment, intensified everything, grounding her in the intimate reality of what they were doing together. 

When Yujin gently pushed his finger back inside her, it felt even better, like her body was welcoming him deeper. He found her clit with his thumb, pressing down softly at first, then circling it, matching the rhythm of his finger as it started moving in and out of her, slowly but deliberately. 

Yujin’s lips moved lower, gently capturing her nipple. The sensation sent a jolt through Wonyoung’s body, her breath catching in her throat. His tongue circled slowly, making her feel intensely aware of every part of her body that he touched. 

His long finger slid inside her, gently curling as it moved in and out. The depth of the sensation made Wonyoung gasp softly, her chest rising and falling with each breath, feeling completely open and vulnerable beneath him. The intimacy of his touch, skin to skin, was something she hadn’t expected to feel so deeply. 

Wonyoung's body responded instinctively, her hips lifting slightly to meet his touch. She was so wet that each thrust of his finger made a slick, almost indecent sound, which only heightened the tension between them. A part of her felt a flicker of embarrassment at the sounds coming from between them, her wetness making each motion more audible. But that thought quickly faded as pleasure overtook her again. The sounds of their intimacy became just another layer to the experience — evidence of how much she wanted this, how much she trusted Yujin to do this to her. She could hardly believe how good it felt, how Yujin is making her feel so good right now. The sensation of his long finger inside her — sliding in, curling, then pulling out — was overwhelming. She moaned softly, the heat building in her lower belly, an ache that only Yujin could soothe. She was lost in the feeling, the slow pleasure overtaking her thoughts. She couldn’t think clearly, not with the way his fingers moved so perfectly in rhythm with her needs.

Yujin could feel how tight she was around his finger, and it amazed him. She was so warm, so wet, and he wanted to drive her further, to make her feel as good as she deserved. He slowly withdrew his finger, hearing Wonyoung gasp softly, then slid it back inside her, this time curling it to reach deeper. Her walls clenched around him, and he couldn't help but groan softly at the feeling.  

His fingers curled inside her again, reaching a place that made her whole body tremble. His thumb never left her clit, circling in time with his movements, and she moaned softly, her eyes half-lidded in pleasure. It felt like everything was building — his mouth on her nipple, his fingers inside her, the slow, delicious pressure that kept climbing higher. Her body felt heated, every nerve alive and responding to him. 

Her hips bucked involuntarily, seeking more of the friction, and Yujin knew she was close. His lips left her breast and trailed kisses up her neck, his breath hot against her skin as he whispered her name between each kiss. "Wonyoung," he murmured against her ear, his thumb pressing more insistently against her clit, rubbing it faster as his finger moved faster inside her. 

She couldn’t believe how good it felt, her mind reeling from the pleasure, her body trembling beneath him. Her moans grew louder, less restrained, as Yujin’s finger curled inside her again, stroking her from within while his thumb worked her clit. The combined sensations were driving her over the edge, and she couldn’t think of anything else but how deeply connected she felt to him in that moment. 

The heat between them grew unbearable as her pleasure built, and the wet sounds of his fingers thrusting inside her only made her feel more aroused. She shut her eyes, her lips parting in soft moans as she let herself surrender fully to the sensation, to Yujin. Every part of her felt alive — her nipples, her clit, the tightness between her legs where his finger was stretching her. 

Yujin's mouth returned to her nipple, sucking it gently, and that sent her over the edge. She gasped, her body trembling as the tension finally broke, pleasure flooding through her as her moans filled the air. Yujin felt her clenching around his finger and kept moving it, slow and deep, letting her ride out the wave of her orgasm as she moaned again and again.

As she lay there, catching her breath from the intensity of her first orgasm, Yujin gently withdrew his fingers, now slick with her wetness. Without thinking, he brought them to his lips, licking them clean. Wonyoung’s eyes widened in shock as she gasped, covering her flushed face with her palms. 

Yujin, amused by her reaction, tilted his head and asked softly, "What's wrong?" 

Her voice came out in a flustered rush, muffled by her hands. "I'm embarrassed...!" 

“You have nothing to be embarrassed about, Wonyoung,” he murmured. Then, with a teasing grin, he added, “And you taste really good.” 

Wonyoung’s face turned an even deeper shade of red as she peeked through her fingers, smacking him lightly on the shoulder. “Yujin! You’re so naughty,” she huffed, but there was a smile tugging at her lips. She lowered her hands, still feeling the lingering heat in her cheeks. 

A comfortable silence settled between them before Wonyoung’s mind began to drift. “Hmm... What time should I go home?” she wondered aloud, though she was unsure. Part of her wanted to stay a bit longer, enjoying the warmth of being close to Yujin, but she knew she had responsibilities, and they both had things to do. 

Yujin felt a pang of disappointment at the thought of her leaving. He had just experienced something so intimate with her, and now that he knew what it felt like to share that closeness with her, he didn’t want it to end so soon. It’s just Saturday, after all. They still had time together. 

With a hopeful glance, he asked, “Can you stay here again tonight?” 

Wonyoung blinked, surprised by the request. “Yujin, we have to study.” 

Yujin grinned, trying his best to appear earnest. “I promise we’ll study! You can use my desk, and I’ll stay far away — I won’t distract you. You can be in my room, and I’ll go to the living room, no distractions at all.” 

She looked skeptical, already knowing how hard it would be to concentrate with him nearby, but before she could protest again, he quickly added, “I’ll go get your stuff for you.” 

Wonyoung raised an eyebrow, still hesitant. “But I don’t have any clothes here.” 

Yujin waved his hand dismissively, ready with another solution. “You can wear mine, or I’ll even go buy you something right now if you want, or I will get your clothes from your dorm. Just stay. Please?”

She opened her mouth to respond but found herself laughing at how persistent he was. Every excuse she had, Yujin seemed to have an answer for. His determination to keep her there was both endearing and convincing. Finally, she sighed in defeat, giving him a small nod. “Okay, I’ll stay,” she agreed. 

But before he could get too excited, she added firmly, “But we’re not going all the way tonight, okay?” 

Yujin’s expression softened, and he nodded immediately, his voice full of reassurance. “I promise. We won’t go all the way.” 

***

Wonyoung stood in her dorm room, folding a few more items of clothing into her duffel bag. She was only supposed to be packing for tonight, but the thought crossed her mind that maybe she might stay at Yujin’s a bit longer. Her hands hovered over an extra set of pajamas, slipping them in just in case. She wasn’t ready to admit it to herself fully, but something about Yujin’s room felt cozier, warmer than the cold, sterile dorm. 

As she zipped up her bag, Liz and Giselle burst into the room, curiosity written all over their faces. 

“So...how did last night go?” Liz asked, waggling her eyebrows. “Did you two finally do it?” 

Wonyoung’s cheeks immediately flushed, and she rolled her eyes at their teasing. “No, we didn’t,” she replied, shaking her head. “I’m not ready for that yet.” 

Liz let out a dramatic sigh, feigning disappointment. “Boring!” she teased, flopping onto Wonyoung’s bed. 

Giselle smirked from the doorway. “For a second, I thought you came back early to ask us for a morning-after pill or something,” she joked, making Wonyoung laugh. 

Wonyoung laughed, shaking her head again, though she could feel her cheeks turning even redder. “Nope, not yet,” she said lightly. “Someday, we’ll get there, but I’m just... not there yet.” 

Giselle shrugged nonchalantly, but there was a teasing glint in her eye. “Well, when you do, just know that bare is better than a condom.” 

Wonyoung chuckled and shook her head. “Giselle, gosh! But seriously, we’re not there yet,” she said. “I need more time.” 

As she picked up her duffel bag, Liz’s eyes widened in mock surprise at the sight of it. “Wait... are you moving in with him or something?” Liz teased, raising an eyebrow. “You packed like half your wardrobe in there!” 

Wonyoung bit her lip, flustered by the attention. “No, I didn’t,” she defended. “I have my books and study notes in here too! It’s not just clothes.” 

Liz gave her a knowing look, crossing her arms with a smirk. “Yeah, right,” she teased. “A whole duffel bag for one night? Sure, sure.” 

Wonyoung huffed playfully, but she couldn’t help the small smile on her face. “You never know, I just like being prepared,” she muttered, picking up her bag and slinging it over her shoulder. 

The truth was, as much as she enjoyed the banter with her friends, there was a small part of her that looked forward to the comfort of Yujin’s room. Maybe it was the warmth he offered or the way she could sleep soundly next to him. The dorm was cold and sterile, but with Yujin... she felt so relaxed. Maybe because his bed is bigger.

“Well, I’m heading out,” Wonyoung said with a wave, ready to leave the teasing behind. Liz and Giselle called after her with more teasing remarks, but Wonyoung just smiled and made her way downstairs. 

***

As Wonyoung descended the stairs and met Yujin in the lobby, he immediately reached for her duffel bag, slinging it over his shoulder without a word. She smiled softly at him, appreciating the gesture, and they laced their fingers together as they walked out of the dorm. 

The winter air nipped at their faces, but their hands stayed warm as they headed towards the convenience store. Inside, Wonyoung wandered through the aisles, grabbing her usual essentials — her shampoo, lotion, and some other small things she liked to have. Yujin followed, picking up some easy-to-cook meals for the next few days. It was cold, and the thought of delivery seemed too impersonal when they could cook something simple together. 

Wonyoung felt a growing excitement as she tossed things into the basket, the realization hitting her that she would be staying with Yujin for a little longer. The idea of waking up in his room, making meals together, and studying side by side made her heart race in a pleasant way. It was like they were already building small pieces of a life together, and the thought made her blush. 

Yujin, on the other hand, had his own quiet thoughts. As he carried the heavy duffel bag, he couldn’t help but notice how much Wonyoung had packed. Something about the weight of the bag made him think she might be planning to stay for more than just a night. Maybe she’d leave some of her things at his place. Maybe this was her way of getting comfortable in his space, slowly making it theirs. 

He didn't want to jinx it by saying anything, but he could feel his heart swelling with warmth at the thought of Wonyoung staying over more often. He wanted her to feel at home with him, to feel like she could relax and unwind in his room just as much as she did in her dorm. If she was comfortable, maybe she would make it a regular thing. He liked that idea. A lot. 

As they reached the counter, Yujin quickly paid for everything, waving off Wonyoung’s protests. He shot her a playful grin, brushing it off with a simple, "It’s fine, I got this." She just smiled, shaking her head as they gathered their bags and left the store. 

On the walk back to his dorm, Yujin felt the cold breeze biting at his skin, but the warmth of Wonyoung’s hand in his and the thought of spending the next few days with her kept him feeling warm inside. He couldn’t wait to get back and settle in with her, knowing that the time they were about to spend together would bring them even closer. 

***

After picking up a few more things from the store, Wonyoung and Yujin stopped by a nearby fast-food place to buy breakfast. 

Once they had their food in hand, they headed back to Yujin’s place, walking hand in hand. The moment they got in, Yujin made sure to adjust the heater to Wonyoung's liking. He knew she preferred the room a little warmer, and the gesture made her smile as she settled onto the couch with their breakfast spread in front of them. Both of them glad they had the next few days to stay inside, away from the chill. 

"You know, I have an empty drawer in my closet," he said casually, "You can put your clothes in there if you want." 

Wonyoung paused, raising her eyebrows and giving him a teasing look. "Oh really?" she said, smirking. "You want me to move in or something?" 

Yujin laughed. He didn’t deny it, just gave her a sheepish look, the hint of a blush creeping up his cheeks. “Maybe,” he shrugged, trying to play it cool, but Wonyoung could see right through him. 

She giggled, setting her coffee down. “Yujin, you’re so transparent,” she teased. “You really want me to stay here?”

He scratched the back of his head, grinning. “Well, wouldn’t it be nice?“

Wonyoung’s heart fluttered at his words. Deep down, she knew Yujin was serious. The idea of waking up and falling asleep with her every day, sharing meals and moments like this — it was something Yujin clearly wanted. It was his way of showing how much he cared about her, how much he cherished the idea of them being together in every way. 

Yujin’s mind wandered as he took another bite, thinking about how perfect it would be. This was just the beginning, sure, but having Wonyoung stay over, seeing her clothes next to his, was like a glimpse into their future. They were still young, both navigating their paths — he in his third year, and Wonyoung just starting her journey in law school — but the thought of her growing comfortable with the idea of living with him made him feel like they were building something real. He didn’t want to push her, but the drawer, the empty space in his closet — it was a quiet invitation. A small step. He wanted Wonyoung to feel at home in his place, to know she could stay as long as she liked. 

Wonyoung’s eyes softened as she looked at him. “Maybe I’ll put a few things in there...”

***

Later, Wonyoung was deep into her studies at the dining table, her concentration unbroken for hours. The silence in Yujin’s apartment felt almost comforting as she worked, absorbed in her books and notes. True to his word, Yujin stayed out of her way, holed up in his room, quietly reading or sometimes playing games, giving her the space she needed to focus. 

Yujin, however, wasn't used to sitting still for so long. After three hours, he couldn’t help but marvel at Wonyoung’s ability to stay focused. His attention span usually ran out after an hour, and by then, he was already restless. So, he decided to do something nice for her, a way to show her he was thinking of her even while giving her space. 

He slipped out of his room quietly, sneaking a glance at Wonyoung. She briefly looked up, their eyes meeting for a split second, but she immediately returned to her books, so focused that Yujin had to stifle a smile. Not wanting to break her concentration, he carefully made his way to the kitchen, tiptoeing around like a ninja. Yujin got to work quietly, brewing a fresh cup of coffee and opening a pack of cookies. He arranged them neatly on a small plate and made sure the coffee was just how Wonyoung liked it. He then tiptoed back toward the dining table, cautiously setting the coffee and cookies down on the empty spot next to her.

Wonyoung looked up, her eyes softening when she saw what he’d done. Yujin gave her a small, warm smile. "Snack break," he whispered, his voice low so as not to disturb her too much. 

Before she could say anything, Yujin quickly disappeared back to his room, leaving her with the small surprise. 

Wonyoung couldn’t help but chuckle softly to herself. His sweet gesture warmed her heart. She took a small break, sipping the coffee he had made and nibbling on the cookies. It was such a simple thing, but it reminded her of how thoughtful Yujin could be, always knowing when to show he cared without getting in her way. As she sat there, a sense of comfort washed over her, making the space they shared feel even cozier. It was the little things, like this moment, that made her feel closer and more comfortable with him.

***

As the afternoon turns to evening, Wonyoung decides to cook beef stew. Yujin, always eager to spend time with her, offers to help, even though his skills in the kitchen are questionable at best. 

“Wonstew time!” Yujin says, grinning ear to ear as he washes his hands, ready to assist. 

They both stand side by side in the kitchen. Wonyoung is focused on preparing the ingredients, while Yujin clumsily handles the vegetables, attempting to dice them under her supervision. 

“Yujin, you’re cutting them way too big,” she scolds him, looking over his shoulder. She takes the knife from him gently and demonstrates how to do it. “Like this, smaller. You need to make sure they cook evenly.” 

“Got it, chef,” Yujin teases, leaning in slightly, trying to be closer to her. 

They continue working together, Yujin mostly providing moral support and light banter as Wonyoung takes charge. At one point, while waiting for the stew to simmer, Yujin brings up something on his mind. 

“Hey, Wonyoung,” he begins, glancing at her while stirring the pot. “I was thinking… we should go somewhere after finals. Like on a mini-vacation.” 

“A vacation? Where?” 

“I dunno, like Jeju Island maybe? Or we could visit another country close by. It’d be fun.” 

Wonyoung thinks for a moment but then frowns slightly. “You know I have to work at your mom’s law firm, right? Whenever I don’t have school, I’m there. It’s hard to find free time.” 

Yujin's hopeful expression falters a bit, but he doesn’t give up. “What about just for a weekend? We don’t have to go for long. Just a short getaway.” 

“I don’t know… I’d have to check my schedule, and if I have extra money.” Wonyoung stirs the stew a little more, distracted by the thought. 

Yujin immediately shakes his head. “You don’t need to worry about money. I’ll take care of everything.” 

Wonyoung laughs softly, shaking her head. “No, that’s too much. I’d feel shy having you pay for everything.” 

“I’m the guy. I am inviting you. I should pay. Don’t worry about it.”

Wonyoung glances at him with a smirk. “And where’s this money coming from? Your allowance?” 

Yujin chuckles and shakes his head. “No, I’ve been saving, remember my part-time job last semester, plus I stream sometimes and get donations. I’ve also made some money buying and selling collectibles. Oh, and I have a little crypto. So it’s fine.”

Wonyoung pauses, surprised at how resourceful Yujin has been. “I didn’t realize you had all these side hustles. I’ll think about it, okay?” 

“Good enough for me,” Yujin says, satisfied with her answer, but he can’t hide the excitement in his eyes. 

The kitchen starts to fill with the rich, savory aroma of the stew as it nears completion. Wonyoung gives it one final stir and tastes a bit, nodding in approval. “Alright, it’s done. Let’s eat.” 

Yujin immediately perks up again. “Wonstew!” he cheers enthusiastically, quickly grabbing plates from the cabinet. 

***

Wonyoung stood in Yujin’s bathroom. She was naked, her skin slightly chilled from the cold air in the room, and in her hand, she held a razor, staring at it with a flushed expression. Her cheeks burned, and she felt a wave of shyness wash over her. 

Why am I even thinking about shaving right now? she asked herself, biting her lower lip. She stared down at her body, thinking about what could happen tonight. She was already low-key excited — maybe a little too excited — for what might unfold with Yujin. They had spent the whole day together, studying, cooking, and laughing, and now, as the day was winding down, she found her thoughts drifting to more intimate possibilities. 

Her heart fluttered as she thought about how Yujin had touched her before, his fingers exploring her with care and curiosity. Would he do it again tonight? she wondered, her face growing warmer. Or maybe… they would go even further this time? 

She shook her head slightly, trying to push the thoughts away, but her body betrayed her, a soft tingle running down her spine at the idea. She could almost picture it — their naked bodies pressed against each other, skin against skin, the heat between them keeping them warm in the cold room. The feeling of his hands on her, the way he made her feel both shy and eager all at once. 

But maybe… maybe we’re both too tired after studying all day, she reasoned with herself, a slight smile tugging at her lips. The idea of just curling up in bed, wrapped in Yujin’s arms, felt comforting. It was so cold outside, and the thought of their bodies pressed together under the blankets, sharing warmth, felt just as intimate as anything else. 

Her mind wandered back to the warmth of his skin, the way his body fit perfectly against hers. Would he want to do something tonight? she wondered, feeling a flutter of nerves mix with anticipation. Her hand tightened around the razor, her face growing even redder at the thought of preparing herself for something that may not even happen. 

Wonyoung took a deep breath, her heart still racing as she made up her mind. The warmth of the bathroom enveloped her, and she slowly lowered herself to sit on the edge of the tub. With a steady hand, she began shaving her legs, moving the razor carefully along her smooth skin, making sure every stroke was precise. The soft scrape of the blade was the only sound in the quiet bathroom, and with each pass, she felt her body become more prepared, more ready. 

As she moved to her inner thighs, her breath hitched slightly, the nerves building up again as she focused on making sure there was no hair left. Her hand trembled slightly at the thought of what she was doing — getting herself ready for Yujin, though they hadn’t even discussed going further tonight. But part of her wanted to be ready, to feel clean, smooth, and confident. 

When she moved the razor carefully over her mound, she paused for a moment, her cheeks flushing deeply as her fingers brushed against her lips, checking her work. Her skin was soft and bare, and as she ran her hand down, she felt her clit, sensitive to the touch. She gasped softly at the sensation, her heart racing as she moved her fingers just enough to check that everything was perfectly shaved. 

The warmth in her body spread as she touched herself, not in a way to seek pleasure but to make sure she was really ready. The thought of Yujin touching her there again filled her mind, and she bit her lip, wondering if he would notice how smooth she had made herself, how prepared she was for him. 

As she rinsed off, she couldn’t help but feel a mix of excitement and embarrassment. It wasn’t like they had planned anything, but her body seemed to be preparing itself for the possibility. She knew she wasn’t quite ready to go all the way, but the idea of them doing more, of Yujin seeing her like this — completely bare, smooth, and prepared — made her stomach flip in anticipation. 

She finished up, patting herself dry with a towel, her face still flushed with a mix of excitement and nerves. Wrapping the towel around her body, she glanced at her reflection in the mirror, her eyes wide with anticipation. Whatever happens, she thought to herself, I’ll be ready. 

***

Yujin lay beside Wonyoung, staring at the ceiling with both hands tucked behind his head. His mind wandered as he heard the soft sound of Wonyoung flipping pages, fully immersed in her book. The warmth of her presence next to him made him restless, though not in an uncomfortable way. It was the kind of restlessness that came from anticipation, from wanting more. He had shaved earlier, making sure he was clean, just in case. The thought made him smile slightly, a bit of nervous excitement bubbling up. 

His thoughts drifted back to earlier that morning, remembering how Wonyoung had reacted when he touched her, the soft gasps, the way her body responded under his fingers. He couldn't help but wonder if she liked it as much as he did — if she’d been thinking about it too. He glanced at her from the corner of his eye, watching her as she focused on her book. The sight of her, so relaxed, freshly showered, her long legs in view, smelling like her lotion, made his heart race a little. He wanted to do more, to surprise her, excite her, make her feel as good as she made him feel. 

What if I touch her again? he thought, his mind racing. He wondered if she’d let him. His fingers twitched at the memory of her warmth, how wet she felt under his touch. He couldn’t help but imagine what it would feel like now, after she’d taken a bath. Would she like it if I went further this time? His thoughts flickered between curiosity and desire. 

Yujin had no intention of rushing things — he respected Wonyoung too much for that — but he couldn’t deny that he wanted to make her feel good again, to relax her after all the hours of studying. And selfishly, he wanted her to keep staying at his place, to feel comfortable and safe with him. If I can surprise her, show her how much I want her to stay here, maybe she’ll come over more often, he mused. He liked the idea of them spending nights like this together, studying, talking, and then... well, exploring more intimate moments when the time felt right. 

He shifted slightly, glancing at Wonyoung again. She was still reading, her expression calm and focused. He bit his lip, thinking about how to approach her without overwhelming her. His fingers itched to reach out, to slide across her smooth skin, but he wanted to make sure she was comfortable first. Maybe if I start slow... he thought, trying to figure out the best way to surprise her tonight, to make the evening special. 

***

Yujin stirred awake slowly, his mind still foggy from sleep, but the soft sensation of lips pressing against his made him open his eyes. He blinked groggily, barely processing at first, but there she was — Wonyoung, her face so close, her lips cold from the night air, gently kissing him. She whispered, "Goodnight," but her kisses didn’t stop. They lingered, soft and affectionate, making Yujin smile as he lazily kissed her back. 

Wonyoung found it amusing how Yujin had fallen asleep while she was still studying. Now that she was finally ready to cuddle, he was out cold. She had felt chilly, so she snuggled up close, wanting to feel his warmth against her body. 

Yujin’s mind was slowly catching up to the moment. Her lips were cool and as he kissed her back, feeling the way she melted into him, his sleepiness started to fade. He could feel her soft body pressing closer, seeking warmth, and instinctively, he wrapped his arms around her, pulling her even closer. Her cold hands clutched the blanket, pulling it over both of them as they snuggled deeper into the bed. 

"Are you done studying?" Yujin mumbled sleepily as he kissed her again. 

"Yeah, sorry it took me so long," Wonyoung replied, her voice a quiet murmur as she smiled against his lips. 

"It’s okay," Yujin said, his heart beating a little faster now. Their lips met again, and this time, there was more urgency. He kissed her deeply, feeling her warmth slowly returning, her breath mingling with his. As his hands roamed her back, feeling the curves of her body under the blanket, he felt a familiar rush of excitement that made his sleepiness fade completely. 

He pressed his lips to her neck, feeling the soft skin against his mouth. The warmth of her body, the scent of her freshly washed hair, the way she nestled against him — it all awakened something inside him. He kissed her neck slowly, letting his lips trail down to her collarbone, feeling her soft sighs in response. The sleepy haze that had weighed him down just moments ago was now replaced by a sudden, irresistible desire. 

Yujin's hand slipped under Wonyoung's shirt, his fingers grazing her warm skin. His touch was light and teasing, roaming across her stomach and barely brushing the curves of her breasts. Wonyoung's breath hitched, her body reacting to the soft, playful caresses. She let out a quiet, shaky moan, a mix of surprise and pleasure. But as his fingers moved, she shivered slightly, feeling the coolness of his hands. 

"Your hands are cold." 

Yujin murmured a quick apology. "Sorry," he whispered against her neck. "I’ll warm you up." Without missing a beat, he gently lifted her shirt, though the moment felt anything but cold. Wonyoung’s thoughts wandered for a moment, realizing how natural this felt between them now. She wasn’t as shy as before. They’d just started exploring this side of their relationship, but somehow, being this close, this exposed, felt right. She trusted him, and there was a quiet thrill in knowing that. 

As her shirt came off completely, she felt the warmth of Yujin’s body as he hovered over her, their gazes locking for a brief second. Her legs parted naturally, and Yujin nestled himself between them, his body aligning with hers. He kissed her, deeply, then moved to her neck, his lips tracing a slow, deliberate path down to her chest. Each kiss sent a shiver of warmth through her, as his touch and the feeling of his lips became all she could focus on. 

As the warmth between them grew, Yujin and Wonyoung shared a lingering kiss, their bodies close, the tension of the day melting away. Yujin's hand gently caressed her, roaming over her breast, his fingertips tracing soft patterns along her body. Wonyoung, her breath shallow from the intensity of the moment, pulled back slightly and met his gaze. 

"Take off your shirt," she said quietly. 

Yujin, his chest rising and falling with a breath, gave her a smile before complying, pulling his shirt off and letting it fall onto the floor. He could feel the cold air on his skin but didn’t mind, the warmth between them already more than enough to make him feel alive. 

Wonyoung's eyes roamed over shoulders for a moment, and then, as if on instinct, she pulled him closer, their bodies now fully pressed together under the warmth of the blankets. Yujin kissed her again, this time more slowly, savoring the closeness as their hands explored the small space between them, making sure to give each other that careful, tender touch. 

He kissed her neck, and she responded, her breath coming in soft, uneven gasps. Then, slowly, his lips drifted lower, down the curve of her chest, where he paused, feeling her breath hitch. His gaze was filled with admiration and longing, a quiet reverence for the woman before him. Wonyoung’s heart raced, but she didn’t pull away.

His kisses deepened, and Yujin’s tongue brushed against her skin, a flicker of sensation that made Wonyoung shiver beneath him. He continued, his lips finding their way around her breast as he kissed her more firmly, his tongue teasing the sensitive spots he knew would make her tremble. He flicked his tongue lightly over her nipple, teasing her, before his lips closed around it, sucking gently. Wonyoung gasped softly, her hand instinctively threading through his hair, pulling him closer as the sensation washed over her. Her body responded to him, a mix of warmth and tension, but she felt safe, knowing Yujin wouldn’t push her beyond what she was ready for. His mouth moved slowly, savoring each kiss, each flick of his tongue, his touch still filled with affection. 

Wonyoung's thoughts raced — how comfortable she felt with him now, how only a few weeks ago while ago, this level of intimacy would have terrified her. But Yujin was careful, thoughtful, but she could also feel the unspoken desire in the way he kissed her. As his mouth moved from one breast to the other, Wonyoung let out a soft sigh, her body arching slightly toward him, inviting more. 

Tonight felt different. The moment was more intimate, more real. She could feel his hands on her waist, his lips returning to the curve of her neck, and her heart raced a little faster with every touch. Her thoughts drifted to the careful preparations she had made earlier, her own quiet nervousness at being so exposed. She hadn’t anticipated feeling this vulnerable, but now, with Yujin, she felt strangely comfortable. His admiration, his gentle care — it made her feel beautiful, like she was truly seen. She had always been reserved, a little shy, but with him, she realized she didn’t need to be. 

As Yujin slowly pulled back to look at her, his eyes filled with anticipation, a quiet excitement coursed through him. This was a new step for both of them — he could feel it, and his heart beat faster in sync with his thoughts. He wanted to show her just how much she meant to him. His hands trembled slightly as he reached for the waistband of her underwear, slowly pulling it down, taking in the moment. 

For a brief second, Wonyoung’s eyes widened, her legs instinctively pulling together. She’d never been this exposed before, and the vulnerability made her heart race. But Yujin, sensing her hesitation, paused for a moment. “Don’t be shy,” he whispered softly, his voice low and reassuring. “You’re beautiful.” 

She met his gaze, her breath catching slightly. There was something in his eyes, something genuine. He wasn’t looking at her as if she were an object, but as if she was someone he truly cared for. That realization made her feel safe, even if she was nervous. With a deep breath, she relaxed, her legs parting just enough to allow him to continue. 

As Yujin gently pulled down Wonyoung’s underwear, a small wave of excitement surged through him. He stared at the fabric in his hand, feeling a sense of anticipation that made his heart race. Unable to resist, he brought it to his face for a quick breath, taking in the intimate scent of her. It was intoxicating, and he couldn’t help but close his eyes for a moment, savoring the thought of how close they were to something deeper. 

Wonyoung, watching him, felt her face grow warm. Oh my god, she thought, both embarrassed and strangely flattered. She felt flustered but excited by Yujin’s actions. It was bold, something she didn’t expect, but she found herself liking it more than she thought she would. Still, her nerves kicked in, and she instinctively covered herself with both hands, hiding her pussy from his gaze. 

Yujin noticed and, ever gentle, leaned forward. His voice was soft as he reassured her, "You don’t have to be shy, Wonyoung. You’re beautiful. Perfect, just like this." 

His sweet words made her heart flutter, and her nerves began to calm. He bent down, kissing the hands that were hiding her. His lips were warm against her skin, and when his tongue flicked out, teasing her knuckles, a shiver ran down her spine. She couldn’t help but imagine what it would feel like if her hands weren’t there. Would he really kiss me… there? The thought made her both curious and excited, and her breath quickened with anticipation. 

Yujin continued to kiss and lick her hands, his gaze full of adoration. He wanted her to feel comfortable, to know how much he treasured her. As he kissed the back of her hand, Wonyoung’s mind was spinning with what could happen next.

Her body was still, but he could feel her heart racing just like his own. She wasn’t just physically exposed — she was giving him a piece of herself that was so raw, so intimate. Wonyoung’s hands, which had been guarding her most private part of herself, now fell gently to the side, as if inviting him to come closer. She was trusting him, and that realization hit him like a wave. 

Yujin’s breath hitched. His heart raced, and a wave of anticipation coursed through him. His eyes were immediately drawn to her, to the soft skin that glistened in the dim light. His mind went blank for a second, unable to process the sight before him. 

Oh my god… He couldn’t believe it — he was really seeing her like this, bare and exposed, and it was overwhelming. His pulse quickened, his gaze locked on her wetness. The sight alone made his head spin, his body reacting in ways he couldn’t control. She was beautiful, beyond anything he had imagined, and the fact that she had shaved made his brain short-circuit for a second. The vulnerability in her movement struck him, not in a way that made him feel like he needed to rush or take control, but in a way that made him feel deeply honored, grateful even, that she was letting him see this side of her. 

Did she plan this? he wondered. The thought that she had prepared for this moment, that she had been thinking about it, made his heart race even faster. His eyes traced every detail, drinking in how smooth she looked, how inviting and wet she was. His mouth went dry, and he felt a deep, primal desire stirring inside him. 

She’s so wet… The thought sent a jolt of arousal through him, and his hands itched to touch her, to feel her, but he also didn’t want to rush. The whole moment felt like something out of a dream — he couldn’t believe how lucky he was. 

"Stop staring at it," she mumbled.

Yujin blinked, snapping out of his trance. "Sorry," he murmured, lifting his gaze to meet hers. "It's just... you're so beautiful. I can't help it." 

His words were like a balm to her soul, soothing the nervousness that had settled in her chest. Wonyoung met his gaze, her eyes full of warmth and trust. She nodded slightly, feeling a surge of confidence from his kind words. Slowly, she shifted her position, allowing her legs to part just a little more. It was a small gesture, but it felt like a huge step — one she was choosing to take willingly, choosing to embrace the moment with him. 

With the sweetness of the moment still hanging in the air, Yujin slowly lowered himself, his lips brushing against her stomach as he made his way down. His heart raced with excitement, yet he moved with deliberate care, making sure every touch was gentle. His large, slightly trembling hands rested on her thighs, gently holding her open. “Tell me… if it’s too much, okay?”

She nodded, unable to speak, heart raced at the sight of him being so sweet and yet his presence sent a heat pooling low in her belly. 

He dipped his head, his warm breath grazing her, making her gasp quietly. Slowly, tentatively, he pressed the flat of his tongue against her, dragging it in one slow, deliberate lick from her entrance upward, tasting her for the first time. The sensation was electrifying. Wonyoung’s body reacted instantly, her breath catching in her throat as the sensation of his tongue on her caused her to shudder with pleasure. She couldn't help but moan softly, the feeling so new and overwhelming. It was tender yet intense, like nothing she had ever felt before, and it made her feel closer to him in a way she hadn’t imagined. 

She placed her hands over her mouth to stifle the sounds of her pleasure, feeling the heat building within her, the intimacy of the moment washing over her. She wanted more — wanted to feel more of him, wanted to dive deeper into the connection that had already begun to grow between them. 

Yujin paused, lifting his head. “Was that okay?” he asked shyly.

Her face was flushed, but Wonyoung managed to nod. “Y-yes… it’s just… it feels so… good,” she trailed off.

Encouraged, Yujin pressed his tongue to her again, this time slower, more purposeful. He dragged it upward in a firm, smooth motion, taking in everything, savoring her. 

Wonyoung couldn’t believe what she is feeling right now - the deliberate glide of his tongue sent sparks of pleasure radiating through her, each slow stroke making her body grow warmer, more sensitive. Her head tilted back against the pillows, her lips parted in soft, breathless gasps.

Yujin’s hands tightened slightly, holding her steady as his tongue swept over her pussy again and again, his movements growing a little surer, but still gentle. He dipped lower, his tongue pressing deeper, tasting her completely, each flick and press making Wonyoung tremble.

“Yujin…”

Her reactions seemed to embolden him. He shifted slightly, his lips pressing tender kisses to her inner thigh before returning to her slick heat. This time, he dragged his tongue upward with more pressure, ending the motion with a subtle swirl that made her gasp louder, her hips lifting slightly off the bed.

He hesitated for a moment, his lips hovering just over her clit as if deciding whether he should. Slowly, he leaned in, his tongue flattening again, this time moving in slow, lazy circles around her sensitive bud.

Wonyoung’s entire body tensed as a sharp jolt of pleasure coursed through her. She couldn’t believe how one simple movement of his tongue could make her thighs quiver and her mind spin.

“Oh my god…” she whispered, her voice breathy and full of disbelief. She hadn’t expected it to feel this good, hadn’t imagined her body would respond so strongly to his mouth.

Yujin’s face flushed deeper at her reaction, but he didn’t stop. He moved with a patient rhythm, his tongue alternating between soft, teasing flicks and slow, flat presses against her clit. Each movement was careful, unhurried, he wanted to savor every movement of bringing her pleasure.

Wonyoung’s thoughts spun as the pleasurable sensation lingered, her body slowly giving in to the warmth and intimacy between them. Her initial shyness faded as the comfort of Yujin’s presence and his gentle touch reassured her. Her fingers instinctively found his hair, a small, involuntary gesture of both affection and surrender to the moment. Her hips started to move, seeking more. The way his tongue circled her clit, occasionally pausing to gently suckle, had her on the edge of losing control.

“Fuck… oh my god…” Wonyoung’s words broke into a moan as he pressed his tongue against her more firmly, his shyness melting away as he found the rhythm that made her fall apart. She couldn’t believe this was happening, couldn’t believe how deeply he was affecting her. Every nerve in her body felt alive, every motion of his tongue sending her closer and closer to a peak she hadn’t realized she could experience. She  couldn’t believe she is letting Yujin lick her there.

Her climax hit her suddenly, a wave of pleasure so intense it left her gasping his name and cursing him at the same time, her thighs trembling around him. Yujin didn’t pull away, his tongue continuing to move against her, slower now, coaxing every last tremor from her.

When he finally lifted his head, his face was flushed, his lips glistening as he looked at her with wide, earnest eyes. “Did… did I do okay?” he asked softly, his voice tinged with nervousness, as though he wasn’t already completely wrecking her world.

Wonyoung could only nod, her chest heaving, her mind spinning with everything that had just happened. And when she thought it was over, Yujin leaned down again, his tongue slid over her, achingly slow. The sudden touch made her body jolt involuntarily, a soft gasp escaping her lips as the overstimulation sent another sharp of pleasure racing through her.

“Oh…” she whimpered, her voice shaky, her thighs twitching around his head.

He pulled back immediately, his shy nature returning as he glanced up at her, his cheeks flushed. “Sorry, I just… you taste so good.”

The sincerity in his words only added to the whirlwind of emotions coursing through her. Wonyoung’s hands covered her face for a moment, as if to hide from the reality of what had just happened. But even as her cheeks burned, her mind was racing.

He just licked me there… she thought, unable to fully grasp the reality of it. Yujin, the shy and sweet guy she was slowly falling for, had just done something so intimate, so raw. She couldn’t believe it. He had kissed her most private place, explored her, licked her, sucked her. And it had felt so unbelievably good. Her body still hummed with the remnants of her climax, and she couldn’t stop replaying the sensation of his tongue against her - the way he had started to slowly, tasting every part of her, the deliberate, tender way he had licked her. It was nothing like she had imagined. It was better. So much better.

How can he be so good at that? She wondered, her eyes flickering down to where he still knelt between her legs, his hair slightly mussed, his lips still wet.

Wonyoung, feeling the warmth of Yujin’s affection and the trust that had been building between them, realized that she wanted to take the next step. As she lay there, completely exposed, her thoughts drifted to how Yujin was still wearing his shorts. She had allowed herself to be vulnerable, showing him everything, and now she wanted to experience the same closeness with him. 

Her fingers gently grazed his chest as she whispered, “It’s not fair that I’m the only one like this…” She glanced down at his shorts, a shy smile crossing her lips, though her heart was racing. The desire to reciprocate, to explore Yujin as he had explored her, became stronger. 

Yujin blinked, a little surprised at her sudden shift. He had been so focused on her that he hadn’t even thought about himself. A wave of excitement rushed through him — this was something he had quietly hoped for. She’s actually doing this… for me. Her touch was tentative at first, but as she grew bolder, the sensation sent sparks through him. Yujin had imagined moments like this before, but the reality of it — Wonyoung’s soft, deliberate hands undressing him, her shy yet determined gaze — was more thrilling than anything he could have prepared for. 

He swallowed hard, his breathing a little uneven as she slid his shorts down. Finally... His mind raced, his body already reacting to the sheer intimacy of the moment. 

Wonyoung’s hands moved to his waistband, her touch tentative at first, but growing more confident as she slid the shorts down. As she revealed more of him, her breath caught in her throat, her pulse quickening at the sight. It was new, unfamiliar, but the curiosity and excitement pushed aside any lingering nervousness. Her emotions were mixed — part awe, part exhilaration, but above all, a deep sense of trust. Seeing Yujin fully bare in front of her, and the intimacy of the moment struck her deeply. 

Her gaze instinctively darted to his length, and for a second, she couldn’t quite believe what she was seeing. Oh my god… Her heart raced, her face heating up even more as she took in the sight of him. She swallowed nervously, her hands fidgeting slightly as her eyes lingered, not knowing exactly how to react. A mix of curiosity, nervousness, and a bit of excitement bubbled up inside her. He’s… bigger than I expected… The thought made her even more flustered, and she quickly averted her eyes, feeling the heat rise to her cheeks even more. Wonyoung couldn’t help but feel a bit shy, her entire body feeling exposed and sensitive now that they were both fully naked, lying beside each other in his bed. The realization that they had crossed this threshold, that there were no more barriers between them, was overwhelming in the most intimate way. 

Yujin shifted slightly beside her, glancing down at himself, then back at her, his voice soft but filled with an edge of anticipation. “Would you like to…?” he asked, the question hanging in the air, implying more than he could put into words. 

Wonyoung’s eyes flickered back down, marveling at the sight before her. She was curious - deeply curious — and her hands, almost as if they had a mind of their own, hesitantly reached out. Her fingers brushed against him at first, the heat and firmness of him startling her. Slowly, she wrapped her hand around him, feeling his pulse under her palm. 

The moment she did, Yujin jolted, a sharp intake of breath escaping his lips, and he cursed softly under his breath, the sudden reaction making Wonyoung flinch too, pulling back slightly in surprise. 

“Did I hurt you?” she asked quickly, her hand hovering uncertainly. 

Yujin chuckled softly, though his breathing was noticeably heavier. “No, no, it’s okay… Just—" He paused, trying to collect himself, "just felt… really good.” 

She bit her lip, still feeling a bit awkward and unsure. “What… what should I do?” she asked softly, her hand still trembling slightly in its tentative hold on him. 

Yujin reached down, his hand gently covering hers as he guided her. “Just like this… slowly.” His voice was low and reassuring, and his touch was gentle, helping her find the right rhythm. 

As Wonyoung moved her hand, she couldn’t help but notice how it felt different now — bigger, harder. How is that even possible? Her mind racing with a mixture of fascination and nervous excitement. Every subtle shift in her hand made her more aware of Yujin’s growing arousal, his body responding to her touch. It was as if she had some kind of new power over him, watching how his breath quickened with each movement. 

Yujin groaned again, the sound deep and almost guttural, and Wonyoung bit her lip, feeling the weight of the moment sink in further. His skin was warm beneath her palm, and she could feel him pulse with every stroke. The sensation of him growing harder, becoming more rigid under her touch, made her cheeks flush. She was completely focused on the task, her curiosity growing alongside Yujin’s arousal. 

In Yujin’s mind, it was all a blur. He couldn’t focus — could barely think — because it felt so good. Wonyoung’s slim, beautiful hands were wrapped around him, working him in ways that made his body tremble with need. Every motion she made sent jolts of pleasure straight through him, and he had to fight to keep his breathing steady. Her gentle but firm touch, her wide eyes watching him. His mind barely able to process anything beyond the sensations she was giving him. He felt a nervous thrill shoot through him. He wanted more, wanted to push her head down, but his shyness held him back. Instead, he focused on her body, his fingers tracing the curves of her breasts. The sensation was grounding, a way to distract himself from the growing pressure inside him. 

Wonyoung, meanwhile, felt her own breath hitch as Yujin’s hands returned to her. His touch sent a familiar wave of heat coursing through her body, but she couldn’t help but notice something else. Her hand, wrapped around him, was starting to feel a little tired. Does it really take this long for a man? she wondered, her mind filled with questions. She had never done anything like this before, so the idea that it might take a while hadn’t crossed her mind until now. 

She glanced up at Yujin, who was lost in the sensation of her touch, his face flushed with pleasure. His hands were on her breasts, kneading them softly, and she could tell he was close. Maybe it just takes time... she reasoned, but still, it was a curious feeling. She had imagined it might be quicker, but now she was learning.

Wonyoung, feeling a slight ache in her hand, let out a soft chuckle to herself as she switched hands, awkwardly realizing how quickly she had tired. She wasn’t sure if this was normal, but there was something almost amusing about it. Yujin didn’t seem to mind at all, his focus entirely lost in the pleasure she was giving him, his eyes closed as he savored every moment. 

Curiosity began to stir inside her, though. Yujin had used his mouth on her earlier, and she remembered how intensely good it felt. She wondered, would Yujin feel the same if she did the same for him? Could she make him feel just as amazing? 

Her heart raced as she glanced down at him, her mind filled with questions and uncertainty. Wonyoung bit her lip, hesitant for a moment, but the thought of doing something special for him, to return the intimacy they'd just shared, pushed her forward. She leaned in closer, her face just inches from him now. Yujin still had his eyes closed, lost in his own world, his breath coming in shallow gasps. 

What if I try? Without thinking too much, her tongue flicked out, brushing against the tip of his cock lightly, testing the waters. The reaction was immediate. Yujin's eyes snapped open, his body jolting in surprise, and a sharp breath escaped his lips. In his surprise, his hand, which had been resting on Wonyoung’s chest, pinched her breast a little harder than he intended — right on her nipple. He looked down at her, eyes wide with a mixture of shock and overwhelming pleasure. 

Both of them let out simultaneous groans — Wonyoung from the unexpected pinch, and Yujin from the pleasure of her touch. For a brief moment, their eyes met, wide with shock and embarrassment.

"W-Wonyoung…" he breathed, his voice ragged, completely caught off guard by her sudden move. 

She felt a rush of heat rise to her cheeks at his reaction, a little embarrassed by her boldness, but also emboldened by how much she could affect him. She glanced up at him with a nervous smile, unsure but excited at the same time, and seeing the way Yujin looked at her, she knew she was on the right path. 

Yujin, completely undone by the unexpected sensation, could hardly think straight. The softness of her tongue, the warmth of her touch — it was all too much. His hands, which had been roaming her body, froze for a second as he tried to process the wave of pleasure that surged through him. 

Encouraged by his response, Wonyoung leaned in again, this time more deliberate. Her tongue traced the tip in a slow, curious motion, savoring the salty, musky taste that was uniquely him. The sensation made Yujin groan again, his fingers brushing over her sensitive nipple.

Her body responded instantly, her breaths growing shallower but she didn’t stop - if anything, his reaction only spurred her on. She let her tongue swirl around him, teasing the sensitive ridge before pressing a soft kiss against him.

Yujin’s hands on her breast tightened slightly, squeezing her breasts more. “W-Wonyoung…” his other hand reached to brush her hair back from her face. “You… you can use your mouth… if you want to…”

His shyness caught her off guard. She nodded, her eyes locking with his, and she leaned down, opening her mouth to take him in. The warmth and weight of him against her tongue was startling at first, but she adjusted quickly, wrapping her lips around him as she moved downward, taking as much of him as she could. 

The taste of him was stronger now - salty and earthy, with a hint of something she couldn’t quiet place but found intoxicating. She closed her eyes, focusing on the way he felt in her mouth, the way he twitched slightly with every movement of her lips. 

Yujin’s hand moved to rest on her head. “Slowly,” he murmured. “Use your hand like this, use your tongue too…”

He guided her and she followed, her hand stroking him as her lips and tongue worked in tandem. Yujin’s breaths grew heavier, his groans deeper, and the sound of what she was doing filled his small room. Wonyoung couldn’t believe what she was doing - or how much she liked it. 

“Wonyoung… just like that.” His gaze locked on her as she looked up at him, her lips stretched around him, her eyes wide and full of curiosity and something more. 

As she continued, she felt him tense beneath her. His breaths grew shallow, his hips jerked slightly. “W-Wonyoung… I’m-“ before he could finish his sentence, she felt a sudden burst of warmth in her mouth.

Startled, she froze, her eyes widening in shock as the unfamiliar taste and texture hit her tongue. It was sticky, thick, and salty, and she pulled back instinctively, gasping. Some of his cum clung to her lips which she licked slowly and she blinked at him in confusion.

“Yujin!” she exclaimed, her voice high-pitched and laced with surprise. “What the…”

But Yujin was still in the throes of his release, his face flushed as he struggled to catch his breath. Seeing her hesitate, he quickly reached for her hand, guiding it back to him. 

“Don’t stop,” he placed her hand around him again, showing her to keep stroking, and Wonyoung watched in awe as more of his cum spurted out in bursts, warm and sticky against her fingers. 

Her heart raced as she realized the full weight of what she had just done. She had given Yujin an orgasm - a thought that sent a strange mixture of pride and embarrassment through her. She glanced up at him, her cheeks flaming, as he let out a satisfied groan, his head leaning back against the headboard.

His chest rose and fell rapidly. “You are so amazing…”

Wonyoung looked down at her hand and then back at him, her lips parted in confusion. “What am I supposed to do? Should I… grab a tissue or something?”

Her innocent question made Yujin chuckle softly, she was so cute. His gaze softened as he looked at her, and for a moment, the boldness returned to his eyes. “You could…” he hesitated, his cheeks flushing deeper, “lick it. Swallow it.”

Wonyoung’s eyes widened, and she froze, staring at him in disbelief. “What?”

Yujin swallowed hard. “It’s… okay. You don’t have to, but… I’d like it if you did.”

Wonyoung’s gaze flickered back to her hand, and she bit her lip, thinking. The idea made her blush even harder, but there was a part of her - the same part that had been curious enough to taste him earlier - that wanted to try. Slowly, hesitantly, she brought her fingers to her lips, her tongue darting out to taste him. 

The flavor was intense but not entirely unpleasant. She glanced at Yujin, who was watching her intently, his dark eyes filled with anticipation and awe. Emboldened by the way he looked at her, Wonyoung leaned forward, her lips brushing against the tip of him as she licked again, her tongue swirling around to gather more of his cum.

Yujin’s chest heaved, his breath hitching as he groaned softly. “Oh my god…”

She swallowed, the sensation strange but oddly satisfying, making her feel even more closer to him. She looked up at him with a small, shy smile. “Like this?”

Yujin nodded. “You are perfect.”

Her heart swelled at his words, and she continued, her tongue and lips exploring him as she cleaned him, her movements growing bolder with each passing moment. She noticed something surprising. Yujin’s cock isn’t as hard and rigid as before. Her eyes widened as she tilted her head softly, her fingers tracing along his softening length as though trying to understand it. “That’s so… fascinating.”

Yujin’s ears burned red at her fascination. “That’s normal… it happens… after you know.”

“Did I do right?”

He nodded. “The best.” He pulled her up as he guided her to lie down beside him. Their bodies still warm from the closeness they had just shared. The silence between them was comforting, soft like the cool sheets they were nestled in. Yujin’s arm draped over Wonyoung’s waist, pulling her closer as she settled her head against his chest. She could feel his heartbeat, steady and calm, a rhythm that brought her a sense of peace. 

Wonyoung let out a small sigh, her fingers tracing gentle patterns across his skin, savoring the sensation of being so close to him. Yujin’s fingers gently brushed through her hair, his touch tender, as if memorizing every strand. He pulled her even tighter, burying his face in her hair, inhaling the soft scent of her shampoo. 

“Are you okay?” 

She smiled, her lips brushing lightly against his chest. “Yeah.”

Yujin’s hand moved to cup her cheek, gently lifting her face to meet his gaze. His eyes were soft, filled with affection, and a warmth spread through her at the way he looked at her — like she was everything he needed. “I love you, Wonyoung.”

Wonyoung’s heart skipped a beat, the sincerity in his tone washing over her. She didn’t respond with words - she didn’t need to. Instead, she smiled softly, her cheeks tinged with color as she leaned into his touch. Their bare skin pressing together was both intimate and comforting, testament to how far they had come. For the first time, sleeping beside each other without anything, fully exposed and yet feeling completely safe. She closed her eyes, contented and satisfied - not just from the physical connection, but from the growing intimacy and trust between them. Yujin, too, felt a quiet joy as he held her close, his mind at ease knowing she was in his arms. 

Chapter Text

As the soft beeping of Wonyoung’s alarm went off, she stirred, her body nestled against Yujin's body. The familiar melody was a gentle reminder of reality — she had to study. Wonyoung blinked her eyes open, feeling the warmth of Yujin’s arms around her. They were wrapped up in each other, both completely at peace. She smiled to herself, turning slightly to face him. 

“Good morning.” 

Yujin’s eyes fluttered open, and he smiled sleepily, tightening his embrace. “Morning,” he murmured back, pressing a tender kiss to her forehead then to her lips in a slow, sweet kiss that quickly deepened, both of them savoring the feeling of waking up together. 

But before things could go further, Wonyoung gently pulled away, letting out a soft chuckle. “I have to study,” she said, teasingly placing a hand on his chest as if to stop him from going any further. 

Yujin let out a mock groan, laughing along with her. “You’re right,” he admitted, his voice still groggy with sleep. Wonyoung sat up, reaching for her discarded clothes on the floor, slipping them back on with a sense of practicality. As she did, she glanced over her shoulder at Yujin, still lying comfortably beneath the blankets. 

“Aren’t you getting up?” she asked as she adjusted her shirt. 

Yujin stretched lazily, pulling the blanket up around his shoulders. “It’s so cold,” he said with a sleepy grin, “I think I’m skipping the gym today. I’ll just lift weights later.” He closed his eyes again, smiling as he buried his face into the pillow. “How about one more hour of sleep? Just one… Please?” 

Wonyoung shook her head, amused by his sleepy charm. “Alright,” she said, letting out a small laugh. “One hour. But I’ll wake you up, okay? You still have to study.” 

Yujin nodded, already halfway back to sleep. “Thanks,” he mumbled. “You’re the best.” 

Wonyoung quietly slipped out of the room, leaving Yujin still curled up under the blankets. The room felt a little cooler as she padded over to the kitchen. She glanced over at the coffee machine, deciding that a cup would help her focus. As she set up a pod and pressed the button, the quiet hum of the machine filled the room. 

As the coffee brewed, her thoughts drifted back to last night. It had been... a lot. Her cheeks warmed at the memories, the intimacy they had shared still so fresh in her mind. They had explored parts of each other they hadn’t before, and for the first time, they had been completely naked together. The weight of that moment was settling in now. She’d never imagined reaching this point with Yujin so soon. 

But now that they’d done those things, what came next? Wonyoung bit her lip, thinking about the inevitable step they hadn’t crossed yet. Was it only a matter of time before they went all the way? She felt her heart race at the thought, a mix of curiosity and nerves stirring inside her. Her mind wandered further, wondering how it would feel, how he would even fit, the idea making her blush. It was strange, thrilling, and overwhelming all at once. 

The beep of the coffee machine pulled her out of her thoughts. She shook her head, trying to clear it as she grabbed the mug, taking a deep breath. Focus, Wonyoung, she scolded herself with a small, amused smile. You have finals to study for. That’s what’s important right now. She took a sip of her coffee and carried it to the dining table, her textbooks already laid out. As much as her mind wanted to linger on last night — and on Yujin — it wasn’t the time to get distracted. She had work to do. 

***

Two hours later, Wonyoung stood over Yujin, gently shaking his shoulders. He stirred, slowly opening his eyes, and the first thing he did was pout his lips toward her. 

"What are you doing?" 

"Good morning kiss," Yujin mumbled, still pouting his lips. 

Shaking her head with a soft smile, Wonyoung leaned down and kissed him gently. Yujin closed his eyes at the touch of her lips, clearly savoring the moment. When she pulled away, she tugged him up by his arms. "Come on, get up."

Yujin allowed her to pull him upright, grabbing his clothes as he stood. Wonyoung took his hand, leading him toward the kitchen and dining area. As they exited his bedroom, Yujin’s eyes widened in surprise. "Whoa…" he muttered, taking in the spread of food laid out on the table. There were scrambled eggs, sausages, and even some vegetables, and a fresh cup of coffee for him. 

"You cooked all this?" 

Wonyoung smiled as she poured him some coffee. "I cooked before waking you up, you had two hours of sleep so no slacking today."

"You’re so sweet," he said, grinning as he pulled her in for a quick hug before sitting down at the table. 

"It’s the least I can do. I’ve been staying here for two days now." 

As they began eating, Yujin, still smiling, glanced up at her and said casually, "You can stay here forever, you know." 

Wonyoung paused and looked at him, a bit taken aback by the offer. She blushed slightly and shook her head. "I’d be too shy around your parents if I did that. They’ve already helped my family a lot, especially your mom. She’s my boss, too. It would feel like… I don’t know, abusing their kindness." 

"They love you," Yujin said confidently, taking a sip of his coffee. "You know that." 

Wonyoung sighed softly, pushing her food around her plate for a moment before speaking. "I don’t want to take advantage of that, though. Besides," she added, glancing up at him with a playful smile, "we’re still students. Living together right now wouldn’t look good." 

Yujin looked down at his plate, suddenly feeling a little shy himself. He hesitated for a moment before glancing back up at her. "But… when I… um… finish college… would it be okay then?" he asked, his voice a little uncertain. "Like, would living together not be awkward anymore? You think… maybe by then…?" 

She tilted her head thoughtfully. "Maybe," she replied. "By then, we’ll both be working… It might not be so strange anymore." 

Yujin brightened at her response, his nervousness melting away as he flashed her one of his signature grins. "Good," he said, nodding with satisfaction. "Then it's a deal." 

***

It was nearly lunchtime after hours of studying, and Yujin stood in the kitchen, preparing to cook rice. Wonyoung watched him from the dining table, her eyes narrowing suspiciously as he filled the rice cooker with water. 

"Are you sure you know how to cook rice?" 

Yujin glanced over his shoulder with a raised eyebrow. "Of course, I do," he replied, but Wonyoung's doubtfulness lingered.

"Let’s see," she said, standing up and leaning against the counter, arms crossed, watching him like an investigator. 

Yujin didn’t seem as confident now, but he still went through the motions. He measured the water carefully, rinsed the rice, and set the rice cooker with a faint hum of concentration. As the cooker clicked on and he closed the lid, Wonyoung finally nodded with a small smirk. 

"Not bad." 

He turned around slightly, crossing his arms with a playful smile. "You should have a little more faith in me," he joked, leaning back slightly to nudge her shoulder. 

Wonyoung chuckled, stepping forward and wrapping her arms around his waist from behind, resting her head lightly against his back. "Sorry," she murmured. "I do have faith in you." 

He placed his hands over hers, squeezing gently. "You better," he teased softly. 

After a moment, Wonyoung pulled away and moved to the fridge. "Let’s reheat the wonstew I made yesterday," she said, pulling out the container of the homemade stew.

***

As they sat down to eat lunch, the warmth of the reheated beef stew, or "Wonstew" as Yujin affectionately called it, filled the room. The two settled into a comfortable rhythm, chatting lightly between bites. 

“You know,” Yujin started, chewing thoughtfully on a piece of meat, “I still have a hard time believing you never had a boyfriend before me.” He glanced at her with a teasing smile. “I mean, you’re so beautiful.” 

Wonyoung blushed slightly, poking at her food with her spoon. “It’s true,” she said, shrugging. “I’ve just been too busy studying and working. And honestly, I have really high standards.” 

Yujin raised his eyebrows, intrigued. “High standards, huh? What happened when you did go out with someone?” 

Wonyoung sighed, giving him a wry smile. “Whenever I did agree to go out with someone, they always turned out to be jerks. I guess I just have bad luck in that department.” 

Yujin, mid-bite, set his spoon down dramatically and grinned at her. “Well, good thing I’m not a jerk, then.” He winked. “I’m different, right?” 

Wonyoung chuckled, her eyes softening as she looked at him. “You are,” she said, more seriously now. “You’re different from anyone I’ve ever met. I’ve never trusted anyone this much before.” 

Yujin’s heart warmed at her words. He sat up a little straighter, his chest swelling with pride. “And I promise I won’t ever let you down,” he said firmly, then added playfully, “The only thing that’ll change is that I’ll take care of you better, love you better, and we’ll just keep getting happier.” 

Wonyoung’s smile deepened, her gaze full of warmth as she watched him. “You better not change,” she teased lightly, but she was dead serious.

“I won’t,” he said. “I love you, Wonyoung. I’m always going to be here for you.” 

“I know you will.” Then, something crosses Wonyoung’s mind. She looked at Yujin, her curiosity piqued. "So, what about you?" she asked, pushing her hair behind her ear. "What’s your dating history like?" 

Yujin scratched the back of his head, looking a little sheepish. “I’ve had two girlfriends before you,” he admitted casually, taking a bite of his food. 

“Did you… sleep with them?” 

He hesitated for a moment before nodding. “Yeah, with the second one, I did. I was so young when I had my first girlfriend.” 

Wonyoung paused, her interest growing. “How was your first time, then?” 

Yujin cleared his throat awkwardly, avoiding her gaze. “Well… my first time wasn’t with a girlfriend.” 

That made Wonyoung blink in surprise. She tilted her head, even more curious now. “Oh? Then who was it with?” 

Yujin’s cheeks flushed slightly as he avoided her eyes, clearly embarrassed. “Um… when I turned 18, some of my friends thought it would be funny to get me a… ‘surprise gift’ to make me a man.” 

Wonyoung narrowed her eyes in confusion at first, but as the realization dawned, she nearly choked on her food. “Wait… are you saying your first time was with a hooker?” 

Yujin nodded, clearly shy now, as he scratched his head awkwardly. “Yeah… they hired an older woman for me.” 

Wonyoung’s eyes widened, half shocked, half amused. “You’re serious?” 

Yujin gave her an awkward smile. “It wasn’t exactly what I had in mind for my first time. I mean, it was… an experience, to say the least.” 

Wonyoung couldn’t help but laugh a little, despite her surprise. “Wow, I didn’t expect that. I mean, that’s… kind of crazy.” 

Yujin grinned, relieved that she wasn’t judging him too harshly. “You’re not, like, weirded out, right?” 

Wonyoung shook her head as she glanced at him. “No, I’m not weirded out. It’s just… surprising.” She reached over, placing her hand on his. “You’re with me now, and that’s what matters.” 

As Wonyoung mulled over Yujin's confession, she couldn’t help but picture him as that awkward teenager, facing a far more experienced woman. Her mind wandered, painting a vivid image of Yujin, probably shy and fumbling at first, cheeks flushed as he tried to ask questions. She could almost hear his voice stuttering, "Uh, is this okay? What should I do next?" A small smile crept up on her lips as she pictured it. 

Of course he would ask a lot of questions, she thought, stifling a giggle. The idea of Yujin being that shy, then learning and improving step by step, made perfect sense now. No wonder he seemed to know exactly how to make her feel good. 

She imagined him nervously trying to remember everything the woman told him, trying to apply all the advice so he wouldn’t make any mistakes in the future. It was such a Yujin thing to do — turn what could’ve been an awkward situation into a learning experience. He was probably still his cute, dorky self even then. 

***

After lunch, Yujin stood up and began gathering the plates, carrying them over to the sink. Wonyoung watched him from her spot at the small dining table, a playful smile tugging at her lips. As he turned on the water, she leaned back in her chair, resting her chin on her hand. 

"You’ve been doing the dishes since I stayed here," Wonyoung teased, her eyes twinkling. "Yesterday, last night... You're really trying to get me to stay longer, aren’t you? Princess treatment and all." She raised an eyebrow, testing his reaction. 

Yujin grinned as he scrubbed the plates, not looking back at her just yet. "Maybe," he said lightly, chuckling. "I aim to make your life better. What can I say?" 

"Tempting," Wonyoung said with a teasing lilt. She loved these moments when they could joke around, the ease and comfort between them growing more natural with each day. 

Yujin rinsed the plates and put them aside to dry, wiping his hands with a towel. He turned back to her, leaning against the counter with a smirk. "Well, if you’re tempted, just know," he said, his voice dropping into a soft, teasing tone, "I’m a great partner. No drama, no stress — just a guy who’ll never give you a hard time." 

Wonyoung laughed softly, shaking her head. "You’re really selling yourself, huh?" 

Yujin shrugged, still grinning. "Just laying out the facts." He walked over to her, extending a hand to pull her up from the table, his fingers warm as they wrapped around hers. "No pressure, though," he added with a wink, pulling her close for a quick kiss on her cheek. 

"We'll see," she teased back, squeezing his hand. "But I do like the idea of never having to wash dishes again." 

Yujin laughed, leading her back into the kitchen. "Then I guess I'm doing my job right." 

***

As Yujin moved to vacuum the apartment, Wonyoung stayed seated at the dining table, quietly watching him go about his routine. It was almost amusing, seeing him so diligently cleaning up, especially considering how messy he used to be when they first met. She could still picture his old dorm, cluttered with unfinished food and clothes strewn around, the complete opposite of what she was witnessing now. 

This apartment, though — it was spotless. Yujin was genuinely taking care of the place, meticulously going over every corner with the vacuum. Wonyoung leaned her chin on her hand, silently observing him, a small smile playing on her lips. It was funny how different he seemed now, but not in a bad way. She could tell he was trying hard, and she started to think that maybe he was maturing, growing into someone more responsible. 

At first, she wondered if it was just because she was staying here. Maybe he was putting on a front, cleaning up just to impress her, making sure everything was perfect so she’d be comfortable. But then she realized — it was always like this, even before she spent the night. Every time she visited, his place was clean, organized, even cozy. 

Maybe Yujin really was maturing, growing into himself, not just for her but for his own sake. She felt a sense of warmth swell in her chest, watching him move around the apartment, focused on the task at hand. It was a simple thing, really — cleaning up after lunch — but it made her look at him in a new light. He was becoming someone who cared about his space, about how he lived. Maybe it wasn’t just a routine; maybe this was part of his growth, his effort to take care of things, including her. 

***

After studying and dinner, they cleaned up together, chatting about their day. Once the kitchen was tidied, they decided to relax by playing a game on their phones. They sat on the couch, teasing each other about their scores and laughing at their playful competitiveness. Wonyoung won the last round, and Yujin pouted in defeat, making her laugh even more. 

“Ha! KimchiEminem is no match for LoveDive.”

As the evening wore on, they eventually moved to the bed. Yujin lay beside her, already comfortable under the covers, while Wonyoung sat up with her legs crossed, flipping through the flashcards she had made for her finals. Yujin noticed how her hands trembled slightly as she shuffled the cards, her brow furrowed in concentration. He could tell she was anxious. 

Without saying a word, Yujin sat up, reached for her flashcards, and gently pulled them from her hands. Wonyoung blinked at him, surprised. 

"Yujin! I am studying!"

"I’ll quiz you. You seem stressed. Plus, I’m here to help, right?" 

She hesitated for a moment but then nodded, "Okay." 

Yujin scanned the flashcards, trying to make sense of the topics. He wasn’t an expert, but he could ask questions. He looked at one card and read aloud: "Explain the basic elements of contract law in Korea." 

Wonyoung bit her lip in thought before answering, "A contract requires an offer, mutual consent, and consideration. Both parties must have the legal capacity to enter the agreement, and the subject matter must be lawful and possible to perform." 

Yujin nodded, impressed, even though he had no idea if it was right or not. "Good job!" He leaned over to the side table and picked up a small piece of dark chocolate he had saved from earlier. "Here, you’ve earned a reward." 

Wonyoung chuckled as Yujin held up the chocolate to her lips. She took a small bite, her eyes glimmering with amusement. "Dark chocolate?" 

"Yup. It’s good for studying," he said with a playful grin. "Keeps your brain sharp." 

He picked up another card, squinting at the legal terms. "Okay, this one’s tough… Define 'negligence' in tort law." 

"Negligence occurs when someone fails to exercise the standard of care that a reasonable person would in a similar situation, causing harm to another person." 

Yujin smiled proudly, feeding her another small piece of chocolate. "You’re so smart, Wonyoung. I knew you’d get it right." 

She blushed slightly at his compliment but relaxed as they continued. Yujin kept quizzing her, flipping through the cards while she answered question after question. For each correct answer, he’d feed her a bite of chocolate, teasing her lightly when she hesitated. 

After a while, Wonyoung finally put down the flashcards and leaned back into Yujin’s chest. "Thank you," she murmured softly. “I feel much better." 

Yujin grinned, brushing a strand of hair away from her face. "Don’t worry, Wonyoung. You just needed some Yujinnie motivation, which I’m happy to provide anytime." 

They both got up to freshen up for bed, brushing their teeth and washing up quietly before heading back under the covers. 

As they settled in, Yujin pulled her into a deep kiss, his hands naturally starting to roam along her back, pulling her closer. Wonyoung responded at first, but then she gently placed her hand on his chest, breaking the kiss. 

"I want to sleep early tonight," she whispered. "We have exams, and you need rest too." 

Yujin pouted, groaning jokingly, but he nodded. "Fine, fine." He leaned his head on her shoulder, pretending to be disappointed. "But after exams…" 

Wonyoung laughed, feeling the tension of the day finally melt away. She stroked his hair gently. "I know," she whispered back. "After exams, I’m all yours." 

Yujin smirked, his eyes half-closed as he held her tighter. "I’ll hold you to that." 

***

Wonyoung sat at the library, her books and notes scattered across the table. The first day of exams were over, but the tension still lingered. Her mind, accustomed to the constant pressure of studying, was restless. She absentmindedly tapped her pen against the table, her thoughts spinning in circles. Even though the tests had ended, the nerves hadn't quite left her. She always felt this way after exams — the pressure of waiting, hoping she did well enough. 

She sighed, rubbing her temples, feeling like her brain was on the verge of overload. As she glanced around at the quiet library, her eyes landed on her phone. Yujin had promised to pick her up later, but suddenly, she didn't want to wait that long. She needed a distraction — something, anything — to shake off the stress before it consumed her. 

Wonyoung unlocked her phone and quickly typed a message to Yujin: 

"Can you come pick me up now? I think my brain's going to explode." 

She stared at the screen for a moment, then hit send, feeling a bit guilty for calling him earlier than planned. But she needed him now — his lightheartedness. Within a few seconds, her phone buzzed. 

“Oh no! Your beautiful head! On my way. Don’t let your brain explode yet 😘." 

***

Yujin arrived at the library, scanning the rows of tables and study areas, until his eyes landed on Wonyoung in one of the secluded private study sections. She looked exhausted, slumped over her books, her hair slightly disheveled from hours of intense studying. As soon as she noticed him approaching, she stood up and walked over, wrapping her arms around him in a weak hug, as if all the tension she’d been holding onto finally released the moment she saw him. 

He gently hugged her back, feeling how drained she was. “What’s wrong?” he asked softly, pulling back just enough to look at her face. His hand moved to her forehead, checking if she had a fever. 

“I’m just tired and stressed, I need my Yujinnie motivation,” Wonyoung murmured. 

Yujin smiled sympathetically and brushed a few strands of hair away from her face. “You’ve been pushing yourself too hard. Come on, let’s take a break and grab some dinner. You need to get away from these books for a bit.”

Wonyoung nodded, leaning into him slightly as she sighed. “I’m glad you’re here, Yujin.” 

Without saying a word, Yujin pressed a tender kiss on her forehead, lingering for a moment as if silently telling her that everything would be okay. He then turned to gather her books, neatly stacking them before sliding them into her bag. Slinging the bag over his shoulder, he reached for her hand and gave it a reassuring squeeze. 

***

Yujin and Wonyoung sat in a restaurant. They both had steaming bowls of ramyun in front of them, the perfect remedy for the chilly evening. Wonyoung blew softly on her spoon before taking a bite, and Yujin glanced at her, checking in. 

“How are you feeling now?” 

“Just a little bit of a headache,” she admitted before rubbing her hands together. “It’s really cold.” 

Yujin immediately reached across the table, taking her hands in his. He gently caressed them with both of his, trying to warm them up. His touch was soft but firm, the warmth from his palms spreading to her cold fingers. 

“Better?” 

She nodded, feeling comforted by his gesture. They stayed like that for a moment, her hands resting in his warmth. Then Yujin broke the silence, his voice tentative, “Do you want to sleep at my apartment again tonight?” 

Wonyoung sighed softly. “Yujin… we’ve talked about this. We need to focus on exams.” 

Yujin’s face fell slightly, his brow furrowing as he asked awkwardly, “Can’t you focus at my apartment? Did I do something wrong?” 

Wonyoung quickly shook her head, chuckling a little. “No, no, Yujin, you didn’t do anything wrong. It’s just that… your apartment is so cozy that whenever I’m there, I just want to lie down with you all the time. And that thought is… distracting.” 

His face lit up with relief, a playful grin spreading across his face. “So I’m not the problem? It’s the coziness?”

“Yeah, exactly.” 

After they finished their dinner, Yujin stood up, saying, “I’m just going to grab something from the pharmacy real quick. Be right back.” 

A little while later, after they left the restaurant, Yujin walked her back to her dorm in the freezing weather. The wind bit at their skin, and their breaths turned to visible puffs in the cold night air. As they reached the entrance, Yujin slipped Wonyoung’s bag off his shoulder and handed it to her, along with a small pharmacy bag. 

“What’s this?” Wonyoung asked, peering into the bag curiously. 

“Medicine for your headache… and hot packs. You said you were cold.” 

Wonyoung’s eyes softened with appreciation. “Thank you, Yujin,” she said quietly. She stepped closer to him, pulling him into a hug. “Text me when you get back to your apartment, okay?” 

“I will,” Yujin said, pulling back and looking at her with a reassuring smile. They said their goodbyes, and Wonyoung watched as Yujin walked away, shivering from the cold as he made his way back to his apartment, his hands buried deep in his pockets. 

***

Wonyoung lay in her bed, staring at the ceiling after hours of studying. The room was quiet, except for the soft breathing of Liz and Giselle, who were already fast asleep in their beds. She had texted Yujin goodnight earlier, but now, an hour later, she couldn’t seem to settle into sleep. Her own bed, which usually felt comfortable, now seemed uninviting, and the pillow she was hugging couldn’t provide the warmth Yujin’s body had when she was at his apartment. 

She shifted, trying to find a comfortable position, but no matter how she turned, it wasn’t working. She shook her head in frustration, telling herself to stop thinking about Yujin and focus on resting. But another hour passed, and she checked the time again — it was 1 AM, and she was still wide awake. 

Unable to stand the restlessness any longer, Wonyoung grabbed her phone and typed a message to Yujin. 

Wonyoung: Are you still up? 

At first, there was no response, and she almost regretted sending the text. Yujin is probably snoring. But after a few minutes, her phone lit up with a reply. 

Yujin: Yeah, still awake. What’s wrong? 

Wonyoung smiled to herself, feeling relieved that he was still up. 

Wonyoung: I can’t sleep. 

There was a short pause before Yujin replied again. 

Yujin: Want me to sing you a lullaby? 

She laughed softly at his playful suggestion, shaking her head at how he always managed to make her smile, even when she was feeling frustrated. But at the same time, she was curious. She knew Yujin was into music, always playing instruments, but she had never actually heard him sing. 

Wonyoung: I’ve never heard you sing before. 

A moment later, her phone started to ring. Surprised, she quickly plugged in her earphones and answered the call, her voice low so she wouldn’t wake her friends. 

“Hello?” she whispered softly. 

On the other end, she heard Yujin chuckle. “Hey,” he said, his tone teasing but gentle. “Why are you whispering?” 

“I don’t want to wake Liz and Giselle,” Wonyoung replied with a quiet laugh. “Why are you still awake?” 

Yujin sighed softly, his voice dropping to a more serious note. “I guess… I got used to having you beside me. The apartment feels a little empty without you.” 

She hadn’t expected him to say that, but it made her feel less alone, knowing he was having trouble sleeping without her, too. 

“I feel the same,” she admitted. “My bed doesn’t feel as cozy anymore. And… I miss you.” 

There was a pause on the other end, and then Yujin’s voice came through, gentle and soothing. “I miss you too, Wonyoung.” 

They stayed like that for a moment, just listening to each other breathe, the quiet of the night wrapping around them like a blanket. Then Yujin spoke again, his tone playful. “Want me to sing so you fall asleep?” 

Wonyoung couldn’t resist teasing him a little. "What if the weather gets worse, though?" she asked playfully, imagining the cold wind outside. 

Yujin chuckled on the other end. "We might have a snow storm, who knows?" 

Wonyoung smiled, leaning back against her pillow. "Maybe you should just come over and pick me up then," she teased, knowing it was far too late for that now. 

"Do you want to sleep at my place tonight?" 

Wonyoung sighed, feeling a bit tempted but shaking her head. "It’s too late, Yujin. And it’s freezing outside. I don’t want you walking in this cold." 

“No cold weather can stop me. “I’ll do anything for you.” 

Her heart fluttered a bit at his words, and she couldn’t help but smile. “You’re so sweet, but…” she trailed off, suddenly hearing the faint sound of him sniffling. “Wait, are you catching a cold? Turn up the heater, Yujinnie, I can hear your runny nose.” 

Yujin laughed, trying to brush it off. "I'm fine, really. But you know what would keep me even warmer? Your naked body pressed against me. Much warmer. Much more relaxing." 

Wonyoung felt her face heat up at his cheeky comment, and she rolled her eyes. “Soon, maybe,” she said teasingly. “But for now… where’s my song?” 

“Alright, alright. I’ll sing you the song I wrote recently… for you.” 

"You wrote a song for me?" 

“Yeah, I wrote a song for you to enter that contest I told you about,” her heart skipped a beat. She hadn’t really taken him seriously before, not because she didn’t believe in him, but because she hadn’t given it much thought. Now, knowing the song was about her, her curiosity piqued. Her initial indifference faded, replaced by excitement. 

“It’s really about me?” 

“Yeah, it’s short, simple,” Yujin said with a small cough, preparing his voice. 

Wonyoung adjusted her position on the bed, adjusting her earphones more as she waited, anticipation swirling in her chest. The sound of Yujin’s voice came through the phone, deep and warm, and as he began singing, her world felt like it slowed down just to listen to him. 

[inspired by nothing by bruno major]

Track suits and notebooks
Study for two
We’ll turn off our phones
And review what is due
You’ll quiz me on notes
And I'll act confused
But really, I’m focused
On just watching you
There aren’t many moments
I’d honestly say
I’m okay just pulling through
But there’s nothing
Like doing nothing
With you 

Wonyoung couldn’t help but smile, her lips curling up at how perfectly the lyrics captured their dynamic. The simple, cute moments they shared together — like Yujin pretending to be confused on his notes while secretly just watching her — felt so real in the song. Her heart fluttered with every word, and she found herself sinking deeper into the warmth of his voice. There was something magical about hearing him sing about their quiet moments, and it made her feel a warmth spreading through her chest.

She didn’t just listen to the lyrics — she felt them. The soft intimacy, the unspoken connection they shared during those times of just being together. It made her realize how deeply she enjoyed those simple moments with him. She wasn’t even aware of how much she cherished those nights studying, or even just sitting beside him, until Yujin had put them into words. She felt a new wave of fondness for him, like something inside her was shifting.

Late-night discussions
We lose track of time
Have I told you lately
I’m glad you’re finally mine
You’ll quiz me economics
For the 13th time
I’ll say “It's easy”
Then you'll catch me sighing
We’ll make out on the couch
Or in our room, just hanging out
But there’s nothing
Like doing nothing
With you 

Her heart swelled as he sang. His voice, so effortlessly deep and beautiful, wrapped around her like a warm blanket on a cold night. Each line seemed to echo the moments they shared — his sighs when he didn’t understand something, their late-night talks, the way they would just cuddle or kiss without a care in the world. The simplicity of their relationship, the way it felt like nothing and everything at the same time, was perfectly captured in Yujin’s song. 

You could be teasing me softly
In my T-shirt, you’re wearing
With your lips close to mine
Who needs words?
We’ve got our time 
But tonight in my apartment
With your head on my chest
Who needs space?
We've got this bed
'Cause there's nothing
Like doing nothing
With you
Mmm 
No, there's nothing
Like doing nothing
With you 

Wonyoung felt like she was falling deeper into something she hadn’t fully realized before. Maybe it was her growing love, or maybe it was something that felt even more powerful — a sense of home. Yujin wasn’t just a distraction or comfort; he was starting to feel like a part of her, in the way his presence soothed her, the way his voice made her feel safe, the way his small, thoughtful actions filled her heart with warmth. 

By the time he finished, she was left in awe. Her heart raced, her mind full of him, and her chest felt like it might burst from the overwhelming feeling growing inside her. 

“It’s done,” Yujin said with a light laugh, breaking the quiet between them. “So… what do you think?” 

Wonyoung smiled, her voice soft and full of affection. “I love it,” she admitted. “It’s… really sweet. The lyrics, your voice… all of it.” 

“You really like it?” Yujin asked, sounding a bit shy.

“I do,” she replied, her heart feeling lighter. “Does it have instruments, or was it just your voice?” 

“Just a guitar.”

“I want to hear it in person.” 

Yujin chuckled softly on the other end. “For sure. Next time, I’ll play it just for you.” 

Wonyoung bit her lip, her heart still fluttering from his song, her mind racing with thoughts of how lucky she was to have someone like Yujin in her life. And as she closed her eyes, she couldn’t stop thinking about how deeply she was falling for him, without even realizing it before tonight. She stayed quiet for a moment until Yujin spoke again.

"Did you get bored of my voice?" 

"No... I love it." 

He chuckled, a little relieved. "Are you sleepy now?" 

"A bit," she admitted, her eyes starting to feel heavy after the emotional weight of the evening. 

"You should sleep," Yujin said gently. "You’ll wake up early to study again, right?" 

"I'll try," Wonyoung replied. After a beat of silence, she asked, "Can you stay on the phone with me until I fall asleep?" 

"Of course." 

"Keep singing... anything," Wonyoung mumbled, her words already starting to blur from drowsiness. 

"I will. Goodnight." 

"Goodnight." 

"I love you." 

Wonyoung smiled, clutching her blanket tighter. A part of her wanted to say it back, to tell him she felt the same. The words sat on her tongue, but she held them back. She didn’t want to say it over the phone, not like this. It felt too precious, too important to just throw out without looking into his eyes, without being able to touch him, to feel the weight of her own heart. Saying it over a phone call just didn’t feel right. Not yet. 

She closed her eyes, thinking about how she would want to say it someday, and in what moment it would feel perfect. 

As Yujin’s voice softly began singing again, Wonyoung let herself sink into the comfort of his melodies. The sound of his deep, calming voice — it was like a warm lullaby, drawing her into peace. Slowly, she drifted into sleep, holding onto the sound of his voice, knowing that with him, she will always be okay, just like this.

[I never wanna lose you by teqkoi and snow]

So hold me tight tonight, our souls are intertwined
We're losing sleep but that's fine
And kiss my skin
I can hear the wind sing us a lullaby 
I never wanna lose you
No matter what we go through
I never wanna lose you
No matter what we go through 
So hold on tight for the ride
I'll love you for the rest of my life 

***

Wonyoung woke up with a heavy sigh, her body tired and aching from the lack of sleep. She had barely gotten three hours, tossing and turning before Yujin’s soothing voice had finally lulled her into a restless slumber. Even though she slept, it didn’t feel nearly enough. The weight in her head felt like a constant pressure, and she rubbed her eyes, trying to shake off the grogginess. She was grateful for Yujin, knowing that without his song and calming words, she might not have slept at all. 

Liz was already stirring, moving about quietly as she grabbed her things to head to the living room to study. Giselle, on the other hand, stretched in her bed and lazily muttered, “I’m making coffee, want some?” 

“No thanks, I didn’t get enough sleep,” Wonyoung replied. She just didn’t feel like herself. Giselle shuffled off to the kitchen, leaving Wonyoung alone in the room. 

***

The sun had barely risen when Wonyoung met Yujin for a quick breakfast, they walked to a small café near campus. Yujin, ever the gentleman, reached for her backpack without asking and slung it over his shoulder. He immediately noticed the weight of it, heavier than usual.

"What's in here? Bricks?" 

Wonyoung, always in a hurry, always stressing over time and deadlines, gave him a small, tired smile. "Books. Lots of books." 

"Must be one of those days," he said, shaking his head lightly. Even though she was always busy and anxious about her schedule, Yujin made sure they ate together whenever possible, even if it was just for a few stolen minutes in the morning or lunch. It had become their little ritual. He knew how much she tended to neglect her meals when she was stressed, and making sure she ate on time had become his unspoken responsibility. It was one of the small things Wonyoung was deeply grateful for. 

As they settled into a booth with their breakfast, Yujin carefully placed her heavy backpack on the seat beside him. He watched as Wonyoung hurriedly unwrapped her sandwich, already looking a little frazzled, her mind clearly on her studies. He reached across the table, tapping her hand lightly, catching her attention. 

"Take a breath. We’ve got time." 

Wonyoung paused for a moment, letting his words sink in before taking a small bite of her food. She chewed quietly, appreciating how Yujin was always her little reminder to slow down, to take care of herself when she often forgot. 

"Hey," Wonyoung said after a few moments. "Is it okay if I stay at your place tonight?" 

Yujin was in the middle of sipping his coffee and nearly choked, surprised by her sudden question. He quickly set his cup down and wiped his mouth, eyes wide. "Of course," he replied, a little thrown off by her asking. "You don’t have to ask, Wonyoung. You can stay anytime. It’s your place too." 

Wonyoung looked relieved at his response, a small smile tugging at her lips as she finished another bite of her sandwich. "My bag’s already packed."

Yujin’s expression shifted as realization dawned on him. That’s why her backpack was chunky. It wasn’t just textbooks — it was her clothes, too. He let out a soft chuckle, his gaze warm as he looked at her. "That explains it," he said, grinning as he reached for his coffee again. "You’re always so prepared." 

Wonyoung felt a flutter in her chest as she watched him smile at her like that, like she was his whole world. Yujin’s small gestures of care — making sure she ate, carrying her heavy books, and now welcoming her to stay whenever she needed — meant more to her than she could ever express. There was a comfort in knowing that no matter how hectic her life got, Yujin was always there, making things just a little easier. 

***

After another day of exams, Wonyoung stepped out of her classroom, feeling the weight of exhaustion settle heavily on her shoulders. She hadn’t gotten much sleep, her mind tangled with law terms and essays, and now, the burden of the exams themselves was starting to wear her down. 

As soon as she walked out, she spotted Yujin waiting for her just outside the door, his familiar grin bringing an instant wave of warmth and relief. Liz and Giselle were with her, equally worn out, but their faces lit up when Yujin surprised them with a paper bag full of bungeoppang, the warm, fish-shaped pastries steaming through the bag. 

“Hey, how did it go?” Yujin asked as he handed the bag to Liz and Giselle, offering them some. They eagerly took a few pastries, their tired faces brightening at the treat.

“Don’t ask,” Liz groaned with a half-smile, already munching on her bungeoppang. "I just want this exam week to be over." 

“Same here,” Giselle added, sighing deeply. “I’m already mentally checked out.” 

While they chatted, Wonyoung silently leaned into Yujin, her body slumping against him as if transferring her weariness onto him. Yujin instantly felt the shift in her energy, his playful expression softening as she rested her head on his shoulder. Without a word, he gently slid her bag and books off her shoulder, carrying them for her as she clung to him for support. 

Yujin’s arm instinctively wrapped around Wonyoung’s waist, pulling her closer as they walked together, her small frame leaning into him for comfort. “You okay?” he whispered softly, noticing how pale she looked.

“I’m just tired,” she mumbled. Her face nuzzled into his shoulder, and Yujin gave her a reassuring squeeze. 

Liz and Giselle, munching happily on their bungeoppang, waved goodbye as they parted ways. "Thanks for this, Yujin! Lifesaver!" Liz called out. 

"Yeah, thanks! See you guys later!" Giselle added before they walked off. 

As the two disappeared down the hallway, Yujin turned his full attention back to Wonyoung, his brow furrowed with concern. "Do you want to go to the library again?" he asked, knowing she had been practically living there for the past few days to study. 

Wonyoung shook her head weakly, her hand clutching the fabric of his jacket as she closed her eyes briefly. “I want to rest first…” she admitted, her voice soft and drained. 

“Okay,” Yujin replied. Without another word, he shifted his hold on her, guiding her out of the building. They walked slowly, Yujin supporting her as they made their way back to his place. His arm stayed firmly around her, protecting her from the cold as they moved through the campus. 

He could feel how tired she was, how much the exams had taken out of her, and all he wanted was to make her feel better. As they neared his apartment, he pressed a soft kiss to the top of her head, hoping the simple gesture would bring her some comfort.

"Let’s get you some rest," he murmured, leading her inside with quiet care, ready to take care of her like he always did.

***

Wonyoung emerged from the bathroom, her face looking a little more flushed than usual. She rubbed her temples gently as she sat down beside Yujin on the couch. “It’s my first day of my period this month,” she muttered, her voice slightly tired. “No wonder I’ve been feeling so off.” She paused, her expression shifting to slight concern. "But I forgot to bring extra pads... I only have the one I’m using now." 

Yujin, who had been lounging on the couch, immediately stood up. "I’ll go buy some for you."

Wonyoung blinked in surprise, her eyes widening as she stared at him. "You... will?" She sounded a little incredulous. "I mean... I can go out. You’re a guy. Most guys wouldn’t even think about buying pads for a girl. Plus, it’s so cold outside." 

Yujin shrugged, his lips curving into a soft smile. "It’s no big deal. What’s a little cold compared to making sure you’re comfortable? I will go out alone," he replied, brushing off her concern. "You need them, right? I can get dinner too so you don’t have to cook or anything, you should just rest." 

***

At the pharmacy, however, Yujin quickly realized he might have underestimated the task at hand. He stood in the feminine care aisle, staring at the rows of pads with wide eyes. There were so many different brands, sizes, and variations — some with wings, some without, extra absorbent, night-time, ultra-thin. His face grew redder by the second as he felt the curious eyes of other women in the aisle occasionally glancing at him. 

Women nearby glanced at him curiously, and he felt the heat rising to his face as he awkwardly pretended to examine a box of cough drops before finally pulling out his phone and calling Wonyoung. 

"Hey, um… which one do I get?" he asked, trying to sound casual even though he could feel his cheeks burning. "There are like… a million options here." 

Wonyoung chuckled softly on the other end, amused by the situation. “Get the medium size with wings,” she instructed. 

Yujin blinked. "Wings?" he muttered, immediately picturing something ridiculous — pads with literal wings like some sort of bizarre costume accessory. He quickly shook the image out of his head, embarrassed even though no one could hear his thoughts. His eyes scanning the shelves in confusion. He squinted at the packages until his eyes landed on one that had "with wings" written on it. "Oh, got it!" he said, a sense of victory in his voice as he grabbed the right pack. He exhaled in relief, tossing the package into his basket. "Alright, I’ll be back soon with dinner, too," he said, smiling to himself, glad he could help her out — even if it meant braving the feminine products aisle. 

“You’re the best. Thank you.” 

***

When Yujin returned, he was carrying a large bag with chicken rice porridge, Wonyoung’s napkins, and some medicine for her cramps. He stepped into the living room quietly, seeing her lying on the couch with her arm draped over her eyes. The sight of her looking so exhausted tugged at his heart. 

“Hey,” Yujin said softly, setting the bag down and kneeling beside her. “How are you feeling?” 

Wonyoung lifted her arm slightly, peeking at him with a tired smile. “Cramps,” she muttered. 

Yujin felt a wave of guilt hit him. Exams were already stressful enough, and now she had to deal with the pain of her period on top of it. It felt unfair, and he wished he could take her discomfort away. “I bought you medicine,” he said, his voice full of concern. “I also got some chicken rice porridge. You don’t have to get up; I’ll bring everything to you.” 

He stood up and brought the food over to the coffee table, making sure everything was within her reach so she could stay lying down. As he set it all up, Wonyoung watched him with a soft expression, touched by how thoughtful he was. 

“You’re spoiling me,” she teased, feeling grateful. “Thank you, Yujin. You always know what to do.” 

Yujin chuckled lightly, his cheeks flushing slightly at her words. “It’s nothing,” he said, sitting down beside her. “Just want to make sure you’re okay. Exams are tough enough, and now you have this to deal with.” 

After they ate, Yujin insisted on cleaning the dishes. Wonyoung tried to protest, but he waved her off, heading to the sink. 

Once Yujin finished, he came back to the couch, where Wonyoung was lying down again. He lifted her feet gently to sit beside her, then placed them on his lap. Without saying a word, he began massaging her feet and calves.

“Mm,” Wonyoung hummed contentedly. “I’ll just set an alarm for tomorrow to study.” 

“Yeah, sounds good. You should rest up.” 

As the hours passed, they eventually made their way to bed. Yujin had gone to the bathroom to grab a hot compress, and when he returned, Wonyoung was already nestled under the blankets. He handed her the compress, and she grabbed it eagerly, sighing in relief as the warmth soothed her cramps. 

“My back still hurts.” 

“Do you want me to massage it?” 

Wonyoung nodded. “Yeah… but just slow and gentle, okay?” 

Yujin shifted closer to her, carefully placing his hands on her back, massaging her in tender, slow strokes. As he worked out the tension in her muscles, Wonyoung suddenly spoke. 

“No wonder I was so... um.. feeling some heat last week,” she said, her voice muffled in the pillow. 

Yujin blinked in surprise, his hands pausing for a moment. “Huh? What do you mean?” 

Wonyoung let out a sleepy chuckle. “It happens. Before I get my period, I always have cravings... and I get more aroused than usual.” 

Yujin’s mind whirled for a second, trying to process this new information. That’s... good to know, he thought, making a mental note of it. It seemed important, especially for their intimacy. He continued massaging her back, but he was distracted now.

“So,” he started cautiously, “does this happen every month? Like, right before?” 

Wonyoung laughed softly. “Yeah, pretty much. Why? You’re gonna track my cycle now?” 

Yujin’s face turned red, and he chuckled, realizing how eager he sounded. “I mean… it’s probably useful to know,” he said, scratching the back of his neck. “You know, for... the future…”

Wonyoung turned her head slightly to look at him, amusement clear in her eyes. “You’re seriously asking about my period dates now?” 

Yujin squirmed awkwardly, rubbing the back of his neck. “Well... you know,” he stammered, “I just thought it’d be good to be prepared... for your cravings, cramps, and, uh... mood swings.” 

Wonyoung narrowed her eyes at him, suspicious. “That’s it?” 

Yujin froze for a second, then cleared his throat. “Well, um... I mean... it might also be helpful, you know, when... we, uh... start having sex.” 

Wonyoung burst into laughter. “I knew it!” she said, playfully punching his arm.  

Yujin blushed, feeling a little embarrassed but also relieved that she wasn’t mad. Before he could say anything else, Wonyoung grabbed her phone and started typing something. A few moments later, she looked up and said, “Here, download this app. Giselle recommended it to me.” 

She shared the app with Yujin, and he stared at his phone, grinning. “Oh wow, you’re really sharing this with me?” 

Wonyoung rolled her eyes and playfully shoved his head. “Yeah, yeah. I know you’re looking forward to it.” 

“Well, aren’t we going to do it soon?” 

Wonyoung raised an eyebrow, smirking. “Yeah, but right now, I have my period, and we still have exams.” 

“After exams, then?” 

Wonyoung looked smug as she replied, “Maybe. Now, keep massaging my back.” 

Yujin’s hands went back to work, but inside, his mind was racing. He could hardly believe it. His heart was pounding with excitement, and he suddenly felt like he had something very special to look forward to after this stressful exam period. 

He had to focus on the moment though. Stay cool, Yujin. Focus on the massage... but after exams... what the fuck. 

As Yujin’s hands moved across Wonyoung’s back, he suddenly had an idea. Feeling playful and maybe a bit emboldened by their earlier conversation, his hands slowly roamed under her shirt, fingertips grazing her skin gently. Wonyoung didn’t seem to mind at first, relaxed and content under his touch. But then, Yujin shifted his hands higher, and without thinking much, he lifted her shirt slightly and cupped her breast. 

Wonyoung immediately tensed, her body freezing under his hand. She turned her head slightly to glance back at him, eyes wide in surprise. “Yujin... what are you doing?” 

Yujin, realizing his bold move might not have been as smooth as he thought, felt his heart skip a beat. “Uh, I thought… you know, maybe it’d help you relax?” He sounded more uncertain than confident. 

Wonyoung sighed and turned her head back to him, a teasing smile forming on her lips. "My breasts are too sensitive right now, Yujin," she said playfully, then lightly smacked him on the head. "Not tonight." 

Yujin winced, rubbing the spot where she smacked him, and gave her an apologetic grin. "Sorry, sorry, I got a little carried away." 

She shook her head. "Yeah, I noticed. Just hold me close, okay? And let’s just sleep."

Chapter Text

Wonyoung stirred in bed, slowly waking to the warmth of Yujin's arms wrapped around her. Her body felt better now, the sharp pangs of yesterday’s cramps eased, replaced by relief. As she lay there, snug against him, she realized how right it had been to stay the night at Yujin's place, even though it wasn’t the weekend. It wasn't just the physical coziness of being wrapped in his arms, but the mental ease, the sense of peace that settled over her whenever she was with him.

She turned slightly, careful not to wake him, and looked at his sleeping face. He looked so peaceful, his features relaxed in a way that made her heart swell with affection. Wonyoung smiled softly to herself, thinking about how much easier everything had felt since Yujin had entered her life. Whether it was the little things like making sure she ate or the bigger things like supporting her through stressful exams, he had this way of making life less overwhelming for her. 

Without thinking, she leaned in and pressed a gentle kiss to his forehead. Yujin didn’t stir, his breathing still steady, but Wonyoung stared for a moment, just watching him. There was something about the way he made her feel — safe, emotionally and physically. Her safe space. She hadn’t realized how much she needed that until she found it in him. 

***

Wonyoung sat at the table, flipping through pages of notes, her hands trembling slightly. The anxiety of the upcoming exams had settled deep in her chest, making it hard to focus. Her breathing was shallow, and every time she tried to concentrate, her thoughts raced with doubt. She bit her lip, overwhelmed. 

Yujin, who had been quietly watching her from the couch, noticed the tension building in her shoulders, the way she was gripping her pen too tightly. He got up, walked over, and gently pulled the stack of books from the table. Wonyoung blinked up at him in confusion as he turned her chair to face him. 

“Hey, relax,” Yujin said softly, placing his hands on her shoulders and kneeling to her eye level. “You’ve got this.” 

Wonyoung opened her mouth to protest, but before she could, Yujin leaned in and wrapped his arms around her, pulling her into a hug. She stiffened for a moment, still trapped in her anxious thoughts, but the warmth of his embrace started to ease the tightness in her chest. 

“Breathe with me,” Yujin whispered, resting his chin on her shoulder. He started taking slow, deep breaths, guiding her to do the same. After a few moments, Wonyoung found herself following his rhythm, her heartbeat gradually slowing down. 

After a minute or two, Yujin pulled back just enough to look at her. “You’ve been studying for weeks. You know this stuff like the back of your hand. Don’t let the nerves get to you.” 

Wonyoung sighed, feeling a little lighter but still unsure. “But what if I—” 

“No ‘what ifs,’” Yujin cut her off gently, taking her hands in his. “You’re going to walk in there and ace it, just like you always do. You’ve worked hard. You’re ready. Trust yourself.” 

Wonyoung stared at him for a moment, his confidence in her making her feel steadier. She leaned forward, hugging him again, this time tighter, resting her head against his chest. “Thank you,” she whispered. “I’m really happy you’re here.” 

Yujin smiled, rubbing her back reassuringly. “Anything for you,” he murmured softly, pressing a light kiss to the top of her head. “You’re gonna crush it, trust me.” 

***

During the grueling duration of exams, Wonyoung found herself spending more time at Yujin's apartment than her own dorm, until eventually, most of her things had made their way into his space. What started as a casual sleepover to ease her stress had turned into a full-on routine, where Yujin's place became her temporary home the whole exam week. The small apartment, though simple, had become their shared sanctuary — her textbooks and notes scattered on his desk, her clothes mixed with his in the closet, and even her skincare products neatly arranged in the bathroom. 

Yujin, true to his word, had been the perfect “roommate” and even more so, the most supportive boyfriend she could ask for. He ensured she was comfortable, always making sure she ate well, studied in peace, and had everything she needed. Whether it was late-night study sessions with cups of coffee, spontaneous snack runs to lift her spirits, or quiet moments where they’d just lie on the couch together, Yujin made it easier for her to handle the stress of exams. 

***

As Wonyoung, Giselle, and Liz exited the classroom, the tension from their final exams was evident in their faces. Wonyoung felt the weight of stress in her shoulders, but the moment she spotted Yujin standing by the door with a big smile on his face, holding a bouquet of flowers, all of that tension seemed to dissolve. 

Wonyoung’s face lit up instantly, and without hesitation, she rushed toward him and wrapped her arms around his waist, hugging him tightly. The warmth of his embrace and the scent of the fresh flowers made her feel like she could finally breathe again. 

"Finally," she whispered against his chest, her voice full of relief. Somehow, just being with him made everything better. 

Yujin chuckled softly, wrapping his arms around her in return. "Hey, you. How was the exam?"

Before Wonyoung could answer, Liz chimed in, walking up with a grin. “Let’s not even talk about it! We should just celebrate — it’s the last day!” she declared with a dramatic sigh of relief. 

Giselle nodded in agreement, laughing. “Yes, please, no more exam talk!” 

Yujin smiled and handed the bouquet of flowers to Wonyoung. “These are for you,” he said softly. “You’ve worked so hard.” 

Wonyoung’s heart fluttered as she took the flowers, smiling up at him. “Thank you,” she said, her cheeks glowing with appreciation. Without missing a beat, she handed him her bag in exchange. “And this is for you,” she added playfully. 

Yujin laughed as he took her bag without complaint, holding it in one hand while still keeping an arm around Wonyoung with the other. “Fair trade.” 

***

At a samgyupsal restaurant, the air was filled with the mouth-watering smell of sizzling meat on the grill. Yujin, Wonyoung, Giselle, Liz, and a few others were sitting around a table, cooking their meal while enjoying some drinks. The vibe was relaxed, full of laughter and relief now that their exams were finally over. 

Wonyoung flipped some pork belly on the grill, her face still showing signs of tiredness from the intense study sessions, but a light smile crept across her lips. Yujin, who sat beside her, handed her a small shot of soju. 

"Here," Yujin said, clinking his glass with hers, "you deserve this after surviving those exams." 

"You have no idea. Being on a scholarship means I need higher grades. Every exam feels like the end of the world." 

Yujin nodded sympathetically. "At least you're smart enough to handle it. Meanwhile, I just hope I finally pass all my subjects this time," he joked, rubbing the back of his neck with a playful grin. "I’ve failed at least one subject every semester so far." 

Giselle laughed at Yujin’s comment, taking a bite of her lettuce-wrapped meat. "We all know you'll be fine, Yujin. But seriously, I’m so ready for winter break. I can’t wait for Christmas." She looked around the table with a bright smile. "We should throw a Christmas party! Something fun before we all get busy again." 

"That sounds like a great idea!" Liz chimed in, raising her glass. "Let's plan something festive, with food, drinks, maybe even a secret Santa!" 

***

Back at Yujin’s apartment, after a long day of celebrating the end of exams, Yujin noticed how tired Wonyoung still seemed, despite the excitement of being done with the stress of finals. He pulled her coat off gently, hanging it by the door as she slid off her shoes, grateful to be back in the apartment. 

“How about a hot bath?” Yujin suggested, watching her eyes light up at the idea. "You’ve been stressed these past few days, and I think it’ll help you relax." 

Wonyoung hesitated for a brief moment, the thought of sharing a bath with Yujin bringing a new wave of awareness to their growing intimacy. It was the first time they would do something like this but as she stood there, looking into his eyes, she found herself reassured.

Yujin’s gaze was soft, kind, and filled with warmth. He had never made her feel rushed or pressured. His gentle approach to everything — whether it was their conversations, how he handled her stress, or even how he massaged her feet after a long day — made her feel relaxed. She knew that if there was anyone she could be completely at ease with, it was him. 

There was a comfort that wrapped around her, not just from his words but from the way he was always there for her — no questions, no judgments. Stripping down and sharing such an intimate moment felt natural. She realized that she shouldn’t have to overthink it.

Wonyoung nodded, her exhaustion melting into a soft smile. “That sounds perfect.” 

Moments later, they both slipped into the warm, steaming water. Yujin sat behind Wonyoung, his arms gently wrapped around her, holding her close as she rested her head on his shoulder. The heat of the water soothed their muscles, while the dim light from the bathroom created a peaceful, intimate ambiance. 

They sat in comfortable silence for a while, the sound of the water gently lapping against the sides of the tub, before Yujin broke the quiet. "Do you and your parents have any winter holiday plans?" 

Wonyoung sighed softly. "We used to go back to the province to visit my relatives, but ever since I started college, it's just been my parents going. I usually stay behind for work or spend New Year's with Giselle. Liz goes back to Jeju during the holidays." 

Yujin hummed in understanding, gently running his fingers over her arms. "We usually stay home during the winter holidays. My parents love having the family together." 

Wonyoung tilted her head up slightly to look at him. "That sounds nice. Simple. Cozy." 

"It is," Yujin smiled down at her, resting his chin lightly on her head. "You should come spend it with us this year. You and your family. 

Wonyoung smiled, feeling a warmth spread in her chest that wasn’t just from the bathwater. "I’d like that. My parents would, too. It sounds nice... being together for Christmas." 

Yujin’s hold on her tightened a little as he whispered, “You’re always welcome at our house. And my in-laws.” 

She smiled, letting the comfort of the moment settle around her. The warmth of the bath, the closeness of Yujin — it all made her feel happy. 

"I don’t think I could’ve gotten through the exams without you," she said quietly. She turned her head slightly to look at him, her eyes soft with gratitude. "You’ve been my personal stress reliever." 

Yujin grinned at her words as he responded with mock pride. "Well, I can always be like that for you, no problem." Then he leaned forward, pressing a kiss against her shoulder, then slowly trailing his lips to her neck. The sensation sent a shiver down Wonyoung's spine, her body relaxing even more into his. Her skin tingled under his touch as he kissed her softly, his lips lingering just long enough to make her feel the heat of the moment. 

Wonyoung turned in the water, her eyes locking with Yujin's as she faced him. The moment felt intimate, their connection deeper than words could express. Without hesitation, she closed the distance between them, her lips meeting his in a slow, tender kiss. 

As their kiss deepened, the warmth of the water was nothing compared to the growing heat between them. Wonyoung’s hands slid up to cradle Yujin's face, their lips moving together in perfect rhythm, each kiss slower but more intense than the last. Yujin’s hands roamed gently over her back, pulling her closer, as if he couldn't get enough of her. 

Breaking the kiss, Yujin’s lips trailed down her neck again, this time slower, more deliberate. Wonyoung’s breath hitched as he kissed along her collarbone, his mouth warm and soft against her skin. She leaned into him, her heart racing as she felt his lips travel lower. 

Yujin kissed down the curve of her neck, down to her chest, and Wonyoung let out a soft gasp when his lips brushed against her breasts, sucking her nipples. She instinctively shifted in the water, straddling his lap, feeling the closeness of his body beneath her. Yujin's hands moved to her waist, steadying her as he kissed the soft skin of her breast. She could feel the growing desire between them, the way his hands roamed her back, sliding down to her hips, then venturing lower. 

Her breath quickened when Yujin’s fingers brushed over her sensitive core under the water, her body instinctively arching toward him. But as much as the heat between them grew, Wonyoung felt a sudden pull to slow things down, wanting a more intimate setting. 

Leaning closer to Yujin, she whispered softly in his ear, "Not here... on the bed." 

Her words were filled with a gentle urgency, and Yujin paused, lifting his head to look at her. His eyes were full of understanding and desire, nodding as he smiled tenderly. "Okay," he murmured softly. 

With that, the mood shifted slightly — still full of passion, but now with a shared anticipation of what was to come next. Yujin kissed her one more time, softly and lingering, before helping her out of the tub. He handed Wonyoung her towel as they both stepped out of the bath, the cool air hitting their damp skin. The two of them dried off quickly, but the heat between them was palpable, the brief pause only heightening the tension that had built up. Wonyoung barely had time to wrap her body in the towel before Yujin, holding his own towel loosely, took her hand and gently tugged her toward the bedroom. 

As they reached the bed, Yujin let go of her hand, but only to pull her closer by the waist, their bodies inches apart, their towels slipping slightly. They stood there, breathless, their bare skin flushed from both the bath and their growing desire. Without exchanging a word, Yujin’s lips found hers, the kiss starting soft, tentative, but quickly deepening as their tongues entwined, the heat between them flaring.

Their towels fell to the floor, forgotten, as Yujin guided Wonyoung toward the bed. With gentle hands, he laid her down, their bodies pressed together in a way that left no space between them. Their breath mingled, hearts racing, as Yujin kissed her again, his hands roaming her body, exploring the curves and softness of her skin, while Wonyoung responded with equal passion.

Yujin's lips trailed down Wonyoung's body with a slow, deliberate pace. Each kiss sent a wave of heat through her, from her neck to her breasts, where he lingered, sucking gently before continuing his journey down to her stomach. Wonyoung's body trembled with anticipation, every inch of her sensitive to his touch. 

When she felt his breath against her pussy, her heart raced even faster. They’ve only done this a few times, and despite how comfortable she had become with him, the shyness crept in. But Yujin’s confidence had grown since their first oral together. His hands spread her legs gently, and his gaze, filled with care and desire, reassured her. 

Wonyoung’s breath hitched as Yujin’s hands gripped her thighs, steadying her as he leaned in. His tongue began with a teasing flick, light but enough to make her gasp. She bit her lip, her hands finding purchase on the sheets as his movements became more deliberate, his mouth working against her sensitive core. The warmth of his tongue against her made her body arch instinctively, the pleasure building with each motion. Wonyoung gasped sharply as Yujin’s tongue darted inside her, the unexpected depth of the sensation sending shockwaves through her body. Her hands instinctively flew to his hair, gripping it tightly, as a mix of surprise and shock filled her. Yujin’s movements were so intimate, his tongue swirling inside her in a way that felt almost too good, pushing her to heights she hadn’t anticipated. 

Her body reacted naturally, back arching off the bed as Yujin’s thumb found her clit, gently circling it with a touch that left her breathless. The combination of his tongue and his thumb working together leaves her body trembling with intensity. The warmth spread through her like wildfire, igniting every nerve as she surrendered to the feeling, letting herself be fully in the moment. 

Unlike before, where her shyness had held her back, now she felt herself opening up. Her moans escaped her lips, soft at first but growing louder as the pleasure built. She no longer held back, feeling more confident and unafraid to let Yujin hear how much he was affecting her. Her body moved in sync with his, hips pushing up toward his mouth, wanting more, needing more. 

Yujin could hardly contain the rush of pride and satisfaction as he felt Wonyoung’s body reacting to him, her moans growing louder with each flick of his tongue. She’s moaning for me, almost in disbelief but filled with a deep sense of accomplishment. She’s so beautiful like this... His eyes flicked up, catching glimpses of her face as her head tilted back in pleasure, her body trembling under his touch. The sight only fueled him more. 

Her taste, the way her body responded to his every movement, was intoxicating. He loves the sound she was making, savoring the sensation as his tongue moved faster, diving in and out of her. Each moan, each breathless sound she made was a signal that he was doing his job well, and it sent a surge of heat through him. The more she responded, the more he wanted to give her. He could feel her tightening grip in his hair, her hips moving in rhythm with his tongue, and it made him feel like he was on fire. 

Yujin cursed again quietly, the raw need to please her overwhelming him. Her pussy tastes so fucking good, the sensation of her on his tongue driving him to push her higher. Without thinking, his mouth moved faster, more eager, and the moment he heard another soft gasp from her, he decided to take it further. 

Shifting his position, he moved his mouth to her clit, his lips closing around it as he sucked it hard. Wonyoung jolted, her moan louder this time, and Yujin felt another rush of pride. His tongue replaced by his fingers now, two slipping inside her warmth, curling just right as his lips closed on her clit and he couldn’t help but smirk to himself, almost smug as he continued, knowing she was close. 

His movements became faster, more deliberate as his tongue flicked over Wonyoung’s clit while his fingers curled inside her, hitting all the right spots. Wonyoung gasped, the intensity of the sensations washing over her. It was overwhelming — he’s so good, so good at this, she thought as pleasure coursed through her. Her body instinctively bucked against him, trying to chase more of that sweet sensation, but Yujin’s strong hands held her hips in place, keeping her steady as he worked her closer to the edge. 

The combination of his tongue and fingers was almost too much, and Wonyoung could feel herself getting closer. Her breath hitched, her moans becoming more frantic as her body trembled with anticipation. Then a wave of pleasure crashing over her as she came, her legs shaking uncontrollably. Yujin didn’t stop. He kept licking, his mouth still on her clit, drawing out every last bit of her orgasm. 

"Oh my god…" Wonyoung gasped, her chest rising and falling rapidly as the sensation slowly faded. Her body was still twitching with aftershocks, and she could barely catch her breath. 

Yujin, looking completely satisfied with himself, moved up to sit in front of her. His lips glistened slightly from her, and he wiped them with the back of his hand before looking at her with a teasing grin. 

"Your pussy tastes so fucking good," he said, his voice raw with lust. The words caught Wonyoung off guard. She wasn’t used to hearing something so direct from her usually adorable and playful boyfriend, and it made her moan again, surprising even herself. The rawness, the intensity of his words, sent another surge of heat through her, making her realize just how deep their connection had grown. 

Wonyoung sat up, her eyes locked onto Yujin's as she reached down, wrapping her hand around his hard length. Yujin groaned, his head falling back slightly as he savored the sensation of her hand stroking him. Wonyoung leaned in, pressing soft kisses along his neck and collarbone, her lips brushing his skin in the same tender way he had touched her earlier. 

"I want to fuck you," Yujin murmured breathlessly, his voice thick with desire. His words hung in the air between them, raw and full of need. Wonyoung bit her lip at the sound of his longing. She knew Yujin had been looking forward to this moment, especially after the promise she’d made — after exams — and now that the exams were behind them, of course he was anticipating their first time together. 

But despite how much she wanted to be with him, Wonyoung wasn’t entirely sure how far this night would go. Her thoughts were still swirling.

Instead of answering with words, Wonyoung lowered herself slowly, her eyes never leaving his. She was determined to pleasure him as deeply as he had just pleasured her. She felt the weight of his desire in her hand, and as she leaned in closer, her lips gently pressed against his tip. Yujin's sharp intake of breath encouraged her, and soon she wrapped her mouth around him, taking him deeper into her warm mouth. 

Yujin groaned again, his fingers tangling in her hair as his hips instinctively shifted closer. Wonyoung’s movements were slow and deliberate, each stroke and flick of her tongue filled with the intention to bring him as much pleasure as he had given her. 

Wonyoung’s confidence grew as her hands and mouth worked in perfect sync on Yujin’s length, her tongue gliding along his shaft and teasing the sensitive tip. She felt bolder, more daring with every movement, realizing that the intimacy between them had deepened to the point where she felt safe and eager exploring these new sensations with him. Despite this newfound comfort, she still wasn’t quite ready to take that final step yet — but that didn’t mean she wasn’t determined to give Yujin as much pleasure as she could. 

Yujin, on the other hand, could feel himself getting close, his breath becoming ragged as Wonyoung's skilled movements sent waves of pleasure through him. He could feel how far they had come — both no longer shy, no longer hesitant to explore each other's bodies. His hands gripped the sheets as he moaned softly, fighting the urge to let go just yet. 

"I'm close," Yujin murmured, his voice low and full of restraint. He didn't want to rush anything, especially not tonight, knowing that Wonyoung might not be ready to go all the way after he mentioned it. His hands gently guided her back onto the bed, trying to hold back the impatience that was building within him. He didn’t want to push, understanding that she was still deciding how far they would go tonight. 

Once they were on the bed, Yujin sat up slightly, his gaze meeting hers. "Can I... rub it on you?" he asked softly, his voice laced with both desire and respect. He stroked his length, trying to keep his momentum, but careful not to push her beyond what she was comfortable with. 

Wonyoung hesitated for a moment, then nodded. "Just rub it outside," she whispered, her voice steady but filled with anticipation. She wasn’t ready to fully cross that line yet, but the idea of Yujin rubbing against her, feeling the heat and connection between them, was something she wanted. 

"Yes," Yujin agreed, his voice husky as he positioned himself above her. He carefully aligned himself, his length pressed against her warm, wet folds as he began to gently rub. The sensation of her softness against him drove Yujin wild, but he kept his movements slow and controlled, focusing on the feeling rather than rushing anything. 

Wonyoung's breath caught in her throat as she felt Yujin's tip brushing against her entrance, teasing, as if it was barely peeking inside. The sensation made her heart race with a mix of excitement and nerves. Her mind was swirling — part of her was deeply curious, wondering what it would feel like if Yujin went just a little further, just his tip, pressing inside. But another part of her hesitated, questioning if Yujin could truly restrain himself in the heat of the moment. 

She bit her lip, her body tensing slightly as she fought the conflicting emotions. Yujin seemed to sense it, and instead of pushing further, he shifted, guiding his length to rub directly on her clit. The sudden, intense friction made her groan, the heat inside her building once more as the sensation overtook her thoughts. The feeling was overwhelming, her nerves slowly giving way to desire. 

Yujin, feeling her body respond to his movements, used his hand to press his length against her clit more firmly, covering himself over her as he rubbed faster, pressing his cock more onto her clit, wanting to give her as much pleasure as possible. His movements were deliberate yet controlled, focused on making sure she felt good, his own restraint holding back the urge to take things further. 

Wonyoung moaned, her hips instinctively moving in time with his rhythm, the tension between them growing with each passing second. She felt herself getting lost in the moment, the pleasure building and building as Yujin’s hand guided his length over her in perfect friction. The heat between them was undeniable, the intimacy of their connection as strong as ever, but still balanced by their mutual respect for each other's boundaries. 

Every time Yujin’s tip rubbed against her clit, she couldn’t help but imagine what it would feel like if he were inside her. The pressure from his head, the way his shaft brushed against her sensitive skin — it was driving her wild. She felt every inch of him, her body responding eagerly to his movements, and her imagination ran rampant. 

She tried to steady her breathing, but the thought of what could happen made her pulse quicken. What if we decide to do it tonight? The question lingered in her mind, the idea tempting her more than she expected. She was so turned on, her body betraying her hesitation as her hips bucked instinctively, seeking more of the friction that sent sparks of pleasure shooting through her. The wetness only intensified the sensation of Yujin’s length pressing against her in just the right way. 

Soft moans kept slipping from her lips, unbidden but uncontrollable. She felt so hot, so wet, and so lost in the moment that it was hard to think clearly. Each pass of Yujin’s tip made her want more. Wonyoung’s hands gripped the sheets beneath her as her moans grew louder, unable to stop herself from imagining what it would feel like if they went all the way. But for now, she let the friction and the intimacy carry her, teetering on the edge of pleasure as Yujin continued to rub against her, making her body burn with desire. 

Yujin’s breath hitched as he reached his climax, spilling onto Wonyoung’s pubic area, the warmth of his release spreading across her skin. Without missing a beat, he used the little bit of his release as lubrication, his fingers quickly finding her clit and rubbing with an intensity that made Wonyoung gasp. His fingers moved fast, determined to bring her over the edge just as he had moments before. 

Wonyoung’s body reacted immediately, her hips bucking toward his touch, the friction sending waves of pleasure coursing through her. She could feel herself getting closer, her breaths coming in shallow, desperate gasps. The wetness from his release added to the sensation, making everything feel slick and heightened. Yujin's fingers worked with precision, circling her clit faster, making her body tremble in response. Her back arched, her moans growing louder as she edged closer to her release. The heat between her legs intensified, and her body tensed, every nerve on fire as Yujin pushed her closer and closer to the brink. With one final stroke, the pressure inside her snapped, sending her into a wave of pleasure. Her legs shook uncontrollably as her orgasm hit, and all she could do was call out Yujin’s name, completely overwhelmed by the intensity of the moment. 

Yujin smiled shyly as he gently wiped his release off Wonyoung's body, and she lay there, her chest rising and falling heavily, completely relaxed. Once he was done, Wonyoung pulled him down on top of her, kissing him deeply despite her breathlessness. There was a feeling of complete satisfaction in her — the stress of exams behind her, the relief from her cramps, and now this deep intimacy with Yujin. 

Afterward, Yujin lay down beside her, kissing her cheek softly, while Wonyoung rested her head on his shoulder. A peaceful silence filled the room, their bodies still intertwined, feeling the warmth of each other. Wonyoung whispered, "I feel so complete right now." 

Yujin smiled and responded, "Same. Whenever I'm with you, I feel complete." But then he added, with a hint of sadness, "I'm happy, but also a little sad." 

Wonyoung raised her head, curious. "Why sad?"

Yujin sighed. "It’s finally winter break... but I’ll miss this — having our own space in this apartment. Once we go back to our house, we won’t get to sleep together since we’ll both be living with our families again." 

Wonyoung chuckled softly, nodding in agreement. "You’re right," she said thoughtfully, before adding with a teasing glint in her eyes, "Were you looking forward to finally having sex tonight?" 

"Yeah... Sorry. I thought we wouldn’t have time anymore with everything going on." 

Wonyoung lifted her head to look him in the eyes, her teasing smile growing. "You don’t need to worry about that," she reassured him. "We can always do this, even when we’re back home. If our parents are out... or we can always go to hotels." 

Yujin's eyes lit up with excitement. "Really?" 

Wonyoung laughed softly, shaking her head in playful disbelief. "What makes you think that once we start this, we’ll stop just because we’re back at home?" She kissed his lips gently, then whispered against them, "Of course, we’ll find ways." 

Yujin raised his arms in victory, grinning widely. "Yes!" he exclaimed. Wonyoung couldn't help but burst into laughter at his adorable reaction, shaking her head in amusement.

"Alright, alright, calm down," she teased, still smiling. "We need to sleep now. Tomorrow we have to wake up early and pack our things. Your dad is picking us up, remember?" 

Yujin pouted a little but nodded, settling back down beside her. "Fine, but only because you said so," he said playfully, wrapping his arms around her. 

Wonyoung smiled softly and kissed his cheek. "Goodnight, Yujin." 

"Goodnight, Wonyoung," Yujin replied, his voice low and warm as he nuzzled closer to her. 

With their bodies snuggled close, the two drifted off to sleep, feeling content and excited for the winter break ahead. 

***

It was late afternoon when Yujin, his father, and Wonyoung arrived at her house. The sun was setting as Yujin stepped out of the car, grabbing Wonyoung’s suitcase from the trunk. He followed his father towards the entrance, both smiling as they went to greet Wonyoung’s parents. 

Wonyoung’s parents stood at the doorway, waving as Yujin approached. "Good afternoon, Mrs. Jang! Mr. Jang!" Yujin greeted warmly, his signature playful grin on his face. His father, standing beside him, joined in with a friendly laugh, the two families already feeling like in-laws.

Wonyoung’s mother chuckled. "Yujin, you’ve gained weight, haven’t you?" she teased, her eyes twinkling as she looked him up and down. 

Yujin, ever the showman, tugged his sleeve and flexed his bicep with a proud grin. "I’ve been going to the gym religiously," he boasted, playfully striking a pose. 

Everyone laughed, including Wonyoung’s father, who patted Yujin’s back. "Good for you, Yujin. Finally."

Yujin then handed them a bag of bungeoppang. "I brought you guys a little snack." 

"Oh, you’re too sweet," Wonyoung’s mother said, taking the bag and smiling at Yujin. "Thank you, you really didn’t have to. But next time, you should stay for dinner!" 

Yujin smiled warmly. "I’d love to. Thank you, Mrs. Jang!" 

As the farewells were exchanged, Yujin turned to Wonyoung, suitcase in hand. "See you tomorrow?" she said with a soft smile, but Yujin’s pout appeared almost instantly, his lips pushing out expectantly. 

Wonyoung’s cheeks flushed, knowing exactly what Yujin was silently asking for. Their parents were watching, and Yujin’s antics were far from subtle. Her parents exchanged amused glances, clearly entertained by the scene. Shyly, she palmed Yujin’s lips, trying to hold back her own giggle. "I’ll call you later," she whispered, trying not to laugh. 

Yujin’s father chuckled as he put his arm around his son’s shoulders, pulling him away. "Come on, lover boy," he said, dragging Yujin back to the car as Yujin waved goodbye to Wonyoung and her family. 

Yujin sighed dramatically but gave her a soft smile. "Alright, see you tomorrow!" 

***

Later that night, Wonyoung lay in bed. She reached for her phone, dialing Yujin’s number. It barely rang once before he answered with his usual playful tone. 

"Miss me already?" Yujin teased. 

Wonyoung smiled softly, her voice light with laughter. "Yes, I do." 

Yujin chuckled, clearly pleased with her answer. "Do you have work soon?" 

"Yeah, on Monday," Wonyoung replied, settling more comfortably into her pillow.

"Good," Yujin said, sounding relieved. "Let’s watch a movie tomorrow, then." 

"Okay," Wonyoung agreed. 

"And after the movie, we can hang out at my place," Yujin added, his voice dropping a little mischievously. "My parents have work tomorrow." 

Wonyoung laughed. "See? I told you the universe finds ways." 

Yujin’s playful tone returned. "You’re right, as always." 

There was a brief pause before Yujin asked, "So… what do you want for Christmas?" 

Wonyoung thought for a moment before answering. "I don’t know yet." 

"That’s fine," Yujin replied easily. "We’ll go to the mall tomorrow, and maybe you’ll see something you like." 

Then Wonyoung turned the question around. "What about you? What do you want for Christmas?" 

Yujin was quiet for a few seconds, considering her question. When he finally answered, his voice was softer, almost shy. "You." 

"What do you mean, me? We’re together now." 

"Yeah," Yujin said, his voice dropping lower, "I meant… You… Just you. I want you. All of you." 

It took Wonyoung a second to realize what he was implying. Her heart skipped a beat as the meaning of his words sank in. Yujin wanted to have sex with her as his Christmas gift?

"That?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper. 

"Yeah, that," Yujin admitted. "But only if it’s okay with you. Otherwise… just something personal, something you made with effort. That’s more than enough for me." 

Wonyoung hummed softly, lost in thought as his words hung in the air. She wasn’t sure how to respond just yet, but his gentle approach made her smile. After a few moments, they shifted the conversation, talking about lighter topics before eventually ending the call. 

As she lay in bed after their call, her thoughts wandered back to Yujin’s subtle request. It wasn’t the first time she’d thought about it — about being with him in that way — but hearing him express it so directly brought a new sense of reality to it. They had been together for four months now, a time filled with happy memories, growing closer emotionally, and more recently, physically. She didn’t feel weirded out or pressured by Yujin’s wish. In fact, she liked how honest he was, how he never pushed her but simply expressed what he wanted in such a gentle, loving way. 

There was something comforting in knowing that he wanted to share something so intimate with her, that it wasn’t just about physical need but about their deepening bond. And the truth was, Wonyoung felt ready too. Not in a rushed way, but in a quiet, natural sense. She likes Yujin, and the thought of crossing that threshold with him didn’t scare her. It excited her, even if the idea still made her feel shy. 

Maybe it was time to talk to someone about it. Giselle came to mind instantly. She was her best friend. If anyone would understand or be able to give her advice, it was Giselle. Wonyoung trusted her completely, and though the conversation would be a little awkward at first, she knew she needed some guidance. 

Wonyoung exhaled softly, feeling a warmth settle over her. The thought of talking to Giselle made her feel less alone in her decision-making. She knew she didn’t have to rush anything, and that Yujin would wait for her until she was fully ready, but maybe the time was coming sooner than she thought. The thought of finally taking that step with him felt right, just as everything else had felt right between them so far. 

Maybe tomorrow, after their movie, she would ask Giselle what she should do. Just to get her perspective, to feel more prepared. After all, she wanted to make their first time special too. Wonyoung smiled to herself, feeling more at peace with the idea. There was no pressure, just love. That made all the difference. 

***

Yujin and Wonyoung strolled through the busy mall, hand in hand, as the buzz of Christmas shoppers surrounded them. The smell of cinnamon and holiday tunes filled the air. They still had time before their movie started, and Yujin, ever the sweet talker, nudged Wonyoung toward the clothing stores. 

“Pick anything you like, my Christmas gift to you.” 

Wonyoung smiled softly, touched by his gesture. She had been window-shopping for a while but hadn't found anything that really caught her eye — until now. In one of the stores, her eyes landed on a simple dress, a sleek black number with a cute ribbon detail on the waist. She held it up against herself, inspecting it in the mirror. 

Yujin’s smile faltered slightly as he immediately recognized the dress. It was that dress — the same one he had bought for Yuna as part of their little shopping deal when she helped him pick out clothes. Without thinking, Yujin blurted out, “Oh, that’s the same dress I gave Yuna.” 

Wonyoung froze, turning to him with raised brows. “You bought Yuna a dress?”

Yujin scratched the back of his head, realizing how bad it sounded. “It’s just one dress! I mean, that was the agreement, you know? She helped me choose clothes, so I… got her a dress as a thank you.” 

Wonyoung’s expression shifted, the surprise melting into something colder, her eyes narrowing slightly. “Wow,” she said, her voice dripping with sarcasm, “you buy other girls dresses?” 

Yujin blinked, caught completely off-guard by her sudden tone. “N-No! It’s not like that!” He stammered, hands flailing as he tried to explain. “It was just for helping me, I swear! It was nothing, like, serious, I mean—” 

Before he could finish his panicked explanation, Wonyoung put the dress back on the rack with a sharp motion, her lips pressed together. Without a word, she turned and walked toward the store’s exit. 

Yujin stood there, dumbfounded. His mind raced as he replayed the situation in his head. She really liked that dress… and now I’ve gone and ruined it by mentioning Yuna. He sighed, running his fingers through his hair. We’ve been going through so many stores, and she hasn’t liked anything… and now, the one thing she picks happens to be the same dress I gave Yuna? I should’ve just kept my mouth shut. 

Quickly jogging after her, Yujin caught up just outside the store. “Wonyoung, wait!” he called. She slowed but didn’t turn to face him. 

“You liked that dress, didn’t you?” he asked softly, guilt creeping into his tone. “I didn’t mean for it to come out like that…”

Wonyoung didn’t respond at first, her arms crossed as she glanced away, clearly still upset. Yujin’s heart sank. He never liked seeing her mad, especially when he knew it was his fault. He shifted awkwardly on his feet, like a kid trying to explain himself after getting caught. 

“I just want you to have something special,” Yujin continued, his voice quieter now. “And I promise, no more buying dresses for anyone else. Just you. Always just you.” 

After a moment, Wonyoung finally turned to look at him, her eyes softening slightly, though her expression was still unreadable. “You’re such an idiot,” she muttered, shaking her head, but there was the faintest hint of a smile tugging at the corner of her lips. 

Yujin grinned sheepishly, knowing that, in his dorky way, he’d probably fumbled his way through. "Yeah, but I’m your idiot, right?" he quipped, hoping for a smile. 

Wonyoung rolled her eyes, but she couldn’t help the small laugh that escaped. “Fine. But you’re buying me a dress. And it better not be the same one you gave Yuna.” 

He gently took her hand. “I’ll buy you more, whatever you want,” he offered earnestly, trying to lighten the mood. 

“Frankly, I don’t really want anything,” she admitted with a slight sigh. “But… it wouldn’t hurt to have more dresses or clothes for work.” 

Yujin’s face brightened, feeling like he was making progress. “I’ll get you a bag too then, for work. Something nice.” 

Wonyoung shook her head, smiling at his enthusiasm but putting a hand on his arm. “You don’t need to spend so much on me, especially on material things. I don’t want you wasting your money like that.” 

Yujin, still eager to make her happy, chuckled and slid his arm around her waist as they walked. “I won second place in that song contest. There was prize money. Plus, I’ve got a lot of side hustles going, so you don’t have to worry about that.” 

Wonyoung looked at him curiously. “Side hustles? Did you apply or something?” 

Yujin shrugged, a playful smirk tugging at his lips. “Not sure yet. But I’m leveling up this account for a guy, and the owner’s paying me a lot for it.” 

Wonyoung stopped for a moment, her eyes wide in surprise. “People really do that? Pay you to level up their accounts?” 

“Yeah, noob rich kids throw money around like it’s nothing. It’s a sweet deal for me.” 

She linked arms with him, teasingly saying, “Aren’t you a resourceful kid?” 

“Resourceful, yes. But not a kid anymore.” He leaned in slightly.

Wonyoung rolled her eyes but smiled, nudging him lightly. “Are you still worried that I’m mad?” 

He looked at her with puppy-dog eyes, his voice soft and innocent. “Are you?” 

Wonyoung laughed softly. “No, I’m not. But stop buying random gifts for other girls for no occasion, okay?” 

Yujin snapped to attention, saluting her jokingly. “Yes, boss.” 

They both laughed as they continued walking, eventually stopping at another store. Yujin gently nudged her toward a section of dresses. “Let’s get that dress. And I’m getting you a bag, no arguments.” 

***

Inside the dimly lit cinema, Yujin and Wonyoung sat side by side, tucked away in a secluded part of the theater’s second floor. The space was almost eerily quiet, with only a few other people scattered throughout the ground level. Yujin couldn’t help but notice how empty it was. Must be the cold outside, he thought, or maybe it’s still too early, and most people are waiting for the late screening after work. 

They were watching an animated film, the flickering light from the screen casting a soft glow across their faces. The sounds of whimsical characters and vibrant visuals filled the air as they shared a tub of popcorn, Yujin occasionally sneaking a glance at Wonyoung. She was focused on the movie, though Yujin’s mind began wandering back to the last time they were in a cinema together. He could still vividly remember how Wonyoung had once called him “baby-coded,” teasing him for his sweet, innocent charm. He also remembered how, during that same movie, he had placed his hand on her thigh, and she hadn’t reacted, as if she wasn’t taking him seriously.

Tonight, seated under the cover of darkness and their jackets draped casually over their laps, Yujin felt a surge of boldness. Testing the waters again, he slowly moved his hand beneath the jacket and gently rested it on Wonyoung’s thigh, just like last time. He half-expected her to glance at him or shift, but she didn’t. It felt so natural now, as if his touch belonged there. The movie played on, and Wonyoung’s calmness only encouraged him. 

Gradually, Yujin’s hand slid higher along her thigh, the warmth of her skin radiating through her pants. His heartbeat quickened, but Wonyoung remained still, her eyes glued to the screen. His fingers brushed against her inner thigh, and still, there was no reaction from her - no movement, no change in her breathing. Yujin’s nerves tingled as he pushed his boundaries further, his hand edging closer to her most sensitive spot. 

Then, with deliberate slowness, his palm shifted until it rested against her crotch. In that split second, he felt her body stiffen, a sharp intake of breath barely audible over the film’s soundtrack. Though subtle, the tension in her body told him that she had definitely noticed this time. 

For a moment, neither of them moved, the weight of the moment hanging in the air between them. Yujin kept his eyes fixed on the screen, his mind racing, wondering how Wonyoung would react next. The tension was palpable, but she didn’t pull away, her body simply adjusting slightly as if testing her own boundaries. 

Yujin’s fingers, now bolder, began to gently rub Wonyoung’s crotch through her pants, the pressure was subtle yet it was hard to ignore. He could feel the warmth beneath his hand, and with each movement, he grew more confident. Wonyoung’s breathing had become shallow, her focus clearly drifting away from the movie. Finally, she turned her head slightly toward him, her gaze heavy, her lips parting as she whispered in a sultry tone, "What are you doing...?" 

He smirked, feeling a rush of satisfaction from her reaction. "You don’t think I can do this, do you?" he teased, eyes still half-watching the screen. Then, without missing a beat, he added with a mischievous grin, “Now, watch the movie.” 

Wonyoung’s attention was far from the animated characters dancing across the screen now. Her body tensed and turned on all at once, caught between the sensations Yujin was stirring and the disbelief that this was happening here, in the near-empty cinema. She leaned her head against his shoulder, her body melting into his warmth, but her mind was no longer on the film. 

Yujin, sensing her growing distraction, kept his hand moving in slow, deliberate circles, teasing her with every touch. His lips grazed her ear, his breath warm against her skin as he whispered, “I’m not a baby, Wonyoung… I’m a man.” 

Wonyoung shivered at his words, the deep, intimate tone sending a thrill through her. The confident, almost cocky side of Yujin was unexpected, and it made her heart race in ways she hadn’t anticipated. This teasing side of him was new and irresistible, pulling her deeper into the moment. She let out a soft breath, her body leaning into him even more as the heat between them built, the movie now a distant background to their private, thrilling moment. The thrill of doing something so intimate here, in the middle of a public cinema, only heightened the rush.

Her legs parted slightly, almost instinctively, inviting more of his touch. Sensing her silent desire, Yujin’s hand slid beneath the waistband of her pants, his fingers dipping inside her underwear. The moment he made contact, Wonyoung let out a soft moan, her body jolting slightly at the sensation. 

“You’re so wet,” Yujin whispered teasingly. The smug grin tugged at his lips, and Wonyoung’s breath hitched at his boldness. Flustered, yet wanting more, she turned toward him and captured his lips in a heated kiss, her need for him overpowering her shyness. Their lips moved together in a fervent exchange, the intensity of their connection crackling between them. 

But after a moment, Yujin pulled away, leaving her breathless. “We’re in public, Wonyoung,” he murmured, flashing her that annoyingly handsome grin that both teased and tempted her at the same time. 

Frustrated yet completely drawn in by him, Wonyoung whispered back, “You’re so annoying…” Her voice was breathless, betraying just how much she was enjoying this despite her words. 

Yujin’s fingers continued their teasing, gently stroking her until, without warning, he slipped one finger inside her. Wonyoung gasped sharply, her body trembling at the sudden intrusion, her grip tightening on his arm as she struggled to keep her composure. Her mind raced with the thrill of it all, her body entirely at his mercy as he continued to push her buttons with every touch. His fingers moved rhythmically inside her, each motion sending waves of pleasure through Wonyoung’s body. She was trying to keep quiet, biting her lip to suppress the soft moans that threatened to escape. Her mind was foggy, overwhelmed by the intensity of his touch, completely lost in the moment. But just as she was teetering on the edge, they both heard the unmistakable sound of a group of people entering the cinema. 

In an instant, Yujin’s hand withdrew from her, and they both quickly adjusted, pretending as though nothing had happened. Wonyoung sat up straighter, her pulse still racing, trying to control her breathing. Her heart pounded in her chest, both from the excitement and the sudden interruption. 

But while Wonyoung’s body was still buzzing with desire, her mind was spinning with frustration. Yujin had teased her so much, leaving her yearning for more, only to stop suddenly. The heat in her lower belly hadn’t subsided, and it felt like she was being tormented now, left in a state of suspended desire. 

Then she watched as Yujin casually reached for the tub of popcorn on her lap. He nonchalantly picked up a few pieces with the same fingers he had just used to touch her intimately. Wonyoung’s breath hitched, her eyes locked on him as she watched in disbelief. Without a care in the world, Yujin brought those same fingers to his lips, licking them clean, his eyes still fixed on the screen. 

The sight of it sent a shockwave through her. She felt a surge of heat rush through her body, the sight of him licking his fingers after what he had just done making her even more turned on. Her chest tightened, her breath shallow. Yujin had no idea how much this simple, almost innocent gesture was affecting her, or maybe he did. Either way, it left her feeling both flustered and aroused, her thoughts consumed by what had just happened — and what she desperately wanted to happen next. 

***

As soon as they stepped through the front door of Yujin’s house, the air between them shifted, thick with unspoken tension. The knowledge that they were alone, his parents still at work, heightened the charged atmosphere. Yujin casually mentioned, "No one's home," his voice low with a hint of mischief, guiding Wonyoung to his bedroom, but before he could say more, Wonyoung locked the door behind them, her eyes burning with frustration and desire. 

Without hesitation, she grabbed Yujin by the arm and pushed him onto his bed. Her movements were firm, and Yujin looked up at her with a playful grin, clearly enjoying this bolder side of her. "Don’t tease me like that again," she said firmly, her voice dripping with both annoyance and want. 

Yujin, never one to back down from teasing her, smirked and replied, "If this is what happens when I tease you, I’ll gladly do it again." 

“Shut up,” Wonyoung muttered, her breathless voice betraying how much she wanted him right now. She climbed onto the bed, straddling him, her legs pressing against his sides as she leaned down to kiss him deeply. Their lips collided, hungry and fervent, the pent-up tension from the theater now exploding in this private space. Yujin’s hands gripped her waist, pulling her closer as their kiss deepened, tongues entwining with an almost desperate need. 

Wonyoung quickly broke the kiss, her hands already tugging at Yujin’s shirt. She lifted it over his head, tossing it carelessly aside. Yujin didn’t waste any time either, his fingers working to remove her top. In one swift motion, he peeled it off along with her bra, exposing her bare skin to the cool air. 

The second her breasts were free, Yujin’s hands were on them, cupping and squeezing, his touch rougher than usual, fueled by the heat between them. His thumbs grazed over her sensitive nipples, making Wonyoung shudder above him. His mouth followed soon after, lips wrapping around her breast as he sucked lightly, his tongue teasing the sensitive peak. The sensation made Wonyoung’s head tilt back slightly, a quiet moan escaping her lips as Yujin continued to feast on her.

Her fingers tangled in his hair as she ground her hips against him, feeling the growing hardness beneath her. The teasing was over — now, they both wanted more.

Wonyoung’s fingers moved swiftly, unbuttoning Yujin’s pants with urgency, her hands brushing against his skin as she pulled them down along with his boxers. Yujin’s hard length sprang free, and Wonyoung bit her lip. As she freed him completely from his clothing, Yujin’s voice, low and commanding, cut through the air. "Turn around." 

She hesitated for only a moment, her cheeks flushed as she realized what he was asking. She turned, positioning herself above him as Yujin lay back on the bed, his eyes dark as he guided her into position. His hands gripped her hips, helping her as he pulled her pants and underwear down in one smooth motion, leaving her completely naked. 

Wonyoung's breath hitched when she felt his breath against her bare skin, and her heart raced as she found herself hovering over Yujin’s face. It clicked what he wanted — to taste her while she was inches from his hard length. Her face was now level with his erection, the sight of him so close sending another surge of arousal through her body. 

Yujin’s hands gently pulled her closer, his lips pressing against her inner thighs as he positioned her just above him. Then, without warning, his tongue flicked against her wet folds, sending a jolt of pleasure through Wonyoung's body. She gasped softly, her hands instinctively reaching for his thighs to steady herself as he continued his sensual assault on her. 

As his mouth worked wonders on her, Wonyoung’s head dipped lower, her eyes fixed on his length just inches from her lips. The mixture of his touch and the position they were in overwhelmed her senses, her body trembling with desire as Yujin pulled her deeper into the moment. Her body shuddered from the intense pleasure he was giving her. His tongue worked in slow, teasing strokes at first, then faster, flicking over her sensitive folds, drawing soft moans from her lips as she tried to stay steady. Her breath was coming in short, ragged bursts.

With her heart racing and her own desire building, Wonyoung  lowered her mouth toward his hard length, her lips brushing the tip as she took him into her mouth. Slowly, she started to move, her hand wrapping around the base as she bobbed her head, the sensation of his skin against her lips sending shivers down her spine. Her tongue swirled around his tip, tasting him, while her hand moved in sync with her mouth, stroking him gently as she took more of him in. 

Yujin groaned against her, the vibrations from his moans adding to the pleasure he was giving her. The sound of him enjoying it only fueled her desire to please him more. His hands gripped her hips tighter as he continued to eat her out, his tongue now moving with a fevered intensity, his own moans muffled against her. 

Both of them lost in the moment, giving and receiving. Wonyoung’s mouth worked skillfully on Yujin’s length, her hand moving in time with her lips, while Yujin’s tongue explored her with relentless precision. Their bodies trembled in response to each other, groans and gasps filling the space as they drove each other closer and closer to the edge. 

As Wonyoung moved her mouth and hands rhythmically along Yujin’s length, her mind drifted, caught between the physical pleasure and a deeper realization. Every time they were together like this, every intimate moment seemed to escalate, drawing them closer, making them crave more of each other. The more they explored, the more they wanted to push boundaries, and Wonyoung could feel it building between them — a silent understanding, an unspoken anticipation. 

She imagined where this could lead, her thoughts spiraling into the idea of what they could experience together next. She knew she was ready — ready for more than just these teasing encounters. Her heart raced, not just from the pleasure Yujin was giving her, but from the excitement of what could come next. She could picture it, the closeness, the intimacy, the deep connection she wanted to share with him. 

Yujin’s tongue continued its relentless attention on her clit, sending waves of intense pleasure through her body, his hands gripping her hips firmly as he sucked and teased her. Wonyoung’s moans grew louder, muffled by the fact that her mouth was still working on him. She could feel her body tightening, her climax building rapidly, the combination of his touch and her own thoughts pushing her closer to the edge. 

Just as Wonyoung’s mind began to blur from the overwhelming sensations, she felt Yujin’s body tense beneath her. His groans deepened, and she knew he was close too. Their movements became more frantic, desperate even, as they both chased that final peak. 

And then, almost at the same moment, their bodies gave in. Yujin’s tongue sent her over the edge, her climax hitting her like a wave, and she moaned deeply around him as her body trembled uncontrollably. At the same time, Yujin groaned into her, his own release spilling into her mouth as he bucked slightly beneath her. 

Afterward, Yujin pulled Wonyoung gently to lay down beside him, their bodies still warm from the intensity they had just shared. He was saying something but Wonyoung’s mind was drifting elsewhere, lost in the lingering sensations coursing through her body. She could feel the aftershocks of pleasure, but it was more than that.

Her curiosity was growing, intensifying with every passing moment. Giselle had once warned her that the first time might be uncomfortable, that it could hurt a little, but that thought didn’t deter her. Instead, Wonyoung felt ready, more than ready. She remembered Giselle saying that she needed to be really wet for it to be comfortable, and right now, she knew her body was more than prepared. 

Her mind wandered further, imagining how it would feel — the closeness of Yujin’s body, the sensation of him being inside her, their bodies finally becoming one. She thought about how intimate it would be, how it would deepen the connection they already shared. Her heart raced at the thought, her body reacting to her own fantasies. 

Then, Yujin’s voice pulled her back to reality. "Hey, Wonyoung, are you okay?" His concerned tone snapped her out of her daydream. 

"Huh?" she blinked, turning to face him, realizing he had been speaking to her. 

"I asked if you wanted to have dinner," Yujin repeated, smiling softly as he began to sit up, reaching for his clothes. 

But before he could move further, Wonyoung reached out, her hand wrapping around his arm, stopping him. Yujin turned to look at her, confusion flickering in his eyes. 

"I’m ready." 

Yujin’s brows furrowed slightly. "Ready for what?" 

Wonyoung held his gaze for a moment longer, her heart pounding in her chest as she whispered the words that she knew would change everything between them. "Fuck me." 

Yujin's eyes widened in shock, his hands flying to his head as the reality of the moment hit him. "Oh my god," he muttered, clearly overwhelmed. Wonyoung lay there, looking at him anticipation, her voice soft but urgent. "Let’s do it now." 

He blinked, muttering, "Oh my god," again, as if he couldn't quite believe what was happening. He scrambled, his movements clumsy with excitement and nerves, reaching for the drawer beside the bed. He frantically pulled it open, his hands trembling as he grabbed a condom. Fumbling to tear the wrapper, he finally managed to put it on, his hands shaking the entire time. 

Wonyoung watched him, a mix of awe and curiosity swirling in her mind. She realized that she would probably need to learn how to do this soon — how to help him with these moments. But for now, she just let him take the lead.

Yujin leaned down, kissing her neck softly, his lips trailing down to her breasts, leaving a path of heat in their wake. He positioned himself at her entrance, his tip brushing against her slick folds as he looked at her with wide eyes. "Are you ready?" he asked, his voice trembling slightly. 

Wonyoung nodded, her heart racing. "Yes." 

Yujin’s tip rubbed against her for a few moments, teasing her, building the tension between them. Just as he was about to push inside, the front door burst open with a loud bang, followed by a familiar, piercing voice. 

"Yujin! Are you here?!" his mother screamed. 

His tip was barely inside Wonyoung’s entrance when he cursed under his breath, "Fuck, we’re dead." He felt so torn in that moment — his body to be inside her, craving her more than ever, but the reality of his mother downstairs brought him back to earth. Wonyoung, on the other hand, was equally frustrated, her body aching to continue what they had started. She wanted him now. 

Yujin groaned deeply, caught between desire and panic, before deciding not to continue, leaving them both unsatisfied. They scrambled frantically to get their clothes back on as they heard footsteps ascending the stairs. The air between them was thick with adrenaline as they rushed to make themselves presentable, throwing on shirts and pants as quickly as possible. 

Wonyoung was fastening her bra and Yujin buttoning up his pants, then a moment later the door creaked open. His mother, Ji-Young, stepped into the room. She found Yujin lying casually on his bed, pretending to play something on his phone, while Wonyoung sat beside him, her head resting against the headboard, her phone in hand. Both of them were trying to act natural, but inside, their hearts raced, knowing how close they had come to being caught. 

Both thinking about how quickly they had to throw their clothes back on — barely seconds between hearing the footsteps and Ji-Young opening the door.

Yujin, still trying to keep his voice steady, asked, "What’s wrong, Mom?" 

His mother sighed, her voice tense. "The president just declared martial law. I was so worried when I heard, but I’m glad you’re both home and safe." 

Chapter Text

After the martial law was declared though it was just for a few hours, Yujin and Wonyoung found themselves stuck at home for the foreseeable future. With both their parents around, the two of them couldn’t exactly hang out the way they wanted to — or more accurately, they couldn’t continue what they’d almost started that day in Yujin’s room. At first, there was frustration between them, both of them wanting to pick up where they left off, but the situation made that impossible. 

But over time, the tension melted into something more lighthearted. They began to joke about it, saying things like, "Maybe the universe is telling us it’s not time yet," or "Martial law: the ultimate mood killer." Yujin, despite his own frustration, understood. 

Wonyoung, on the other hand, found herself busier with work. With the law firm temporarily closed by Ji-Young, Wonyoung was working from home or Yujin’s home in his mother’s office, assisting Mrs. An with legal research and document preparation remotely. The law firm had shifted to handling most tasks online until things settled down. 

Yujin would often keep her company, lounging around her or bringing foods to her for the ‘needed break’. Though their usual playful banter remained, there was always an unspoken energy between them. Every touch, every casual brush of hands, felt like a reminder of what almost happened. And yet, they were learning to enjoy each other’s company in a quieter, less pressured way. 

***

The atmosphere in the city had grown increasingly tense. With the president impeached, protests filled the streets. Wonyoung, Liz, and Giselle had been discussing their plans to attend one of the demonstrations. As law students, they felt deeply connected to the situation — order and justice were principles they held close. Wonyoung, working remotely at Yujin's mother’s home office, casually mentioned the protest plans to Yujin one afternoon. 

"We're going to the protests tomorrow," Wonyoung said, her eyes fixed on her laptop as she typed, expecting no strong reaction from Yujin. "Liz, Giselle, and I." 

Yujin, who was lounging on the couch with his guitar, suddenly looked up. "You are?"

"Yeah," Wonyoung nodded, glancing at him. "We feel like we should. You know, as future lawyers, it's important to stand up for what we believe in." 

Yujin set his guitar aside, standing up and stretching lazily. "I’ll join you." 

Wonyoung blinked, genuinely taken aback. "Wait, really? You’re sure about that?" She studied his face, half-expecting him to be joking. Yujin had always seemed more carefree and detached from serious political matters. 

But his expression was firm, even serious. "Of course. I care about this country too," he said. "I don’t like how things are going either." 

A smile slowly spread across Wonyoung's face, admiration lighting up her eyes. Before she could stop herself, she leaned over and quickly kissed him on the lips. It was brief but filled with affection, as though she wanted to show him how proud she was without saying it. 

The kiss caught Yujin by surprise, and he grinned, but before he could react, the door to the office opened. Ji-Young, Yujin’s mother, walked in. "Yujin, break is over. Get out of here and let Wonyoung work in peace." 

Yujin threw his hands up in mock surrender. "Yes, ma’am!" He shot Wonyoung one last playful glance before happily exiting the room, clearly pleased with himself. 

As the door closed behind him, Wonyoung returned to her laptop with a soft smile on her lips. There was something different about Yujin lately — a depth she hadn’t fully seen before. The fact that he wanted to stand up for something as important as this, especially when so many men in their country avoided these conversations or do not care at all, made her heart swell with pride. Her boyfriend wasn’t just some carefree rebel; he cared about justice, about the future of their country, about the same things she did. 

And that made her fall for him even more. 

***

The following day, Wonyoung, Liz, Giselle, and Yujin joined the crowds at the protest the next day. Despite the tense political situation, the atmosphere at the protest was oddly peaceful. People were gathered in solidarity, and the sight of lightsticks glowing in the cold winter air. 

Wonyoung glanced around, taking in the diverse crowd. Protesters of all ages were waving their colorful lightsticks in unison, showing their support for change in the country. Even in the midst of a serious demonstration, there was a sense of unity, a shared purpose. 

Liz proudly waved her SNSD lightstick in the air, a nostalgic symbol of her love for the group. She grinned and nudged Giselle, who was holding her phone, capturing the moment on video. “I never thought I’d be bringing this to a protest, but here we are!” 

As they found a spot in the line, Wonyoung noticed Yujin rummaging through his bag. “What are you doing?” she asked curiously. 

A moment later, Yujin pulled out not one, but two lightsticks. Giselle’s eyes widened, and she let out an amused gasp. "Woah! We’ve got ourselves a fanboy!"

Yujin, with a proud smirk, held up the lightsticks. "Aespa and IVE," he announced, his eyes sparkling mischievously as he showed them off. "I came prepared." 

Wonyoung’s eyes lit up with surprise and laughter. She couldn’t help but admire how dedicated he was to even the smallest details. "Wait, you brought both?" she laughed, genuinely amused. 

Yujin nodded confidently. "I saw on a forum that people were bringing lightsticks, so I figured I might as well represent my favorite groups." He held out the IVE lightstick to Wonyoung. "Here, take this one. It’s pink, and I know you like it." 

Wonyoung giggled, taking the lightstick from him with a grateful smile. "You really thought of everything, didn’t you?" she said, shaking her head in disbelief, still smiling at how much effort he’d put into even this moment. She turned it on, and the pink light illuminated her face softly. 

Giselle burst out laughing. "Yujin, you’re killing me. Who would’ve thought you’d come this prepared for a protest?" 

Yujin shrugged, a smug grin on his face. "The lightsticks are cute." 

Wonyoung leaned in closer to him, her heart warm despite the chilly air. His effort, his charm — it was things like this that made her fall for him over and over again. As they stood side by side, their lightsticks glowing brightly among the sea of protesters, she felt proud to be here with him, fighting for something that mattered. Even in serious moments like this, Yujin had a way of making her feel lighter, like the world wasn’t as heavy with him around. 

As the protest chants echoed through the streets, Wonyoung squeezed Yujin’s arm, and he looked down at her with that boyish grin she adores so much. "Let’s make sure our voices are heard today," he said confidently, holding up his lightstick. 

Wonyoung smiled, nodding. "Yeah, let’s." 

***

The protest was alive with energy, but it wasn’t the chaotic kind — it was filled with a sense of unity and shared purpose. The cold air swirled around them, but the warmth from the people gathered made it feel like a community coming together. As Wonyoung, Giselle, Liz, and Yujin walked through the crowd, they noticed groups of volunteers handing out food and drinks to anyone who needed it. 

“Look at that,” Giselle pointed, smiling as they approached a table where kind-hearted volunteers were distributing kimbap, sandwiches, drinks and hot packs. “These people really thought of everything.” 

Wonyoung nodded in agreement, a smile tugging at her lips as she accepted a warm cup of tea. “It’s amazing how everyone’s looking out for each other,” she said, her heart swelling with admiration for the crowd. 

They settled down near the edge of the protest, taking a moment to enjoy the generosity of the people. There was something so comforting about seeing everyone come together like this. No one was here for themselves; it was all about making sure everyone felt supported. 

Then, a familiar melody started playing from one of the protestor’s portable speakers — "Into the New World" by Girls’ Generation. The upbeat tune carried through the cold air, lifting spirits and bringing smiles to faces all around. Without hesitation, Yujin’s eyes lit up, and before anyone could say a word, he burst into song. 

“Neol saenggangman haedo nan ganghaejyeo!”  he belted out, his voice loud and clear, his energy contagious. The lyrics of the iconic song echoed throughout the protest, and Wonyoung and Giselle exchanged a glance before bursting into laughter. 

“Oh my God, look at him go!” Giselle said, giggling as she watched Yujin sing his heart out. 

Wonyoung covered her mouth, trying to suppress her laughter. Yujin was completely lost in the moment, singing every word with pure enthusiasm. His face was beaming, his lightstick waving in the air, as if this was his own personal concert. He even added dramatic hand movements, which only made Giselle and Wonyoung laugh harder. 

“He’s really giving it his all!” Wonyoung said through her giggles, her cheeks flushed from the cold and the laughter. 

Yujin turned to them, grinning from ear to ear. “Come on, join me! This is the anthem of a generation!” he shouted over the music, and without missing a beat, he resumed singing, hitting the high notes with complete confidence. 

Giselle couldn’t resist. She joined in, singing along with Yujin, though she was still laughing too hard to keep a straight face. 

Wonyoung, still shaking her head at how extra Yujin was being, finally gave in. She sang along quietly, her voice blending with the chorus of voices around them. Despite the cold, despite the tension in the country, this moment felt light, fun, and free. 

As the song played on, more and more people in the protest joined in, singing loudly and proudly. The once - serious atmosphere became lighter, filled with music and laughter. Yujin’s over-the-top singing had set the tone, and soon enough, the whole crowd was united not just by their cause but by this shared joy. 

As the song came to an end, Yujin took a bow, dramatically waving his lightstick. “Thank you, thank you,” he joked, earning applause and laughter from the people around him. 

Wonyoung shook her head, her smile wide and genuine. “You’re hilarious,” she teased, nudging him playfully. 

Yujin shrugged, still grinning. “What can I say? Girls’ Generation brings out the best in me.” 

***

After the protest, Yujin walked Wonyoung to her house, their breath visible in the cold. They didn’t say much, both feeling the quiet contentment that had settled between them after the long day. When they neared her house, Yujin stopped and smiled at her. "Goodnight," he said, but before he could fully pull away, Wonyoung wrapped her arms around his neck, stopping him.

Her heart raced, and in that moment, Wonyoung had a realization, thinking about how sweet and thoughtful Yujin had been, how he had stood by her side during the protest and supported the things that mattered to her. His presence, his effort, everything about him made her heart swell with affection. She could feel her emotions bubbling up inside her, and she knew she couldn't hold them back any longer. 

“I love you.”

Yujin's eyes widened in shock, but they quickly lit up with pure joy. "Really?" he asked, his voice a mix of disbelief and excitement. "You love me now?" 

Wonyoung nodded, smiling shyly. "I’ve been in love with you for some time now, actually. I was just too distracted with exams and everything to say it sooner." 

Without warning, Yujin hugged her tightly, lifting her off the ground and spinning her around in the chilly night air. "You love me!" he exclaimed, his face beaming with happiness. Wonyoung laughed too.

"Put me down!" she giggled, her arms still around his neck. 

When Yujin finally set her down, he took a step back and broke into a silly dance, twirling and moving in exaggerated motions. Wonyoung couldn’t stop laughing at his antics.

Once he was done with his little celebration, Yujin pulled her back into his arms and kissed her. Wonyoung kissed him back, feeling the heat between them chase away the cold. 

"I love you," Yujin whispered against her lips. 

"I love you too," Wonyoung responded, and soon the words flowed between them as naturally as their kisses. "I love you," she repeated, smiling as they kissed again. 

They both kept saying it, over and over, in between the soft press of their lips, each declaration making them smile even wider, their laughter mixing with the quiet night as they stood under the streetlights, wrapped up in each other. 

***

On Christmas Eve, the streets still decorated with twinkling lights from the recent holiday rush. Wonyoung and her parents stood in front of Yujin’s house, carrying bags filled with food and gifts. The warmth of the house's interior lights spilled onto the porch, and Wonyoung couldn’t help but smile at the festive feeling in the air. 

Her father rang the doorbell, and within seconds, the door swung open. Yujin stood there, grinning from ear to ear, his eyes lighting up as soon as he saw them. 

“Merry Christmas!” he exclaimed, his voice full of enthusiasm. He was dressed in a cozy sweater with a rudolph design, a Santa hat perched crookedly on his head, making him look slightly goofy. His excitement was contagious. 

“Merry Christmas!” Wonyoung and her parents chimed in together, smiling warmly as they stepped inside. 

Yujin immediately took the food containers from Wonyoung's mother’s hands, handling them with care. “Let me help with those,” he said, leading them toward the dining table. The table was already half-set with Christmas dishes, candles, and festive decor, the whole room glowing with a soft, golden light. 

As Wonyoung’s family followed him inside, the house felt warm and cozy, filled with the smell of roasting meats, baked goods, and pasta dishes. Wonyoung’s mother had brought her famous holiday dishes — bulgogi, japchae, and a variety of banchan, all wrapped neatly in containers, while her father carried a bottle of wine and a cake they had made earlier in the day. 

“Wow, everything looks amazing!” Wonyoung’s mother said, admiring the decorations and the table setting as Mrs. An, appeared from the kitchen, smiling brightly. 

“Merry Christmas!” Mrs. An greeted, her face lighting up as she saw them. “We’ve been waiting for you!” 

The two families exchanged greetings, warm hugs, and well wishes. Yujin’s father joined them from the living room, shaking hands with Wonyoung’s father and offering him a drink. 

Wonyoung, now standing by Yujin's side, felt a sense of comfort wash over her. Everything felt right. She glanced at Yujin, who was busy setting down the food on the table, his movements quick and full of energy. She nudged him lightly with her elbow, and he looked at her with a wide grin. 

“Thanks for helping us carry everything in,” she said softly, a smile playing on her lips. 

Yujin winked, adjusting his Santa hat. “Anything for you. Plus, I’m excited to eat the food you made,” he joked, patting his stomach in mock pride. “Yours and your mother’s food are more delicious than my mom’s.” He whispered.

Wonyoung chuckled, rolling her eyes playfully. “Of course.” 

They both turned as Mrs. An beckoned them toward the dining table. “Come on, let’s get everything ready! We’ll start soon.” 

***

As the evening went on, it was time to exchange gifts. Yujin eagerly handed Wonyoung a brightly wrapped box with a wide grin on his face, his excitement barely contained. “Here, open it!” he urged, bouncing slightly in his seat. 

Wonyoung smiled, pulling the ribbon loose and tearing into the wrapping paper. Inside, she found a set of adorable Christmas-themed mittens and socks, each pair featuring a different design — snowmen, reindeer, santa and candy canes. She laughed softly as she lifted them out of the box. 

“Oh my gosh, these are so cute!” she said, eyes lighting up. “I was actually eyeing these at the mall the other day.” 

Yujin's eyes sparkled with pride as he leaned back in his chair, putting his thumb on his nose and waving his fingers to imitate a reindeer. “I’m Yudolph, here to deliver the best Christmas gifts!” 

Wonyoung burst out laughing at his playful gesture. “You’re ridiculous,” she teased, as she slipped on one of the mittens. “But seriously, I love them. Thank you.” 

In return, Wonyoung handed him a small, neatly wrapped package. Yujin tore into it with just as much enthusiasm, revealing a soft, hand-knitted scarf in a deep navy color. He stared at it for a moment, realizing it was homemade. 

“Wait... did you make this?” he asked, eyes wide with surprise. 

Wonyoung nodded, slightly shy but smiling. “Yeah. I started it a while ago. I hope you like it.” 

Yujin grinned, immediately wrapping the scarf around his neck. “I love it. It’s perfect.” He admired the craftsmanship, running his fingers over the soft fabric. “It’s warm too. I’m wearing this all winter.” 

***

After dinner and a joyful evening spent exchanging gifts, both families exchanged warm farewells once more. Wonyoung and her family left Yujin’s house, the chilly night air biting at their cheeks as they made their way back home, arms full of gifts and leftovers. 

Once they reached home, Wonyoung headed upstairs to take a quick bath. The warmth of the water relaxed her muscles, and she allowed herself to unwind, reflecting on the evening and the lighthearted moments she shared with Yujin. A smile played on her lips at the thought of him pretending to be "Yudolph." 

When she finished, dressed in her cute pajamas, she heard her parents calling her from downstairs. She quickly dried her hair and descended to find them waiting for her in the living room, their suitcases near the door. Her mother spoke up, “Wonyoung, we’ve decided to leave for the province tonight instead of tomorrow. We’ll be back in three days. Are you okay staying on your own, or would you like to come with us?” 

Wonyoung’s heart skipped a beat. This was an unexpected but golden opportunity. She could barely contain her excitement at the thought of having the next few days free to spend with Yujin. Keeping her expression neutral, she quickly thought up an excuse. 

“Actually,” Wonyoung began, “since the martial law was lifted, Mrs. An might need me back at work soon. It might be better if I stay in the city, just in case.” 

Her mother raised an eyebrow but seemed satisfied with the answer. Her father chimed in, “If you’re staying, can you arrange to stay with Giselle or maybe at Yujin’s house? We don’t want you to be alone for too long.” 

Wonyoung nodded, already planning her next steps. “I’ll ask them,” she replied casually, but in her mind, she was already picturing a romantic night with Yujin. 

After helping them load their bags into the car and waving them goodbye, Wonyoung returned inside, closing the door with a sigh of relief. As the quiet of the house settled around her, she smiled to herself, feeling a surge of anticipation. The opportunity to spend uninterrupted time with Yujin had come sooner than she expected. 

Now, with her parents away for a few days, she could finally make her move and experience what had been lingering between them. 

***

Wonyoung lounged on the couch in the living room, her legs tucked beneath her as the quietness of the empty house settled around her. She stared at her phone for a moment before deciding to call Yujin. It didn’t take long for him to answer, his voice sounding bright as ever. 

“Hey,” Yujin said, the faint sound of video game noises in the background. “What’s up?” 

Wonyoung smiled to herself, her fingers lightly tracing the edge of her phone. “What are you doing?” she asked. 

“Just playing a game,” he replied casually. “And you?” 

Wonyoung paused for a moment, letting her voice drop a little. “My parents just left,” she said, her tone carrying a hint of suggestion. 

“Oh…” Yujin replied, unsure where this was going. 

She let the silence linger for a beat before speaking again, this time with a sultry undertone. “I’m going to be alone here for three days.” Her voice became even more seductive, dripping with temptation. “Maybe… you’d like to come over and keep me company? That is, only if you’re not busy.” 

On the other end, there was a sharp intake of breath. Yujin was clearly caught off guard. “W-what?” he stammered, clearly surprised by her sudden forwardness. 

Wonyoung chuckled softly at his reaction, already picturing the flustered look on his face. Before she could say more, Yujin scrambled to respond, his voice coming out in a rush. “I’ll… I’ll just take a quick shower! Be right there, okay?” 

She could hear the frantic rustling of him moving around, likely throwing his controller down and rushing to get ready. His panic was adorable, and it made her laugh. 

“Don’t take too long,” she teased.

“Promise! I’ll be quick,” Yujin responded breathlessly before he hung up in a hurry. 

Still smiling to herself, Wonyoung set her phone down, feeling the excitement build. She imagined Yujin scrambling around his room, probably throwing on whatever clothes he could find and sprinting to the door. There was something thrilling about how quickly he reacted, and the thought of seeing him soon sent a pleasant shiver down her spine. 

She stretched her arms out and settled back into the couch, her mind already racing with anticipation for what was about to unfold. 

***

Ten minutes later, the doorbell rang. Wonyoung stood up, her heart skipping a beat as she opened the door. There stood Yujin, in sweatpants and a sweater, his hair slightly damp from a rushed shower. It was clear he had quickly blow-dried it just to get there in time. His cheeks were flushed from the cold, but there was a look of excitement in his eyes as he stepped inside. 

Wonyoung smirked inwardly, letting him in. “Did your parents know you were coming over?” she asked, a teasing lilt in her voice as she shut the door behind him. 

Yujin shook his head with a small grin. “Nah, they’re probably knocked out by now. They had a bit too much to drink after dinner,” he said, rubbing the back of his neck as he followed her toward the living room. 

She led him to the couch, feeling a playful energy building inside her. Yujin sat down beside her, his nerves starting to show. She could tell he was a little on edge, his mind racing with thoughts of what might happen tonight.

Yujin, lost in his own thoughts, was smiling widely, as if he were imagining something grand. He didn’t realize it, but his grin was so obvious that Wonyoung had to ask, “Why are you grinning like that?” 

He blinked and snapped out of his daydream, feeling a bit flustered. “Oh, uh… I’m just… happy,” he said nervously, scratching his head. “It’s Christmas, and we got to celebrate with our families earlier… and now I get to end the night with you too.” His voice softened on the last part, his eyes meeting hers with a sincerity that made her heart flutter. 

Wonyoung chuckled softly, finding his innocence and nervous excitement adorable. She leaned closer, resting her hand lightly on his leg as she gazed at him. “You’re really cute, you know that?” 

As the minutes passed, Yujin's mind began to race. He sat there beside Wonyoung, but something felt… off. Why were they still in the living room? Shouldn’t they be heading to her room by now? His thoughts tumbled over themselves, trying to make sense of the situation. Didn’t she invite me over to finally… do it? he wondered, growing more and more anxious as time ticked by. 

He glanced over at Wonyoung, who seemed relaxed, casually scrolling on her phone. But Yujin couldn’t shake the thoughts swirling in his head. It made sense, right? he reasoned with himself. After all, the martial law, though brief, had everyone on edge. People were too afraid to leave their homes, and the uncertainty of the situation had forced their plans to stay at a hotel to fall through. They had both been frustrated by the sudden restrictions, their intimacy constantly interrupted by timing or circumstances. Even after the law was lifted, they could only hang out at his house after Wonyoung’s workday, but his mom was always there, and it wasn’t like they could do anything then. 

But now, with just the two of them alone in Wonyoung’s house, it felt like they finally had the chance. Yujin swallowed, feeling a nervous excitement build in his chest. His heart thudded as he discreetly slid his hand into the pocket of his sweatpants, his fingers brushing against the small box of condoms he’d brought with him — just in case. 

Maybe tonight is the night, he thought, his pulse quickening. His mind kept drifting back to the phone call earlier — her sultry voice, the way she teased him, practically inviting him over with something in mind. He had rushed to get here as fast as he could, barely managing to dry his hair, all because he believed that this was finally happening. 

His gaze flickered back to Wonyoung, who was now leaning back into the couch, looking at him with a soft smile. Yujin tried to keep calm, but the tension inside him was growing. He knew she had to be thinking the same thing — why else would she invite him over when her parents had just left? But for now, they were just sitting there, side by side, waiting. For what, though? 

Wonyoung was texting Giselle, her fingers moving quickly across the screen as she smiled to herself. Giselle had teased her before the break, handing her some pills "just in case" with a wink, knowing full well what might happen in this winter break. Wonyoung had blushed at her friend’s playful teasing, but now, as she sat waiting for a response, her mind drifted to the night ahead. She finally received a reply, Giselle’s message popping up on her screen, explaining when and how to take the pills — after sex, she reminded her. 

She smiled, her heart racing a little as the reality of the moment set in. She glanced over at Yujin, who seemed lost in thought, fidgeting slightly as he sat next to her. He hadn’t noticed her watching him, and Wonyoung could sense his nervous energy, the same nervousness she was trying to mask. She chuckled quietly to herself, tucking her phone away, and then nudged him gently. 

"Let’s go to my room."

Yujin jumped a little at her touch, his wide eyes snapping to hers as if she had just jolted him out of a daydream. "Y-yeah..." he stammered, his voice cracking with awkwardness as his heart raced even faster. His mind raced too, all of his earlier thoughts about tonight swirling back to the surface in an instant. Is this really happening? he wondered as he stood up, his body suddenly feeling a bit unsteady. 

Wonyoung smiled warmly at his reaction, finding his awkwardness endearing. She took his hand, her fingers gently lacing through his, and led him toward the stairs. Yujin followed, his pulse quickening with each step, the air between them filled with anticipation. He couldn’t believe this was finally happening — after all the teasing, the interruptions, the close calls. They were alone now, walking up to her room, and Yujin could barely contain the excitement and nerves coursing through him. 

As they reached the top of the stairs, the quietness of the house felt almost amplified. Wonyoung’s grip on his hand tightened slightly as they made their way down the hallway toward her bedroom. Yujin’s mind raced with thoughts of what was to come, his earlier awkwardness melting into a nervous excitement as he followed her lead. 

Wonyoung quietly closed the door behind them, the soft click seemed to signal the start of something they'd both been waiting for. Yujin moved toward her without hesitation, his lips finding hers almost immediately, and the kiss was deep, warm, filled with an electric anticipation that made Wonyoung's heart race. The closeness was intoxicating, and Yujin could smell her fresh, sweet scent, like a mix of body wash and the light fragrance of her lotion. Her skin was soft, smooth, and radiating, pulling him in deeper as his arms instinctively wrapped around her slim waist, pulling her close. 

Her responded by looping her arms around his neck, her fingers brushing lightly through his still-damp hair. She could tell he had put on a bit of cologne, a light, fresh scent that made her smile internally. He’d gone through the effort, even though they lived right next to each other, and it made her heart flutter a bit. It was sweet, thoughtful — so Yujin. 

As their kiss deepened, Yujin trailed his lips down to her neck, placing soft kisses there. "Your pajama is cute," he whispered. Wonyoung felt her face flush a little, the mixture of his words and his touch making her body feel lighter, her mind a bit dizzy. 

She looked down at herself with a soft laugh. "Shin-chan pajamas... perfect for the mood, right?" she teased, trying to keep the mood light even though the tension between them was anything but. 

Yujin pulled back slightly, his eyes meeting hers with a playful glint. "What mood are we in right now?" he asked, his voice innocent but with an unmistakable edge to it. His hands slid lower, gently cupping her ass as his fingers pressed into her soft skin. He pulled her closer, his grip firm. 

Wonyoung's breath hitched slightly at the sensation, and she leaned in, her lips brushing against his ear as she murmured, "You tell me." 

Yujin smirked, his hand giving her ass a slight squeeze as he looked down at her. "This mood?" he asked, their shared intent no longer a secret between them. Still kissing Wonyoung, he gently guided her backward toward the bed. And her pulse quickened as she fell back onto the soft mattress. Yujin hovered above her, his eyes locked on hers as he leaned down to kiss her again. His fingers moved to the buttons of her pajama top, slowly unfastening them one by one.

As each button came undone, Wonyoung's skin was revealed inch by inch until her bare breasts were exposed to him. She felt a shiver run through her body, a mix of excitement and nerves. Yujin's gaze lingered on her for a moment before his hands instinctively reached out to cup her breasts, his palms warm against her soft skin. He groaned quietly into her lips as he continued kissing her, his hands now rolling her nipples between his fingers gently, sending little shocks of pleasure through her. 

Wonyoung gasped softly as his lips left hers, moving down her neck, kissing his way lower until he reached her chest. Yujin didn’t hesitate as he took one of her nipples into his mouth, sucking gently at first, then flicking his tongue over it in slow motions. His other hand continued fondling her, kneading the soft flesh of her other breast, his fingers working in tandem with his lips. 

As Yujin kissed his way down Wonyoung's stomach, she felt her body tense slightly, her muscles tightening under his touch. Sensing the sudden shift, Yujin paused and looked up at her. "Are you okay?" 

Wonyoung took a breath and nodded, though her voice wavered a bit. "It's just... cold," she murmured, feeling her skin prickle in the cool air. 

Yujin smiled reassuringly, his hands gently rubbing her sides. "Don’t worry," he said with a soft chuckle, "I’m about to warm you up." 

Wonyoung's heart fluttered at his words, but the growing nervousness inside her was undeniable. When Yujin kissed her again, his lips moving with gentle care, she couldn’t help but ask, “What are you going to do?” 

Yujin paused for a moment, hovering above her, his eyes meeting hers with a playful gleam. “What do you want me to do?” 

Wonyoung’s mind raced. What she wanted was Yujin — all of him. But now, with his full attention on her, she started feeling the weight of the moment, nerves creeping up on her. Just chill, she thought to herself. She needed to calm down.

Yujin’s voice broke through her thoughts again. “Do you know what I want?” 

Wonyoung nodded, her heart pounding in her chest. 

Yujin grinned, leaning in closer, his lips brushing against her ear as he spoke softly. “I want to lick your pussy until you come on my face.” 

A shiver ran down Wonyoung’s spine, and she felt the heat between her legs intensify. She swallowed hard, moisture already gathering between her thighs.

Yujin lifted his head to look at her. "Do you want that?" he asked, his eyes locked on hers, waiting for her answer. 

Wonyoung, her breath shaky, managed to nod. “Yes.” 

With that, Yujin hooked his fingers around the waistband of her pajama bottoms, and without a word, Wonyoung lifted her hips instinctively, helping him slide the fabric down along with her underwear. His hands ran back up her now - bare thighs.

Yujin’s fingers slid between her legs, brushing against her slick core, and Wonyoung’s hips bucked involuntarily at the touch. Yujin groaned softly, “You’re so wet,” he murmured, his voice thick with desire as his fingers glided against her. 

He leaned down, capturing her lips in a brief, heated kiss before pulling back. His lips trailed down her body, pressing slow, deliberate kisses along her stomach. Wonyoung’s breathing quickened, her skin tingling everywhere his mouth touched. Yujin's hands hooked around her legs, gently parting them wider, and he shifted lower, his lips brushing along the inside of her thigh, sending sparks of anticipation through her. 

"I love your pussy so much," Yujin whispered, his breath hot against her sensitive skin. Wonyoung’s heart fluttered wildly at his words, the heat between her legs growing as she closed her eyes, her body humming with a mixture of nerves and need. The warmth of his breath hovered just above her center, teasing her, while her clit throbbed with expectation. 

Wonyoung groaned loudly as Yujin’s tongue ran the length of her pussy, sending a jolt of pleasure through her body. Her fingers gripped the bedsheets tightly, her knuckles turning white as his mouth devoured her with a mix of hunger and tenderness. His lips moved all around her, kissing her intimately with the same intensity he used on her mouth, as if savoring every inch of her. His tongue swirled around the edges of her clit, teasing her, making her ache for more. 

Yujin’s hands gripped her hips, pulling her closer as he buried his face between her legs, his tongue moving slow and firm, drawing out every moan from her lips. Wonyoung’s breath grew ragged, her body arching toward him. She couldn't imagine ever getting over how incredible it felt when Yujin ate her out — his skill, his passion, the way he seemed completely lost in her. Each movement of his tongue sent waves of pleasure coursing through her, and she could feel herself getting wetter, her need for him growing stronger by the second. 

Then Yujin’s tongue centered on her clit, flicking it with deliberate, repetitive strokes that made her whole body tremble. “You taste so good,” he murmured against her, his voice thick with desire. His words sent a fresh wave of arousal through her, and before she could respond, he slid a finger inside her. 

Wonyoung gasped loudly, her hips instinctively lifting toward him, pressing herself against his face. The sensation of his tongue on her clit and his finger inside her was almost too much, and she found herself grinding against him, chasing the growing pleasure that was building rapidly inside her. Every flick of his tongue, every movement of his finger brought her closer to the edge, her breaths coming faster, her heart racing as she gave herself completely to the moment. 

Yujin curled his finger inside her, hitting that sweet spot that made Wonyoung gasp loudly, her back arching off the bed as the sensation coursed through her. She barely had time to catch her breath before he added another finger, filling her even more. His fingers moved faster, thrusting deep inside her, while his tongue circled her clit with increasing speed, alternating between flicks and sucking that sent shockwaves through her entire body. 

Wonyoung’s legs began to shake uncontrollably, a telltale sign of the overwhelming pleasure that was building inside her. The intensity made her feel lightheaded, her vision blurring at the edges as everything in her world narrowed down to Yujin's touch. "God," she panted, her breath coming in short, desperate bursts, as pure, unrelenting pleasure mounted deep in her pelvis, escalating with every flick of his tongue and thrust of his fingers. 

Her head spun, her heart raced, and she felt the tension coil tighter and tighter inside her, ready to snap. "Oh my god, don’t stop," she pleaded as she teetered on the edge of release, every nerve in her body alive with anticipation. She gripped the sheets harder, her hips moving of their own accord, pressing harder against Yujin’s face.

Wonyoung's breath quickened, her chest rising and falling as her body moved with reckless abandon. Her hips circled against Yujin’s mouth, her eyes squeezed shut as the pleasure built to an unbearable peak. She gripped his hair tightly, pulling him closer, her fingers tangling in the strands. "Yes, god, yes," she panted, her voice barely above a whisper but filled with urgency. Her hips bucked uncontrollably as Yujin sucked her clit harder, his fingers inside her, thrusting deeply in perfect rhythm. 

It was too much. The combination of his mouth and fingers pushed her over the edge, and with a sharp gasp, she clamped a hand over her mouth, trying to stifle the scream that tore from her throat. Her body exploded with pleasure, coming hard against Yujin's mouth and fingers. She writhed beneath him, her clit pulsing desperately with the aftershocks of her orgasm. 

Just as the sensitivity became too much to bear, Yujin pulled back, his lips glistening. He quickly removed his sweater, his eyes dark with desire. "Do you want me to fuck you, Wonyoung?" 

Wonyoung's heart skipped a beat, and time seemed to stand still for a moment as Yujin’s question hung in the air. Her fingers absently traced along her still-flushed skin, the warmth of her recent climax tingling through her. Excitement and a trace of fear mixed inside her, a storm of emotions swirling together. She looked up at Yujin, who leaned closer, his lips brushing lightly against hers, the taste of herself still lingering on his mouth. He asked again, his breath warm against her lips, "Do you want to have sex with me?" 

Her hands slowly roamed over his bare torso, her fingertips tracing the lines of his more defined muscles. She felt the difference in him, like he had grown into himself in the time they'd been together. Her heart raced even faster, not just from anticipation but from the gravity of the moment. After everything they had been through, this felt right. 

“Yes.”

Yujin's face lit up with a huge smile. He kissed her hard, full of passion, pulling her body close against his. When he pulled back, his eyes searched hers again, a gentle but serious question lingering in them. "Are you sure?" he asked, his voice more tender this time, almost as if giving her one last moment to reconsider. 

Wonyoung nodded, her resolve solidifying. She was sure. She had never imagined being this close to anyone before, let alone letting them in this way. But with Yujin, it felt different. It felt like something she wanted — something her body craved. She couldn’t wait anymore. 

"I’m sure."

Yujin exhaled, his smile returning as he leaned in again, this time with a different kind of intent in his eyes — more tender, more intimate. And Wonyoung felt the weight of her decision, but it didn’t scare her anymore. This was what she wanted, with him, right here and now. 

He removed his pants and underwear, the cool air of the room contrasted with the warmth building between them. He leaned down, kissing Wonyoung deeply, his tongue slipping into her mouth, igniting a fire that matched the rapid beat of her heart. Wonyoung kissed him back fervently, her fingers brushing against the firm planes of his chest. Each touch sent sparks through her, and she moaned softly against his lips, her body responding to the palpable tension radiating from him. 

She could feel the anticipation in her core, the way her body seemed to be preparing itself for what was about to happen. Yujin’s lips moved over hers, slowly, making her head swim with sensation. It was intoxicating, and for a moment, Wonyoung felt like she was floating. She pulled away, breathless, needing a second to ground herself. Yujin pressed his forehead against hers, their heavy breaths mingling in the quiet room, both of them locked in the same swirling emotions. 

Then Yujin reached for his sweatpants on the floor, pulling out a condom from his pocket. He fumbled with it for a second, and Wonyoung could see the nervousness in his hands, the same nervousness she felt pounding in her chest. It was the first time she had ever seen a condom up close, something she had only glimpsed on TV. Now, seeing it right in front of her, the reality of what they were about to do hit her in full force. It was a strange, almost surreal moment, something she had never quite prepared herself for. 

She bit her lip, her mind racing as she closed her eyes for a moment, trying to steady herself. Her heart pounded in her ears, louder than ever, as she listened to the faint sound of Yujin rolling the condom on. She let the sounds of the room settle around her — the quiet hum of the winter night outside, the gentle rustle of sheets, the soft sound of Yujin’s breath. She wanted to remember every detail of this moment, imprinting it in her mind as she prepared to lose her virginity on this Christmas night. 

Wonyoung’s eyes fluttered open as she felt Yujin’s hand softly brush against her cheek, his touch tender and calming. He gazed down at her with a warm, reassuring smile. "Hey," he whispered, his voice gentle. 

"Hey," she replied, her own smile tugging at her lips. 

Yujin’s eyes sparkled with affection as he leaned in closer. "You’re beautiful. And perfect."

Wonyoung blushed at the compliment, her heart skipping a beat. "You too," she managed to say, her voice soft. 

Yujin’s lips curled into a teasing grin. "I’m beautiful?" he asked, playfully raising an eyebrow. 

Wonyoung couldn’t help but laugh, the sound easing the tension in the air. She was grateful for the lightheartedness, for Yujin’s ability to make her feel comfortable even in this vulnerable moment. "You’re handsome," she corrected with a smile, her laughter settling into something softer, warmer. 

Yujin chuckled and lowered himself onto her, his body pressing gently against hers. The weight of him felt comforting, grounding her. She could feel his cock between her legs, the length of him hot and hard as it pressed against her thighs, brushing against her pussy. The sensation made her heart race, her breath catching in her throat. It was something he does often, rub his cock against her bare, but now it’s different, now his cock will finally be inside her.

Wonyoung gasped softly as Yujin brushed the head of his cock against her pussy, feeling how slick and ready she was. His thumb found her clit, rubbing it gently, as if preparing her even more, the sensation sending waves of pleasure through her. "You’re so ready," Yujin breathed, his voice thick with desire. "I want you so much, Wonyoung." His words, full of raw need, made her feel like she was melting under him, her body trembling with anticipation and desire. 

As Yujin kissed her, his lips warm and soft against hers, he lined himself up, his hands gripping her hips firmly. Wonyoung’s heart raced as she felt the head of his cock press against her entrance. Instinctively, she parted her legs wider, welcoming him as best she could, though her body was tense with nerves and excitement. Her fingers dug into his shoulders, clinging to him for comfort and support as the foreign sensation of his cock pushing into her overwhelmed her senses. 

At first, it was a slow, steady pressure, an insistent push that made her body stretch to accommodate him. The feeling was shocking, strange — his length was thick and hard, filling her in a way she’d never experienced before. As he eased in further, Wonyoung’s breath hitched. There was a sharp pinch, a heavy stretching ache that came with the unfamiliar fullness of him. She bit her lip, her body tensing at the discomfort, but her mind spun with the realization that they were finally doing it. 

Yujin paused, his breath ragged, watching her face for any sign of pain or hesitation. He kissed her softly again, his hand running soothingly over her skin. "You okay?" he whispered, his voice gentle, full of care. 

Wonyoung nodded, though her body was still adjusting, the pressure and fullness immense. "Yeah," she breathed, her voice shaky but sure. The ache was real, but so was the desire.

He pulled back slightly, and as he glanced down at his dick, he noticed the faint streaks of blood, a subtle but powerful reminder of what Wonyoung had just given him. His heart swelled with a mix of pride and tenderness, but he was careful not to make too much of it. He didn’t want to make her feel self-conscious. Instead, he focused on easing into her again, gently pushing forward. Wonyoung winced, her body still trying to adjust to his size, the sensation intense as she took in more of him. 

“Do you want me to keep going?” Yujin asked softly, his voice full of concern, searching her face for any sign of hesitation. Wonyoung, though feeling the ache between her legs, nodded, determined to let this moment happen. She wanted him — wanted this experience with him, despite the overwhelming sensations flooding her body. 

Yujin went deeper, inch by inch, groaning softly as her tightness enveloped him. “You’re so tight,” he muttered, his voice breathless. Wonyoung felt the heaviness of him inside her, his cock stretching her in ways she’d never felt before. The ache was sharp but bearable, and as her body slowly adjusted, she could feel the pulsing heat of her core wrapping around him. It was a strange, intense mix of pain and pleasure, her body working hard to accommodate his thickness. 

With a final push, Yujin slid fully inside her, and she felt his hips press against hers, the fullness of him finally complete. He leaned down and kissed her tenderly, his lips soft and reassuring against hers. “I’m inside,” he whispered, his breath warm on her skin. 

Wonyoung’s breath came in short gasps as her body adjusted to the sensation. The weight of him inside her felt both foreign and intimate, his cock buried deep within her, their bodies pressed together. She could feel the closeness, the vulnerability of it all, and yet there was something beautiful about it. Yujin’s gentleness, the way he held her, made her feel safe even in this unfamiliar experience. 

Her eyes welled with tears as her body adjusted to the intense sensation of Yujin inside her, her breath coming in shallow gasps. The raw closeness of it all was overwhelming, the way their bodies connected unlike anything she had ever experienced before. Tentatively, she flexed her hips towards him, testing the sensation, still in disbelief at how intimate and close they were. 

Yujin kissed her softly, his lips reassuring as her fingers tightened on his shoulders. “Keep going,” she whispered, her voice trembling. She gasped sharply when Yujin eased out of her, the emptiness foreign and strange. But then, with a low curse, he slid back into her, filling her once again, making her wince as her body stretched to accommodate him. The fullness was intense, the pressure building each time he thrust into her. 

“God…” Wonyoung breathed, overwhelmed by the sensation. As Yujin moved slowly inside her, the sharp ache began to fade, replaced by a deep, pulsing sensation that spread through her core. He filled her over and over, each thrust sending a wave of pleasure rippling through her body. The fullness was all-consuming, as if every inch of her was responding to him. 

Yujin groaned above her, his breath heavy as he fought to maintain control. “I won’t last long,” he muttered, his voice thick with strain. “You’re so tight…” 

He began to thrust harder, his pace increasing as he drove into her, his body pressing closer. Wonyoung gasped, her breathing quickening as the sensations overwhelmed her. She could feel his head pressing into the crook of her neck, his warm breath against her skin. Each thrust was more intense than the last, sending shockwaves of pleasure and pressure through her. 

“I’m going to come,” Yujin groaned, his hips moving faster, almost slamming into her now. Wonyoung’s body tightened around him, her own pleasure building as she held onto him. A moment later, Yujin groaned deeply, his entire body tensing as he came, holding her close, their bodies locked in the most intimate embrace. 

Yujin let out a breathy chuckle, his lips still close to her neck as he whispered, “God…” His voice was hoarse, and his chest rose and fell with heavy breaths. After a moment, he slid his hand up to her face, gently pulling her closer. Their lips met in a tender kiss, both of them still panting, the aftershocks of what had just happened coursing through them. 

Wonyoung’s mind felt hazy. She didn’t even know if she had come or not — everything had been so intense, so overwhelming. The feeling of Yujin’s dick inside her had been so new, so pleasurable and strange at the same time. When he pulled away, he looked at her apologetically. “Sorry I finished before you,” he said, his voice soft. “I couldn’t help it — you were so tight.” 

She shook her head quickly, reassuring him. “It’s okay.” 

Yujin smiled at her, brushing a stray hair from her forehead. “Don’t worry,” he said, his tone teasing but gentle. “We have all night.” 

Wonyoung blinked in surprise. She hadn’t realized until that moment that he was still inside her, though he wasn’t as hard anymore. But the thought that they might go again made her heart race. Then, she felt him slowly slide out of her, leaving her feeling strangely empty and sore. She winced slightly at the sensation, her body still sensitive from everything. Yujin rolled onto his back beside her, discarding the condom in the trash bin nearby. The room was quiet, save for the sound of their heavy breathing. 

Wonyoung lay there, feeling a mix of emotions—her body tingling with an unfamiliar sensation. Everything had felt so intense, so different from what she had expected. Yujin turned to her, his face full of concern. “Are you okay?” he asked softly. 

She nodded, still trying to process everything. “Yeah…” 

“How do you feel?” he asked, his eyes searching hers. 

Wonyoung hesitated for a moment, then she sighed, biting her lip. “Honestly? A little overwhelmed.” 

Yujin’s face fell, worry creasing his brow. “Overwhelmed?” 

She quickly shook her head, reaching out to touch his arm. “Not in a bad way!” she clarified. “It was just… strange. Painful, but also… hot. And different. I didn’t know what to expect.” 

"Don’t worry, we have all night," Wonyoung’s heart fluttered with both excitement and nervousness. The thought of how many rounds they could go on their first night flashed through her mind — would it hurt again? Or would her body adjust more easily? She felt a swirl of curiosity and anxiety. 

With Giselle’s advice in mind, Wonyoung slipped out of bed and went to the bathroom to pee, remembering, always pee after sex. The whole experience still felt surreal. As she sat there, she replayed everything in her head, a quiet disbelief settling over her. She wasn’t a virgin anymore — something she had held onto for so long was now part of her past. But she didn’t feel any different. She blinked at herself in the mirror, her reflection looking the same, yet everything felt changed. 

When she returned, they lay side by side, Yujin glancing around her room. He remembered the last time he had been here, how he’d wondered what it would be like to sleep with her. Now, not only had they shared a bed, but their first time had happened in the personal, quiet comfort of her own room — something intimate, special to both of them. His eyes roamed over the familiar space: no TV, just a desk, shelves lined with books, and a small vanity. It was simple, organized, and so very her. Then his gaze landed on the stuffed toy he had given her, nestled among her pillows. A soft smile crossed his lips. 

Wonyoung’s thoughts drifted again. She had just had sex. It felt crazy to think about, but at the same time, she didn’t feel dramatically different. It was just… a thing that had happened. But now, something had shifted between her and Yujin. Now they could have sex whenever they wanted. No more waiting, no more wondering. The idea of it — of being able to share that kind of intimacy so easily — sent a thrill through her. Her stomach tightened with the realization. Does this mean our intimacy will always lead to sex now? She wasn’t sure how she felt about that, but the idea stirred something deep inside her, a low ache between her legs. 

Again? Really? she thought, a slight laugh bubbling in her chest. She chastised herself with amusement, but joy swirled in her stomach as well. Yujin turned toward her, noticing her smile, and his hand brushed lightly against her skin. There was a new sense of freedom between them, a closeness that neither had experienced before. And it made the night feel endless, full of possibility. 

Yujin slid his arm around Wonyoung's shoulders, pulling her closer. Wonyoung’s fingers instinctively rested on his chest, feeling the gentle rise and fall of his breath beneath her hand. Their bodies still buzzed with the lingering warmth of their earlier intimacy, and the silence between them felt comfortable, like a shared secret. 

"What was your old room like?" Yujin asked softly, his voice breaking the quiet. 

Wonyoung smiled faintly, her mind wandering to the past. "Smaller than this, but it was decent. Cozy," she replied, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. "We didn’t have much space, but not bad." 

Yujin nodded, his fingers absently tracing patterns on her arm. "Have you always lived in that house?" 

"Yeah," she said. "But it was time for us to move, especially with me going to law school and my parents wanting a nicer place." 

"What about you?" she asked, glancing up at him. "Have you always lived in your house?" 

Yujin grinned, the corners of his eyes crinkling slightly. "Yeah, always. It’s been the same place since I was little." 

"But your family travels a lot," Wonyoung pointed out, her curiosity growing. "It must’ve been nice, getting to see different places." 

He chuckled softly, shaking his head. "Yeah, my parents do get little breaks here and there, especially when my mom feels burned out from work. She loves vacations — it’s the only way she gets my dad to take a break. He’s a workaholic." 

Wonyoung nodded, understanding the balance between work and escape. "And how did you end up working for my mom?" Yujin asked, turning the conversation back to her. 

She laughed lightly, the memory of her internship beginning to surface. "I sent a resume, and I was willing to take any position. I think your mom was testing me a lot at first, seeing if I was serious about it. She gave me all kinds of challenging tasks, but eventually, I proved myself. She’s helped me a lot since then, especially with scholarships. I’m forever grateful to her." 

Yujin smiled warmly, hearing the admiration and gratitude in her voice. "My mom can be tough, but she’s fair. She must’ve seen something special in you." 

Wonyoung’s gaze softened as she reflected on Mrs. An’s support. "She did, and I’m thankful for that." 

Curiosity flickered across her face, and she tilted her head slightly. "But why haven’t I seen you around the office? If your mom runs the place, I’d think you’d visit more." 

Yujin laughed, rubbing the back of his neck. "I rarely go there. Every time my mom summons me, it’s to scold me about something," he admitted with a sheepish grin. "But... I’m glad I went that day." His expression softened, his eyes locking with hers. "Because I saw you again, after we met at the gaming café." 

A blush crept up Wonyoung’s cheeks at the mention of their second meeting. "That was unexpected," she murmured. 

"Maybe," Yujin said, his voice tender, "but I think it was meant to be. We were meant to be together." He smirked playfully, his eyes sparkling with mischief as he leaned closer to Wonyoung. "You know," he began, his tone teasing, "maybe my mom knew what she was doing when she hired you." 

Wonyoung raised an eyebrow, curious but smiling at his sudden shift in tone. "Oh? And what do you mean by that?" 

Yujin grinned wider, clearly enjoying where this was going. "Well, she probably figured you’d be the perfect future daughter-in-law." He winked, his voice dropping to a soft, conspiratorial whisper. "That’s why she hired you." 

Wonyoung’s eyes widened for a split second before she burst out laughing, covering her face with her hands. "Oh my god, Yujin!" she exclaimed, shaking her head in disbelief. "You’re ridiculous!" 

Yujin laughed along with her, clearly pleased with himself. "What? I’m just saying, she already knew. She is way ahead of us."

Wonyoung swatted his arm playfully, still laughing. “You are way ahead of yourself.”

"Hey, it could be true," Yujin shrugged, still grinning. "She hired the most amazing person in the world. You wait when we are older, we will get married."

Wonyoung chuckled softly as she looked into Yujin’s eyes, her hand tracing the outline of his jaw. "I never thought," she began, her voice soft and filled with affection, "that the childish, arrogant guy I met that night at the gaming cafe would be the guy I’d fall in love with." Her gaze softened even more, a playful smirk tugging at her lips. "And the guy I’d end up giving my virginity to." 

Yujin’s face lit up with a wide smile. "I’m honored," he teased, though there was sincerity in his tone. 

Wonyoung grinned back. "You were really persistent, you know." She shifted slightly, her heart swelling as she continued. "But... now I love you so much." 

Yujin’s expression softened, and he brought his hand to her cheek, brushing a loose strand of hair away from her face. "I love you too," he whispered, his voice tender, "so much." 

He leaned in, pressing his lips gently against hers. His hands moved softly over her body, brushing over her stomach, and she felt his fingers slowly trailing lower. Her body tensed ever so slightly in anticipation, a shiver of excitement running through her. 

Yujin felt her slight tension, and his hand paused as he pulled back slightly to meet her gaze, concern flickering in his eyes. "Are you sore?" he asked gently, his voice filled with care as he searched her face for any sign of discomfort. 

Wonyoung shifted her hips experimentally, testing how her body felt, and then smiled softly. "Maybe just a tiny bit," she admitted, "but I’m fine." 

Yujin smiled down at her, his eyes playful yet filled with desire. "Good," he murmured, shifting his weight as he settled on top of her again. He pressed his lips to hers, kissing her deeply, their tongues moving in sync. After a moment, she felt the familiar pressure of the head of his cock brushing against her entrance once more. 

Wonyoung blinked, a little taken aback. "What are you doing?" she asked softly, a hint of teasing in her voice. 

Yujin grinned mischievously, his fingers sliding down between her legs, rubbing gently over her pussy. "Do you really think I’d let you go after just one round?" he asked, his voice low and sultry. "A true gentleman makes sure his woman comes." 

His fingers found her clit again, stroking it in slow, teasing circles. Wonyoung gasped, her body reacting immediately, her breath catching in her throat. The sensitivity between her legs flared up, but it wasn’t unpleasant — it was a tingling, building pleasure that spread through her core. 

"Are you ready for another round?" Yujin whispered, his voice filled with confidence. As his fingers continued to tease her clit, Wonyoung could feel herself getting wetter, her body responding to his touch, anticipation bubbling up inside her once again. 
 
Her lips parted slightly, her heart racing. She gave a small nod, her body already answering for her, the familiar heat swirling in her belly. 

Yujin paused for a moment, his body hovering over hers, and then he grinned mischievously. “Wait,” he said, moving off her slightly as he reached for the nightstand. Wonyoung watched as he grabbed another condom, his fingers fumbling as he tore it open. 

But before he could slide it on, Wonyoung reached out and gently placed her hand on his wrist. “No condom this time,” she said softly, her voice steady but laced with a hint of nervousness. 

Yujin paused, his hands mid-motion as he tore open the condom packet. He looked at Wonyoung, his brows knitting in surprise. "Wait, what?" he asked, his voice uncertain, a hint of disbelief in his tone. His eyes widened, clearly taken aback. "Are you sure?" he asked, his voice softer now, as if gauging the seriousness of her decision. "You trust me that much?" 

Wonyoung nodded, a small smile on her lips. "Pull out," she said. "And I’ll take a pill after just to be sure." 

Yujin hesitated for a moment, his eyes searching hers, as if trying to read her mind. But when she didn’t waver, he slowly discarded the condom, tossing it aside. "Okay," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. "I’ll pull out." 

As Yujin positioned himself over her again, Wonyoung’s mind raced with thoughts. She couldn’t help but recall the feeling of him earlier, almost half of his cock wrapped in plastic, the other half bare. She remembered the sensation of warmth from the base of him, how much more real it felt when his skin was against hers. It had been strange, but in a way that made her crave more — something raw, intimate, something that would make this moment feel even more like theirs. 

She thought back to what Giselle had told her about guys, how they knew when they were about to come because they were so used to it from masturbating. Wonyoung’s curiosity stirred, wondering if it really would feel better like she imagined, without the barrier of the condom. She wanted to know, wanted to feel him completely, without any layers between them. 

Yujin couldn't believe what he was hearing. Oh my god,  his mind racing with excitement. Of course he had wanted to do it bare, to feel her without any barriers, to truly be one with her. The idea of feeling her warmth, her slick walls around him with nothing in between was overwhelming, but he’d never dared to suggest it, thinking it would be too much to ask. He had worried it would be inconvenient for her to get on birth control, but now that she had said it herself? This was everything. Best Christmas ever!

Yujin pulled her closer, kissing her deeply as he reached for the blanket, tugging it over them to shield them from the cool air. His lips moved gently against hers, but his hand had already found its way back down between her legs, rubbing her pussy in slow, careful strokes. “Nice and wet,” he murmured, his breath hot against her lips. 

Wonyoung slid an arm around his neck as he touched her, her body instinctively responding to his gentle teasing. As she felt his erection press against her pelvis, her pussy began to throb with anticipation. Yujin, noticing the way her body reacted to him, smirked slightly and whispered, “Get wet for me.” 

His fingers slid inside her, and he immediately felt how wet she was — her body already preparing itself for him. He pulled his hand away, resting it on her hip as his cock lined up with her slick entrance. “Let me know if you’re too sore,” he said softly, his voice full of care as he leaned forward, ready to ease into her. 

Wonyoung nodded, bracing herself as she felt the familiar pressure of his cock pressing against her opening. It hurt again at first, like her body had closed up completely since earlier, but it wasn’t as overwhelming as before. She was able to adjust more easily this time, her body remembering the sensation, aware that the initial sting would soon fade. The sharp ache dulled quickly, replaced by the feeling of being filled again, this time without anything between them. It felt more intimate, more real, and the thought of it sent a shiver down her spine. 

Yujin slid further inside her, his hips meeting hers as he gently buried himself deep within her. “You feel amazing,” he whispered, his lips brushing against her neck as he began to move slowly, careful to let her adjust fully. 

Wonyoung gasped, her breath coming out in sharp, shallow bursts as Yujin began to move. The intensity of the sensation — him inside her, nothing between them — felt so good. Yujin cursed under his breath, feeling how slick and warm she was. The fact that they were skin to skin now, bare, only made the feeling more intense for both of them. Wonyoung let out a low groan, her body reacting instinctively to the heightened pleasure, the warmth of his cock filling her completely. 

She could feel every inch of him, his length, his thickness pressing into her as he began to move faster, each thrust more urgent than the last. “God, you feel so good,” she whispered, her voice shaky with pleasure. Yujin responded by kissing her deeply, their lips moving together as they lost themselves in the moment. 

The stretch, the fullness — everything felt so much more vivid now that he was bare inside her. The pain that had been there moments before had faded completely, leaving only pure, delicious pleasure in its wake. Wonyoung couldn't help but tighten her legs around him, pulling him closer, feeling him press even deeper. 

Yujin groaned against her mouth, his hands gripping her hips as he thrust into her, their bodies moving in sync. "You’re so tight," he whispered against her lips, his voice thick with arousal. Wonyoung moaned softly in response, her fingers digging into his back as her pleasure built, wave after wave of sensation flooding through her. She couldn't get over how big he felt inside her, how perfectly he fit. Each movement sent sparks of pleasure coursing through her, and she could feel herself growing wetter with every thrust. 

The connection between them, the raw intimacy of it, only fueled their arousal further. Yujin moved with more intensity now, his pace increasing as he drove into her, and Wonyoung could feel her body responding in kind, her moans growing louder as the pleasure mounted. "Yujin..." she breathed, her voice trembling as she clung to him, their bodies entwined in a perfect rhythm. 

Wonyoung's moans grew louder, her breath hitching with each of Yujin's steady thrusts, his rhythm deepening and hitting her just right. She kissed him back, her lips trembling against his as she moaned into his mouth, her body reacting to every thrust. Yujin could hear the music of her pleasure, the soft, breathless sounds making him lose control even more. 

Her body began to tense, that familiar knot of pleasure building deep inside her. Her moans grew louder, her heart pounding in her chest as she felt herself nearing the edge. "Yujin," she gasped, her voice quivering with urgency. And then it happened — his cock hit that perfect spot, sending her over the edge. She came hard, her body shuddering as waves of intense pleasure crashed over her. 

Her pussy clenched desperately around his cock, gripping him tight as her back arched off the bed. Yujin groaned, feeling the tightness and warmth of her pulsing around him. "God, you feel so good," he whispered against her neck, his lips brushing her skin as he continued to move inside her, drawing out her orgasm. 

"You're so tight, Wonyoung," he murmured, his voice hoarse with arousal. "You're gripping me so hard..." She hugged him tighter, her fingers digging into his back as her body trembled from the overwhelming pleasure. A moment later, Yujin felt himself nearing his own release. He pulled out of her with a low groan, stroking himself quickly as he hovered over her. 

With a few more strokes, he came, his breath catching as he released onto her belly, the hot sensation making her shiver slightly. 

After wiping his cum off her with tissues, Yujin tossed them aside and pulled the blanket over them, wrapping Wonyoung in his arms as they lay together in the warmth of her bed. Their skin pressed together, warm and comforting after the intensity of the night. The room was quiet, save for the soft breathing between them, and the snow had started falling gently outside the window. 

Wonyoung looked out, noticing the delicate snowflakes swirling in the moonlight. "It's snowing," she whispered with a smile, her voice soft and full of wonder. "This night feels so romantic." 

Yujin glanced outside too, then back at her, brushing a strand of hair away from her face. "Yeah," he agreed, his voice low and tender. He could feel the warmth of her body, the closeness making him feel like nothing else mattered but this moment. 

"In my own room, on Christmas night, snowing outside, with my first love," Wonyoung mused, her words filled with a quiet awe. "It feels magical." 

Yujin's chest swelled with pride and joy, a sense of contentment washing over him. He never imagined being this happy, never thought that being so close to someone could feel this perfect. He kissed the top of her head, holding her tighter, feeling like the luckiest guy in the world. "I'm really happy too," he murmured, his heart full. 

Wonyoung snuggled closer to him, her body completely at ease. She felt secure, safe in his arms, and completely comfortable with her own body in a way she hadn’t felt before. There was no more awkwardness, no more uncertainty. Just the warmth of Yujin beside her and the soft glow of Christmas night wrapping them in its magic. 

Chapter Text

During those three days alone at Wonyoung’s house, Yujin and Wonyoung found themselves completely immersed in each other, exploring every aspect of their newfound intimacy. The passion between them was electric, and they were both intoxicated by the thrill of touching, feeling, and learning about each other’s bodies. 

The following morning, till buzzing with arousal from the night before, Yujin woke her up with soft kisses trailing down her body. They explored the intimacy of slow, sensual spooning, Yujin pulling her body flush against his as they rocked together under the sheets. She moaned softly as he entered her from behind, his lips brushing against her ear as he whispered sweet nothings, making the experience even more intense. They spent hours like that, taking their time, exploring every inch of each other, the rhythm of their bodies in perfect sync. 

They began experimenting slowly, savoring every touch and kiss. They were nervous yet excited, trying new positions that made them feel more connected. Yujin gently guided Wonyoung on top of him, letting her set the pace, watching her gain confidence as she moved. The sensation of her warm body pressed against his, combined with the intensity of her gaze, left him breathless. She felt his cock deep inside her from a new angle, and it ignited a spark in both of them, making Wonyoung feel powerful and in control for the first time. 

The rest of the day, it was clear they were both addicted to each other’s touch, unable to keep their hands off one another. They tried new, more adventurous positions, laughing and teasing each other along the way. Yujin hoisted her legs up as he took her against the bed's edge, marveling at how beautiful she looked beneath him, while Wonyoung bit her lip, enjoying the deeper connection of each thrust. Later, in the shower, they washed each other’s bodies, only for Yujin to push her against the cool tiles, the hot water cascading over them as he entered her from behind again. The thrill of doing it somewhere new only added to the heat between them. 

The third day was a mix of tenderness and wild passion. They couldn’t stop — addicted to the way their bodies fit together so perfectly. They made love in her desk, Yujin lifting her onto her study table, her legs wrapped around his waist as she pulled him closer. They had a moment of playfulness when Wonyoung teased Yujin for always wanting more, but the intensity in his eyes told her how much he loved being with her this way. They tried more adventurous positions, pushing each other to new limits — her legs wrapped around his shoulders as he plunged deeper inside her, her gasps echoing through the room. 

By the end of those three days, they had learned every inch of each other’s bodies, explored new sensations, and bonded in a way that made them inseparable. It wasn’t just about the sex; it was about the connection, the trust, and the overwhelming desire to be close to one another in every way possible. The intimacy they shared was intoxicating, leaving them both feeling like they couldn’t get enough of each other. 

***

With the new year starting, they had celebrated with both of their families, who were nothing but supportive of their relationship. Now, as life settled back into its usual rhythm, Wonyoung had returned to work at the law firm, and Yujin found himself eagerly waiting for her each day. 

One evening, after Wonyoung finished her shift, they were hanging out in Yujin’s room. The warmth of his dorm was a stark contrast to the biting cold outside. They sat together on his bed, Wonyoung leaning against him, talking about everything and nothing. 

"We’re going back to school soon," Yujin said after a moment, breaking the comfortable silence. "Only two weeks left." He glanced over at her, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "What do you think about traveling before we go back?" 

Wonyoung raised an eyebrow, turning her head to look at him. "It’s freezing cold. Where do you want to go?" 

Yujin shrugged, a grin forming on his face. "We can go somewhere warm. Like out of the country for a weekend. Thailand, Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia… You choose. We can leave Friday night and come back early Monday morning. Just a quick escape before we dive back into classes." 

Wonyoung bit her lip, thinking it over. The idea sounded tempting. A weekend in the sun, away from the cold and a way to relax before they go back to school, with Yujin by her side. It almost seemed too good to be true. 

"How much is it going to cost?" she asked, practicality kicking in. 

Yujin waved a hand dismissively. "Don’t worry about it. I’ll pay for it." 

But Wonyoung shook her head. "No, if we’re going, I want to pay for something. Either the hotel or the tickets. We’ll split it." 

Yujin smiled at her insistence, knowing she wouldn’t let him cover the entire trip. "Okay," he agreed, leaning over to kiss her forehead. “You should cover the cheapest one. And no arguments,” he said, with a playful wag of his finger.

Wonyoung rolled her eyes with a smirk and said, “Okay, deal.” 

Yujin wiggled his feet even more, his excitement spilling over. “I’m so excited! It’s going to be our first trip together — alone!” His eyes gleamed as he looked at her, and a grin slowly spread across his face. “It’ll be just like those three days alone at your house.” 

Wonyoung immediately recognized that look — the same mischievous grin he wore when he was thinking about something dirty. She burst out laughing and grabbed a pillow, throwing it right at his face. “Is that what you’re looking forward to, huh?” she teased, her cheeks slightly flushed. 

Yujin caught the pillow, laughing, and held it against his chest. “Well, it will be like a little honeymoon,” he teased, winking at her. “Aren’t you excited? Like, really excited?” His voice dropped into a playful tone, his eyebrows waggling suggestively. 

Wonyoung shook her head, still laughing at his goofy antics, though a part of her did feel a little thrill at the idea. “Of course, I’m excited,” she said, her smile softening. “It’ll be a nice break before we go back to university. Just us… relaxing. No exams. No work.” 

Yujin leaned closer, his grin still smug, “And maybe… a bit more of what we’ve been doing, right?” He chuckled, winking again, making her roll her eyes, but she couldn’t stop smiling. 

***

Yujin had spent the afternoon with Wonyoung's parents, nervously sipping tea and answering all their questions. At first, they were skeptical — after all, this was their daughter, and they weren’t sure about the idea of her traveling alone with a guy. But Yujin, with his warm smile and sincere words, charmed them. He promised them that he would take care of Wonyoung and ensure their trip would be safe and memorable. By the end of the visit, he had won them over with his sincerity for their daughter and his respectful attitude.

Wonyoung didn’t know any of this yet, as she was busy working at the law firm. But when she got the news from her parents later that night, she couldn’t help but smile, impressed by Yujin's efforts. 

A few days later, with Wonyoung paying for the hotel and Yujin covering the flights, they found themselves in Vietnam. Their first day was filled with new experiences — wandering through the bustling streets, trying authentic Vietnamese coffee, Bahn Mi sandwiches, and warm bowls of pho.

At the War Remnants Museum, Yujin and Wonyoung moved slowly from exhibit to exhibit, their initial excitement about exploring turning into quiet reflection. The walls were lined with photographs — images of destruction, suffering, and loss. They saw pictures of innocent civilians, children, and soldiers caught in the chaos of war. Some images were so raw that they both felt a heavy weight in their chests. 

Wonyoung’s fingers gently tightened around Yujin’s hand as they stood in front of a particularly haunting photo of a family torn apart by the violence. "It’s heartbreaking…" 

Yujin nodded, his brow furrowed as he looked at the images of devastation. "Yeah… It’s hard to imagine what people went through. War just… destroys everything. Lives, families, entire communities…" 

They exchanged a glance, both feeling the same somber realization: war only brought pain. As they continued through the museum, the mood between them was quiet but deeply reflective. It was a reminder that while they were fortunate enough to travel and explore new places together, so many people had faced unimaginable hardships. 

That night, as they lay in bed together in their hotel room, the city lights twinkling outside, they talked about how incredible the trip had been so far. Wonyoung snuggled into Yujin's side, her head resting on his chest as she sighed contentedly. "It’s so nice, traveling like this… with you," she murmured, tracing her fingers along his arm. 

Yujin smiled, his hand gently stroking her hair. "Yeah, it’s been amazing," he said softly. Then, with his usual excitement, he added, "Let’s plan the next one already, though. You know, get cheaper flights and hotels if we book in advance!" He grinned at her, his eyes sparkling with excitement for their future adventures. 

Wonyoung chuckled, lifting her head to look at him. "You’re already thinking about the next trip?" she teased, but her smile was warm, knowing that she loved this side of him. 

"Of course!" Yujin said, laughing. "This is only the beginning. I want to see the world with you." He leaned in and kissed her forehead. "So, where to next? Let’s plan something for the summer already." 

"I don’t know yet. But don’t you have an internship lined up for the summer?" 

Yujin groaned playfully, "Oh shoot, you’re right! But maybe before that? We could go for a week — longer this time. And we can save up." 

Wonyoung agreed. "We should definitely save." 

Yujin grinned mischievously. "I already started." 

"Started what?" 

"I have another savings account. For us. You know, for dates, gifts, travels — all the good stuff." 

"Wow, you’re prepared and thinking ahead. Look at you!" 

Yujin chuckled, puffing up proudly. "Of course! I gotta be ready for everything."

But Wonyoung shook her head. "I want to contribute too. I’m putting money in that account with you." 

"No need! I got it covered." 

"I insist," Wonyoung said firmly. "We’re in this together, right? So we save together. For our future." 

Yujin’s eyes widened, his heart fluttering at the mention of "our future." His thoughts started racing, imagining the possibilities — savings now for dates and travel could someday become savings for a wedding, for a house, for a life together. His face broke into a wide grin, his heart swelling at the thought. 

Noticing his smile, Wonyoung playfully poked him. "What are you smiling about?" 

Yujin blinked, trying to play it cool. "Nothing, nothing." 

But Wonyoung wasn’t letting him off that easily. "I’m putting money in, whether you like it or not." 

Yujin sighed, relenting with a grin. "Okay, fine." 

"It’s good for our future," she said softly. 

Yujin nodded, his heart racing at the words, and he echoed, "Yeah, for our future." The thought of building something lasting with Wonyoung made him feel more certain than ever that he wanted to spend the rest of his life with her. He gently hovered over her, brushing a strand of hair from her face as he whispered, “But for tonight… I want you right now.” 

Wonyoung’s breath hitched at the sound of his voice, and before she could respond, Yujin leaned in, capturing her lips in a slow, sensual kiss. His hands roamed over her body, tugging at her shirt, and soon their clothes were discarded in a heated rush, leaving them bare to each other. 

His lips traveled lower, leaving a trail of warmth down her neck and stomach until he reached her thighs. Yujin’s eyes were dark with desire as he gently guided Wonyoung onto her back, spreading her legs softly, his gaze never leaving hers. He kissed her inner thighs, sending small tremors through her body as he slowly made his way down. When his lips reached her center, he paused for a moment, breathing her in, before pressing his mouth against her in a way that made her gasp. 

His tongue flicked out, teasing her clit with gentle, slow circles, and Wonyoung’s body reacted immediately, her back arching slightly off the bed. Yujin continued, his tongue skillfully alternating between long, slow licks and firm, focused attention on her most sensitive spot. Every stroke of his tongue made Wonyoung’s breath hitch, her fingers tangling in the sheets as the pleasure started to build. 

“Oh…” she breathed, her voice soft but full of need. 

He smiled against her, encouraged by the sound of her voice, and began to increase the pressure, his tongue moving faster, more insistently. He flattened his tongue against her, moving in steady, rhythmic strokes, while his fingers traced patterns on her thighs, holding her in place as her body squirmed under his touch. 

Wonyoung’s breathing became heavier, her moans more frequent as Yujin continued, his focus entirely on her pleasure. Her hips began to buck gently against his mouth, chasing the release that was building deep inside her. Yujin knew she was close—he could feel the way her body tensed, the way her breathing quickened. 

His fingers joined in, sliding two fingers inside her as his tongue continued to tease her clit. The combination made Wonyoung gasp loudly, her hands flying to his hair as she held him closer. Her hips moved in time with his fingers, her body completely overwhelmed by the pleasure he was giving her. 

“Yujin, I’m… I’m so close,” Wonyoung whispered, her voice trembling as the pressure inside her built to an almost unbearable level. 

Hearing her, Yujin doubled his efforts, his tongue working her clit with precise, rapid flicks while his fingers curled inside her, hitting the perfect spot. Wonyoung’s breath hitched, her body tensing as that tight knot of pleasure deep within her began to unravel. 

Then, with a loud, breathless moan, Wonyoung came hard, her body shaking as waves of pleasure crashed over her. Her hips bucked against his mouth as her orgasm washed over her, her fingers gripping the sheets tightly. Yujin didn’t stop, his tongue continuing to lick her gently, drawing out every last bit of her release until she was trembling beneath him. 

Not wanting to be the only one receiving, Wonyoung gently pushed him back, guiding him onto his back. She leaned down, taking him in her hand before slipping her lips around his hardening length. Yujin groaned, his body responding instantly to the sensation as she sucked him, building him up until he was throbbing with need. 

When Yujin was hard enough, he couldn't wait any longer. He pulled her up, their eyes locking with an intensity that spoke volumes. Wonyoung wrapped her legs around his waist as Yujin positioned himself, and with one smooth motion, he slid inside her. The familiar warmth and tightness made them both moan in unison, their bodies syncing perfectly as Yujin began to thrust into her. 

Yujin positioned himself between Wonyoung’s legs, his hands gently lifting her thighs as he lined up with her entrance. He paused for a moment, looking into her eyes, sharing a silent moment of intimacy before he slowly pushed inside. Wonyoung let out a soft gasp as she felt him stretch her, the familiar and now comforting sensation sending waves of pleasure through her. 

Her legs instinctively wrapped around his waist as Yujin leaned over her, his hands resting on either side of her, supporting himself as he began to move. His thrusts were slow and deliberate at first, letting them both savor the sensation. Wonyoung moaned softly, her hands gripping his arms, her head tilting back as her body welcomed him. 

Wonyoung marveled at how incredible it felt every time they made love. It was as if each time was better than the last, and she couldn't get enough of him. Ever since that first night, they had found themselves craving each other, taking every chance they had to be close like this. It had become their secret world, a beautiful connection they shared whenever they could, and she loved it. 

Yujin’s thrusts began to pick up pace, and Wonyoung’s breath quickened in response, the steady rhythm sending waves of pleasure through her body. She moaned softly, her hips rising to meet his movements, matching his pace. Her thoughts blurred as the pleasure built, and all she could focus on was the feeling of him inside her, the way their bodies moved together so perfectly. 

Yujin’s hands slid down to grip her hips, lifting her slightly for deeper thrusts. The angle made Wonyoung gasp, the intensity of the sensation making her toes curl. Her body responded eagerly to his every move, her moans growing louder as he quickened his pace, thrusting into her with a steady rhythm that made her head spin. 

"God, you feel amazing," Yujin whispered, his voice low and rough with desire as he gazed down at her, his eyes dark with lust. 

Wonyoung could only nod in agreement, too lost in the pleasure to form words. Her thoughts scattered as Yujin moved inside her, and all she could focus on was the overwhelming bliss they created together. She knew she would never get tired of this, of him — of the way their bodies connected so perfectly, the way they could lose themselves in each other every time. 

As Yujin's thrusts grew more urgent, Wonyoung clung to him, her nails digging into his back as her body tightened with the building climax. Each movement brought her closer to the edge, and she could feel her muscles beginning to tense in anticipation of release. 

“Yujin…” she moaned, her voice breathless, as her body began to tremble beneath him. 

Yujin groaned in response, his hips moving faster as he chased his own release, determined to take her over the edge with him. The feeling of her tight, wet heat around him drove him wild, and he couldn’t get enough of her. 

Feeling the edge approaching too soon, pulled out for a moment, taking a breath to collect himself. He gently guided Wonyoung to turn around, positioning her on her hands and knees in front of him. Her back arched slightly, her soft skin glowing under the dim light as she gripped the sheets beneath her. 

He ran his hands along her waist, his fingers lingering on the curve of her hips as he positioned himself behind her. With a steady breath, he aligned himself with her entrance and slowly pushed inside again, filling her deeply with one firm thrust. Wonyoung gasped, the new angle intensifying the sensation, making her moan louder as she felt him deeper than before. 

The pace he set was slow and deliberate at first, savoring the feeling of being inside her like this. Yujin’s hands slid up to her waist, gripping her firmly to hold her steady as he began to move with more purpose. Each thrust was more intense, the angle sending waves of pleasure rippling through Wonyoung’s body, her moans becoming more frequent, her grip on the sheets tightening. 

Yujin leaned forward, pressing soft kisses along her spine as he moved, his lips trailing up to her shoulder. One of his hands slid around to cup her breast, his fingers gently fondling the soft skin, brushing against her nipple as he continued thrusting into her from behind. The added sensation made Wonyoung moan louder, her body trembling with each movement as the pleasure built inside her. 

Her hips pushed back against him, meeting his thrusts eagerly as they moved together in sync. Yujin’s groans filled the room, the sound of their bodies colliding becoming more frantic as the pleasure intensified. His hand continued to fondle her breast, his fingers teasing her nipple while his other hand held her firmly in place by her hip. He moved faster, thrusting into her with more urgency. He couldn’t get enough of the way she felt around him, the way her body responded so perfectly to his every touch. 

Wonyoung moaned his name, her back arching even more as she felt the pleasure climbing higher. The combination of his deep thrusts and the way his hand played with her breast sent her over the edge, her body tightening with the overwhelming sensation. 

As Yujin continued to move inside her, his own pleasure building, Wonyoung let out a breathless moan, her body trembling as her climax approached again. Yujin’s pace quickened, his grip on her hip tightening as he chased his own release, driving into her with more intensity. The sound of her moans and the way her body clenched around him was pushing him to the brink. 

As Yujin felt himself nearing the edge, he pulled out quickly, guiding Wonyoung to lie down on her back. His breathing was heavy as he positioned himself over her, holding back just enough to savor the moment. With one last stroke, he released, his warm cum spilling onto the outside of her pussy, his hand gently stroking her thigh as he finished. 

Wonyoung gasped softly, her body still tingling from the sensations they shared. Yujin leaned down, pressing a soft kiss to her lips as they both lay there, breathing heavily, the warmth of their bodies mingling in the quiet aftermath. 

***

After their weekend trip, Yujin and Wonyoung quickly settled back into their university routine in Seoul. They returned to packing their bags for classes, studying late into the night, and sharing cozy moments in Yujin’s dorm as if they were a married couple. It felt comforting.

One weekend, Wonyoung arrived at Yujin’s dorm with a large duffel bag in hand. "Is it okay if I wash my underwear here?" she asked casually, setting the bag down. 

Yujin blinked, a bit confused. "Of course," he said, "but is something wrong?" 

Wonyoung let out a small sigh. "There’s an underwear thief in our dorm," she explained, her voice filled with discomfort. "Everyone is weirded out, and it’s creepy. I haven’t lost anything, neither have Liz or Giselle, but honestly, I’m scared." 

Yujin's brow furrowed, his expression darkening. "A panty thief?" he repeated, his protective instincts kicking in. "That's messed up." 

He stood up, pacing a little before turning back to Wonyoung. "You should definitely do your laundry here from now on," he said firmly. "No need to risk it over there. Those bastards," he muttered under his breath, clearly irritated. His protective stance made Wonyoung smile softly, feeling reassured by his concern. 

"Thanks," she said, appreciating how serious he was about it. 

Yujin shook his head. "No need to thank me. I just don’t like the idea of anyone creeping around your place like that. It’s better you stay here." He said it as if it was a matter of fact, his eyes filled with sincerity. 

Wonyoung reached out to gently touch his arm, soothing him. “We talked about this, remember? I’ll stay here every weekend, just like we agreed. You don’t need to worry.” 

“I know, but your dorm doesn’t feel safe anymore. I want you to be here where I can protect you,” Yujin replied, his tone  still holding a hint of frustration. 

Wonyoung smiled softly, appreciating his concern. “Don’t be angry. I’m okay. And besides, you’ve already done so much to make me feel safe and loved.” 

She felt warm at how protective he was but knew she still couldn’t move in full-time. She wasn’t ready to explain that to his parents yet. It wasn’t that she didn’t want to — it was more that she felt shy about taking such a big step. She didn’t want to think they are taking advantage of Yujin.

***

One morning, Yujin received a text from his mother while he was idling in his class. She had attended a meeting with a client near his university and invited him and Wonyoung for dinner. Excited, Yujin immediately texted Wonyoung, who was still in class. 

Yujin: Mom’s here near campus and wants to have dinner with us! Fancy steak place. You in?

Wonyoung: Of course! I’ll finish class in an hour. Can’t wait!

Yujin smiled to himself, eager for a nice dinner with his two favorite women.

***

At a steak restaurant, Yujin and Wonyoung sat side by side, while across from them was Yujin’s mother, Ji-Young. The conversation flowed casually about school, studies, and life updates. But then Yujin suddenly dropped a bombshell: “You know, Mom, there’s an underwear thief at the girls’ dorm. It’s so creepy.” 

Ji-Young immediately reacted with surprise and disgust. “What? That’s horrible!” she exclaimed. “Wonyoung, you should stay with Yujin. It’s not safe there.”

Yujin, sensing an opportunity, quickly jumped in, “Exactly, Mom! Wonyoung should stay with me. There’s a pervert lurking around the dorms, and she needs to be safe.” 

Ji-Young, already concerned, firmly agreed with her son. “Wonyoung, you can’t take chances with safety. Stay with my son — what’s the point of Yujin going to the gym and bulking up if he can’t protect his girlfriend?” 

Wonyoung, feeling a bit flustered, tried to explain, “I’m okay in the dorm, really. Nothing’s happened to me yet.” Yujin is exaggerating everything and she knows why.

But Ji-Young wasn’t having it. “Sweetheart, we don’t wait for bad things to happen. It’s better to be safe. Besides, Yujin’s place is comfortable, and you’ll be together. It just makes sense.” 

As the meal wound down, Ji-Young, smiled warmly at both of them. She set her glass down gently and leaned forward. 

“You know,” she said, looking between Yujin and Wonyoung, “I’m not treating you two like kids because you’re both adults now. I trust you know what you’re doing.” 

Wonyoung blinked, suddenly feeling her face heat up, unsure where the conversation was going. Yujin, too, froze for a second, his fork halfway to his mouth. 

Ji-Young smiled, continuing, “I just want to remind you both to be safe.” She gave them a pointed, yet gentle look. 

Both Yujin and Wonyoung flushed red instantly, their eyes darting to their plates. Yujin coughed awkwardly, scratching the back of his head. Wonyoung, trying to keep her composure, couldn’t help but feel her heart race. She hadn’t expected Yujin’s mother to be so direct. 

“Mom!” Yujin muttered, trying to laugh it off, but his embarrassment was clear. Wonyoung bit her lip, cheeks still burning, but a small smile tugged at the corners of her mouth. 

Ji-Young chuckled at their reaction. “Don’t be shy. I’m just saying. You two are a couple, and I’m not blind. Just… be responsible, okay?” 

“Yeah, Mom, we got it,” Yujin replied, his voice steadying a bit. 

***

Later that night, as the last of Wonyoung’s clothes were tucked into Yujin’s drawer, Yujin couldn’t hide the triumphant grin on his face. He leaned back against the bed, arms crossed, looking thoroughly pleased with himself. Wonyoung noticed his smug expression and rolled her eyes playfully before lightly smacking his forehead with her hand. 

“Why are you so happy?” 

Yujin rubbed his forehead, still grinning. “Because I am! You finally moved in... even if it’s temporary,” he said with a wink, turning around to wrap his arms around her from behind. He rested his chin on her shoulder, nuzzling against her softly. 

Wonyoung laughed at his childlike excitement. “It’s not permanent,” she reminded him, leaning into his embrace.

“Yeah, yeah,” Yujin murmured, tightening his hold on her as he spoke into her ear. “But still... I like having you here. It feels right.” He kissed her cheek. “Don’t leave... stay here.” 

Wonyoung turned her head slightly, meeting his eyes. “Let’s see,” she replied with a playful smirk, pretending to leave the door open on the decision. 

Yujin let out an exaggerated sigh, but the contented smile on his face remained. He gave her a gentle squeeze, burying his face in the crook of her neck. “I’m not giving up,” he whispered. 

***

It was early on Valentine’s Day, the sun barely peeking over the horizon, but Wonyoung was already up, quietly moving around her dorm kitchen. She had decided weeks ago that she wanted to surprise Yujin with something special — something homemade. Buying chocolates felt too easy, and she knew Yujin would appreciate the thoughtfulness if she baked something herself. After all, they had shared so many sweet moments together, and this was her way of making Valentine’s Day even more personal. 

She had found a simple recipe for chocolate cupcakes, complete with heart-shaped sprinkles, and set to work measuring out the ingredients, mixing the batter with a content smile on her face. As she poured the mixture into cupcake liners, the door to the kitchen swung open, and Liz and Giselle walked in, yawning and rubbing their eyes, clearly surprised to see Wonyoung already at work. 

"Wonyoung? Is that really you?" Liz teased, her tone playful as she walked over to inspect what Wonyoung was doing. "I swear, you're turning into a housewife." 

Giselle, equally amused, leaned against the counter with a smirk. "Yep, baking for her husband now. You've come such a long way, Wonyoung. From rejecting Yujin to being the doting girlfriend, baking cupcakes for him on Valentine’s Day? What a plot twist." 

Wonyoung felt her cheeks flush at the teasing, but she couldn’t help laughing with them. “Stop it, you two,” she said, shaking her head as she carefully slid the cupcake tray into the oven. “It’s not like that... well, maybe a little,” she admitted with a shy grin. “But I just thought it would be nicer to bake something myself, you know? It’s our first Valentine’s together.” 

Liz and Giselle exchanged knowing looks, both of them grinning ear to ear. “Sure, sure,” Liz said, crossing her arms. “First Valentine’s and you’re already baking for him. I can’t wait to see what you’re going to do next year!” 

Wonyoung rolled her eyes playfully, but her smile stayed in place. She liked this. It was funny to think about how far she’d come, from awkwardly pushing Yujin away when he first showed interest to now, standing here, baking for him because she loved him. She was genuinely excited to see the look on his face when he saw the cupcakes. It made her heart flutter. 

“Okay, okay,” Wonyoung said, wiping her hands on a dish towel. “I get it. I’m all in for him now.” 

Liz patted her shoulder. “Well, we think it’s cute. And Yujin’s one lucky guy, that’s for sure.” 

Giselle nodded in agreement. “He’s gonna love those cupcakes. And, honestly, the whole ‘housewife’ vibe is kinda working for you.” 

Wonyoung laughed, shaking her head. “You guys are the worst.” 

But as she stood there with her friends, watching the cupcakes bake in the oven, she felt a wave of happiness. She didn’t mind the teasing, because it was true. Yujin had become so important to her, and she was more than happy to show him just how much he meant — even if it meant being teased like a ‘housewife.’   

***

Wonyoung stepped into the restaurant, her eyes scanning the room for Yujin. Her heart raced slightly, the excitement of the day bubbling inside her. She had everything planned perfectly, down to the last detail — the cupcakes she’d baked waiting for later, and her surprise still tucked safely away in a paper bag. But she wanted to see Yujin’s reaction in person, and she couldn’t wait. 

As soon as she spotted him by the entrance, her face lit up. Yujin stood there, tall and handsome as always, but with an extra layer of charm today. He held a small bouquet of flowers, his usual carefree smile broadening when their eyes met. 

"Wonyoung!" he greeted, stepping forward eagerly. The flowers were a mix of roses and lilies, carefully chosen, just like everything he did for her. "Happy Valentine’s Day!" 

Wonyoung smiled, but as soon as she saw the flowers, she playfully rolled her eyes and crossed her arms. "Yujin... today is my duty! You know yours isn’t until next month on White Day." 

Yujin chuckled, shaking his head as he handed her the bouquet. "I’m not passing up a chance to give you gifts or make you feel special, no matter what day it is. You know that." 

Wonyoung’s smile softened as she accepted the flowers, the sweet scent filling the air around them. He was always like this — so thoughtful and caring. And while she loved that about him, she had planned today to be about him for once. 

“I’ll let it slide this time because these are beautiful." 

Yujin grinned, clearly pleased with her reaction, as they moved to their table. The atmosphere was warm and intimate, perfect for the day, with soft music playing in the background and the hum of other couples enjoying their meals. They ordered their food and began chatting casually.

As the conversation flowed, Wonyoung leaned in slightly, her voice lowering just a little. "I actually prepared something for you too, but... I’m going to give it to you later, when we’re back at your apartment." 

"Oh? Is that so?" 

"Yep. But you’ll have to wait." 

Yujin smirked, leaning back in his chair, clearly enjoying the playful banter. "I’m excited already." 

***

Back at Yujin's apartment, the door had barely clicked shut when Yujin’s excited voice echoed through the hallway. "Where’s my surprise?" he called out, louder than necessary, his eagerness radiating off him as he tossed his coat onto the sofa. 

Wonyoung laughed softly, shaking her head. "Be quiet, will you?" She followed him inside, setting her bag down carefully. 

Yujin’s eyes darted to the paper bag she was holding, and with a playful grin, he pointed at it. "It’s in the bag, right? I knew it!" 

Wonyoung rolled her eyes, thinking to herself that he was way too obvious, but she was amused by his enthusiasm. She reached into the bag and pulled out the small box, holding it out to him with a soft smile. "Happy Valentine’s Day," she said sweetly. 

Yujin accepted the box, his eyes wide with anticipation as he opened it quickly. Inside, nestled neatly in rows, were six chocolate cupcakes, each one perfectly frosted. His face lit up the moment he saw them. "Did you... make these?" he asked, turning to her with genuine surprise. 

Wonyoung nodded. "Yeah, this morning. I figured it would be more special than buying chocolates." 

Yujin stared at the cupcakes for a moment as if he couldn’t believe she had baked them herself. "Wow, they look amazing," he said, admiring the detail. Then, with his typical mischievous grin, he looked up at her. "I’m going to eat everything tonight." 

Wonyoung’s eyes widened in mock horror. "No way! That’s too much sugar for one night!" she said, laughing. "You should eat one or two a day, okay? Pace yourself." 

“Let's eat some now for dessert.”

"Fine, fine. But only a couple," she said, giving in, already knowing that Yujin was going to indulge. She handed him a fork, and they both settled on the couch, getting ready to dig in. 

Yujin took the first bite, his eyes lighting up as the rich chocolate flavor melted in his mouth. "Oh my God," he said, with a dramatic sigh of satisfaction. "You’re amazing. These are the best." 

***

On White Day, Yujin wanted to make it special, something intimate and homey for Wonyoung. She had baked him cupcakes the previous month, and now it was his turn to surprise her. After she left for class that morning, Yujin began his preparations. He had planned everything meticulously, from the rose petals he had ordered days before to the candles he would light for a warm, romantic glow. 

During their break between classes, Yujin made an excuse not to see Wonyoung, telling her he had errands to run, when in reality, he was back at the apartment, setting up the final details. As soon as his last class ended, he rushed back to the apartment again.

When he picked Wonyoung up from her evening class, she casually assumed they would go out to celebrate White Day at a restaurant, as they had before. But Yujin just smiled and said, "I have a better plan." 

As they arrived at the apartment, Wonyoung opened the door, her eyes widening at the sight before her. Rose petals were scattered throughout the apartment, leading a delicate path inside. Candles flickered softly, filling the room with a warm, golden light. Yujin stood beside her, lighting the last candle with a lighter. Her eyes also caught sight of a few elegant paper gift bags sitting neatly on the table.

Wonyoung immediately hugged him, her heart swelling at the effort he had put into this. "It's beautiful," she whispered against his chest, feeling the love in every little detail. 

Smiling, Yujin pulled out a bouquet of fresh flowers from behind his back, along with a box of her favorite chocolates. "Happy White Day," he said softly, handing them to her. 

Wonyoung looked at him with so much adoration. "Did you cook?" she asked, curious if he had taken it that far. 

Yujin scratched the back of his neck, laughing a little. "I didn’t want to risk it. But I ordered something nice." 

A few moments later, the doorbell rang, and the delivery arrived — steaks, cream pasta, and freshly baked bread, all of Wonyoung’s favorites. Yujin pulled out her chair for her at the candlelit table and began plating the food with care. 

***

As the semester flew by, Wonyoung found herself still living with Yujin, despite her initial reluctance to move in. What started as a temporary arrangement became the norm, and before she knew it, the routine of living together had settled into something comfortable and deeply satisfying. They woke up together, cooked breakfast side by side, and even went about their studies while sharing the same space. 

Their life together had become effortless, each day filled with small, shared moments. Yujin would wash the dishes while Wonyoung wiped the counters clean; they’d study for hours, sitting across from each other at the small table in his dorm, Wonyoung occasionally teasing Yujin about his notes. At night, they’d curl up together, tangled in each other’s warmth as they drifted off to sleep. 

Time slipped by in this cozy rhythm, and little did they realize, the semester was soon behind them. They both re-enrolled for the second semester, but everything seemed lighter now, as if the weight of exams and deadlines couldn’t overshadow the joy of being together. 

One warm morning, as they were packing their bags, Wonyoung looked out the window and saw the sun shining brightly. The breeze carried the first hints of summer, and the realization hit her — summer break was already here. 

“We’re back in our hometown soon,” Yujin said as he zipped up his suitcase. “Feels like just yesterday we were back here after winter.” 

Wonyoung laughed softly, leaning against the doorframe, watching him with fondness. “It’s crazy how fast time went,” she said, her tone soft, as though marveling at how seamlessly they had lived together. 

Yujin stood up, stretching his arms before walking over to her. He placed his hands on her shoulders, looking down at her with a grin. “Guess we’re headed back home... again.” 

Wonyoung smiled and nodded, her heart warm. “Yeah, back home. Together.” 

They shared a knowing look, both feeling the weight of that word — "home." Because now, being together, it didn’t matter where they were; they had created a home in each other’s company. And as they headed back to their neighborhood town, they couldn’t wait to see what new memories the summer would bring. 

Chapter Text

Yujin and Wonyoung were lounging on his bed, both lying on their stomachs, side by side. Yujin had his laptop open, scrolling through a list of potential companies for his summer internship, and Wonyoung was leaning in to look at the screen as well. The list was long, with options both local and overseas, and they were casually chatting about the possibilities. 

As Wonyoung scanned the list, her eyes fell on a few international companies. "Hey, why not do an internship overseas?" she suggested, pointing at a few listings. "It would really help with your résumé, you know? It’d look impressive." 

Yujin immediately let out a playful whine, rolling over onto his back dramatically. "Nooo, I don’t want to be away from you!" he protested, staring up at the ceiling, a slight pout forming on his lips. 

Wonyoung laughed softly at his childish reaction, though she was serious about the idea. She turned to face him, propping herself up on her elbow. "Yujin, I’m serious. Doing an internship abroad could open so many doors for you. It’s a great opportunity. You should be more ambitious. Think about how much it’ll help when you’re choosing jobs later on," she explained, trying to make him see the bigger picture. 

Yujin sighed, turning his head to look at her with a soft smile. "But I want to intern somewhere close, so I can still work on my music," he said, his voice soft but full of conviction. "I don’t want to give that up." 

Wonyoung sighed as well, feeling torn. She admired his passion for music, but at the same time, she wished he would focus more on his future career. "Yujin, I get that music is important to you. But this internship is about your future, your career," she said, her tone a mix of concern and frustration. "You should be thinking about that more seriously." 

The thought of spending the summer away from her weighed heavy on his mind. His fingers absentmindedly hovered over the overseas listings, and he couldn’t shake the feeling of unease. Why is Wonyoung pushing me towards an overseas internship? Does she really want me to be away from her for the whole summer? The thought gnawed at him, making him feel a deep sense of sadness. 

Two months… even two months feels so long. His chest tightened as he imagined being in a different country, far from the comfort of her presence, her smile, and their time together. The idea of her thinking he should prioritize his career over his passion for music and their relationship hurt even more. Does she not believe in me? Does she think my music won’t ever be successful? 

His thoughts spiraled, and before he knew it, tears were welling up in his eyes. He didn’t even notice at first, too lost in his own emotions. The more he pictured being away from her, the more painful it became. 

Wonyoung, who had been focused on his laptop, turned to him, startled by the sight. "Yujin, why are you crying?" 

Yujin quickly wiped his eyes with the back of his hand, his movements rushed and a bit flustered. "No, I’m not," he mumbled, avoiding her gaze as he wiped away the tears. His voice wavered slightly, betraying his attempt to act like nothing was wrong. 

Wonyoung reached out, gently cupping his face with her hands, her thumb brushing away the remaining tears from his cheeks. "You are," she said quietly, her eyes searching his for answers. "What’s wrong? Why are you upset?" 

Yujin looked into her eyes, his chest tightening even more. He didn’t want to admit the thoughts that had been swirling in his head, the insecurity he felt about her wanting him to be away, or her not believing in his music. He swallowed hard, trying to push the words back down, but the emotions were too raw. "I just… I don’t want to be away from you," he finally whispered, his voice cracking slightly. 

Wonyoung’s expression softened immediately, her heart aching at seeing him like this. "Yujin…" she murmured, pulling him into a hug. She held him close, pressing her forehead against his. "I don’t want you to be away either. I just want what’s best for you. I want you to succeed because I believe in you." 

She wrapped her arms around Yujin, feeling the tension in his body slowly melt away as she held him close. His vulnerability in that moment stirred something deep inside her. Yujin is so soft, a tenderness filling her heart. He’s so easily affected by me, by everything I say… maybe I shouldn’t push him so much. Maybe I’ve been too focused on what I think is best for him and forgot to think about what he really wants. 

A pang of guilt washed over her. She didn’t mean to make him feel this way. Yujin’s sensitive nature and deep care for her were part of why she loved him so much. He’s always thinking of me, always putting us first, she realized, her heart aching for pushing him too hard towards something he wasn’t ready for. 

She pulled back slightly, resting her forehead against his, her hands gently cupping his cheeks. “Okay,” she said softly, her voice filled with warmth. “Let’s find internships that are nearby, ones that work for you.” 

Yujin blinked, his eyes still glistening, but there was a flicker of relief in his expression as he nodded. “Yeah?” 

Wonyoung smiled gently, brushing a strand of hair from his face. “Yeah,” she confirmed, her voice soothing. “We’ll figure it out together. And besides,” she added, her tone shifting playfully as she aimed to lighten the mood, “our first anniversary is coming up soon. We need to be together for that, right?” 

Yujin’s face lit up a little at the mention of their anniversary, the cloud of sadness that had hung over him starting to lift. “Our anniversary…” he murmured, a small smile tugging at his lips. “You’re right.” 

Wonyoung grinned, determined now to see him smile fully again. “Exactly! We’ll celebrate, make it special… and we’ll figure out everything else as we go. No pressure.” 

Yujin hugged her tightly, burying his face in her neck, his spirits lifting at her words. He whispered softly, “Thank you, Wonyoung.” 

***

Wonyoung sat beside Yujin, explaining each company on the list. She highlighted the pros and cons of each, talking about how some offered great opportunities for career growth. But Yujin’s eyes kept drifting back to one particular company — a recording label. Even though the internship would place him in the business division, he couldn’t help but feel drawn to the idea of being close to the music world. His mind wandered, imagining himself hanging around musicians, soaking in the atmosphere, and maybe sneaking a peek into the creative side of things. 

Just as he was about to point to it and make his choice, Wonyoung interrupted his thoughts. She tapped on the screen, her finger landing on a big media and entertainment company. 

“This one,” she said, “It’ll look really good on your resume.” 

Yujin glanced at her, noticing how determined she seemed about it. He asked, “Is that what you want me to pick?” 

Wonyoung nodded. “I just think it offers more in the long run, suits with your creative side too.” 

He paused, feeling torn between what he wanted and what Wonyoung believed was best for him. After a moment, he sighed and smiled softly, “Okay, I’ll apply for that.” 

In the back of his mind, he tried to reassure himself. Maybe it’s not a bad thing. Wonyoung is smart and always know what to do. The company was big, after all, and there was a chance he could still get involved in the music division. Maybe he could explore the world of composing for multimedia projects or dive into music marketing. Yujin clung to that thought, letting it settle in as a small spark of excitement for what could come. 

***

Yujin’s internship was unlike anything he had expected. Although he'd always been a bit lazy and carefree, something shifted as the summer rolled in. Maybe it was the fact that he was maturing — or perhaps it was the subtle encouragement from Wonyoung — but Yujin found himself genuinely trying to embrace the experience. 

His internship, working in the business division of a large media and entertainment company, wasn’t exactly his dream of making music all day. Still, it gave him a new perspective on how the industry worked behind the scenes. Yujin spent his days sitting in on meetings, organizing documents, assisting with project timelines, and learning how the corporate side of the industry operated. He felt out of his depth at times, but there was a strange sense of satisfaction whenever he completed a task or contributed something useful. It wasn’t his forte, but he put in the effort, knowing that this was a stepping stone in his career. 

After long days at the office, Yujin always made time to unwind with Wonyoung. Their evenings were often spent sharing meals and stories from their day. Sometimes, they’d head back to Yujin’s house, where his parents always welcomed Wonyoung like family, and they’d spend the evening chatting or watching TV with his mom. On other nights, Yujin would go over to Wonyoung’s place, sharing dinner with her parents, who had grown fond of him over the past year. 

Despite the growing responsibilities at work, Yujin never let go of his true passion: music. On the nights he wasn’t with Wonyoung, he would retreat to his room, laptop open, headphones on, and work on making beats. Music was his escape, the one thing that kept him grounded amidst the hustle of the internship. He started selling some of his beats online — nothing too big yet, but enough to make him feel like he was still connected to his dream, still moving forward with it in his own way. 

The balance was tough at times — corporate work by day, music by night — but Yujin tried to enjoy the experience for what it was. He knew that maturing didn’t mean giving up on his passions; it meant finding a way to make it all work together. Yujin found himself growing more comfortable with the idea of responsibility, even if it wasn’t something he always enjoyed. 

Still, in those late-night moments, when he was alone in his room, laying down beats with only his thoughts and the flicker of his laptop screen for company, Yujin couldn’t help but wonder where this path would lead him. But for now, he was content, enjoying the summer, the work, and the love of his girlfriend.

***

Yujin and Wonyoung had planned their first anniversary celebration with care, choosing a luxurious hotel to mark the occasion. After a delightful dinner and a relaxing bath, they both found themselves in soft hotel robes, standing close, their bodies still warm from the water. The ambiance was intimate, the glow of the dim lights casting a soft glow over their skin as they kissed slowly, savoring the moment. 

Yujin’s hands roamed gently over Wonyoung’s body as he pulled her closer, whispering between kisses, “I have another surprise for you.” 

Wonyoung, breathless and curious, asked, “What is it?” 

But Yujin didn’t answer with words. Instead, he deepened the kiss, his lips moving down her neck as his hands untied her robe, revealing her bare skin to him. The robe fell to the floor, leaving Wonyoung exposed in front of him. In response, she reached out to undo his robe, her hands brushing against his chest as the fabric slipped off his shoulders. 

That’s when she saw it — a fresh tattoo inked just below Yujin’s left collarbone. It was written in script, and the word made her heart race: Wonyoung. 

Her eyes widened in surprise. “Did you get a tattoo?” 

Yujin smirked, brushing his fingers against the inked skin. “Yeah, I did,” he said, watching her reaction closely. “Are you mad?” 

Wonyoung shook her head slowly, still staring at the tattoo in awe. She reached out and traced her fingers gently over the letters, feeling the slight warmth of the healing skin beneath her touch. “Does it hurt?”

“Yeah,” Yujin replied. “Got it over a week ago.” 

Wonyoung looked into his eyes, her heart swelling with emotion. She couldn’t believe he had done something so permanent, something so personal, for her. Her hands rested on his chest, the tattoo now a part of him — a part of them. She leaned forward, pressing a soft kiss just above the ink, her lips lingering as a quiet way of saying thank you, before meeting his gaze again. 

She looked up at him, eyes softening. In that moment, she felt an immense wave of gratitude and love. The tattoo was more than just ink — it was his way of saying he wanted to be with her forever, that he was serious about their future together. And as she stared into his eyes, she realized she felt the same way. She wanted forever, too. 

“I love you,” Wonyoung said softly.

Yujin’s eyes lit up. “I love you too,” he responded. Without hesitation, he leaned in and kissed her, gently at first, their lips brushing softly as if sealing the words they had just exchanged. 

As they kissed, Wonyoung’s mind kept drifting. Everything was going so smoothly with Yujin. They had found a rhythm in their relationship — sharing their lives, their love, their dreams. Maybe he was right all along, maybe they were meant to be together like this. She could feel it in the way her heart swelled whenever she was with him, how comfortable she felt by his side, how safe and cherished she felt. She wanted this — wanted him — forever. 

***

It had been one year since they started dating - a year felt like a fleeting breeze. Now, with Yujin above her, his body moving against hers with a rhythm that felt like second nature now, Wonyoung could hardly believe how much her life had changed since they met.

Her mind wandered even as her body responded to every thrust. Has it really been a year? Her breaths hitching as Yujin filled her deeply. It feels like just yesterday we were awkwardly hanging out together, stealing shy glances. Now look at us…

Her finger slid up his back, tracing the muscles that flexed and tensed with every movement. She looked up at him - his dark focused eyes locked onto hers, his lips parted as he exhaled heavily. He was so handsome, and hers.

Yujin leaned down, his break warm against her ear as he groaned, the sound sending shivers down her spine. His pace quickened, and she felt her body tighten around him, her senses overwhelmed by the way he moved, the way he made love to her.

“Wonyoung…” he murmured, his voice strained. “Can I… can I cum inside you?”

Her heat fluttered at his words, for a moment, all she could do was stare into his eyes, her mind clouded with the intensity of the moment. She was on the pill; they had talked about it since the first night they had sex, even when he pulls out, they just wanted to make sure. But more than that, she trusted him completely. She loved him.

“Yes,” she whispered. “I want you to.”

The vulnerability in her words spurred Yujin on, his movements growing more deliberate as he buried himself deep inside her. And then, with a final thrust, she felt him still, his body shuddering as he released into her.

The warmth of him spreading inside her was unlike anything. It was intimate, so intimate and it filled her with a sense of closeness she hadn’t known was possible. Her arms wrapped around his shoulders as he collapsed into her, his weight grounding her, their hearts beating in unison.

As Yujin pressed a kiss to her temple. Wonyoung let her thoughts drift again, her hands brushing through his damp hair. Now… I can’t imagine my life without him. I love him so much, it almost scares me.

Yujin pulled back slightly to look at her, his eyes soft and filled with adoration. “Happy anniversary,” he whispered, brushing a stray strand of hair from her face.

Wonyoung smiled, her fingers tracing the curve of his jaw. “Happy anniversary.”

And as they lay tangled together, Yujin was still inside her, both of them panting. Wonyoung knew this was just the beginning of many more anniversaries to come.

***

To extend the celebration of their first anniversary, Yujin and Wonyoung traveled to Japan, taking a trip to Osaka just before the new semester began. Months ago, they had meticulously planned, securing cheaper tickets and accommodations, excited to experience this together. Now, with five days ahead of them in Osaka, they were ready to make the most of every moment. 

At Universal Studios, they found themselves blending in with the fun-loving atmosphere, both dressed in matching yellow shirts and blue jumpers, mimicking the iconic Minions. Wonyoung even had a big eye glasses on. As they walked hand in hand through the park, they couldn't help but laugh at how perfect their couple outfit was, blending in with other people who also were dressed in costumes. The bright colors reflected their shared joy, and Wonyoung teased Yujin, saying how much he resembled a giant Minion with his carefree grin. She couldn't help but giggle every time Yujin exaggeratedly played the part, making silly faces and walking like a Minion. It was easy, fun, and filled with laughter — exactly how they wanted to celebrate their first year together. 

They hopped from one attraction to another. That evening, they found a little restaurant just outside Universal Studios where they enjoyed delicious udon and freshly made takoyaki. Sitting across from each other, Wonyoung and Yujin reflected on their first year together as a couple. Between bites of savory takoyaki, Wonyoung playfully said, “We’ll need to start saving again if we want more trips like this.” 

Yujin smiled and nodded, twirling some udon with his chopsticks. “Don’t worry. I’ll start saving for our next trip right away. Winter break in another country sounds perfect.” 

***

After their trip to Japan, Yujin and Wonyoung returned to the familiar surroundings of the university, the campus alive with the energy of a new school year. 

Yujin, now in his final year and a graduating student. His fourth year had finally arrived, and it felt like both a relief and a challenge ahead. His mother had been ecstatic when he completed his third year without any issues, a regular student now on track to graduate on time. Wonyoung remembered the pride in Mrs. An's voice when she congratulated her son before they left. Wonyoung, meanwhile, was now entering her second year as a law student. With her part-time job at the law firm and the demanding curriculum, this year would be a tough one, but Yujin’s presence gave her comfort. 

As they walked together toward the apartment, Yujin carried a large tote bag slung over his shoulder, full of his notebooks and thesis materials. He was already thinking ahead about his final year project, something he had been talking about nonstop over the summer break. Wonyoung teased him a bit, “You sure you’re not gonna get buried under all that work, Yujin?” 

He grinned, shaking his head. “Nah, I got this. Final year’s gonna be tough, but I’m ready. Besides, I’ve got you to keep me on track.” 

“You’re lucky. Your mom must be over the moon that you’re in your final year already. She’s going to throw a party when you graduate, I bet,” Wonyoung joked, nudging him playfully. 

Yujin chuckled. “She’s already planning it. Trust me. I think she’s more excited about me graduating than I am.” 

***

Wonyoung was finally living with Yujin full time. It had been a long summer of teasing and pleading from him, and despite her initial hesitations, she eventually caved. Yujin had been especially persistent, playfully whining about how it was his last year at the university and dropping exaggerated hints that he wanted to spend as much time with her as possible before graduation. His most ridiculous joke — suggesting that if he didn’t graduate on time, they could finish university together — had earned him an exasperated look from Wonyoung. 

"Maybe if I fail, we can graduate at the same time, babe," Yujin had said, a mischievous grin on his face. 

Wonyoung had shot him an annoyed glare. "That’s not funny, Yujin. You better graduate this year," she’d replied, though secretly charmed by his carefree demeanor. He always knew how to lighten the mood, even when she was serious. 

After many rounds of Yujin’s playful persistence, Wonyoung found herself agreeing to the idea of moving in full time. But before committing, she had one condition — she needed to ask Mrs. An, if it was okay. 

When Wonyoung brought it up to Mrs. An, her boss had smiled warmly and reassured her that it was perfectly fine. “Yujin would be lucky to have you around more often, Wonyoung. A place is always better with a feminine touch. And you know you’re like family to us by now.” 

That comforting approval made the decision easier for her. And so, here she was, unpacking the last of her things in Yujin’s apartment. It was a modest space that they had already spent a lot of time in together, but now it felt different — more like home. 

Yujin was lounging on the couch, watching her organize her books on the shelves. He had a satisfied grin on his face, clearly thrilled that his summer campaign to get her to move in had finally succeeded. "See, this isn’t so bad, right? Now we get to see each other every day." 

“We’re already seeing each other everyday.”

As she finished putting her books away, Yujin stood up and wrapped his arms around her from behind, resting his chin on her shoulder. “Thanks for agreeing to move in. This is going to be the best year yet.” 

***

One day, Yujin came home from class, feeling tired but excited to return to the apartment he now shared with Wonyoung. As soon as he opened the door, he called out, “Honey, I’m home!” 

Wonyoung, who was already in the kitchen chopping vegetables, was a bit surprised but couldn’t help chuckling. She turned to him with an amused expression. “Honey? Are we calling each other ‘honey’ now?” 

Yujin grinned mischievously, dropping his bag by the door. “Yes, we are honey now. It’s official.” 

Wonyoung shook her head, laughing softly. “You’re really enjoying living together, huh? Now you think we’re married.” 

Without hesitation, Yujin walked over to her and wrapped his arms around her waist from behind, hugging her tightly. He leaned in and kissed her cheek with a gentle, affectionate smile. “Well, that’s the path we’re heading down, isn’t it?” he murmured confidently, resting his chin on her shoulder. 

“Oh, really?” she said, playfully raising an eyebrow. “If you really want that, let’s finish school first — and then maybe put a ring on it.” 

Yujin pulled back slightly, just enough to look at her, his eyes lighting up at the idea. “You just wait! I’ll make it happen.” 

“I’ll hold you to that,” she teased, turning back to the vegetables she was preparing for dinner. 

“Deal!” Yujin said with a wink, then rolled up his sleeves. “Now, what are we cooking? Let me help, honey.” 

Wonyoung couldn’t hide her smile, feeling both amused and touched by how naturally things were falling into place between them. “Well, honey, you can start by chopping the onions.” 

Yujin groaned jokingly at the task but grabbed the knife, ready to help. As they worked side by side in the kitchen, there was a new sense of comfort and familiarity, a small glimpse of what their future might look like. 

***

The classroom was buzzing with chatter as Yujin, Yuna, Haewon, and a few others lounged around during their break. The topic of conversation had naturally drifted to career aspirations, sparked by an upcoming career fair in the university. Haewon, being her usual ambitious self, spoke up first. 

"I want to work in a top company. Somewhere like Samsung or Fungmu. Something with prestige, you know?" Haewon declared confidently, leaning back in her chair. She looked around, clearly expecting admiration. 

Yuna chimed in next, her usual enthusiastic tone filling the room. "I think I'd thrive in an entertainment company! Maybe a media agency or even an influencer management firm. I can see myself handling PR for artists or even being on camera. You know me — I love the spotlight!" 

The group chuckled, knowing full well that Yuna’s vibrant personality was perfect for the entertainment industry. 
Yujin, sitting quietly, smiled at his friends' answers but didn’t say much. He nodded along, but his mind was elsewhere. What’s my dream? He asked himself. The thought weighed on him for a moment as he listened to everyone’s ambitions. 

My dream isn’t that complicated, he thought. I just want to live comfortably. Have passive income... maybe run a small business that lets me make money while I sleep. And make music — he sighed internally, just like I’ve always wanted. If I can make a hit song or two that generates royalties, that’s enough. Something low-stress. 

He frowned slightly, realizing how it sounded in comparison to the ambitious dreams his friends were talking about. Am I lazy? Maybe. But that's the kind of life I want. 

He glanced over at Haewon, who was now discussing the benefits of working at a big corporation with someone across the room. He could almost hear Wonyoung’s voice in his head, analyzing his thought process. What would she say if I told her this? 

Wonyoung, with her law school dreams, her discipline, her drive — it felt worlds apart from his simpler desires. Would she think I’m just coasting? 

And then there were his parents. His mother had always supported him, but he could imagine the pride she’d have if he got a prestigious job offer. His dad, too, would probably have a few things to say about "settling." They’ve worked hard their whole lives. Would they be disappointed if I told them I just want to make music? 

Before he could think further, Yuna nudged him. "Hey, Yujin! What about you? You’ve been quiet over there." 

Yujin blinked, his train of thought derailed. He shrugged with a casual grin. "Honestly, I haven’t really decided yet. Maybe something in music... or business. I’m still figuring it out." 

Haewon raised an eyebrow, glancing at him curiously. "You should figure it out soon, Yujin. It’s competitive out there.”

Yujin nodded, feeling a bit of pressure but keeping his relaxed demeanor. "Yeah, I know. I’ll discuss it with Wonyoung later. Maybe she has some ideas for the kinds of companies I should be considering." 

***

It was late at night, and the apartment was dimly lit by the soft glow of their bedside lamp. Yujin and Wonyoung lay comfortably in bed, tangled up in each other’s. They had spent the evening talking about their day and sharing quiet moments, but now Yujin had something else on his mind.

As he shifted slightly and turned to face Wonyoung, he said, “Hey, you know that career fair thing I mentioned? It's happening tomorrow for graduating students.” 

Wonyoung, who was lying on her side, propped herself up on an elbow and smiled softly. “Oh, that’s nice. Which companies are going to be there?” 

Yujin hesitated for a second, then started listing off some of the big names. “Well, there’s Hyundai, Kakao, Samsung… and Fungmu, I think.” 

Her eyes lit up at the mention of Fungmu. “Fungmu? That should definitely be your first choice! It’s the richest and top company in the country. Imagine working there!” 

“Didn’t they have a stock scandal a few years ago?” 

Wonyoung waved her hand dismissively. “Yeah, but they seem to have bounced back. I mean, it’s always nice to work for the top company, right? That kind of stability, prestige, and opportunity — it’s what anyone would want.”

 He smiled awkwardly, biting back the truth he didn’t really want to say out loud. Fungmu? Sure, it sounded impressive, but the truth was, Yujin had his eye on something else — a smaller recording label, one that specialized in the kind of music he actually wanted to produce. Something more aligned with his passion, not just chasing status. 

But seeing Wonyoung’s enthusiasm, he didn’t want to disappoint her. She was always so driven, always encouraging him to aim higher. So, he nodded and said with a small, uncertain smile, “Yeah… I guess I’ll try to get into Fungmu then.” 

Wonyoung’s face lit up in delight. Her wide smile was so beautiful, and before Yujin could say anything else, she leaned forward and kissed him softly on the lips. “Good. That’s my boyfriend, really maturing and ambitious now,” she teased, her eyes sparkling with pride. “Wanting to work at the biggest company in Korea.” 

Yujin smiled back, a little sheepish but happy to see her so pleased. He kissed her again, then pulled her closer, wrapping his arms around her. As they settled back into the bed, Yujin’s thoughts lingered on the conversation. Fungmu, huh? He knew that wasn't really his dream, but maybe he could still find a way to make both Wonyoung and himself happy. 

As their kiss deepened, Yujin felt Wonyoung’s warmth radiating through him. Her soft lips pressed against his with a mix of tenderness and passion, and he could feel her hand gently resting on his chest. 

Yujin’s thoughts began to swirl. I want to make her happy. I want to give her everything. His heart swelled with love and a sense of responsibility. Wonyoung had always been there for him — supportive, driven, and unyielding in her belief that he could do great things. And he should do what she wants.

As he held her close, Yujin thought about their future. She deserves the best life, the kind of life she dreams of. A stable, successful career, a beautiful home… everything she’s worked so hard for. He wanted to give her that life. And if that meant setting aside some of his simpler desires for now, maybe it was worth it. He’d do anything to see her smile like this. 

Wonyoung pulled back slightly, her lips brushing his as she whispered, “I love you.” 

“I love you too,” Yujin whispered back, his voice low but full of meaning. He looked into her eyes and felt a quiet determination building within him. I’m going to make her proud. I’ll give her the life she deserves. 

A few moments later, the room was filled with soft whispers and the sound of fabric falling to the floor. Yujin’s heart raced as he admired Wonyoung beneath him, her skin glowing softly in the dim light. His fingers trailed gently across her, savoring every inch of closeness. 

His mouth descended, he pressed a soft kiss on her collarbone, then down her chest, each touch filled with a quiet reverence. He could feel Wonyoung's breath hitch as his lips grazed her skin, her body responding instinctively to his touch. Every kiss was slow, thoughtful. He wanted this to be special for both of them. 

Wonyoung’s fingers curled in his hair, her soft gasps encouraging him further. As they moved together, her soft moans filled the space between them, her body arching into his touch. The passion between them was undeniable, yet it was wrapped in tenderness, a reflection of their love and the trust they’d built over the past year. 

After they made love, Yujin stilled inside her, both of them breathing deeply, their bodies warm and intertwined. The room was quiet except for the sound of their hearts beating in sync. Yujin's mind wandered as he held her, the weight of their earlier conversation lingering in the back of his thoughts. He thought about the career path ahead of him, about the expectations Wonyoung had for him, and the dreams he secretly held onto. 

He felt a strong sense of trust in Wonyoung's decisions, knowing she always had his best interests at heart. Her belief in him, her confidence that he could succeed at a top company like Fungmu, made him feel like he needed to step up, to be the man she saw in him. 

I'll do what she wants, he thought, I'll go for it, try to land a job at Fungmu. But deep inside, he still couldn't shake his desire to make music. His love for it hadn't faded, and he knew it never would. 

As they lay in each other's arms, Yujin made a quiet promise to himself. He would work hard to make Wonyoung proud, to build a stable future like she wanted. But he also knew that when they went back to their hometown, he’d find time for his music, working on new ideas and creations in the quiet of his room, just like he always had. 

With that resolve, he kissed Wonyoung softly on her forehead, grateful to have her by his side, and drifted into sleep, determined to be the man she wants him to be.

***

The career fair was buzzing with activity, students dressed in formal attire holding bags of brochures and promotional items from the biggest companies in Korea. Yujin moved through the crowd with a focused expression, making his way to the most prominent booths first — Samsung, Fungmu, Kakao, and other top-tier companies that Wonyoung had told him to prioritize. 

He greeted the recruiters with polite nods, collected brochures, and listened as they spoke about their career programs. As he took mental notes, he thought about how proud Wonyoung would be that he was seriously considering these opportunities. She had high expectations for him, and Yujin wanted to meet them, even if part of him wasn’t entirely sold on the idea of working at a massive corporate conglomerate. 

After spending a good amount of time at the top company booths, Yujin glanced around the room. His eyes landed on a smaller booth at the edge of the hall — a recording label. It was nothing flashy like the bigger names, but it stood there quietly, a few students hovering around, seemingly intrigued. 

Yujin hesitated, standing a few feet away. It's just a brochure, he thought. No harm in grabbing one, right? Just in case… He weighed the idea in his mind. It wasn’t like he was actually planning to apply to the label — not yet, at least. But the thought of pursuing music professionally tugged at him. It had always been his dream, and as much as he respected Wonyoung's opinion, he couldn’t help but feel the pull towards something more creative, something that aligned with his passion. 

Just as he was about to turn away, Yuna suddenly appeared out of nowhere, jumping in front of him with a mischievous grin. “Hey!” she greeted with a laugh, startling him. 

Yujin blinked, taking a step back. "Oh—hey, Yuna," he said awkwardly, trying to shake off the surprise. 

"You look lost, Yujin," Yuna teased, crossing her arms. "Thinking deeply about something, huh?" 

Yujin scratched the back of his neck, trying to play it cool. "Oh, it’s nothing," he said, forcing a casual tone. But before he could make up another excuse, Yuna followed his gaze, her sharp eyes landing on the recording label booth he had been staring at. 

A smirk spread across her face as if she had just discovered a juicy secret. "Oh, I see," she said with a playful tone. "You’re looking at that booth, huh?" 

Yujin’s heart skipped a beat, and he quickly shook his head. "What? No, no, it's not like that!" he stammered, feeling his face heat up with embarrassment. 

"Liar," Yuna said, rolling her eyes with a grin. Before Yujin could protest, she looped her arm through his and started dragging him toward the recording label booth. 

"W-wait, Yuna, seriously—" Yujin protested but Yuna wasn’t having it. 

"You want to apply for this, don’t you?" she asked confidently, glancing at him with a knowing look. 

Yujin shook his head, trying to maintain his composure. "No! I mean... it's just... you know, I'm just curious," he muttered, feeling cornered. 

Yuna chuckled, not buying it for a second. "Yeah, right," she said. "Let’s go check it out." 

Before Yujin could protest any further, they were already standing in front of the recording label booth. A friendly recruiter greeted them, handing out pamphlets to students and answering questions. Yuna immediately jumped in, firing off questions with ease. "So, what’s the career process like here? And how does one get started in the music production side of things? Marketing?" she asked confidently, while Yujin stood beside her, listening but feeling out of place. 

There were other students gathered around, also interested in the music industry, which made Yujin feel a bit more at ease. Still, his mind raced. Yuna, oblivious to his internal struggle, kept chatting away with the recruiter, while Yujin nodded occasionally, pretending to be cool, though his heart was beating faster than usual. 

After they wrapped up the conversation, the recruiter handed them both brochures. Yuna took one and promptly handed it to Yujin. "Here, this is for you. I know you’ve been eyeing this the whole time." 

Yujin took the brochure awkwardly, feeling like he had been caught red-handed. "It’s... just options," he mumbled, his voice trailing off. "Backups, you know... just in case." 

Yuna laughed, lightly tapping him on the shoulder. "Yeah, yeah. Sure, Yujin." 

As Yujin slipped the brochure into his bag, his heart raced again, like he was holding onto a secret he wasn’t supposed to have. He gave Yuna a half-hearted smile as they walked away from the booth, but deep inside, the thought of applying to the recording label was beginning to take root more than he wanted to admit. 

***

Yujin and Yuna sat down on a park bench near campus after, the cooling the air as they unwrapped their churros. Yuna took a big bite and watched Yujin, who was still lost in thought. She nudged him playfully with her elbow. 

"Hey, why were you hesitating so much earlier?" Yuna asked. "It's just a brochure. What's the big deal?" 

Yujin shrugged, trying to brush it off. "It’s nothing," he muttered, taking a small bite of his churro. 

Yuna raised an eyebrow, not buying his excuse. "Clearly, you wanted it. So what’s your deal? Why are you acting like grabbing a brochure is some life-altering decision?" She laughed lightly but kept her eyes on him, genuinely wanting to know. 

Yujin sighed, feeling the weight of her words. "It's just... impractical, you know?" he said quietly. 

Yuna burst out laughing, almost choking on her churro. "Impractical? Working at a recording label? Yujin, have you heard yourself?" She shook her head, still smiling. "You’ve got skills, man. I follow you on SoundCloud, and your beats are good." 

"Really? You think they’re good?" 

"Yeah, definitely," Yuna said with a nod, taking another bite of her churro. "How’s that going for you, anyway?" 

Yujin shifted awkwardly in his seat. "I’ve worked on some stuff for small indie artists. Nothing big or fancy. Just trying to put myself out there, challenge myself a bit." 

Yuna tilted her head. "And what does Wonyoung think about all that?" 

Yujin hesitated for a moment, his voice turning softer. "Wonyoung... she’s busy. She hasn’t really heard much of my stuff. I mean, she only listens to the songs I’ve made for her." 

Yuna rolled her eyes a little. "Listening to a song or two doesn’t take much time. She could do it while commuting or even in the shower." 

Yujin smiled shyly. "She’s got a lot on her plate. Plus, she thinks me pursuing music isn’t practical. Like my parents, she wants me to work at a big company, something more stable." 

Yuna frowned, feeling bad for Yujin. It was obvious that he wasn’t getting the support he needed, not from his parents and not even from Wonyoung, his own girlfriend. "You should do what makes you happy, Yujin. Because if you’re doing what you love, you’re not going to be lazy. You’ll do it with passion, with joy." 

Yujin smiled awkwardly, feeling a mix of comfort and guilt. "Yeah... I know," he admitted softly. "But I understand where they’re coming from too. I get why they want me to aim for something secure, something more... traditional." 

Yuna gave him a long look, her churro forgotten for a moment. "Maybe. But if you don’t follow your own dream, you’ll regret it later." She shrugged. "Just something to think about." 

***

They walked towards the main entrance of her condo. They had just finished their churros. Yujin, hands stuffed in his pockets, glanced over at Yuna. 

"Why aren’t you staying at the dorms?" he asked casually, trying to make conversation. 

Yuna smirked. "I wanted my own bathroom." 

Yujin laughed. "Yeah, that makes sense," he replied, shaking his head. He could totally picture Yuna needing her own space, as independent as she was. 

As they neared the entrance of the building, Yujin slowed down, hesitating for a moment before speaking again. "Hey, thanks... for listening earlier. And for helping me with the brochure thing." He rubbed the back of his neck, his face a bit flushed. "You’re really nice, Yuna. You didn’t have to say you liked my beats, but I... I appreciate it." His words came out a bit awkward, his cheeks turning a slight shade of red as he looked down. 

Yuna rolled her eyes playfully and smacked his shoulder. "Oh, shut up. I didn’t lie, Yujin." She crossed her arms and looked at him firmly. "Your music is good. Just because you don’t hear it from the people you want to hear it from doesn’t mean it’s not true." She gave him a pointed look, as if daring him to disagree. "You should really start believing in yourself more. I hope you realize that soon and chase your passion." 

Yujin’s awkwardness melted a little at her words, and he smiled, still a bit shy. "Thanks, Yuna," he said softly, feeling grateful for her encouragement. He wasn’t used to hearing things like that, and it meant more than he let on. 

Yuna gave him a nod, her usual playful demeanor softening for a moment. "See you tomorrow in class, okay?" 

"Yeah, see you tomorrow," Yujin replied, watching as Yuna waved and disappeared into her condo building. As he turned to head back, he couldn’t help but feel a bit lighter. Yuna’s words echoed in his head, and for the first time in a while, he allowed himself to believe that maybe he was good enough to chase his dream. 

***

The school year flowed smoothly, though the stress of exams often made Wonyoung anxious. During those times, Yujin was her rock, always there to comfort and ground her, reminding her to take deep breaths and focus on one thing at a time. But Yujin, too, was busier than ever. As a graduating student, the pressure was on, but he managed to balance his time between studying, and making sure their shared life ran smoothly. 

To save on food expenses, they developed a routine where they cooked most of their foods together and pack lunches. Yujin had learned a few decent meals from watching Wonyoung, and he took pride in his role, especially in the mornings when he was in charge of breakfast after his gym. 

One morning, Yujin was in the kitchen preparing pre-made pancakes for Wonyoung. The smell of warm batter filled the air as he stood at the stove, his back to the hallway, completely focused on flipping the pancakes. He was topless, wearing only a pair of sweatpants that hung loosely on his hips, his hair still slightly messy from sleep. 

Wonyoung woke up, stretching as she slowly made her way toward the kitchen. She rubbed her eyes, but they soon widened when she saw Yujin. She paused at the entrance of the kitchen, blinking in surprise. It wasn't the first time she'd seen him shirtless, but this time, it felt different. 

Yujin’s topless figure stood by the stove, carefully flipping pancakes. His lean, muscular frame was perfectly defined now, his shoulders broader, his back defined. His gym sessions had clearly paid off, and Wonyoung couldn’t tear her eyes away.

Her gaze wandered over the sharp lines of his abs and his biceps. The sight alone sent a shiver through her body, a warm flush creeping up her cheeks. She hadn’t meant to stare, but there was something about the domesticity of it - her boyfriend, half-dressed and making her breakfast - that was irresistibly sexy.

Wonyoung stood there for a moment, caught in awe, her eyes trailing down the lines of his muscles. She couldn’t help but smile, feeling a sudden warmth in her chest. How had she gotten so lucky? 

Yujin, completely oblivious to her gaze, hummed a little as he flipped another pancake onto the growing stack. "Almost ready," he called out cheerfully without turning around, assuming she was still in bed. 

Wonyoung chuckled softly and leaned against the doorframe, biting her lip. "Yujin..." 

He turned at the sound of her voice and froze when he saw her staring at him. "Morning, honey. Why are you looking at me like that?" he asked, scratching the back of his head, suddenly a bit self-conscious. 

"Just... enjoying the view," Wonyoung teased, her lips curling into a playful smile. "You really do look like you came out of a magazine." 

Yujin’s ears turned red, and he laughed awkwardly, feeling a bit shy.

Wonyoung walked over to him, wrapping her arms around his waist from behind and pressing her cheek against his bare back. "You’re really hot, you know that?" 

Yujin smiled down at her, turning around to hug her back, kissing the top of her head. "Well, I had to keep up with my beautiful girlfriend somehow, didn’t I?" 

Wonyoung laughed, squeezing him tighter. "Breakfast smells good, but I think I’m enjoying this view more." 

Yujin grinned mischievously and with a playful glint in his eyes, he flexed his biceps dramatically, teasing her. "This view?" he said, cocking an eyebrow. "I mean, I did work hard for this." He gently took her hands, guiding them over his chest, down his toned abs, and letting her feel the hard ridges beneath her fingers. 

Wonyoung rolled her eyes, but there was no hiding the smile tugging at her lips as she played along. "You really love showing off, huh?" she teased, running her hands down his abs. The feel of his firm muscles under her touch sent a small shiver through her, but she refused to let him see that he was getting to her. 

Not wanting to back down from his playful challenge, Wonyoung kept lowering her hand, sliding it teasingly below his abs, just grazing the waistband of his sweatpants. Yujin's breath hitched slightly, his smirk faltering for just a moment as he realized what she was doing. Her hands slowly trailed down until her fingers settled on his crotch. Yujin’s breath hitched immediately, and he froze for a second, eyes wide in surprise as she pressed her palm against him. 

He swallowed, looking down at her with wide eyes, a nervous chuckle escaping him. "Whoa, hold on there. You’re playing a dangerous game," he teased, trying to sound confident, but the way his heartbeat quickened gave him away. 

Wonyoung's lips curled into a sly smile as she rubbed him gently, tilting her head slightly. "Why? Can’t handle it?" 

Yujin’s face flushed as he tried to keep up his teasing demeanor, but he couldn’t stop the way his body reacted to her touch. His eyes fluttered closed as he felt himself hardening beneath Wonyoung's touch. Her teasing fingers traced the outline of him, and when her hand slipped inside his sweatpants and underwear, gripping him fully, his breath faltered. The sensation was overwhelming, and a soft groan escaped his lips. 

"Wonyoung..." 

She looked up at him, her eyes gleaming with playful mischief. "Why?" she asked, her voice light and teasing, fingers moving gently but with intent. 

Yujin’s chest rose and fell rapidly as he fought to stay composed, but the feel of her hand, warm and confident, made it nearly impossible. His hips instinctively pushed forward slightly, desperate for more. "You're really... testing me," he managed to say.

Wonyoung’s lips twitched into a smirk, clearly enjoying his reaction. Her fingers stroking him with slow, deliberate movements. She leaned in, her lips brushing softly against Yujin's collarbone, right where her name was tattooed on his skin. The warmth of her kiss sent a shiver down his spine, and his breath hitched as she trailed those kisses slowly up his neck. Each touch, deliberate and teasing, made his heart race faster. 

"We still have time this morning," Wonyoung whispered against his skin, her voice sultry and soft, a teasing edge in her words. "Classes don't start for a while." She smiled, her lips grazing his ear before pressing another kiss just below it. 

Yujin swallowed hard, feeling his pulse quicken beneath her lips. He could feel himself growing more and more aroused with each kiss, her touch both tender and intoxicating. His hands gripped the counter behind him, trying to keep his composure, but she was making it impossible. "Wonyoung..." he murmured, his voice hoarse as he tilted his head back, giving her more access. He could feel the heat between them rising, the playful banter from earlier now giving way to something deeper, something far more intense. 

Wonyoung's hand remained on his body, her fingers continuing to tease him, moving just enough to keep him on edge. "You look so good like this," she whispered, her lips now ghosting over his jawline. "Don't you think we should... take advantage of the time we have?" She smiled against his skin, clearly enjoying the effect she had on him. 

Yujin could only nod, his body responding to her every move. The teasing, the kisses, the way she was looking at him — it was all driving him wild. 

“You’re so distracting, Yujin.”

Before he could respond, she knelt down in front of him, her hands tugging at the waistband of his sweatpants. Yujin’s eyes widened in surprise, his cheeks flushing slightly as she slid both his pants and boxers down. His hardness sprang free, and Wonyoung’s eyes flickered with awe.

Her fingers gliding over his length as she leaned forward, letting her tongue flick against the tip. Yujin’s breath hitched sharply, his hand gripping the edge of the counter for support. 

“Wonyoung…” he breathed, his voice strained as he grew even harder.

Encouraged, she took him deep into her mouth, her tongue swirling around him while her hand worked in tandem. She loved the way he responded - the soft groans that escaped his lips, the way his body tensed and his hips jerked slightly toward her. 

Her movements grew more confident, working to pleasure him. She reveled in the salty-sweet taste of him, the heat and firmness of his length. Yujin’s breathing grew heavier.

Yujin glanced down at her. The sight of her kneeling before him, her lips wrapped around him with such focus, sent a surge of heat through his body.

Wonyoung’s eye met his, and the intensity in her gaze made his knees feel weak. She could feel him throbbing against her tongue, a clear sign of just how much he was enjoying this.

As she continued, her free hand slid up to rest on his hip, steadying him as he struggles to restrain himself. Yujin’s hands found their way to her hair, his fingers threading through the strands as he guided her movements, hips hips involuntarily bucking toward her.

Yujin’s breathing was uneven as he pulled Wonyoung’s mouth away from him. He guided her to stand, his gaze locking onto hers. He lifted her effortlessly, placing her onto the marble countertop.

Wonyoung’s breath hitched as she felt the firm grip of his hands on her hips. He leaned in close, kissing along the curve of her neck, his lips and tongue igniting a trail of heat that made her head arch against him.

“Yujin…” she moaned, his hands roamed up her thighs.

Her silky nightdress was barely a barrier, and Yujin waisted no time. He pushed the fabric up, revealing her legs and the soft cotton of her underwear. His hands paused for a moment, his thumb brushing over her skin. Then with a low growl, he hooked his fingers into the edge of her panties and pushed them aside.

Wonyoung’s heart pounded as he bent down slightly, his broad shoulders settling between her legs. She gasped when she felt the first touch of his tongue, warm as it ran a slow, teasing stripe along her most sensitive area.

Her head fell back, her hands gripping the edge of the counter for support as he repeated the motion, this time with more pressure. Yujin was thorough, taking his time to taste her, exploring her folds and her bud with passion.

He flicked his tongue lightly against her clit, then moved back down, swirling and licking in a way that left her trembling. His hands gripped her thighs, holding her steady as her legs threatened to close around him from the overwhelming sensations.

“Oh my god… Yujin…” 

The contrast between his shyness and restraint earlier and the way he was eating her out now was almost too much. He gave her clit a soft, sucking kiss before returning to long, languid strokes of his tongue. Her fingers found their way to his hair. The pleasure building inside her, her body trembling as Yujin brought her closer and closer to release.

“Yujin, I’m so close,” she managed to gasp.

He didn’t stop. If anything, he doubled down, his tongue and lips working in perfect harmony to push her over the edge. When she finally shattered, her cry filled the kitchen, her body arching off the counter as the pleasure came.

Yujin stood between Wonyoung’s trembling legs. He took the sight of her - flushed, glowing, and completely spent on their kitchen counter. Her thighs still quivered from the orgasm he had just given her, and the slick wetness between her legs glistened invitingly.

He ran his hands over her hips, steadying her as he lined himself up, his tip brushing against her soaked entrance. The feeling of her heat and wetness sent a shiver down his spine, and he bit his lip, his self-control wavering. Slowly, he pressed forward, letting her arousal coat him as he slid into her.

Wonyoung let out a loud, uninhibited moan, her head falling back as she gripped his shoulders for support. Her body already sensitive from her climax, him filling her was intense. Her walls clenched around him, drawing him deeper as he began to move. His hips rolling against hers as he set a steady rhythm. The sounds of their connection filled the small kitchen - the wet slick of her arousal, the soft slap of skin against skin, and the breathy moans that spilled from her lips. Yujin’s hands roamed her body, one gripping her thigh to keep her open for him, while the other slid over her nightdress to palm her breast. He leans down to press kisses along her collarbone as he continued to thrust into her.

She could barely form words, her mind clouded with the overwhelming sensation of him inside. Every movement sent her spiraling further into bliss. And with one final time, Yujin thrust into her, burying himself as deep as he could. The warmth of his release flooding her and making her body tremble.

After their passionate moment in the kitchen, Yujin looked at the now cold pancakes with a teasing grin. "Guess breakfast is ruined," he said, still catching his breath, his voice playfully light. 

"Totally worth it," she replied, shooting him a teasing smile as she brushed her hair behind her ear, still glowing from the intimacy they’d just shared. 

“You think so, huh?” he teased back, his eyes locked with hers, clearly enjoying their playful banter. 

“Mm-hmm," Wonyoung hummed. "But we should probably eat now.” 

Yujin nodded, smirking as he grabbed the now-cold pancakes and quickly reheated them. They sat down at the small table, their plates full of reheated pancakes.

As Yujin poured some syrup over his pancakes, he glanced over at Wonyoung. “Well, next time, maybe we should eat first,” he joked, winking at her. 

Wonyoung laughed, leaning forward to steal a piece from his plate. “Maybe,” she said, chewing thoughtfully. “But this was a great way to start the day.” 

Yujin nodded, his grin widening. “I’m not complaining.” 

Chapter Text

On Friday night, Wonyoung sat on the edge of the couch in their shared apartment, glancing at her phone. The room felt unusually quiet without Yujin around, a stillness settling in that she wasn't used to. He had gone back to his family’s house to grab his motorcycle, finally finding a buyer, and would be back the next day. It was the first night she’d spent alone in the apartment without him, and it felt... strange. 

She curled up on the couch, pulling her knees to her chest. It wasn’t like she hadn’t spent nights alone before, but this apartment, their space, felt different when Yujin wasn’t there. She wondered how he was doing, if he missed her as much as she missed him. She had always been independent, but living with Yujin had changed things — being without him for just one night felt more difficult than she expected. She laughed softly to herself, shaking her head. “You’ve gotten soft, Wonyoung.” 

Later, she crawled into bed, the sheets cool and neatly made on Yujin’s side. Wonyoung pulled one of his pillows close, burying her face into it, breathing in his familiar scent. She felt a wave of warmth and comfort, even in his absence. It was calming but still not the same. 

As she lay there, staring at the ceiling, she thought about how much things had changed since they started living together. She was used to his warmth beside her, the way he’d hold her close before they drifted off to sleep. She sighed softly, grabbing her phone and typing out a quick message: 

Miss you. Come back soon.

She smiled when Yujin’s reply came almost immediately:

Miss you too, honey. Be back tomorrow morning, don’t worry!

As Wonyoung lay in bed, hugging Yujin's pillow, she couldn’t help but chuckle to herself. It was just one night — one simple night apart — and here she was, already missing him. She found it almost amusing how needy she had become with him. A semester ago, the idea of living together seemed daunting, but now, she couldn’t imagine not having him around, even for just a few hours. 

She rolled over, staring at the empty side of the bed where Yujin usually slept. “You’ve really got me wrapped around your finger, don’t you?” she whispered to herself, shaking her head with a smile. It was surprising how quickly things had changed between them. She used to enjoy her own space, her independence, but now the apartment felt incomplete without his easygoing presence. 

Wonyoung thought back to how whiny he’d been all summer, practically begging her to move in with him full-time. She had teased him about it, calling him clingy, but here she was — feeling the exact same way. It was kind of sweet, though, how much they had grown to rely on each other, how comfortable and natural it felt to be together. 

As she finally drifted off to sleep, her thoughts circled back to Yujin. She realized that she had truly fallen for him, deeper than she ever expected. And the idea of spending more nights like this, missing him, made her even more certain — this was exactly where she wanted to be. 

***

Wonyoung stood by the entrance of the café, her hands tucked into her jacket, watching the early morning crowd of students pass by. She shifted on her feet, scanning the parking lot absentmindedly, waiting for Yujin. Suddenly, the deep, unmistakable sound of a motorcycle engine rumbled through the air, catching her attention. She turned her head just in time to see a sleek, black motorcycle pulling into the lot. 

The motorcycle came to a stop, and as the rider kicked down the stand and took off his helmet, Wonyoung’s breath caught in her throat. It was Yujin. He swung his leg off the bike with ease, wearing a fitted leather jacket that accentuated his broad shoulders. The sight of him made her heart skip. He looked effortlessly cool, his tousled hair falling into place as he shook it free from the helmet. A few students glanced his way, undoubtedly admiring the striking figure he cut. 

Wonyoung couldn’t help but smile to herself, feeling a rush of pride as he walked toward her. His eyes lit up when he saw her, that familiar grin stretching across his face. As soon as he reached her, Yujin leaned in and kissed her on the lips, his hands slipping around her waist. 

"I missed you," Yujin murmured against her lips before pulling her into a warm embrace. His scent — of leather and the faint smell of his cologne — surrounded her, and she melted into his hug, feeling the solid warmth of his body. 

Wonyoung let out a soft laugh, wrapping her arms around his neck as she buried her face in his shoulder for a moment. "You and that motorcycle… so hot, Yujin." She pulled back slightly to look at him, her eyes filled with admiration. "I almost didn’t recognize you. You look like a movie star." 

Yujin chuckled, a bit shy despite his confident appearance. "Really? You think so?" he teased, brushing a strand of her hair behind her ear. 

Wonyoung grinned. "Yeah. All the girls are definitely staring." 

"Well, I only have eyes for one," Yujin said, his voice soft, giving her another quick kiss. 

***

Inside the café, Yujin and Wonyoung sat across from each other, the warm glow of morning sunlight spilling through the windows. They shared breakfast - two plates of eggs, toast, and pancakes in front of them. Yujin, still wearing his leather jacket, looked relaxed as he took a bite of his food, while Wonyoung sipped her coffee.

“So, what time are you meeting the buyer for the motorcycle?” 

Yujin glanced up, chewing thoughtfully. “Evening,” he said after swallowing. “The buyer’s got work, so he can’t meet until later.” 

Wonyoung nodded, taking another sip of her coffee before glancing out the window where Yujin’s motorcycle was parked. A playful glint flickered in her eyes, and she leaned forward a little. “Hey, can I hop on?” 

“Wait, what?” He set down his fork, his brow raised. “You wanna ride the bike? I thought you weren’t into that?” 

Wonyoung chuckled, brushing her hair behind her ear. “I wasn’t… at first,” she admitted with a playful shrug. “But since you’re selling it anyway, I figured I should try it at least once. You know, just to experience it. A quick stroll.” Her eyes sparkled with curiosity, as if this was a little adventure she wanted to share with him before the motorcycle was gone. 

Yujin was still in awe, not expecting her to ask for something like this. “You… seriously want to try it?” He had always thought she wasn’t keen on motorcycles, that she’d find them too dangerous or reckless. 

Wonyoung smiled, tilting her head as if to tease him. “Well, you’ve been riding it for years, so I trust you. And besides, when else am I going to get the chance?” She leaned forward with a mischievous glint in her eyes. “Do you have a spare helmet?” 

Yujin let out a soft laugh, feeling warmth bloom in his chest. She was full of surprises. “Yeah, I do,” he said, shaking his head in disbelief. “I just didn’t think you’d ever want to ride with me.” 

“Well, here’s your chance,” Wonyoung teased, grinning at him. “Don’t make me change my mind.” 

Yujin’s heart swelled with excitement and fondness, knowing how rare it was for Wonyoung to step out of her comfort zone like this. “Alright then,” he said, smiling widely. “I’ll take you for a ride.” He could already imagine how it would feel to have her arms wrapped around him, her head leaning against his back as they cruised down the road together, and he already feels happy.

Wonyoung gave him a playful wink. “Good. Let’s finish breakfast first,” she said, picking up her fork with a satisfied smile, clearly looking forward to their ride. 

***

Yujin carefully placed the spare helmet on Wonyoung's head, adjusting it snugly as he smiled. "You look cute." 

Wonyoung blushed a little under the helmet as she got on the bike. Yujin held her steady, helping her hop on, and then turned slightly to face her. "Tighten your arms around my waist," he instructed, placing her hands on his waist. 

She hesitated for a moment before hugging him close, her arms squeezing gently. "Don’t ride too fast, okay?" she said, her voice a little shaky. 

Yujin chuckled. "I won’t. Promise." He felt her hold tighten just a little more, and with a reassuring glance, he started the engine. The low, rumbling purr of the bike filled the air, and they began to pull away from the café. 

As they rode through the quiet streets towards nearby lake, Yujin couldn’t help but smile to himself. A nostalgic feeling crept in. He remembered the day when Wonyoung hopped on his bicycle, her arms around him. It felt a lot like déjà vu now, except this time it wasn’t an old bike — it was a sleek, powerful motorcycle. But as he glanced back at her briefly, he hoped she wouldn't kick the bike this time. I actually need to sell this thing.

Behind him, Wonyoung was a mix of emotions. She felt nervous at first, the unfamiliar sensation of being on a motorcycle making her tense up. But as they sped through the calm roads, she began to relax, the sound of the engine oddly soothing. She could feel Yujin’s body warm and steady in front of her, and with every curve they took, her fear slowly faded, replaced by a sense of adventure. Holding onto him like this made her feel secure in a way she couldn’t quite describe. 

***

As the evening settled in, Wonyoung decided to join Yujin on his motorcycle again to head to the place where they would meet the buyer. After slipping on the spare helmet, she hopped on behind him, wrapping her arms around his waist a bit tighter than before. Yujin felt the warmth of her touch and smirked playfully under his helmet. 

Yujin couldn't help but tease her once they reached a stoplight. "You’re getting fond of this bike now, huh? Should I cancel on the buyer and keep it for a bit longer?" 

Wonyoung chuckled, shaking her head. "No way. I don't want you to keep it — it’s dangerous, remember?" she said, giving his waist a playful squeeze. "I’m just maximizing my time with it before you officially sell it.“

Yujin laughed softly as the light turned green, and they continued their ride toward the meeting point. He loved how Wonyoung was adventurous in small, unexpected ways. "Maximizing it, huh?" he teased, and then with a grin added, "Besides, doesn’t Yujinnie need a future lawyer for the selling part?" 

Wonyoung laughed at his playful tone and leaned in closer as they cruised down the road. "Exactly. You need me to make sure you’re not getting scammed," she teased back. 

Yujin nodded in agreement. "You're right. I definitely need you there. And, after we sell it, I’ll treat you to something nice. What do you think? A fancy dinner?" He turned his head slightly, glancing at her over his shoulder. 

As they pulled into the parking lot of the meeting spot, Yujin parked the bike smoothly and turned off the engine. He removed his helmet, shaking out his hair before helping Wonyoung with hers. They both shared a quick glance, their eyes meeting with an unspoken understanding of how special these little moments were. 

“Ready to make me an honest man and sell this thing?” Yujin joked, giving her a playful nudge as they walked toward the buyer. 

“Always ready to keep you in check.” 

After Yujin successfully sold the motorcycle, he transferred the money to his mother's account as promised. Not long after, he received a message from her — "Good job selling the bike, here's your cut." — along with a small deposit into his account. Smiling at the gesture, Yujin decided to treat Wonyoung to a nice dinner, keeping his word. 

That evening, they arrived at an elegant restaurant, tucked away in a quiet part of the city. The warm lights and soft ambiance were inviting, perfect for unwinding after their eventful day. As they sat down, Yujin grinned across the table at Wonyoung, who was busy admiring the decor. 

"Looks like we’re eating fancy tonight," Wonyoung teased, glancing over the menu. 

"Only the best," Yujin replied, chuckling. "Gotta treat you right for being my 'future lawyer' earlier." 

Wonyoung smiled and playfully nudged him. "I’ll send you the bill later." 

***

Back at their apartment, the soft glow of the nightlight cast warm shadows across the room as Yujin and Wonyoung lay together, tangled in the comfort of each other's presence after making love. The blankets were loosely draped over them, and the sound of their breathing filled the quiet space. 

Yujin’s arm was wrapped around Wonyoung as she rested her head on his chest, listening to the steady beat of his heart. They felt content, but with graduation and the future on their minds, the conversation turned to what lay ahead. 

"I’m graduating next semester. Hopefully.”

Wonyoung nodded, her fingers tracing small circles on his chest. "I know. I’m really proud of you," she whispered, smiling up at him. "I’ll still have another year after that... and then the bar exam." 

"You'll ace that too. I know you will." 

Wonyoung leaned into him more, appreciating his confidence in her. "What about you?" she asked. "What’s next after graduation?" 

Yujin hesitated for a moment, staring at the ceiling. "I’ve been thinking about finding a job around here," he said, tilting his head down to meet her gaze. "That way, we can still live together while you finish law school." 

"Really?" 

"Of course," Yujin said, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "I don’t want to be far from you. Besides, this apartment... it's starting to feel like home, you know? We could keep it a little longer, maybe we can buy this someday." 

Wonyoung smiled softly, warmth spreading through her chest. "I like that idea. A lot," she said, her voice tender. The thought of continuing to share their space, building their lives together, made her feel secure. 

"Right?" Yujin grinned, feeling a sense of excitement about their future. "So we get to keep this apartment, too. No more worrying about rent hikes or moving around. You don’t have to go back to the girls dorm. We’ll just... figure things out." 

Wonyoung chuckled, squeezing his hand. "And you’ll still make me breakfast?" 

"Always," Yujin said, pulling her closer and planting a gentle kiss on her forehead. 

***

Winter break had come around again, and this time Yujin and Wonyoung found themselves in Jeju, Liz’s hometown. It was a refreshing change from the usual winter cold in Seoul. Though the temperatures were cooler than usual for Jeju, it didn’t snow. 

Liz had invited them to spend a week there, eager to show them the beauty of Jeju Island. They stayed not far from Liz’s family house. The hotel was small but comfortable enough, with warm lighting and a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for their week-long stay. 

On their first morning, Liz took them to her family’s orange farm, one of the highlights of the island. Yujin and Wonyoung marveled at the endless rows of citrus trees, their branches heavy with bright, ripe oranges. The contrast between the deep green leaves and the vivid orange fruit made the scenery breathtaking. 

“Wow, these look amazing,” Yujin said, standing under one of the trees, admiring the fruit. He picked one with Liz’s permission, peeling it easily. “The oranges here are really something else.” 

Liz smiled proudly, watching her friends enjoy the fruits of her family’s labor. “You haven’t even tasted the best of it yet. My mom makes an incredible orange marmalade from these. She’ll make you a few bottles before you guys leave.” 

As they strolled through the farm, Liz’s family welcomed them with warm smiles. They were friendly and generous, offering them baskets of oranges once they are ready to leave and sharing stories about life on the farm. Wonyoung found it heartwarming, the simplicity of life in Jeju compared to their bustling lives back in Seoul. 

In the afternoons, Liz acted as their guide, taking them to some of Jeju’s most famous spots. They visited Seongsan Ilchulbong to catch the sunrise, hiked through the scenic Hallasan trails, and marveled at the beauty of the coastal cliffs at Jusangjeolli. 

One day, they visited a small café overlooking the sea, the perfect spot to relax after a morning of sightseeing. Liz ordered the local specialty — Jeju tangerine tea — while Yujin and Wonyoung shared a plate of orange-flavored desserts. 

As the week continued, Yujin and Wonyoung found themselves growing more attached to the slow, peaceful rhythm of life in Jeju. The orange groves, the sea breeze, and the kindness of Liz’s family made their winter break feel like a dream. 

On their last night, they sat together at the hotel, overlooking the calm waters as the sun set. Yujin wrapped his arm around Wonyoung, pulling her close as the colors of the sunset painted the sky. 

“Jeju was the perfect choice for this break,” Wonyoung said softly, resting her head on his chest. 

***

It was a bright, sunny day, and the air buzzed with excitement as Yujin's graduation ceremony came to an end. The moment he stepped out in his graduation gown, diploma in hand, he saw his parents and Wonyoung waiting for him with beaming smiles. His mother had her phone out, taking photos of Yujin from every angle, while his father stood proudly beside her with a camera.

Wonyoung rushed over and threw her arms around him in a tight hug. "You did it, honey!"

"I can't believe it's over," Yujin chuckled, feeling a mix of relief and excitement. He still felt a bit dazed by the fact that, after all the late nights, failures, and doubts, he had finally graduated. "Four years, and I’m still standing." 

His mother came over, pulling him into a warm embrace. "We can finally breathe," she said, a tear slipping down her cheek. "After all those subjects you failed… look at you now." His father clapped him on the back, his pride evident despite his usual stoic expression. 

"Thank you, Mom," Yujin said, his voice softer as he hugged his parents. 

They spent the next few minutes taking photos — Yujin standing with his parents, then with Wonyoung. One picture captured the three of them together: Yujin, his mother, and Wonyoung, with all of them laughing as his father attempted to figure out the angle of the camera. 

"Alright, let's head to the restaurant," his father said with a smile, guiding everyone toward the car. 

***

Later that evening, they arrived at an upscale restaurant his parents had reserved for the celebration. The mood was warm, filled with relief and joy. As they sat around the table, sharing stories of Yujin's journey, his mother turned to Wonyoung and smiled. 

"Wonyoung, we can't thank you enough for being such a positive influence on Yujin. You've been so supportive, and I’m sure you played a big part in him finally finishing school." 

Wonyoung blushed a little, glancing at Yujin, who gave her an appreciative smile. "Thank you, but Yujin did all the hard work. He really earned this," she said, squeezing Yujin’s hand under the table. 

"Next year, we’ll be celebrating your graduation," Yujin’s father added, looking at Wonyoung. "We’ll be right here, doing the same thing for you with your parents."

"Thank you, sir. I’m working hard for it." 

***

It was a lazy summer afternoon, and Yujin and Wonyoung were lounging comfortably in the living room of Wonyoung’s house, watching a TV show that neither of them were fully paying attention to. The soft sounds of the show played in the background while they lounged in comfortable silence, Wonyoung’s head resting against Yujin’s shoulder. 

Just then, Wonyoung’s father came into the room, tea in hand, and took a seat in his usual armchair. After a few moments of watching the TV, he glanced over at Yujin. “So, Yujin,” he began, his tone casual, “now that you’ve graduated, are you applying for jobs yet?” 

Yujin straightened up slightly, trying not to sound too relaxed as he replied, “Not yet, sir. I’m planning to start after summer. I figured this would be my last chance to really enjoy a summer break, so I want to make the most of it with Wonyoung before things get busy with work.” 

Wonyoung’s father raised an eyebrow, then nodded thoughtfully. “That’s a wise idea,” he said, taking a sip of his tea. “You’re right — once you start working, life gets busier. It’s good that you’re taking this time to enjoy your freedom. You’re young, and there’s no rush.” 

Yujin felt a sense of relief wash over him. He had been worried that Wonyoung’s father might think he was being too carefree about his future, but instead, he felt supported. “Thank you, sir,” Yujin replied with a respectful nod. “I just want to make the most of this time before things get more serious.” 

After Wonyoung’s father left the room, Yujin turned to her with a playful grin. “Your dad’s approval is always the scariest thing, you know?” he teased, making Wonyoung laugh. 

“I think he likes you more than you realize,” she replied, nudging him lightly. 

Yujin’s eyes lit up, and with a playful grin, he puffed out his chest. “Well, he should,” he said proudly, looking down at her with a glint of mischief in his eyes. “I’m going to be their son-in-law one day, after all.” 

Wonyoung laughed, gently swatting his arm. “Oh, are you now?” she teased, though her heart skipped a beat at the thought. 

“Absolutely,” Yujin said, leaning in closer, his voice dropping to a playful whisper. “I mean, come on — I’ve already passed the hardest test. Your dad likes me. That’s half the battle, right?” 

She laughed again, shaking her head but unable to hide the smile spreading across her face. “You’re so full of yourself,” she teased, but there was affection in her tone. 

“Confident,” Yujin corrected with a smirk, wrapping an arm around her and pulling her closer. “But seriously, I’m here for the long haul.”

“Are you sure you’re ready for that?” she teased, though her voice was quieter now, almost shy. “I mean, they can be a lot to handle sometimes.” 

Yujin laughed lightly, resting his forehead against hers. “If I can handle you, I think I can manage them.” His voice softened, his teasing tone fading as he added, “Besides, they’ve been nothing but kind to me. I’m lucky.” 

Wonyoung smiled, her heart feeling full. “They think you’re a good influence on me, you know.” 

Yujin raised an eyebrow, feigning surprise. “Me? A good influence?” 

She giggled, shaking her head. “Yeah, they don’t know about all the chaos you bring.” 

“I prefer to call it excitement,” he said, grinning. “Life would be boring without me.” 

Wonyoung’s smile widened as she nestled closer into him. “True. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.” 

Yujin tightened his hold on Wonyoung, glancing down at her with a soft smile. “We’re gonna get married someday, right?” 

Wonyoung’s heart skipped a beat. She looked up at him, surprised at how easily the words came out of his mouth, but seeing the way he was looking at her, she knew he meant it. Her face softened, and a small, genuine smile tugged at her lips. 

“Yes,” she whispered, nodding. “I want that too.” 

Yujin’s eyes brightened, the grin on his face widening as he leaned down to kiss her softly, lingering for a moment. “Good,” he murmured against her lips. “Because I can’t imagine my life without you.” 

Wonyoung felt a warm wave of happiness wash over her, her heart swelling. “I can’t imagine mine without you either,” she admitted, resting her head against his chest, hearing the steady beat of his heart. They sat in comfortable silence for a moment, the weight of their words settling in. 

Yujin kissed Wonyoung again, more deeply this time, his lips lingering on hers as he pulled back just enough to ask with a playful smirk, "What time are your parents coming back?" 

Wonyoung glanced at the clock and smiled. “Not until later — like after their work,” she replied casually, though she knew where this conversation was heading. 

Yujin’s grin widened mischievously, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "Perfect," he said, his voice dropping into a teasing tone. "Let’s go to your room," he added, his intentions clear, his eyebrow raising slightly as he leaned in closer. 

Wonyoung laughed softly, her cheeks flushing as she pouted playfully. "Really?" she asked, pretending to hesitate for a moment, but when she met Yujin’s gaze, she couldn’t help but nod, giving in to the idea. 

Without another word, Yujin scooped her up effortlessly, carrying her in his arms as she gasped in surprise. He held her close, her arms wrapping around his neck as he carried her upstairs.

Wonyoung laughed again, burying her face in his shoulder as Yujin kicked the door open with his foot, both of them giggling like they were breaking the rules. 

***

It was a quiet evening in Yujin’s room, the warm glow of his desk lamp illuminating the space as Wonyoung sat at his desk, her eyes focused on his laptop screen. Yujin lay sprawled on his bed behind her, watching as she meticulously worked on his resume. A stack of papers with company names and job descriptions was spread out across the bed, with some of them already marked by Wonyoung’s careful hand-picking. 

Wonyoung paused for a moment, clicking through the list of companies they had prepared. “Alright, we’re almost done,” she said, her voice steady and reassuring. “I’ve chosen the best ones — just need to send them off now.” 

Yujin sighed, running a hand through his hair as he sat up slightly, leaning on his elbows. “Wonyoung… I don’t know,” he muttered, doubt creeping into his voice. “I’m not sure I’ll even get into the top companies you want me to apply for. What if they don’t think I’m good enough? I wasn’t exactly a smart student.”

Wonyoung turned in her chair, looking at him with a soft but determined expression. “Yujin, it’s okay,” she said, her tone gentle yet firm. “The important thing is that we try. You never know what’s going to happen. And besides, we’re sending your application to a lot of places, so there’s a good chance something will come through.” 

As Wonyoung finished typing, she looked through the list of companies one last time and pulled out the top choices. She handed Yujin the list, pointing to one name in particular. 

"Here are your top options," Wonyoung said, her finger tapping the screen where the company "Fungmu" was listed. "It’s funny, though. You know that the CEO of Fungmu, Kwak Yujin, has the same name as you? And apparently, he’s famous for being incredibly handsome.” 

Yujin glanced at the list, then smirked as he leaned back against the headboard. “Of course he is," he said with playful confidence, eyes sparkling. "Everyone named Yujin is handsome." 

Wonyoung laughed, rolling her eyes at his cheeky remark. “Oh, really? Is that a fact?” 

Yujin nodded, grinning at her. "Absolutely. It’s a universal truth.” 

Wonyoung shook her head, still smiling, as she sat down beside him on the bed, looking at the list together. “Well, if that’s the case, maybe you’ll have some good luck with Fungmu,” she teased. "Maybe they’ll hire you just because of the name." 

Yujin chuckled, nudging her playfully. "Hey, if they do, I’ll take it. Whatever gets me in the door, right?" 

***

Yujin sat in the corner of the café, leaning back in his chair as he listened to the chatter around him. His former classmates, Yuna, Haewon, and a few others, were all gathered at the table, talking about their recent experiences after graduation. Haewon, as usual, was leading the conversation with her confident, assured voice. She had always been the smartest in their class, and now she was sharing her insights about job applications, company hiring processes, and what they should be doing to stand out. 

“I sent out my résumé to about twelve companies,” Haewon said, sipping her iced coffee. “I tailored each one to match the specific job descriptions, of course. You have to make sure it fits their criteria, or you’re wasting your time. I already got nine offers, but I’m holding out for the one I really want.” 

“Wow, nine offers already?” Yuna chimed in, impressed. “That’s amazing, Haewon! I’m still waiting to hear back from the one company I applied to, but I might have to take your approach and send out more.” 

“Yeah, definitely apply to more places,” Haewon advised. “Even if you think you’re perfect for one job, it’s smart to have backups. You never know how competitive it is.” 

Yujin stayed quiet, sitting beside Yuna, just listening to their conversation. He was curious about their strategies and experiences, wanting to absorb as much as he could. Yuna noticed his silence and nudged him gently with her elbow. 

“Yujin, what about you? Are you applying anywhere yet?” she asked, her voice light and teasing. “Or are you still deciding?” 

Yujin chuckled nervously, rubbing the back of his neck. “Uh, I’m still in the process, I guess. Wonyoung’s been helping me with my résumé and choosing companies. She’s got big plans for me, so I’m just trying to… not let her down.”

Haewon smiled knowingly, her sharp eyes glancing at him. “Wonyoung’s ambitious, huh? That’s good, Yujin. Having someone who pushes you can be really helpful. You’ll have to step up, though — she’s not going to settle for anything less than the best for you.” 

Yujin nodded, feeling a mix of pride and pressure. He knew Wonyoung wanted him to aim high, and hearing Haewon say it out loud made him even more determined not to disappoint her. But he couldn’t shake the feeling that he wasn’t as confident and as smart as the others in the room. They all seemed so sure of themselves, so clear in their goals, and Yujin wasn’t sure he was on the same level. 

***

As the summer days grew shorter and the pressure to find a job intensified, Yujin sat at his desk, his laptop glowing in front of him. Wonyoung had been diligently helping him craft the perfect résumé, guiding him to apply for all the companies she had handpicked for him. She had big dreams for his future — a stable job at a reputable company. Yujin understood that and wanted to make her proud, but deep down, he couldn’t shake the small voice telling him to pursue something different. 

After applying to all the corporate positions Wonyoung had suggested — ones that would impress her, her parents, and even his own — Yujin hesitated for a moment. He glanced around the room, making sure Wonyoung wasn’t nearby, then quietly opened a new tab on his browser. 

“It doesn’t hurt to try, right?” he muttered to himself, as he clicked through the job listings for media and entertainment companies. His heart raced a little as he browsed through positions at music studios and even the recording label he had admired for years. Yujin had always loved music — it was his passion. It was what he wanted to do, even if it wasn’t as secure as the other corporate jobs. 

He found a position at a smaller recording label and clicked on the application link. As he filled out the details, he smiled to himself. It felt right — like a small rebellion, but also like a step towards something he genuinely wanted. 

Yujin quickly moved on to another entertainment company — a media company that produced soundtracks and jingles for commercials. It wasn’t exactly what Wonyoung had envisioned for him, but Yujin figured that the more companies he applied to, the better his chances of getting hired somewhere. He could always explain it to Wonyoung later, if it ever came up. 

After sending off a few more applications to music-related jobs, Yujin leaned back in his chair, feeling a strange mix of excitement and guilt. Wonyoung had such high hopes for him, and he didn’t want to let her down. But at the same time, he couldn’t ignore his own dreams. This was his chance to at least try. Besides, he doesn’t have the confidence that he will be accepted in the top companies.

Later that evening, as they sat together in the living room, Yujin glanced over at Wonyoung. She was reading through her notes. He smiled to himself, knowing that he’d done his best to follow her advice, but also quietly satisfied that he had snuck in those extra applications for something he truly loved. 

***

As Yujin stood on the terrace of Wonyoung’s house, his focus was on creating the perfect setting for their second anniversary. He had meticulously planned everything, from checking the weather forecast to make sure it won’t rain to securing permission from her parents. The sun was starting to set, and he worked swiftly to string warm lights along the balcony rails, casting a cozy glow over the intimate space. He wanted it to be special, something Wonyoung would never forget. 

As he was adjusting a few final details, Wonyoung’s father, Yool-ho, walked out to check on him. “I didn’t realize a terrace could be so romantic,” he commented, a hint of amusement in his voice as he took in the lights and decorations. 

Yujin smiled, feeling both nervous and proud. “Thank you, sir. I’m really trying to make it special for her.” 

Yool-ho nodded approvingly. “It’s nice to see you putting in so much effort. Do you need any help?” 

Yujin shook his head. “No, I got it. I really appreciate you letting me do this, though.” 

Yool-ho gave a small chuckle. “It’s for our daughter, so it’s fine. Actually, we have an extra mattress that we don’t use anymore. Maybe you can use it tonight to sit while you two watch a movie? You’ve got that big projector screen ready, after all.” 

Yujin’s eyes lit up at the suggestion. “That would be perfect! Thank you so much.” 

Yool-ho gestured for Yujin to follow him into the house, where they grabbed the mattress and set it up on the terrace. Yujin couldn't help but feel grateful for the warmth and acceptance from Wonyoung's parents. As the finishing touches were made, he stood back for a moment, admiring the scene — a projector screen set up for a movie under the stars, the soft glow of lights, and the cozy mattress ready for them to sit on. 

He could already picture Wonyoung’s reaction, her eyes lighting up with surprise and happiness when she saw it all. It wasn’t just about the romantic setting, but the thought he had put into every detail for their special night together. 

***

As Yujin picked up Wonyoung from the law firm, he casually told his mother that he wouldn’t be home for dinner because it was his and Wonyoung's second anniversary. His mother, as always, greeted them warmly and wished them a great evening. Wonyoung, already smiling from the gesture, was curious about where they’d be going for their celebration. 

Hand in hand, they walked down the street, Wonyoung expecting to head to a restaurant or some special spot. But as they continued, she noticed they were heading in the direction of her house. Confused, she gave Yujin a sidelong glance. “Wait, we’re going to my house?” 

Yujin grinned mischievously. “The surprise is upstairs,” he said casually. 

Wonyoung raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. “Really?”

Without missing a beat, Yujin decided to tease her. “Actually, the real surprise is in your room,” he said with a playful glint in his eye. 

Wonyoung’s eyes widened in shock. “What?!” she exclaimed, her thoughts immediately jumping to her parents, who were at home. “Yujin! My parents are home!” 

Yujin held back a laugh as he playfully teased her. “Well, your parents love me, so I can go in and out of your room whenever I want,” he joked, pretending to be completely serious. 

Wonyoung stared at him, flustered. “I don’t believe you.” 

Yujin kept his straight face, leaning in closer. “I made your bed all romantic, you know,” he whispered. “So we can, you know… spend all night together. I’ll fuck you all night.” 

Wonyoung let out a gasp, her face turning red as she pushed him away, laughing. “You’re lying! Stop messing with me!” she exclaimed, feeling embarrassed and yet amused by his cheeky attitude. 

But Yujin was holding back his laughter, maintaining his playful act as they neared her house. “I’m serious,” he said, his grin widening. “You’ll see when we get there.” 

As they reached her doorstep, Wonyoung hesitated, still unsure if Yujin was joking or not. She could feel her heart racing at the thought. What if her parents overheard all of this? Yujin only enters her room when her parents are not there. Even though they know they are living together near the university, it’s still their way of giving respect in their own home. With Yujin by her side, she opened the door and walked in, greeted by her parents sitting in the living room. 

Wonyoung’s parents smiled warmly at her and Yujin. “Enjoy the night, you two,” her mother said, causing Wonyoung to blush furiously, her mind flashing back to Yujin’s teasing words about being in her room. 

She glanced at Yujin, who winked at her, clearly enjoying her embarrassment. Wonyoung couldn’t help but wonder, what the hell did Yujin do to charm her parents to allow him in her room for the night?

***

Yujin led Wonyoung upstairs, teasing her all the way to her room. As they reached her door, Wonyoung paused, her voice filled with uncertainty. “Do my parents really know? Are they seriously allowing this?” 

Yujin chuckled, his hand already on the doorknob. “You’ll see,” he said with a mischievous grin. As he pushed the door open, Wonyoung braced herself, half expecting something outrageous. But as she stepped inside, Yujin quickly turned to her with a laugh. “I’m just joking.” 

Wonyoung’s cheeks flushed with a mix of relief and annoyance, and she smacked his arm. “You idiot!” she exclaimed, but her smile betrayed her amusement. 

Yujin grinned, grabbing her hand. “Come on, the real surprise is here,” he said, leading her towards the balcony. 

As soon as Wonyoung stepped onto the balcony, her breath caught in her throat. It was glowing with warm, soft lights strung along the railings, casting a golden hue over the cozy setup. In front of her was a big projector screen, and laid out before it was a mattress piled with pillows, cushions, and a warm blanket, creating a dreamy, intimate atmosphere. 

Wonyoung stood in awe, her eyes wide as she took in the romantic scene. It was simple, but perfect. Yujin had clearly put so much thought into it. 

Before she could say anything, Yujin stepped to the side and pulled out a large bouquet of flowers and a neatly wrapped gift he had prepared. He held them out with a shy, affectionate smile. “Happy anniversary, honey,” he said softly. 

Wonyoung’s heart swelled as tears pricked at the corners of her eyes. She took the flowers, feeling overwhelmed by his gesture, by how much love he’d poured into the surprise. Without another word, she threw her arms around him, pulling him into a tight hug before pressing a kiss to his lips. “I love you so much.”

Yujin kissed her back, his hands resting gently on her waist, his heart full. “I love you too, Wonyoung,” he murmured, his voice tender as they stood there, wrapped up in each other and the glow of the lights. This moment, their second anniversary, feels magical already.

***

Yujin gently led Wonyoung to sit on the cozy mattress, a warm smile on his face. “Your dad lent me this earlier,” he said, motioning to the mattress they were sitting on. 

Wonyoung laughed softly, teasing him, “They really love you, huh?” 

Yujin puffed his chest out in mock pride. “Of course,” he said with a playful grin. “I’m irresistible.” 

She rolled her eyes but smiled, her heart feeling light. As they settled in, Yujin grabbed the remote and started the projector. The soft strum of an acoustic guitar filled the balcony, a romantic instrumental Yujin had recorded himself. It set the perfect mood as a video began to play on the screen. 

Wonyoung’s eyes widened when she realized it was a montage of their moments together over the past two years. Photos and videos of their travels, their spontaneous hangouts, small glimpses of their daily life, all woven together in a beautiful tribute to their time as a couple. It was like watching their love story unfold in front of her, from the early, awkward days to the deep, comfortable love they shared now. 

As the video continued, Wonyoung felt a lump forming in her throat, her chest swelling with emotion. The gentle guitar strings, the memories captured on the screen — it was all so romantic and heartfelt that she couldn’t help but get teary-eyed again. Every smile, every moment they had shared felt like a treasure. 

The past two years with Yujin had been filled with love, growth, and happiness. And as she watched those memories play out, Wonyoung knew that their future together would be just as bright. There was no doubt in her heart. 

When the video ended, she turned to Yujin, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears, and with all the sincerity she could muster, she whispered, “Don’t ever change, okay? Always be this sweet guy who is so in love with me.”

Yujin met her gaze, his eyes soft and filled with warmth. “I’ll never change,” he assured her. He took her hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. “No matter what happens, I’ll always be so in love with you, Wonyoung.”

After the romantic video ended, Yujin reached beside him, grabbing a small, neatly wrapped gift and handing it to Wonyoung. "This is for you," he said softly, watching her eyes light up with curiosity.

Wonyoung carefully unwrapped the gift. Inside, nestled in a simple box, was a vintage-style film camera. Her eyes widened with surprise, and she looked up at Yujin with a mixture of excitement and disbelief.

"A film camera?" she asked, smiling as she gently lifted it out of the box. The camera had a classic, nostalgic feel, with its sturdy body and timeless design.

Yujin grinned and nodded. "I know how much you love capturing moments though you rarely post online. I thought this would be something special for you... for us. You can document all our memories, the trips we take, the little moments together and your own little adventures."

Wonyoung's heart swelled, her emotions washing over her. She leaned over and kissed him softly. "Thank you, Yujin. This is perfect."

Now it was Yujin's turn. Wonyoung handed him her gift, a rectangular box that she had wrapped with care. He unwrapped it eagerly, revealing a sleek, professional briefcase bag. He held it up, chuckling.

"A briefcase?" he said, eyeing it with amusement.

Wonyoung laughed softly, brushing a hand through her hair. "You’ll be working soon, so I thought you might need something professional. You can carry this to your meetings, or whenever you're at the office."

Yujin stared at the bag, then at her, his heart filled with gratitude for how thoughtful she was. He set the bag down and pulled Wonyoung close, his arms wrapping around her waist.

“It’s perfect. Just like you," Yujin said, kissing her forehead gently. "Thank you. I’ll think of you every time I use it."

Wonyoung rested her head on his chest, feeling the warmth of his embrace. "I wanted you to have something for your next chapter," she said softly.

Chapter Text

As the summer ended and the leaves began to shift in color, Yujin and Wonyoung moved back into their apartment, ready to settle in for another year together. Wonyoung was starting her final year in law school, while Yujin was in full job-search mode, juggling various applications and trying to figure out his next steps. Their days had found a comfortable rhythm: Wonyoung busy with her studies, Yujin spending hours fine-tuning his résumé and sending out more applications as he walks and picks up Wonyoung from the university.

One afternoon, Yujin was refreshing his email when, to his surprise, a few replies popped up one after another. His eyes widened as he saw that not one, but five different companies had invited him for interviews. He quickly scanned the list: a gaming company, a media entertainment company, Fungmu — the one Wonyoung had her heart set on — a medium-sized recording label company, and a technology company. 

His heart raced with excitement, especially for the media and recording label positions, but he couldn’t ignore the pressure of landing a more secure corporate job like Fungmu or the tech company. 

That evening, after picking Wonyoung up from her law classes, they headed back to the apartment. Yujin was quiet on the way home, but a small smile played on his lips as he held onto the news he was eager to share. Once they walked through the door, he turned to her with a grin. 

"I got some emails today," Yujin said, pulling out his phone and showing her the list of interviews. 

Wonyoung’s eyes immediately lit up. "Fungmu?" she gasped, scanning the list. "And a technology company, too! That’s amazing, Yujin!" 

Her excitement was palpable as she leaned in, her eyes dancing over the names of the companies that had responded. But her enthusiasm seemed to skip right over the gaming company and the media entertainment company, her gaze focusing only on the corporate names she had been hoping for. She didn’t even pause to acknowledge the recording label. 

Yujin chuckled nervously, feeling a slight pang in his chest. He wasn’t surprised — he knew Wonyoung had her sights set on him getting a solid, dependable job. But still, a small part of him hoped she would at least acknowledge the entertainment side. 

"Yeah, Fungmu," Yujin nodded, trying to match her energy. "I’ve got the interviews lined up." 

Wonyoung beamed and wrapped her arms around him. "I’m so proud of you! These are big companies, especially Fungmu. You’re going to do great." 

As they sat on the couch, she started discussing how he should prepare, already laying out a plan for him to ace the interviews. Yujin smiled and nodded along, grateful for her support. But when she skipped over the media and recording companies without a second thought, he couldn’t help but feel a little torn inside. 

He knew what she wanted for him, and he wanted to make her proud. But there was still that small voice in the back of his mind, whispering that maybe one of those entertainment companies could be his real shot at something he loved. 

Still, for now, he let Wonyoung’s enthusiasm wash over him, focusing on the positive. After all, it wasn’t every day that you got interview offers from such reputable places. There would be time to figure everything else out later. 

***

One day, as Yujin sat at his desk going through company emails and browsing more job postings as he waits for his interview schedules, his phone buzzed with a notification. He glanced at the screen and saw an unexpected message from SoundCloud. His heart skipped a beat when he realized it wasn’t just another like or comment — it was from someone calling themselves "J.K.," who said they were a producer and wanted to meet up to talk about his music. 

Wonyoung was in class, so Yujin was alone in the apartment with plenty of time to think. He stared at the message, trying to decide if this was legit or just some random person. His curiosity got the better of him, and he agreed to meet at a local café later that afternoon. 

When Yujin arrived, he scanned the room, expecting to see an up-and-coming artist, a scammer or someone who might be just starting in the industry like himself. But instead, sitting at a table with a cup of coffee and wearing a baseball cap was Tae-Joo — the Tae-Joo, a well-known producer in the K-pop industry, an award winner producer. Yujin stopped in his tracks, wide-eyed. 

Tae-Joo noticed him and stood up, extending his hand with a friendly grin. “Yujin, right? Glad you could make it. I’m Tae-Joo, but you might know me as J.K. on SoundCloud. I use an alias there just to keep things lowkey.” 

Yujin blinked, still trying to process what was happening. Tae-Joo? The Tae-Joo who had produced for some of the biggest names in K-pop and the entertainment world? He quickly shook the man’s hand, his heart racing. “Uh, yeah. Yujin. I didn’t expect... I mean, I thought I’d be meeting someone less... famous.” 

Tae-Joo chuckled and gestured for Yujin to sit down. "I like to keep a low profile when I scout. Keeps things genuine. I’ve been scrolling through SoundCloud lately, and your music caught my ear. You’ve got potential." 

Yujin felt a rush of excitement and disbelief. Tae-Joo, a major producer, had found his music and thought it was good? It felt surreal. 

"You think so?" Yujin asked, his voice barely masking his nervousness. 

Tae-Joo nodded, leaning forward. "Yeah, there’s something raw and unique about your sound. It’s not polished yet, but that’s not a bad thing. You’ve got talent, and I think with the right guidance, you could take it somewhere." 

Yujin’s mind was racing. He’d always dreamed of making music, but this was far beyond anything he had imagined. It was one thing to fantasize about making it big, but another to have someone like Tae-Joo sitting across from him, offering a real opportunity. 

Yujin swallowed hard, feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety. This was a huge moment. But then, in the back of his mind, he thought about Wonyoung. What would she think? She had her heart set on him landing a stable job, something secure. This was completely different. Could he handle pursuing something so uncertain? 

Tae-Joo handed Yujin a calling card after their conversation about the opportunity. "Think about it," Tae-Joo said. "No pressure, but I see potential in you. Six months could be enough to see if you’ve got what it takes. It’s unpaid, but you’d be producing for our idols, attending camps, and getting real industry experience." 

Yujin, still processing the fact that he was sitting across from a renowned producer, bowed respectfully, feeling a rush of excitement and nerves. "Thank you for the offer, sir. I’ll definitely think about it." 

Tae-Joo smiled. "I hope to hear from you soon. Good luck, Yujin." 

As Yujin watched Tae-Joo leave the café, he clutched the calling card in his hand. The opportunity seemed too good to pass up, even though it was unpaid. But what would Wonyoung think? He knew how much she wanted him to aim for bigger things, more stable careers. But this… this felt like a chance at his dream. 

That evening, as Yujin and Wonyoung arrived back at their apartment, Yujin still had the earlier meeting with Tae-Joo on his mind, but he kept it tucked away for now. Wonyoung, however, seemed unusually excited as they stepped inside. 

“I have a surprise for you,” she announced with a bright smile. 

“A surprise?” 

Wonyoung grinned and reached into her tote bag, pulling out a neatly folded paper bag. With a dramatic flourish, she revealed its contents — a sleek, formal black suit. 

"For your interview at Fungmu tomorrow!" she said, practically bouncing on her feet with excitement. “I saw this, and I thought it would be perfect for you. You’ll look so handsome!” 

Yujin was taken aback, his heart sinking a little as the weight of her expectations hit him. She was so excited, so invested in this future she envisioned for him. He felt a surge of warmth for her thoughtfulness but also a small tug of guilt for not mentioning the producer’s offer. It wasn’t that he didn’t appreciate her support — he absolutely did — but it made him hesitate about telling her just yet. 

“Wow, I… I don’t even know what to say,” Yujin muttered, holding the suit carefully. “You didn’t have to do this.” 

“I wanted to,” Wonyoung insisted, her eyes twinkling with pride. “You’re going to nail that interview tomorrow.” 

Yujin smiled, trying to match her enthusiasm, but inside, he felt conflicted. “Thanks, Honey. You’re amazing.” 

As she beamed at him, Yujin hugged her, holding her close as he pushed the thought of Tae-Joo’s offer to the back of his mind, at least for now. Tomorrow, he would go to the Fungmu interview, wearing the suit Wonyoung had picked out for him. Maybe it was best to see how things played out before saying anything. 

***

The following morning, Yujin stood in front of the mirror while Wonyoung fussed over his tie, adjusting it with a determined focus. She stepped back and gave him an appreciative once-over, a proud smile spreading across her face. 

“You look so handsome and ready, honey,” she said, smoothing the lapels of his suit. 

Yujin smiled nervously, his hands fidgeting at his sides. “I’m kind of freaking out inside,” he admitted. “What if I mess this up?” 

Wonyoung shook her head, cupping his face gently. “Don’t be. You’ve got this. You’ve prepared so well, and you’re going to do great. I believe in you.” 

Before he could say anything else, Wonyoung leaned in and kissed him softly — a good luck kiss. Yujin felt his nerves settle just a little as her confidence in him sank in. 

Wonyoung handed him a small stack of flashcards she had prepared the night before. "Here," she said, smiling. "I made these for you. They have some key facts and things you should remember about Fungmu. It’ll help you stay sharp." 

“You really thought of everything, huh?” 

“Of course. You’re going to crush it.” 

A short while later, Yujin was on the subway, dressed in his neatly pressed suit, the tie perfectly knotted thanks to Wonyoung. He sat quietly, flipping through the flashcards, trying to commit the information to memory. But despite all the preparation, the weight of the interview loomed over him. 

As he approached the Fungmu building, his heart raced a little faster. This was big. Bigger than he’d ever thought possible for himself. But when he arrived at the check-in list for the interviews, he froze for a second. 

Standing there was Haewon, his old classmate, looking as sharp and confident as ever. 

“Haewon?” Yujin said in surprise. 

Haewon turned, equally surprised to see him. “Yujin? What are you doing here? You got an interview call from Fungmu?” 

Yujin nodded, feeling awkward. “Yeah, but I’m pretty nervous. I don’t think I’ll do well here.” 

Haewon looked him up and down, then smirked. “You’ll be fine. You’re a man. Just go in there and own it.” 

Yujin chuckled uneasily, though Haewon’s confidence did little to soothe his own doubts especially when she implied he will be fine just because he is a guy. Still, he appreciated the words. As the time for his interview drew near, he took a deep breath and glanced one last time at the flashcards Wonyoung had made for him, holding onto her words of encouragement to get him through this. 

***

After the interview, Yujin walked out of the Fungmu building with a heavy heart. His shoulders slumped, and he felt the weight of disappointment settling in. As he stepped outside, he spotted Haewon waiting for him. Her face lit up, but when she saw his expression, her smile faltered. 

"I passed the final round," Haewon said, clearly trying to be considerate. "But... you didn’t?" 

Yujin shook his head, his voice low, "No, I didn’t make it. It’s okay, though. I didn’t really think I would." 

Haewon frowned, seeing the dejection in his eyes. "Hey, don’t worry. There are a lot more opportunities out there. Fungmu is tough to get into — really tough." 

Yujin sighed, nodding. "I know. It’s the top company in Korea... I didn’t stand a chance. I just tried because..." He trailed off, glancing away awkwardly. 

Haewon raised an eyebrow. "Because Wonyoung said so?" 

Yujin gave her a shy nod. 

With a mix of sympathy and frustration, Haewon shook her head. "Well, turns out your girlfriend isn’t that smart about this stuff. She should’ve known how hard it is to get into a place like Fungmu even for a top student like me." 

Yujin frowned, trying to defend Wonyoung. "She just wanted me to aim high. There’s nothing wrong with that." 

Haewon sighed. "There’s nothing wrong with aiming high, but there’s also nothing wrong with being realistic. Getting rejected like this can really hurt your confidence, Yujin. We have been classmates for years. I know you are easily affected. And that’s not something you want to keep happening." 

Yujin rubbed the back of his neck, feeling even more uncertain. "Yeah... I guess you’re right." 

Haewon softened, giving him a gentle smile. "You’ll be fine. There are other offers, right? What about the other companies?" 

Yujin perked up slightly and mentioned the few interviews he had lined up. "There’s one tech company... apparently it’s got good pay." 

Haewon’s eyes widened with interest. "That one’s good. They’re massively hiring right now. You should definitely try there. It could be a great fit, especially since they have high salaries and good benefits." 

Yujin felt a little lighter after hearing that. "Thanks, Haewon." 

She nodded, smiling warmly. "You’ve got this, Yujin. Don’t let one rejection bring you down." 

With that, they parted ways outside the building, Yujin walking away with a bit of hope restored.

***

That night, when Wonyoung arrived back at their apartment, she was smiling, holding a cake box in her hands as she eagerly opened the door. "Surprise!" she said, her voice full of excitement as she placed the cake on the table. It was a simple chocolate cake, with "Congratulations, Yujin!" written on it in icing. 

But Yujin didn't smile. Instead, his face fell, his eyes avoiding hers as guilt began to build up inside him. "Wonyoung..." he began, his voice low. "I didn’t pass the interview." 

Wonyoung blinked, her excitement dimming as she processed what he said. "What? You didn’t?" 

Yujin’s hands trembled slightly as he stepped back from the cake. He felt so small, the weight of failure crushing down on him. "I didn’t pass. I messed it up," he said, voice cracking. "I’m sorry, Wonyoung." 

Wonyoung’s brow furrowed with concern, and she reached out to touch his arm, but Yujin pulled away, his emotions finally spilling over. Tears filled his eyes as he collapsed onto the couch, covering his face with his hands. "I don’t deserve this cake. I don’t deserve anything." He isn’t crying because he didn’t pass the interview, he just feels like he is a disappointment to her right now.

"Yujin..." Wonyoung whispered, sitting down next to him, trying to comfort him. 

But he couldn’t hold it in anymore. "I’m sorry," he cried, voice thick with emotion. "I’m so sorry. You bought me a suit, and I just... failed. I couldn’t even pass the first round. I didn’t study enough in university, I didn’t take things seriously, and now I’m paying for it. I’m stupid. I should’ve done better... I don’t deserve any of this." 

His shoulders shook as he sobbed, the disappointment and guilt weighing heavily on him. He felt like he had let her down, like he wasn’t good enough for the bright future she wanted for him, for her.

Wonyoung, seeing him like this, felt her heart ache. She gently pulled him closer, wrapping her arms around him tightly. "Yujin, stop. You’re not stupid," she whispered, her voice soothing but firm. "You tried your best, and that’s what matters. Don’t blame yourself for this." 

"But I...what if I fail the others..." Yujin whimpered, his face buried in her shoulder. "I’m not good enough. I should’ve done better in school, I—" 

"Shh..." Wonyoung interrupted softly, stroking his hair. "It’s okay. We’ll get through this together. You don’t need to be perfect. I’m proud of you for trying, and that’s what’s important. Please don’t be so hard on yourself." 

Wonyoung sat beside Yujin on the couch, gently stroking his back as he continued to sniffle, his face still damp from tears. Her heart ached seeing him like this, so defeated and vulnerable. She leaned her head against his shoulder, trying to reassure him. 

"It’s okay, Yujin," she whispered softly, soothing him. "It’s just one company. You’re not dumb, and you’re not a failure. It’s just... experience, okay?" 

Yujin wiped his eyes with the back of his hand, his chest still heavy from the weight of disappointment. "But you... you really wanted me to get into Fungmu," he said, his voice trembling. "I know you did. You were so excited, and I just… I couldn’t do it." 

Wonyoung sighed softly and shook her head, turning toward him. "I know, and I’m sorry, Yujin. I really am," she said. "I wanted it because I thought it would be a great opportunity for you. But it’s just one company. There are more out there. You don’t need to worry about this." 

She reached up. "I don’t want you to feel like you’ve failed, because you haven’t. You’ve tried, and that’s what matters. This was just the first step, and it doesn’t define you." 

Yujin sniffed again, his face turning toward her. "But I... I wanted to make you proud. I wanted to show you that I could do it."

Wonyoung smiled softly, leaning in closer and placing a gentle kiss on his forehead. "I’m already proud of you," she said. "You don’t have to prove anything to me. The fact that you tried, that you went through this process — that’s what makes me proud. And I know you’re going to find something that’s even better for you." 

Yujin nodded slowly, taking in her words, though the sting of the rejection still lingered. "I just... I don’t know. I feel like I let you down." 

"You didn’t let me down, Yujin," Wonyoung said firmly. "I don’t care if you get into Fungmu or not. There are so many companies out there, and we’ll keep trying. This isn’t the end, okay? It’s just part of the process." 

Yujin sighed deeply, feeling some of the pressure ease as Wonyoung’s words sank in. "Yeah... I guess you’re right," he murmured, his voice soft but filled with gratitude. 

Wonyoung smiled warmly, leaning in to kiss his cheek. "I’m always right," she teased lightly, trying to lift his spirits. 

Yujin chuckled weakly, his lips curling into a small, tired smile. "Thanks, honey. I don’t know what I’d do without you." 

"You won’t ever have to find out," Wonyoung said playfully, giving his hand a reassuring squeeze. "Now let’s focus on the next steps, okay? We’ve got more opportunities ahead. You’re going to be just fine." 

That night, as they lay in bed, Yujin turned to face Wonyoung. He hesitated for a moment before finally speaking up. 

"Hey, Wonyoung... I need to tell you something," he began, his eyes meeting hers. "A few days ago, I met up with a producer." 

"A producer?" 

"Yeah," Yujin continued, shifting slightly under the covers. "His name is Tae-Joo. You probably don't know him, but he's produced some big songs." He paused, listing off a few popular tracks that even Wonyoung recognized. "He found me through SoundCloud and said I had potential. He offered me... well, it's like an unpaid internship." 

Wonyoung's expression softened, but there was hesitation in her eyes. She wasn’t familiar with the music industry, but she could tell how much this meant to Yujin. Still, the idea of him working unpaid for six months with no guarantee sounded risky, especially after his recent rejection from Fungmu. 

"Unpaid? For six months?" Wonyoung asked, her voice careful, as if she was trying to weigh her words. 

Yujin nodded. "Yeah. He said I'd be going to music camps, working on some tracks... seeing if I could create songs for their idols. It sounds crazy, I know, but maybe this is the right call for me. You know, after everything with Fungmu...maybe I can just try?"

He trailed off, his voice carrying a mix of hope and doubt. Wonyoung could see the glimmer of excitement in his eyes, something she hadn't seen in him since applying for jobs. It tugged at her heart — she didn’t want to crush that spark. But at the same time, the practicality in her couldn’t ignore the reality. 

She sighed inwardly, feeling torn. Six months of unpaid work with no certainty? It sounded like a gamble. And after seeing Yujin so heartbroken over his failure at Fungmu, she wasn’t sure if she could stand to see him hurt again. The thought of him dedicating half a year to something that might not work out seemed... impractical. 

Still, she knew how much music meant to him, and seeing him so down lately made her wonder if maybe, he needed this chance to explore it, to see if this was really what he wanted. 

Wonyoung forced a small smile, even though her mind was racing. "I see... well, it sounds like something you're passionate about," she said carefully, trying to be supportive despite her reservations. "I mean, if you really feel like this could be a good opportunity... maybe it’s worth exploring?" 

Yujin looked at her, a bit surprised by her response. "You really think so? I mean, I know it's unpaid, and there's no guarantee, but... I don’t know, it feels like something I should at least try." 

Wonyoung nodded slowly, though deep down, she wasn’t entirely convinced. "Yeah... I guess. It could be an experience, right? Just... let's see how far you can go with it." 

Her words were cautious, but she didn't want to dash his hopes, not when he was already feeling so low. Yujin smiled faintly, relieved that she wasn’t outright dismissing the idea. 

"Thanks, Wonyoung," he said softly, his fingers lacing with hers. "I know it’s a lot to take in, but... I don’t know, it feels like a sign or something. Like maybe I should give it a shot. I wouldn't go for this if you didn’t want me to. I mean... it’s our future, right? We’re a team." His eyes met hers, full of sincerity. "I don’t want to do something that makes you uncomfortable, or that you don’t believe in. I trust your judgment." 

Wonyoung’s heart tightened. She could see how much Yujin valued her opinion, how much weight he placed on her thoughts for their future together. Despite her internal reservations, she knew how important this was to him. She paused, carefully choosing her words, then gave him a small nod. "Go and try it," she said softly, her voice steady despite the uncertainty she still felt inside. She forced a reassuring smile. "See where it takes you. You’ll never know unless you try." 

Deep down, she was hesitant. She still had her doubts about whether this music path would lead anywhere, but part of her wanted to see for herself if Yujin really had a future in it. If it turned out to be something he excelled in, maybe she could finally believe in it. And if not, at least they would know for sure and they can finally focus on more important things.

Yujin’s face lit up, a weight visibly lifting off his shoulders. He leaned in and kissed her forehead, his voice filled with gratitude. "Thank you, honey," he whispered, his smile wide and full of warmth. "I love you so much. I don’t know what I’d do without you." 

Wonyoung felt his arms wrap around her, pulling her close, and she nestled into his embrace, for now, she pushed the thoughts aside, focusing on the comfort of Yujin’s presence. She could see how much this meant to him, and though she had her doubts, she would support him. “I love you too.”

As they lay there in the quiet of the night, Wonyoung held him close, her mind still racing with concerns. But for now, she would let him try — after all, she wanted him to find his way. Even if she didn’t fully believe in the music path, she cared for him too much to crush his spirit. She just hoped that in the end, whatever happens, they’d both be able to navigate through it together, for their future.

***

The moment Wonyoung gave Yujin the green light, something shifted in him. He felt a rush of excitement, a spark of validation. This was his chance to prove himself — not just to Wonyoung, but to himself as well. He even got a new tattoo, a small treble clef behind his ear, on his neck. Almost immediately, he contacted Tae-Joo, thanking him for the opportunity and confirming his interest in the internship. He didn’t even bother to attend the remaining interviews he had.

A few days later, Yujin found himself stepping into a bustling music studio for the first time as an intern. The environment was electrifying, with artists, producers, and professionals moving around, discussing beats, lyrics, and projects. The air smelled of creativity, and Yujin couldn’t help but feel a wave of excitement wash over him. This was where he belonged, he thought. A real shot at his dreams. 

Tae-Joo welcomed him warmly, guiding him through the ropes and setting clear expectations. Yujin was tasked with creating new tracks, experimenting with beats, and attending music production sessions. It was challenging but exhilarating. For the first time in his life, Yujin was surrounded by people who lived and breathed music just like he did, and it made him feel more serious about it than ever. 

Every day he came home late, his fingers stained from hours of tinkering with sounds and samples, but his face was full of energy. Wonyoung noticed the shift in him — how determined he looked, how focused he had become. He would play her snippets of his work in progress, sharing his ideas, and although she would smile and encourage him, she couldn’t shake the uncertainty lurking in her mind. 

Yujin, however, was on a high. He poured his soul into every track he worked on, pushing himself to create something unique, something that would stand out. As he sat in the studio late at night, surrounded by artists he admired and learning from producers with years of experience, he started to believe that maybe this could be his big break. 

His confidence slowly began to rise as he grew more comfortable in the environment. Yujin was determined to make it. He wasn’t just playing around with music anymore — he was serious. He was working hard to prove to Wonyoung and to himself that he had what it took to succeed in the music industry. Every beat, every melody he created felt like a step toward a future he desperately wanted to be part of.
 
This was real now. And Yujin was all in. 

***

Wonyoung watched from the kitchen as Yujin hurried around the apartment, packing his things with a beaming smile. It had become his routine — every morning, he'd leave a small breakfast for her on the counter, grab his briefcase (the one she bought him for his interviews), and rush out the door, humming a tune under his breath. He was glowing with happiness. This unpaid internship was bringing him a kind of joy that Wonyoung hadn’t seen in a long time. 

But as Wonyoung sipped her coffee, a small knot of worry twisted inside her. She didn’t like this situation, no matter how happy Yujin seemed. The internship was unpaid, there were no guarantees, and six months was a long time. It felt risky and impractical, especially with their future looming ahead. But she kept reminding herself that this was just a trial. It was only six months. It couldn’t hurt to let him try, right? 

Yujin’s mother, however, had been less supportive at first. She was strongly against the idea of Yujin pursuing music without a clear path. But after seeing how serious he was, she reluctantly gave in, on one condition. Yujin had agreed to it — six months. That was the time he had. If nothing came of this internship, he would have to forget music and focus on something more stable. His mother even promised to continue giving him an allowance during the trial, but after that, the dream had to end if it didn’t work out. 

Later that evening, as Wonyoung sat on the couch scrolling through her phone, it buzzed with a call. It was Yujin’s mother. She rarely called Wonyoung directly, so it caught her off guard. Wonyoung answered, and after a few pleasantries, Yujin’s mother got to the point. 

"Watch out for him, Wonyoung," she said in a firm but caring tone. "You know how Yujin is. He listens more to you than to us. If he gets carried away, remind him of the agreement. You’re the one who can keep him grounded.”

Wonyoung nodded, even though Yujin’s mother couldn’t see her. "I will," she promised softly, feeling the weight of the responsibility. It was true — Yujin did listen to her more than anyone else. He trusted her opinions, her guidance. And while she loved that he valued her so deeply, it made her realize how much he was depending on her to make sure he stayed on track, even if it meant pulling him back from something he loved. 

As the call ended, Wonyoung sat there for a while, lost in thought. She stared at the breakfast plate Yujin had left for her that morning, still feeling unsettled. She wanted Yujin to be happy, but she also knew that they had to be practical. This six-month trial felt like a ticking clock, and she hoped that when the time came, she’d be able to make the right decision — for both of them. 

***

After months of hard work, late nights, and pouring his heart into music, Yujin sat in the dimly lit recording room, Tae-Joo had called him in for a private chat, and Yujin felt a mixture of nervousness and excitement. He’d been working hard, giving everything he had, and now Tae-Joo wanted to talk. Maybe this was it — the breakthrough he had been waiting for. 

Tae-Joo leaned back in his chair, arms crossed, as he looked at Yujin with a mix of consideration and something else Yujin couldn’t quite place. "Yujin," Tae-Joo began, "we’ve been listening to the songs you’ve produced. There’s one in particular that we think has real potential." 

Yujin’s eyes lit up. This was it. This was the validation he had been hoping for. 

"But," Tae-Joo continued, his tone shifting slightly, "we want to buy it from you. It’ll be released under one of our more established producers. You won’t be credited on this one." 

Yujin blinked, confused. "Wait, what do you mean?" he asked, his voice uncertain. "Why can’t I be credited if it’s my song?" 

Tae-Joo sighed, as if he were explaining something that was supposed to be obvious. "Yujin, you’re talented, but you don’t have a name in the industry yet. If we release this under your name, it won’t get the hype or attention it deserves. But if one of our seasoned producers takes credit, it could be a hit. It’s just how the industry works." He smiled, trying to make it sound like it was in Yujin’s best interest. 

Yujin sat there, feeling a pit form in his stomach. He had worked so hard on that track. It was his creation, his art. "But... if I’m going to work here soon, wouldn’t it make sense for me to have my name on it too? I mean, isn’t that the whole point?" 

Tae-Joo’s smile faltered slightly. He leaned forward, elbows resting on his knees. "Yujin, you’re not quite there yet," he said, his tone more serious now. "You’ve made progress, but there are a lot of producers in the industry who are ahead of you, they have more connections. They’ve been doing this for years, and they’ve got the experience to handle the pressure, the deadlines, the demands. You... you’re still learning. Who wants to listen a song from a nobody called An Yujin?" 

Yujin’s heart sank. He felt like he’d been punched in the gut. "So... I’m not ready?"

Tae-Joo shook his head. "Not yet. You’ve got potential, don’t get me wrong. But there are others who are more seasoned, more prepared. We want you to keep developing your craft, keep working at it. Maybe down the line, we can talk again. But for now... you’re done." 

Yujin’s throat tightened, and he swallowed hard. He had poured months into this internship, thinking it would lead to something, that it would be his big break. Now, it felt like the rug had been pulled out from under him. 

"But," Yujin started, trying to gather himself, "what about the song? Why would you buy it from me if... if I’m not ready yet?" 

Tae-Joo’s expression softened, though there was an edge of opportunism in his eyes. "Because the song is good, Yujin. It’s really good. It just needs to be presented the right way, by the right person. And right now, that’s not you. We’re doing you a favor by buying it." 

Yujin felt the weight of his words. He had tried so hard. He had given everything to this, and yet, it still wasn’t enough. He had poured himself into this internship, believing that if he just worked hard enough, he could prove to everyone — especially to Wonyoung — that he was good enough. But now, Tae-Joo’s words made him question everything. Was he really just not talented enough? Was it all a mistake? 

Tae-Joo looked at him with a slight smile. "We’ll buy the song and since you are a nobody, the amount won’t be big and we have to tune it more, but you’ll have to remain anonymous. It’s business, Yujin. That’s the way it goes. I’ll be in touch for the signing." 

Yujin nodded numbly, feeling the weight of the rejection settle deep in his chest. He didn’t understand why this was happening. He thought he was finally making progress. Instead, it felt like the industry had used him, taken his work, and thrown him aside without any regard for his effort. 

As Yujin walked out of the building, he clutched the card Tae-Joo had given him, but he didn’t feel excited anymore. He felt used. He was just another no-name talent who got tossed aside when it was convenient. The weight of the disappointment was unbearable, and as he walked toward the subway, his mind was flooded with self-doubt. Maybe he wasn’t cut out for this. Maybe music wasn’t his future after all. 

***

Yujin wandered aimlessly through the streets after leaving Tae-Joo’s studio. His mind swirled with confusion and pain. The offer to buy his song with little money, without credit had crushed him in ways he couldn’t quite express. It wasn’t just about the song; it was about everything. The countless hours he had poured into his music, the sleepless nights spent trying to perfect every beat, every note — it all suddenly felt worthless. The words Tae-Joo had said echoed in his mind: "You’re not ready." He couldn’t shake it. Maybe Tae-Joo was right, and maybe everyone else was right too. He wasn’t cut out for this. 

He stopped at a nearby convenience store and grabbed a bottle of soju without much thought. The fluorescent lights overhead buzzed as he made his purchase, and before long, he found himself sitting on a bench, taking slow sips from the bottle, feeling the sting of alcohol chase away the sting of failure. He stared down at his hands, the hands he thought would make music, hands that now felt useless. The more he drank, the more the doubt consumed him. 

Yujin had always believed he could make something of himself in music, that if he just kept trying, one day he would prove everyone wrong. But now, it felt like the opposite was happening — he was proving them right. Wonyoung’s cautious words, his mother’s ultimatum — they all echoed in his mind. Maybe they all knew something he didn’t. Maybe he was chasing an impossible dream. Maybe the world wasn’t waiting for him to succeed like he had once thought. 

As the night grew darker, Yujin’s body felt heavier with each step. He downed more of the soju, hoping to drown out the crushing disappointment that sat deep in his chest. By the time he reached the apartment, he was staggering, his mind foggy and his heart aching. 

The door clicked open, and Wonyoung was waiting for him. She had been worried, wondering why he hadn’t come home on time. But the moment she saw his disheveled appearance and the faint smell of alcohol, her heart sank. 

"Yujin?" she called out softly, her voice filled with concern as she approached him.

Yujin stumbled inside, dropping his bag carelessly on the floor. His usually bright eyes were dull, clouded with disappointment and pain. He tried to avoid her gaze, afraid of what he might see in her eyes — disappointment, maybe pity. 

"Are you okay?" Wonyoung asked, stepping closer, her hands gently reaching for him. 

He shook his head, biting his lip, trying to hold back the flood of emotions that had been building all night. He could feel the tears threatening to spill as he slumped onto the couch, rubbing his hands over his face. 

Wonyoung sat beside him, her hand resting softly on his knee. "What happened?" 

Yujin exhaled shakily, the alcohol loosening his tongue but also making the words harder to say. "Tae-Joo… he said they’d buy the song, but I wouldn’t get credit. He said I’m not ready, that there are better people, more talented people." His voice cracked, and he let out a shaky breath. "I thought this was my big chance, but… I’m not good enough. I’m just… not good enough." 

“You are good enough.”

"No, I’m not. I’ve been kidding myself, Wonyoung." His voice wavered, and tears finally started to fall, his body shaking with quiet sobs. "Everyone’s been right. You were right. My mom was right. I’m not cut out for this. I… I should have listened." He wiped his face roughly, the alcohol making everything worse, his emotions spilling over uncontrollably. "I’m sorry. I’m so sorry. I wanted to prove I could do it, that I could make something of myself, but I just… I failed again." 

Wonyoung found herself at a loss for words. She hadn’t meant to say it, but it slipped out. "I had a feeling it wasn’t going to work out like you imagined," she said quietly, almost too quietly. As soon as the words left her lips, she winced, immediately regretting how harsh and unfiltered they sounded. 

Yujin looked up at her with wide, wounded eyes, his expression crumbling even further. Wonyoung bit her lip, realizing what she had just said. "I’m sorry," she whispered, stepping closer to him. "I didn’t mean it like that. I’m so sorry." 

But her words, though she hadn’t intended them to hurt, felt like a sharp reality check to Yujin. It was as if everything he had been denying and pushing away suddenly came crashing down in front of him. He had put so much hope into the music internship, and hearing Wonyoung say those words made him feel like he had been fooling himself all along. 

His chest tightened, and before he could stop it, the sobs came. His body shook as he covered his face with his hands, tears streaming down uncontrollably. "I’m sorry," he choked out between sobs, his voice cracking. "I’m such a failure. I let you down. I let everyone down." 

Wonyoung’s heart shattered seeing him like this. She quickly wrapped her arms around his shoulders, pulling him close. "No, Yujin, no. You didn’t let me down. I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have said that," she whispered, rubbing his back soothingly. "You’re not a failure. You’re not." Wonyoung tightened her hold on him, shaking her head. "You didn’t let me down. You’re trying, and that’s what matters. This is the real world, and it’s hard, okay? We experience failures before we win, but that doesn’t mean you give up. We’ll get through this, together." 

She held him for a long time, letting him cry it all out, whispering soft reassurances in his ear until his sobs began to quiet down. Slowly, she pulled back, brushing away the tears on his face with her thumbs, giving him a soft, loving smile. "Let’s not think about this right now, okay?" she said gently, taking his hands. "How about we go to bed? It’s late, and you need to rest." 

Yujin sniffled and nodded, still feeling the weight of everything but also comforted by her presence. He stood up shakily, allowing Wonyoung to guide him to the bedroom. 

As he sat on the edge of the bed, feeling exhausted from the emotional rollercoaster, Wonyoung knelt in front of him, holding his hands once more. "Tomorrow’s the weekend," she said softly, her eyes meeting his. "How about we go on a date? Just you and me, okay? We can forget about everything for a little while. No applying for jobs, no stress. Just us." 

But deep down, Yujin wasn’t sure if he believed her. The self-doubt was too heavy, the failures too real. As he closed his eyes and leaned into Wonyoung’s embrace, he felt lost, unsure of who he was or where he was going. All he knew was that he couldn’t do it alone. 

***

Yujin’s breathing had finally evened out, his head resting against her shoulder, completely drained from crying. As she held him close, she couldn’t stop thinking about everything that had happened — how Tae-Joo had exploited Yujin, how unfair the industry seemed, and how broken Yujin had become. 

Her eyes shifted to Yujin’s phone, resting on the nightstand. They had always trusted each other completely, sharing their passcodes and passwords without hesitation. The thought of Tae-Joo manipulating Yujin, taking advantage of his innocence, gnawed at her. She had to know more. She needed to see if there were any loopholes in what Yujin had signed. If there was any way to fight back, or if Tae-Joo had trapped him. 

Her eyes narrowed as she read the messages, feeling her anger grow with every word. Tae-Joo had been so charming and encouraging at first, making Yujin believe in his potential, only to slowly push him to work harder without proper recognition. He had built Yujin up just to use him, it seemed. And Yujin, always so sweet and trusting, never saw through it. 

Wonyoung’s fingers shook slightly as she exited the messages and went to his email. She quickly found the soft copy of the contract Yujin had signed for the unpaid internship. Her heart sank as she skimmed through the terms. There it was — a vague clause about the ownership of any work Yujin produced during his training. Tae-Joo had made sure that Yujin’s contributions could be used without giving him any real credit. 

She clenched her jaw, feeling a wave of protectiveness surge through her. How could Tae-Joo do this to him? Wonyoung stared at the contract, her mind spinning with possibilities. She wasn’t a lawyer yet, but she had enough experience working at Mrs. An’s law firm to understand what was happening. There had to be a way to get Yujin out of this, to fight for him or at least get something real from the song he produced.

The ownership rights clause was clear — anything Yujin produced during his internship became the intellectual property of the label. He wouldn’t own the song he had poured his heart into. Wonyoung’s eyes narrowed when she spotted the non-disclosure agreement. It was airtight. Yujin wouldn’t be able to speak about his involvement in the production, let alone claim any credit. The realization hit her hard: Tae-Joo had locked Yujin into silence while he would benefit from Yujin’s work. 

She sighed, brushing Yujin’s hair softly. She felt a deep sense of guilt. Yujin had been too happy, too trusting, to sign anything without second thoughts. He had been so eager to prove himself, to feel like he was finally making it, that he probably didn’t even read the contract thoroughly or if he did, he probably didn’t understand it.

Wonyoung bit her lip, her mind racing. I should have known... She should have made sure to be there when he signed it. After all, she knew about this kind of stuff — she had seen contracts like this at his mother’s law firm. She knew the dangers of not reading the fine print. But she hadn’t intervened, and now Yujin was stuck in a legally binding agreement that left him with nothing but the hope that he would get a decent payout for the song he had created.  

She shifted slightly, careful not to wake him, but her heart was heavy. She could have prevented this. The best-case scenario, as she saw it now, was Yujin receiving the most money he could from the sale of the song, but even then, he wouldn’t get credit. No recognition, no proof that he was the creator. It was a harsh reminder of how cruel the music industry could be. 

As she watched Yujin sleep, Wonyoung made a silent promise to herself. She wouldn’t let something like this happen again. Yujin was too trusting, too pure-hearted for this kind of world. She would protect him, even if that meant pushing him toward something more stable, more practical — something that wouldn’t break his spirit or leave him feeling worthless. 

Chapter Text

The following morning, Wonyoung gently brushed Yujin's hair back as he slept. Quietly slipping out of bed, she made her way to the kitchen and called Yujin's mother.

"Hello, Mrs. An, it's Wonyoung," she began, her voice soft but serious. "I need to tell you what happened with Yujin’s training. He produced a song, and... well, I think there's something shady going on with Tae-Joo, his producer." She explained everything — the contract, the rights to Yujin's song, and how she suspected that Tae-Joo was exploiting him. 

Mrs. An listened carefully, her concern evident. "Thank you for telling me, Wonyoung. I'll look into this. Please keep an eye on him." 

Wonyoung promised she would, then hung up, sighing. For now, she wanted to take Yujin's mind off things, at least for a little while. She decided to make him a special breakfast — a whole meal korean breakfast food.

After preparing everything, Wonyoung tiptoed back into their bedroom, balancing the tray of food. She set it down on the bedside table, then gently shook Yujin's shoulder. "Honey, wake up. I made breakfast." 

Yujin stirred, his eyelids fluttering open. His voice was groggy, laced with the sleep still lingering. "I thought you didn’t like food on the bed," he muttered, his face half-buried in the pillow. 

"Today’s an exception." Slowly, he got up. They ate in quiet contentment, the simple act of sharing breakfast giving them both a sense of peace after the tumultuous night. 

As Yujin chewed, Wonyoung looked at him, her eyes soft. "How are you feeling?" she asked gently, knowing that last night’s emotions were still weighing on him. 

Yujin paused, swallowing before answering. "I'm okay, I guess," he said, though his tone was still heavy. "Still sucks... but I’ll be fine." 

Wonyoung gave him a reassuring smile. "Good. Because I was thinking... let’s go to Lotte World later. What do you think? A day of rides, fun, and just forgetting everything for a while." 

***

At Lotte World, Wonyoung could feel the weight of Yujin’s recent disappointment hanging over them, and she was determined to lift his spirits. Usually, it was Yujin who acted as the moodmaker, the playful one between them, but today, she wanted to take the reins. She led him to a small stall selling headbands and fun accessories. 

“Come on, honey,” Wonyoung said, picking out a few options. She grabbed a tiny cap with a colorful propeller attached on top and handed it to him. Yujin stared at it for a second, and Wonyoung tilted her head, giving him a cute nudge. “I think it’ll suit you,” she teased, hoping to get a reaction. 

Yujin, still subdued but unable to resist her persistence, took the cap and placed it on his head. It spun slightly with the breeze, making Wonyoung giggle. “See? You look so cute,” she said. She picked up a fluffy sheep ear headband and put it on herself, turning to face Yujin. “What do you think? Am I a cute sheep?”

Yujin’s lips curled into a small smile — soft, but genuine. His dimples appeared faintly, and that tiny bit of joy lifted Wonyoung’s heart. “You’re definitely the cutest sheepnyeong, my wonyang,” Yujin replied, his voice a little more upbeat than before. 

Seeing the smile on his face, even if just a little, felt like a victory to Wonyoung. “There’s the smile I missed,” she said, giving his cheek a gentle pinch. “Now come on, we need a photo with these on.” 

As they took a selfie together, Wonyoung leaned into him, her sheep ears flopping against his cheek while the little propeller spun lazily on top of his head. The camera clicked, capturing a moment where, for just a second, things felt light again. 

***

As the carousel began to spin, Yujin and Wonyoung found themselves in the midst of a whimsical ride. Yujin sat on a knight horse, gripping the pole, while Wonyoung perched gracefully on the horse adorned with roses right beside him. The horses bobbed up and down, and the lights twinkled around them.

Wonyoung turned to Yujin with a smile. "You know, these horses suit us," she said. "Me with the roses, and you, the knight." 

Yujin let out a light chuckle, shaking his head. "I don't know about that... I think you should be on the knight horse," he said, giving her a playful glance. "You're the one taking care of me more these days. Feels like you're the knight protecting me." 

Wonyoung clicked her tongue and shook her head firmly. "Tsk, nope," she said. "Down moods aren’t allowed today. We're here to have fun, so no more of that." Then, with a warm smile, she reached out and grabbed Yujin's hand. 

Yujin looked down at their intertwined fingers, feeling the warmth of her palm. His heart softened, the gesture filling him with a sense of comfort. As the carousel moved them slowly in circles, he couldn’t help but admire how Wonyoung was doing her best to lift him up today, and how lucky he felt to have her by his side. 

"Thank you, Wonyang."

***

After the carousel, Yujin and Wonyoung went on a roller coaster, followed by the pirate ship, and even the spinning teacups. Each ride brought out Yujin’s laughter, and though he was usually the one cracking jokes or teasing Wonyoung, today she was doing everything in her power to keep the mood light and fun. She made silly faces at him, screamed exaggeratedly on the drops, and even tried to scare him before the rides started. His smiles were coming more easily now, his dimples showing as he laughed at her antics. 

After a whirlwind of rides, they decided to take a break. Sitting on a bench, they bought a quick snack of corndogs and sodas, enjoying the food as the bustling energy of Lotte World surrounded them. 

Yujin, chewing on his food, looked over at Wonyoung. "Thank you, honey," he said softly, his eyes full of appreciation. 

Wonyoung, mid-bite of her corndog, looked at him and raised an eyebrow. "The day's not over yet."

"I know," Yujin said, a soft chuckle escaping his lips, "but I appreciate this. Everything." He paused, wiping his hands. "Tomorrow, I’ll start applying for jobs again," he said, determination creeping into his voice. "And... I’ll sell the song. I don’t want my work to go to a total waste." 

Wonyoung, hearing this, glanced at him thoughtfully. "About the song..." she began, taking a sip of her soda. "I was wondering if I could join the meeting when they formally buy it. I think I can help with the negotiation." 

"You really want to do that? You’re busy with school. Is it okay?" 

"I'll take care of it. And... I’m sorry I didn’t read the contract before you signed it. I should’ve been there." 

Yujin quickly shook his head, reaching out to touch her hand. "No, don’t say that. I’m sorry for relying on you so much." 

Wonyoung squeezed his hand in return, her expression soft. "I rely on you a lot too, Yujin. That’s what couples do, right? We’re there for each other." 

Yujin looked at her with a deep sense of gratitude, feeling the weight of her support, and realizing just how lucky he was to have her in his corner. Before the moment could get too heavy, Wonyoung grinned and stood up, pulling him up with her. 

"Alright, come on! We still have more rides to go!" she said brightly, tugging him along as they headed toward their next adventure.

***

After a day filled with thrilling rides, laughter, and moments of closeness, Wonyoung and Yujin decided to wind down with one last ride before heading home. Wonyoung glanced at the Ferris wheel in the distance, the lights reflecting off its slowly turning spokes. 

"Let's go on the Ferris wheel," she suggested, nudging Yujin playfully. 

Yujin smiled at her suggestion, his mood visibly lighter than it had been in the morning. "Yeah, that sounds nice." 

As the Ferris wheel ascended slowly, the world below them grew smaller, and the soft glow of Lotte World’s lights reflected in the distance. Yujin and Wonyoung sat across from each other in the small cabin, the gentle sway of the ride adding to the serene atmosphere of the evening. The day had been filled with laughter and adventure, but now, in the quiet of the Ferris wheel, there was a peaceful intimacy between them. 

Wonyoung glanced out at the distant lights before turning back to Yujin, a thoughtful look in her eyes. "You know," she began, "I never had this much fun before. Not until I met you. For the longest time, I couldn’t really afford to travel or take a break. My life was just... school, part-time jobs, and saving every penny." 

Yujin, still holding her hand from earlier, squeezed it gently, sensing the shift in her tone. "You’ve always worked so hard." 

Wonyoung let out a small sigh, glancing down for a moment before meeting his eyes again. "I’ve been working since I was 13," she admitted, her gaze faraway as if remembering those tough years. "Always doing part-time jobs because we were poor. My parents struggled, my dad was scammed in his business and we were in debt so I had to help. I knew from a young age that if you’re not rich or exceptional in some way, people don’t care about you. You become... irrelevant. You won’t get the same opportunities." Her words hung in the air, carrying the weight of years of experience. 

Yujin listened quietly, his heart swelling with admiration for her strength and determination. He never realized just how much she had been through. 

"And, at school, people teased me for wanting to be a lawyer," Wonyoung continued with a small, wry smile. "Law school is expensive, and they thought I was reaching too high. But I couldn’t let that stop me. I saved every bit I could. My parents sacrificed so much too." 

Her voice softened as she remembered. "The first time we really could breathe was after my pre-law degree because we also finished saving for the house we have now. But I was going to start law school soon, and we had to be careful with our money." 

She paused, looking out at the night sky, the city lights below flickering like stars. "Now, it feels surreal. I’m about to graduate law school next semester, and if all goes well, I’ll be the top of my class." She smiled, but there was a quiet intensity behind it. "All the hard work, the sacrifices... it’s finally paying off." 

Yujin, who had been silently listening, now spoke up, his voice filled with awe. "Wonyoung, I had no idea you went through so much," he said softly. "You’re... amazing. Everything you’ve accomplished, all on your own." 

Wonyoung looked at him, her expression softening. "I didn’t do it alone. I had my parents, and now... I have you." She smiled gently, brushing her fingers along the back of his hand. "And it’s not like it was all bad. I’m proud of where I am today." 

Yujin couldn’t help but feel a deep admiration for her. In this moment, he understood even more why Wonyoung was so driven, why she was always striving for more. Her determination wasn’t just about ambition — it was survival, it was the need to make something of herself and for her family. 

"I’m so proud of you," Yujin said, his voice soft but full of sincerity. "You’re... unstoppable, Wonyoung. You have a great mindset."

She chuckled at that, but there was a hint of emotion in her eyes. "Thank you," she murmured, her gaze meeting his. "And don’t forget, you’re part of my journey now. We’re in this together." 

***

After an eventful day at Lotte World, Yujin and Wonyoung stopped by the grocery store on their way back to the apartment. As they strolled through the aisles, Wonyoung picked out the ingredients for roast chicken, she wanted to be extra fancy tonight. And Yujin trailed behind her like an eager child, suggesting side dishes and snacks they could also get. 

When they finally got back home, arms full of bags, Wonyoung set everything on the kitchen counter. She stretched her arms above her head, feeling a little tired but still motivated. 

“Alright, I’ll start on the chicken,” she said, pulling out the ingredients. 

Yujin, already buzzing with anticipation, started untying his shoes. "You should shower first, honey. I'll handle things here," she added, flashing him a warm smile. 

But Yujin came up behind her and gently wrapped his arms around her waist. “Let’s shower together. It’ll be more fun,” he suggested, resting his chin on her shoulder. “The roast chicken takes about an hour to cook, right? We’ve got time.” 

Wonyoung raised an eyebrow but couldn’t help the smile tugging at her lips. “You always find a way to sneak in some mischief, don’t you?” She was used to his silly, affectionate ways, and despite her initial protest, she found the idea rather sweet. 

Yujin grinned, his dimples showing. "Only because it's more fun with you," he said earnestly. "I’ll help while you prepare it, though. I’ll plate the sides and get the laundry started. Deal?" 

“Deal,” Wonyoung chuckled, patting his cheek affectionately before turning back to her task. 

While she prepped the chicken, seasoning it and arranging the vegetables around it, Yujin was busy setting the table. He hummed a cheerful tune, occasionally peeking over to see what Wonyoung was doing. 

The apartment was filled with warmth, both from the oven heating up and from the domestic comfort of their little routine. Yujin’s hands moved quickly as he plated the sides they bought, then switched gears to throw the laundry into the machine. 

As Wonyoung slid the roast chicken into the oven, she glanced over her shoulder at him and smiled. It was moments like this — simple, shared moments — that made her feel so connected to him. The chaos and uncertainty of the outside world faded when they were together like this. “Ready to shower now.”

***

Steam began to fill the bathroom as the warm water cascaded down. Yujin and Wonyoung stood under the spray, the sound of the shower mixing with their soft laughter. It was playful at first — Yujin gently flicking water at Wonyoung, who playfully pushed him away. 

“Stop it,” she giggled, her cheeks flushing, though there was a warmth in her eyes that said she didn’t mind. 

Yujin grinned, his dimples showing as he took a step closer, the teasing flicker in his gaze fading into something more tender. His arms wrapped around her waist, pulling her under the water with him, their bodies warm and slick from the heat. Wonyoung’s hands instinctively found their way to his chest, and she couldn’t help but trace the outline of his tattoo, feeling the beat of his heart beneath her fingertips. 

“You’re so beautiful,” Yujin whispered, his voice low as he leaned his forehead against hers, his breath warm against her lips. Wonyoung smiled softly, biting her bottom lip as she looked up at him. 

They stood like that for a moment, close and quiet, the intimacy between them thickening. The water trailed down their skin, but the heat between them was what filled the air. Yujin slowly tilted her chin up, his lips brushing against hers in a soft, lingering kiss. It was gentle at first, almost teasing, but soon deepened as the tension between them built. 

Wonyoung responded eagerly, her hands sliding up to tangle in his wet hair as she pressed herself closer to him. Yujin's grip around her waist tightened, pulling her flush against his body. The kiss grew more urgent, their breathing becoming ragged as the steam surrounded them. It was a moment of passion, of connection, their bodies and hearts moving in sync. 

His fingers gently traced the curve of her waist before moving upward, slowly cupping her breast. His thumb brushed over her nipple, eliciting a soft gasp from Wonyoung, who arched her back slightly, leaning into his touch. The warmth of his hand against her skin sent shivers down her spine, and she closed her eyes, surrendering to the sensation. 

Wonyoung’s own hands roamed across Yujin’s chest, feeling the firmness of his muscles under her fingertips. As their lips met again in a deep, hungry kiss, her hand drifted lower, trailing over his abdomen and down to his length. She wrapped her fingers around him, and Yujin let out a low groan against her lips, his grip on her tightening slightly. 

Yujin’s other hand moved down to Wonyoung’s ass, squeezing gently, pulling her body even closer to his. Their skin was slick with water, making every movement between them feel more fluid, more intense. His touch wandered lower, slipping between her legs, teasing her, as his fingers found her sensitive spot. Wonyoung gasped softly, her hips instinctively moving against his hand, the sensation sending waves of pleasure through her. 

Her breath quickened as Yujin’s fingers moved in slow, deliberate motions, his touch both gentle and commanding. Wonyoung bit her lip, leaning her forehead against his shoulder as she moaned softly, her own hand stroking him in rhythm with his movements. The heat between them was almost unbearable, their breathing becoming more ragged as the tension built. 

They were both lost in the moment, the passion between them undeniable, their touches growing more urgent with every second. Yujin’s fingers continued their teasing exploration, while Wonyoung’s hand gripped him tighter, her strokes causing him to groan deeply against her neck. Their bodies pressed together, every inch of them yearning for more. 

The steam filled the small bathroom as the hot water continued to pour over them, their bodies pressed tightly together, slick with moisture and desire. Yujin’s lips never left Wonyoung’s as his hands roamed her body, one hand moving back to firmly cup her breast while the other teased her, fingers moving between her legs. Wonyoung’s soft gasps and moans echoed in the small space, her hand stroking Yujin’s length in response, matching the rhythm of his teasing touch. 

Their breath mingled, shallow and ragged, as their movements became more urgent. Yujin could feel the growing tension in Wonyoung’s body, the way her hips moved instinctively against his hand. The heat between them was electric, both of them teetering on the edge, lost in each other. 

Yujin’s fingers moved faster, his touch driving Wonyoung closer to the brink, and she could barely hold back the soft moan that escaped her lips as she felt herself nearing release. Her hand on Yujin’s length tightened, stroking him more deliberately, and Yujin groaned, his body trembling with the need to be closer to her. 

As Yujin’s fingers found just the right rhythm, Wonyoung cried out softly, her body tensing as the pleasure surged through her, her release washing over her in waves. She held onto Yujin tightly, her breath coming in short gasps as she rode the sensation. Yujin’s groans followed soon after, her strokes bringing him to his own climax as he came, his body shuddering against hers in the heat of the shower. 

They stayed like that for a moment, holding each other, their bodies still trembling from the intensity of the moment. Yujin, still breathless, leaned in and kissed her deeply, his hands resting on her hips as he positioned himself, ready to enter her, wanting to feel even closer. 

Wonyoung’s soft moans were swallowed by his mouth, her fingers gripping his shoulders as he felt his tip pressed against her entrance, pushing inside her. She felt his strength as he pressed her gently against the shower wall, the heat of his body competing with the warmth of the shower. The angle was deep and the that made her head fall back against the tiles.

“Honey…” she whimpered.

Yujin groaned inside her, his hand gripping the underside of her raised thigh to keep her steady while his other hand found her breast. Kneading it gently, his thumb brushing over her hardened nipple as he began to move.

Every thrust was deep and upward, the angle hitting a spot inside her that made her cry out. Her moans echoed in their small bathroom, mixing it with the sound of the running water. Yujin’s lips found hers again, their kiss messy and desperate as they lost themselves in each other.

Wonyoung clung to him, her nails digging into his back as her body responded to his every movement. “Yujin… oh my god,” she gasped, pulling back just enough to look into his eyes.

Yujin buried his face in the crook of her neck, his lips leaving a trail of kisses down her wet skin. Her breath hitched as his movements quickened, the sound of his hips meeting hers resonating in the steamy air. She leaned forward, capturing his lips in a searing kiss, their tongues tangling as her moans grew louder.

“Honey… I’m close.”

“Me too,” Yujin groaned, his grip on her tightening as he thrust harder, deeper. With a final cry, Wonyoung shattered around him, her body trembling as waves of ecstasy crashed over her. Yujin followed moments later, burying himself deep inside her as he spilled into her, his groan muffled against her neck. After a moment, he loosened his grip, easing her leg down gently as he held her close, their forehead against each other. “I love you.”

Wonyoung smiled, her chest still heaving as she looked up at him. “I love you too. Now, dinner first.”

***

As they lay in bed, the soft glow of the bedside lamp casting a warm light across the room, Yujin held Wonyoung close. His belly was full and his heart felt a little lighter after the long day they had spent together. He wrapped his arms around her, pulling her into a tight embrace, and buried his face into the curve of her neck, inhaling the sweet, familiar scent of her skin. 

"Thank you, honey," Yujin murmured softly against her neck, his voice thick with emotion. "For cheering me up today." He kissed the side of her neck.

Wonyoung smiled, her hand coming up to cup his face. She brushed her thumb over his cheek, teasing him, "Of course, honey. We’re a team, right? I’m always going to be right here with you." 

But Yujin’s next words were quieter, more vulnerable. "I’m sorry I’m not that smart," he admitted, his voice trembling slightly. "And I get so easily intimidated. I’m... I’m scared of failing again." 

Wonyoung felt a wave of protective anger rise in her chest. "Tae-joo will pay for what he did. You don’t need to worry about him," she said firmly. "I’ll make sure of that." But then she turned her gaze back to Yujin, her brows furrowed with concern. "But why are you so scared of failing? You’ve struggled before, with school and everything. What’s making this different?" 

Yujin’s breath hitched, and for a moment, he couldn’t speak. His voice cracked when he finally answered, his heart aching with a fear he’d been holding back. "I’m scared... I’m scared you’ll leave me, Wonyoung. If I’m not successful… if I’m not rich enough... if I can’t give you the life you deserve... I’m scared you’ll leave me." 

Tears welled up in Yujin’s eyes, and he buried his face in her chest, trying to hide his emotions, but Wonyoung’s heart ached seeing him like this. She held him tighter, her hands soothingly stroking his back. 

"Yujin," Wonyoung whispered, lifting his chin so he would look at her. "I’m here because I love you. You don’t need to be rich or perfect for me. I want you to be the best version of yourself. That’s all I care about." 

“But… what if I fail at the interviews again? What if no one wants to hire me?” 

Wonyoung sighed softly, knowing she had to be firm yet loving in her response. She shifted, sitting up a little so she could look him in the eyes. “Yujin, listen to me,” she began. “Failing and success go hand in hand. They’re a part of life. You don’t just get one without the other. I’ve failed too, you know." 

Yujin’s eyes widened slightly, surprised. “You? But you’re always so smart, and—” 

Wonyoung shook her head, cutting him off. “Just because I’m smart doesn’t mean everything comes easy. Do you know how many jobs I applied for before getting a part-time position at the law firm? A lot Yujin because I was just a student then. And I got rejected so many times. It wasn’t an automatic pass for me just because I had good grades.” 

She leaned in closer, cupping his cheek with her hand as she spoke, her eyes filled with sincerity. “And that’s okay. That’s life. We’re going to fail sometimes, but that doesn’t mean we give up. We keep trying, we keep going until we find that success, right?” 

Yujin listened to her words, his heart calming a little with each one. He could feel her determination and belief in him, even when he struggled to believe in himself. He nodded slowly, understanding but still feeling a weight on his chest. 

“I… I’ll keep trying,” he said softly. “Thank you, Wonyoung. And… sorry for being a burden.” 

Wonyoung frowned and shook her head, her hand sliding from his cheek to take his hand, giving it a firm squeeze. “Stop this negativity, Yujin. You are not a burden to me. You’re my partner, my honey, and we’re in this together. I’m here for you. I’ll help you however I can.” 

Her words were a balm to his troubled mind, and Yujin squeezed her hand back, feeling a mixture of gratitude and love well up inside him. He smiled, his dimples showing as he leaned in to kiss her softly. “I don’t deserve you,” he whispered against her lips. 

Wonyoung smirked playfully, pulling back just enough to tease him. “Of course you do. Now stop doubting yourself, okay?” 

Yujin held Wonyoung close. “Promise you’ll never leave me? Even if I don’t end up working in some top company?” 

Wonyoung, lying comfortably in his embrace, smiled softly as she gazed up at him. “Promise.” 

For a moment, the room fell quiet, only the gentle sound of their breathing filling the space. Wonyoung hesitated, then softly asked, “Yujin… are you done with music?” 

Yujin thought for a moment, his fingers tracing lazy patterns along her arm. “For now, I think I am,” he admitted. “It’s not practical like you said, and I need to find something stable. Besides, I can always make music after work, right? Maybe I’m just not cut out for a label company.” 

Wonyoung nodded thoughtfully, stroking his chest in a comforting rhythm. “That makes sense. You can always make music in your free time and send it out to companies later. There’s no rush. Having a stable job is always nice, no need to risk your future over a hobby,” she agreed. Then, with a teasing lilt, she added, “Besides, if we want to travel more — like really travel — and save for our future, we both need steady jobs, don’t we?” Her words, though lighthearted, carried a hint of expectation, making it clear what kind of future she envisioned for them. 

Her words pushing him to think more seriously about what he needed to do. The idea of their future together, building something stable, gave him a spark of hope. “Yeah, you’re right,” he replied with a small smile. “That sounds good… something to look forward to.” 

***

Wonyoung sat with Giselle and Liz at their favorite café, during break. She had just finished explaining what had happened to Yujin with Tae-joo, her voice tinged with frustration as she recounted how he had been cut off after giving away his hard work for almost nothing. Both Giselle and Liz listened intently, their brows furrowed in concern. 

Giselle leaned in, lowering her voice. "I’ve heard things about Tae-joo. He’s notorious for stealing music from young producers, especially those just starting out. He’ll promise them the world, get their tracks for next to nothing, and then ditch them once he has what he needs." 

Liz frowned, crossing her arms. "That’s so shady. How do these people get away with stuff like this?" 

Wonyoung’s jaw tightened. She hated the idea of Yujin being taken advantage of like that, but she wasn’t going to let it slide. "Do you think we can find anything on him? Maybe some kind of evidence?" 

Giselle’s eyes lit up. "Actually, yes. I’ve seen a few anonymous accounts online before, claiming they were burned by him. Let’s see if we can track them down." She pulled out her laptop, her fingers flying across the keyboard as she started digging through music forums and social media accounts. 

Wonyoung and Liz hovered over her, watching as she navigated through posts and discussions. After a while, Giselle found a few anonymous testimonies from producers who had been scammed by Tae-joo, all describing similar experiences. "See? He has a reputation," Giselle muttered. "It’s not just Yujin." 

Liz’s eyes widened as she scrolled further. "Look, one of them says they even have a recording of their meeting with him. Maybe we can reach out to this person?" 

Wonyoung nodded, her mind already spinning with ideas. "If we can get that recording, it might be enough leverage to help Yujin — and anyone else Tae-joo’s screwed over." 

A few messages later, they managed to get in touch with one of the anonymous producers. They arranged to meet at a small, discreet café a few days later. When they arrived, the young man — a weary-looking producer in his mid-20s — sat with his laptop open, nervously glancing around. 

"You’re here about Tae-joo?" 

Wonyoung gave him a reassuring smile. "Yes. My boyfriend went through the same thing with him. We’re hoping we can help each other out." 

The man sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I’ve been waiting for someone to call him out. I have a recording of our meeting — him admitting to cutting people off and underpaying. I never had the resources to fight back, but if you’re serious..." 

"We are," Wonyoung said firmly. "I’m in law school, and I know how to negotiate. We can use this to help not only you but other young producers, too." 

The man slid a USB drive across the table. "This is everything. If you can use it, do it. I just want to make sure people know what he’s doing." 

Wonyoung took the drive, her mind already forming a plan. "We will. We’ll let you know.”

***

One afternoon, Wonyoung led Yujin to a small café near the university. Yujin walked beside her, curious and also confused. He hadn’t expected anything special, thinking they’d just grab coffee after her classes. But as they stepped inside, Yujin’s eyes widened in shock when he spotted someone sitting at a table in the corner — Tae-joo, looking gloomy and uncomfortable, as though he didn’t want to be there. 

Yujin stopped in his tracks, his heart suddenly racing. "Wonyoung… what’s going on?" he whispered, feeling a knot of uncertainty forming in his stomach. 

Wonyoung glanced at him, her expression calm and composed. "Don’t be nervous," she said softly, placing a reassuring hand on his arm. "Just trust me." 

They made their way over to Tae-joo’s table. Tae-joo barely looked up, fidgeting with his coffee cup, clearly not thrilled about this meeting. Yujin hesitated before sitting down, still unsure of what was happening. He glanced at Wonyoung, but she simply gave him a nod.

Wonyoung wasted no time, pulling out a folder of papers and placing them on the table. "Shall we begin?" she said coolly, her voice steady and professional, despite the tension in the air. 

Yujin, still confused, watched as Wonyoung spread the documents out in front of Tae-joo. His eyes widened as he recognized one of the papers — the contract for the song he had made, the one Tae-joo had originally offered him a measly 1 million won for. But something was different. His heart skipped a beat as he scanned the new figures Wonyoung had added. The price had jumped to 25 million won, and there was an additional 2% royalty fee listed. And his mother’s name and signature was on the paper too.

His breath caught in his throat. "W-Wonyoung… what is this?" he stammered, unable to believe his eyes. 

Wonyoung glanced at him, her lips curling into a small, confident smile. "I found out that the song you made is going to be the main title track for one of the most popular groups in Tae-joo’s company," she explained. "Which means they stand to make a lot more than what they initially offered you. So, I renegotiated." 

Yujin’s eyes were wide with awe, his mind spinning. He had no idea Wonyoung had been working behind the scenes like this. The amount of money on the paper was staggering compared to what Tae-joo had initially offered, and the royalties meant he’d continue to earn from the song’s success. 

Tae-joo, meanwhile, looked frustrated but resigned. He shifted uncomfortably in his seat, clearly not happy about the new terms. "This is way more than what we agreed on," Tae-joo muttered, shooting Wonyoung a glare. 

Wonyoung didn’t flinch. "That’s because you undervalued the work," she replied smoothly. "You knew exactly how much the song was worth, it’s even way more than this, but you tried to take advantage of someone who didn’t. Now, if you want to use the song as the title track, this is the new offer. It’s fair compensation for Yujin’s work. Or should we go to the station instead and I’ll upload what I sent you yesterday?" 

Yujin sat there, completely mesmerized by Wonyoung’s confidence. She spoke with such authority, like a real lawyer in action. The way she handled the negotiation, the way she stood up for him — it left him speechless. He had always known Wonyoung was smart, but seeing her in action like this was something else entirely. 

Tae-joo sighed, rubbing his temples before finally speaking. "Fine," he muttered, defeated. "We’ll take the new terms. I’ll have the legal team draft the updated contract." 

Wonyoung nodded curtly, gathering the papers with a calm satisfaction. "Good. We’ll be waiting for the finalized version." 

As the meeting wrapped up, Yujin couldn’t help but stare at her in awe. His heart swelled with gratitude and admiration. Wonyoung had fought for him, stood up to someone like Tae-joo, and ensured that he got what he deserved. When they finally left the café, Yujin walked beside her in a daze, still processing everything that had just happened. 

"Wonyoung…" he began, his voice filled with awe. "That was… incredible." 

She smiled softly, glancing up at him. "I told you I’d help, didn’t I?" 

"You did more than that," Yujin said, shaking his head in disbelief. "I don’t even know how to thank you. You just… you made all of this happen." 

Wonyoung chuckled, playfully nudging him. "Just remember, honey, you’re worth it. I believe in you. Now, let’s go celebrate. Dinner’s on me." 

***

Yujin sat alone in their apartment, the soft hum of the refrigerator the only sound cutting through the stillness. His mind was clouded with thoughts he couldn't shake, no matter how hard he tried. After being cut off by Tae-Joo, the sting of rejection had stuck with him. He'd failed so many interviews since then that he'd lost count. Each one chipped away at his confidence, leaving him feeling smaller and more unworthy. He stared at the ceiling, trying to make sense of it all, but all he could feel was a deep pit of inadequacy. 

He sighed and leaned back on the couch, pulling his knees up and resting his head against them. "What am I doing wrong?" he whispered to himself. Wonyoung was always supportive, always kind, but there were moments when he could feel her patience wearing thin. Sometimes, she gave him a look — subtle, but enough to make his heart sink. When she caught him playing games on his phone or watching TV, that unspoken judgment hung in the air. The look that said, "Is this all you're doing? Are you even trying?" 

Yujin hated it. He hated that he felt lazy, that he couldn't meet her expectations. It wasn’t that he didn’t want to succeed — he did. More than anything. But the weight of failing interview after interview made him feel like he wasn’t enough for her, like he wasn’t good enough to deserve her. He applied to good companies, the ones nearby that he thought could offer stability. But some didn’t even bother to reply, and the ones that did gave him a chance at interviews he always seemed to blow. He knew she thought he wasn’t trying hard enough, that maybe he wasn’t putting in the same effort she would. She never said it outright, but he felt it, gnawing at him in the quiet moments. 

"I don’t want her to leave me," he mumbled under his breath, his voice shaky as the fear of losing her sank deeper into his chest. The thought of Wonyoung walking out of his life was unbearable. She was his everything — smart, driven, with her future laid out in front of her. And here he was, still struggling to find his footing, feeling like he was just wasting time. 

Wonyoung deserved someone successful, someone as ambitious as her. But Yujin couldn’t help but feel like he was stuck, waiting for her to tell him what to do, instead of figuring it out himself. He didn’t want to just coast through life, but every rejection made it harder to believe he could ever live up to her expectations. 

His phone buzzed with a text message from Wonyoung. "How’s your day, honey? Anything new? 😊" 

Yujin stared at the screen, his thumb hovering over the keyboard. He hesitated. What could he say? He hadn’t done anything productive. The usual dread of disappointing her crept up on him. He closed his eyes and breathed deeply, trying to push away the negativity. 

He typed back, "Nothing much, just at home." 

Yujin stared at the half-written text on his phone, his fingers hovering over the screen. He sighed, feeling a pang of guilt. He knew that wasn’t what Wonyoung wanted to hear, even though she would never say it outright. Her silence in these moments spoke louder than any words could. 

He deleted the message and typed again, "I’m applying to more jobs, honey. I'll pick you up after class." He paused, reading over the words before hitting send. That’s what Wonyoung wanted to hear. She wouldn’t directly tell him to get his act together, but Yujin knew her well enough to read between the lines. Every time they talked about their future, Wonyoung emphasized stability — the kind of stability that comes with a good job, saving freely, and being able to afford the life she envisioned for both of them. 

Her ambitions were clear: success and riches - even if she says something it always go back to those two. She dreamed of a life where they could travel without worrying about money, where they could live comfortably and buy anything they wanted. Yujin, on the other hand, was simpler. He was happy just to eat well, live freely, and enjoy both small and big things in life. But he also wanted to be successful — not just for himself, but for Wonyoung. He wanted to buy her the things she dreamed of, take her anywhere she desired. He wanted to be the man who could give her everything. 

Whenever he opened up to her, when he felt down or defeated, Wonyoung would comfort him, tell him that it was okay, that failure was part of the process. She was always there when he needed her. But when the dust settled and life went back to normal, Wonyoung would start pushing him again. She would nudge him, gently but firmly, to keep applying, to think practically, to work harder. 

And Yujin knew she wasn’t wrong. He knew she wanted the best for both of them, but sometimes, the pressure weighed heavily on him. It felt like no matter what he did, he was always trying to live up to her standards, to match her drive. She had her life mapped out, and Yujin was still figuring his out. 

He sent the message, feeling a small knot of tension release as he imagined her smile at the other end. He knew Wonyoung appreciated the effort, even if she didn’t always say it directly. It made him feel a little better knowing that he was trying, that he was doing something, even if the path was uncertain. 

His phone buzzed with her reply: "Good job, honey! 😊 Keep going, you’ve got this. We’ll be able to do so much once things settle down. I’m proud of you." 

Yujin stared at the message for a moment, a small smile forming on his lips. She always knew how to say the right things to lift him up. But deep down, he also knew that this encouragement came with an unspoken expectation. And so, the cycle continued — Wonyoung pushing him forward, and Yujin trying to keep up which is becoming harder and harder to ignore when the pressure is from all sides. 

He thought about his parents. His father had always been tough on him, but recently, his words cut deeper than ever. "Why don't you be more like Wonyoung?" he had said, almost like a reprimand. "Look at her — so ambitious, so smart. She's already got her future planned out. You should be doing the same. Man up, Yujin. Be responsible. We’ve let you lived together, we paid for the apartment for another year so you have nothing to worry about first. What else do you want?" 

Yujin felt the sting of those words every time he thought about them. His father meant well, but it made him feel like he wasn’t enough, like no matter what he did, he would always fall short of their expectations — especially when compared to Wonyoung. She was always the example, the standard he was supposed to reach. And even though he loved her, being constantly compared to her made him feel small, like he was failing not only her but himself.

Then there was his mother, who had always been a bit more gentle, but now she was starting to change her tone. She had told him a few days ago, her voice serious, "I've given you enough time, Yujin. It's been months. Yes, you made money from that song, but it’s not stable. You haven't earned much since then, have you?" 

And she was right. He hadn’t. The money from Tae-joo had been a burst of excitement, a glimpse of hope, but after that? Nothing. Music, as much as he loved it, wasn’t paying the bills. It wasn’t something he could rely on day after day. Some months, you could get lucky, land a gig, or sell a track. But then, there were long stretches of silence — no income, no opportunities. It was a harsh realization, one that was slowly settling in the back of his mind. 

Yujin sighed, running a hand through his hair as he stared at the ceiling. "Maybe they’re right," he thought bitterly. "Music isn’t a stable career path." One day, you could earn a decent amount, and then not make a single penny for months. It wasn’t something he could build a future on — not if he wants to end up with Wonyoung. It wasn’t just about finding a job anymore. It was about proving that he could be someone dependable, someone capable of building a life with Wonyoung, someone who wouldn’t let her and his parents down. 

He glanced at his phone, wondering if he should text Wonyoung again. She always supported him, always told him he could do it. But a part of him wondered if she was getting tired of waiting. Maybe she was as frustrated with him as his parents were, just better at hiding it. Wonyoung — she was supportive, yes, but she also wanted more. She needed him to keep up, to be her equal, someone she could count on to build the future they both dreamed of. 

***

After months of applying, interviews, and waiting. Yujin sat at his desk, staring at the two job offer emails on his laptop screen. His heart raced as he read the subject lines: one from a prestigious international marketing company, the other from a network station. The interviews were scheduled for the same day, and he felt torn between the two. The international company promised stability, a high salary, and long-term security — everything Wonyoung had been telling him he needed. It was the "smart" choice, the one that would give him a comfortable life, the kind of job Wonyoung always emphasized as necessary for their future. Inside his head, he could already hear her voice, logical and practical, guiding him toward the tech company. 

But then his eyes drifted to the other offer — the network company. The money wouldn’t compare to the other company, but it tugged at something deeper within him. His passion for music had been with him long before he ever considered the idea of corporate jobs. He had always dreamed of creating music, of being part of something artistic and meaningful. And the network station has a music side since they have a music show which idols attend to. The money he earned from the deal with Tae-joo had shown him that it was possible, but it also reminded him how unstable that path could be. Success in music wasn’t guaranteed, and failures like the one he experienced with Tae-joo still stung deeply.

His mind raced between the two possibilities. The international company — a sure way to help build a future for him and Wonyoung. They could start saving to finally buy the apartment they are living in as he had suggested to her, just enough for the two of them to start their life together here in Seoul. But when he’d brought it up to Wonyoung, she had told him she wasn’t ready yet. She still has to finish school and the bar exam ahead of her. She couldn’t afford it yet. And Yujin had felt a pang of guilt, realizing that if he really wanted to help her and start their future early, he needed as much money as he could get now. 

He sighed, running a hand through his hair, his thoughts swirling in a chaotic mess. He wasn’t sure if he was cut out for the corporate world, but he also knew that the dream of being a full-time music producer wasn’t a smooth path. There would be struggles, disappointments, and plenty of uncertainty. 

As he sat there, feeling the weight of both options pressing down on him, he couldn’t help but think of Wonyoung. He could already hear her reasoning in his head: "The international company is the obvious choice, Yujin. It’ll give us a better future, more stability. You’ll have more options if you take that offer." 

But there was a part of him — small but persistent — that wondered if he was giving up too easily on his dreams. Would taking the corporate job mean letting go of his passion for music forever? Or could he still make music on the side, as Wonyoung had once suggested? Even if nothing comes from it?

The knot in his chest tightened as he tried to picture their future together. He wanted to help her, to be the man who could provide for them, to make things easier for her while she focused on law school and the bar exam. He leaned back in his chair, closing his eyes for a moment, trying to quiet the storm inside his mind. What did he really want? The fear of failing again, the fear of disappointing Wonyoung, and the fear of giving up on his dream all swirled together, making it impossible to decide. If he chose the corporate company, he’d be giving them the life Wonyoung envisioned.

Chapter Text

Yujin stood in the sleek, modern lobby of the international company, his nerves rattling as he glanced around. Everything felt intimidating — the glass walls, the neatly dressed employees passing by, the hum of professionalism that filled the air. His mind buzzed with thoughts about the future. He wasn't confident anymore, not like he used to be, but here he was. He was trying. Wonyoung had texted him just before he arrived, a simple "Good luck, honey." It was short, but it carried weight, reminding him why he was here. 

He needed a stable job for, something that could match Wonyoung’s ambition and drive. They couldn’t start their life together on just passion and dreams, not if they wanted to have the kind of life he wanted her to have. He had to think practically, just like she did. Music would have to be a side project for now, and he would have to accept that. That was the deal.

As he waited for his interview, Yujin kept repeating that to himself — this was for their future. He’d find time for music later, but this job could give him the foundation he needed. He felt a sense of dread mixing with determination, but he pushed it down as much as he could. He had to go through with this. 

The interview felt like a blur. The questions came quickly, the words formal and technical. He answered them as best as he could, trying to focus on how much he wanted this to work out, even if he wasn’t passionate about the job itself. By the end of it, the interviewer smiled, offering him a glimmer of hope. "You did well. We’ll schedule you for a final interview soon," the man said. 

Yujin smiled politely, but inside, he felt a mix of relief and uncertainty. He had passed the first hurdle. But instead of feeling excited, he held back, unsure if he should tell Wonyoung right away. The memory of Fungmu lingered heavily in his mind. Last time, Wonyoung had been so excited for him. She had been so confident in his abilities. But then, everything had fallen apart, and he didn’t want to let her down like that again. What if this didn’t work out either? 

He bit his lip, contemplating. Should he call her? Would she be disappointed if he didn’t make it through the final round? Or was he overthinking? Maybe it wasn’t such a big deal after all. He had other interviews to attend, other opportunities lined up. If this didn’t work out, he could try somewhere else. But still, he couldn’t shake the feeling that Wonyoung would notice something was up when she saw his clothes in the laundry — he’d been out all day, and it wasn’t like he could hide it from her. 

Yujin sighed, feeling the weight of his indecision. He wanted to tell her, to share this small victory, but fear held him back. Would she be disappointed if he didn’t get the job in the end? Or worse, would she start to doubt him again? He shook his head, trying to push the thoughts aside. Maybe he just needed to take things one step at a time and not put so much pressure on himself. 

***

Yujin stood outside their apartment door, the weight of a cake box in his hands, his heart thumping with excitement. He had done it. The company had offered him a position in their digital marketing department — a job with a good salary, even at entry level, because it was an international company. He was going to earn in dollars. It felt surreal, like a huge weight had lifted off his shoulders, and now all he wanted was to share the news with Wonyoung. 

As he opened the door and stepped inside, the familiar warmth of their home greeted him. Wonyoung was sitting on the couch, a law textbook open on her lap, looking concentrated. Her head turned when she heard him come in. 

"Hey," she greeted him casually, then her eyes landed on the cake box. "What's that?" 

Yujin couldn't contain his grin as he kicked off his shoes and walked toward her, placing the cake on the table. His smile widened as he leaned down and kissed her on the forehead. 

"I got the job," he said, his voice trembling slightly with excitement. 

Wonyoung’s eyes widened, and she looked up at him, her mouth forming a perfect 'O' in shock. "What? You — wait, you got it?" she asked, her voice rising in excitement. 

"I did!" Yujin laughed, barely able to contain his joy. "I’m in! Digital marketing department, and guess what? The salary is higher than I expected. It’s international, so I’ll be earning in dollars." 

Wonyoung’s face lit up instantly. She jumped to her feet, wrapping her arms around his neck and hugging him tightly. "Yujin! Oh my God, I’m so proud of you!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with genuine excitement. "You did it! You really did it!" 

Yujin hugged her back just as tightly, burying his face in her hair as he soaked in her warmth and the moment. He had been so nervous to tell her, kept it from her til the final stage, unsure if he’d live up to her expectations, but seeing her so happy — so proud of him — made all the doubts disappear. 

"I couldn't have done it without you," Yujin said softly, pulling back just enough to look into her eyes. "You kept pushing me, reminding me that I could do more. This is for us, honey. For our future." 

Wonyoung smiled, her eyes shining. She cupped his face in her hands and kissed him on the lips. "You deserve this, Yujin. I’m so, so proud of you," she whispered, brushing her thumb gently along his cheek. "This is just the beginning, you know?" 

Yujin grinned and nodded. "Yeah. And I brought cake to celebrate." 

"Of course you did. You and your sweet tooth." 

They both sat down on the couch, Yujin eagerly opening the cake box. It was a simple cake, but the gesture behind it meant so much more. As they dug in, Wonyoung couldn’t stop smiling, and neither could Yujin. Every bite of cake tasted like victory, like all of the hard work and worry had finally paid off. 

"We should celebrate more," Wonyoung said between bites. "This is a big deal. I’ll cook something special tonight." 

"That sounds perfect," Yujin said, still feeling giddy. He looked at her, his heart full. "Thank you for always believing in me." 

"Always," Wonyoung said firmly, leaning over to kiss him again. "This is just the start of many more victories, Yujin." 

As they sat there, eating cake and enjoying the moment, Yujin felt a sense of peace wash over him. For the first time in a long time, he didn’t feel like he was falling behind. He had a stable job, something that would support their future together. And he can take her anywhere she wants to go now.

***

Yujin felt a wave of pride wash over him as he walked out of his office building, his first paycheck safely tucked in his bank account. It was a good feeling — no, a great one. For the first time in a long time, he wasn’t just scraping by or trying to find his footing earning from online games, buy and sell and part time jobs. He had a stable job, a high-paying one at that, and he felt accomplished. The international company had welcomed him, and he was excelling in the digital marketing department, but more than that, he felt he could truly support Wonyoung now. 

He wasn’t a burden anymore. 

Yujin was practically buzzing with excitement as he walked into their apartment, clutching a box of pastries in one hand and his first paycheck on his mind. He had been waiting for this moment for what felt like forever. The steady, well-paying job had finally given him the confidence he needed to treat Wonyoung properly, to show her just how much she meant to him. 

As he stepped inside, the smell of home greeted him, and he found Wonyoung sitting at the table, her laptop open and textbooks scattered. She looked up when she heard the door, her face lighting up instantly. 

“Hey,” she greeted, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. “How was work?” 

Yujin grinned, trying to contain his excitement. "Good. Actually, better than good," he said, placing his bag on the table. "But before I tell you anything, I need you to do something for me." 

Wonyoung raised an eyebrow, closing her laptop. "Oh? What’s that?" 

Yujin smiled mischievously, pulling her to her feet. "Go get dressed. Something nice, elegant. I’ve got a surprise for you." 

Wonyoung tilted her head, a curious smile forming. "A surprise? You’re not going to tell me what it is?" 

Yujin shook his head, his grin widening. "Nope. Just trust me. You’ll love it." 

She eyed him suspiciously but smiled. "Alright, fine. I’ll get ready." She disappeared into the bedroom, and Yujin could hear the rustling of clothes as she went through her wardrobe. 

A little while later, Wonyoung emerged from the bedroom, dressed in a nice white dress that hugged her figure perfectly. She looked stunning, her long hair cascading down her shoulders. 

"Okay," she said, twirling a little for him. "How do I look?" 

Yujin’s eyes widened, and his smile grew even brighter. "You look amazing. Absolutely perfect." He knew he was lucky — more than lucky — to have her by his side. 

Wonyoung laughed softly, walking over to him. "So, are you going to tell me where we’re going now?" 

Yujin shook his head again, taking her hand. "Nope, it’s still a surprise. Let’s go." 

As they entered the taxi, he kept the destination a secret, he couldn’t help but think back to their earlier days. How they had to save up for special occasions just to have a taste of fine dining. Wonyoung, being practical and driven, had never complained, but Yujin always felt a little guilty. But tonight was different. Tonight, he was treating her to a Michelin-starred restaurant, and for once, money wasn’t an issue. He smiled to himself, feeling a sense of pride swell inside him. 

When they pulled up in front of the Michelin-starred place. Wonyoung’s eyes widened in shock when she saw the elegant entrance, her hand tightening around his.

"Yujin... this is..."

He grinned, leading her inside. "Surprise." 

They were led at a table by the window, the view of the city sparkling outside. The ambiance was perfect — soft lighting, the quiet murmur of conversations, and the faint sound of classical music playing in the background. 

“Okay, handsome," Wonyoung greeted him with a smile as he approached the table. "What's the occasion?" 

Yujin grinned, pulling out the chair for her before taking his own seat. "My first paycheck," he said proudly. "So, I’m treating you to something special. No more saving up to eat somewhere nice." 

Wonyoung laughed softly. "You didn’t have to do this, Yujin.”

Her words hit him right in the heart, and he felt a swell of gratitude. "I know I didn’t have to, but I wanted to. You’ve supported me so much through everything — through law school, through the Tae-joo mess, all of it. I wanted to give something back, to show you that I can take care of us now." 

Wonyoung reached across the table and took his hand, her touch grounding him. "You’re already taking care of me, Yujin. And I will always want the best for you."
 
Yujin felt a lump in his throat, but he smiled through it. They spent the rest of the evening enjoying the exquisite dishes — something they had always dreamed of doing more often. The ambiance was luxurious, the food artfully plated, and the wine flowed freely. Every bite felt like a celebration of how far they had come together. Yujin couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of contentment. 

As they finished dessert, Yujin leaned back in his chair, feeling full and satisfied. "You know," he said, his voice softer now, "I never thought I’d be able to give you this. But here we are. And it feels... right." 

"It’s just the beginning, honey.”

Yujin laughed, a little bashful. "I just want to be able to support you through law school, make sure we’re set for the future." 

“And we’re already on that track.”

***

The auditorium was packed, a sea of black graduation caps and gowns filling every row. The energy in the air was electric, buzzing with the collective anticipation of proud families and students ready to step into their futures. Yujin sat with Wonyoung’s parents, dressed in a simple yet smart suit, his hands folded in his lap, trying to quell the excitement bubbling inside him. His heart was pounding in his chest, a mix of pride and admiration as his eyes searched the stage for one person. 

Wonyoung. 

She was at the top of her class, valedictorian, the best and brightest in a sea of talented students. He had known how hard she had worked to get here. Late nights studying, the stress of exams, and somehow still finding time for him. And now, she was standing at the pinnacle of it all, about to give her valedictorian speech. 

When they announced her name, Yujin’s heart skipped a beat, and the audience erupted in applause. He saw Wonyoung walk to the podium, her face calm and composed, yet radiant as ever. She looked beautiful in her cap and gown, her academic achievement practically glowing off her. As she adjusted the microphone, the room quieted down, all eyes on her. 

Yujin couldn’t help but smile. This was her moment. He was so proud of her. 

Wonyoung began her speech, her voice clear and confident, the words carefully chosen as always. "Today, we stand on the precipice of our futures. Some of us were born into privilege, and some of us were not. But today, it doesn’t matter where we started — what matters is where we’re going and how we’ve fought to get here." 

Yujin’s chest swelled with pride as she spoke, her words resonating with him on a deeper level. 

"I’ve learned through this journey that it’s not about how much money you have, or where you come from — it’s about grit. It’s about determination, perseverance, and never giving up, even when it seems like the odds are stacked against you. We define our own success. We don’t wait for it to be handed to us, and we don’t let anyone tell us what we can or cannot achieve." 

Yujin listened intently, feeling a rush of inspiration fill his chest. She was talking about herself, yes, but she was also talking about him, about everyone in that room who had ever felt like the cards were stacked against them. Her words resonated with him deeply — especially after the struggles he'd faced earlier in the year with failed interviews, doubts about his future, and questioning whether he was worthy of her ambition. 

Wonyoung continued, "Success isn’t about having a head start. It’s about not stopping when others would have given up. It’s about putting in the work, over and over again, until you’ve carved out the path you want to walk. And that path, however difficult, is yours and yours alone to claim." 

Yujin’s heart pounded as he sat there, in awe of the woman standing on the stage. She was brilliant, eloquent, and driven — everything he loved about her was shining brightly in this moment. He felt a surge of motivation. Both of them had worked so hard to get here, and now that she was about to enter the next phase of her life, he was determined to be right there beside her, supporting her through every step. 

Wonyoung finished her speech to thunderous applause. Yujin stood, clapping as hard as anyone in the room, his hands almost sore from the force of his admiration. His chest swelled with pride, his eyes slightly misty. Wonyoung, his Wonyoung, was valedictorian — top of her class, and she had just delivered a speech that would stay with him for a long time. 

As the ceremony concluded and the graduates were congratulated by their families, Yujin found Wonyoung in the crowd. She was surrounded by friends and well-wishers, but her eyes met his as soon as he approached. She smiled, that radiant, confident smile, and before he could say anything, she was in his arms. 

"You were incredible." 

"Thank you," she said softly, pulling away to look at him. "I’m so glad you were here." 

"Of course," he said, his hands still resting on her waist. "I wouldn’t have missed this for the world. I’m so proud of you." 

She smiled, but Yujin could see the relief behind her eyes — relief that this chapter was over, and that she had achieved everything she had set out to do. But the road wasn’t finished. She still had to pass the bar, and Yujin knew that he’d be there to support her through all of it. He would do whatever it took to make sure she succeeded. 

As they walked back toward her parents, hand in hand, Yujin couldn’t help but feel like everything was finally falling into place. Wonyoung was on the verge of becoming the brilliant lawyer she had always dreamed of being, and he was finally in a good place with his career, just as they had always promised. 

***

Yujin had gone all out for their third anniversary, planning a romantic weekend that he knew would make Wonyoung feel special. He had saved up carefully, wanting to give them both a taste of luxury they could now afford. As they arrived at the five-star hotel, Wonyoung marveled at the grandeur of the lobby, her eyes shining with excitement. Yujin grinned, happy to see her so impressed, and it made all the effort worth it. 

Their first stop was a couple's massage at the hotel spa. The soothing atmosphere, soft music, and gentle aromas were perfect for helping them unwind. Yujin watched Wonyoung relax as the tension melted from her body, knowing how hard she'd been working. He wanted this weekend to be about both of them taking a breath, away from the pressures of law school, work, and the future they were constantly planning. He needed it too, a chance to recharge and just enjoy being with her. 

Later that evening, they dressed up for an expensive dinner at a fine restaurant. The atmosphere was elegant, something they are not used to, with dim lighting and soft music playing in the background. Wonyoung looked stunning, and Yujin couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride as they sat together, indulging in dishes they’d once only dreamed of affording. He felt proud to be able to treat her like this, to finally be in a place where he could give her the best without worrying about the bill. 

After dinner, they returned to their luxurious hotel room. The soft glow of the lamps made the room feel warm and inviting, and Yujin had one more surprise up his sleeve. As Wonyoung sat on the bed, he pulled out a small, elegant gift box, along with a bouquet of her favorite flowers sitting on the bedside table.

Her eyes lit up with curiosity as she took the box, gently opening it to reveal a necklace with a compass pendant. She stared at it for a moment, then looked up at Yujin, a soft smile on her face. 

“Why a compass?” she asked, her fingers tracing the pendant. 

Yujin smiled warmly and stepped closer, taking the necklace from the box. He gently clasped it around her neck, his hands brushing her skin as he did so. “Because you’re my compass,” he said softly. “Ever since I met you, I’ve had direction in my life. You’re the person who gave meaning to everything. Before you, I didn’t know where I was going, but now... now I know. You’re my lucky charm, Wonyoung. Happy anniversary.”

Wonyoung leaned in and kissed Yujin softly, her lips brushing against his in a moment of pure affection. Pulling back slightly, she gazed into his eyes, her voice gentle yet filled with certainty. 

"These past three years with you," she whispered, her fingers tracing the line of his jaw, "have been so happy. I feel like we’re both exactly where we should be." She smiled, her eyes warm. "I’m going to study hard for the bar exams, and you... you’ve started off strong, in a good company, earning well. Everything is falling into place for us. Happy anniversary." 

Yujin felt his heart swell with emotion, her words filling him with a deep sense of contentment. He smiled, leaning down to kiss her again, this time with more intensity, more passion. Their lips moved together in sync, and he could feel the connection between them deepening with every kiss. 

Slowly, Yujin guided her back onto the bed, his hands cradling her gently as they sank into the plush mattress. Their kisses grew more heated, more intense, as the moment took over them. His fingers tangled in her hair, and he could feel her heartbeat against his chest as they pressed closer together. 

Their eyes met, and for a moment, everything was still — just the sound of their breathing, the warmth of their bodies, the intensity of their connection. Then, Yujin pulled her close, their bodies pressed together as he kissed her again, his lips hungry and passionate, exploring every inch of her with reverence and tenderness. 

As Yujin's kisses deepened, the heat between them grew, their hands exploring each other with newfound urgency. Wonyoung’s breath hitched as she felt Yujin’s warm touch gliding down her sides, his fingers gently tracing the curves of her body. 

With every kiss, Yujin felt the intensity rise, the world outside fading away as his attention was solely on her — on how soft her skin felt, on how her breath hitched every time he touched a sensitive spot. He kissed down her neck, savoring the quiet gasps that escaped her lips, moving lower until his mouth hovered near her collarbone. 

Wonyoung let out a soft moan as he cupped her breasts, the sensation sending a shiver down her spine. She responded by running her fingers through his hair, tugging gently as she guided his lips back up to meet hers, their mouths crashing together in a fevered kiss. Her hands moved to his shirt, fumbling with the buttons before she slid it off his shoulders, feeling the warmth of his skin against hers as she pressed herself closer to him. 

Yujin’s heart raced as he felt her hands roam over his chest, and with a sense of tenderness, he slowly guided her back onto the bed, his hands slid down her sides, finding the zipper of her dress then tugged it down, revealing the soft curves of her body beneath as his lips travel downward. He pressed soft kisses over the lacy fabric of her bra before unclasping it and letting it fall away. Her skin flushed under his gaze, and she let out a soft moan as his mouth found her bare nipple, sucking gently while his other hand caressed her side.

Her fingers tangled in his hair, holding him close as he lavished attention on her breasts, his tongue flicking and swirling in ways that made her body arch into him. The friction of his mouth against her sensitive skin sent pleasure through her.

“Honey…” she breathed, her voice filled with need as he shifted, positioning himself between her thighs. 

Yujin’s hard length pressed against her through his pants as he ground his hips against her, creating a friction that made her whimper. His hand roamed her body, stroking her thighs, her waist, her arms, as his lips continued their worship of her breasts.

Wonyoung’s hand slid down his chest, her touch deliberate and teasing as she reached the waistband of his pants. She fumbled with the button, her fingers trembling slightly with anticipation as she finally freed him. Sliding the fabric down his hips, she exposed him completely, her cheeks flushing as she took in the sight of him.

Yujin groaned softly as he kicked off his pants, his eyes dark as he returned his focus to her. He hooked his fingers into the sides of her underwear, sliding them down her legs and tossing them aside. His gaze lingered on her slick pussy, and he let out a growl at the sight. He hovered Wonyoung, their bare bodies pressed together, heat radiating between them as his clock slid against her entrance. The deliberate way he teased her, rubbing himself along her folds, sent shivers down her spine. Every subtle movement made her hips rise instinctively, seeking more of him, needing him to fill her.

“Yujin…” she whimpered, her fingers gripping his shoulders as her head tilted back against the pillows. “Please, I need you now.”

Her plea sent a jolt of heat through Yujin, and he groaned low in his throat, positioning himself at her entrance. With a single, sharp thrust, he pushed into her, his length stretching her. Wonyoung cried out as he didn’t hold back. His movements were rough and hard, each thrust hitting deep and perfectly angled, making her toes curl. 

As her body moved in sync with his, Wonyoung’s mind began to wander, her thoughts interspersed with the overwhelming pleasure.

It’s incredible how far we’ve come, she thought, her inner voice almost drowned out by her gasps. When we first started, Yujin was so careful, always asking if it felt good, if I liked it, if I was comfortable. He was so shy, so sweet, and always wanted to make sure I was okay.

She let out a sharp cry as Yujin adjusted his angle, hitting the spot that made her squirm.

But now… now he knows my body like it’s own. He doesn’t need to ask me anymore - he just knows. He knows what makes me squirm, what makes me cry out, and what drives me absolutely wild. He knows me better than I know myself, and I love it.

Yujin’s pace quickened, his hips snapping against hers with precision and urgency. One hand gripped her thigh, pulling her leg higher to deepen the angle, while the other slid up to cup her breast, his thumb brushing over her nipple. As he studied Wonyoung’s flushed face, and the way she clenched around him, he wanted to make this moment even more intense, to hear her scream his name as he drove her to the edge.

He reached for a pillow, slipping it beneath her hips to angle her just right. Then, he lifted her legs, draping them over his shoulders, and shifted closer, his cock pushing even deeper inside her.

The new angle was overwhelming for Wonyoung. The sensation of him inside her, hitting a spot so sensitive sent her spiraling. She gasped loudly, her hands gripping the sheets as her body writhed beneath him. 

“Oh!” she cried out, her voice trembling with pleasure.

The depth and intensity of his thrusts were almost too much, she couldn’t stop the moans and whimpers spilling from her lips, her body completely at his mercy.

Yujin groaned deeply, his hand gripped her thighs firmly to keep her in place as he thrust harder and faster. He leaned down slightly, the position pressing her legs against his chest and allowing him to push deeper.

“I love your body so much, Wonyoung…”

Wonyoung could barely respond, her head thrashing against the pillow as she gave herself over to the pleasure. Every thrust, every brush of his cock against that sweet spot inside her, was driving her higher and higher.

“God, Yujin! I-fuck!” she gasped, her words breaking off into a loud moan as pleasure crashed over her.

Her walls clenched around him, pulling him deeper as her orgasm tore through her body. Her legs trembling against his shoulders. Yujin watched her come undone beneath him, her body shaking with pleasure, her face flushed, and her lips parted as she gasped for air. The sight of her in ecstasy pushed him to the edge.

With a few more deep, powerful thrusts, he groaned loudly, his body tensing as he released inside her. His movements slowed, becoming more languid as he rode out his climax.

Wonyoung whimpered softly, her body still sensitive from the intensity of it all, her legs slipping from his shoulders as he gently lowered them.

Yujin leaned down, pressing a soft kiss to her forehead. “Happy third year anniversary.”

She smiled weakly, still catching her breath as she wrapped her arms around him. “Happy anniversary.”

***

Yujin and Wonyoung lay in bed, their bodies comfortably intertwined under the soft glow of the bedside lamp. The room was quiet except for their steady breathing. Yujin traced lazy circles on Wonyoung’s arm and then broke the silence. 

"I’ve been thinking… about getting another tattoo," Yujin murmured, his voice soft, almost as if testing the waters. 

Wonyoung lifted her head slightly from his chest, meeting his eyes with a raised brow and a small smile. "Another one? What this time?" 

"A compass," Yujin said, his eyes gleaming with thought. "Like the pendant I gave you. I’ve been thinking it would be nice to have something meaningful like that on me too." 

Wonyoung smiled at the mention of the necklace and gently touched the pendant that now rested on her chest. "Where do you plan to put it?" 

Yujin looked away for a moment, pondering. "I’m not sure yet. I was thinking maybe you could help me decide." He gestured with his hand. "Maybe on my spine, or the inner forearm, or even on my biceps or legs. Not sure." 

Wonyoung shifted, propping herself up slightly on her elbow as she looked at him thoughtfully. "This would be your third tattoo now, right? First, the one with my name on your collarbone," she teased lightly, her fingers brushing the area, "then the treble clef behind your ear." Then she urged him to turn around.

"Yeah," Yujin chuckled. "I’m collecting them." 

Wonyoung chuckled too and then traced a finger down his spine. "Maybe this time, put it on your back, on your shoulder." 

"You think?" 

She nodded, her finger still lightly drawing patterns on his skin. "I kind of like your tattoos being hidden. They’re special that way, like something only I get to see when you’re naked. It makes it… more intimate." 

Yujin considered her words, a slow grin spreading across his face. "Okay, I like that idea. Hidden, but still there. Something just for us." 

"Exactly," she replied, kissing his shoulder. "Your back would be perfect." 

A few days later, Yujin went through with it. He got a compass tattoo on the back of his left shoulder. It wasn’t large, but it was visible enough to feel like a meaningful addition to his body — a permanent mark that held the same weight and significance as the necklace he had given Wonyoung. 

When Wonyoung saw it for the first time, she smiled, running her hand over the fresh ink. "It’s perfect," she whispered, and Yujin knew it was the right decision. Hidden, just for her, just like they had planned. 

***

One day at work, Yujin received an email about an important meeting. His company had secured a major project: they would be responsible for handling the marketing of Fungmu Tower, the latest luxury hotel project of the Fungmu Group. It was a significant opportunity, and everyone in his department was on edge, knowing how much was riding on this. 

Yujin sat at the long, polished table in the conference room, his notepad open in front of him as the meeting started. He jotted down key points as his team discussed their approach, waiting for the arrival of the Fungmu executives. The tension in the room grew when the door finally opened, and a group of men in sharp suits walked in. 

At the forefront was Kwak Yujin. 

Yujin felt a strange sense of surrealism as he looked at the man who shared his name. But there couldn’t have been more of a difference between them. Kwak Yujin was taller, imposing, and impeccably dressed, every inch the image of power and wealth. His presence commanded the room the moment he entered, making even the highest executives in Yujin’s company straighten up. 

Kwak Yujin wasted no time. He immediately began talking about the Fungmu Tower project, his deep, authoritative voice filling the room. There was a sharpness to him, an unyielding demand for perfection in every word he spoke. He had a reputation for being ruthless in business, and as Yujin watched him, he understood why. This man was at the top of the food chain, the kind of person others feared and admired in equal measure. 

Yujin couldn’t help but feel fascinated by him. Kwak Yujin seemed like the kind of man who had everything: power, looks, influence, and untouchable wealth, the kind of man who had inherited generational riches but also made his own mark on the world. The thought crossed Yujin’s mind — Is this the type of guy Wonyoung would prefer? 

He glanced down at his notepad, feeling an odd sense of inadequacy. Kwak Yujin was the kind of man Wonyoung had spoken about before, someone who operated on a different level altogether. With his perfect looks, endless wealth, and air of authority, Kwak Yujin embodied everything that Yujin felt he wasn’t. He wondered if Wonyoung would ever compare the two of them in her mind. After all, here was a man who had everything — while Yujin was still working his way up, just trying to make a stable future for both of them and he is sure he will never be this rich.

Yujin kept glancing at Kwak Yujin throughout the meeting, his thoughts racing. Despite his intimidation, he also couldn’t help but feel admiration. This guy had achieved what most people could only dream of. He wondered how it must feel to walk into a room and have everyone hang on your every word, to be at the top, knowing no one could challenge you. 

For the rest of the meeting, Yujin stayed quiet, listening as Kwak Yujin laid out his expectations for the marketing campaign. Everything had to be flawless — there was no room for error. As Yujin took notes, he couldn’t shake the feeling that he was staring at a version of success he’d never truly imagined for himself. 

***

After the meeting, Yujin and his co-workers headed out for lunch, their conversations buzzing with the excitement and tension from earlier. They settled into a trendy café nearby, ordering salads and sandwiches as the group began to decompress. 

As they waited for their food, one of the women from his team, Cha-Young, broke the silence. "Wow, Kwak Yujin, huh? That guy is unreal. I mean, did you see how he just commanded the room? So handsome too." 

"Right?!" another one of his colleagues, Yeo-jin, chimed in eagerly. "And the way he talks, like he's so confident and in control. It’s no wonder he's where he is now. The Kwak family is insanely rich too. Fungmu practically owns Korea."

"He's like the whole package," Cha-Young added, a dreamy look in her eyes. "Handsome, rich, and smart. That’s a rare combo."

"Yeah," Yeo-jin nodded. "And isn’t his wife pregnant now? I remember reading that somewhere." 

"Yes! I heard that too!" Cha-Young said excitedly. "She’s a model and the CEO of Rolarola. Can you imagine? Their baby is going to be the luckiest kid alive. Gorgeous parents, ridiculous wealth from Fungmu... that kid's future is set for life." 

"The baby is going to have it all from the start," Yeo-jin agreed. "Looks, money, status — like, they won't have to worry about anything. The ultimate gold spoon." 

Yujin listened quietly as the women continued to gush, their admiration for Kwak Yujin palpable. He swirled his drink, pretending to listen but lost in his own thoughts. His mind wandered to what they were saying — about wealth, power, and status. About people who seemed to be born with everything laid out for them, like Kwak Yujin and his unborn child. 

Some people really were born lucky. 

He thought about it for a moment — imagine coming into the world, and everything is just handed to you. You don’t have to prove yourself or fight for anything. You’re automatically beautiful, wealthy, and respected just by the virtue of your family. The kind of life where you never had to worry about making rent, finding a job, or proving your worth to your parents and girlfriend. Everything would already be set in place, all paths leading to success without much struggle. 

Yujin glanced down at his phone, catching his reflection in the screen. He was good-looking at least that’s what everyone tells him, and he was earning well now, but even though he lived comfortably, they weren’t rich. And he realized that just because he graduated from a good university didn’t mean that he will automatically get in and get good job offers, he experienced struggle in the interviews and he felt like he was in the bottom trying to make a name for himself in the music world that wasn’t waiting to hand him anything. Especially when the other people had more connections even though they lack the talent. Hearing his co-workers rave about the Kwak family made him wonder how different things would have been if he had been born into that kind of world. One where he didn’t have to prove himself. If he was born rich and connected, maybe Tae-joo wouldn’t cut him out and he will be now a producer.

"Must be nice," Yujin muttered under his breath, a faint smile tugging at his lips. It wasn’t jealousy, not exactly, but there was something about knowing that some people had their whole lives planned out from birth that made him feel... small. 

Would Wonyoung prefer a guy like Kwak Yujin? Someone with wealth, status, and power that he could never reach? 

***

After Wonyoung’s graduation, there was a brief period of relaxation. They both took some time to breathe before the next major hurdle — the bar exam. During this time, Wonyoung worked at Yujin’s mother’s law firm, gaining more experience and practical skills while diligently preparing for the exam. Yujin knew how crucial this moment was for her, so he offered his unwavering support, giving her as much space as she needed to focus and study. 

He would text her motivational messages during the day, and make sure she wasn’t stressed, and quietly cheer her on from the sidelines. The closer the bar exam got, the more intense her focus became, and Yujin admired her tenacity. When the day of the bar exam finally arrived, it was nerve-wracking for both of them, but Wonyoung handled it with her signature confidence. 

A few weeks later, the results came out, and Wonyoung had done it — she was the top passer. The moment the news came, Yujin felt overwhelming pride and happiness for her. Wonyoung’s achievement was even greater than expected, and it was celebrated in a big way. They hugged, Yujin lifting her up, twirling her around, and both of them cried happy tears. All the hard work and sacrifices had paid off. 

Not long after, they moved back to Seoul, settling into their familiar rhythm again. Wonyoung started her legal training at a prestigious top law firm, and she was earning well, proving her worth in the firm just as she always had in school. Yujin admired how seamlessly she transitioned from law school to professional life, and seeing her succeed made him feel like everything was falling into place. 

***

One evening, Yujin and Wonyoung sat at their small dining table, the soft glow of their apartment lights casting a cozy ambiance. They had just prepared a beautiful dinner together — steak, truffle pasta, and a bottle of red wine — something they could now afford since both were earning well. 

As Yujin took a sip of wine and leaned back in his chair, he glanced around the apartment. "You know," he began, "maybe we can actually think about buying this place. We've been saving, and I feel like we could really make this ours." 

Wonyoung looked up from her plate, raising an eyebrow as she chewed thoughtfully. "Buy this apartment?" she asked, a small smile playing on her lips. "Yujin, it's way too expensive to buy anything in Seoul right now." 

Yujin chuckled lightly. "I know, but with both of us working, and if we plan it out, it could be possible, don't you think?" 

Wonyoung set down her fork and gave him a serious look. "If we're going to invest in property, I'd rather it be a house — not an apartment. And definitely not in Seoul. The prices here are insane, and even though we could afford a mortgage, we'd be paying it off forever." She took a deep breath and leaned back. "Plus, it's still cheaper for us to rent right now." 

Yujin sighed, nodding slowly. "You're right," he admitted. "I just thought, you know, with us settling into work and things going well... maybe it's time to own something." 

Wonyoung reached out and touched his hand. "Let's keep this apartment for now. We're both working in Seoul, so it makes sense to stay here. But let's keep saving, okay? Once I finish my legal training and apply for admission to the Korean Bar Association, we can revisit the idea. But definitely not here in Seoul."

Yujin smiled warmly, appreciating how practical she was. "Alright, we'll save up and wait." 

***

Wonyoung had just finished her legal training and officially became a fully licensed lawyer. The moment she received the confirmation from the Korean Bar Association, a sense of pride filled her chest. All those years of hard work, late nights, and dedication had paid off. She was now working at a top corporate law firm, one of the most prestigious in the country. Her colleagues had congratulated her, and even her bosses had taken notice of her skill and tenacity. 

He, on the other hand, couldn’t have been more proud of her. As he watched her put on her office attire every morning, heading off to meetings with high-profile clients, he marveled at how far she had come. They had both grown so much since the beginning of their relationship. 

One evening, they gathered with their friends to celebrate. Liz, who had always dreamed of opening her own law firm in Jeju Island, was excitedly talking about her plans. “I’m gaining the experience I need here in Seoul,” Liz said, sipping her wine, “but once I’ve got enough under my belt, I’ll head back to Jeju and start my own firm even if its small.”

Giselle, working in public relations, was chiming in with her own stories of working with clients and building a name for herself. The group felt like they were all headed in the right direction, and there was a sense of optimism that filled the air. 

As they sat around the table, Yujin couldn’t help but reflect on his own journey. He had sold a few music beats here and there — nothing major, just small wins and some good pocket money — but it wasn’t nearly enough to rely on. Music, as much as he loved it, was an unstable source of income. But he had accepted that reality. 

Yujin was glad he had listened to Wonyoung’s advice. She had always encouraged him to find stability in his career. He had been promoted now after 3 years. The financial security was something he hadn’t valued before, but now, seeing how much it helped them live comfortably, he appreciated it more than ever. 

Sitting there with Wonyoung and their friends, Yujin realized how much they had all grown up. Everyone was in a good place, and he was happy to be a part of it. Sure, the road ahead would still have its challenges, but for now, things were going well. He glanced at Wonyoung, who was laughing with Liz about an old inside joke. Her success wasn’t just hers — it was theirs, and he was determined to support her in any way he could, just as she had done for him. 

***

Wonyoung and her parents had worked hard, and their efforts finally paid off. They opened a small restaurant in their neighborhood, serving authentic Korean food. It wasn’t flashy, but it was going well, with locals quickly becoming regular customers. Her parents were happy with the stability it brought, allowing them to worry less about money. 

One evening, as Wonyoung and Yujin visited the restaurant, Wonyoung took a deep breath and smiled, watching her parents work happily in the bustling space. For the first time in a long while, she felt a weight lift off her shoulders. Knowing that her parents were secure with a steady income, she could finally breathe. The pressure she had always felt to support them eased, and now, she could start focusing on herself and her own future with Yujin. 

As they walked home together that night, Wonyoung leaned into Yujin, feeling lighter and more at peace. “Now that my parents are settled, I feel like I can finally start thinking about us and what’s next,” she said softly. 

With Wonyoung’s family now financially stable, he knew the next chapter of their lives was waiting. He had been quietly saving money for a while, hoping that one day soon, he could surprise Wonyoung with a proposal. Yujin glanced at her as she smiled up at him, and his heart swelled. Everything was going well — Wonyoung’s career was flourishing, her parents were happy, and he was building something special for their future. Someday soon, when the time was right, he would ask her to marry him. 

***

Wonyoung sat in her office, her heart racing after the conversation with her boss. She had just been offered a potential life-changing opportunity — a position as a legal consultant in the USA, specializing in South Korean law and cross-border transactions. The offer wasn’t final yet, but she was being seriously considered, despite her relatively short tenure at the law firm. It was an incredible honor, but the decision weighed heavily on her. 

The salary was more than double what she earned in Korea, a sum that was almost too good to pass up. But it came with a caveat: it was a one-year contract. The firm wanted to see if she was the right fit before offering anything more permanent. It wasn’t a law practice in the USA but a consultant role, advising clients on matters involving South Korean law. Still, the money and experience would be invaluable. 

Wonyoung thanked her boss with a smile, assuring her that she would think about the offer. But as soon as she sat back down at her desk, her mind began to race. It was an exciting prospect, but it also meant leaving Korea, Yujin, and everything she had built here — at least for a year. 

She picked up her phone and called the one person whose opinion she valued above all — Yujin’s mother, Mrs. An. Though Wonyoung no longer worked at her law firm, Mrs. An remained her mentor, the woman who had helped her every step of the way. Mrs. An had given her opportunities, guidance, and support, and Wonyoung still found herself relying on her advice. 

“Wonyoung! How are you?” Mrs. An greeted warmly when she picked up. 

“Hi, Mrs. An. I hope you’re doing well. I... wanted to ask for some advice,” Wonyoung began, her voice slightly hesitant. 

“Of course, my dear. What’s on your mind?” 

Wonyoung took a breath before explaining the offer she’d received. “I’ve been offered a one-year contract to work in the firm’s USA branch, as a legal consultant for Korean law. It’s a great opportunity, but I don’t know if I want to take it.” 

Mrs. An was quiet for a moment before asking, “Why don’t you want to take it?” 

Wonyoung hesitated. She’d been turning it over in her mind, but it was difficult to admit out loud. Finally, she said, “I don’t want to leave Yujin.” 

Mrs. An let out a soft sigh, but there was a hint of understanding in her voice. “Is that really the reason? Or are you worried about something else?” 

“It’s mostly because of him,” Wonyoung admitted. “A year is a long time to be away, and I don’t want our relationship to suffer. But it’s also because I won’t be able to practice law there.” 

Mrs. An was quiet for a beat before she spoke with gentle firmness. “Wonyoung, a year may seem like a long time, but it’s just a moment in your career. You shouldn’t be held back by anyone, not even my son. You’ve worked so hard to get to where you are. Yujin will understand, and if he loves you as much as I know he does, he’ll support you through this.” 

Wonyoung appreciated Mrs. An’s straightforwardness, though it still weighed on her heart. “But... what if it changes things between us?” 

Mrs. An gave a soft chuckle. “If your relationship can’t withstand a year apart, then maybe it wasn’t meant to last. But, from what I see, you two are strong enough. You’ll come back better for it, with more experience and more opportunities. You’ve always made the best decisions for yourself, Wonyoung, and this is your chance to grow. You don’t want to look back and regret not taking this step. But, ultimately, it’s your decision.” 

“Thank you,” she said softly. “I’ll think about it.” 

Mrs. An’s voice softened. “You’re always welcome to come back and work with me when you’re fed up with Seoul. But for now, just remember, this is your life and your career. Don’t let anyone hold you back.” 

They ended the call with Wonyoung feeling both reassured and torn. Mrs. An’s advice had always been invaluable, and it wasn’t the first time she’d nudged Wonyoung to prioritize her career and ambitions. Now, it was up to her to decide what to do next. 

***

That evening, Wonyoung and Yujin sat across from each other at their small dining table, Wonyoung had been thinking all day about the offer from her law firm, and now, with Yujin across from her, it was time to tell him. 

As they ate, Wonyoung cleared her throat softly. “I have something to tell you,” she began. Yujin looked up from his plate, his brows raising slightly in curiosity. 

“I got an offer at work today,” Wonyoung continued. “They want me to consider working in the USA for a year… as a legal consultant.” 

Yujin froze, his fork hovering mid-air as he processed her words. The smile that had been on his face moments ago faded. “Oh…” he said softly, his voice tinged with sadness. He lowered his fork and looked down, trying to hide the emotions building inside him. “Are you… going to take it?” 

Wonyoung saw the sadness in his eyes and the way he struggled to keep his composure. She knew Yujin didn’t want to be apart from her, not for that long. And the truth was, she already had her answer. The company might not need an answer for months, but Wonyoung had already made up her mind. 

As Yujin sat there, looking down at his plate, she felt the weight of their relationship in the air. She didn’t need to be away. She didn’t need more money. They were stable now, both working good jobs in Seoul. What more could she ask for? She had no desire to leave Yujin, to be apart from him. They were building a life together here. Her parents are finally stable now. Her heart was already settled — there was no reason to go. 

Yujin, on the other hand, felt a heaviness inside his chest. The thought of being apart from Wonyoung for a year was like a punch to his gut. He imagined all the scenarios — the empty bed, the silent apartment, the long-distance phone calls. He blinked rapidly, his eyes turning glassy as he fought back the tears threatening to spill over. But he knew he should be supportive. This was her career, her big opportunity. He would never want to hold her back. 

He finally looked up at her, his voice wavering slightly. “If you… if you want to take it, I’ll support you. I don’t want to be away from you, but I’ll support you, Wonyoung.” 

Wonyoung’s heart ached seeing him like this, knowing he was trying to put on a brave face for her. She reached across the table and took his hand in hers, squeezing it gently. “Hey,” she said softly, her voice full of warmth. “Don’t be sad.” 

Yujin’s gaze met hers, his eyes still teary, unsure of what she was going to say next. 

“I’m not going,” Wonyoung said with a soft smile. “I won’t accept the offer.”  

“Are you… are you sure?”

“I’m not going,” she repeated, shaking her head. “I don’t need to be away from you, Yujin. We’re stable here. We’re building something together. I don’t want to leave. I want to stay with you.” 

Relief washed over Yujin’s face, and he let out a shaky breath. His eyes softened, and he squeezed her hand back. “You really mean it?” 

Wonyoung nodded, her smile growing. “I’m not going anywhere.” 

Later that night, after their heartfelt conversation, Wonyoung found herself lying beside Yujin in their bed. His arms were wrapped around her, his breathing slow and peaceful as he drifted off to sleep. The soft hum of the city outside was the only sound, but Wonyoung's mind was far from still. 

Her thoughts circled back to the offer from her law firm. She couldn’t deny it — there was a part of her that kept thinking about the money she was passing up. A salary twice what she made in Korea, an impressive opportunity that could boost her career to new heights. If she didn’t have Yujin, she would have accepted it in a heartbeat. It was an obvious choice, the kind of offer that could change a life. 

But here she was, in this apartment they had made into a home. A small, simple place where they shared meals, dreams, and love. And Yujin — how could she leave him? It wasn’t just about the money anymore, or the ambition that used to drive her so fiercely. 

There was no reason to be that ambitious right now. Wonyoung could feel it deep in her heart — what mattered most to her was right here beside her. She had worked so hard to get to this point, and now that her parents were stable and her career was on the right track, she could finally breathe. She didn’t need to chase every big opportunity that came her way. She had a life in Seoul, a life with Yujin, and that was enough. 

But maybe someday, she and Yujin could go abroad together. They could build their future beyond Seoul, on their own terms. She could always come back to the idea of going overseas — if it was meant to be, it would happen. But for now, there was no rush. They had time. There was no need for her to go alone, not when they were building something so beautiful together. 

Chapter Text

Yool-ho, sat across from his older brother, Jun-woo in their newly opened restaurant, who was enjoying a hearty meal of freshly prepared Korean dishes. 

Jun-woo leaned back in his chair, patting his stomach. "Ah, Yool-ho, you’ve done well here. This food is fantastic, and the place looks great. You're living well now, huh?" 

Yool-ho smiled modestly, wiping his hands on a napkin. "I can’t take all the credit, hyung. It’s mostly thanks to Wonyoung. She’s smart, worked hard, and now she’s brought us to this place where we’re finally stable." 

Jun-woo nodded approvingly, looking around the restaurant. "You’ve raised her well. Now you and Yunmi can rest easy, with this business taking care of you." 

"Exactly," Yool-ho agreed, his tone filled with pride. "Finally, Wonyoung can focus on herself. She doesn’t have to worry about us anymore. She’s been working so hard to take care of this family for years, and now it’s our turn to let her live her own life." 

Jun-woo chuckled, “Well, I heard she has a boyfriend now too, right? Maybe she’ll be thinking about starting her own family soon.” 

Yool-ho's face softened as he thought of Yujin. "Yes, that Yujin boy. They’re doing well together. I think they’re saving for their future now, just like we are secure with this restaurant. Wonyoung deserves the world after everything she’s done for us." 

Jun-woo nodded thoughtfully, finishing the last of his meal. "It’s good to hear you’re all doing well. You know, Yool-ho, it’s nice to see you finally at ease. All thanks to your clever daughter." 

Yool-ho smiled with a sense of relief, as the once heavy burden of financial strain was now lightened, and his daughter could pursue her dreams freely without the weight of supporting her family holding her back. 

Jun-woo sat back in his chair, savoring the last bite of his meal as he looked around the newly opened restaurant. "This is really great, Yool-ho. Your daughter, Wonyoung, she's really smart. You're lucky to have her," he complimented, wiping his mouth with a napkin. 

Yool-ho beamed with pride. "It’s all thanks to Wonyoung," he said. "She’s the smart one in the family, really. She helped us set this all up. Now that the restaurant is running smoothly, she can finally focus on herself, her career, and even her future with her boyfriend. We're finally stable." 

Jun-woo nodded thoughtfully, stirring his cup of tea. "Wonyoung is sharp. You're lucky to have a daughter like her. She’s really holding everything together, huh?" 

Yool-ho sighed with a mixture of pride and humility. "Yeah, I owe a lot to her. She’s already doing so much for us. How about you, hyung? How are things on your end?" 

Jun-woo's eyes sparkled with enthusiasm. "Ah, I’ve been getting into investments lately," he said, leaning in a bit closer. "I’ve got this one opportunity now that’s really promising — double the returns, guaranteed. You’d be surprised at how quickly things can grow. It’s practically a sure thing." 

"Double the returns?" Yool-ho repeated, clearly impressed. "That’s amazing." 

"It is," Jun-woo nodded eagerly. "And you can join in if you want. You’ve got this restaurant, but this would let you help Wonyoung even more. She’s already done so much — this way, you wouldn’t need to depend on her as much, and you could even give her a head start for her future." 

Yool-ho hesitated, rubbing his chin. "I’m not sure. We just put all our savings into this restaurant. Everything went into making this place run, and we haven’t earned back much yet. It’s still too early." 

Jun-woo waved his hand dismissively. "What about savings? Don’t you have anything tucked away? Even a small investment could go a long way." 

Yool-ho shook his head, looking a bit uncomfortable. "Not really. Like I said, Wonyoung handles most of the finances, and we used our recent savings to set up this restaurant. We’re trying to be cautious until we start seeing some steady profits." 

Jun-woo leaned back, sensing his brother’s hesitation. "I get it. Just keep it in mind. It’s a good opportunity, and it might help you all out in the long run. You wouldn’t have to rely so much on Wonyoung." 

Yool-ho nodded, but his thoughts remained uncertain. He wanted to do more for Wonyoung, to ease the burden she had carried for so long. The thought of doubling his money was tempting, but the risk hung heavy in his mind. 

As they continued talking, Yool-ho shifted the conversation. "So, how’s your wife and kids doing, hyung?" he asked, trying to bring up something lighter. 

Jun-woo's expression darkened, and he looked away for a moment. "I’m going through a divorce right now," he muttered. "But I don’t want to get into it." 

Yool-ho’s eyes widened in surprise. "Divorce? I’m really sorry to hear that, hyung. I didn’t know." 

Jun-woo sighed, shaking his head. "Yeah, it’s been tough, but it’s for the best. I don’t want to drag it out." 

Yool-ho felt a pang of sympathy for his older brother. "I understand, and I won’t push you to talk about it. But... I hope you can still keep your family together somehow." 

Jun-woo gave a half-hearted smile, his tone bitter. "That’s what I’m trying to do. It’s for the kids, really. I want to make sure they have a future, even with the divorce. That’s why I’m doing all this... the investments, the money. I need to make sure they’re taken care of." 

Yool-ho nodded, feeling the weight of Jun-woo’s words. He was about to respond when Jun-woo added, "You know, you could always get a loan from the bank if you want to join in on the investment." 

Yool-ho furrowed his brow, hesitating. "I don’t think that’s a good idea, hyung. If I ever decide on something like that, I’d need to talk to Wonyoung first. She’s the smart one, and she’s a lawyer now. I wouldn’t want to make any big decisions without her knowing." 

Jun-woo let out a frustrated breath, shaking his head. "Wonyoung, Wonyoung, Wonyoung. Why are you relying so much on her, huh? You’re the man of the family, Yool-ho. You need to step up. Why are you letting your daughter carry all the weight?" 

Yool-ho’s face fell, and he lowered his gaze, feeling a pang of guilt at his brother’s words. "I’m not trying to rely on her," he said quietly. "It’s just that she’s so much smarter with these things." 

Jun-woo leaned forward, his voice more insistent. "This is your chance to prove that you can take care of your family too. You don’t need to lean on Wonyoung for everything. You can help her out for once. This investment is a real opportunity to earn big, and it’s safe. I’m already investing, and I had huge returns just last month." 

He pulled out his phone and opened his banking app, flashing the screen at Yool-ho. The numbers on the account were impressive, and Yool-ho stared at the balance in awe. 

"See?" Jun-woo said with pride. "I’m not telling you this because I’m trying to scam you or anything. You’re my younger brother. I wouldn’t push you into something if I didn’t think it was legit. I know you lost your pride after that scam years ago, back when Wonyoung was little, but this is different." 

Yool-ho’s expression wavered as he stared at the large sum of money on Jun-woo’s phone. The memories of that old scam flashed through his mind, but so did Jun-woo’s words about stepping up for the family, for Wonyoung. He felt torn, unsure of what to do. His mind began to wander, and memories of the past started to flood in. He recalled his failed business ventures from years ago. Back when Wonyoung was just a little girl, his business that ended up collapsing, leaving his family in debt. They had lost nearly everything. 

Wonyoung, who should have been focused on her studies and enjoying her childhood, had been forced to grow up too quickly. She had become the breadwinner for the family at a young age, working hard and studying even harder to support them and to study with scholarships. His wife, Yunmi, who had been a full-time housewife, had no choice but to take on a job to help make ends meet. Since then, Yool-ho had never been able to find a stable career again. He had taken on trivial jobs — delivery work, odd handyman gigs — just to scrape by and feed his family. His pride had been shattered, and every day, he felt the weight of his failure. 

He swallowed hard as the guilt gnawed at him. He knew how much he had burdened Wonyoung and Yunmi, but maybe... maybe this was his chance to make things right. To finally lift some of the weight off their shoulders and contribute more than just barely enough. 

Taking a deep breath, Yool-ho turned to his brother, his voice quiet. "How much do you think I should start with?" 

Jun-woo smiled, sensing that his younger brother was seriously considering the offer. "You can start small, Yool-ho. Maybe 5 million won, just to test the waters. Once you see how well it does, you can pour in more money if you want." 

Yool-ho’s heart raced. 5 million won wasn’t a small amount for him. It was risky, but Jun-woo had just shown him the huge returns he had made. Maybe this was the opportunity he had been waiting for. 

"And... when will I start seeing returns?" 

Jun-woo leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms confidently. "Next month, guaranteed. You’ll get more than what you put in, and from there, it’ll just keep growing. Trust me, this is a safe bet." 

Yool-ho hesitated for a moment, thinking of Wonyoung and Yunmi, of everything they had gone through. But then, he pushed the doubt aside. He had to try. He couldn’t keep depending on his daughter forever. This was his chance to finally be the man of the house again. 

Without saying another word, Yool-ho took out his phone, logged into his banking app, and transferred the 3 million won to Jun-woo’s account. His hands shook slightly as he pressed the final button to confirm the deposit, but once it was done, he felt a strange mix of relief and anxiety wash over him. 

“This is all I have right now.”

Jun-woo smiled widely. "You won’t regret this, Yool-ho. You’re making the right decision. I’ll keep you updated on everything." 

Yool-ho nodded, trying to ignore the nagging feeling in the pit of his stomach. He had taken the leap — now all he could do was wait.

***

Yujin and Wonyoung stood in the small yet cozy living room of their one-bedroom apartment, their faces beaming with pride. The papers were finally signed, and the apartment was officially under both of their names. It was their home, their place in the busy heart of Seoul, and even though it was modest, it had become a symbol of everything they had built together over the past three years. 

The lease-to-own agreement was for ten years — a long commitment — but it was manageable to give them more financial breathing room to pay off the apartment slowly. They had worked hard to reach this point, with Wonyoung advancing in her legal career and Yujin working diligently, saving up bit by bit. They knew that someday they would buy a house, something bigger, something permanent. But for now, this apartment was enough. It was their safe haven, the place they had grown into together, near both their work and they couldn’t imagine leaving it just yet. 

As the night deepened, they lay side by side in bed, the soft glow of the city lights filtering through the window, casting a warm hue over the room. The hum of Seoul's nightlife outside was a comforting reminder of the world they were part of, but in here, in their apartment, everything was quiet, peaceful. 

Yujin turned his head slightly, gazing at Wonyoung, who had her eyes closed, a faint smile tugging at her lips. He reached out, lacing his fingers with hers, the weight of the day’s events settling in. 

“We did it,” Yujin whispered, squeezing her hand gently. “Our first property.”

“Yeah... it feels like a real step forward,” she said. “We’re closer to everything we’ve been working toward.” 

Yujin nodded, his heart swelling with emotion. It wasn’t just about the apartment. It was about the future they were building, the sacrifices they had made, and the dreams they were slowly making a reality. He knew they still had a long way to go, but tonight, lying here together, it felt like they were on the right path. 

***

Yool-ho had never felt this kind of excitement in a long time. After years of struggling financially, things finally seemed to be turning in his favor. His brother Jun-woo's investment had paid off, not once, but twice. Every time Yool-ho deposited money, it returned with interest, just like his brother had promised. When he saw the money in his bank account again, he couldn't help but feel a surge of hope. Maybe this was it — his chance to help his family and prove to himself that he could finally provide for them without relying on Wonyoung. 

A month passed, and the returns kept coming, with interest slightly higher each time. Yool-ho felt like he was on top of the world, no longer second-guessing the investment. Everything was going smoothly, just as Jun-woo had said. One afternoon, Jun-woo stopped by the restaurant again, a satisfied grin on his face as he sat down for a meal. 

"You know, you're doing great, Yool-ho," Jun-woo said between bites. "But there's something you need to understand. If you want bigger returns, you need to put in more money. Like... 300-500 million won. That’s when the real rewards come." 

Yool-ho nearly choked on his tea. "500 million won? Hyung, that’s a lot of money. I can’t do that. I don’t have that kind of money, and I’m sure Wonyoung doesn’t have that kind of money either, she just started working and she’s the one handling most of our finances." 

Jun-woo leaned in closer, his voice dropping. "You don’t need to ask Wonyoung. You can get a loan from the bank. Think about it — you’ll be able to pay the bank right away because the returns will double by next month. It's a surefire deal. You saw for yourself how the money is coming in, didn’t you?" 

"I... I don't know if the bank will loan me that much money," Yool-ho replied, uncertainty creeping into his voice. 

Jun-woo waved his hand dismissively. "It’s fine. You have assets. You’ve got the house, the restaurant... At least your name is on them, right?" 

"Well, yes, but they're also in my wife and Wonyoung’s name. We all share ownership," Yool-ho said cautiously. 

"That's even better. The bank will see that as security. Don’t worry about the technicalities. I can help you sort out the paperwork," Jun-woo said smoothly. "I’ve done this before, and trust me, the banks are willing to lend if they see collateral. It's no big deal. We can make it work." 

Despite the doubts swirling in his mind, Yool-ho felt a familiar tug — the urge to make things better for his family. He thought about Wonyoung, who had worked so hard for them, and his wife Yunmi, who had supported him through years of hardship. This could be his chance to take some of the burden off their shoulders. Just one more step, and they could be in a better financial position than ever, he could give everything to Wonyoung for her future with Yujin, maybe he could buy them a house or pay for their wedding. 

So, with Jun-woo’s words ringing in his ears, Yool-ho found himself at the bank a few days later. He explained the situation to the loan officer, nervously handing over the paperwork. The officer asked about his assets, and when Yool-ho mentioned the house and restaurant, the officer seemed more open to the idea. However, the loan amount was large, and the process would take time. 

As Yool-ho left the bank, a mixture of excitement and anxiety filled him. He knew this was a huge risk, but Jun-woo had been right so far. This was an opportunity he couldn’t afford to pass up. Or so he believed. 

***

Yujin finished his shift at work and made his way to the mall, his mind set on buying a dessert that he knew Wonyoung loved. He stopped at a small bakery and picked up her favorite pastries, smiling at the thought of seeing her happy face later. On his way out, something caught his eye — bright lights reflected off shiny jewelry in the window of a nearby store. He paused, curiosity pulling him closer. 

He found himself standing in front of the jewelry store, gazing at the engagement rings. He stood at the counter, looking down at the rows of engagement rings, feeling the weight of this decision settle over him. 

The jeweler approached with a smile. "Can I help you find something special today?" 

Yujin nodded, glancing at the price tags. Even the simplest ones were more expensive than he'd imagined. "I'm looking for an engagement ring," he said softly, his eyes focused on one particular design. It was elegant but simple, with a small diamond that sparkled under the lights. 

He could already picture it on Wonyoung’s finger, the way she would smile when he finally asked her to be with him forever. His heart raced at the thought, but reality quickly sank in — he needed more time to save. The ring, though perfect, was more than he could afford right now. 

"I’ll need to save up a little more," Yujin admitted, half to the jeweler and half to himself. "But this is the one." 

The jeweler smiled understandingly. "Take your time. This kind of decision is worth it." 

As Yujin left the store, he felt a renewed sense of purpose. He was already working extra hours, carefully setting aside money every chance he got so they can pay the apartment faster. It wasn't easy, but thinking about their future together, the home they'd share, and the life they'd build, made every effort worth it. 

Tonight, as he lay next to Wonyoung in their apartment, with the dim light from the window casting shadows on the walls, he thought about their future. They were building something together — saving for their apartment, slowly paying it off, and now, Yujin was also working toward the moment when he could finally propose, imagining the day he’d finally slip the ring onto her finger. For now, he would continue saving, one step closer to their future together. 

***

In the dimly lit kitchen of their kitchen, Yool-ho sat hunched over the small table, staring at the ledger. His heart pounded as he scribbled numbers, trying to make sense of it all. The amount was staggering: 50 million won. He had put his trust — and his family’s savings — into his brother’s promise, and now Jun-woo had vanished. It had been a month since Yool-ho’s last call with him, and each time Jun-woo said the same thing. 

“It’s delayed, but it’s coming.” 

But no money had come. 

Yool-ho wiped a bead of sweat from his forehead, his hands trembling slightly. He had even given more money on Jun-woo’s insistence, hoping for a quicker return, but now the silence was deafening. His brother had disappeared, not answering calls or messages. 

Yool-ho’s chest tightened, the weight of his decisions pressing down on him. He glanced at the clock. It was late, and his wife, Yun-mi, was asleep upstairs. She didn’t know the extent of what he had done. She didn’t know about the loan or that their savings had been drained. 

In desperation, Yool-ho began to skim the restaurant’s profits, trying to keep up with the payments he owed the bank. He prayed that business would pick up soon, that the restaurant would become the success he and his family dreamed of. But reality was harsher than that. The restaurant was still new, unstable, and the flow of customers unpredictable. 

He took a shaky breath and glanced at the marketing brochure he had been staring at for hours. Earlier, he had swallowed his pride and called Yujin, asking for help. Yujin had gladly agreed to lend his marketing expertise to attract more customers, but Yool-ho knew deep down that this alone wouldn’t be enough. 

The first month passed in a blur of stress and sleepless nights. Yujin’s efforts did bring a slight increase in foot traffic, and for a moment, Yool-ho felt a flicker of hope. But it was only a temporary band-aid. Even with the extra customers, it was barely enough to cover a month’s payments. The looming debt was still suffocating him, and with Jun-woo gone, there was no easy way out. 

Yool-ho pressed his palms to his face, suppressing a groan. He couldn’t keep up with the payments like this. His mind raced with anxiety. If he didn’t pay the bank on time, they could come after the restaurant, they could come to his wife and Wonyoung. They could take everything. 

The fear gnawed at him. He thought about Wonyoung — his smart, capable daughter who had already sacrificed so much for the family when she was younger. She didn’t deserve this. She didn’t need this burden again. But what was he going to do? 

The door to the kitchen creaked open, and Yool-ho looked up to see Yun-mi standing in the doorway, her eyes heavy with tiredness.

"Yool-ho? What are you doing up so late?" she asked, rubbing her eyes. 

He quickly closed the ledger, forcing a smile. "Nothing, just... going over some business stuff." 

"You're always so stressed lately," Yun-mi said, stepping closer. "Is everything okay with the restaurant?" 

Yool-ho hesitated for a moment, feeling the weight of the lie. He wanted to tell her everything, to confess the hole he had dug for them. But the words stuck in his throat. He couldn’t bear to break her heart. 

"Everything’s fine," he said quietly. "We’re just still finding our footing." 

She smiled softly and placed a hand on his shoulder. "It’ll be okay. We are doing our best." 

He nodded, his stomach twisting with guilt. As she walked back to bed, he sat there, feeling the crushing weight of his secret. He didn’t know how much longer he could keep this up. He didn’t know how much time he had left before everything came crashing down. 

But for now, he had to keep going. He had no other choice. 

***

The weight of his decisions was crushing Yool-ho, heavier than ever. He sat slumped at the small dining table in their home, an empty bottle of soju beside him, the remnants of his fifth drink for the night. His vision was blurred, and his mind raced in circles as he thought about his brother’s promises, the money he had borrowed, the loans with steep interest, and the pit he had been digging for himself. 

It had all started so innocently, just borrowing small loans from friends to cover the restaurant’s bills and the loan from the bank. He convinced himself it was only temporary — a little bit of time, just until Jun-woo delivered on his promise. But as the weeks passed, his brother’s excuses grew weaker and his hope dimmed. With no more friends left to borrow from, Yool-ho turned to the only other option he had left: high-interest loans. 

At first, it felt like a lifeline. The money helped him cover the payments to the bank, buying him more time. But the interest on these loans was steep, and soon, the debt spiraled out of control. The bank was still waiting for its monthly payments, and the high-interest loans had become an even bigger monster than the one he had been trying to avoid. 

As the realization hit him — his brother might have scammed him — Yool-ho turned to drinking. Every night, he would sit in silence, drowning his guilt and shame in alcohol. He hated himself for falling into the same trap he had when Wonyoung was a child. He thought he had learned from his past, but here he was again, letting his family down. Letting Wonyoung down. 

His thoughts were interrupted by the soft creak of the bedroom door. Yunmi stepped out, her face creased with concern as she watched him from the doorway. 

"Yool-ho, you’ve been drinking every night," she said gently. "Is something wrong? You haven’t been yourself lately." 

Yool-ho swallowed hard, his throat dry. Her words cut through him, and the guilt clawed at his insides. He looked up at her, the room spinning slightly from the alcohol. 

"I’m fine," he muttered, though even he didn’t believe it. "Just... stressed about the restaurant." 

Yunmi frowned and walked over to him, placing a hand on his shoulder. "You don’t need to carry this alone, you know? We’re a team. Wonyoung trusts us to make this restaurant work. We can’t let her down." 

The mention of his daughter felt like a knife to his chest. Wonyoung. The daughter who had worked tirelessly to support their family when they had nothing, who had given up her childhood because of his mistakes. Now, he was on the verge of ruining everything she had helped build. 

He clenched his fists, anger boiling inside him. But it wasn’t directed at anyone but himself. How had he let this happen again? How had he fallen into this trap? 

The next morning, the reality of the situation hit even harder. 

Yool-ho was sitting in the restaurant, nursing a pounding headache from the previous night’s drinking, when Yunmi came rushing in, her face pale with worry. She had just spoken with their suppliers, and the news hit her like a ton of bricks. 

“They... they said it’s been two months since we paid them,” Yunmi stammered, her voice shaking. “Two months! How could this happen? I didn’t even know we were behind.” 

Yool-ho felt his stomach drop, his heart racing in panic. He had been skimming the profits, diverting money to cover the loans, and now it was catching up to him. He had thought he could handle it, that the restaurant would eventually bring in enough money to cover everything. But he had been wrong. 

Yunmi stared at him, waiting for an explanation, her eyes wide with disbelief. “Yool-ho, what’s going on? Where’s the money? We need to pay them — this can’t be happening, they’re just mistaken, right?.” 

Yool-ho opened his mouth to speak, but no words came out. The guilt, the shame—it was too much. He couldn’t keep this up anymore. 

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, he broke down. Tears spilled down his cheeks, and his body trembled as he confessed everything — the loans, the money he had borrowed, his brother’s empty promises, the skimming from the restaurant profits. Everything. 

***

Wonyoung was sitting at the dining table, going over some case notes while Yujin was lounging on the couch, strumming his guitar softly. Just then, Wonyoung’s phone rang, pulling her attention away from her work. Seeing her mother’s name flash on the screen, she quickly answered. 

“Hi, Mom,” she greeted, smiling at the thought of home. 

“Wonyoung-ah, can you come home this weekend?” 

Wonyoung furrowed her brows. “Is everything okay?” 

“It’s important,” her mother replied, sidestepping the question. “We need to talk in person.” 

Wonyoung’s worry deepened. “What is it? Just tell me now.” 

“We’ll talk when you come. Just come, okay?  It's just an update about the restaurant.” her mother insisted. 

After a moment of hesitation, Wonyoung agreed. “Alright, I’ll be there this weekend.” 

When she hung up, Wonyoung turned to Yujin, who had been watching her with curious eyes. “That sounded serious,” she said with a hint of concern in her voice. “My mom wants me to come home this weekend. She didn’t say why.” 

Yujin set his guitar down and got up, walking over to her. “I’ll come with you.”  

“What, you can’t spend a weekend without me?” 

Yujin chuckled, leaning down to kiss the top of her head. “Wherever you go, I’ll go,” he said. “And besides, I miss my parents too. It’ll be nice to visit.” 

Wonyoung’s smile softened at his words, warmth blooming in her chest. She leaned into him as he stood behind her, his arms resting around her shoulders. 

“And we can tell them about the apartment,” Yujin added, his excitement breaking through. “That we’ve officially started paying for it to be our own someday.” 

Wonyoung’s eyes lit up, and she glanced up at him. “One step closer to our future together,” she echoed with a soft smile, the seriousness of her mother’s call temporarily pushed aside.

***

At a lunch table, Wonyoung and Yujin sat across from their parents at her family’s restaurant. Woo-bin, was taking a bite of one of the dishes and smiled in satisfaction.

“This is really good,” he said, glancing over at Yool-ho and Yunmi, who were busy serving dishes and cooking in the kitchen. “You two really know how to run a restaurant now.”

Ji-young smiled and nodded in agreement. “It’s not easy to manage all of this, especially while it’s still new. You both must be proud.”

Wonyoung smiled softly, glancing over at her parents with a sense of pride, but also concern. “They’ve worked really hard,” she said, her voice filled with affection. “Now that the restaurant is stable, I’ve been able to focus on my own career, too and our future together,” she said, leaning onto Yujin.

Yujin chimed in, “And now we’ve started paying for our apartment. It’s still a long way to go, but we’re managing, step by step.”

His father grinned and patted Yujin’s back. “You’ve both entered adulthood for real now, huh? Making your own payments, working hard — it’s a big step forward.”

Yujin chuckled. “Yeah, we’re just really saving now properly.”

As the parents shared proud glances, Yool-ho and Yunmi exchanged a brief, uneasy look, their smiles a bit forced. The restaurant, which was supposed to be their stable ground, was now burdened with the heavy weight of debt that no one at the table knew about yet. Yool-ho’s hands fumbled slightly as he set down the last dish, and Yunmi’s gaze shifted between the cheerful conversation and the lingering thoughts of what they were hiding.

***

After finishing a delicious dinner together, Yujin stretched his arms and leaned back in his chair, a relaxed smile on his face. “I’ll help clean up and close the restaurant,” he said to Wonyoung’s parents, standing up and looking toward the kitchen. “It’s the least I can do.” 

Wonyoung shook her head gently, standing up beside him. “No, it’s okay. We’ve got this covered,” she insisted, glancing at him with a playful smile. “Go home with your parents, spend time with them.” 

Yujin looked puzzled, eyebrows raised. “But it’s just walking distance,” he replied, pointing in the general direction of his house. 

Wonyoung chuckled softly, her hand resting lightly on his arm. “I know,” she said. “But I want you to spend time with them. I’ll help here with the dishes.” 

Yujin’s lips tugged into a pout, still not wanting to leave. “But I can stay and help…” he began, but before he could finish, Wonyoung gave him a playful shove. 

“Nope,” she teased, shaking her head. “Go home. I’ve got this.” 

Yujin sighed dramatically but gave in, knowing she wouldn’t let him win. “Fine,” he said, smiling as he turned toward the door. “Call me later, okay?” 

His mother rolled her eyes in amusement, overhearing the exchange. “You’re so clingy, Yujin,” she teased, making the entire group laugh, even Yujin who scratched the back of his neck sheepishly. 

“Can’t help it,” he said with a grin before waving goodbye and stepping out with his parents. 

Once they left, the restaurant became quiet, the soft clinking of dishes and faint hum of the kitchen the only sounds filling the space. Wonyoung grabbed a cloth and started wiping down the tables, helping her parents as they prepared to close up for the night. 

As Wonyoung moved toward the sink to help wash the dishes, her mother, Yunmi, suddenly turned to her, wiping her hands on a towel. Her expression was serious, a slight tension in her voice as she spoke. “Wonyoung,” she began, glancing at Yool-ho, who was unusually quiet. “We need to tell you something.” 

Wonyoung’s hand froze for a second, still holding a dish, as she sensed the weight in her mother’s tone. Her heart skipped a beat, and she set the plate down slowly, turning to face them. “What is it, mom?” 

Yunmi and Yool-ho exchanged a look, their unease clear as they prepared to reveal the burden they had been carrying. 

***

Yujin stepped out of the shower, feeling refreshed as steam lingered in the air. Humming a soft tune, his towel draped around his waist, he moved through his familiar bedroom. It had been a while since he’d been home, and he smiled to himself, missing the comfort of his own bed and their neighborhood. 

When he got home earlier, he took a moment to check on the small stray cat house he had built near their home. It was part of his routine, making sure it was stocked with water and food for the cats that often wandered by. He can only hope his mother doesn’t forget this or the people who pass by who reads the sign he left.

As he was finishing his night time routine, his phone started ringing. He glanced at the screen and saw Wonyoung’s name. A smile spread across his face as he imagined her, probably fresh out of the shower too, tucked into bed. They were always so sweet and clingy with each other, and he couldn’t wait to hear her voice. 

“Hey,” he answered, his tone light and cheerful. But the moment he heard a quiet sniffle on the other end, his smile faded instantly. “Honey, what’s wrong?” he asked, concern flooding his voice. “Where are you?” 

Through quiet sobs, Wonyoung’s shaky voice came through. “I’m... I’m outside your house,” she said, her words broken. “Can I... Can I sleep here tonight?” 

Yujin’s heart clenched at the sound of her crying. Without wasting a second, he rushes, pulling on a pair of shorts and a t-shirt, his mind racing. “I’ll be right there, wait for me,” he said quickly, hurrying downstairs. 

Barefoot, he sprinted to the door and yanked it open, spotting Wonyoung, still on her clothes earlier, standing in front of his house, hugging herself, her shoulders trembling as tears streamed down her face. Yujin’s breath caught for a moment, seeing her like that shattered his heart. 

“Wonyoung...” he breathed as he rushed toward her, pulling her into his arms tightly. “It’s okay, I’m here. What happened?” He could feel her body shaking against his, and he held her even closer, whispering, “Let’s go inside, okay?” 

***

Inside Yujin’s room, Wonyoung lay curled up on his bed, her body trembling with uncontrollable sobs. Yujin sat beside her, his arms wrapped around her protectively, holding her as tightly as he could. He had never seen her this broken, and each tear that fell from her eyes felt like a stab to his heart. 

Wonyoung’s voice cracked through the sobs, angry and hurt. “I’ve worked my whole life... I’ve sacrificed so much,” she cried, her fists clenching the sheets beneath her. “Why... why is my dad like this? Why are my parents like this?” 

Yujin rubbed her back softly, his hand soothing her as best he could, but the pain in her voice was unbearable. 

“How can they do this to me?” she said, her voice rising, anguish and frustration. “Fifty million... it’s doubled to a hundred. Because my stupid father kept getting more loans — more loans to cover it up instead of coming to me, 50 million would have been more manageable — and now we’re left with this huge problem, Yujin... a huge problem that can cost us the restaurant. We just opened it…” 

She choked on her own words, wiping her tears furiously with the back of her hand. “I was finally at a point in my life where I could focus on myself. I’ve worked so hard... I’ve studied, I’ve saved... and now it’s all falling apart. It’s so unfair!” she cried, her voice shaking with anger. 

Yujin tightened his embrace, pulling her closer, feeling the weight of her words. 

“We were finally okay,” Wonyoung continued, her breath uneven between sobs. “I was finally in a place where I didn’t have to worry about anyone else. Now I have to fix this... again.” She paused, a fresh wave of tears spilling over. “Why do I always have to be the one to fix things? Why is it always me?” 

Her voice broke, and she buried her face into Yujin’s chest, trembling with emotion. “Why can’t we ever recover, Yujin? Why can’t things just be okay for once?” 

Yujin didn’t know what to say. He didn’t have the answers she was looking for, but what he did have was his unwavering presence. He kissed the top of her head gently, resting his chin there as she cried. “I’m here. We’ll figure it out, I promise. You’re not alone in this.” 

“It’s not fair... it’s not fair,” she kept repeating, her voice full of sorrow, as Yujin held her tighter, silently promising that no matter what happened, he would be there to carry the burden with her. Wonyoung sniffled, her face still buried against Yujin’s chest. Her voice, barely above a whisper, was thick with despair. “We just started paying the apartment, Yujin. The monthly payments… they’re expensive. How am I going to find the money now?” 

Her words cut through the room, filled with a sense of helplessness. Yujin’s arms tightened around her, his heart aching at the weight of her worries. He pulled back slightly to look at her tear-streaked face, his thumb gently wiping away the fresh tears that rolled down her cheeks. 

“Wonyoung,” Yujin started softly, his voice tender and reassuring. “I’ll help you. You’re not alone in this. We can ask my parents.”

Wonyoung shook her head weakly, her eyes filled with frustration and guilt. “No, Yujin. Your parents have done so much for us already… I can’t ask them for more. This is my family’s problem, and we need to fix it.” 

“But you’re my family too,” Yujin said. “I don’t care if it’s your family’s problem. You’re mine, Wonyoung. I won’t ever let you face something like this alone. We’re in this together.” 

Wonyoung’s lip trembled at his words, the weight of her burden slightly easing as she felt the sincerity in his voice. She broke down again, her body trembling as fresh tears flowed, soaking the front of Yujin’s shirt. “I don’t know what to do,” she cried, her voice barely audible. “I feel like everything is falling apart.” 

Yujin kissed her forehead, gently rocking her as he held her close. “We’ll figure it out,” he whispered against her hair. “I promise you, Wonyoung, we’ll find a way. I’ll do whatever it takes to make sure we get through this.” 

Wonyoung sobbed harder in his arms, clinging to him tightly as if he were the only thing keeping her grounded in that moment. And Yujin, with all the love and care he had for her, continued to hold her, his fingers softly stroking her back, trying to comfort her in any way he could. 

He didn’t have all the answers, and he knew the road ahead would be difficult. But for Wonyoung, for them, he was willing to face anything. He would do whatever it took to make sure she didn’t have to bear this pain alone. 

But Wonyoung continued to sob, overwhelmed by the crushing weight of the debt, her family’s problems, and the never-ending responsibility she felt placed on her shoulders. 

***

The next morning, Wonyoung sat on the edge of Yujin’s bed, her eyes puffy from the tears she had shed the night before. Her face was pale, exhaustion written across every feature. Yujin had stayed up with her, holding her until she’d fallen asleep, but now in the quiet of the morning, the heaviness of reality had returned. 

Yujiin stared at her who was still sitting in the same spot for more than an hour now, staring blankly at the floor. He walked over, sitting down beside her, his heart aching as he saw how drained she looked. 

“It’ll be okay.” He said gently, though he already knew it doesn’t mean anything at the moment.

Wonyoung didn’t answer at first, just swallowed hard before speaking in a weak voice. “I’ve been thinking... maybe I should take the job in the USA.” 

Yujin froze. “Wonyoung...” His voice cracked slightly, not expecting her to say it so soon. “You don’t have to. We can figure this out here. You don’t need to leave.” 

Wonyoung’s lip quivered, but she didn’t look at him. “But how, Yujin? It’s 140 million won. That’s more than we can handle, especially now... We’ve only just started paying for the apartment.” Her hands trembled as she spoke, her head still low, too tired to even cry. 

Yujin clenched his fists in frustration, not at her, but at the situation. “I’ll work overtime every day. I’ll do whatever it takes. You don’t have to go, Wonyoung. We’ll figure it out.” But Wonyoung just shook her head, her eyes shut tight, as if trying to block out the overwhelming weight of everything. 

“I don’t know if we can, Yujin. It’s... too much,” she said, her voice breaking again. “I’ve worked my whole life, and I thought...” 

Yujin’s chest tightened as he saw how broken she was. He knew how much this had hurt her, how much this was taking from her. But he wasn’t willing to give up so easily. He wrapped his arm around her shoulders, pulling her into a gentle embrace. “We’ll try here first,” he said softly, pressing his forehead against hers. “We’ll make a plan. Together.” 

Wonyoung nodded weakly, though her heart still felt heavy. She wasn’t convinced, but she didn’t have the energy to fight anymore. Yujin grabbed a notebook, pulling out their financials and trying to make sense of the overwhelming numbers. “So... 110 million won left,” he muttered, running through the figures again. “If I work overtime and you keep your job... maybe we can bring it down little by little. It’ll take time, but we’ll get through it. I know we will.” 

But even as they tried to make sense of it, Wonyoung couldn’t hide her weariness. “We’ll spend the rest of our 20s to early 30s paying off my family’s debt,” she muttered bitterly, her voice low and tired. She shook her head, letting out a soft, sarcastic laugh. “What a life.” 

Yujin’s heart broke hearing her words, but he stayed hopeful, keeping his arm around her. “It’s just temporary,” he whispered, trying to comfort her. “Once we get through this, it’ll be better. One step at a time, we’ll make it.” 

Wonyoung didn’t respond, her eyes fixed on the paper in front of them. Her emotions were too raw, too fragile, and she was too drained to offer any more. She simply leaned into Yujin, her head resting against his chest as he held her, comforting her as best as he could. 

Chapter Text

Yujin sat cross-legged in the middle of his bedroom, surrounded by the years of K-pop treasures he had collected. His eyes scanned the shelves one last time — rows of albums, posters, and neatly arranged photo cards, all perfectly preserved like a shrine to his passion. But today, something felt different. Today, he had to say goodbye to them. 

His gaze lingered on his prized possession: the complete aespa collection. Every single album, from Black Mamba to Armageddon, was carefully stacked in order. His Winter and Ningning photocards were framed beside them, the unit photocards staring back at him with their bright smiles. 

Yujin let out a sigh as he picked up the Winter photocard, staring deeply into her eyes as if she could understand. "Winter, we’ve been through a lot together, huh?" he whispered dramatically, holding her up to the light. “Remember when I got you from the live broadcast? It was destiny…” 

Next, he picked up Ningning's card, placing it next to Winter. "And you, Ningning, you completed me. I thought I'd never pull your rare card, but you came through for me." He sighed, his heart heavy with bittersweet nostalgia. “You two… the mingmingz… my pride and joy.” 

He laid the cards down on his bed and slowly stood up, taking one last, deep breath as he gazed at his entire collection. Yujin’s room looked like a mini K-pop museum. Posters of aespa, lightsticks, concert banners — all carefully curated and placed with love. It felt like he was about to part with a piece of himself. 

Pulling out his phone, Yujin knelt down in front of the collection, his voice quiet and solemn as if he were attending a funeral. "Okay, guys," he whispered to the albums, cards, and lightsticks, "this is it… let’s take one last family photo." 

He snapped a picture, positioning the frame perfectly so the albums were lined up just right, with Winter and Ningning’s rare and expensive photocards in the center of the shot. “Beautiful,” he muttered under his breath as he clicked the camera. “Goodbye, my mingmingz.” 

With a heavy heart, Yujin opened his social media app and began typing out the post. His fingers hovered over the screen for a moment before he pressed the final word with a sad, slow tap: For sale. Entire Winter and Ningning collection. Price negotiable. 

He stared at the screen for a long moment before finally hitting Post. 

Yujin let out a deep sigh, his face full of exaggerated emotion as if he'd just done the hardest thing in the world. "It's for a good cause," he muttered to himself, trying to stay strong. "This is for Wonyoung. I’m a responsible adult now. I can do this." 

But just as he stood up, about to leave the room, he hesitated. “Wait…” he mumbled, rushing back to the bed and snatching a unit photocard. He stared at it for a moment longer before whispering, “You guys are coming with me to Seoul.”

Slipping the card into a case, he grinned cheekily. "Just a remembrance." 

***

Yujin carried their bags to the taxi, while Wonyoung moved more slowly, her eyes distant. As they walked out of Wonyoung’s parents’ restaurant, her father, Yool-ho, stood at the door with her mother, Yunmi, both looking worn and regretful. 

“Take care, Wonyoung,” Yunmi said softly, her voice breaking slightly. But Wonyoung just nodded, unable to muster a proper goodbye. The pain and disappointment were too fresh, too raw. She couldn’t even look her parents in the eyes. 

Yujin, sensing the tension, waved politely at her parents, offering them a reassuring smile as he placed the last bag in the trunk. “Take care. We’ll visit again soon,” he said, though he wasn’t sure when that would be, considering everything. 

As they drove away, the silence in the car was thick. Yujin glanced at Wonyoung, who stared blankly out the window, her hands resting limply in her lap. She was still so down, the weekend weighing on her like a heavy cloud that wouldn’t lift. 

When they reached Yujin’s house to say goodbye to his parents before leaving for Seoul, his mother pulled Wonyoung aside. Yujin’s mother had always been a source of guidance for her, almost like a second mother, someone whose opinion she valued greatly. 

“I know you’re struggling right now,” Ji-young said gently, placing a comforting hand on Wonyoung’s shoulder. “But don’t feel like you have to carry all of this alone. You have Yujin, and you have us. We’re here to help in any way we can.” 

Wonyoung’s pride flared at the thought of accepting help, but Ji-young’s words struck a chord. Wonyoung looked up at her, blinking back the tears that threatened to spill again. She nodded slowly, taking Ji-young’s advice to heart, even if she wasn’t ready to accept help just yet. 

Yujin squeezed Wonyoung’s hand as they headed back to Seoul, hoping that, in time, the weight on her shoulders would ease, even just a little. 

***

That night in their apartment. Yujin and Wonyoung sat together on the couch, both exhausted from the emotional weight of the past few days. Yujin, sensing the right moment, pulled out his phone and opened his bank app, showing Wonyoung the savings account he had been quietly growing. 

“Look,” he said softly, sliding the phone toward her. 

Wonyoung’s brows furrowed as she glanced at the screen, her eyes scanning the numbers. There, staring back at her, was 40 million won. She blinked, taken aback. “What... What’s all this?” 

Yujin smiled shyly, rubbing the back of his neck. “It’s my personal savings. I’ve been saving diligently for a while.” 

Wonyoung stared at him, still trying to process. “Why do you have this much saved? What were you saving for?” 

Yujin hesitated for a moment, looking down, his cheeks flushing slightly. “I was... saving for you,” he finally said, his voice soft. “For us. For your engagement ring. And for our wedding... someday.” 

Wonyoung froze, the weight of his words crashing into her like a wave. The realization hit her hard — Yujin had been saving all this time, planning for their future, their life together. But now, all of it, every won of it, was going to be swallowed by the enormous debt her father had left them with. She felt her chest tighten, her throat constricting with the weight of guilt, shame, and heartbreak. 

She broke down. Tears streamed down her face uncontrollably as she covered her mouth with her hand, sobbing deeply. “Oh, Yujin... I’m so sorry,” she choked out between sobs. “This is what we’re giving up because of my father’s mistake... Our future... everything... it’s all slipping away.” 

Yujin immediately wrapped his arms around her, pulling her into his chest, holding her tightly as she cried. He stroked her hair gently, whispering, “It’s okay, Wonyoung. It’s okay... We’ll get through this. I’m here for you, no matter what.” 

Wonyoung’s sobs grew louder, the raw emotion pouring out of her. “I’m 28, Yujin,” she said bitterly through her tears, her voice shaking. “I should be enjoying my life, focusing on my career, thinking about our future together... but instead, I’m stuck cleaning up this mess. This isn’t fair. I worked so hard... and now I will have nothing.” 

She wiped her face with the back of her hand, her voice breaking. “My savings aren’t even close to yours,” she admitted. “Only 10 million won. I spent so much helping the restaurant. And now... I don’t know how we’re going to manage.” 

Yujin hugged her even tighter, refusing to let go. “It’s okay, Wonyoung,” he said firmly, his voice filled with determination. “We can do this. We’ve already come so far, and I won’t let this tear us apart. We’ll make it through, I promise.” 

***

Yujin and Seulwoo sat on a bench in a crowded part of Seoul, Yujin clutching a large box containing his entire Aespa collection. He shifted uncomfortably, scanning the crowd for the buyer, his heart heavy. Seulwoo, as usual, had a mischievous glint in his eyes. 

"You really sure about selling all of this?" Seulwoo asked, nudging Yujin's arm. 

Yujin sighed. "I have to, Hyung. It’s a lot of money... and Wonyoung needs help." 

Seulwoo shook his head, looking at Yujin sympathetically. "Man, poor Wonyoung. Her dad is terrible. You’re stuck with his mess now too." 

Yujin looked down, biting his lip, but before he could respond, Seulwoo leaned in with a teasing smirk. "You know what’s easy money?" 

"What?" 

Seulwoo’s voice dropped to a whisper, leaning into Yujin's ear. "Drugs." 

Yujin’s eyes widened in horror, and he jumped back a little, staring at Seulwoo as if he’d lost his mind. "Hyung! Why are you like that? Our girlfriends are lawyers now! We’ll end up in jail, and they'll be so ashamed of us!" 

Seulwoo burst out laughing at Yujin’s panicked reaction. "Relax, man, I’m joking! I would never do that." He patted Yujin on the back, still laughing. "But look at you — selling your precious Aespa collection for love. That's serious stuff." 

Yujin sighed, his shoulders slumping. "It’s all for Wonyoung. She’s struggling so much... and I’ll do anything to help." He glanced at the box and then back at Seulwoo. "Even if it means saying goodbye to my Mingmingz." 

Just then, a heavyset man lumbered towards them. He was wearing an oversized hoodie, his face a bit greasy, and he looked like he hadn’t left his bedroom in days. Yujin grimaced internally but tried to remain polite as the guy approached. 

"Are you Yujin?" the man asked, slightly out of breath. “I’m Dong-Yeon. The guy who messaged you.”

"Yeah, that’s me," Yujin replied, forcing a smile as he handed over the box. 

The guy sat down on the bench and eagerly started sorting through the photocards, banners, and albums. His eyes widened with excitement as he flipped through each item. Yujin glanced at Seulwoo, who was barely holding back a snicker. 

"You really got everything, huh?" the guy said, nodding approvingly. "Looks good." 

Yujin nodded, feeling a bit proud of his pristine collection. The man then pulled out his phone and opened his banking app, showing Yujin the balance on his account. He was ready to make a transfer right then and there. 

But Yujin hesitated. He didn’t just want to let this go easily. "I’ve got more," Yujin said casually, pulling out some signed photocards and limited edition albums. "These are really rare though... you won’t find them anywhere else." 

The man’s eyes lit up like a kid in a candy store. "I want those too," he said eagerly. 

Yujin decided to test the waters. "But these are signed… they’re really expensive. Probably double the price of what we agreed on." 

Without missing a beat, the man waved his hand dismissively. "That’s fine. I’ve got money." 

Yujin’s eyebrows raised in surprise but kept his composure. "Okay then," he said smoothly. "You’re making a great deal." 

The final amount the guy transferred was way more than Yujin had anticipated. As his phone buzzed with the confirmation, a wave of relief washed over him. At least now they had more to add to the savings for Wonyoung's family debt. He couldn’t help but grin as he pocketed his phone, satisfied with the deal. 

Seulwoo, who had been watching the entire exchange, smirked. "If only you were this good at negotiating when it comes to selling your songs." 

Yujin’s smile faltered, his face scrunching up as he glared at Seulwoo. "Hyung! You’re so mean." 

Seulwoo just burst out laughing, clapping him on the shoulder. "I’m just saying, man. You’ve got talent for this stuff." 

Yujin rolled his eyes but couldn’t help but laugh too. He’d treat Seulwoo to some food later for tagging along. They both waved the buyer off and headed back. 

Later, Yujin transferred the money into the shared savings account he had with Wonyoung. Though it stung to part with the collection, seeing the added funds gave him a sense of purpose. This was for her. For them. And that made it all worth it. 

***

Wonyoung sat at the small desk in their apartment, her eyes tired and unfocused as she glanced at the latest client files. The lamp cast a soft glow over the scattered papers, but her mind wasn’t on her work. Instead, she was thinking about how things had been ever since they started cutting back on their budget. The pressure of her family's debt was suffocating her spirit. 

She sighed deeply, looking over at the clock. Yujin was late again. He’d texted earlier to let her know he was staying for overtime — again. He’d been doing this almost every day now, taking on extra hours at work whenever he could. And when he wasn’t at his marketing job, he was leveling game accounts for rich kids who were paying him to boost their characters. In a weird way, Yujin made it look effortless — he juggled his job, side hustles, and their relationship without showing signs of stress, at least outwardly. 

Wonyoung, on the other hand, was struggling. She’d always been ambitious, and landing the job at the law firm was a big achievement, but being new meant she didn’t have the client base or steady work that some of her colleagues had. Her salary was good, but without clients, the bonuses were scarce, and it was becoming more and more apparent that she couldn’t rely solely on her position to help with the debt. She only relies on her job to earn money, she isn’t talented like Yujin, nor she has hobbies that will generate money.

She glanced at her phone, seeing the deposit notifications from their joint savings account. Yujin had made another transfer, larger than hers. It stung a little, even though she knew it shouldn’t. Yujin had always been good at sideline hustles — he found opportunities where others didn’t. Whether it was buying and selling items like his K-pop collection or selling beats online, Yujin somehow managed to pull in more money than she had expected. 

Wonyoung stared at the numbers on the screen, feeling an unexpected wave of guilt wash over her. She was supposed to be the one leading their financial recovery. It was her family’s debt, after all, she was the one who has a bigger salary and yet it was Yujin who was contributing more. His deposit overshadowed hers, and it made her feel inadequate in a way she couldn’t shake. 

She rubbed her temples, trying to block out the nagging thoughts. It wasn’t like she was slacking — she was working hard, trying to establish herself in the firm, but it wasn’t enough. And with each day that passed, she felt more helpless. The weight of it was wearing her down. 

When the door finally opened, Yujin walked in, looking tired but still managing to flash her a smile. He plopped down next to her, rubbing the back of his neck. 

"Long day?" he asked softly, leaning closer. 

Wonyoung nodded, but she didn’t have the energy to talk about it. Not tonight. She forced a small smile, but it didn’t reach her eyes. 

"Yeah," she whispered, her voice weaker than she intended. "It’s been a lot." 

Yujin took her hand, squeezing it gently. She wanted to tell him how she felt, how useless she sometimes felt compared to his ability to make things work. But she couldn’t find the words. 

"You’re doing great, Wonyoung. We’ll get through this," he said, as if sensing her inner turmoil. His optimism only made the guilt worse. 

Wonyoung nodded, but deep down, she wasn’t sure how much longer she could keep this up. She needed to find a way to contribute more, to pull her weight. But right now, all she could feel was the crushing reality that Yujin was outworking her, for a problem that wasn’t even his to begin with. 

As Yujin squeezed her hand and gave her that reassuring smile, Wonyoung felt a twinge of something she had always felt — guilt. She sat there, watching him, exhausted yet still optimistic, and it gnawed at her. He was the one keeping them afloat right now, and it wasn’t because of his stable job at the digital marketing company, the one she had practically pushed him into getting for security. No, it was because of his side hustles — those little things she’d always brushed off as unimportant, unstable, not real "adult work." Yet here they were, helping with paying their bills, groceries, and utilities, helping them inch closer to climbing out of her family’s debt. 

She shifted uncomfortably in her seat, not entirely sure what to do with this realization. It wasn’t like her to feel...behind. She was the one who always knew the answers, the one who had the vision for their future. She was older, wiser, and had always been the smart one. In her mind, it was natural for her to be the one leading them, the one telling Yujin what he needed to do to make their lives more stable. That’s why she had urged him so relentlessly to get a "real" job. She wanted them to have security, something solid. Yet, it was Yujin’s unconventional methods — his gaming gigs, his music, his weird knack for finding money where others couldn’t — that were making the difference now. 

Wonyoung bit her lip. She wasn’t used to feeling like this, outpaced by Yujin. He had always been the carefree one, the one who needed direction, and she had been happy to provide it. But now, she was the one struggling to keep up. 

Her pride ached at the thought. She’d always prided herself on being capable, being the responsible one. It was her thing. She was the one with the law degree, the one with the steady path to success. Yet now, it felt like Yujin was the one keeping them going while she was floundering. She had her job, sure, but she hadn’t expected it to be this slow, this difficult to get clients. Meanwhile, Yujin was finding ways to make money left and right, slipping through the cracks of the system that she had always believed you had to conform to in order to survive. 

Her mind flickered back to the times she had lectured him, pushed him to give up his flings with music and video games to focus on something "real." And yet, here she was, reliant on those very things to get through the month. 

It wasn’t fair. Why was she feeling this way? She was the one who had everything figured out. She had the plan. Yujin was supposed to follow her lead, not the other way around. And yet, she was starting to realize that maybe she hadn’t given him enough credit all along. Maybe... maybe she hadn’t trusted him enough. 

The thought stung her. Wonyoung clenched her jaw, trying to push away the feeling. She wasn’t used to being in this position — feeling inadequate, like she wasn’t doing enough. She hated it, this sense that she was no longer the one holding things together. It felt like her pride was slipping out from under her, and she didn’t know how to handle that. 

***

Wonyoung sat on the couch, the sound of her pen tapping rhythmically against her notebook. She sighed as she flipped through her notes, glancing at the neat list of plans she had meticulously laid out after graduating — building her career, saving up, and getting married to Yujin. She had always envisioned a life of stability and happiness with him, but now everything felt like it was crumbling under the weight of her family’s debt. 

Her phone buzzed, pulling her from her thoughts. She opened her social media and scrolled through the feed. Giselle was smiling in front of a beach, tagging a resort in Bali. Liz had posted pictures from Paris, enjoying the sights with a carefree expression. Wonyoung’s thumb hovered over the screen as a pit formed in her stomach. 

Tears stung her eyes as she realized how different her life was now from the one she had envisioned. She wasn’t traveling the world with Yujin or planning their wedding. She was stuck, tethered by debt that wasn’t even hers, watching everyone around her live their lives while hers felt stagnant. 

She wiped her eyes and continued scrolling, feeling the bitterness rise. Giselle and Liz looked so free, unburdened by the kind of responsibility she was carrying. The realization hit her harder as she stared at the pictures. She was in her late 20s, and instead of enjoying life with Yujin, they were putting every cent they had toward her family’s debt. 

Her phone slipped from her hand as she buried her face in her palms, the weight of it all crashing down. The Hawaii trip they had been planning for months — canceled. Everything they had saved for, everything she had dreamed of, was slipping away. The thought of spending the next two years of her 20s and early 30s paying off debt was suffocating. She didn’t want this life for Yujin either. He was working overtime again, sacrificing his time, and all because of her family’s problems. It wasn’t fair — especially to him. 

Wonyoung wiped her tears, her heart still heavy, but her mind racing with the need for a solution — something faster, something that wouldn’t leave them trapped for years. She couldn’t keep watching Yujin work himself to the bone, sacrificing his dreams, their plans, and his savings, all for her family’s mistakes. 

She needed to make things right, to find a way out. A faster way. Wonyoung stared at her phone for a moment, thinking about the position in the USA her boss had mentioned months ago. It was a big step — a job that could pay much more than what she was making now, a chance to dig them out of this hole faster than they ever could here. 

Her hands trembled as she grabbed her notebook again, this time flipping to a fresh page. She scribbled down a quick list of pros and cons, weighing her options. She’d be away from Yujin for a year, maybe more. They’d be long-distance, but the money — the money — it would solve everything. Her parents wouldn’t have to worry anymore. Yujin could stop working overtime. They could start living again, not just surviving. 

The more she thought about it, the more determined she became. She couldn’t let Yujin keep doing this. They both deserved better than endless sacrifice. Her heart clenched at the thought of leaving him behind, but it was only temporary — she kept telling herself that. They could handle it for the sake of a better future. 

With a deep breath, she made her decision. Tomorrow, she’d talk to her boss about the offer. It was time to take control and fix this mess. For everyone’s sake. 

***

At the law firm, Wonyoung paced quietly in the hallway, her heart beating a little faster as she spotted Ms. Cha walking toward the elevators. This was the moment she had been dreading, but also, in a strange way, had been building herself up for. She had to ask about the position — there was no way around it anymore. 

"Ms. Cha?" Wonyoung called out.

The older woman turned, offering Wonyoung a warm smile. "Wonyoung! What can I do for you?" 

Wonyoung took a deep breath, quickly gathering her thoughts. "I was wondering... the position you mentioned before, the one in the USA. Is it still available?" 

Ms. Cha’s eyes lit up, clearly surprised but eager. "Yes, it’s still open. Have you changed your mind?" Her tone was light, as though she’d been waiting for this moment. 

"Kinda," Wonyoung admitted, feeling a little uncertain even as she spoke the words. She had been so sure last night, but now that the reality of it was so close, her chest tightened. "I’ve been thinking about it more." 

Ms. Cha’s expression brightened even further. "That’s wonderful news! But you should know, I’ll need a decision soon. The position won’t stay open forever. If you accept, you’d be leaving next month. For one year." 

"One year," Wonyoung echoed. It felt both long and short at the same time. Long enough to feel like an eternity, but short in the grand scheme of life. She swallowed hard, nerves creeping in. "And after a year...?" 

"After a year, we’ll discuss an extension if you want to stay," Ms. Cha replied. "But one year is a good start. And if you return to Korea after that, your salary here will increase a bit but nothing compared of what you will earn there of course. It’s the kind of opportunity that can elevate your career." 

Wonyoung nodded, her mind buzzing with the possibilities. The money, the opportunity — both things she desperately needed right now. Still, the weight of the decision pressed heavily on her especially she hasn’t talk about this with Yujin.

"What made you change your mind?" Ms. Cha asked, her tone gentle as she studied Wonyoung’s face. 

Wonyoung felt a blush creep into her cheeks as she answered, "It’s the money... and the opportunity. I... need it now." 

Ms. Cha nodded, her gaze softening with understanding. "I see. Well, Wonyoung, I won’t sugarcoat it — it’s going to be tough. But a year is a short time when you’re busy. You’ll be working hard, learning a lot, earning a lot and the time will fly by before you know it. And remember, opportunities like this don’t come to everyone." 

Her words hung in the air, and Wonyoung felt a knot form in her stomach. One year. A chance to reset everything, to fix the mess she was in. But also a year away from Yujin, away from her life here. 

Ms. Cha’s eyes gleamed with encouragement. "You have what it takes, Wonyoung. Think it over, but don’t take too long. This kind of opportunity doesn’t wait." 

Wonyoung gave a small nod, a weak smile playing at her lips. "I’ll let you know soon. Thank you, Ms. Cha." 

***

Yujin walked into the apartment, his usual cheerful self, despite the late hour. “Honey, I’m home!” he called out, his voice warm and upbeat. Wonyoung sat on the couch, her eyes flicking up from her phone as she watched him kick off his shoes, his energy still so vibrant even after what had to be an exhausting day. It was one of the things she had always admired about him — his positivity seemed to shine through everything, even when it was clear life was wearing him down. 

But lately, Wonyoung couldn’t shake the feeling that Yujin was pushing himself too hard. She had noticed it weeks ago — the subtle changes in his appearance. His face was leaner, his usual healthy glow dimming just slightly. His clothes seemed to hang a bit looser on his tall frame, and every now and then, she caught a glimpse of fatigue in his eyes. It was clear the long hours, the overtime, and the extra work were taking their toll on him, even if he refused to acknowledge it. 

She felt a pang of guilt as she thought about how he was working himself to the bone for her. For them. But mostly, for the debt her family had been buried under. The weight of that realization sat heavy in her chest as Yujin strolled over to her with a bright smile, acting like nothing in the world was wrong. 

“I’ll just shower real quick,” he said, bending down to give her a soft kiss on the forehead before heading toward the bathroom. 

Wonyoung sat there for a moment, her mind racing. She should be happy — grateful, even. Yujin was doing everything he could for them, and yet, all she could feel was guilt. He didn’t deserve this. He didn’t deserve to be so drained, working overtime every day and doing side hustles to bring in extra money. And yet, here he was, always smiling. Always positive. 

When Yujin emerged from the shower, fresh and slightly more relaxed, Wonyoung got up and quickly reheated the food she had prepared earlier. She moved efficiently, her mind still occupied by the guilt weighing on her shoulders. When the food was ready, she set the table and motioned for him to sit. 

“Thanks for waiting,” Yujin said as he took a seat, his smile still as wide as ever. He rubbed his hands together, clearly hungry. “Smells amazing.” 

Wonyoung gave a faint smile in return, watching as he eagerly began eating. Her eyes traced his features — the tiredness that lingered just beneath his bright demeanor, the slight hollowness in his cheeks. He didn’t complain. He never did. But she could see it now. He was doing all of this for her, and it was eating away at him. 

As they ate in relative silence, Wonyoung’s mind raced. This is the perfect time to bring it up.

The clinking of chopsticks against ceramic plates filled the quiet space between them as they ate. Yujin was still cheerfully enjoying his meal. Wonyoung, on the other hand, had barely touched her food. She had been thinking about this conversation all evening, dreading the moment but knowing it had to happen. 

As she carefully placed her chopsticks down, breaking the silence, she cleared her throat. "Yujin... the job position in the USA... it’s still open." 

Yujin froze, his hand still hovering mid-air, chopsticks poised between his fingers. He looked up at her, his heart sinking because he knew. He knew where this was going, but he stayed silent, waiting. Waiting for her to continue. Waiting for the words he was afraid would come next. 

Wonyoung, without meeting his eyes, continued, "I'm going to accept it." 

The air felt heavy in the room, like all the warmth had been sucked out. Yujin placed his chopsticks down carefully, his fingers lingering over them for a second before he spoke. "Why?" 

Wonyoung sighed, as if the answer was obvious, her frustration bubbling beneath the surface. "You know why, Yujin." 

He shook his head slightly, his brows furrowed. "But... we're doing fine. I'm working extra—" 

"Exactly!" Wonyoung cut him off, her voice sharper than she intended. Her hands clenched around her chopsticks, her eyes locking onto him now, and her voice raised a little. "Exactly why I’m going to accept it!" 

Yujin blinked, caught off guard by her sudden intensity. He looked down at the table, his lips pressed tightly together as he tried to process her words. 

"It’s not fair," she continued, her voice shaking now, guilt and anger that wasn’t directed at him but at the situation they were in. "It’s not fair for you to be working yourself to the bone for me... or for my family. You don’t deserve this." 

Yujin opened his mouth to speak, but she kept going, her words flowing faster, like she had been holding them in for too long. 

"When I’m in the USA, we can clear the debt faster. Maybe two years instead of four or five. That way you won’t have to spend your youth like this. Working day and night, stressing over bills, losing sleep for something that isn’t even yours. And I don’t want to spend the rest of my twenties like this either." 

Yujin's expression softened, sadness creeping into his eyes as he listened to her, the weight of her words pressing down on him. She was practical, always thinking ahead, always trying to solve things in the fastest way possible. He understood that. But it didn’t make the pain any easier. 

He took a breath, forcing himself to stay calm, to not let the growing ache in his chest break him. "But I'm okay," he said softly, his voice trembling just slightly. "I'm okay with this. I don’t mind working harder if it means we stay together. You don’t have to—" 

Wonyoung shook her head, her heart aching as she saw how much he was trying to reassure her. "No. You shouldn’t have to handle it. I don’t want you to have to keep pushing yourself like this. I don’t want either of us to be stuck like this in our twenties, Yujin." Her voice wavered as she struggled to find the right words. "I don’t want my late twenties to be like this — scraping by, watching you exhaust yourself for something that could be solved so much faster if I take this opportunity." 

Yujin’s shoulders slumped as he listened, the weight of her words crashing down on him. He was quiet for a long moment, his expression unreadable. "I thought we were doing this together," he finally said. He felt his chest tighten as he looked at her, his hands now resting still on the table, unsure of what to say. He didn’t want her to go, but how could he argue against her? When it’s clear she’s made her decision?

Her eyes softened as she saw the sadness in his face. "It’s not that I don’t appreciate everything you’ve been doing," she said gently. "I do. I really do. But this... this will help us both. And it's only for a year, right?" 

Yujin looked at her, the sadness in his eyes cutting through her. He had always been the supportive one, always willing to sacrifice for her, and yet, here she was, pushing him away. She could see how much this was hurting him, but in her mind, it was the only choice that made sense. 

Wonyoung reached across the table, taking his hand in hers. "We’ll be okay." 

The silence stretched between them, thick and suffocating. Yujin sat frozen, staring down at the table, the words Wonyoung had said swirling in his mind like a storm he couldn’t stop. His chest felt tight, his throat constricting as he tried to hold back the wave of emotions rising inside him. He wanted to be strong, but the overwhelming sense of loss, the frustration, the helplessness — it all finally cracked through the surface. 

A small sob escaped him before he could stop it. His hands trembled, and the tears began to fall, soft at first, but then they came all at once, spilling over his cheeks as he buried his face in his hands. 

Wonyoung’s heart broke at the sight. She stood up immediately, walking over to him, and knelt beside his chair. She gently wrapped her arms around him, pulling him into her embrace, her own eyes welling up with tears as she held him close. "Yujin... we’ll be fine," she whispered, her voice soft but wavering. "We can do this. It’s just a year. One year." 

Yujin’s body shook as he cried, his face buried in her shoulder. "A year..." he echoed, his voice choked with sobs. "Just a year." 

Wonyoung nodded, blinking back her own tears, trying to stay composed. "Yes, just a year. We’ll get through it. I promise." 

But Yujin suddenly pulled away slightly, looking up at her through tear-filled eyes, his expression filled with pain and confusion. "But... why? Why is it not okay that I’m working more?" he asked, his voice breaking with every word. "Why... why is it not enough for you?" 

His words hit Wonyoung like a punch to the gut, and her breath caught in her throat. She could see the raw hurt in his eyes, the childlike innocence in the way he was questioning her, desperate to understand. She opened her mouth to answer, but Yujin continued, his sobs making his words come out jagged and broken. 

"Why... why do you get to decide what’s okay for me?" His voice cracked again as he wiped his tears with the back of his hand. "I’m doing everything I can... for us, for you. So why is it not enough? Why... why are you making this decision without me?" 

Wonyoung’s chest tightened, her heart aching as she watched him fall apart. She reached for him again, gently cupping his face in her hands. "Yujin, it’s not that you’re not enough. You are. You’re more than enough." Her voice was soft, but she could barely keep it steady now. "This... this is about my family’s problem. It’s something I need to take care of." 

"But... we’re family," Yujin sobbed, his voice a mix of desperation and heartbreak. "Aren’t we? Why... why are you so prideful about this? Why can’t we face it together?" 

Wonyoung’s tears finally spilled over, and she pulled him close again, her arms wrapped tightly around him. She rested her chin on his shoulder, her voice shaking as she whispered, "We are family. We are. But... this is something I need to do on my own. I can’t let you keep sacrificing for me like this. I love you too much to see you burn yourself out." 

Yujin’s sobs only grew louder, and Wonyoung felt his tears soak into her shirt. He clung to her, his hands fisting the fabric of her shirt, as if letting go would make her disappear entirely. "But I want to help," he cried. "I want to. Why can’t you see that?" 

Wonyoung’s heart shattered, and she squeezed her eyes shut, her own tears now falling freely. "I know," she whispered. "I know, Yujin. And that’s why I have to go. For us. For our future. So we can return to our lives normally, so we can do all the things we planned to do in time."

 And as she held Yujin, both of them crying in each other’s arms, she realized just how fragile everything between them had become. 

***

That night, after telling Yujin about her decision to go to the USA, Wonyoung sits on their bed. The light flickers from her phone on the table, showing a message from her mother. She sighs, not picking it up immediately, knowing it’s probably another update about her family’s ongoing struggles with the debt. Wonyoung scrolls to the recent bank transfer confirmation, the amount she sent to them this month, and swipes it away like it’s an irritating notification.

She’s been sending money regularly, fulfilling her role as the dutiful daughter. But lately, that duty feels hollow, like a transaction. She does it because she must, but there’s no warmth in it anymore, not now at least. Her father caused this mess, she thinks bitterly. How could he have been so careless, letting himself get scammed and leaving her with the responsibility to fix it? The resentment weighs heavy on her heart, like an anchor dragging her down every time she remembers that the debt isn’t even hers or Yujin’s to begin with.

When her phone rings with her mother’s name flashing, Wonyoung lets it go to voicemail. She used to feel guilty when she did this always calling back when she finally has time, but now, she’s grown numb. All she can think about is how this debt has taken over her life — forcing her to leave Yujin, to sacrifice their time together, just so she can go to the USA and work herself to the bone for a year or more.

“I’m not a bad daughter,” she tells herself, even though the gnawing coldness in her chest says otherwise. Her parents rely on her again, and yet, when she imagines her father, all she feels is resentment. Her love for him, for the family, feels like a thread fraying at the edges.

She brushes her hand through Yujin’s hair as he sleeps there after crying so hard. Yujin doesn’t deserve this burden either. She doesn’t tell him everything about how deeply she resents her father for forcing her into this situation, but it bubbles beneath the surface every time she sends that money, every time she hears from them. It’s not the same anymore.

***

Wonyoung sat at the kitchen table in her parents’ modest home, her hands clasped tightly together. She had rehearsed this moment in her mind a thousand times, but now that she was here, the words felt heavy. Her mother, busy washing dishes, and her father, sitting across from her, looked up expectantly, waiting for what she had to say. 

“I’m going to the USA next month,” Wonyoung finally said, her voice steady but void of emotion. “I’ve accepted the offer from the law firm to help clear the debt faster.” 

Yunmi stopped in the middle of scrubbing a plate, turning around with wide eyes. “Next month? So soon?”

Yool-ho looked down, a shadow of guilt passing over his face. “We didn’t know you were planning this,” he said quietly. “But… we understand. You’re doing it for us.” 

Wonyoung nodded, but there was no warmth in her acknowledgment. She glanced toward her mother, who was now fidgeting with the dish towel, trying to mask her worry. “I’ll be gone for a year, at least,” Wonyoung added. “I’ll send money back like I always do, but… that’s it.” 

Yunmi, always the one to try and lighten the mood, forced a smile. “I’ll cook for you before you leave. Something special for my daughter,” she offered, but Wonyoung shook her head. 

“No need,” she replied. “I’m not going for a farewell party.” 

Her father, sitting there with his hands wringing together, looked more fragile than she had ever seen him. The weight of the debt had aged him, but Wonyoung couldn’t summon the pity she used to feel. The resentment had long taken root. He cleared his throat. “I’m sorry, Wonyoung. I’m really sorry for everything. I’ll pay you back someday, when the restaurant starts earning more.” 

A bitter laugh escaped Wonyoung’s lips before she could stop it. The sound echoed through the quiet kitchen, heavy with unsaid things. “No need,” she said coldly, her eyes hard as they met her father’s. “But next time… if you ever fall into something like this again, I won’t hesitate to let you go directly to jail. I also filed a case against your brother too.” 

Yool-ho flinched at her words, the shame in his eyes deepening. He opened his mouth to speak but hesitated, clearly searching for something to say that might ease the tension between them. After a long pause, he spoke in a soft voice. “I’ll remove my name from the title of the house and the restaurant business.” 

Wonyoung’s eyes flickered with something unreadable, but she didn’t argue. She just nodded, the coldness in her chest solidifying. “Good,” was all she said before standing up, ready to leave. The emotional distance between them felt more palpable than ever. 

Her mother stepped forward as if to hug her, but Wonyoung didn’t move. “I’ll see you both before I leave,” she said, turning on her heel and heading toward the door without waiting for a response. 

***

Yujin sat next to Wonyoung on the couch, watching her watch the TV with a distant expression. For the past few weeks, the weight of her decision to go to the USA had darkened her mood, and he could feel the stress she was carrying. He leaned over and gently squeezed her hand. 

"Wonyoung," Yujin began softly, catching her attention. She looked up at him, her eyes tired but still filled with warmth for him. 

"What is it?" 

"I asked for a two-week leave from work," he said with a small smile. "I’m coming with you to the USA before you start your job." 

Wonyoung blinked, processing his words. "You... you’re coming with me?" she asked, her tone lifting, disbelief and hope intertwining. 

"Yeah," Yujin nodded. "I thought we could spend those two weeks together. You know, explore the city, have fun, and just... be with each other before we're apart for a while. I’ll take care of you and help you settle."

For the first time in weeks, a genuine smile tugged at Wonyoung’s lips. Her eyes brightened, a flicker of the joy she hadn’t felt in so long returning. "Really?" 

Yujin grinned, seeing the change in her expression. "Of course. I can’t let you go off to the USA without having a proper send-off, right? And besides, I want to be there for you. I know this is a big change."

Wonyoung’s heart swelled, the heaviness that had been weighing on her chest easing slightly. In that moment, she realized just how much Yujin's presence meant to her — how he was the only one who could lift her spirits when everything else seemed bleak. She wrapped her arms around him, burying her face in his shoulder. 

"Thank you, you’re the only one who makes me feel okay these days." 

Yujin hugged her tightly, kissing the top of her head. "I’ll always be here for you, Wonyoung. No matter what." 

***

The day of their flight to the USA arrived, and Yujin and Wonyoung stood by the door of their apartment, taking one last look around. "I guess this is goodbye for now," Yujin said, his arm wrapped around her shoulders. Wonyoung nodded, her thoughts swirling with mixed emotions about leaving their cozy home behind, even if only temporarily. After two weeks, Yujin would return, and the thought of that left a bittersweet feeling in her chest. 

They arrived at the airport, and while Yujin had been to the U.S. before, this was Wonyoung’s first time. She felt a mix of excitement and nervousness as she boarded the flight. 

The law firm had prepared a small apartment for Wonyoung, and Yujin quickly helped her settle in. The apartment was small, with just enough space for her to feel at home. While unpacking her clothes and personal items, Yujin diligently lined up the Korean canned goods and ramen on the kitchen shelves, placing them carefully in rows. 

"This is just in case of emergency, okay?" he said, turning to her with a gentle but serious look. "Don't rely on these. I want you to eat healthy here." 

Wonyoung smiled, feeling a warmth spread through her as she wrapped her arms around him. "I'm so lucky you're here for me," she said softly, her head resting against his chest. "I appreciate you coming all this way." 

***

It was early morning, Wonyoung stirred awake, feeling the flutter of nerves building in her chest — it was her first day on the job. She could hear Yujin moving around in the kitchen, the sound of pans clinking gently and the soft hum of him preparing breakfast. 

She got ready, her hands shaking slightly as she applied her makeup. When she stepped out of the bathroom, Yujin was waiting for her at the small table, setting down a plate of neatly arranged eggs and toast. He smiled warmly, though he could sense her tension. 

"You’ll do great today," Yujin said confidently, pulling out a chair for her to sit. "I know you’re nervous, but you’ve got this." 

Wonyoung sighed, taking a seat and glancing at the breakfast he made. "I really hope so. Everything feels so new, and I don’t want to mess up." 

Yujin walked over and kissed her lightly on the top of her head, careful not to disturb her perfectly done hair and makeup. "You won’t," he reassured her softly. "You’re amazing at what you do. Just remember that." 

After breakfast, Yujin insisted on going with her to the law firm. They walked side by side through the bustling streets, her hand tightly clasped in his. When they reached the tall glass building that housed her new workplace, Wonyoung hesitated, her heart racing again. 

"I’ll pick you up later after work, okay?" Yujin said, squeezing her hand gently. 

***

Wonyoung walked into the office, her heels clicking on the polished floor as she made her way to her desk. The atmosphere at work was professional, almost too distant, and though everyone was polite, she couldn’t shake the feeling of being out of place. She wasn’t here to make friends, though; she was here to work and clear her family’s debt. So she kept her interactions polite, focusing on her tasks and getting through the day. 

It became a routine: mornings with Yujin where he would prepare her breakfast, followed by long hours at the firm, and then the comforting sight of Yujin waiting for her when she walked out of the building in the evening. They would walk home together, always hand-in-hand, chatting about their day or just enjoying the quiet company of each other. They’d have dinner — sometimes something simple he’d made, other times they’d grab takeout. And then, when the world outside quieted down, they would fall into bed, tangled together in passionate love-making, where all her worries disappeared. He made her feel secure, loved, and she clung to that, especially now. 

But as the days passed, there was this little ache growing in her chest. She could feel it each time Yujin mentioned his flight back to Korea, which loomed closer and closer. In the quiet moments after they made love, when Yujin would hold her close, her heart would tighten just a little more, the thought of him not being there weighing heavier on her mind. 

One evening, after another perfect night together, Wonyoung lay in bed with her head resting against Yujin’s chest. His steady heartbeat was a comforting rhythm, but it couldn’t drown out the dull ache inside her. 

“I’m going to miss you so much when you leave,” she whispered, afraid to break the peaceful silence between them. 

Yujin kissed the top of her head softly, holding her tighter. “I’ll miss you too, so much. But we’ll make it work, I promise. I’ll be here whenever you need me.” 

Wonyoung didn’t respond, her mind lingering on the thought of how different everything would feel once he was gone. She knew she had to be strong, but it was hard to imagine her life here without him by her side. And the ache in her heart only deepened as each day brought them closer to that inevitable goodbye. 

***

Yujin was out on a quick grocery run, strolling through the streets, when something caught his eye — a small, vintage music store tucked between towering buildings. Unable to resist, he stepped inside, the scent of old vinyl and polished wood filling the air. 

As he browsed through the records, his ears picked up a rhythm. There, in the corner of the store, was a guy seated at a small setup, creating beats with his friend. The steady bass and intricate melody drew Yujin closer, his head naturally nodding to the rhythm. 

Intrigued, Yujin slowly approached, listening as the beats shifted and evolved. One of the guys caught sight of him. “Hey, you know this track?” he asked with a curious look. 

Yujin nodded, feeling the vibe of the beat. Without hesitation, he started rapping, his words flowing effortlessly to the rhythm. The guy joined in, spitting his own verse, and soon Yujin dropped the rap to start beatboxing, providing a solid backdrop to their impromptu performance. The energy in the room spiked, and both of them vibed off each other, turning the quiet music store into a lively scene. 

When they finished, the guy looked at Yujin, clearly impressed. “Yo, that was sick! You make music?” 

Yujin smiled, “Yeah, just on my free time though.” 

The guy extended his hand. “I’m Felix. Dude, your beats are awesome. You Korean?” 

Yujin nodded and they exchanged socials and SoundCloud, already discussing the kind of music they both enjoyed. As Felix scrolled through Yujin’s tracks, his eyes lit up. “Man, these are solid. We gotta collab, no question. You here long?” 

Yujin shook his head. “Nah, I’m just here for a bit. I’ll be heading back to Korea soon.” 

Felix grinned. “No worries. I’ll hit you up. When I’m ready to drop my album, you’re the first one I’m calling. But let’s meet up here, man before you leave.” 

***

After hanging out at the music store and meeting Felix, Yujin stepped back onto the bustling street, the cool New York air brushing against his face. As he walked, his mind began to wander, thinking about the days ahead. Next week, he'd be back in Korea, and the reality of leaving Wonyoung behind started to weigh on him. He wanted to make the last few days count, to do something meaningful that would remind them both that even though they’d be apart, they would always come back to each other. 

As he turned a corner, Yujin found himself standing outside a jewelry store. The sleek, modern display caught his eye, and before he knew it, his feet were carrying him inside. The warm glow of the store’s lights contrasted the noise of the city outside. Everything felt quiet and intimate, like time had slowed down for just a moment. 

Yujin walked slowly through the aisles, scanning the rings. His heart beat a little faster as he thought about the idea — giving Wonyoung something symbolic, something that would remind her of their promise to be together again after a year. He couldn’t splurge, not with their current budget, but he knew it didn’t have to be flashy. It just had to be meaningful. 

His gaze eventually settled on a section of simpler, more affordable rings. His eyes caught a small diamond ring — elegant, subtle, nothing too extravagant, but just enough to represent everything he felt. The band was thin, the diamond modest but sparkling under the soft light. He picked it up, feeling the cool metal against his fingers, and glanced at the price. It was still within his reach, despite everything. With Wonyoung already in the USA, their financial burden had lifted somewhat, and he could manage this. 

Yujin smiled softly to himself. This wasn’t just about the money — it was about what the ring meant. He pictured Wonyoung’s reaction, imagined the way her eyes would light up when she saw it. It was enough. More than enough. 

***

Yujin and Wonyoung were sitting on a bench in the park, enjoying the cool afternoon breeze. Wonyoung had just finished a sandwich from a nearby food truck, and Yujin couldn’t help but tease her. 

“You know,” Yujin said, grinning as he nudged her. “You really shouldn’t be eating that much unhealthy or greasy food. The portions here are huge, and the oil, my god…” 

Wonyoung burst out laughing. “Okay, okay! I get it. I’ll start eating at home. Besides, I want to be healthy, and cooking at home is definitely cheaper.” 

“Exactly!” Yujin said, nodding proudly. “But you don’t have to worry about living too cheap. You can always use the money in our savings. I’ve been putting more into it, and I’ll keep transferring money, so you’re set.” 

Wonyoung looked at him, her expression softening. “You’ve been working so hard to save money for us,” she said quietly. “I’ll pay you back someday for everything you’ve contributed to the debt. I mean it.” 

Yujin laughed, reaching out to ruffle her hair. “Pay me back? What for? We’re gonna be husband and wife someday, Wonyoung. We’re in this together! Better use that money for our house, car, or even our wedding.

As Wonyoung rested her head on Yujin's shoulder, she felt a wave of emotion wash over her. Yujin, this steady rock in her life, had been her constant source of comfort and strength. Without him, she was sure she would have crashed under the weight of everything long ago — from law school, her father's debt, the pressure of her job, the isolation she felt in a new country. But Yujin had always been there, lifting her spirits with his warmth and unwavering positivity. 

This silly boy, she thought, a small smile tugging at her lips as she looked up at him. The boy I met years ago, who I thought was nothing more than trouble. How did he become this pillar in my life? 

Yujin had been a whirlwind of charm and carefree energy back then, and somehow, that energy was what kept her grounded now. He was always there with his teasing jokes, his laughter, his support. So sweet, so kind, so positive. 

***

Yujin had spent the late afternoon preparing, setting the table in Wonyoung’s tiny apartment with candles flickering gently and a small bouquet of fresh flowers in the center. The warm glow of the candles softened the cramped space, making it feel intimate and romantic. He asked Wonyoung to buy something from a nearby store just to make all of this. When Wonyoung walked in, she immediately noticed the effort he had put in and asked with a curious smile, “What’s the occasion?” 

Yujin, leaning casually against the kitchen counter with his charming grin, shrugged, "Every day is a celebration when I’m with you." His voice was smooth, and it made Wonyoung blush, a giggle slipping out as she tried to act unaffected. 

As they settled into dinner, Wonyoung glanced across the table, her expression growing tender as she took in Yujin’s face, realizing just how much she would miss him. 

“I’ll really miss you when you go back to Korea,” Wonyoung said softly, her voice carrying a weight of sadness. 

Yujin paused, placing his fork down gently. He was about to respond with reassurance, but before he could say anything, Wonyoung, her emotions getting the best of her, continued, “Maybe… maybe you should apply for a job here. You know, ask for a transfer? Since your work is international anyway, right?” 

"What about our apartment back in Korea?" he asked softly, knowing they had worked hard to make it their own little space. It was a small piece of home they had built together, and it held meaning for both of them. 

Wonyoung’s shoulders dropped slightly. She hadn’t thought about that. It was their first apartment, a symbol of their future, and she didn’t want to let go of it. “Yeah… I guess I didn’t think of that,” she murmured, her eyes flicking up to meet his. 

Yujin then chuckled, trying to lift her spirits. “Also… if I did apply for a transfer, my company’s based in San Francisco.” He gave her a teasing smile, adding, “We’d still be apart from each other, kinda. I mean, New York and San Francisco? Around 6 hour flight I guess.” 

Wonyoung pouted, letting out a soft sigh, “So either way, we’re not exactly close.” 

He nodded but quickly reassured her with a warm smile. “But, honey,” he said gently, taking her hands in his, “One year will be quick. And I’ll make sure our video calls are always on after work. Even if we’re both busy doing something else, we can still be together, in a way. We’ll be side by side on the screen.” 

Wonyoung looked at him, feeling a little more at ease, but still biting the inside of her cheek as she processed it. The thought of being apart was still hard to accept. “You always make everything seem so easy.” 

Yujin grinned, playfully poking her cheek. “That’s because it will be. We’re gonna get through this year, and before you know it, we’ll be together again. You’ll blink, and I’ll be right there, annoying you like always.” 

Wonyoung let out a soft laugh, the tension in her chest loosening. “Okay, fine. You win,” she said, her pout softening into a smile. “I’ll hold you to that promise.” 

After dinner, Yujin stood up and walked over to his phone. He scrolled through his playlist and found a slow, romantic song, letting it softly fill the apartment. Then, he turned to Wonyoung with a playful glint in his eyes, holding out his hand. 

"Can I have this dance?" he asked, with an exaggerated bow. "Mademoiselle?" 

Wonyoung laughed, raising an eyebrow. “Are you serious?” she asked, giggling at his sudden gesture. 

Yujin grinned, his eyes twinkling as he kept his hand extended. “Absolutely. Maidemoselle, I’m always serious about dancing with you.” 

With a roll of her eyes but a soft smile on her lips, Wonyoung slipped her hand into his, standing up from her chair. He gently pulled her into his arms, and they swayed together in the tiny space of the apartment, their bare feet brushing against the cool floor. 

Wonyoung couldn’t help but chuckle again, resting her head against his chest as they moved. “You’re feeling really romantic today, huh?”

Yujin smiled down at her. “I’m always romantic. You just don’t notice it sometimes,” he replied smoothly. 

Wonyoung laughed, shaking her head as she pulled him a little closer, her arms wrapped around his neck. “You know what? That’s true,” she admitted softly.

She hugged him tighter, pressing her face into his shoulder. “But it’s going to be so hard being apart from you,” she whispered, her words soft but carrying the weight of her emotions. Her fingers grazed through his hair, as if holding him tighter might make the impending distance between them a little more bearable. 

Yujin closed his eyes, savoring the moment, his hand resting protectively on her back. He had a way of making everything feel okay, even when it wasn’t easy. But he could sense the heaviness in her voice, the worry she was trying to hide. 

Wonyoung pulled away slightly, just enough to look into his eyes. Her gaze was tender, filled with love and longing. Without another word, she kissed him deeply, her hands tangling in his hair, trying to memorize the feeling of him close to her. 

When she finally pulled back, her voice was breathless, but filled with certainty. “I love you so much, Yujin,” she whispered, her forehead resting against his. 

Yujin’s heart swelled, and he smiled softly, brushing a stray hair from her face. “I love you more, Wonyoung,” he said quietly, his thumb gently stroking her cheek. 

Wonyoung giggled softly, leaning her head on Yujin’s chest, enjoying the warmth of his embrace. The small apartment felt like their own little world, filled with the glow of candlelight, soft music, and the intimacy they shared. But as the music faded, Yujin gently pulled back, his eyes searching hers, more serious than before. 

“Hey,” he began softly, brushing a strand of her hair behind her ear, his fingers lingering on her cheek. “I’ve been thinking a lot... about us, about this next year.” 

Wonyoung’s heart fluttered, her mind catching on his sudden shift in tone. She gazed up at him, her pulse quickening. 

“I promise you,” Yujin said, his voice low and steady, “I’ll come back here after your contract is done. I will pick you up. We’ll be together again, and we’ll never have to be apart after that.” 

His words hung in the air, heavy with meaning. Wonyoung blinked, her lips parting as she felt an overwhelming rush of emotion. Yujin’s hand slid into his pocket, and when he pulled it out, her eyes widened. A small ring, delicate and simple, with a tiny diamond, glistened in the candlelight. She stared at it, her breath catching in her throat. 

For a split second, she thought he was proposing. Her heart skipped a beat as the weight of the moment settled over her, but then Yujin spoke again, his tone light yet filled with sincerity. 

“This isn’t an engagement ring,” he said, offering her a soft smile, one that made her heart melt. “You deserve something more beautiful for that, something that’ll blow you away.” His thumb brushed over the ring as he held it between his fingers. “But this... this is my promise to you.” 

Wonyoung’s eyes flickered from the ring to Yujin’s face, her chest tightening as she realized the depth of his words. 

“I promise,” Yujin continued, his voice steady, “that I’ll love you, wait for you, and make sure you never feel alone, no matter how far apart we are. Even with the distance, I’ll make sure you feel like I’m always here.” He paused, his gaze soft but determined. “I’ll work hard, and I’ll make sure one year is enough to pay off everything. After that, we’ll be free... free to live how we want, without any more distance between us. This is a promise of our love, that we will always find our way back to each other.” 

Wonyoung’s breath hitched as he gently took her hand, slipping the ring onto her finger. The cool metal against her skin felt real, like a tangible sign of everything they’d been through and all that lay ahead. She stared at the ring, a lump forming in her throat, then lifted her eyes to meet Yujin’s. 

Tears welled up, not from sadness but from the overwhelming love and gratitude she felt in that moment. Without him, she couldn’t imagine how she would’ve made it this far. 

“You…” Wonyoung whispered, her voice shaky, “you’re my rock, Yujin. I don’t know where I’d be without you.” 

Yujin’s smile widened, his hands resting on her waist as he pulled her closer. “You won’t ever have to find out,” he whispered, pressing his forehead gently against hers. 

Wonyoung’s chest swelled with warmth, and she threw her arms around him, burying her face in the crook of his neck. “I love you so much,” she whispered, her voice thick with emotion, tears lightly staining her cheeks. “I’m so lucky to have you.” Her heart raced as she leaned in, pressing soft kisses across Yujin's face, murmuring, “I love you, I love you,” over and over again, her lips never stopping. She wanted him to feel every word. Yujin's lips curled into a sweet smile, his eyes half-closed as he soaked in her affection. Each kiss sent a surge of warmth through him, and he could only sigh with happiness as her love poured out. 

Her kisses trailed down to his neck, slow and lingering, causing him to breathe deeply. Yujin's hands instinctively found her hips, sliding lower until his fingers cupped her ass, pulling her closer. Wonyoung felt her body melt into him, her breath hitching when he gripped her tighter. Without breaking their kiss, she lifted herself slightly, her legs wrapping around his waist as she shifted on his lap. 

Yujin groaned softly against her lips as he held her up, their bodies flush against one another. They kissed hungrily, tongues meeting, breaths mingling, and the heat between them intensified with every second. Her legs still locked around him, holding her as if she weighed nothing. 

She held onto him, lips never leaving his as Yujin walked them slowly toward the bedroom. The world outside blurred away, the only thing that mattered was the feeling of each other — the closeness, the warmth, the love. Gently, he laid her down on the bed, hovering over her as their kiss deepened. Wonyoung’s hands roamed through his hair, tugging slightly, eliciting a low growl from him as he kissed her deeper. 

Yujin’s lips moved slowly down to Wonyoung’s neck, placing gentle, lingering kisses on her soft skin, making her shiver beneath him. Each kiss sent a spark through her body, her breath catching in her throat. As his hands moved to the hem of her top, he slowly lifted it, exposing her bare chest. His fingers brushed against her skin, and she let out a soft moan, her body arching slightly in response to his touch. 

The air between them felt different tonight — more intense, more meaningful. The promise ring he had just given her still lingered in her mind, but right now, all she could focus on was Yujin and how close they were. The love and passion they shared were overflowing, almost overwhelming. 

Wonyoung’s hands reached for the hem of his shirt, pulling it up and over his head. As she did, her fingertips grazed his warm skin, feeling the firmness of his abs and the familiar tattoo of her name inked delicately on his collarbone. Her fingers traced over the letters, a soft smile tugging at her lips as she admired it, feeling a rush of emotions. It was as if he carried a part of her with him, always. 

Yujin’s hands slid up her body, gently caressing her breasts, making her moan softly again. His lips found her skin once more, moving down from her neck to her collarbone, kissing every inch of her. The heat between them grew with every touch, every whisper of breath. It was as though they were trying to capture this moment, knowing they had only a short time left before he had to leave. 

His tongue teased Wonyoung’s breasts, swirling gently over her skin before he sucked on her nipple with a mix of roughness and care that sent shockwaves through her body. She groaned, her fingers tangling in his hair as he played with her, her body responding to every touch. His lips were relentless, moving from one breast to the other, giving each equal attention, as if he was savoring every inch of her. 

Her breathing grew heavier, her body tingling with anticipation. Yujin’s mouth left her breasts and began trailing soft kisses down her stomach. Each touch of his lips ignited a deeper warmth in her, making her feel more and more vulnerable to him. He knew exactly how to unravel her, how to make her want more with just the smallest movements. 

As his fingers found the waistband of her shorts, he tugged them down slowly, along with her underwear, revealing her completely to him. The heat between them grew, thickening the air with tension. Wonyoung's body trembled with the desire building inside her as Yujin’s kisses moved further down, edging toward her most sensitive spot. She felt his breath against her core, the anticipation driving her wild. Her body was already on fire, but the way he took his time — making every movement deliberate and full of passion — made her pulse race even faster.

Yujin settled between Wonyoung’s thighs, his lips grazing her pussy before he started using his tongue, licking slowly at first, then more passionately. His mouth explored her, licking and sucking with intensity, savoring the taste of her as he held her legs firmly in place. His hands gripped her thighs, gently but possessively, guiding her body as her hips instinctively bucked and shifted beneath him. 

Wonyoung's moans filled the room, her head falling back into the pillows as she whimpered in pleasure. The sensation of Yujin’s mouth on her, the way he expertly explored her every inch, was overwhelming. His tongue was relentless, teasing her, building her up until she could barely control herself. Her hands clutched the sheets, her body trembling as she gasped for air. 

Yujin slipped his fingers inside her, the heat of her body drawing him in as he curled his fingers just right. At the same time, his lips found her sensitive clit again, flicking his tongue against it in slow, deliberate strokes. The combination of his fingers moving inside her and his tongue teasing her most sensitive spot sent waves of pleasure crashing through her. 

Wonyoung’s body arched off the bed, her breath hitching as the overwhelming sensation built within her. She could barely form words, her moans turning into needy whimpers as Yujin’s rhythm intensified. His fingers moved in sync with the flick of his tongue, coaxing her closer to the edge with every movement. The pressure inside her built higher and higher, her body completely at his mercy. 

"Y-Yujin..." she whimpered, her voice shaking as she felt herself nearing that point of no return. The pleasure was too much, too intense, as if every nerve in her body was alive and burning with desire. Her hands gripped the sheets even tighter, her thighs trembling as she felt her climax building fast. 

He continued, relentless in his focus, his tongue and fingers working in perfect harmony to push her further. His tongue flicked her sensitive bud with just the right pressure, his fingers curling and thrusting deeper. The sensations became too much, and Wonyoung felt herself tipping over the edge, her orgasm crashing through her like a wave as she cried out, her entire body shaking from the intensity of it. 

Wonyoung’s body was still trembling from the powerful orgasm, but the heat between them hadn’t subsided. Yujin, grinning mischievously, licked the last of her sweetness from his lips as he watched her hips shift involuntarily. "You taste so good," he whispered, his voice low and full of hunger. "You're my favorite dessert." 

She couldn't help but smile at his words, her body still pulsing from the pleasure he’d just given her. Without missing a beat, she grabbed him by the neck, pulling him into a fierce, wild kiss, her lips crushing against his as if she couldn't get enough. The intensity between them was electric, her fingers tangling in his hair as she devoured him, tasting herself on his lips. 

Still riding the high from her orgasm, Wonyoung, now fueled by her own desire, pushed him back onto the bed. Yujin let her take control, his breath coming out in short gasps as she hovered over him, her lips leaving a fiery trail of kisses down his neck. She could feel his pulse quickening beneath her lips, her touch teasing and taunting as her mouth traveled lower. Wonyoung kissed his collarbone, then down his chest, her fingers exploring the firm muscles of his abs, savoring every inch of him. 

Her lips reached the tattoo on his collarbone — the one he had for her. She traced it with her fingers, then kissed the ink softly, her touch gentle yet filled with emotion, before her kisses grew more daring, moving down his abs, her breath hot against his skin. She felt him shiver under her touch, his body responding to every kiss, every movement, and she could feel his need for her growing with each passing second. 

Wonyoung's fingers worked quickly, freeing Yujin from the confines of his pants and boxers. Her eyes sparkled as she saw him, already hard and ready for her. She smiled slyly, a knowing look in her eyes as she wrapped her delicate fingers around his length, making Yujin groan in anticipation. 

He couldn't tear his eyes away from her, the sight of her lips so close to his dick sending a surge of heat through his body. Wonyoung hovered over his tip, teasing him, her breath hot against him, her lips barely touching. Yujin let out a low moan, his fingers digging into the sheets as he fought to control himself, but the desire was too strong. She was so sexy, so completely his, and it was driving him mad. 

As her soft lips wrapped around him, Yujin's head fell back, his eyes closing in bliss. The sensation of her mouth on him, warm and wet, sent waves of pleasure coursing through his entire body. His breath hitched, and a guttural moan escaped his lips as Wonyoung began to move, taking him deeper with each passing moment. The way she teased him, the way her tongue flicked against him, sent him spiraling.

Wonyoung wanted to give Yujin the same pleasure he had given her, to show him how much she appreciated all the sweet things he did for her and how deeply she loved him. Her hands moved in sync with her mouth, stroking him up and down, determined to bring him to the same heights he had just led her to. Her lips working around him, taking him in deeper as she focused on his pleasure. 

Yujin groaned, his breath heavy as his hands found her breasts, cupping them gently in return. His thumbs brushed over her sensitive skin, making her moan softly even as she continued to work him. 

As Yujin felt himself teetering on the edge, he gently pulled back, not wanting to finish too soon in her mouth. His breaths were ragged, as he shifted their positions, gently guiding Wonyoung to lie back down on the bed. 

He kissed her neck softly at first, letting his lips trail down to her collarbone, tasting her skin as his hands roamed her body. He moved lower, teasing her nipples with his mouth, sucking them gently, eliciting soft moans from her. Wonyoung's body arched in response to his touch, her fingers gripping the sheets as her need for him grew stronger. 

Yujin’s hard length pressed against her slick folds, and he rubbed himself teasingly along her entrance, feeling her wetness. The heat between them intensified with each passing second, their bodies responding to one another. He groaned softly, his lips still trailing over her skin as he slowly thrust inside her, filling her completely. 

Wonyoung gasped, her legs wrapping around his waist, pulling him closer as he buried himself deep within her. 

Yujin began to move inside her, his thrusts deep and purposeful, each one pulling them closer together. Their lips found each other once again, kissing lewdly and with wild passion. The kiss was messy, full of hunger and desire, their tongues tangling as they breathed each other in. The heat between them built with every second, with every movement of their bodies. 

Wonyoung’s hands roamed across Yujin’s back, nails gently raking his skin, while his hands were everywhere — on her waist, gripping her hips, holding her close as he fucked her hard. Their bodies were flush against one another, moving in perfect sync. The bed creaked beneath them, but all they could focus on was the intense connection they shared in this moment. 

Their hands found each other, fingers intertwining tightly, as if they were afraid to let go. The intensity of their love and desire for each other was so evident, so raw. Each thrust from Yujin was met with Wonyoung’s soft moans and the way her body arched toward him, craving more. 

Yujin couldn’t help but groan as he felt how slick and warm she was around him, and Wonyoung’s soft gasps and moans only spurred him on. He increased his pace, thrusting harder, deeper, the pleasure between them spiraling out of control. His fingers found Wonyoung’s sensitive clit, rubbing it in fast, tight circles, sending jolts of pleasure through her body. Wonyoung gasped in surprise, her moans filling the small room as he continued to thrust harder and faster inside her. The intensity of his movements, paired with the sensation on her clit, made her body tremble with pleasure. 

Her back arched off the bed as she clung to Yujin, nails digging into his skin. She couldn’t control the sounds escaping her lips, her moans growing louder, more desperate with each second. Yujin's touch on her clit was relentless, his fingers working in perfect rhythm with his thrusts, pushing her closer and closer to the edge. Her body responded to him completely, every nerve alight with the pleasure he was giving her. She felt like she was on fire, every touch, every thrust sending her spiraling higher. Yujin groaned at the sight of her coming undone beneath him, her breathless moans driving him to push even harder, wanting her to feel everything. 

Yujin leaned down, taking Wonyoung’s breast into his mouth, sucking hard as his teeth gently grazed her sensitive nipple. The combined sensations of his lips on her, his fingers rubbing her clit, and his hard length thrusting deep inside her were overwhelming. Wonyoung cried out, her body trembling beneath him, her moans spilling out uncontrollably. 

"Fuck, Yujin... oh god...," Wonyoung gasped, her voice breathless as the pleasure consumed her entirely. 

Yujin grunted, sucking harder on her breast, his tongue swirling around her nipple before pulling away slightly, only to take her entire breast into his mouth again. His fingers continued their relentless pace on her clit, driving her further into bliss. 

"You’re so perfect, Wonyoung," Yujin whispered against her skin, his voice low and rough with desire. "Your body... it’s incredible... fuck, you’re driving me insane." 

His praise, the way he worshipped her body, sent another wave of heat crashing through her. Her back arched off the bed, and she whimpered under his touch, even more turned on by the way he made her feel wanted, adored, and loved. Every word he said ignited something deeper in her, her body responding eagerly to him. 

Wonyoung’s body trembled uncontrollably, overwhelmed by the waves of pleasure crashing through her. She gasped, her hands clutching Yujin's shoulders as she felt herself hurtling toward the edge, her body responding to every stroke, every kiss. The heat between them was all-consuming, her heart racing as her orgasm built. 

“Yujin... fuck... oh my god...” Wonyoung cried, her voice catching in her throat, the pressure mounting until she could no longer hold back. The feeling of his body against hers, his lips on her skin, was too much to handle. She arched her back, pressing herself closer to him as her climax hit her with an intensity that made her toes curl. Her breath caught in her throat, and a sharp moan escaped her lips, loud and uninhibited. 

Yujin could feel her tightening around him, the way her body quivered in pleasure pushing him even closer to his own release. He groaned, burying his face in her neck as he picked up his pace, thrusting harder and deeper into her. Each motion was powerful and full of need, his hips moving with the urgency of desire. 

"I'm close," Yujin groaned, his breath hot and heavy against her ear, his voice raw with need. He was teetering on the edge, his body strained with the effort of holding back, wanting to savor every second with her. 

Wonyoung, still high on the pleasure flooding her senses, could barely think straight, but she knew what she wanted. “Finish inside me…” she whispered, her voice barely more than a breathless plea. “Give everything to me… Yujin, I want all of you.” 

Her words sent Yujin into a frenzy. His eyes met hers for a brief moment, full of love and lust, before he gave in completely. He groaned, low and deep, his body tensing as his control finally broke. He thrust into her one last time, his body shaking as he released inside her, his hips bucking in desperate motions as he filled her with everything he had. His breath was ragged and hot against her skin, his groans muffled by her neck as he clung to her. 

The intensity of the moment left them both breathless, and Yujin collapsed onto her, his chest heaving as he tried to catch his breath. He buried his face in the crook of her neck, still feeling the warmth of their connection. His heart pounded in his chest, and his arms wrapped around her, holding her close as they both came down from the high of their lovemaking. 

“I love you,” Yujin whispered softly against her skin, his voice thick with emotion. He pressed gentle kisses to her neck, his lips lingering as if he couldn’t bear to pull away. 

Wonyoung smiled, her hands slowly running through his hair as she held him close. Her heart swelled with warmth, and her chest still fluttered from the intensity of their shared moment. “I love you too,” she whispered back, her voice filled with tenderness as she gazed at him, their faces only inches apart. 

She brought her hands up to cradle his face, guiding him down to meet her lips in a soft, lingering kiss. It wasn’t like the heated kisses from earlier — it was sweet, filled with the depth of their love, a silent promise in the way their lips pressed together. She could feel the steady beat of Yujin’s heart against her own, and the closeness made her feel safe, cherished. 

They lay there together, tangled in the sheets, their bodies still pressed together as if they couldn’t bear to be apart. The room was quiet now, except for the soft sound of their breathing and the occasional rustle of the blankets. The flickering candlelight cast a warm glow over their skin, adding a sense of tranquility to the intimate moment. 

Yujin’s hand found Wonyoung’s, their fingers intertwining as he lay beside her, their connection unspoken yet strong. He lifted her hand to his lips, kissing her knuckles gently. “You’re everything to me,” he murmured, his eyes soft as he gazed at her. 

Wonyoung felt her heart swell, the sincerity in his words washing over her like a wave of warmth. She shifted closer to him, resting her head on his chest, listening to the steady rhythm of his heartbeat. She couldn’t imagine her life without him. 

As she lay there, listening to the sound of Yujin’s breathing slowing down, her mind drifted. This night had been more than just about passion. It was about them — the love they shared, the promise he made. Her heart fluttered at the thought of his promise ring, her fingers absentmindedly tracing the small diamond on her hand. This wasn’t an engagement ring, but it was enough for now. It was a promise, a testament to their love and his devotion to her. 

She smiled softly as Yujin’s breathing deepened, signaling that he had fallen asleep. Wonyoung, still nestled in his arms, kissed his chest softly, her lips lingering there as she whispered, “If you had proposed tonight, I would’ve said yes in a heartbeat. I would marry you tomorrow if you asked.” Her heart felt full, overwhelmed with how deeply she loved him. 

Wonyoung lay quietly beside Yujin, the room bathed in the soft glow of the night. Her fingers absentmindedly traced small patterns on his chest, her mind swirling with thoughts that were hard to ignore. She could still feel the lingering warmth of his embrace, but her thoughts drifted to the future, to the year they would spend apart. The idea of being away from him for so long made her heart ache in ways she didn’t expect. 

As the silence stretched between them, she found herself whispering into the quiet, "Maybe it wasn’t such a bad idea after all… getting married. Just the two of us." Her voice was soft, barely audible, as though she was speaking more to herself than to him. "But is it even possible?" 

She sighed, her heart heavy with uncertainty. As much as the thought of marrying Yujin filled her with warmth, she couldn’t help but feel conflicted. "I don’t want to get married while we’re still paying off debts. I don’t want you to feel trapped in a marriage that’s already full of problems." Her voice wavered, filled with concern for their future. She didn’t want Yujin to be burdened by the weight of their circumstances, especially when they still had so much ahead of them. 

Yujin, half-asleep, shifted slightly, his arms tightening around her, pulling her closer as if he could sense the turmoil in her thoughts. He didn’t say anything, but his steady breathing and warm presence offered her some comfort, even as her mind raced with worries. 

"We’ll have to wait," she whispered, her voice tinged with both sadness and determination. "We have to be patient… and wait until everything is better." She knew it was the right decision — they couldn’t rush into marriage when there were so many uncertainties. But that didn’t make it any easier to accept. 

Lying there in Yujin’s arms, Wonyoung felt an emptiness begin to settle deep in her chest. The thought of spending a year apart from him, of waking up without him by her side, made her feel hollow. Her fingers stopped tracing patterns on his skin, and she pressed herself closer to him, as if that would somehow keep him with her. 

Her heart ached as she imagined their bed without him, the loneliness that would come with his absence. She had never felt this kind of longing before — the kind that made her want to hold onto him and never let go. The thought of a year without Yujin, without his laughter, his touch, his presence, made her chest tighten painfully. 

"How am I supposed to do this without you?" she whispered into the quiet, her voice breaking slightly. She buried her face in the crook of his neck, trying to hold back the tears that threatened to fall. "I already feel so empty… and you’re still here." 

The thought of him leaving, of watching him walk through the airport gates, felt unbearable. She loved him so much, and the idea of being apart for so long terrified her. Even now, lying in his arms, she couldn’t shake the feeling of loss that was already creeping in. 

***

The bustling sounds of the airport faded into the background as Yujin and Wonyoung stood together, their hands intertwined, hearts heavy with the weight of the impending separation. Yujin had just checked in, and the moment they had both been dreading was finally here. 

Wonyoung’s eyes shimmered with unshed tears as she stared up at him, her lips trembling as she fought to keep her composure. Yujin wasn’t faring much better — his own eyes were misty, the pain of leaving her evident in the way his grip on her hands tightened. They stood there, frozen in time, trying to hold on to these last few moments before everything changed. 

“I don’t want you to go,” Wonyoung whispered, her voice cracking as she pressed herself into his chest, her arms wrapping tightly around his waist. She buried her face into him, her tears finally escaping and dampening his shirt. The scent of him, familiar and comforting, surrounded her, but the knowledge that he would be gone soon made her heart ache. 

Yujin held her even tighter, as if he could somehow anchor her pain with his presence. He kissed the top of her head, his lips lingering there, soft and gentle. “I’ll fly back here after a year, I promise,” he said quietly, his voice thick with emotion. “Just one year, and we’ll be together again.” 

Wonyoung nodded against his chest, but her hug didn’t loosen. She held him as if letting go would mean losing him forever. The tears were falling freely now, her body shaking with quiet sobs, and Yujin felt his heart breaking as he looked down at her. He wished he could stay, but he knew this was something they had to endure. He needs to go back to work. For her.

“I’ll miss you every single day,” Yujin murmured, his thumb brushing the back of her hand soothingly. He gently pulled back, just enough to look into her eyes. She was teary-eyed, her cheeks stained with tears, but to him, she had never looked more beautiful. He cupped her face in his hands, wiping her tears away with his thumbs, his gaze soft but full of love. 

“I’ll miss you too,” Wonyoung managed to say, her voice small and choked with emotion. She looked at him, her lips quivering as more tears threatened to spill. “So much.” 

Yujin leaned down and kissed her forehead again. Then he kissed her lips — sweetly, tenderly, like a last taste of the love they were holding onto. Their lips moved slowly, savoring each other in the crowded airport, the world around them fading away as they shared that final moment. 

When they pulled away, Yujin rested his forehead against hers, their breaths mingling in the small space between them. “One year,” he whispered again, as if reminding both of them. “We’ll get through this. I’ll come back to you.” 

With one last, tight hug, Wonyoung buried her face in his chest again, her arms squeezing him as if she could somehow hold onto him forever. Yujin’s hands gently rubbed her back, his own emotions threatening to spill over, but he kept himself steady for her. He kissed the top of her head one last time, breathing in the scent of her hair, memorizing the feel of her in his arms. 

Finally, after what felt like both a lifetime and a fleeting second, Yujin slowly pulled away. Their fingers lingered, not wanting to let go, until finally, they did. Wonyoung stood there, her heart heavy as she watched him turn to leave, her tears blurring her vision as the distance between them grew with every step he took. 

As Yujin walked further inside the airport, he couldn’t resist the urge to hear her voice one more time. Pulling out his phone, he quickly dialed Wonyoung’s number. Within seconds, the call connected, and Wonyoung's soft sobs filled his ears. She was still standing there, watching him go, her tears flowing uncontrollably as they looked at each other from a distance. 

“Eat a lot, okay?” Yujin said, his voice gentle but strained, trying to keep himself from breaking down as he saw her tears. 

Wonyoung nodded, even though he couldn’t see it clearly from where he was. “Yes… I will,” she whispered, her voice barely audible as the tears continued to fall. “You too, okay? Eat a lot.” 

“I will,” Yujin promised, trying to keep his tone steady for her. “And sleep well, alright?” 

Wonyoung nodded again, but this time her response came with more emotion, her voice shaking. “Yes…” She could feel the weight of the separation growing heavier with every word they exchanged. 

“Don’t worry about your parents, or the restaurant, or our apartment,” Yujin continued. “I’ll take care of it all, I promise. You don’t need to worry about anything.” 

“Y-Yes,” Wonyoung responded again, her voice cracking as the flood of emotions surged inside her. Her heart felt like it was being torn apart, the reality of him leaving sinking in even deeper now. 

“I love you, honey,” Yujin said softly, his eyes filled with love and longing even though they were separated by the bustling terminal. His words carried all the affection and comfort he wanted to give her, even from afar. 

“I love you too,” Wonyoung replied, her voice thick with tears. Her heart ached as she clutched the phone tightly, wishing she could hold him just one more time. “Please… update me when you arrive, okay? Let me know you’re safe.” 

“I will,” Yujin answered softly.

With one last lingering look, Yujin ended the call and disappeared into the airport, leaving Wonyoung standing there, tears streaming down her face as she watched him go. 

Chapter Text

When Wonyoung finally stepped through the door of their apartment, the silence hit her like a wave. The space felt unfamiliar, too quiet, too still, as if the warmth Yujin had brought into their lives had evaporated the moment he left. Her phone in her hand, his last message still on the screen. 

“Plane’s about to take off, honey. I love you.” 

She read it over and over, each time the words hitting her heart like a hammer. Her chest tightened, the weight of their separation crashing down in full force. Wonyoung collapsed onto their bed, face buried in the pillow, her tears flowing freely now that there was no one around to comfort her. The reality of how empty the apartment felt without him became even clearer. No more Yujin to pick her up after work with that mischievous smile, no more playful banter filling the rooms, no more lazy mornings where they cuddled together. 

Yujin had been there with her at the beginning of her New York journey. At first, his presence had been a comfort, an anchor in an unfamiliar place. He helped her settle in, made her feel like the move wasn't so overwhelming. They explored the city together, shared meals, and he would always make her laugh when she felt the weight of work pressing down on her. But now, with him gone, it felt like he had taken a part of her with him. The apartment now seemed so empty. There was this gaping hole, this constant reminder of his absence, as if New York wasn’t the same without him. 

Wonyoung sighed, thinking back to how different it might have been if she had come alone. Maybe, if she had arrived in New York by herself, she wouldn’t have felt this hollow emptiness. Her mind would have automatically adjusted to the idea that Yujin wasn’t here, that this part of her life was meant to be experienced solo. Maybe she would have been stronger, more independent, able to focus solely on her work and not constantly thinking of what was missing. 

But now, with Yujin having been there, his presence still lingered in the corners of her mind, making it harder to move forward without feeling like something — someone — was missing. She wondered if she would ever get used to being without him in this city that once felt like a new beginning, but now felt like a reminder of everything she didn’t have. 

Her sobs grew louder as the loneliness seeped into every corner of her being. She squeezed her pillow, hoping the tears would stop, but they didn’t. Coming home was going to be so different now. It wasn’t just the emptiness — it was the small things, too. The way Yujin would always be there to greet her with open arms, or how he’d joke about what they should eat for dinner. She already missed it all. 

Wanting to distract herself, she decided to clean. Maybe if the house was spotless, she wouldn’t feel so lost. She started with the kitchen, wiping down the counters, then the living room, tidying up the blankets they used the night before. But her mind kept wandering back to him — his laugh, his scent, the sound of his voice in the morning. It was unbearable. 

Finally, as she made her way to their bedroom, her eyes caught something new on the bedside table. There was a small framed photo, one she hadn’t noticed before. Wonyoung frowned, stepping closer to it. It hadn’t been there this morning, she was sure of it. 

Her breath hitched as she reached for the frame. It was a picture of the two of them, taken during one of their weekend dates at the park. Yujin had his arms wrapped around her from behind, grinning into the camera while she smiled, her eyes closed in pure happiness. The moment was perfect, full of love — everything she cherished about them. Her fingers trembled as she picked up the frame, her tears returning. But it wasn’t just the picture that made her cry harder. When she turned it over, there was a message written in marker on the back. Yujin’s familiar handwriting was there, messy but heartfelt, and it read, “I love you.” 

Wonyoung’s heart shattered all over again. She sobbed, clutching the frame tightly to her chest as if it could somehow bring him back to her. He must have placed it there before they left for the airport, knowing she’d find it once he was gone. Always thoughtful, always thinking ahead for her. 

The tears wouldn’t stop now. She sat on the edge of the bed, holding the frame close as the emptiness settled in deeper. It hurt so much more than she had imagined. The apartment felt so cold, so foreign without Yujin there to fill it with his love. 

She curled up in the sheets, clutching the photo to her chest. The smell of Yujin lingered on the pillow, bringing her some comfort even though it made her cry even harder. A year without him seemed unbearable, and she wasn’t sure how she’d manage, but for now, all she could do was hold onto that they’d be together again. 

***

Yujin leaned back against the couch, his phone still warm in his hand after the video call with Wonyoung. Her face lingered in his mind, the sound of her voice still echoing in his ears. She had told him to rest, her gentle voice soothing his exhaustion from the long flight, but now that he was finally back in their apartment — his apartment, for now — it didn’t feel like home. 

He looked around, taking in the familiar surroundings, but everything seemed off. For the past five years, this space had been theirs, not just a place to live but the backdrop to all their moments together. It was here that they had grown up, matured, and learned how to be adults side by side. He could still remember the first day Wonyoung stayed the night and when she officially moved in, full of excitement and promise, their future spread out before them like an open road. But now, coming back without her felt empty, hollow, as if the soul of the place was missing. 

His eyes landed on the small kitchen where they had shared countless meals. He could still see Wonyoung standing there, laughing at one of his bad jokes, or trying to teach him how to cook something more sophisticated than fried food. She had always been the organized one, planning ahead, making sure they didn’t fall apart even when things got tough. And now… she wasn’t here. The absence was a gaping hole, one that made the apartment feel too quiet, too large for just him. 

Yujin sighed, his heart heavy as he looked around the living room. It was the same place where they used to spend their lazy weekends — her head resting on his lap as they watched movies, or those late nights when they would stay up talking about their dreams, their future, their fears. All of it had happened here, in this apartment, the one that had witnessed them go from carefree college students to working adults. 

But without her, it didn’t feel like a home anymore. It was just a space, a shell of what it used to be. Yujin rubbed his eyes, the exhaustion from the flight creeping back in, but it wasn’t just physical. It was emotional, too. He was tired in a way he hadn’t expected. He missed her — God, how he missed her. Even though he had just spoken to her, it wasn’t the same. Seeing her through a screen was nothing compared to having her here, next to him, where she belonged. 

He stood up, wandering over to the small bookshelf they had bought together. His fingers brushed over the spines of her books, each one holding a memory of late-night study sessions or quiet evenings when they would read together in comfortable silence. There was a photo tucked between two books, and he pulled it out, staring at the picture of them from his college graduation. They were both grinning, arms wrapped around each other, faces full of joy and hope. That day felt like a lifetime ago now. 

Yujin let out a deep breath, his chest aching. He had relied on her so much — more than he even realized until now. And now, without her, he felt adrift, like he was trying to navigate through life without his compass. 

He moved to their bedroom, his steps slow and heavy. The bed was neatly made, just as they had left it before he flew out, but it felt so big now, too big for just one person. He could still smell her on the pillows, the faint scent of her shampoo lingering in the air, and it hit him all over again — how much he missed her. Her laugh, her voice, the way she’d nag him about leaving his shoes on the floor, or how she’d curl up next to him at night, her hand always finding his in the dark. 

The thought of spending the next year apart felt unbearable. A whole year without seeing her, without holding her, without feeling her warmth beside him. He knew they had made this decision together, and he was proud of her for taking the opportunity, but that didn’t make it any easier.

He closed his eyes, trying to remember the way her head fit perfectly against his chest when they lay in bed, or how her fingers would absentmindedly trace circles on his arm as they talked about their day. It was all these little things he missed the most, the things that made their life together feel complete. 

With a sigh, Yujin lay back on the bed, his arm resting over his eyes. The room was quiet, too quiet without her soft breathing beside him. He pulled his phone out of his pocket, scrolling through their messages, rereading her words, the ones she had sent her after they ended the call.

“Don’t forget to rest, okay? I love you.” 

His heart squeezed at the sight of those words. He loved her so much, it hurt. The thought of spending the next year without her felt like a mountain he wasn’t sure he could climb, but he knew he had to. 

Yujin stared up at the ceiling, his hand tightening around the phone. He could get through this. They could get through this. But God, did he miss her already. 

***

The days rolled by, and the time difference between Seoul and New York quickly became one of the hardest obstacles Yujin and Wonyoung had to face. With a 14-hour gap, their schedules rarely aligned, but they had promised to make it work. No matter how busy or exhausted they were, they made a pact — to be present for each other, to stay connected in whatever way possible. Updating each other as much as they could.

Whenever one of them was at the apartment, whether it was Wonyoung in New York or Yujin in Seoul, they would always turn on the video call. It didn’t matter if they were cooking, eating, or even in the shower — the point was to feel each other’s presence, to create the illusion that they were still living together despite being oceans apart. The video calls became their lifeline, a way to bridge the distance and make it feel like they were never really alone. 

At first, it felt strange, this new routine. The calls were sometimes filled with mundane activities — Wonyoung brushing her hair while Yujin was eating breakfast, or Yujin working on his laptop while Wonyoung was getting ready for bed. But those small, everyday moments became precious, a way to hold on to the normalcy they had shared when they were living together. It wasn’t about the grand gestures anymore; it was about the little things, the moments they used to take for granted. 

Sometimes, the silence would stretch between them, but it wasn’t uncomfortable. It was comforting, in a way, knowing that they didn’t always have to fill the space with words. Just having the other person on the screen was enough. There were times when Wonyoung would place her phone on the bathroom counter, the steam from her shower fogging up the camera as Yujin sat on the couch, watching TV or working on his beats. And there were times when Yujin would take his phone into the kitchen while he made a simple meal, chatting with her about his day as if she were standing right next to him. 

The time difference made it difficult to plan things. Often, Wonyoung would wake up just as Yujin was finishing his workday, and they had to carefully navigate their schedules to find moments when they could talk. But they made it a priority — each other. Weekends became sacred, where they could carve out more time to just be together, even if it was through a screen. 

Both of them started to turn down invitations from friends, afraid that if they went out, they would miss the chance to catch each other online. Their social lives shrank as they became more focused on their time together. Yujin had to say no to his friends’ spontaneous plans, knowing that the only time Wonyoung would be free was late at night in Seoul, which was early morning in New York. Wonyoung, too, found herself declining invitations from colleagues, not wanting to miss the chance to see Yujin’s face before she went to bed. 

Their relationship, in this way, became even more intense. They cherished the moments they could talk, even if it was just a few minutes between meetings or during Yujin’s lunch break. When Wonyoung finished work, she would rush back to her apartment, not wanting to waste a single second away from their calls. She’d kick off her shoes, throw her bag on the couch, and immediately pull out her phone to see if Yujin was online. He would do the same — checking his phone throughout the day, waiting for the moment he could see her name pop up on the screen. 

Some nights, when Wonyoung was particularly tired from her demanding job, she’d fall asleep with the video call still on, her phone propped up on the pillow beside her. Yujin would watch her, smiling softly as he saw her breathing even out, her face soft in sleep. It wasn’t the same as holding her, but seeing her there, peaceful and resting, gave him a sense of calm. In those moments, it felt like the distance wasn’t so bad — like they could really make it through this, no matter how long it took. 

And on days when Yujin had a tough time at work, Wonyoung would be there for him. Even if they couldn’t talk much, just knowing she was on the other side of the screen made the apartment feel less empty. She’d listen to him vent about his clients or his music projects while she cooked dinner, offering advice or just being a listening ear. 

It wasn’t easy. The longing was always there, just beneath the surface. There were days when the distance felt unbearable, when the ache of not being able to touch each other grew too heavy. Yujin would lie in bed at night, staring at the ceiling, wishing more than anything that he could reach across the ocean and hold her in his arms. Wonyoung would sometimes cry quietly after they hung up, the silence of her apartment closing in on her, missing the comfort of having him nearby. 

But despite the challenges, they held on. They clung to their routine, to the promise they had made to each other — to be there, even when they couldn’t physically be there. The video calls became their anchor, a way to stay grounded in a world that felt constantly shifting. It wasn’t ideal, and it wasn’t easy, but it was enough. Enough to remind them that they were still each other’s home, no matter how far apart they were. 

And so the days passed, each one a little easier than the last. They found a rhythm, a way to keep each other close even when the distance threatened to pull them apart. Yujin and Wonyoung didn’t need grand declarations or constant reassurances; they knew. They knew that, no matter what, they were each other’s priority. And that was what mattered most. 

***

On their first monthsary being away, Wonyoung was busy at work, deep into the countless documents and cases on her desk, when a delivery man entered her office holding a beautiful bouquet of flowers. The room immediately filled with the soft fragrance of fresh roses, lilies, and baby's breath, wrapped in delicate white paper with a ribbon tied around it. Wonyoung's heart skipped a beat, her mind immediately going to Yujin. She couldn’t help but smile as she took the bouquet, noticing a small card nestled between the flowers. 

Opening the card, her smile widened as she read the message:

 "Happy monthsary, honey. I miss you every day, but I hope this brings a little piece of me to you. I’ll keep sending you small reminders of how much I love you, no matter the distance. Take care of yourself, and don’t work too hard. I’m always thinking of you." 

Tears welled up in her eyes, but they were happy tears. Yujin had kept his promise, just like he always did. He said he would make sure she never felt alone, and here he was, sending her a bouquet of flowers to brighten her day. It wasn’t just the flowers, though — they were a symbol of how much Yujin cared, how much he wanted to remind her of his love even though they were thousands of miles apart. 

A few minutes later, another delivery arrived — a small, beautifully decorated cake, just the perfect size for one. It was simple but thoughtful, and it warmed Wonyoung’s heart. She immediately took a picture of the flowers and the cake and sent them to Yujin with a message: 

"Thank you, honey. You don’t know how much this means to me. Happy monthsary. I love you so much." 

Yujin replied almost instantly, despite the time difference in Korea, with a playful text: 

"I’m glad you liked it. Just a little something to make sure you’re smiling today. Eat the cake but watch the sugar, okay? Don’t skip meals! I love you too!" 

Wonyoung smiled at her phone, feeling her heart fill with warmth. Later that day, after work, Wonyoung found herself reflecting on how much Yujin had done to make their situation work. He wasn’t just sending her flowers and cakes — he was handling everything back in Korea. She had trusted him completely with their finances. On the day she received her first paycheck from her law firm in New York, the first thing she did was deposit a large portion into their joint savings account. She knew Yujin would be responsible with it, handling the payments for their apartment, checking on her parents’ restaurant, and going to the bank himself to pay off the debt they still owed. 

She had always been careful with money, and now, more than ever, she was relying on Yujin’s sense of responsibility. She didn’t want to burden him with everything, but she also knew he was more than capable of handling it. They had talked about their plans — how they would slowly chip away at the debt her father had left them with, how Yujin would take care of the apartment payments while she focused on her career in New York. It wasn’t ideal, but it was their plan, and Wonyoung trusted Yujin to make it work. 

***

It started with a teasing grin from Yujin on the screen, his face filling the video call. "You’re wearing that again?" he teased, noticing the oversized college hoodie Wonyoung had on, the same one she always wore during late-night study sessions in school. 

Wonyoung giggled, pulling the hoodie up dramatically over her head. "What’s wrong with my comfort clothes? I like it." She rolled her eyes playfully. "Besides, you gave me this, remember?" She tugged at the hood, making a funny face. 

Yujin laughed, his deep chuckle making her heart flutter, even through the phone. "Yeah, I remember. But it’s practically swallowing you whole." He leaned closer to the camera, his voice dropping a bit. "What’re you wearing underneath?" 

She raised an eyebrow, catching on to his tone. "Why do you want to know?" she asked, her lips quirking in a playful smirk. 

He bit his lip, eyes narrowing. "Come on, let me see." His voice held that familiar mischievous note, the one that usually meant trouble, but the kind Wonyoung secretly loved. "You miss me, right?" 

Wonyoung’s heart raced, her fingers playing with the edge of her hoodie. "Maybe I do," she said coyly, her cheeks flushing a little. She had missed him — so much. She looked at him through the screen, the distance feeling more pronounced than ever, even though they were trying to have fun. 

"Prove it," Yujin said, leaning back in his chair, his eyes never leaving hers. There was a playful glint in them, but the intensity was growing. "Show me what I’m missing." 

Wonyoung chuckled, biting her lower lip. She stood up a little, backing away from the camera so Yujin could get a better view. Slowly, she peeled off the hoodie, revealing a fitted tank top underneath that clung to her curves. "This what you wanted?" she asked, striking a playful pose. 

Yujin let out a low whistle, grinning from ear to ear. "Better. But I think you can do better than that." His voice was deeper now, more serious, but the playful edge was still there. 

Wonyoung rolled her eyes again, but her body was heating up. This wasn’t the first time they’d teased each other like this, but something about tonight felt different. There was a deeper sense of longing, a need that went beyond the screen. She slowly tugged at the hem of her tank top, lifting it up just enough to tease him, showing a sliver of her bare stomach. 

Yujin’s eyes darkened with desire. "Wonyoung..." His voice was low, almost a growl. "You’re killing me here." 

"You asked for it," she teased back, her fingers pausing at the edge of her tank top before pulling it off completely, revealing the simple lace bralette underneath. 

Yujin’s breath hitched, his eyes locked on the screen as if trying to memorize every inch of her. "Damn, I miss you," he said, his tone growing more serious, the playfulness giving way to raw emotion. "You’re so beautiful, honey."

Wonyoung felt her heart swell at his words. "I miss you too," she whispered, sitting back down, her face closer to the screen now. Her fingers traced the lace of her bralette absently. "It’s not the same without you here." 

"I know," Yujin murmured, his eyes glued to the movement of her fingers. "But we can make it feel like I’m there." His voice had dropped to a husky whisper. "Take off the rest. Slowly." 

Her breath caught at his words, her pulse quickening. She met his gaze on the screen. Slowly, she stood up again and slipped off her bralette, her hands shaking just a little as she felt the intensity of Yujin’s eyes on her. A mischievous glint danced in her eyes, knowing full well what kind of reaction she’d get. Yujin, sitting in his dimly lit room, inhaled sharply, his breath catching in his throat. Without hesitation, he followed her lead, tugging off his own shirt, leaving them both vulnerable in the soft glow of their video call. 

Wonyoung laughed softly, teasing him with a playful look. "You miss these?" she asked with a smirk, cupping her breasts lightly, her touch deliberate yet delicate, as if she were trying to torment him from a distance. 

Yujin’s eyes darkened with desire, his voice dropping as he let out a husky, “I miss sucking them.” The rawness in his tone made Wonyoung shiver, and she felt her heart race as she smiled teasingly at him. 

"Oh yeah?" she said, fingers tracing over her skin, deliberately slow. She cupped her breasts and gently played with her nipples, her touch light but suggestive as she teased him through the screen. “You really miss this, huh?” 

Yujin groaned softly, leaning closer to his phone, as if willing himself to be closer to her. “You have no idea,” he muttered, eyes glued to her movements, every second apart making him crave her even more. “It’s torture being this far away. Take everything off.” 

Wonyoung’s heart skipped a beat. The thrill of doing something so new, something they had never done before, sent a rush of excitement through her. A mischievous smile played on her lips as she teased him a little, making him wait for just a moment longer. Slowly, she stood up from her bed, giving him a playful look as her hands hovered over the waistband of her shorts. Yujin leaned closer to his phone, his gaze locked onto her, eager and filled with anticipation. 

She slipped out of her shorts first, then her underwear, letting them drop to the floor one by one. Her movements were slow, deliberate, drawing out the moment. She could hear Yujin breathing heavily on the other end, and knowing how much he was watching, hanging onto every motion she made, thrilled her even more. 

“There,” she said softly, her voice light, almost teasing. “Happy now?” 

Yujin was quiet for a second, his eyes dark and full of lust as he took her in through the screen. “More than happy,” he murmured, his gaze never leaving her. His tone was serious now, low and intense, as if he couldn’t believe how much he wanted her, even from so far away. 

Wonyoung climbed back onto the bed, her movements slow and deliberate. The camera now focused on her upper body — her flushed face and bare chest visible on the screen. Her eyes flickered with a mixture of excitement and nervousness, her lips curving into a soft smile as she settled herself against the pillows. She could feel Yujin’s gaze burning through the screen, watching her every move. 

“Lower the camera.”

Her heart raced at his words, her fingers gripping the edge of her phone tighter. There was a pause as Wonyoung’s face flushed a deeper shade of pink, a mixture of thrill and embarrassment coursing through her. She bit her lip, considering the request, feeling the heat between them even through the distance. 

Wonyoung chuckled softly, looking directly into the camera. “You’re so bad, Yujin,” she teased, her voice teasing, though the excitement in her eyes gave her away. She hadn’t expected him to say something so bold, but it stirred something inside her. 

Yujin grinned, leaning closer to his screen. “Come on, honey. I know you want to.” His voice was coaxing, filled with playful affection. He knew she liked to tease him, but this time, he wanted to push their boundaries just a little more. 

Wonyoung hesitated for a second, then lowered the phone slightly, but kept the focus just on her body and face, teasing him in return. “Is this what you meant?” she asked, her voice dripping with playful innocence, but her eyes told a different story. 

Yujin groaned. “You know what I meant, Wonyoung,” he said, unable to hide his grin, his desire evident. 

Wonyoung’s breath hitched as she hesitated for a second, her heart pounding widly. The way Yujin’s darkened gaze burned through the screen sent a deep thrill down her spine. Slowly, she tilted her phone even lower, lowering the camera until it captured her bare, sensitive pussy.

Yujin sucked in sharp breath, his jaw clenching as his eyes drank in the sight of her. “Fuck,” he groaned. “Spread your legs for me.”

A rush of heat pooled in her belly at his words. Biting her lip, she shifted on the bed, parting her thighs just enough to tease him, letting him see how wet she was for him.

“Wider,” Yujin rasped.

Wonyoung obeyed, slowly spreading her legs further, her fingers hesitantly trailing down her stomach. 

“God, I wish I was there,” he muttered, running a hand through his hair, his breathing uneven. “You have no idea what you’re doing to me right now. Touch yourself for me.”

Wonyoung, still breathless from the intensity of his gaze, smirked slightly. “Only if you do it too,” she teased, her voice sultry and daring.

Yujin let out a quiet chuckle before reaching down. His free hand tugging his boxers down. The moment he freed himself, his cock stood hard and aching, the sight making Wonyoung’s breath hitch.

She swallowed, mesmerized by the way his hand wrapped around himself, stroking slowly from base to tip. Her thighs instinctively pressed together at the visual, but Yujin caught it instantly.

“Don’t hide it from me,” he murmured. “Spread it for me. Let me see you.”

Heat flushed through her body as she obeyed, parting her legs once more and bringing her fingers down, spreading her folds just as he told her to.

Yujin groaned at the sight. “Fuck, you’re so wet… I wish I could taste you.”

Her fingers twitched at the thought, her body pulsing with need. “Tell me what to do.”

Yujin’s stroke grew firmer as he watched her through the screen, his voice deep and commanding. “Start slow. Touch yourself the way I do.”

And Wonyoung, completely lost in him, did exactly as he said. Her fingers started moving, rubbing slow circles over her clit. She kept the phone positioned so Yujin could see everything - the way her fingers glided over her slick folds, how wet she was for him. Her legs remained spread just like he wanted, exposing every intimate detail to his hungry gaze.

Yujin groaned deeply, his grip tightening around his cock as he stroked himself. “That’s it, honey. Just like that. You’re so fucking hot.” His breaths coming heavier as he watched her. “Use your other hand. Play with your nipples for me.”

Wonyoung obeyed, her free hand trailing up to cup her breast, her fingers rolling over the sensitive nipple. The sensation made her moan softly, her body responding to the dual stimulation.

“God, I wish I was there…” Yujin muttered. “I’d have you laid out on our bed, legs wide open, just like that… I’d spread you with my fingers and taste every inch of you.”

His words sent a pulse of heat straight to her core. Wonyoung bit her lip, her fingers pressing harder against her clit as she lost herself in his voice.

“You love showing me how wet you are? Does it feel good, honey?”

“Yes,” she gasped, her hips arching slightly, chasing more friction.

Yujin’s stroke grew faster. “I want you to slide your fingers now. Fuck yourself for me. Imagine it’s me.”

Wonyoung’s breath hitched as she obeyed, sliding two fingers inside her dripping entrance, just as Yujin told her to. Her walls clenched around her fingers, a soft whimper escaping her lips as she slowly pumped them in and out.

“Fuck… that’s it, Wonyoung,” Yujin groaned. His hand moved faster around his cock, stroking in sync with her motions. His eyes never left the screen, watching the way her fingers disappearing into her soaked core, how her hips twitched with every movement.

Wonyoung moaned louder, completely lost in the pleasure, her body craving Yujin’s touch even through the screen. “Yujin… I need you,” she gasped, her voice desperate.

Yujin let out a sharp breath. “I know, honey. Fuck, I need you too. Imagine it’s me, not your fingers. Imagine it’s my cock stretching you open, fucking you deep just like you love.”

Wonyoung’s moans turned into needy cries, her body trembling as she lost herself completely in the heat of the moment. She arched her back, pleasure consuming her.

“Fuck, you’re so beautiful. So fucking sexy. Come with me.”

His words sent her over the edge. With a sharp cry, Wonyoung’s body tensed as pleasure crashed over her, her fingers buried deep inside her as she came hard, moaning Yujin’s name.

Yujin groaned loudly in response, his own release following hers as he stroked himself through it, spilling over his stomach with a deep, shuddering breath. “Damn… Wonyoung.”

They continued, both of them lost in the moment, trying to bridge the distance with every touch, every whispered word. It was hot, undeniably, but it wasn’t just about the pleasure. It was about being together, about trying to hold onto something real, even when all they had was a screen between them. 

Breathless and trembling, Wonyoung slowly pulled her fingers out, her body still pulsing. She glanced at the screen, seeing Yujin panting.

A small, satisfied smile curled on her lips. “That was intense.”

“You tell me.”

Wonyoung collapsed back on the bed when they finally reached their climax together, it was bittersweet. There was an emptiness that followed, a stark reminder that Yujin wasn’t really there. 

On the other end, Yujin was breathing hard, but he was staring at the screen with a pained expression. "I wish I could hold you right now," he said softly, his voice heavy with emotion. 

"Me too. It’s not the same." 

"It’s never going to be the same," Yujin admitted. "But we’ll get through this, right?" 

"Yeah," she whispered, though there was a lump in her throat. She wiped at her eyes and smiled at him, trying to stay positive.  

But as she ended the call that night and stared at the empty bed beside her, the ache of missing him was almost unbearable. 

***

The distance between Yujin and Wonyoung made their intimacy feel forced, almost mechanical at times. They tried their best to keep the passion alive through phone sex, sending each other suggestive photos, or even staying on video calls to share intimate moments. The excitement would build up as they talked each other through it, breathing heavy into the phone, both of them working to recreate the connection they once had in person. 

On some nights, it was undeniably hot — Yujin’s low voice in her ear, telling her what he wanted to do, and Wonyoung following along, her breath hitching as she responded to him. The climax would come for both of them, together, a wave of relief crashing over them as they moaned through the phone, trying to bridge the physical gap with words and sounds. 

But it was effort. A constant reminder that no matter how satisfying those moments felt, it wasn’t enough. After the initial rush faded, the empty space between them felt bigger. They longed for skin-to-skin contact, the warmth of each other’s bodies, and the way they fit perfectly in each other’s arms. The absence of real touch hung heavy in the air, leaving them both feeling hollow once the calls ended. 

Wonyoung often found herself staring at her phone afterward, wishing she could reach through the screen to pull Yujin close. She missed Yujin’s hands on her, his lips against her neck, the comforting weight of him next to her as they drifted off to sleep. No matter how many photos or calls they shared, nothing could replace the feeling of his skin against hers. 

Yujin, lying in their shared apartment alone, missed the familiar sensation of her body beside him, the softness of her skin, and the feeling of her heartbeat against his chest. He wanted to be there with her, to touch her, to hold her, not just watch her through a screen. He longed for the warmth of her body curled up next to him in bed, the sound of her soft breathing when she was asleep. Coming back to their apartment after work felt lonelier each day. The bed was too big, too empty, and every time he touched his pillow, he was reminded of how much he missed her. It was harder than either of them expected, and no amount of digital intimacy could replace the real thing. 

***

Wonyoung sat at her desk, her eyes heavy with fatigue as the bright glow of the computer screen illuminated her tired face. Her supervisor had just handed her another project — a tight deadline, more responsibilities to handle on her own. It had been happening for weeks now. The workload was piling up, and with each new assignment, Wonyoung felt the pressure mounting. She barely had time to think about anything else. 

It was late at night, almost everyone else had left the office, but she stayed, the click of her keyboard the only sound filling the empty room. She was focused, but the exhaustion weighed heavily on her. Her days were growing longer, often stretching into the early hours of the morning. By the time she would get home, she could barely keep her eyes open, let alone muster the energy for a proper video call with Yujin. 

Tonight was one of those nights. 

She glanced at the time, noticing how late it was. Sighing, she quickly texted Yujin, apologizing for another late night. Her heart ached knowing he was waiting for her. He always waited, no matter how late it was. With a quick glance around the empty office, she wrapped up what she could, packed her bag, and headed home, knowing that by the time she made it back to her apartment, Yujin would already be there waiting on the other end of the screen. 

As she entered her apartment, she could hear her phone ringing — Yujin’s familiar tone. She smiled faintly, answering it immediately. 

“Hey,” she said, her voice laced with exhaustion. 

“Hey, you look tired,” Yujin said, his face lighting up her phone screen. “Late night again?” 

Wonyoung nodded, sitting down on her bed. “Yeah, just a lot to do. I’m so sorry… I know I’ve been late every night.” 

“It’s okay,” Yujin reassured her. “Just don’t overwork yourself, okay? You need to rest too.” 

But Wonyoung couldn’t help it. The expectations at work were high, and she didn’t want to fall behind. She didn’t want to let anyone down. She smiled tiredly at Yujin, nodding again as if agreeing, but inside, she knew tomorrow would be another long day. 

As they talked, Yujin could see the way her eyelids drooped, her responses becoming shorter, her words quieter. There were moments when her head would tilt, as though she might drift off to sleep mid-conversation, and he would gently call her name to wake her up to go to the bed already. 

“Honey, you’re falling asleep, go to sleep, I’ll be fine,” he chuckled softly. 

Wonyoung opened her eyes wider, shaking her head. “No, I’m fine. I’m still listening.” 

But Yujin could tell. Every night, their video calls were growing shorter. She was exhausted, stretched thin by her work. And it wasn’t just the calls — they were losing their playful moments, the jokes and laughter they once shared during the late hours. Now, it was Wonyoung on one end, tired and quiet, and Yujin on the other, trying his best to keep the conversation alive. 

After they hung up that night, Yujin sat on the edge of his bed, staring at the blank screen of his phone. The silence in his apartment was deafening. With Wonyoung being so busy, their time together had become more fragmented. Even though they promised to stay connected.

Yujin tried to brush it off, telling himself it was just temporary, that they’d get through it. But the truth was, he missed her — missed how things used to be. He missed their long conversations, the laughter, even if it was just through a screen. Now, every night felt lonelier, and as much as he wanted to be patient and supportive, the emptiness gnawed at him. 

Sitting in the dim light of his room, Yujin made a decision. He couldn’t just sit here and wait for things to get better. He needed to keep himself busy, to do something that would help them both. So, he started searching for a second job. It wasn’t just to fill the silence or distract him from how much he missed her, though that was part of it. More than that, he wanted to help with their debt, to speed up the process so they could get back to a place where they didn’t have to work so hard all the time. 

The next few days were spent searching online, looking through job listings, and sending out applications. Anything that could help ease the financial burden they were both shouldering. He figured if he could make more, they wouldn’t have to worry so much about the debt, things would get easier for Wonyoung too and she can come home faster.

But as the days passed, their video calls became shorter and shorter. Sometimes Wonyoung would fall asleep before they could even talk. Sometimes Yujin would miss her call, leaving him staring at a missed notification, feeling the weight of their separation even more. Each time, it felt like a small fracture in their connection, and though they both tried, the cracks were slowly forming. 

***

Wonyoung sat at her desk, staring at the pile of work in front of her, her head throbbing from the constant pressure. The deadlines, the projects, the expectations — everything felt overwhelming. She was never good at managing stress, and lately, it felt like the weight of the world was slowly crushing her. And without Yujin around, without the comfort of his voice or his reassuring presence, she was beginning to feel lost. 

Her phone buzzed on the desk beside her, and she glanced at the screen to see Yujin’s name lighting up. She smiled faintly at the thought of him, the person who used to lift her spirits even when everything else seemed like it was falling apart. But lately, even his words didn’t seem to soothe her as they once had. The distance between them, both physical and emotional, was starting to feel unbearable. 

She answered the call, trying to keep her voice steady. “Hey,” she said softly, even though she could already feel the weight of exhaustion in her chest. 

“Hey, honey,” Yujin replied, his voice full of warmth and concern. “How was your day?” 

Wonyoung paused for a moment, trying to figure out how to answer. She didn’t want to burden him, didn’t want him to worry. But the truth was, her day had been terrible. She had spent hours at the office, dealing with project after project, drowning in paperwork and stress. She was running on empty, but still, she forced a smile and said, “It was okay. Just... busy.” 

“Busy? You sound tired,” Yujin said, his voice soft, like he could tell something was off. “Are you getting enough rest?”

She sighed, pressing a hand to her forehead. “I’m fine,” she said quickly, but even she knew she was lying. She wasn’t fine. She hadn’t been fine for a while now. Every day felt like it was blending into the next, each one more exhausting than the last. And the thought of going to bed just to wake up and do it all over again filled her with dread. 

“You sound like you’re pushing yourself too hard, honey,” Yujin said, his tone more serious now. “You know you can talk to me about anything, right? I’m always here for you.”

But even his words, comforting as they were, didn’t seem to reach her anymore. She missed his presence. She missed how he would hold her after a long day, how his arms would make everything feel okay, even if just for a moment. Now, it felt like all she had were his words on a screen, his voice through the phone. It wasn’t enough. 

“I know,” she said. “I just... I just need to get through this. I’ll be fine.” 

Yujin hesitated, clearly sensing that something was wrong. “Honey, you’re really working hard. I can tell. But don’t burn yourself out. You’re not alone in this, okay? We’ll figure it out together.” 

She closed her eyes, a wave of guilt washing over her. He was working so hard too, trying to make everything work, trying to help her with the debt and the restaurant, and here she was, feeling like she was letting him down. She should be stronger. She should be handling this better. But she couldn’t. She just couldn’t. 

“I know... I just feel like... I’m failing,” she confessed, her voice trembling slightly. “Everything’s just so much... New York is so expensive, and the debt, and the apartment, and the restaurant... I don’t know how to keep up with all of it.” 

Yujin’s voice softened, filled with understanding. “You’re not failing, Wonyoung. You’re doing your best, and that’s all anyone can ask for. We’re in this together, okay? You’re not alone.” 

But even as he said the words, she could feel the distance between them, the gap that had grown with time, with their separate lives and responsibilities. She longed for him in ways she couldn’t explain. She missed the way he would hold her, kiss her, make everything feel right again. 

“I miss you,” she admitted, her voice breaking slightly. “I miss you so much. I just want you here... with me. I don’t want to feel so... alone.” 

Yujin’s words were gentle, filled with longing and love. “I miss you too, so much. I wish I could be there with you, to hold you, to kiss you, to take away your stress... I hate that we’re so far apart right now.” 

Wonyoung closed her eyes, her heart aching. She wanted so badly to feel him, to have him hold her like he used to. She wanted his kiss, the way it used to feel like he could erase all her worries with a single touch. But now, all she had were these long-distance conversations.

“I’m so tired, Yujin,” she whispered, her voice barely audible. “I don’t know how much longer I can do this.”

Yujin’s tone shifted, becoming more determined. “You can do this, Wonyoung. I know you can. And I’ll be here every step of the way, even if it’s just through the phone. But I’ll always be here, cheering you on.” 

But despite his words, Wonyoung couldn’t shake the feeling of loneliness that seemed to consume her, the anxiety that she couldn’t outrun. She felt guilty for not being stronger, for needing him so much. She wished she could be the person she used to be, the one who could handle everything with ease. But now, all she could do was bury herself in more work, trying to keep the anxiety at bay, trying to distract herself from the emptiness she felt without him. 

“I love you,” she said quietly, almost to herself. “I just wish you were here. Everything would be bearable.” 

“I love you too,” Yujin replied softly. “And I promise, I’ll be there with you again, soon. Just hold on, okay? I’m doing everything I can to make it happen. We’ll get through this.” 

***

Yujin sat on the edge of his bed, running a hand through his hair as he stared at the phone in his hand. He could hear the exhaustion in Wonyoung’s voice through the call. It was the same conversation they seemed to be having more and more lately — long days, endless work. He couldn’t stand it any longer. 

“Wonyoung,” Yujin said softly, his voice laced with concern, “why don’t you come back home now? It’s been so hard for both of us... Wouldn’t it be better if you were here with me? We can deal with the debt together, and I’m already looking for a second job. We’ll figure it out.” 

There was a long pause on the other end of the line. Yujin could almost hear the tension building on her side. He knew this wasn’t the first time he had brought it up, but every time he mentioned it, the pain in his chest deepened. He missed her so much, and with the way things were going, it felt like they were both slipping away from each other. 

Wonyoung didn’t answer right away. Instead, she leaned back in her office chair, staring at the screen of her laptop filled with deadlines and never-ending tasks. His words stung, not because they were wrong, but because they were so painfully true. She missed him so much it hurt, but it wasn’t that easy. She couldn’t just pack her bags and go home. There was too much at stake. 

“I can’t, Yujin,” Wonyoung finally said, her voice strained. “I have a contract. I can’t just break it... It’s not that simple.” 

Yujin felt a pang of frustration, but he pushed it down, knowing she wasn’t to blame. “But... you’re not happy there, Wonyoung. You sound exhausted every time we talk. We’re both miserable without each other. Wouldn’t it be better if we were in the same place?” 

“Why don’t you apply here?” Wonyoung asked suddenly, her voice breaking the silence. “You could find something in New York. We could be together.” 

Yujin blinked, taken aback by the suggestion. He hadn’t considered moving to the U.S., not seriously, at least. Especially when he’s the one making sure whatever Wonyoung left behind will be taken care of. The idea of being with her every day again, of not having to rely on video calls and texts, sent a thrill through him. But he also knew it wasn’t that simple. Moving countries wasn’t an easy decision, especially when he was about to have two jobs to help with the debt. Still, he couldn’t deny how tempting the thought was. 

“Is that what you really want?” he asked cautiously, wanting to make sure this wasn’t just a fleeting thought brought on by how hard things had become. 

“Yes, please…” Wonyoung replied, her voice more certain this time. “I want us to be together, Yujin. It’s so hard being apart like this. I miss you... I miss us.” 

Yujin let out a breath he didn’t realize he’d been holding. Hearing her say that made his heart ache. He wanted to be with her too, more than anything. If it would make her happy, if it would make things easier, he was willing to try. 

“Alright,” he said, his voice determined. “I’ll look into it. I’ll talk to my company, see if they can transfer me or maybe let me work remotely. I’ll figure something out.” 

After the call ended, Wonyoung stared at her phone screen, the image of Yujin’s face fading away. A wave of regret washed over her. She had just asked him to move to New York, practically begged him to come, but now that the call was over, reality set in. It wasn’t that simple. She knew deep down that it wasn’t a logical solution. Yujin being in Korea meant that he could handle everything she left behind, especially the responsibilities she couldn’t trust anyone else with. And as much as she hated to admit it, she couldn’t trust her parents anymore — especially her father. 

She sighed, sinking deeper into the couch. Her father had already caused enough damage with the debt and with the interest growing per month they are still far from paying everything, and even though her mother tried her best, Wonyoung knew her mother was too soft when it came to him. She couldn’t take that risk again. If something went wrong with the money, if her father pulled another stunt, it would fall apart. Having Yujin in Korea, someone she could rely on, gave her peace of mind. He made sure the payments were made, the restaurant was looked after, and that every bit of money she transferred was going where it needed to go. She felt safe knowing Yujin was there, watching over everything she worked so hard for. But the price of that safety was this — the loneliness, the emptiness she felt every day in New York. The city that never sleeps was starting to feel like a prison. She had her job, her responsibilities, but when she came home at night, it was just her. Just the cold, empty apartment that wasn’t home, no matter how much she tried to make it feel that way. 

A few months had passed since she arrived, and already, the weight of it all was starting to crush her. She missed Yujin so much that it physically hurt some days. Her heart ached every time she saw couples walking down the street or holding hands on the subway. And now, with Yujin about to take on a second job, their video calls were going to be less frequent, shorter. She could feel herself spiraling — her thoughts becoming darker, the loneliness gnawing at her more each day. 

Wonyoung stared at the ceiling, her mind racing. She knew Yujin would drop everything and come if she asked again, but she couldn’t let him. As much as she wanted him here, she couldn’t be selfish. If he came to New York, who would handle everything back home? Who would make sure they didn’t lose the apartment, or that the restaurant didn’t fall apart? 

She was already feeling so low, so drained from the constant stress of work and being alone. The depression she didn’t want to acknowledge was creeping in, wrapping its cold fingers around her heart. She had been so focused on staying strong, on pretending like she could handle it, but the truth was she was breaking. 

Wonyoung sat up, hugging her knees to her chest. She missed Yujin’s presence — the way he used to hug her when she was stressed, the way his kiss could make her forget all the worries in the world. A simple text or call wasn’t enough anymore. She needed him, physically, emotionally. But no matter how much she wanted to hold him, to feel his arms around her, she knew he was better off in Korea. And that realization only made her feel more guilty, more isolated. 

***

“Honey,” Yujin said softly, his voice cracking slightly, “I just don’t want you to go through this alone. I can’t stand knowing how stressed and tired you are, and there’s nothing I can do from here. I’m trying to find a job that will let me come to the U.S., but nothing’s come through yet... I haven’t heard back from my company about working remotely, so I’m looking everywhere. But it’s taking a while.” 

Wonyoung bit her lip, feeling the guilt weighing heavier on her chest. It wasn’t just about her anymore. Yujin was struggling too, and she felt responsible for all of it. He was working himself to the bone, picking up extra jobs, just to help pay the debt and make their lives easier. And here she was, far away, feeling useless. Every word he spoke made her chest tighten with guilt, but she didn’t know how to fix it. She didn’t know how to make things better for them. 

“I’m so sorry, Yujin,” she whispered, her voice barely audible. “I didn’t mean for things to be like this... I hate that you’re working so hard because of me. I just... I don’t know what to do.” 

Yujin’s heart sank at the sound of her voice, so small and broken. He wished more than anything that he could be there with her, hold her, and tell her that everything was going to be okay. But instead, all he had were promises and words that couldn’t bridge the distance between them. 

“You don’t need to apologize,” he said, trying to keep his voice steady. “We’re in this together, remember? We knew it would be hard, but we’ll make it through. I just... I hate that I can’t do more for you right now.” 

But as much as Yujin tried to reassure her, Wonyoung couldn’t shake the gnawing feeling of guilt. The more she thought about it, the more she felt like she was dragging him down, that she was the reason he was struggling so much. The burden of the debt, the long hours, the stress — it all felt like it was her fault. She had made the decision to take the job in New York, to leave Seoul, and now Yujin was paying the price for it. 

The depression she didn’t even realize was creeping in, taking root in her heart. She felt isolated in a city that didn’t feel like home, stuck in a job that was wearing her down, and the one person who had always been her rock was thousands of miles away. No matter how hard they both worked, the debt still loomed large, and New York’s expenses only added to her stress. Even though she was earning well, it wasn’t enough. It never felt like enough. 

“I miss you so much,” she said, her voice trembling. “I wish I could just be with you. Everything’s so much harder without you here.” 

“I miss you too,” Yujin said softly, his voice filled with longing. “But we’ll get through this. We have to.” 

But Wonyoung wasn’t sure anymore. The weight of it all felt like it was suffocating her, and the more she tried to push through, the more she felt herself sinking. The stress, the guilt, the loneliness — it was becoming too much. And even though she knew Yujin was trying his best, his words, his reassurances, they weren’t enough to chase away the overwhelming sadness that was starting to take hold of her heart. 

***

The video calls, once the highlight of Wonyoung and Yujin’s day, were becoming increasingly rare. At first, it was just a missed call here and there — Wonyoung stuck in a late meeting at work, or Yujin busy with his overtime or side hustle. They both shrugged it off, thinking it was temporary, a small hiccup in their schedule. But soon, those small misses turned into longer gaps. Meetings ran late, deadlines loomed, and Yujin, exhausted from juggling his second job, would sometimes fall asleep before the scheduled call. It started to feel like they were playing a game of missed connections — one of them always tied up when the other was free. 

One night, after a particularly long day, Yujin had fallen asleep before their scheduled call. It was a time they had both been looking forward to, the only moment in days they could actually spend talking without rushing. But as Wonyoung sat there, phone in hand, watching the minutes tick by, waiting for Yujin’s face to pop up on the screen, he never called. She waited, her heart sinking, knowing that he must’ve fallen asleep. 

Frustration bubbled inside her. She had been counting on this. She needed this call. When Yujin finally messaged her in the morning, apologizing for missing it, Wonyoung couldn’t stop the anger that erupted. Why couldn’t you just stay awake? You knew how much I needed you! She fired off a cold, curt reply, not even trying to hide her disappointment. Deep down, she knew it wasn’t entirely fair — Yujin was working so hard, doing everything he could to support them. But in her tired, anxious state, she was too sensitive. 

In the days that followed, the gap between them seemed to widen. Wonyoung couldn’t shake the feeling that they were drifting apart. She realized, with a pang of anxiety, that she hadn’t had a real conversation with Yujin in weeks. When they did talk, it was rushed — a quick update on work or the restaurant, a fast good morning before their schedules pulled them in different directions. Even when they managed to squeeze in a call, both of them were too tired to have meaningful conversations. It was just words. Empty, surface-level words. 

And Yujin — sweet, caring Yujin — was trying so hard. He could see the stress in Wonyoung’s voice, the exhaustion in her messages. He would tell her to rest, to take care of herself, and every once in a while, he’d surprise her with flowers at work or food. But instead of feeling comforted, Wonyoung felt more irritated. The flowers felt like a reminder of how far apart they were, of how Yujin wasn’t there to hold her, to actually take her hand and tell her things would be okay. 

The more anxious and frustrated Wonyoung became, the more she vented it all on Yujin. He became the emotional punching bag for all her stress, her exhaustion, and the overwhelming guilt she felt. She snapped at him for things that weren’t his fault — for missing calls, for not understanding her mood, for not saying the right thing at the right time. Every conversation started to feel like a ticking time bomb, Wonyoung lashing out at him over the smallest issues, her temper quick to flare. 

Yujin, to his credit, never snapped back. He would listen quietly, his voice calm and patient, trying to soothe her. He’d tell her it was okay, that she was just tired, that things would get better. “Just rest, honey,” he’d say gently, “I’ll handle things here. You’re doing amazing.” But those words, once a source of comfort, started to sound hollow in Wonyoung’s ears. She didn’t want to rest. She wanted things to go back to the way they were. She wanted him there, not on a screen, not through a phone, but in the same room with her, where she could touch him, feel his warmth. 

Her guilt only grew with each passing day. Yujin didn’t deserve this — he was working two jobs, managing the apartment, the restaurant, and still finding time to send her flowers and messages of love. But every time she saw those gestures, she felt angrier. She felt like she was suffocating under the weight of her emotions, under the constant stress of work and the looming debt. And it was Yujin who bore the brunt of it. She hated that she was taking it out on him, but she couldn’t stop herself. 

One evening, after another rushed conversation where she snapped at Yujin for something trivial, Wonyoung sat in silence, her phone still in her hand. Tears pricked at her eyes, a lump forming in her throat. She knew she was pushing him away, but she didn’t know how to stop. 

Wonyoung had always been strong, but the weight of everything — her demanding job, the debt, the loneliness — was becoming too much. And Yujin, the one person who had always been her safe place, was now the target of all her frustrations. It started small, with little comments and passive-aggressive jabs, but soon it turned into full-blown arguments. 

One evening, Wonyoung was exhausted after another twelve-hour workday. She’d had a meeting that ran late, missed her lunch break, and was swamped with last-minute revisions that her boss had piled on. As she dragged herself home, her phone buzzed. It was a text from Yujin, a simple “I miss you” accompanied by a heart emoji. Normally, that would have made her smile, but tonight, it made her blood boil. 

She texted back sharply, “You miss me? Do you think just saying that is enough? I’m breaking my back here while you’re—” She deleted the rest of her sentence, feeling a pang of guilt, but her frustration wouldn’t let her stop so she continued typing. She took a deep breath and hit send, knowing she was about to start a fight. 

Yujin called a few minutes later, his voice soft, as if sensing her bad mood. “Honey, I’m sorry. I know it’s hard. But I’m here, we’re in this together, okay?” 

But that only fueled her anger. “Together? We’re not together,” she snapped. “You’re there, living your life in Seoul normally, and I’m here, dealing with this mess alone! You have no idea how hard it is, Yujin. You don’t understand anything!” 

“Everything will be okay, honey. We can do it.”

“Everything?” she scoffed, unable to control her bitterness. “You’re just sitting there, comfortable in our apartment, you have your friends there, your family is there. Meanwhile, I’m here. Alone. Don’t pretend like you’re doing as much as I am.” 

The words hit Yujin hard. She could hear the hurt in his silence, but he didn’t retaliate. He never did. Instead, he let out a long breath and spoke softly. “You’re right, Wonyoung. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to make you feel like I’m not doing enough.” 

That only made her angrier. Why did he have to be so understanding all the time?  “Stop apologizing!” she snapped again, her voice trembling with frustration. “I don’t want your sorrys, Yujin. I want you to actually do something that helps! When will you come here?!”

“I’m trying,” he said quietly. “I’ve been looking for other jobs. I’m doing all I can, my company didn’t approve about working remotely. But... if there’s something more I can do, tell me.” 

Wonyoung clenched her fists, staring at the wall of her small New York apartment, tears of frustration welling in her eyes. He was trying, but it didn’t feel like enough. “Why can’t you do it by yourself? I am busy here, I can’t even eat or sleep properly. You don’t get it, Yujin. You just don’t get it,” she muttered before hanging up abruptly, leaving him in the silence of the call. 

Another time, it was a Friday night. Yujin had stayed up late, waiting for her to finish her workday so they could have a video call, something they hadn’t done in days. Wonyoung was supposed to call him once she was done, but when she finally did, her face was drawn and tired, her voice flat. 

Yujin greeted her with his usual warmth. “Hey, beautiful. I missed you so much today. How was work?” 

But Wonyoung was in no mood for small talk. “It was awful, Yujin. Just like every other day,” she muttered. Her words were clipped, and Yujin could sense her irritation. He tried to cheer her up, his tone light and playful. 

“Come on, let me see that smile. We’ll get through this. Maybe I’ll come visit soon again.”

Wonyoung scoffed, her frustration boiling over. “Visit? Are you kidding me right now? You can’t just drop everything and come here, Yujin. We can barely keep up with the debt, and you’re talking about a visit? Do you know how much a ticket costs?”

Yujin was taken aback but kept his voice gentle. “I just thought... maybe it would help if we saw each other. Even if it’s just for a few days.” 

“No, it wouldn’t help,” she snapped, her words cutting through the air like knives. “You showing up here wouldn’t change anything. You will be here and then when you leave, I’ll be alone all over again.” 

Yujin’s face fell, the hurt visible in his eyes, but he didn’t argue. “Okay. I’m sorry. I just wanted to make things better for you.” 

“Well, it’s not better!” Wonyoung shouted, her frustration boiling over. “You’re not here, Yujin. You don’t understand what I’m going through. I’m drowning here, and all you can do is say ‘sorry.’” Her voice cracked, the weight of her emotions too much to hold back. “I’m tired. I’m tired of everything.” 

Yujin’s voice was soft, barely above a whisper. “I know, Wonyoung. I wish I could take some of that weight off you.” 

But Wonyoung wasn’t ready to be soothed. “Stop saying that! Stop acting like you know what I’m feeling!” she spat, her words laced with venom she didn’t mean. She was hurting, and she was hurting him in the process. “You don’t know what it’s like to be stuck here, all alone, dealing with this by myself.” 

Yujin’s silence on the other end was deafening. He didn’t argue. He didn’t defend himself. He just took it, absorbing the blows of her frustration like he always did. And that made Wonyoung feel even worse. He didn’t deserve this. He was trying, but in her spiraling emotions, she couldn’t stop herself from pushing him away. 

***

As the months passed, Wonyoung found herself sinking deeper into an unfamiliar sense of isolation. New York, with all its vibrant energy and opportunity, had started to feel more like a distant planet than the exciting new chapter she once envisioned. Despite the friendly atmosphere at her law firm and the polite conversations with her coworkers, there was an emptiness gnawing at her. She missed Yujin with a fierceness that caught her off guard, and the comfort of their simple life in Korea felt like a dream slipping further out of reach. Every day was a routine of work, work, and more work — void of the warmth that Yujin’s presence used to bring her. 

She felt like a stranger in her own life, detached from the things that once grounded her. The days blurred together, and she started feeling like an outsider, even in her own skin. It was subtle at first, but as time dragged on, the depression began to grow inside her. It wasn’t something she could pinpoint; it was just this hollow ache that lingered in the background, making her question her choices. The distance between her and Yujin seemed to stretch endlessly, and no matter how often they called or texted, it wasn’t enough to fill the void that had settled in her heart. 

Yujin had suggested visiting. The thought of seeing him again, even if just for a week, lit a small spark of excitement within her. She could already imagine his warm hug, his familiar scent, and the sound of his voice in person rather than through a screen. But reality soon set in, like it always did. The plane ticket was expensive — too expensive. They were already barely scraping by, with the monthly payments to the apartment in Seoul and the debt that still loomed over their heads. They couldn’t afford to splurge on something like that. And even if they did, Wonyoung knew that once Yujin left, the emptiness would return, stronger than ever. She couldn’t bear the thought of experiencing that withdrawal, tasting the comfort of his presence only to have it ripped away once he boarded a flight back to Korea. 

The idea of seeing him, even for a brief moment, seemed thrilling and torturous all at once. It was like she was dangling over a cliff — knowing that Yujin’s visit would give her a moment of reprieve, but the inevitable fall afterward would crush her. Her mood had already been worsening, and just when she thought things couldn’t get more overwhelming, life threw another curveball. 

One evening, Wonyoung was about to call Yujin when her phone rang. It was her mother, her voice shaky on the other end. “Your father... he’s not well,” her mother had said, and Wonyoung’s heart clenched immediately. She had already been struggling with the growing resentment toward her father, the man whose mistakes had thrown their family into this financial mess. But despite that, hearing that he was ill brought a heavy pit to her stomach. 

“He’s been diagnosed with a chronic kidney disease. It’s still in the early stages, but... the doctors said his kidney will fail one day. They are just gonna slow down the process with medicines for now.” Her mother’s voice cracked, and Wonyoung could hear the strain in her words, the worry and fear masked behind a thin veil of calm. For now, he was on medication, but dialysis or the kidney transplant loomed on the horizon, threatening to pull them deeper into the financial and emotional abyss. 

Wonyoung sat in silence after the call, her mind spinning. Another blow. Another weight on her already burdened shoulders. The resentment she had felt toward her father now twisted into a complex knot of guilt and sadness. She hated him for the debt, for the situation they were in. But how could she hate him when he was sick, facing something as serious as this? 

Her mother had sounded so fragile on the phone, and Wonyoung felt an ache in her chest. She wasn’t there. She wasn’t in Korea to help. It was all on Yujin now — another responsibility piled onto him while she was miles away in New York, drowning in her own struggles. And the worst part? She had no idea how to fix any of it. 

***

Yujin walked into the small family restaurant, a familiar scent of home-cooked Korean food greeting him as he entered. It had been a while since he last saw Wonyoung’s father, Yool-ho. As he glanced around, he noticed the new waitress — a young woman busy taking orders — and then spotted Yool-ho sitting quietly at one of the corner tables. His figure had become thinner, noticeably frailer, his once sturdy frame reduced by illness and the weight of guilt that seemed to hang on his shoulders. 

After ordering a simple meal, Yujin took his tray and approached Yool-ho, who smiled weakly at him. 

“Ah, Yujin. Sit with me,” Yool-ho gestured. His voice was softer than Yujin remembered, tired but kind. Yujin pulled up a chair, setting down his food. 

“How are you feeling, Mr. Jang?” Yujin asked gently, trying to hide the concern in his voice. 

Yool-ho gave a small sigh, looking down at the simple dinner on Yujin's tray. “I’m okay, for now,” he began. “Just the medications, you know? And this new kidney-friendly diet they’ve put me on.” He laughed bitterly, motioning to the nearly empty plate before him. “No more good food, less protein, less salt... less everything I used to enjoy.” 

Yujin could see it — the exhaustion in his eyes, the frustration masked behind a tired smile. “But the doctor says it’s necessary. No overexertion, no stress… and that’s why we had to hire help here.” He nodded toward the waitress, a new addition to the small team. 

“Yeah, you shouldn’t be doing anything that’ll make it worse. Just rest.” 

Yool-ho was quiet for a moment, his gaze wandering before he looked back at Yujin, his expression suddenly serious. “Yujin,” he began, his voice low, “I’m sorry.” 

Yujin blinked, surprised by the sudden confession. “For what, sir?” 

Yool-ho sighed heavily, his hands resting on the table as if they weighed a ton. “It’s my fault… everything. Wonyoung is in another country, suffering because of me.” His words were filled with regret, eyes clouded with guilt. “This is my punishment, being sick. I trusted my brother with the money, and look where it led us. The debt… it’s all my fault. Wonyoung wouldn’t be working in America if I hadn’t failed her.” 

Yujin swallowed, feeling a lump form in his throat. He knew how much the debt had weighed on Wonyoung’s family, but seeing Yool-ho like this — broken by guilt and his illness — stirred something deep in him. “Don’t overthink too much,” Yujin said softly. “Focus on getting better. I know Wonyoung doesn’t want to see you sick.” 

Yool-ho let out a sad chuckle. “She hasn’t spoken to me since she left,” he confessed, his eyes dimming. “I know she’s angry. Angry that I let this happen… angry that I’ve put this burden on her.” 

Yujin’s heart ached at the thought of Wonyoung, miles away, carrying the weight of her family’s troubles while harboring resentment toward her father. “She’ll come around,” Yujin said, though he wasn’t sure if he was comforting Yool-ho or himself. “She’s just dealing with a lot right now.” 

Yool-ho shook his head. “I understand why she’s angry. I don’t blame her. I failed her as a father, and this is the consequence. But I wish… I wish I could tell her that I’m proud of her, that I’m sorry.” His voice cracked, a rare display of vulnerability from a man who tried to stay strong. 

“Don’t be too hard on yourself. Wonyoung loves you, and she’ll understand in time. For now, just focus on getting better.” 

***

Yujin leaned back in his chair, letting out a deep breath as he swirled his drink. The restaurant was buzzing around him, but it was a rare moment of peace. "Finally," Seulwoo said, raising his glass. "You actually made it to dinner. I was starting to think you forgot what food tasted like." 

Yujin smiled tiredly. "Wonyoung's asleep, so I figured I could grab a bite." 

Seulwoo chuckled. "You've been a ghost lately, man. Work keeping you that busy?" 

Before Yujin could respond, the door to the restaurant opened, and in walked Giselle and Liz. "Look who decided to show up!" Giselle exclaimed, spotting Yujin immediately. She and Liz made their way over to the table, sliding into the empty chairs. 

Liz squinted at him, her expression shifting to one of concern. "Yujin, you look... different. Have you lost weight? And those bags under your eyes? What happened?" 

Yujin chuckled, waving it off. "Nah, just work. You know how it is. Long hours and all that." 

"More like you haven't had a proper night's sleep," Giselle said, leaning forward to get a closer look. "It's been ages since we’ve seen you around. You’ve barely had time for us or yourself." 

Seulwoo nodded in agreement. "You've been a lot more... distant. How is Wonyoung?" 

Yujin scratched the back of his head, his eyes momentarily flicking away from them. "Yeah, it's been tough. And things are... well, complicated. But it's fine. I’ve just been focused on work. That’s all." 

Liz shot him a skeptical glance. "Complicated? That doesn't sound fine." 

Before Yujin could respond, Giselle spoke up again. "By the way, Seulwoo and I are... official now." She grinned and Seulwoo reached over to take her hand. 

Yujin smiled warmly at them. "That's awesome. I’m happy for you two." 

Seulwoo gave Yujin a pointed look. "Yeah, it started as a fling, but now... it’s real. We make time for each other, no matter how busy we get." 

Giselle nodded, her eyes softening. "That’s important, you know? Making time. No matter how crazy things get." 

Yujin smiled, though there was a hint of sadness behind his eyes. He knew they were right. He missed that feeling — being able to just relax with Wonyoung, to be present. But now, between his two jobs, the debt they were both trying to chip away at, and Wonyoung’s stress in New York, it felt like he was being stretched too thin. 

As the conversation shifted, Liz turned to Yujin, her expression soft with concern. "So... how much more of the debt is left?" she asked carefully, knowing it was a sensitive subject. 

Yujin sighed and leaned back in his chair, looking a bit worn. "It's still pretty large," he admitted. "That's why I picked up a second job. I work at the company during the day, and then I have another remote job at night. Just trying to chip away at it faster." 

Giselle raised her eyebrows in surprise. "Wow, Yujin, you're a total workaholic now. Who would've thought?" She gave him a teasing grin, but there was genuine admiration behind her words. 

Yujin let out a shy laugh, rubbing the back of his neck. "Yeah, well, I just want to be with her faster."

Giselle’s smile softened as she continued, "You know, I offered to help Wonyoung out. Told her I wouldn't even ask for interest, just to help her get out of this quicker." She paused, shaking her head slightly. "But, of course, Wonyoung refused. I expected it. She’s always been so prideful, wanting to solve everything on her own." 

Yujin nods, remembering how his mother offered the same, but Wonyoung kept insisting it was her family’s problem.

Liz nodded in agreement. "Yeah, that sounds like her. It’s only when she met you, Yujin, that she started lowering her guard. I think you were the first person she really let in, the first person she relied on." 

Yujin smiled faintly, but there was a heaviness to it. "I know. And now that we’re apart, I’m sure she’s having a hard time adjusting... She’s always had trouble letting anyone help her." 

Giselle leaned forward slightly, her voice more serious now. "Yujin, that’s a lot of pressure on you too. I mean, two jobs, handling all this debt... you’ve been doing so much. But what about you?" 

Yujin shrugged, looking down at the table for a moment before answering. "It’s not really about me right now. I’m just trying my best to be there for her, even if it's from a distance. She’s going through a lot, and I know she’s not great at opening up. So... I just have to make sure I’m doing what I can, even if she doesn’t ask for help directly." 

Liz exchanged a glance with Giselle, their expressions mirroring each other’s worry. Liz sighed. "That’s a lot to carry on your own, Yujin. But you’re really doing everything you can. Just... don’t forget to take care of yourself too, okay? Wonyoung barely replies to our groupchat anymore."

Yujin smiled, but it didn’t quite reach his eyes. "I’ll be fine. It’s Wonyoung I’m worried about." 

There was a brief silence as the weight of everything settled between them. Giselle reached over and patted Yujin’s shoulder. "She’s lucky to have you, Yujin. You know that, right?" 

As the dinner went on, the conversation became lighter, with Giselle and Liz filling Yujin and Seulwoo in on their latest adventures. But in the back of Yujin's mind, he couldn’t shake the thought of how much had changed. How different things had become since Wonyoung left. He wanted to be there for her, like Seulwoo and Giselle were for each other. But right now, even making time for dinner with friends felt like a luxury he couldn’t afford. 

***

One Saturday afternoon, Wonyoung sluggishly made her way to the kitchen. The apartment was quiet, almost unnervingly so, and she had slept in later than she’d intended. Her work from the night before had kept her up far too late, and now, with her stomach growling, she had no choice but to make herself a quick lunch. She pulled out some vegetables from the fridge, deciding on something simple — she didn’t have the energy for anything elaborate. 

She set the cutting board down, slowly chopping the vegetables, her mind drifting. Everything felt so monotonous these days. The pressure from work, the constant feeling of being on edge, the loneliness — it was all beginning to weigh on her more heavily than ever. Her thoughts lingered on Yujin, as they often did, and how much she missed him. The way he would joke around, make her laugh, and, most of all, how he would always find a way to lighten her mood when she was stressed. 

Just as she was lost in her thoughts, her hand slipped, and the knife grazed her finger. She gasped as a sharp sting surged through her hand. The cut wasn’t too deep, but it bled instantly. The sight of the red blood dripping onto the counter hit her harder than she expected. She cursed softly under her breath, grabbing a tissue to press against the wound. 

As she stood there, the pain in her finger only intensified the ache in her chest. She suddenly felt the weight of her isolation — how alone she was in this foreign place. If Yujin were here, he would have rushed over in a panic, fussing over her, insisting on cleaning and bandaging the cut himself. He always had that protective instinct, even over the smallest things. But now, there was no one. No Yujin, no friends nearby to laugh about the accident with. Just her, in an empty apartment, dealing with everything by herself. 

After managing to bandage the cut, Wonyoung sat down to eat, but the lunch felt tasteless, almost like a chore. She barely finished half of it before giving up entirely. With a sigh, she grabbed her phone, something she had started doing less and less lately. Social media only reminded her of what she was missing out on. But she opened it anyway, scrolling aimlessly. 

Then, her heart stopped for a moment when she saw a new photo pop up on her feed. It was from Giselle, and it was a picture from a dinner with friends. Yujin was there. He was smiling, seated at the table with Giselle, Liz, and Seulwoo. He looked so carefree. It hit Wonyoung like a punch to the gut. 

A mix of emotions swirled inside her. Jealousy, sadness, and guilt all blended into one. There was Yujin, surrounded by their friends, seemingly enjoying his time, while she was alone, struggling to even make herself lunch without hurting herself. Part of her knew she was being irrational — Yujin deserved to have a break, to enjoy himself. But another part of her felt resentful. He wasn’t here. He wasn’t with her. He was still in Korea, able to laugh with friends, while she was stuck in this lonely apartment, far from everything and everyone she knew. 

She felt a familiar tightness in her chest, the kind that had been creeping in more often lately. And when she thought about how she had been treating Yujin — snapping at him during their calls, hanging up whenever she got frustrated — her guilt deepened. He didn’t deserve that. 

Wonyoung's days began to blur together. The endless cycle of meetings, deadlines, and late-night work left her exhausted, but she pushed through, unwilling to slow down. She began taking on more projects, cramming extra meetings into her already packed schedule. The pressure to succeed in her new job, along with the ever-present weight of the debt, consumed her thoughts. She worked herself, eating less, sleeping barely a few hours each night, and ignoring the warning signs her body was giving her. 

Soon, she started getting sick more frequently — nothing severe, just constant colds, fatigue, and headaches that never seemed to go away. But she kept it all to herself. Telling Yujin felt pointless; he had enough on his plate already. The last thing she wanted was to worry him even more. 

One night, during one of their rare video calls, Yujin noticed. He always noticed. 

"You don't look so good," Yujin said softly, concern evident in his eyes. "Maybe you should take a break, get some rest, Wonyoung." 

Wonyoung, already irritable and on edge, snapped. "Oh, I'm sorry for not looking pretty today," she shot back, her voice dripping with sarcasm. 

Yujin’s expression shifted, his eyes widening in shock. "I didn’t mean it like that," he replied quickly, his voice apologetic. "I just... I’m worried about you, that’s all." 

But Wonyoung wasn’t hearing him. Her exhaustion, stress, and the overwhelming pressure she was feeling all bubbled to the surface. "Stop telling me to rest, Yujin!" she said sharply, her frustration spilling over. "I can’t afford to rest. I don’t get to make money by resting. I’m not like you, able to balance everything so perfectly. Some of us have to work harder." 

Yujin fell silent on the other side of the screen. His gentle eyes filled with sadness, but he didn’t argue. He never argued with her. Instead, he just nodded slowly, and said, "I’m sorry... I didn’t mean to upset you." 

The apology only made Wonyoung feel worse, but she couldn’t stop. She was caught in a spiral, venting everything she’d been holding inside. "It’s just... everything is piling up, and I don’t need you to tell me to slow down. I don’t have that luxury, okay?" 

Yujin looked at her through the screen with that same understanding, patient expression. "I know you’re doing your best, Wonyoung," he said quietly. "I just want you to be okay." 

But his kindness, as always, only made the guilt worse. She swallowed hard, her throat tight, but she didn’t apologize. Instead, she ended the call abruptly, muttering a quick, "Here we go again. I have to go," before shutting her laptop, leaving Yujin on the other end without another word. 

Tears welled up in her eyes, but she blinked them away, forcing herself to refocus. She had to keep working. She had to keep pushing. There was no other option. 

***

Eight months had passed since Wonyoung arrived in New York, and life had turned into a whirlwind of work and exhaustion. She was seated at a large, polished table in a sleek conference room, staring at the presentation slides while trying to shake off the fatigue weighing her down. It was a big meeting with one of the top companies in Korea, and across from her sat another law firm’s representative, a lawyer named Song Han-Seo. 

Tall, elegant, and undeniably handsome, Han-Seo introduced himself with a warm smile, his polished appearance and confident demeanor effortlessly exuding wealth. As he took a seat, he glanced at her with a certain charm and, with a grin, said, “You’re beautiful.”