Chapter Text
13/9/2024
(00:02) Hello this is Kim Dokja. The class president. Sooyoung is the one who gave me your number btw.
(00:02) Who?
(00:02) You know, the guy who showed you the class.
(00:02) I think you've got the wrong number.
(00:03) Whaaaaa
(00:03) Seriously? You're not that brown hair girl who skipped a grade and went into our class this morning?
(00:04) No.
(00:04) Sorry then (.❛ ᴗ ❛.)
(00:04) I hate you.
(00:04) WHAT?!! WHERE IS THIS HATE COMING FROM?
(00:04) AFTER ALL I HAVE DONE FOR YOU?????
(00:05) AFTER ALL THAT TIME WE HAVE SPENT TOGETHER????
(00:05) AFTER ALL THAT SHIT I NEED TO PUT UP WITH SO I CAN BE YOUR ONE AND ONLY FRIEND????
(00:05) Okay. First of all, you're not my only friend.
(00:05) I have Heewon.
(00:06) And her freaking bf.
(00:06) Second of all. You gave me the wrong number of that girl this morning.
(00:06) Oh.
(00:07) What didn't you just say so?
(00:07) ??????
(00:07) I TRIED???
(00:08) But you went on babbling shit?
(00:08) Tee-hee?
(00:08) What I meant is, I'm sorry my dear friend.
(00:09) God.
(00:09) Just...
(22:09) Just give me her number.
(22:09) Aye aye sir!
(9:10) Shithead you didn't tell me we have homework for Physics?????
(9:11) I didn't?
(9:11) You still got the wrong number
(9:11) Oh damn
(9:12) My bad. It's hard trying to send messages when you need to type in stealth.
(9:13) Aren't you a student? Are you even allowed to use your phone in class?
(9:14) So are you????
(9:15) Besidesss. I'm not in class. I'm in detention class.
(9:15) What?
(9:15) That's worse.
(9:15) You can't use a phone in a detention class right?
(9:16) Meh.
(9:16) As long as you know how to hide it, I guess it's okay.
(9:16) You guess?
(9:17) You aren't a modest student aren't you?
(9:20) Wow, you guessed right.
(9:20) *Wink wink*
(9:25) Hellooo????
(9:25) Is anybody home?
(9:25) Why aren't you replying???
(9:26) Pffftttt. Got caught using phone too???
(9:26) Shit the teacher saw my phone.
(9:26) I'm going down dudeahshaha.
(14:23) Looks like you got caught even during detention.
(14:23) Which I need to remind you, it's the place where you need to look back at your own wrongdoing.
(14:23) Not doing the opposite.
(14:24) And you're a bad influence.
(14:24) My phone almost got caught by the teacher.
(14:24) But unlike you, I'm more modest in my 'stealth'.
(14:26) Shut up.
(14:26) I'm in a bad mood.
(14:27) And whose fault is that?
(14:27) You.
(14:28) Me?
(14:28) Yes. Have you lost the ability to read?
(14:28) And you're a hater.
(14:29) Just because I went to detention once, doesn't mean I'm a bad person.
(14:29) Ughhhhhh
(14:29) You are one of those judgmental people aren't you.
(14:50) That's not cool dude. Realllllyyyy nooooooott.
(14:51) I
(14:51) AM
(14:51) NOT????
(14:52) And that's your first time in a detention class?
(14:52) Has anyone told you, you can't bring your phone there?
(14:52) Who would tell me??? It's not a thing you would like to have a conversation with someone????
(14:53) Like; "hey, a sunny day innit? What would you say about the thing we can't bring to a detention class?"
(14:54) Your sense of humour....
(14:54) Is kind of something.
(14:54) In fact. Why the hell I'm still talking to you?
(14:54) Dunno. Maybe because I'm a charming person?
(14:56) ?????
(14:56) YOU LITERALLY IGNORE ME????
(14:56) WOW!
(14:56) I'M HURT.
(14:56) REALLY HURT.
(14:57) You're putting your phone on dnd aren't you?
(14:57) Fine. My bad dude. Bubye.
(16:44) Hyeee. This is Kim Dokja. The class president. This is Yoo Sangah-ssi right?
(16:44) Please be it's youuu
(16:45) Yes this is me.
(16:45) Phewwww. Thank GOD!
(16:45) Want to know something? I had a super weird conversation with the wrong number yesterday
(16:46) All because Sooyoung likes to collect people's number.
(16:46) Oh, Sooyoung is the loud one btw.
(16:47) Oh, the girl who laughed really loud when you need to go to detention?
(16:47) God. Do not remind me of my past mistake.
(16:47) Mind you, I'm not always like this. That's just the first and last mistake from me.
(16:48) I just....
(16:49) I had a really bad night. That's all. So sorry your first impression of me is a rebellious teenager.
(16:50) Ahahahahhaha. It's okay.
(16:51) Anyway, ask me anything regarding class. I'm the class president after all. I will add you in the group class later.
(16:51) Alright. Thank you Dokja-ssi.
(16:51) Oh yeah!
(16:51) One more thing.
(16:52) Dokja is fine. No need for formality.
(16:53) But you're older than me?
(16:53) And we're in the same grade???
(16:53) So it's okay.
(16:53) Right...
(16:54) Thanks again.
(16:54) No prob.
(22:30) Dudeeeeee. Want to come over???
(22:30) I got new game. Mom bought it yesterday.
(22:30) Forgot to tell you. With all that drama with that wrong number.
(22:34) Can't
(22:35) Is it a bad night?
(22:35) Meh. I've gotten worse before.
(22:34) Sometimes I'm worried about asking you your level definition of bad, worse and worst .
(22:36) Okay, you're not replying.
(22:36) This is bad bad based on my Sooyoung's dictionary.
(22:36) Our friendship radar is telling me something worse is happening.
(22:37) Need me to call police ?
(22:37) If you're not answering in 2 minutes....
(22:37) I'm calling copes.
(22:37) 1.....
(22:37) 5....
(22:38) Shit.
(22:38) That's not how minutes work.
(22:39) YOU'RE ALIVEEE !!!!
(22:39) I COULD KISS YOUU RIGHT NOW
(22:40) He just left
(22:40) So I think I'm good until next Monday.
(22:40) Oh right.
(22:40) It's the weekend tomorrow.
(22:40) Can't he wait until it's really really weekend?
(22:46) Dokjaa ?????
(22:46) You're worrying me dudeeee
(22:46) Sorry, I fell asleep.
(22:46) Talk later
(22:46) Gooooddd .
(22:46) You really need those sleep s.
(22:46) Sleep until noon tomorrow.
(22:46) I don't care.
(22:46) Bubye my dear friend.
14/9/2024
(01:33) Do you have weird fun facts?
(01:33) 'cause I really need one right now.
(01:34) My bad
(01:34) Must have fallen asleep huh?
(01:35) When winter arrives, worker bees kick out the male bees to die in the cold because they only serve to mate with the queen.
(01:35) Wow!
(01:35) You're awake!
(01:36) And what the hell....
(01:36) That's a creepy fun fact. Not a weird one.
(01:37) You ask for one. I answer for one.
(01:37) YEAH BUT NOT A CREEPY ONE.
(01:37) Anyway, why aren't you asleep yet?
(01:38) I can ask the same for you .
(01:39) I can't sleep.
(01:40) Besidessss. Tomorrow is Saturday.
(01:40) Who sleep early for weekend right?
(01:40) Am I right?
(01:40) (๑˘︶˘๑)
(01:41) ????
(01:41) That's a bad habit I tell you.
(01:41) That's not healthy at all.
(01:42) Says someone who also awake.
(01:42) I'm awake because I was playing a game.
(01:42) As someone has said before.
(01:42) And I quote.
(01:43) 'Who sleep early for weekend right?'
(01:44) I
(01:44) I have nothing to say.
(01:44) My mistake your majesty.
(01:46) And you.
(01:46) Why aren't you asleep yet?
(01:46) I TOLD YOUUU!!
(01:46) I CAN'T SLEEPPP!
(01:47) And you chose to disturb me?
(01:47) In all honesty, it's because all my friends are asleep.
(01:48) So you should take that sign for yourself.
(01:48) And try to sleep.
(01:49) Btw, do you know Sooyoung?
(01:49) I think you know her.
(01:49) 'cause I accidentally got your number from her
(01:50) Han Sooyoung?
(01:51) YESSS
(01:51) She's in student council.
(01:51) Of course I know her.
(01:52) Oh.
(01:52) So that explains it all
(01:52) On why I got your number, you know?
(01:52) Right
(01:53) Now you know
(01:54) Please leave me and my piecwe alodne
(01:55) Wow
(01:55) A minute apart for each reply.
(01:55) And many of typos.
(01:56) AHA!
(01:56) YOU'RE SLEEPYYY
(01:57) mmmm
(01:57) You're fast asleep huh?
(01:58) Leaving me all alone.
(01:58) Fine!
(01:58) Sleep all you want!
(8:40) GOOD MORNINGGG
(8:40) SOOYOUNG
(8:40) MY BELOVEED SOOYOUNG
(8:40) Wake upppp
(8:41) MOM KEEP ASKING ME ABOUT THE BRUISESSS.
(8:41) I WANT TO GO TO YOUR HOUSEWW.
(8:41) Shit.
(8:41) Yay YOU'RE AWAKEEE
(8:41) I am not.
(8:42) I was asleep but all your notifications woke me up.
(8:42) Shouldn't you be in bed?
(8:43) Says who?
(8:43) ?????
(8:43) Says what had happened last night????
(8:44) You should be in bed Dokja.
(8:44) Oopsieeee
(8:45) Mah bad
(8:45) Dokja....
(8:45) Okay okay!
(8:46) Can't you just...
(8:46) Can't you just call me?
(8:47) God Dokja.
(8:48) You can even come.
(8:48) I know you wouldn't mind.
(8:49) The call is just to distract me.
(8:49) We don't want news to come out about a teenager who died in a sewer with his bike right?
(8:49) (◕‿◕)
(8:50) DON'T JOKE ABOUT THINGS LIKE THAT!!
(8:50) JUST COME DUDE!!!
INCOMING CALL FROM 'MY BELOVED'
ACCEPT INCOMING CALL FROM 'MY BELOVED'
(12:30) He comes again
(12:31) I will be missing FYI
(12:32) Dokja?????
(12:32) ???
(12:33) Dudeee????
(12:34) Gosh!!
(12:33) Be safe then...
(13:03) How to treat a wound?
(13:04) You've got the wrong number again?
(13:05) No
(13:05) We have exchanged words for the past few days
(13:05) You're my friend now
(13:05) Take it or leave it
(13:06) I guess leave it?
(13:05) It's not like I have anything to lose.
(13:06) No no!!!
(13:06) I'm kidding
(13:06) Come backk!!!
(13:07) I really need help.
(13:08) With what?
(13:09) Glass wounds.
(13:10) Not wound but wounds????
(13:10) How are you even getting those in the first place?
(13:10) Long story short, it's someone else's fault but he doesn't want to take responsibility for it
(13:11) I mean...
(13:11) I'm not a doctor.
(13:11) So I can't help you.
(13:11) Search it up???
(13:12) Duhh????
(13:13) Then why don't you do it yourself?
(13:14) Now let us use our brain.
(13:14) My brain is not made for the purpose of keeping the wounds close while reading the 'how to stop my body from bleeding too much.'
(13:15) Besidess
(13:15) I can't type with one hand while the other is on top of the wounds now can't I?
(13:16) One hand is not enough for these much wounds.
(13:16) HOW DO YOU EVEN SEND THESE MESSAGES THEN???
(13:17) Skills dude
(13:17) Skills
(13:18) And maybe with the help of an autocorrect system
(13:19) Hello???
(13:20) You're leaving me or what???
(13:21) Shithead
(13:21) Take out those glasses first
(13:21) Awwwww
(13:21) You're an angel.
(13:25) Done. Now what?
(13:25) That was...
(13:25) Fast?
(13:26) I have a high pain tolerance. Works can be done faster for that skill
(13:27) WHAT WORKS ARE REQUIRED FOR THAT SKILL????
(13:28) Hey
(13:28) Focus
(13:29) What's next?
(13:30) Do you have alcohol??
(13:31) No?
(13:31) I may not be a modest student like you.
(13:32) But I'm still a morally good person
(13:33) Not for you.
(13:33) It's for the wounds. To numb them.
(13:34) I guess you just need to hold the pain in and wash them with tape water
(13:34) Says here, the pain will be worse.
(13:35) And then wrap them with gauze or something.
(13:40) Where are you??
(13:41) Whatever.
(14:01) Wow.
(14:01) You're not kidding
(14:01) I feel like I'm dying back then.
(14:02) I thought you were dead.
(14:02) Cruel
(14:03) But I thought the same thing.
(14:04) So what happened?
(14:04) Exactly?
(14:05) Personal issue. Sorry can't tell
(14:05) Even if your life is on the line???
(14:06) Because let me tell you.
(14:06) Your messages sounded like a dying man in the verge of going to nirvana land.
(14:07) And why can't you message your friends to help you?
(14:08) They are more noisy compare to you.
(14:08) I don't want them to ask things.
(14:09) Ahaa...
(14:09) Rightt...
(14:09) Sounds more concerning to me
(14:10) In what way????
(14:11) I'm not your closest friend.
(14:11) Bad thing happened and you didn't tell them.
(14:11) But you tell me.
(14:11) That's the signs that you're facing freaking hell-ish matter
(14:12) Because people tend to ask help from someone they just met
(14:13) ????
(14:14) Okay Sherlock????
(14:15) Eh but you're right though
(14:16) ٩(｡•́‿•̀｡)۶
(14:16) I guess that's your payment for helping me
(14:16) The truth behind why I ask you for help; that is.
(14:17) It does not????
(14:18) Pay me with something else
(14:19) Sorry mister
(14:19) I don't have money
(14:20) I'm not that cruel???
(14:20) You're a student
(14:21) Of course you don't have much money. Just reply fast if I ask for help.
(14:22) Ahahahahaha
(14:22) Rightt. That's better.
(14:23) Thank you again kind sir.
(22:01) You look cute.
(22:01) ?????
(22:01) Sorry. We just met.
(22:02) Even though you have been kind to me.
(22:02) I cannot respond to that.
(22:03) Sorry.
(22:03) That's my sister.
(22:04) She likes to use my phone.
(22:05) Awwww. Kind sir have a sister?
(22:05) Kind sir?
(22:06) Yeah, that's what I saved you as.
(22:07) Well, that explains why I can see your profile picture so suddenly.
(22:08) ??
(22:08) And that also explains that you don't save my number now aren't you?
(22:08) Duh?
(22:09) We just met.
(22:10) AND I HAVE DECLARED OUR FRIENDSHIP!
(22:10) NOW SAVE MY NUMBER!
(22:10) I DEMAND IT!
(22:11) God you're loud.
(22:11) Just like Sooyoung-ssi.
(22:11) No wonder you guys are friends.
(22:12) I beg your pardon???
(22:12) Louddd???
(22:13) I'm the perfect amount of a funny friend, thank you.
(22:14) What do you want me to save as?
(22:15) What?
(22:15) Your number.
(22:15) Oh right!
(22:16) Whatever. I don't really care. I just want to see your profile too.
(22:17) Ok
(22:17) Ugh. So dry.
(22:18) Ummm. I still can't see your picture
(22:18) Is it so hard to save my number?
(22:19) Shut up.
(22:20) I don't know what to save you as.
(22:21) Wounded person?
(22:22) Why would I save you as that?????
(22:23) Believe me. I'm going to get into more problems in the future.
(22:23) And I will and might ask your help for them. Because. Wounds.
(22:24) Right
(22:25) Wounds...
(22:25) I sense judgmental here.
(22:26) Awwww.
(22:26) Is that you in that picture? When you're a little kid?
(22:27) That's my sister...
(22:27) I'm a guy.
(22:28) Oh.
(22:28) Me too...
(22:28) Twinniess!!!!
(22:30) Earth to kind person??
(22:30) Guess you have left this poor person all alone.
(22:31) Night then!
15/9/2024
(12:04) Dokjaaaa
(12:04) Want to come over?
(12:04) Mom made a lot of food.
(12:07) Dokja?
(12:07) Not a good day then?
(12:07) Take care of yourself!!!
16/9/2024
(10:14) You okay?
(10:14) Why wouldn't I???
(10:15) Sooyoung said you didn't sleep last night. Or the other night? I can't remember.
(10:16) THE BETRAYAL!!
(10:16) THE AUDACITY!!!!
(10:17) She just told me that. Nothing else.
(10:18) Oh.
(10:18) I've done this many times before.
(10:19) And you're worried now because...??
(10:19) Dokja.
(10:20) Heewon.
(10:21) THIS IS SERIOUS!
(10:21) I'M NOT PLAYING!
(10:21) SO DO I????
(10:22) I meant the serious part.
(10:22) Seriously, I'm good.
(10:22) You sure?
(10:23) Yeah.
(10:23) Call me or Sooyoung if something happens.
(10:23) Will do!
(10:26) He said he's okay.
(10:26) And you believed that guy???
(10:26) Need me to remind you he cut himself on sports day and no one noticed until his knee was bleeding badly?
(10:27) Well shit.
(10:27) Yes shit.
(10:28) Well, and you know him. He won't tell us anything. All I know is his father's at fault. That's all you know too right?
(10:29) Well damn!
(10:30) True though.
(10:33) We will wait until Monday. If he doesn't show up, let's call the police.
(10:33) Fantastic. This is why I love you.
(10:34) Lmao. Hyunsung says I'm his.
(10:35) Ughhhh. Not in that way.
(10:35) Ahhahahaha.
(17:33) I need advice.
(17:33) Kind sir has sought me for advice????
(17:34) Mind tell me what that is, sir?
(17:35) How to treat a cry kid?
(17:36) You made your sister cry didn't you?
(17:36) ...
(17:37) If you don't want to help me then fine.
(17:38) No no no!!! I am gladly, want to help you. Have you searched up on the Internet?
(17:39) Says typical things like bribing with candies and what not.
(17:40) Oh. Yeah. Internet sucks sometimes.
(17:40) Okay, what does she likes?
(17:40) Plushies?
(17:41) Then go out and buy some.
(17:42) You're....
(17:42) Right....
(17:43) Yes I am.
(17:44) So..
(17:45) You already went out huh?
(17:46) Such a devoted brother
(17:47) I guess I don't owe you anymore
(17:48) Good luck with your sister
(19:12) Your idea did actually work.
(19:13) Thank you and yes you don't owe me anymore.
(19:14) Umm.
(19:14) I guess you're busy?
(19:15) Talk later.
(21:05) Sorryyyy.
(21:06) Need to help mom with some errands.
(21:06) Woww. My suggestion worked?
(21:06) Niceee
(21:07) Yep.
(21:08) Anyway, do you know Yoo Joonghyuk?
(21:08) I guess?
(21:09) Now mind you, I just started to watch his gameplay last week.
(21:09) AND I JUST NOTICED HE'S IN THE STUDENT COUNCIL????
(21:10) LIKE SOOYOUNG KNOWS BUT SHE DOESN'T TELL ME AND I JUST KIND OF KNEW WHEN I SUDDENLY SAW HIM WALK OUT FROM THE STUDENT COUNCIL'S ROOM
(21:11) Now imagine. That serious face you have been looking at at school is now playing games on your screen?
(21:12) I play games too????
(21:12) It's not weird??
(21:13) No it's not. It's just weird when you need to see your peer who has this stoic face all the time suddenly is in one of those many videos you see about games and all that.
(21:14) Dokja.
(21:15) God, I forgot you know my name.
(21:16) Actually...
(21:17) Yes, kind sir?
(21:18) Nevermind.
(21:19) Awww shucks. Btw, What does your face look like though? You already saw my face so it's just right for me to see yours too.
(21:20) Tomorrow.
(21:21) What? You will come see me tomorrow?
(21:21) Yes.
(21:22) Well I already knew you're a part of the student council so I wouldn't be that surprise to see your face. Well, you know. Considering the fact that they are always in the center of the attention of the school.
(21:24) Right.
(21:25) Night then.
(21:25) Nighttty
17/9/2024
(8:09) Dudeeee
(8:09) THAT IS SOME SERIOUS BLACK EYE.
(8:09) The teacher is also giving you this weird look btw.
(8:09) Like you have been involving yourself with a gang or something.
(8:10) I am not????
(8:10) That's what I thought.
(8:11) Need an ice packet or something?
(8:12) And you have it on you?
(8:12) Nope. But the nurse's office has some I think. Want to get out?
(8:13) No??? I just arrived. And I have my name on that teacher's blacklist. What would you think she would think of me if I left in the middle of her class???
(8:14) Rightttt. Because of that Physics homework.
(8:14) Because of the Physics' homework.
(8:15) My bad. During recess then?
(8:16) Yeah.
(9:40) Dokja. As someone who is in charge of the PE while the teacher is fast asleep.
(9:41) I recommend you to go to the nurse's office.
(9:42) Godd... Not you too Hyunsung.
(9:43) Heewon is worried. When she's worried, she spams me. When she spams me, I need to do the same to you.
(9:44) THE AUDACITY!!!!
(9:44) the BETRAYAL!!!
(9:45) Dokja...
(9:46) Fine.
(9:50) I forgot to ask which class you are.
(9:51) I'm in the nurse's office.
(9:51) ????
(9:51) Do I need to ask why??
(9:52) You know why.
(9:53) No I do not.
(9:53) Personal issue.
(9:53) Rightt
(9:54) I'm on my way then.
(22:56) YOU'RE THE FREAKING YOO JOONGHYUK?????
(22:56) AND YOU LET ME BABBLING ALL THAT SHIT ABOUT YOU???
(22:57) RIGHT IN YOUR FACE???
(22:57) IF SOMEONE FOUND ME DIE SOMEWHERE NEAR A TALL BUILDING, MIND YOU THAT IT'S ALL YOUR FAULT
(22:58) Because it's funny.
(22:58) I guess you're not lying when you say you're a funny friend.
(22:59) IT'S NOT FUNNY WHEN YOU'RE THE ONE WHO NEED TO LISTEN TO MY WEIRD THINKING OF YOUUU
(23:00) IMAGE SENT
(23:00) IMAGE RECEIVED
(23:01) Really? A middle finger? So childish.
(23:01) And I'm not mad about what you said about me.
(23:02) So don't worry too much.
(23:03) Shut up. I'm going to sleep. You're on my blacklist of shame Joonghyuk
(23:04) Don't care. Worth the shame.
(23:05) UGHHHHHHH
(23:10) AhahahahahHa you badmouth Joonghyuk-ssi?
(23:10) THE FAMOUS YOO JOONGHYUK???
(23:11) Right in front of his face?
(23:11) Well I mean, not his face. But with messages. But whatever.
(23:12) This is all your fault.
(23:14) Mine???
(23:14) You're the one who keeps talking shit about him. I mean, why the hell do you hate him so much to the point you need to badmouth him with someone?
(23:15) He has this smug face on him all the time I swear to god.
(23:15) And goshhh. He smirked a little when he saw me in the nurse's office. SMIRRKK
(23:15) That's one of his smug faces I tell you!!!!
(23:17) Now, what have we learnt from this?
(23:18) Don't badmouth someone.
(23:18) If not, you will just embarrass yourself.
(23:19) And your descendants are the one who needs to carry the shame until they die.
(23:20) You're so dramatic sometimes.
(23:20) Mom says hi.
(23:21) OH
(23:21) HI AUNTIEEEE
(23:21) Wait...
(23:21) You should be in bed by now.
(23:22) What are you doing with your mom?
(23:23) Mom needs someone to help with the kimchi.
(23:23) Kimchiiiii?????
(23:24) I want somee!!!
(23:24) Figured you say that. Mom says you're always welcome to have it.
(23:25) And she asks when is her favourite child will come again to her house?
(23:26) Soon auntie. Soon~
(23:27) Your fav child is facing mid-life crisis at the moment.
(23:28) ??
(23:28) You're 17.
(23:28) What is the possibility of a mid-life crisis that you need to face?
(23:29) We have a History quiz tomorrow.
(23:30) Don't tell me....
(22:30) YOU FORGOT????
(23:32) Only history right?
(23:32) Yes?
(23:33) Then it's no problem.
(23:34) Oh rightttt
(23:34) I forgot you like history. Like generally for every history.
(23:35) Mom needs me again.
(23:35) See you tomorrow?
(23:36) Yesss
(23:36) Nightt
18/9/2024
(00:04) You're doing live??
(00:05) You're playing that new games, huh?
(00:05) Hey hey!!
(00:05) Is it fun???
(00:06) Hey look at your phone!!!
(00:07) The people can hear your phone buzzing with my messages.
(00:08) You should put your phone somewhere else when you do live you know?
(00:09) Not so professional now, huh?
(00:10) Oppsss, my baddd
(00:10) Someone says; 'that must be from his girlfriend.'
(00:11) I'm going to shut up now.
(00:11) Byeeee
(1:34) Kim Dokja I swear to god
(1:34) I'm going to kill you tomorrow.
(1:35) Oh you're awakeee
(1:36) And sorry cannot.
(1:37) I have a quiz tomorrow.
(1:37) Pick other day.
(1:38) ...
(1:38) And you're still awake?
(1:38) When you have a big stuff tomorrow?
(1:38) Well and lively!
(1:39) Dokja...
(1:40) Sorry, I have problem with sleep sometimes.
(1:41) Care to give any advice?
(1:42) Drink tea.
(1:42) Or anything hot.
(1:43) Hot milk is also good.
(1:43) Seriously???
(1:44) Where do you know this?
(1:45) Experiences.
(1:45) Righttt. With those games and others.
(1:46) Thank you anyway.
(1:46) I will try it.
(2:02) Did it work?
(2:03) Dokja?
(2:03) I guess it does
(2:03) Good night
(2:03) Also
(2:04) Don't forget to put some ice on that black eye.
(9:25) KIND SIRRRR
(9:25) THANK YOU FOR THE ADVICEEE
(9:25) I SLEEP WELL LAST NIGHT!!!
(9:26) Aren't you in class?
(9:26) Should you even be using your phone?
(9:27) And aren't you also in class?
(9:27) Why take the time to reply to me?
(9:28) The only explanation is because you cared about me.
(9:28) ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)
(9:29) Joonghyuk???
(9:30) You got caught or what??
(9:31) SHIT
(9:31) THE TEACHER SAW ME
(9:32) My stealthy is becoming rusty since I met you.
(18:23) Your face is funny.
(18:24) What?
(18:24) You look like you want to kill someone when you entered the detention class.
(18:25) And who is this person might be?
(18:25) It's you.
(18:26) Me???
(18:27) You're the reason I got caught in the first place.
(18:28) Don't reply to me then???
(18:28) Wait. On second thought....
(18:29) Don't.
(18:29) I like talking to you.
(18:30) Like, you're the only one who is sane enough in my circle of friends.
(18:31) I'm touched.
(18:31) I'll take that as a compliment.
(18:33) Dokja?
(18:33) Hello??
(18:31) Dokja. That is the second time you got detention.
(18:32) Should I be worried?
(18:32) Are you really in a gang?
(18:33) Dokja????
(18:33) Why aren't you replying?
(18:34) I'm worried man!!!
(18:35) Sorry.
(18:35) I fell down.
(18:36)????
(18:36) NOW I'M WORRIED.
(18:37) I TOLD YOU, YOU NEED TO HAVE A BETTER BIKE.
(18:38) That rusty one you have always give a heart attack with the sounds it produces.
(18:39) HEY!
(18:39) Don't disrespect Biyoo like that.
(18:40) ...
(18:40) Baby. Let's go to a doctor shall we?
(18:40) Why the hell did you name that rusty metal with a cute name??
(18:43) Awww
(18:43) You called me baby.
(18:43) I'm touched.
(18:44) You know what?
(18:44) Suit yourself.
(18:45) I don't care anymore.
(18:50) Sorry.
(18:51) I fell down from my bike.
(18:52) Like, before?
(18:53) Duhh. Obviously.
(18:53) I can't type while falling down can't I?
(18:54) You were typing while cycling???
(18:54) Indubitably.
(18:55) Dokja.
(18:56) That is not healthy.
(18:57) I just got scratches.
(18:57) Nothing serious.
(18:57) Though I'm touched someone is worried about me.
(18:58) ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)
(18:59) God...
(18:59) Just make sure to clean the wounds.
(19:00) Yes, kind sir!
(19:00) Why were you out in the first place?
(19:01) I like to cycle in the evening.
(19:01) Good for you then.
(19:02) ٩(｡•́‿•̀｡)۶
(20:45) Dokja????
(20:46) Why aren't you replying to my last message?
(20:46) I know I can be a demon sometimes.
(20:46) But I still have a heart.
(20:47) And this heart tells me something wrong is going on with you.
(20:53) I'm coming.
(22:10) MOM TOLD ME YOU CAME TO MY HOUSE????
(22:11) I already went back home.
(22:11) It's your fault for worrying me.
(22:11) She said you slept early.
(22:12) And oh! She gave me your guy's last batch of kimchii.
(22:13) Not only did you come uninvited.
(22:13) But you also stole from my house?
(22:14) Hey! Your mom gave it to me.
(22:14) Don't twist the story here!
(22:15) You know what?
(22:15) I want to sleep back.
(22:16) Night.
(22:17) Night!! See you tomorrow.
19/09/2024
(00:49) Kind sir.
(00:49) I can't sleep.
(00:49) I already drank hot milk. And tea.
(00:50) My stomach feels bloated.
(00:50) And I still can't sleep.
(00:51) You always have this problem aren't you?
(00:51) How did you manage all this time when I'm not even in your life yet?
(00:52) I don't.
(00:52) You don't what?
(00:53) I don't sleep.
(00:54) Then do that.
(00:55) Nooooo. Last time I don't sleep, I almost got C in Chemistry. Now, we don't want that.
(00:56) Contrast to your personality, you do care about your grades, huh?
(00:57) Just because you're a first class student, doesn't mean a second class student like me aren't smart like you.
(00:58) Then why weren't you in my class?
(00:59) 'cause first class always has this weird pressure.
(00:59) Like bad bad pressure. Not in a good way.
(01:00) True.
(01:00) I can vouch for that statement.
(01:01) Now back to your problem, want to listen to this music with me? It helps me to sleep before.
(01:01) Like on Discord. With you?
(01:02) Why not?
(01:03) No, I'm okay with it. But I'm not interrupting your beautiful sleep or anything, right?
(01:03) I can't sleep either. Just shut up and let's do this.
(01:04) (´｡• ᵕ •｡') ♡
(12:05) Hey, hey!!
(12:05) I'm hungry. What did you have for lunch??
(12:07) Why did you ask me?
(12:08) ???. 'cause I want to?
(12:09) Spaghetti bolognese.
(12:10) Wow! Where are you by the way?
(12:11) In my class. Eating.
(12:11) You brought it from home?
(12:12) I even made it myself.
(12:13) ???
(12:13) Seriously??
(12:13) I'm coming
(12:13) What?
(12:14) Dokja!
(12:15) Where are you?
(12:15) I don't see you in the cafeteria.
(12:15) In Joonghyuk's class.
(12:16) What?!
(12:17) Why???
(12:17) He has spaghetti.
(12:18) Just because of that??
(12:19) But when you mentioned it....
(12:19) Tell that guy I'm coming.
(12:20) Will do.
(12:20) ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)
(22:02) I hate both of you
(22:03) Who?
(22:03) You need to be verryyy specific.
(22:03) I'm just a clueless child D:
(22:04) You know what I'm trying to say.
(22:04) Just...
(22:05) Just tell me if you or Sooyoung wants to come and eat again.
(22:06) So I can prepare more.
(22:06) Enough for three people at least.
(22:07) Joonghyuk-ah.
(22:09) What?
(22:10) I don't know what to say...
(22:10) ??
(22:10) It's the least I can do instead letting you both devouring my next meal.
(22:11) And besides, it's just for a simple lunch. Don't you have someone do that for you from time to time?
(22:12) No, not really.
(22:13) Sooyoung doesn't know how to cook.
(22:13) Heewon always cook for her bf.
(22:14) Who's Heewon?
(22:14) My other friend.
(22:14) Oh.
(22:15) I guess I'm your first?
(22:16) You make it sounds so weird...
(22:17) How?
(22:17) Oh.
(22:18) You're the one who has a dirty mind????
(22:18) Oh, you're blaming me now???
(22:19) Whatever.
(22:19) So what are your likes and dislikes?
(22:20) Mmmm.
(22:21) I eat basically anything.
(22:22) Of course yo do.
(22:23) Except for tomato.
(22:23) But...
(22:23) The spaghetti this morning is based on tomato.
(22:24) Oh that...
(22:24) I meant literal tomato. Like slices in a meal and such. If it's been grounded to sauce, I don't mind that much.
(22:25) You're like Mia.
(22:25) Who?
(22:26) My sister.
(22:26) Ohhhh. The girl in the profile.
(22:27) I will take that as compliment.
(22:28) It's in fact, not a compliment.
(22:29) But you know what?
(22:29) Take it as you like. What makes you sleep at night.
(22:30) Ahahaahaha.
(22:32) Oh right, talking about sleep, do you want to do the same thing like last night?
(22:32) If you don't mind...
(22:33) I don't mind.
(22:34) Then let's do it.
(22:35) Let me get ready first.
(22:35) (´｡• ᵕ •｡') ♡
(00:21) Dokja?
(00:22) Hello?
(00:22) Asleep then?
(00:23) Good night.
Chapter 2: Chapter 2
Summary:
Kim Dokja
Yoo Joonghyuk
Han Sooyoung
Jung Heewon
Lee Hyunsung
Chapter Text
20/9/2024
(17:02) Emergency!!!!
(17:02) I need the assistance of kind sir!
(17:04) What is it?
(17:04) ??? I said emergency and you took your sweet time of 2 minutes to reply to me?
(17:05) Do you know what could happen in those minutes?
(17:05) I could die.
(17:05) Or even worse...
(17:05) There's worse?
(17:06) I pull everyone in this library with me into my own demise.
(17:06) Okay, that's worse.
(17:07) Sounds selfish to me though.
(17:07) How????
(17:07) If you die, just die. Don't involve everyone else.
(17:08) Has anyone told you, you're sooo apathetic?
(17:08) ???
(17:08) But I'm concerned towards those people. Is it not enough?
(17:09) No.
(17:09) You're not concerned about me.
(17:09) I gave you an answer for a more logical reason. Saving you over 20+ people in that library? Anyone would choose the latter.
(17:10) And my loved one will save and be concerned about me over those people.
(17:10) You know what? Let me ask Sooyoung.
(17:10) Does Sooyoung even like you?
(17:10) Hey? She loves me!!
(17:10) Right...
(17:10) >:(
(17:12) Update: actually that's the question my friends and I are having a debate with right now.
(17:13) Second update: Sooyoung said I'm not her top 2 priority.
(17:13) She said I'm not!!!!!
(17:13) Whose her top 2 huh???
(17:14) Her parents? Obviously?
(17:14) Right...
(17:15) Back to the question.
(17:15) Saving your loved one over a much larger total of people? Or the vice versa?
(17:15) Do I even need to answer? It's just a stupid debate among you people.
(17:16) Wait, is that why Sooyoung is on her phone when we're having a meeting?
(17:16) With that hard thinking face of hers?
(17:16) Because you guys are having a debate?
(17:17) What does she look like?
(17:18) IMAGE SENT
(17:18) She caught me taking her photo.
(17:18) IMAGE RECEIVED.
(17:19) AHAHAHAHA. She looks like she wants to kill you.
(17:19) Wait...
(17:19) Aren't you the one who conducted the meeting?
(17:19) Because you're the leader and all that, right?
(17:19) My turn to ask; are you allowed to use your phone when you're in a meeting that you conduct?
(17:20) Everyone is having a debate on this one decision we're discussing. So I guess they don't mind.
(17:20) Besides, what can they do even if they caught me using my phone?
(17:20) You're....
(17:20) Right...
(17:20) Though it sounds so smug seeing that line came from you.
(17:21) Shut up.
(17:21) To answer your question, I chose the former.
(17:22) ???
(17:22) Your loved one?
(17:22) But you said about me....
(17:23) You're not my loved one yet.
(17:23) I cannot risk saving you when I don't even know you fully.
(17:24) Awwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwqa
(17:24) All I'm hearing is you have the intention to include me in your loved people list.
(17:24) What???
(17:24) That's not what I said???
(17:24) Thank you Joonghyuk!!!
(17:24) I will deliver your vote in our debate.
(17:24) ...
(17:24) Suit yourself.
(17:20) IMAGE SENT
(17:20) IMAGE RECEIVED
(17:20) The hell Joonghyuk's grinning at?
(17:20) Who do you think he's texting?
(17:35) When was this?
(17:35) During the student council's meeting.
(17:26) We're almost finish though.
(17:27) ...
(17:27) I think...
(17:27) I'm the reason for it.
(17:28) ????
(17:28) Since when did you guys become so close????
(17:29) Since you gave me that wrong number.
(17:30) Eh? That wrong number is his ?
(17:30) How do you think I got his number in the first place????
(17:30) I don't know!!
(17:31) He's famous okay??!
(17:31) You can get his number everywhere.
(17:31) That's...
(17:32) Concerning on many different levels.
(17:32) I know.
(17:33) Oh, the debate with Heewon and Hyunsung. You and Heewon lose btw.
(17:34) WHAT?!!
(17:34) Who's the tie breaker?
(17:35) Joonghyuk.
(17:35) Oh, so that's why you guys were texting.
(17:36) Damn. Now that he's done texting, he's giving me this too-sharp side eye.
(17:37) Give my farewell to the others.
(17:37) Looks like this girl will get a beating from her boss.
(17:37) Lmao. Good luck.
(18:03) Done with the meeting?
(18:03) Yeah.
(18:03) Why with the message?
(18:04) IMAGE SENT
(18:04) You're grinning like an idiot.
(18:04) IMAGE RECEIVED
(18:04) I didn't know you liked my present that much.
(18:05) ٩(｡•́‿•̀｡)۶
(18:07) Like you have said before.
(18:07) You're the right amount of a funny friend.
(18:07) So I'm always reminded of that statement.
(18:08) By how you have behaved towards me these past few days is what I meant.
(18:09) All I can see is that; "I'm thinking of your smile even if we're having a weird discussion."
(18:09) >3
(18:10) The hell?
(18:10) You really have a way to twist someone's words.
(18:10) What can I say?
(18:10) I'm my mother's son.
(18:10) ٩(｡•́‿•̀｡)۶
(18:11) Joonghyuk???
(18:11) And nowwww he's missing.
(18:11) IMAGE SENT
(18:11) I didn't know you and Dokja are so close. To the point you priorotized your phone more over the meeting.
(18:11) IMAGE RECEIVED
(18:11) And not to mention, even sending the pic to Dokja.
(18:12) Oh my god...
(18:12) Just to be clear, you're on your phone too. And I'm sorry sir. It's just too weird to see you grinned like a little girl who is texting her crush.
(18:12) Everyone can grin??
(18:13) Yes. Except you.
(18:14) What is that supposed to mean?
(18:15) You always have this weird cold-face-thingy.
(18:15) Makes people afraid to talk to you.
(18:15) Why do you think your subordinates always pass their work to you using me?
(18:16) ...
(18:16) I don't think that far.
(18:16) I just thought everyone had their own thing to attend to.
(18:16) Well, at least you thought good about everyone.
(18:16) Just to clarify, it's weird to see you smile.
(18:16) Shut up.
(18:16) Anyway, is that all? I need to run some errands.
(18:17) Yeah.
(18:17) Alright
(18:17) Farewell, sir.
(19:00) Do you have a pet?
(19:02) What?
(19:02) Look up and read my message again.
(19:02) I have eyes. 'what' is just to make sure...
(19:02) Why?
(19:02) What's the sudden interest in me being engaged with a pet?
(19:03) I walked past your class today.
(19:03) And?
(19:03) Patient. I'm trying to find the right word.
(19:04) Just out with it already.
(19:04) I saw you looking through a tuxedo cat's photo on your phone.
(19:04) While a teacher was teaching up front.
(19:05) Shit.
(19:05) ???
(19:05) It's rare to see you say 'shit'.
(19:06) Oh-ho.
(19:06) Have I finally acquired a secret of the young Joonghyuk?
(19:07) Your choice of words are funny.
(19:07) And no, it's not a secret.
(19:08) It's just, if you know this fact about me, you will be pestering about it everyday.
(19:09) Don't worryyy
(19:09) My interest is in the fact that you're using your phone in class when the same said guy always reminds me; "we, as a student, need to be modest."
(19:10) I do not talk like that.
(19:11) Yes you are, kind sir.
(19:11) Just scroll up.
(19:11) Shut up.
(19:12) I'm right, am I?
(19:12) *Wink wink*
(19:12) Dokja, I swear to god.
(19:12) Just shut up already.
(19:13) Or what?
(19:13) 25th April.
(19:14) ??????????????????
(19:14) What's with that date?
(19:14) There's a rumor going around about a ghost in art's room and a student almost got sent to the hospital on the 25th .
(19:14) Because you know?
(19:14) Shocked.
(19:15) And...?
(19:15) What got anything to do with me?
(19:16) Seriously? You want to play dumb?
(19:17) I don't know what you're talking about???
(19:18) The teachers believe that the ghost is just a student who's messing around.
(19:18) And they are still trying to find that student.
(19:19) If I told them that you...
(19:20) FINE!
(19:20) HOW DID YOU EVEN KNOW I WAS THE GHOST???
(19:20) I TAKE IT BACK!
(19:20) YOU'RE NOT NEAR KIND.
(19:21) You're a monster!!!!!
(19:21) Well, that was easy.
(19:21) You're so easy to fall into this kind of trap.
(19:21) Ughhhhh
(19:22) Can you at least tell me how you know it was me?
(19:22) I didn't.
(19:22) Didn't what????
(19:22) I didn't know it was really you.
(19:23) It's just a guess.
(19:24) How????
(19:25) Remember how the ambulance came and things became moreeee
(19:25) Messed up? And the student council is the one who needs to calm and make sure all the students were in class?
(19:25) Yes?
(19:26) Sooyoung said you're missing. She just reported it to me but not to the teacher because you know...
(19:26) Again, shock.
(19:26) But also, because you told her you're still in school.
(19:27) And it just came to me that maybe, you're that student who were stuck in that art room.
(19:27) And the reaction you showed just now.
(19:27) Well, we can all conclude...
(19:28) But that doesn't mean I'm the ghost??? There were other students who went out of their class that day!!
(19:28) Oh.
(19:28) Sooyoung has mentioned you like to skip class and goes to the art room.
(19:28) To read some...
(19:28) Books?
(19:29) I sense a little bit of judgment.
(19:29) Maybe a little.
(19:30) AH-HAH!!
(19:30) And what the hell?
(19:31) You've been brainwashed with the Sherlock show or what when you're little?
(19:31) It's an easy guess.
(19:31) Or or
(19:31) You just aren't that capable in this kind of field.
(19:32) IMAGE SENT
(19:33) IMAGE RECEIVED
(19:33) You see how wide my mouth falls?
(19:33) Yeah. That's the level of speechlessness I'm in.
(19:34) Is 'speechlessness' even a word?
(19:34) Yess???
(19:35) Oh yeah. It is. Maybe because you're the one who uttered it that it sounds so ridiculous .
(19:35) IMAGE SENT
(19:35) IMAGE RECEIVED
(19:35) You see how agape that bird's mouth is?
(19:35) And look at my face at that side. We look the same right?
(19:35) That's because we both are completely in utter shock.
(19:36) Why are you still out????
(19:36) It's cold outside.
(19:36) I like the cold.
(19:36) I'm not stupid.
(19:36) That's not a reason for you to be out at this time.
(19:37) Kidding!
(19:37) Fine, sheeshhh.
(19:37) So the reason is...
(19:38) I don't feel like talking about it.
(19:38) Can we talk about something else?
(19:39) Sure.
(19:40) Camels have three eyelids.
(19:40) Whaaaaa???
(19:40) You like fun facts.
(19:41) This is the one I have learnt recently.
(19:41) Serious??? They have three???
(19:42) They even have a video that shows them.
(19:42) -Fun facts about camels-
(19:43) Oh my godddd
(19:43) How is that even possible??
(19:43) Ahahahahahaha
(19:44) But they look cute though.
(19:44) True.
(19:44) Thanks. That made my day.
(19:45) But I gotta go.
(19:45) I can hear my mom's calling.
(19:45) Talk later?
(19:45) Wait, where even are you?
(19:46) IMAGE SENT
(19:46) IMAGE RECEIVED
(19:46) At a park near my house.
(19:46) IMAGE SENT
(19:47) IMAGE RECEIVED
(19:47) I'm on a seesaw.
(19:47) The opposite seesaw's handle is where the bird was.
(19:48) God.
(19:48) You're not kidding when you said you're a funny guy.
(19:48) Lmao my mom's here.
(19:48) Adios kind sir.
(19:49) Bye.
(19:50) Ummm
(19:50) I came to your house because you said you need help with the preparation of our next meeting.
(19:50) IMAGE SENT
(19:50) So why are you smiling so fondly here???
(19:51) IMAGE RECEIVED
(19:52) You're literally in front of me???
(19:52) What's with the texting?
(19:53) Dramatic effect.
(19:53) ...
(19:53) Not your business to know.
(19:54) OH!
(19:54) IT'S BECAUSE OF DOKJA ISN'T IT???
(19:55) YOU WERE TEXTING HIM HUH???
(19:55) You like him don't you????
(19:55) I
(19:56) AM NOT?
(19:57) Just out with it. I'm not a judgemental person.
(19:57) ????
(19:57) It's the truth.
(19:58) Can't two guys become just mere friends?
(19:58) Mh-hmm ....
(19:58) Friends...
(19:59) Right...
(19:59) It's the truth???
(19:59) And what if the one I was texting was not him?
(19:59) Funny.
(20:00) You do know that I know you don't have any friend beside me? I mean, if you even consider me as a friend.
(20:00) I consider you as one, Sooyoung.
(20:01) ('｡• ᵕ •｡') ♡
(20:01) Just continue your task.
(20:01) Yes!
(23:18) Joonghyukkkk
(23:18) What is it?
(23:18) Music?
(23:19) That and other stuff.
(23:19) You still don't tell me whether you have a cat or not.
(23:19) I have.
(23:20) Only one.
(23:20) The tuxedo one?
(23:20) The tuxedo one.
(23:21) Awwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww
(23:21) Let me meet her next time.
(23:21) It's a him.
(23:21) Even better!
(23:21) I can make him into my subordinate.
(23:22) What subordinate?
(23:22) Subordinate of circus?
(23:22) ...
(23:23) It's because you don't want to drop that whole funny-friend thing huh?
(23:23) Shithead.
(23:24) Ahahahaha.
(23:24) Am I dreaming??????
(23:24) The famous Yoo Joonghyuk laugh at my wordsss????
(23:24) Shut up.
(23:25) Do you want me to help you to sleep or not?
(23:25) On second thought, I am in fact dreaming.
(23:25) You go first. I want to brush my teeth a sec.
(23:26) Ok.
21/9/2024
(01:03) You're asleep?
(01:07) Guess you are.
(01:07) Good night.
(18:55) Sooyoung.
(18:55) Yesss???
(18:55) Do you know whether Dokja's busy with something?
(18:55) Why? He doesn't reply to your messages?
(18:55) No, it's because he doesn't even send a message.
(18:56) Oh.
(18:56) It's Saturday today, right?
(18:56) As far as I know...
(18:57) He always has a problem on weekends, so yeah.
(18:57) Going to be a little bit of busy.
(18:58) If you want the details, ask him directly.
(18:58) Thanks
(18:58) No prob.
(23:00) It's concerning that you're so quite today.
(23:01) Talk to me if something happen.
22/9/2024
(10:59) Sorryyy
(11:00) Forgot to inform you I'm going to be MIA for a couple of days.
(11:00) Don't think about me too much >:3
(11:00) Well, at least you sounded okay.
(11:01) Good luck with...
(11:01) Whatever you're dealing with.
(15:04) Oh thank you.
(15:06) No prob.
(17:09) Dokja?
(17:09) Sooyoung said she can't reach you.
(17:09) Are you okay?
(17:10) I mean even if you're not, please take care of yourself.
(17:11) Dudeeee.
INCOMING CALL FROM 'MY BELOVED'
MISSING CALL FROM 'MY BELOVED'
(17:11) Joonghyuk at least got a few messages outta you.
(17:11) Take care dude. I'm worried.
(17:11) Really.
(18:05) You didn't reply to Heewon's messages.
(18:05) Or even Sooyoung's.
(18:05) I'm just worried, that's all.
(23:11) Sorry. A little busy this morning.
(23:11) I'm good though. Thanks for asking.
(23:11) Don't worry about it :)
(23:13) Wow. Dramatic much.
(23:13) I'm okay though >:)
(23:14) Thank god! Don't scare me like that!!!
(23:14) :))
(23:15) Awww. Heewon's worried about me.
(23:15) Is this a dream???
(23:15) ...
(23:15) I don't want to care about you no more.
(23:15) Ahahahahhaaha. Kiddingggg
(23:15) I'm good!!
(23:16) Yeah...
23/9/2024
(10:46) Is that a big ass chicken at the back of our class??
(10:46) I feel a bad vibe from that thing....
(10:46) Why the hell the teachers aren't doing anything?
(10:46) Maybe because that thing is keeping its mouth shut unlike someone.
(10:46) I'm not even talking????
(10:47) Your whole body is shaking. Holding a laugh I presume?
(10:47) Damn you're good.
(10:48) Anyone with eyes can see.
(10:48) Shut up.
(10:48) But you're right...
(10:49) I can feel that thing staring into my soul.
(10:49) You're not even looking at it!!!
(10:50) I just can feel it.
(10:50) How about you take a peek and see where that chicken is staring?
(10:51) MANXBCNSKSKANA
(10:51) IT'S STARING AT YOU!!!
(10:52) I TOLD YOU!!!
(10:52) AND NOW IT'S STARING AT ME!!!
(10:52) EWWWW
(10:52) WHY THE HELL HE LOOKS LIKE THAT NOW????
(10:53) LIKE WHAT BROOO
(10:53) Like I'm its next meal or some shit.
(10:54) You know what?
(10:54) Good luck with that thing staring at you.
(10:55) NOOOO
(10:55) IT'S ALL YOUR FAULT!!
(10:55) YOU'RE THE ONE WHO ASKED ME TO LOOK AT THAT FREAKING CHICKEN!!!!
(10:56) Mah bad.
(10:57) I'm hearing it wrong right?
(10:57) Why the owner just said THE CHICKEN ESCAPES????
(10:57) SHIT THAT THING COMES TO YOUUU!!
(10:57) WHAT??????!!!!
(11:17) Why your class are so loud?
(11:08) And why the hell I just saw you're running past my class with a freaking chicken ahead of you???
(11:10) Dokja???
(11:14) Can't talk.
(11:14) Bixya
(11:20) Is that supposed to be 'busy'
(11:20) Somehow, I have this gut feeling that you're the one who's causing havoc.
(12:17) Excuse me?????
(12:17) Good, you're alive.
(12:17) Someone else's fault this time! Not me!
(12:17) Though the last time a rat came into our class was maybe a little bit part of my fault.
(12:18) What?
(12:18) Just a little!
(12:18) I don't even want to know....
(12:18) Just...
(12:19) What happened?
(12:19) So you see, where are you first?
(12:19) Oh. It's almost lunch break.
(12:19) I'm in class. I even made some extra fried rice for you.
(12:19) Reallyyyyy????
(12:19) ('｡• ᵕ •｡') ♡
(12:20) I'm on my way.
(12:20) Anywayyyy. The story is that one of my classmates brought his pet today.
(12:20) The chicken?
(12:20) The chicken.
(12:20) Said that his family is moving out and he doesn't know where to put the chicken.
(12:20) Long story short, he brought that chicken to school.
(12:22) It escaped and ran after me.
(12:22) But I ran after him back.
(12:23) Thus conclude why you saw me chasing after a chicken.
(12:23) I almost arrive btw.
(12:24) God...
(12:24) Not one moment that your life is dull.
(12:24) EASY FOR YOU TO SAY!!
(12:24) I'M THE ONE WHO HAS BEEN CHASED BY A CHICKEN!!!
(12:24) YES MY LIFE IS NOT DULL BUT AT WHAT COST????
(12:25) Why did that thing even target you?
(12:25) I don't know.
(12:25) Maybe mother's nature is giving me some kind of a sign.
(12:25) Ohhh I have arrived
(12:26) Alright come in.
(12:36) I heard someone was ran by a chicken.
(12:36) Where do you know this???
(12:36) And it's not run. I got chased.
(12:36) Whatever.
(12:37) Where are you?
(12:37) I want to hear the full story.
(12:37) Kind of one of those things I need to hear in person to laugh at your ass for.
(12:37) In class.
(12:38) Cominggg.
(12:38) Oh not mine though.
(12:38) Joonghyuk's.
(12:38) Am I seeing this wrong??
(12:38) You're in another class for what?
(12:38) There's a friend there?
(12:39) ?? I mentioned the name Joonghyuk. Of course the friend is him.
(12:39) FOR REAL??
(12:39) LIKE THE REAL DEAL??
(12:40) Why does everyone make it sounds that it hards to befriend that guy?
(12:40) Besidesss
(12:40) IMAGE SENT
(12:41) Food.
(12:42) IMAGE RECEIVED
(12:42) Who doesn't like to be friend with him is reallyyy missing out.
(12:42) For one, it's indeed hard to friend that guy. He's too cold.
(12:42) Second, HE MADE THOSE???
(12:42) Obviously.
(12:42) You guys have any extra?
(12:43) Sooyoung can't come today so I guess you can take her part.
(12:43) SOOYOUNG IS ALSO INVOLVED IN THIS LUNCH SCHEME???
(12:44) I'm really on my way now.
(16:00) Want to go to the mart on the way home?
(16:00) Cannot. Me, sleepy.
(16:00) The hell? Talk normally.
(16:00) Tired. I don't think these legs of mine can take me anywhere else except home.
(16:01) Dramatic much?
(16:01) Lol Maybe a little.
(16:03) Sorry to bring this up but I think I have the right to ask.
(16:03) Your face looks okay today.
(16:03) He's finally doing good?
(16:03) Nah.
(16:03) Just avoid the visible place to the public it's all.
(16:03) YOU'RE SAYING YOU STILL HAVE MESSED UP STUFFS ON YOUR BODY???
(16:04) It's just bruises.
(16:04) I always have them???
(16:05) Doesn't mean it's a normal stuff to have.
(16:05) You do know it's not normal right?
(16:05) 'cause even though you're experiencing it every week, doesn't mean you need to make it as a habit.
(16:06) Can we talk about something else?
(16:06) No dokja...
(16:06) Just listen to me.
(16:07) I'm worried about you.
(16:07) And I don't you to suffer anymore.
(16:07) Why are you being like this?
(16:07) So stubborn to report or anything.
(16:08) Sooyoung....
(16:08) Okay okay!!
(16:08) Just promise me you get a lot of rest once you reach home.
(16:08) Promise.
(16:09) Love you >:((
(16:09) Lol me too.
(19:13) Hey hey.
(19:13) You're doing live today?
(19:14) Oh right.
(19:14) Want to tell you later on.
(19:14) Yes I'm doing it tonight.
(19:15) :D
(19:15) Can I watch it?
(19:15) ???
(19:16) Just watch it then?
(19:16) Live's meant for public.
(19:16) What can I even do if I said 'no'?
(19:17) I don't know.
(19:17) Feels illegal to watch that thing without your permission.
(19:17) Unbelievable.
(19:17) Whattt???
(19:18) You feel guilty now but you didn't when you spamed me on my last live?
(19:18) To the point I'm being accused of having a girlfriend?
(19:18) Oh no....
(19:18) I totally forgot about that.
(19:19) AHAHAHAHA.
(19:19) Worth it though. Now every girl in your class will be pestering you everyday.
(19:19) About 'gf'.
(19:20) I can even imagine every possible conversation that can be played out.
(19:20) Oh my god.
(19:20) I didn't know you doesn't even have some kind of remorse towards this situation.
(19:20) Don't watch this live then.
(19:21) But but buttttt
(19:21) You brought this to yourself.
(19:21) Okay okay!
(19:21) I'm sorry kind sir...
(19:22) ...
(19:22) Fine.
(19:22) I forgive you.
(19:22) YEAY!
(19:22) Anyway, how's the tuxedo?
(19:22) My cat?
(19:22) Uh-huh.
(19:23) He has a name you know.
(19:23) But you never tell meeee
(19:23) I never?
(19:23) Duh?
(19:23) Just so you know, Mia is the one who named him.
(19:23) It's Wolverine.
(19:24) Wolverine?
(19:24) As in that Marvel character?
(19:24) Or the literal wolverine?
(19:25) The marvel one.
(19:25) She's got a good taste I tell you.
(19:25) It's because you like Marvel too don't you?
(19:25) *Gasp* D:
(19:25) Lmao yeah.
(19:25) Can't deny that.
(19:26) Give my love to Mia.
(19:26) *Wink*
(19:26) For what? She doesn't even know you.
(19:27) But she has saw my pictureeee.
(19:27) Yes but not the guy in person.
(19:27) >:(
(19:27) Give my love to Wolverine then.
(19:27) Orrr Wolvy???
(19:27) Sounds niceeee.
(19:29) VOICE MESSAGE SENT
(19:35) Who taught her all those terms?????
(19:30) IT'S YOU ISN'T IT???!!!
(19:30) SHE EVEN SAID SHE WANTS TO KILL ME!!
(19:31) IN VARIOUS DIFFERENT WAYS???
(19:31) You disrespect her cat's name.
(19:31) And no. I'm not responsible for her way of words. The Internet, maybe?
(19:32) I can't help you btw. This is your fight unfortunately.
(19:32) ;(((
(19:32) Either wayyyy. Give my love to her.
(19:32) No.
(19:33) ('｡• ᵕ •｡') ♡
22:18) You're already live?????
(22:18) You always start at 10. Or later than that!
(22:18) Why the hell you started it early???
(22:19) >:(
(22:19) I hate you.
(22:19) Hate.
(22:19) Hate.
(22:19) Hate.
(22:19) Wait...
(22:20) Hate...
(22:20) I always hate, hate, hate when you running around.
(22:20) AHAHAHAHAHA
(22:20) Jut got reminded by a certain song.
(22:21) But hey, why aren't you muting your phone???
(22:21) Now everyone would really think you have a gf :(
(22:21) Well, I'm okay with it if you're okay with it.
(22:21) These are just words of concern from your sincere friend, Dokja.
(22:22) ('｡• ᵕ •｡') ♡
(22:24) Wait Joonghyuk...
(22:24) Why the hell you said 'I need to take this'???
(22:24) THERE'S NOTHING TO TAKE!!!
(22:24) I'M JUST SENDING SILLY MESSAGES
(22:24) JUST FINISH THE DAMN GAME!!!
(22:25) God...
(22:25) 'It's someone close to me.' Mind you I'm making fun of you here.
(22:25) The hell is that supposed to mean????
(22:25) You know what? I'm just gonna sleep.
(22:39) Congrats.
(23:39) You're officially Joonghyuk's gf.
(23:39) NO I AM NOT!
(23:40) Say that to that thousand viewers of his.
(23:40) Don't worry.
(23:40) You will live.
(23:40) Shuuuut uppppp
(23:41) >:)
(23:56) Hahahaahaha.
(23:56) Worth it.
(23:56) Didn't know you will be this embarrassed though.
(23:56) :)
(23:57) You're unbelievable...
(23:57) Why did you do that???
(23:57) Now everyone will ask you about that 'gf' every day!!
(23:58) I don't care that much.
(23:58) Right.
(23:58) And here I'm concerned for you.
(23:58) Awww I appreciate it though :)
(23:59) Ughhhhh
(23:59) Good night.
(23:59) Ughhhhh
(23:59) Night night.
24/9/2024
(14:08) Hey, isn't there anything fun going on with your class?
(14:08) Or are you guys just know only how to study?
(14:09) Well, I'm not what people can call as 'fun'.
(14:09) Rightt...
(14:09) Forgot who I'm talking with for a moment.
(14:10) ???
(14:10) Says someone who needs animals to entertain his days.
(14:11) *GASP* (I know, dramatic much.)
(14:11) BUT THAT JUST ONE TIME!
(14:11) And that chicken wasn't even mine!!!
(14:11) Well, let's ask that thing in person on why he chased you, shall we?
(14:12) Okay, in my defense, that's the will of mother's nature.
(14:12) If somehow being chased by a chicken will lead me into something greater.
(14:12) Then let it be.
(14:12) Mmmmmm
(14:13) Waiting to accept your fate then?
(14:13) Yep, dramatic much. I agree.
(14:13) Heyyyyy
(14:13) I know I admit it myself but don't solely agree with it.
(14:14) But you are dramatic.
(14:15) I...
(14:15) You know what?
(14:15) Just shut up.
(14:15) Ohhh. Forgot to ask but how's Mia?
(14:16) What do you mean?
(14:16) It's exactly what I meant. How does she capable to live with someone like you?
(14:16) Like me?
(14:16) Someone who knows how to get on a person's nerve.
(14:16) And I'm on my last straw here.
(14:16) You're lucky I'm a good guy.
(14:16) ٩(｡•́‿•̀｡)۶
(14:17) Or what?
(14:17) I'm not trying to be cocky here...
(14:17) But I know a little bit of dark magic.
(14:18) You know, voodoo and stuffs.
(14:18) >:)
(14:18) I....
(14:18) Oh no...
(14:18) I'm afraid....
(14:18) AHAHAHAHAHA.
(14:19) Oh my god. Your reaction is soooo funny.
(14:19) Oh, talking about voodoo, do you want me to help you with sleep tonight?
(14:19) ????
(14:19) What's voodoo got anything to do with sleep???
(14:20) Voodoo equal hurting people, hurting people equal making them unconscious, unconscious equal sleep.
(14:21) I
(14:21) I see...
(14:21) It's fascinating how that brain of yours even work.
(14:22) Well, thank you.
(14:22) That's not a compliment.
(14:22) I rather take it as one.
(14:22) Suit yourself???
(14:22) About that sleep.
(14:23) Oh! I'm good maybe.
(14:23) Maybe?
(14:23) Yep! I will try your method on my own. I'm trying hard not to disturb you as much as I can.
(14:23) I don't mind though.
(14:24) Even though I'm touched, I still have my own ego. So it's okay. I'll text you if I can't.
(14:24) Alright...
(14:25) Awww. Don't be too disappointed.
٩(｡•́‿•̀｡)۶.
(14:25) I'm not.
(14:25) Yeah yeah.
(14:26) Gotta run some errands. Talk later?
(14:26) Yeah. Bye.
(14:27) :)
(23:47) Dokja?
(23:47) You good?
(23:47) OK or KO?
(23:55) ...
(23:55) Asleep huh?
(23:55) Good for you.
(23:55) Good night.
Chapter Text
25/9/2024
(9:00) Uh-hum.
(9:02) What?
(9:02) Thee brought candy and ate it without me?
(9:02) I saw you taking out something and shoved it up your mouth.
(9:02) It's creepy how so observe you are in this kind of thing.
(9:03) You damn. Just give it to me....
(9:03) Me is hungry.....
(9:13) Not funny. Why the hell you threw the candy????
(9:14) I thought you wanted some?
(9:14) Is that not it?
(9:14) BUT YOU COULDN'T DO IT LIKE A NORMAL PERSON?????
(9:15) Hey.... Now that I think about it, how do you have your phone?
(9:16) Don't change the subject.
(9:16) Okay, the first is really my fault. And it's funny to see the candy hit the teacher's head along the way.
(9:16) Okay yeah. That part is funny.
(9:17) Now, answer my freaking question. How the hell do you have your phone?
(9:17) You also have yours. I don't feel inclined to answer your question >:(
(9:18) Damn you and your grammar.
(9:18) Wait.
(9:18) The teacher's walking towards you??
(9:19) This is all your fault I tell you.
(14:02) Oh my god....
(14:02) I'm so sorryyyy
(14:02) I didn't know Sir Han would scold you like that.
(14:03) Like, why is he so harsh on you???
(14:03) Dokja???
(14:10) IMAGE SENT
(14:10) IMAGE RECEIVED
(14:11) Noooooo
(14:11) Don't just send me your ugly middle finger and leave like that!!!
(14:12) Shut up.
(14:12) I hate you.
(14:12) I've said I'm sorryyy :((((
(14:13) Shit.
(14:13) And why the hell is that guy always harsher on me?
(14:13) Damn all.
(14:13) Okay okay. How about tteokbokki after school?
(14:13) You owe me two plates.
(14:14) Whaa :((((
(14:14) Fineee :(
(14:14) :)
(17:02) IMAGE SENT
( 17:02) IMAGE RECEIVED
(17:02) Woahhh . Creepy.
(17:02) Please stop taking your friends' picture without their permission.
(17:02) AHAHAHAHA.
(17:02) Can you stay where you are? I'm coming.
(17:03) What? Why?
(17:03) Just stay Hyunsung.
(17:03) You will know when I arrive.
(17:03) But...
(17:04) I don't look that far from the position you took the picture.
( 17:04) I think...?
(17:04) So why does your text sounds like that?
(17:04) Believe me.
(17:04) I'm far.
(17:04) Like realllkyshekl
(17:05) Dokja?
(17:05) Dokja?????
(17:10) Sorry.
(17:10) Fell off.
(17:11) We're in the middle of a parkkk
(17:11) How the hell did you fell off from your damn bike??
(17:12) You remember the bridge?
(17:12) The one you need to go through to get to this place?
(17:12) Yeah.
(17:12) I fell.
(17:12) From the bridge...
(17:12) ????
(17:12) You are that far???
(17:14) Wait I see you.
(17:14) God Dokja!!
(17:14) Your right arm looks like you've been punched.
(17:14) Yeah about that.
(17:14) I fell on my arm.
(17:14) Dokja...
(17:14) Let's treat that thing before...
(17:14) Whatever other thing you want to ask from me.
(17:15) Yeah...
(17:15) I need to agree with you in this one.
(17:15) My arm hurts like hell.
(17:59) Seriously?
(17:59) An ice cream.
(17:59) That's all you wanted after....
(17:359) Falling off and all that?
(17:59) Worth it though.
(17:59) Is it?
(18:00) The doctor says you fractured your freaking arm.
(18:00) AND HOW THE DAMN HELL DID YOU EVEN REPLY TO ME???
(18:00) Skill.
(18:01) Though it takes more time to even write a sentence.
(18:01) That's it. Phone off.
(18:01) Now.
(18:01) Geez. Daddy?
(18:02) Not funny Dokja.
(18:02) I mean you're kind of being a dad figure right now.
(18:03) I don't hate the love.
(18:03) Let it all out daddy :)
(18:03) Before I turn back and break another arm, better you shut your mouth and go to sleep.
(18:04) Sheeshh
(18:04) Fineee
(19:20) IMAGE SENT
(19:20) Yo yo yo looks who's back!!!
(19:21) IMAGE RECEIVED
(19:21) Damn.
(19:21) That looks rough.
(19:21) What the hell happened?
(19:21) I fell.
(19:21) From a bike?
(19:21) Yeah.
(19:21) The same one before?
(19:22) Uh-huh.
(19:22) Sorry to say this but I think someone put a curse on that damn thing.
(19:22) Hey!
(19:22) Rude!!
(19:23) We've been together for more than 10 years :(((
(19:23) If there's been a curse, I will know it.
(19:23) I think you're just blind.
(19:24) The evidence is right there but you just choose to ignore it.
(19:25) Wellll
(19:25) It's a nature to fall off your own bike.
(19:25) You've got to say nothing for someone who doesn't have one >:(
(19:25) I do have one.
(19:25) But it's not like I fell off every second someone is not looking at me.
(19:25) ....
(19:26) You know what?
(19:26) I don't want to blame my Biyoo.
(19:26) This is all sincerely my own fault.
(19:26) You named it Biyoo ?
(19:27) Creepy as hell.
(19:27) That thing is your child or something?
(19:27) IT IS MY CHILD.
(19:27) You don't know nothing.
(19:27) Okay....
(19:27) Anyway.
(19:27) You texted me just in need to disturb someone or...?
(19:28) Right.
(19:28) I'm kind of....
(19:28) Stuck in something big.
(19:28) Remember when I said I broke my arm?
(19:28) Yeah about that.
(19:28) How can you even type?
(19:29) My speciality. Anyway. Focus!
(19:29) ...
(19:29) Listen, I'm even feeling bad right now but you're the only one I feel comfortable to ask for this.
(19:29) Okay...?
(19:30) Can I crash at your place?
(19:30) ??
(19:30) Why?
(19:30) Later.
(19:31) It's a long story.
(19:31) Hard to type with this cast on.
(19:31) I mean I don't mind. But Mia's also here.
(19:33) Yeah, okay. I don't care.
(19:33) But ummm
(19:33) Can you pick me up?
(19:33) ???
INCOMING CALL FROM 'KIND SIR'
RECEIVING CALL FROM 'KIND SIR'
----
"Halu." My voice cracks so bad it could've been mistaken for a dying goose. Perfect. Thanks, Joonghyuk. This is all your fault. If you hadn't called, I wouldn't have to pick up, pretending to be polite. But no, I need your stupid house to crash in tonight, so here I am, fumbling over myself to sound halfway normal.
I clear my throat and try again. "Yello?"
"Is that how you always greet people?"
I let out a weak chuckle, the sound catching me off guard. How does one sentence from him manage to pull me out of the pit I've been sitting in all day? It's not like he said anything profound, but there's something in his tone—a steady warmth under the usual bite—that feels oddly... grounding. Comforting.
And his voice... Has it always been this nice? Or is it the phone, softening the edges just enough to make it sound like he actually cares? Maybe it's just me being ridiculous.
"Where are you?" he asks, sharper this time, like he already knows something's off.
"Wha...?" The word slurs out of my mouth, heavy and clumsy. I swear, I'm not normally like this. Maybe it's the cold—the way it's wormed its way into my bones, making my entire body feel sluggish. Words are harder when you can't feel your lips.
"Dokja." His tone cuts through the haze, firm and commanding now. "Where are you?"
"Sheesh. Relax, would you?" I mutter, tugging my bag closer to my chest as if it'll do anything against the biting wind. I glance around, trying to find a landmark he'd recognize. My teeth chatter as I answer, "You know the bridge before the park?"
"Yes?" There's something new in his voice now—an edge of worry that wasn't there before. Joonghyuk doesn't do worry, so the sound feels wrong, like it doesn't belong to him.
"I'm there... at the edge."
"What—" His voice cuts off abruptly, replaced by the low hum of silence.
I frown, pulling the phone away from my ear. The screen stares back at me, blank and lifeless. Dead battery. Of course. The cherry on top of this disaster sundae.
Sighing, I shove the phone into my bag and turn back toward the lake. The water ripples gently, reflecting the dim glow of the moon. A bird skims across the surface, trying—and failing—to catch insects. It's... oddly amusing. "They look funny," I mumble to myself, the words fogging in the frigid air.
"Dokja!"
The voice snaps me out of my daze. I whip my head around too fast, and the world tilts sideways. My stomach churns in protest, and I blink hard, trying to steady myself. When my vision clears, there he is: Joonghyuk, striding toward me like he's marching into battle. In shorts and a T-shirt. In the middle of winter.
I squint at him. "What the hell...?" My voice is barely above a rasp, but the disbelief gets through. As he crouches in front of me, I manage a weak, wheezy laugh. "Pfft. What are you wearing?"
Joonghyuk doesn't dignify that with an answer. His face twists in something halfway between frustration and... concern? His hands come up to cup my cheeks, and I flinch at the sudden warmth. His palms are solid, steady—everything I'm not right now.
"You're freezing," he mutters, his voice low and tight. "Why are you out here?"
I blink at him, struggling to piece together an answer. Why am I out here? The memory is foggy, buried under the layers of cold and exhaustion. Something about Mom. And yelling. And—oh. Right. She was mad. Really mad. The kind of mad that twists your insides and makes you want to disappear.
"Long story," I mumble, my gaze dropping to the ground. The asphalt beneath us is slushy and gray, the kind of gross that matches how I feel.
Joonghyuk doesn't push for more. "Right." His voice is clipped, his jaw tight, and before I can react, he hauls me to my feet. The sudden motion sends my head spinning, and my body reacts before my brain catches up. I lurch forward, doubling over the railing as what's left of my stomach empties into the lake.
Gross. And humiliating. Great combo.
"....kja. Dokja!" His voice is louder now, almost frantic. Hands grip my shoulders, steadying me as I wipe my mouth with a shaking hand.
I turn to face him, expecting annoyance, maybe even anger, but all I see is worry. It's written all over his face—the furrowed brows, the tight line of his mouth, the way his eyes search mine like he's trying to figure out how to fix this.
"I'm... I don't know," I admit, my voice is barely audible. "I think I'm fine?"
Joonghyuk snorts, the sound harsh and disbelieving. "You're not fine, bird brain."
I blink at him. Bird brain? Really? My lips twitch, the ghost of a smile threatening to break through. Then you're what? A sunfish?
His brows knit together, and for a moment, he looks genuinely offended. "I'm not a sunfish."
Oh. Did I say that out loud? Oops.
"God, Dokja," he mutters, shaking his head. His hands return to my cheeks, his thumbs brushing over the cold skin like he's trying to warm me up by sheer willpower. "You're so—" He cuts himself off with a frustrated noise, dropping one hand to grab my wrist.
A black car rolls up, its headlights slicing through the dark. Joonghyuk doesn't let go as he leads me toward it, his grip firm but not rough. For once, I don't argue.
Joonghyuk doesn't waste a word when we reach the car. He just opens the passenger seat and jerks his head toward it. Subtle. I shuffle in without protest. The moment the door clicks shut behind me, he's circling the car to the driver's side. The engine rumbles to life, but instead of driving, he just... stares at the road ahead.
I'm shivering so hard it feels like my teeth are trying to break free. Meanwhile, he's taking his sweet time, looking like the picture of calm while I'm over here trying not to turn into a popsicle. Before I can complain, Joonghyuk reaches out and presses a button. Warmth floods the seat beneath me, and I sink into it with a low groan of relief.
The heat makes it easier to breathe, easier to think. I close my eyes, letting the warmth spread through me like sunlight on frozen skin. For a moment, it feels like everything might be okay. But then something warm touches my forehead, and my eyes snap open. I glance sideways, meeting Joonghyuk's steady gaze. His hand lingers there for a second longer before he pulls it back.
"You're burning up," he says flatly, turning his attention to the wheel. Without another word, he puts the car into gear and starts driving.
The silence stretches between us, heavy but not uncomfortable. I lean back against the seat, watching the city lights blur past the window. The heat from the car seeps into my frozen limbs, but the chill inside me feels harder to thaw. We've been driving for a few minutes when Joonghyuk finally breaks the silence.
"Why were you out there?" His voice is low, but the sharp edge in his tone makes it clear this isn't just small talk.
"I..." My hands fidget in my lap, twisting together as I try to find the words. But nothing feels right. Nothing feels true. "I don't feel like talking about it."
His fingers tap an impatient rhythm against the steering wheel. He lets out a heavy sigh, the kind that carries the weight of words he won't say. Finally, he glances at me out of the corner of his eye. "Fine. But you're not going to class tomorrow. Stay at my place. Just... stay until whatever's going on is settled."
I nod once, the movement sluggish. "Thanks," I murmur, but before I can get the full word out, he interrupts.
"And take a shower. I'll help you with it."
"What?!" I rasp, my voice cracking with indignation. "No way—"
"You're in no condition to do it yourself," he cuts in, deadpan. "Worst case scenario, you pass out and drown in my bathtub."
I blink. "You have a tub?"
Joonghyuk shoots me a sidelong glance, his expression torn between disbelief and exasperation. "Yeah," he says slowly, like he's questioning my priorities. "Anyway. After that, eat something. Then sleep. Got it?"
"Got it..." I mumble, the word trailing off as exhaustion tugs at the edges of my consciousness.
----
Hyung is not a cold person. People say that about him sometimes, but I know better. He's quiet, sure, and maybe a little harsh when he speaks, but beneath all that? He cares. Just... not about everyone.
Right now, though, I can see that caring side of him on full display. He's on the phone, pacing the living room, his voice tense in a way I don't hear often. Not angry, but... worried. Like, actually worried. The kind of worried you get when someone close to you is in real trouble.
When Hyung hangs up and bolts out the door, I know whoever was on the other end of that call is important. More important than I've ever seen him admit.
Half an hour later, the front door bangs open, and Hyung comes back in, supporting someone who looks like... well, like they just clawed their way out of a grave. The guy is pale, his cheeks flushed red. He can barely stand, and his eyes are half-lidded, like he's two seconds away from passing out.
"Mia, it's late. You should be in bed," Hyung says, not even breaking the stride as he helps the guy to a chair at the dining table.
I glance at the clock. 8:03. Not exactly late, but I don't argue. "Alright," I say, my voice soft. Hyung doesn't need me hovering right now. But as I climb the stairs, curiosity gets the better of me, and I pause halfway up, peeking through the banister.
Hyung is in the kitchen, heating up the leftovers from dinner. He brings out a plate of lasagna and a steaming mug of tea, setting them in front of the guy. The guy mumbles something—probably a thank you—before picking at the food. Despite how sick he looks, he finishes it all. Good. That's the least he can do after Hyung went out of his way for him.
When they're done, Hyung helps him to his feet, but the guy tries to brush him off. It's weak, more of a token protest than anything else, and Hyung doesn't let go. He half-drags, half-carries the guy toward the bathroom, and I follow quietly, stopping outside the slightly ajar door.
Through the crack, I see Hyung crouched next to him, brushing damp hair out of his face. The guy leans heavily against Hyung, his breaths coming shallow and uneven. Hyung says something about 'burning up' and all that along the way. The guy caught a fever then? 'cause Hyung always becomes like this whenever I caught a cold back then. Though Hyung's voice is also softer than usual, almost gentle.
When Hyung lifts the guy and lowers him into the tub, I take it as my cue to leave. Whatever's going on, it's serious. Serious enough for Hyung to drop everything for this guy.
Whoever he is, he must be really important.
----
I take it back. This new guy isn't as important as I thought. In fact, he's downright annoying. He's disrupted my beauty sleep, which—let's be honest—is the most sacred thing in my life. So now I'm grumpy, glaring at the ceiling at 3 in the morning while chaos unfolds down the hall.
It starts with muffled sounds, shuffling footsteps, and Hyung's rare frantic tone. Hyung, frantic. That's a combo you don't see every day, or ever. My curiosity outweighs my irritation, so I sneak out of bed to investigate. By the time I peek out, Hyung's coming back up the stairs with a glass and a jug of water in hand, looking like a man on a mission.
What the hell is going on?
I creep toward his room, and the sight inside makes me stop dead. There's Hyung, leaning against the headboard, his arm wrapped securely around the new guy, who's slumped sideways, his head resting on Hyung's shoulder. It's... weird. Comforting, almost. Hyung's voice is low, soothing, as he whispers something I can't hear and gently combs his fingers through the guy's hair.
That guy is so lucky.
Hyung doesn't even do that for me anymore. And I know it feels good, too, because he used to do it when I was younger. The warmth in his touch, the way his hand moves in slow, repetitive strokes—it's enough to calm anyone down.
I watch as Hyung grabs the glass of water and holds it to the guy's lips, murmuring something encouraging. The guy manages a couple of weak sips before tilting his head away, clearly done. Hyung sets the glass aside, adjusts his position, and shifts further into the bed, bringing the guy's body closer, more securely against him.
And then, Hyung starts singing.
It's not just any song—it's mom's song. The one she used to hum when she tucked us in at night. The one that always made me feel safe, no matter what kind of day I had. And Hyung only ever sings it for family. Only me.
This... this is serious.
The words spill out of my mouth before I can stop them. "Is he okay?" My voice sounds strange even to me, softer than usual. I'm surprised I asked at all.
Hyung looks up, startled, his gaze darting between me and the guy he's holding. For a second, he hesitates, his lips pressing into a thin line like he's trying to decide if he should stand or stay put. Finally, he just nods for me to come in.
I step inside the room, stopping at the bedside. Hyung reaches out, brushing my bangs aside and touching my forehead lightly. It's a habit of his, something he does whenever he's anxious—like he needs to reassure himself that I'm fine.
"He's not..." Hyung starts, his voice barely above a whisper. "You know when you'd have a bad dream, and I'd sing mom's song to help you fall asleep? He... he really needs it tonight."
I nod slowly, my gaze shifting to the guy resting against Hyung. His breathing, once shallow and erratic, is now steady. Whatever Hyung's doing, it's working.
"Can I come in?" I ask quietly.
Hyung smiles—just a little, but it's enough. He nods, and I climb onto the bed, settling on the other side of his friend. The room feels warm, almost peaceful, despite everything.
"I hope he's okay," I murmur, my voice barely audible.
Hyung glances down at the guy in his arms, his brows knitting together. He looks worried in a way I don't see often. The kind of worry that comes from caring too much.
"Yeah," he says softly, his voice filled with quiet determination. "Me too."
----
God, I feel like crap.
And—wait a second—what the hell? Why is there a whole ass child clinging to my arm with a hell ass adult practically wrapped around me like I'm a body pillow on the other side?
This is wrong. So very wrong.
Oh no. Oh no no no.
Am I being kidnapped?!
Panic floods my foggy brain, and in a burst of pure adrenaline (and bad judgment), I sit up abruptly. Big mistake. The world tilts like a merry-go-round gone wrong, and my stomach lurches violently. Yep, this is happening. I stumble out of the sweet, warm bed like a man possessed and bolt toward the nearest door, hoping it's a bathroom. By some miracle, I find a toilet bowl just in time to... well, you know.
Yeah now I think about it, I ate a plate of lasagna last night, right? That's freaking good lasagna is now a waste in the toilet.
Damn. I'm really that sick.
I slump back against the wall, wiping the remnants of my misfortune with the sleeve of this oversized shirt. Joonghyuk's shirt, I think. Not my problem. The floor tiles feel cold against my legs as I close my eyes, trying to gather what's left of my soul. Then comes the deep rumble of a voice that's half-savior, half-menace.
"Dokja?"
I crack an eye open, and there he is: Yoo Joonghyuk, crouching in front of me like a worried parent. His face looks less stoic and more... horrified? Yeah, that tracks.
"Wait here," he orders, after pressing his annoyingly warm hand to my forehead. Before I can muster a sarcastic retort, he's out the door.
The moment he's gone, I notice movement by the bathroom door. A little head pokes in, blinking big, curious eyes at me.
"Hi there," I say weakly, forcing a smile.
"You look like shit," the kid deadpans. Ah, yes. A Yoo, through and through.
"Thanks for that."
"Are... are you okay?" she asks, softer this time, stepping closer like she's not entirely convinced I'm not about to keel over.
"I rarely get sick," I admit with a shrug. "When I do, it's... dramatic."
She nods like that makes perfect sense, then turns and walks out without another word.
Huh. Semi-rude, but at least she asked.
I close my eyes again, letting the pounding in my head fade into the background, until light footsteps return. When I open them, the kid is standing there, clutching a pink bear.
Pink....bear.
That shit looks funny.
"Here," she says, holding it out to me.
"For... me?" I croak, my throat raw.
She nods, her face scrunched up in determination, like offering this bear is a matter of life and death. It almost makes me feel bad. Almost. But I take it, pressing the soft plush to my chest.
"Thank you," I whisper.
Her cheeks flush red, and she bolts out of the room like I just handed her my bank account details. Cute kid.
I'm still holding the bear, trying to regulate my breathing, when Joonghyuk reappears with a thermometer in hand. He kneels in front of me, his face doing that rare scrunchy-worried thing.
"Hi," I say weakly.
"Hi," he replies curtly, popping the thermometer into my mouth. We sit there in awkward silence until it beeps, and when he pulls it out, his frown deepens.
"Is it bad?" I ask.
"Bad enough." His eyes land on the bear, and there's a flicker of amusement in his expression. "Mia gave you that?"
I nod, smirking. "Told you she'd like me."
Joonghyuk huffs a soft laugh, something rare enough to be classified as a miracle. "Yeah. Sorry for doubting you."
"Apology accepted," I say with a faint chuckle.
Then, without warning, he lifts me and plops me on the edge of the bathtub. The thin rim digs into my backside, but I'm too drained to complain. When he starts tugging at my shirt, I stop his hands and handle it myself.
"Sooo..." I slur, still half out of it. "Where's my phone?"
He gestures to the bedside table. I spot my phone, facedown, with my iconic squid case. Great. At least that survived.
Joonghyuk starts filling the tub, the sound of water trickling in breaking the silence. He doesn't say a word, and for a moment, I almost don't either. But then it all comes spilling out.
"I don't know how to thank you for this," I mumble. "I just... wanted to crash on your couch or something. Not burden you with—"
"Dokja," he interrupts, his voice sharp enough to cut through my rambling.
I glance up at him. His eyes meet mine, steady and intense.
"You're not a burden," he says, his tone firm but gentle. Then his gaze drops to the faint cuts on my laps. My hands quickly fall to hide those ugly, horrendous, stupid-
"And I know someone's hurting you," he continues, his voice quieter now. "Please, just... tell me."
The weight of his words settles between us. I don't answer right away, my eyes fixed on the water rising in the tub. It feels too heavy, too raw to talk about now.
"After this," I finally say, attempting a weak smile. "Can we do it somewhere else? Like... not while I'm naked?"
His face flushes a deep red at that, and I can't help but let out a tired laugh, the sound rasping in my throat.
"Right," he mutters, rubbing the back of his neck. "I'll... give you space."
As he leaves, I settle back against the tub, the pink bear still in my arms. The silence creeps back in, but for once, it doesn't feel so bad.
----
(09:03) Mi amor??
(09:03) You're not in school????
(09:03) Why?????
(09:22) So Hyunsung told me you broke an arm.
(09:22) Is that why you're absent today?
(09:22) Or because of something else?
(09:23) Because I clearly remember you came to school last year with a broken leg.
(10:09) Ummm
(10:09) Call me.
CALLING 'MY BELOVED'
CALL RECEIVES BY 'MY BELOVED'
(10:15) So....
(10:15) Does Yoo Joonghyuk taking well care of you?
(10:15) More than well actually.
(10:15) Really?????
(10:15) Well, that's good right???
(10:15) Like finally there's someone who care enough for you.
(10:15) But you're always there for me too.
(10:15) Not far enough Dokja. That I know.
(10:15) I'm ashamed sometimes I can't help you.
(10:17) I'm sorry???
(10:17) Yes, you should be sorry >:(
(10:17) Whatever.
(10:17) Oh yeah, please take notes for me.
(10:18) And tell the teachers I got into accident or something.
(10:18) I don't think mom's going to tell the teachers why I was absent.
(10:19) Right...
(10:19) What I need to tell them?
(10:20) I don't know.
(10:20) Make anything ups.
(10:21) You like to talk shit about me anyway.
(10:21) Heyyy
(10:21) I'm sorrryyy :((((((
(10:22) Yeah yeah. Whatever.
(10:22) Can you do it for me?
(10:23) Well, it's the least I could do.
(10:23) Thanks.
(10:23) Always.
(10:23) I will tell the others you're good then.
(10:24) Oh yeah, about that.
(10:24) Why you're the only one who messaged me?
(10:24) Heewon's busy with her fencing practices. The competition is a few days away. Hyunsung's busy with rugby.
(10:25) Oh righhhhttt. Give my luck to them.
(10:25) No, you need it the most now.
(10:26) Rude.
(10:26) But okay.
(10:26) Alright bye then. Get well soon.
(10:26) Byee.
Notes:
I'm sorry for not uploading anything for a while 'cause my grandma got into the operation room, my cat died and my other cat died...
Damn. Shit's hitting right now. Anyway, hope you guys like the chapter.
Chapter 4: Chapter 4
Chapter Text
Joonghyuk is always there whenever I wake up. Always. Like an overprotective mother hen, except he's built like a refrigerator and has the emotional range of one too.
Well, technically, it's not really waking up if you haven't been sleeping in the first place. Because how can you sleep when your brain is running a horror movie marathon every night? Yeah, exactly. So, I just... exist in this miserable half-asleep, half-panicked state until exhaustion finally wins. And then, of course, the nightmares come knocking like unwanted guests at a house party.
And Joonghyuk? Oh, he's there-every single time-shushing me, whispering sweet, completely untrue reassurances like, "It's okay" and "You're safe." As if saying it enough times will make it true.
It doesn't.
So, I cry.
Dignity? Never heard of it. Threw it out the window a long time ago, and I'm pretty sure it's never coming back.
I feel Joonghyuk stiffen the second I start sniffling, like he's bracing for impact. Then, without a word, he pulls me in tighter, pressing my face into the crook of his neck. And that's when it happens.
He starts singing.
Singing.
Like some kind of lullaby-wielding warrior.
And you know what? It's nice. His voice? Shockingly decent. The melody? Soft, soothing-like something meant to calm down a crying baby or, in this case, a sleep-deprived disaster of a human (me).
I don't recognize the song. Either it's some deep-cut indie track I missed, or it's a Yoo family exclusive, passed down through generations like a secret weapon.
Whatever it is, it works.
The next thing I know, I'm actually asleep.
Then wake up to something weird. Something... cute.
It's Joonghyuk's little sister, Mia, blinking at me like a clueless child except she doesn't. God knows how much horror's running around in that tiny head of hers.
But damn, she's adorable.
Before I can say anything, she reaches out and presses the back of her hand to my forehead like a tiny doctor-in-training.
"Your fever's gone," she announces. Then she tilts her head, eyes narrowing in suspicion. "So last night... it wasn't because of the fever?"
Oh, right. This is my second night crashing at the Yoo household. Which means this kid has had a front-row seat to all my embarrassing sleep struggles.
Fantastic.
I groan internally before forcing a smile at Mia. Gotta keep up appearances. "Nightmares. I get them a lot."
She scrunches up her nose, clearly unimpressed. "Then how do you handle them when Hyung isn't there?"
Oof. Direct hit.
I sit up, rubbing the sleep from my eyes before reaching out to ruffle her hair. She squawks in protest, but I pretend not to hear it as I swing my legs off the bed.
"I've managed worse," I say simply, stretching my arms above my head.
Behind me, I hear the soft pat-pat of her tiny feet following me as I make my way downstairs.
"Yeah, but still..." she mutters, clearly not satisfied.
I chuckle, reaching out to ruffle her hair again, just because I can. She makes an indignant noise, and honestly, it's the best entertainment I've had all week.
----
"Oh good, you're awake."
Joonghyuk's voice floats from the kitchen like he's been expecting me. Which, knowing him, he probably has. I drag myself in and immediately claim my rightful throne-the tabletop.
Joonghyuk side-eyes me like I just committed a crime but says nothing, choosing instead to return to his very serious mission: making pancakes.
Normal pancakes.
But somehow, the man makes normal look like fine dining. I mean, the presentation is insane-strawberries, blueberries, whipped cream, the whole fancy setup. If someone told me he secretly runs a five-star café in his free time, I'd believe it.
With zero ceremony, Joonghyuk slides a plate next to my hip and another to Mia, who has taken a standing beside me like this is a normal morning and not me, a sleep-deprived mess, having a whole existential crisis over breakfast.
And then, without warning, he steps between my thighs.
Before my brain can short-circuit, his hand is already on my forehead, checking for any lingering fever. I half-expect a "hmm" or some official doctor-like statement, but instead, he just sighs in relief.
Then, apron off, tired expression locked in, Joonghyuk rests his head on my shoulder, his arms braced on either side of my hips like he's holding himself up by sheer willpower.
"You scared me," he mutters.
Oof. Guilt hits me like a truck.
Because right-yesterday. He stayed home all day because I woke up just to throw up like some tragic Victorian orphan. And, to top it off, I still haven't told him what happened the night before, the whole reason I ended up crashing here in the first place.
God.
"I'm sorry."
Joonghyuk lifts his head, locking eyes with me like he's about to either lecture me or read my mind. Both sound terrifying.
"You're not a burden," he says firmly. "Trust me, if I didn't want you here, I would've kicked you out already."
A laugh escapes before I can stop it. I glance at Mia for backup, and she nods enthusiastically, as if confirming, Yeah, he totally would have yeeted you out the door.
"This might be weird, but bear with me for a sec," I warn.
Joonghyuk immediately frowns. "What-"
Too late. I squeeze my entire body against his, arms clutching the back of his shirt in a full-on, no-escape hug. A shaky breath leaves my mouth, even though I nearly lose it and start laughing at how stiff he goes at the contact.
But, eventually-finally-he relaxes.
"Thank you," I whisper near his ear. "No one's ever done this for me. So, seriously-thank you."
For a moment, it's just silence. Then, I feel a tiny hand latch onto my leg (Mia, obviously) and a bigger one push my head closer to Joonghyuk's chest.
"Just..." He exhales sharply. "Just tell me what happened the other night when I get back."
Oh, right. He still has to go to school.
I let go and lean back, trying to school my expression into something normal. Then I glance down-his once-crisp school shirt is now a wrinkled disaster, courtesy of my very aggressive emotional moment.
"Sorry about that," I say, barely suppressing a laugh.
Joonghyuk looks down, sighs dramatically, then just snickers. "Whatever. I don't care." Then his eyes shift to Mia. "But you-finish your food and grab your bag. You're already late enough."
Mia groans, she takes her plate and moves to the kitchen table before she shoves bites of pancake in her mouth.
Joonghyuk sighs again, and I can't help but think-yeah, maybe I'm not doing so great right now. But at least, for once, I don't have to handle it alone.
----
Joonghyuk gets home around 4:15-ish, sighing loud enough to announce his suffering to the world. He yanks his tie loose with a dramatic tug and nudges my shin, wordlessly demanding I move my legs. I shift slightly, letting him collapse onto the end of the sofa, and then-naturally-I drape my legs right back over his lap.
"Long day?" I ask, eyes still glued to the chaotic mess unfolding on the TV.
"Yeah," he sighs, rubbing a hand down his face. "Sooyoung-ssi pestered me all day, asking if you were okay."
I snort. "She's just worried."
"Yeah..." Another sigh. This one even heavier, like the weight of the world (or at least high school gossip) is crushing him. Meanwhile, his hands absentmindedly find my feet, kneading into them with practiced ease. And damn. Damn. I'd never say it out loud, but the guy gives stellar foot massages.
"What've you been up to today?" Joonghyuk asks, eyes closed, head tilted back like he's trying to will his exhaustion away.
"Mostly sleeping. Watching TV. Then sleeping again. Oh, and Mia got home, so I made her cupcakes."
That gets his attention. His head snaps toward me so fast I'm surprised he doesn't get whiplash.
"You what?"
"Cupcakes. Me. Delicioso, according to your sister."
Something flickers in Joonghyuk's expression-something close to amusement-before an almost-smile tugs at his lips.
"No wonder I haven't seen her. She's knocked out, isn't she?"
I frown. "Yeah... how'd you know?"
"There's a reason I don't let her have sweets before bedtime," he deadpans. "She's going to wake up fully charged, and when she does, you'll see."
Ah.
Shit.
I think I just doomed myself.
Joonghyuk must read it all over my face because suddenly, he's chuckling-actual, genuine laughter.
"Don't worry about it," he says, far too relaxed for someone who's about to witness his little sister enter hyperdrive.
I grumble under my breath before nudging his thigh with my foot. "By the way... Mia's kindergarten isn't far from here, right?"
He nods.
"Oh," I say, thinking aloud. "It's just... I was wondering why she came home alone. You sent her with your bike this morning, but you got home way later, so I just-YOU KNOW WHAT I'M SAYING?"
Joonghyuk blinks. Once. Twice. Then, without a word, he stands up, ignoring my grunt when my legs drop unceremoniously onto the sofa. As he walks past, he ruffles my hair like I'm some pet cat he owns.
"Yeah, I understand. You're just overthinking," he says, strolling toward the kitchen.
I huff, sinking into the cushions as I watch him reach the tabletop, where two leftover cupcakes sit on a plate. He picks one up, eyes it for a second, then walks back, plopping himself right back on the sofa. With zero hesitation, he pulls my legs up, places them back on his lap like before, and takes a bite.
"...It's good," he says through a mouthful of cupcake.
"Reallyyy??" My voice comes out embarrassingly excited. I immediately clear my throat, trying again in a more chill tone. "I mean. Really?"
Joonghyuk just nods, finishing the whole thing in one go.
We settle into a comfortable silence, watching the ridiculous reality show playing on TV. About half an hour passes before Joonghyuk suddenly speaks up.
"You're not using your phone."
I glance at the device sitting untouched on the coffee table. Then, instead of answering, I curl further into the sofa, burying myself deeper in the cushions.
"Mom texted," I say finally. "I don't want to see hers while looking at everyone else's."
For a second, there's no response. I can't see Joonghyuk's face from this position, but I feel him shift. My legs are gently lifted off his lap and placed onto the couch. There's the rustling of fabric before I feel a light tap on my shoulder.
I peek at him. "...What?"
"Do you want me to deal with her for you?"
That-that-snaps me upright. I sit up so fast I might as well have been electrocuted.
"You're crazy."
"I am," Joonghyuk says, completely serious.
"Wow," I let out a shaky laugh, but it dies when he reaches forward, gathering both of my hands and placing them on top of my lap.
"I mean it," he says, voice quieter now. "I don't know everything, but I do know this much-" He lifts his fingers slightly, leaving a tiny gap between his thumb and forefinger. "-that she treats you wrong."
His expression is unreadable, but his grip on my hands is steady. Solid.
"So, tell me what happened," he says. "Or I'll find her myself and demand the truth."
I stare at him.
This guy-this ridiculous guy-doesn't say things lightly. If he's offering this, he means it.
And somehow, that's the scariest part.
"Okay, okay. I'm telling you, you ass. You're freaking scary, you know that?"
Joonghyuk, completely unfazed, settles himself on the floor in front of me. "I know."
I scoff. Of course, he does.
My hands start fidgeting, fingers twisting together, but before I can spiral, Joonghyuk reaches out and takes my hands in his. I glance up, and his face is... calm. Steady. The kind of expression that says, Go ahead, I can take whatever you're about to say. Like he's already bracing himself.
It's annoying. But also, kind of exactly what I need.
I take a breath. "Dad's... he's not the greatest dad you'll ever see. If you ever met him, you'd probably hate his guts." A humorless laugh escapes me as memories resurface. "But back then? He was good. Like, really good. The kind of dad who actually spent time with his kid. Mom smiled more, too."
Joonghyuk stays quiet, just listening.
"But then..." My grip tightens around his. "Things got messy. He was in a lot of debt. Started working more. Barely came home except for weekends. And when the weekend came, he... he drank. A lot."
I feel Joonghyuk shift, but he doesn't interrupt.
"And you know how it goes. Drinking leads to being drunk, and being drunk leads to hitting mom."
Joonghyuk's fingers tighten around mine. Probably his way of saying, I'm here. Keep going.
"And I-" I let out a choked laugh. "At first, I thought he'd stop. Like, maybe it was a passing thing. Maybe he'd wake up one day and realize what he was doing." I pause, shaking my head. "And he did stop. But only for a few weeks."
Joonghyuk's jaw tenses. I can feel the anger radiating off him, but he's still silent. Still letting me talk.
"A few weeks later, he started hitting me instead."
I lift my shirt slightly, revealing the bruises that are still fading. "I think you saw them already. When you threw me into the tub the other day."
Joonghyuk pushes my hand down, his face twisting into something dangerous. Not at me, but like he's barely holding back an explosion of anger.
"And I'm okay with it," I continue quickly, before he does something reckless like hunt my father down. "Because then Mom doesn't have to worry about weekends anymore. She can just... live."
Joonghyuk's voice is sharp. "Are you really?"
I blink. "What?"
"Your mom might be okay with the weekends now, but are you?" His stare is unwavering. "I don't think you are."
I open my mouth, but-
Nothing comes out.
I blink again. And again. And then, suddenly, there's warmth sliding down my face, and-
Oh.
Oh, hell no.
"Wait-this-" I try to wipe my face, but damn it, the tears won't stop coming.
"Hey..." Joonghyuk's voice is softer now as he gently lowers my hands, stopping me from frantically scrubbing at my eyes.
"I'm sorry, I just-shit!" I groan. "I hate crying."
Joonghyuk, ever the menace, tilts his head. "I mean, I've seen worse from you."
I punch his shoulder on instinct. He only hisses a little before tapping my leg, wordlessly telling me to keep going.
I sniff, swallowing down the embarrassment, and continue.
"And the other night, I came home with this," I nod at the cast on my arm. "And suddenly, Mom just... snapped? Like, full-on lost it. I don't know. She's never been mad at me before. Never."
Joonghyuk's gaze flickers toward my cast, his brows furrowing slightly.
"I-" My words cut off as a memory slams into me. My breath stutters. "Sometimes I'd rather let him hit me than you."
Joonghyuk's face blurs in my vision.
I blink past him. "Joonghyuk."
His voice instantly shifts. "W-what? Where does it hurt-"
"Joonghyuk!" Without thinking, I slap both hands against his cheeks.
His eyes go wide. "What-?"
"Mom-Mom's shitty distraction was for me to leave on weekends!" My breathing stumbles. "She-she kept me away on purpose!"
Joonghyuk's expression shifts into full alert mode. "Dokja, breathe." His hands land firmly on my shoulders, grounding me.
I suck in a breath.
"Okay-okay." He watches me closely. "You're good."
He makes a soothing circle on my palm.
"You're good."
----
27/09/2024
(20:33) Sorry.
(20:33) For not replying to all your messages.
(20:33) I think next week I can come back to school.
(20:33) And I want to see my mom tonight.
(20:33) So if something happens, please take care of my novel collection with your soul.
(20:35) Dokja???
(20:35) You're kidding, right?
(20:35) You got out of that house and now you want to go back?
(20:36) She's my mom, Sooyoung.
(20:36) BUT SHE'S THE REASON YOU LEFT IN THE FIRST PLACE!!!
(20:37) Sooyoung.
(20:37) What?
(20:37) You know my mom.
(20:37) So?
(20:38) She's never gotten mad at me.
(20:38) There must be a reason if she did.
(20:39) ...Alright, fine.
(20:39) But promise to call me back later.
(20:39) I promise.
"I can't come?"
Mia's voice jolts me back to reality. I shove my phone back into my pocket, only to be met with a devastating look from her-like I'm the one who's responsible to help her right now.
"You're just going to leave her just like that?"
Joonghyuk sighs, glancing between the two of us. His face screams why must I deal with this right now? and, honestly? Fair. Is this what moms feel like when their kids throw tantrums?
"Mia, you're the one who told me you could take care of yourself," he reminds her.
Mia scowls, rolling her eyes like the true little sister menace she is. "Whatever."
Then, without warning, she turns to me and sticks out her hand.
I hesitate before taking it, and suddenly, she presses a tiny ring into my palm.
"That's Mom's," she says, voice quiet but firm. "Wear it. Give it back to me when you come home."
Then, with all the dramatics of someone twice her size, she stomps back inside.
Joonghyuk watches her go, then casually says, "She likes you."
I turn to him, deadpan. "Isn't that obvious?"
"Yes, but-" He swings open the passenger door for me, and I slide in. Then, leaning against the frame, one hand resting on the top of the car, he adds, "She doesn't like opening up to just anyone. Especially not about Mom. So, I guess that's something."
And for some reason, that remark makes my face go weirdly warm.
I clear my throat, pretending it didn't affect me, while Joonghyuk just chuckles-because of course he notices. Then, without another word, he shuts my door and moves around to the driver's side.
The car rumbles to life, and as we pull away, I stare down at the ring now snug on my little finger-the only one it actually fits.
Then the first few minutes of the ride are filled with silence. Not the comfortable kind, but the heavy, lingering kind. The type that presses against your chest and makes your thoughts louder.
Then, finally, Joonghyuk speaks.
"Mom and Dad... they aren't that close to me and Mia."
I turn to him, frowning. Why is he telling me this now? Is it because he trusts me? Or is it because, after everything I've told him, he feels like he has to say something back?
"They left me with her when I was nine."
Dude, what?
My shitty excuse for a dad was at least around when I was a kid.
"They sent money every month to 'take care of things.' There was a maid who came twice a week, but when I turned fifteen, she stopped coming. After that, it was just me and Mia."
His hand tighten on the steering wheel, knuckles turning white. That's when it hits me.
That's why he already has his driver's license.
Because he's been the adult in the house since he was what? Nine?
"I'm not telling you this for pity," he adds. "I just want you to know you're not alone. And that the people around us-the ones who should have protected us-are the ones who need to be-"
"Joonghyuk."
He falls silent.
I reach over, taking his free hand on the armrest between us and tapping it lightly. "Thank you. That's... kind of you. And yeah, thanks for telling me."
Joonghyuk turns his palm upward, closing his fingers around mine. He squeezes my hand once, and we just sit like that. No more words, just shared understanding.
When we finally pull up in front of my house, neither of us move right away.
After a moment, I step out, but I don't head in immediately. Instead, I turn back to him.
"Okay, so. Stay here. I'll go in. If I'm not out in fifteen minutes, call the cops or something."
"Call what???"
"You heard me."
Joonghyuk's face twists with obvious concern, but I don't give him time to argue. I just turn around and walk inside.
The second I step into the house, I know something is wrong.
Empty bottles everywhere. Some whole, some shattered. The couch cushions are on the floor, and the kitchen looks like a disaster zone, dishes stacked high in the sink.
I was gone for two days.
And this is what happens?
But that's not even the worst part.
There's blood.
Dark smudges staining the couch.
Big ones.
Shit.
"Mom?!" My voice echoes through the house. I don't care how loud I am-blood is never a good sign.
No answer.
My heart pounds as I move, checking each room one by one, until-
I freeze.
There they are.
Dad, looming over Mom, a broken bottle clenched in his fist.
Mom, crumpled on the floor, blood streaking her forehead and hands.
My stomach drops.
"You know," Dad sneers, turning his head just enough to acknowledge me, "I'm really sick of you. And you," he spits, shifting his attention fully to me. "You're the most ungrateful brat I've ever seen. You left my house-the house I paid for-just to hang out with your little friends." His lip curls in disgust.
I take an involuntary step back. Mom says something, but I can't hear her over the static roaring in my ears.
Dad steps toward me.
I step back again.
Then-he stops.
"You know what? Let's finish with her first."
He turns back toward Mom.
And that's when I move.
Without thinking, I shove myself between them, arms stretched out like that'll actually do something.
Fifteen.
Fifteen minutes.
That's all I need to stall until Joonghyuk realizes something's wrong.
Dad's lip twitches. Then he grins. The kind of smile that isn't a smile.
"What, you want to die before your mom?" His voice drips with amusement. "Gladly."
He takes a step forward.
"Why do you do this?" I ask. My voice shakes, but I don't move.
Dad's brows knit together. "What?"
"Why do you hate us so much?" My throat tightens. "Why do you hate Mom so much?"
For the first time, he hesitates. Then-
He laughs.
Not a chuckle. Not a scoff. A full-bodied, cruel, mocking laugh.
"You're really asking me that now? After everything I've done for you?" He steps closer. "You and that good-for-nothing-" his gaze flicks down to Mom "-freaking ungrateful. Taking everything I give and still wanting more."
I don't understand.
Mom works, too. She does everything-
"B-but Mom works too-"
"Oh my God!"
His voice booms through the house, rattling through my skull like a bomb just went off. My body locks up, every muscle screaming at me to run, to move-do something-but my feet stay rooted to the floor.
Dad's eyes burn with something ugly, something that feels like gasoline to an open flame.
"You idiot!" He snarls, shoving a finger in my face. "You think I hate her because she doesn't work?" He lets out a sharp, bitter laugh. "She does work. That's the problem."
My brows furrow. "What?"
"You think I don't see it? The way she looks down on me?" His words come out like venom, his grip on the broken bottle tightening. "She used to need me. She used to depend on me. But now-" He sneers. "Now, she thinks she can do everything without me. Like I'm just some useless deadweight in this family."
Behind me, Mom makes a noise-weak, barely audible. I don't know if she's trying to defend herself or if she's just trying to get me out of this situation.
"You two have been against me since the beginning," Dad continues, voice rising. "I see it. The whispers, the looks. You and your perfect mother." His lips curl. "You were always hers, weren't you? Always taking her side. Always acting like I was the problem."
My breath catches.
Because you are the problem.
I don't say it. I can't say it.
Dad scoffs. "And then you ran off. Just like her. Leaving me behind like I'm nothing. Like I don't matter."
I shake my head. "That's not why I left."
"Then why did you?!" He roars, stepping forward so fast that I barely have time to react.
I stumble back. "Because you-!" My voice cuts off. My throat feels tight, like the words are choking me before I can get them out.
Dad exhales sharply, shaking his head. "You're just like her."
Something snaps inside me.
"And what's wrong with that?!"
Dad's eyes widen, just for a second. I don't think I've ever yelled at him like this before.
"You act like we betrayed you, but you were the one who hurt us first! You were the one who turned our home into a war zone!" My chest heaves. "We're not the ones who left you behind, Dad. You did that all on your own!"
For a second-just a second-his expression falters.
Then, just as quickly, it hardens again.
"Ungrateful little shit," he mutters, lifting the broken bottle slightly. "Maybe I should've-"
He lunges.
It happens too fast.
A sharp, burning pain rips through my side, white-hot and deep.
I gasp-choking on it-stumbling back as my hands fly to my stomach. Wet. Warm. Blood.
He stabbed me.
He actually stabbed me.
The world tilts, my ears ringing, my vision swimming with bright spots. My legs give out, and I collapse to my knees, my hands pressing against the wound, but it's not stopping.
Above me, Dad is panting, his grip on the bottle tightening as if he's ready to go again.
All of this. Everything. This is not what I want. This is not what a family looks like.
This is not what Dad will do to me-
"Dokja!"
The front door slams open—a deafening crash that shakes the entire house.
Something shatters. A blur of movement. Then—
A bang.
A sickening thud.
And suddenly—
I’m not the only one who's falling anymore.
Through my haze, I see it.
Dad, on the ground, his body colliding hard with the floor, the broken bottle clattering away from his grasp.
And standing over him—Joonghyuk. His chest heaving, his fists clenched, his face twisted into something so furious, so lethal, that for a moment—even in my dazed state—
I feel afraid.
Not for me.
For Dad.
Joonghyuk doesn't even look at me. His entire focus is locked onto the man beneath him, and there is murder in his eyes.
Then—he grabs Dad by the collar and slams him against the nearest wall.
The sound it makes is vicious.
Dad chokes, struggling against Joonghyuk’s grip, but Joonghyuk doesn’t let up.
And I don't get to see what happens next.
Because suddenly—
The pain overwhelms me.
The last thing I feel is warm hands pressing against my wound, frantic whispers telling me to stay awake.
The hands.
Warm hands.
Joonghyuk.
His face is a mix of rage and fear, his eyes wide, frantic.
"Dokja," he breathes, dropping to his knees beside me, hands hovering over me like he doesn't know what to do first.
"Shit-shit, stay awake-"
I try to say something. Something sarcastic, maybe. Something that'll make him stop looking at me like that.
But my lips don't work.
My eyes feel heavy.
There's more shouting. More movement. Mom's voice.
Then-
Everything goes black.
Chapter Text
The first thing I notice is the beeping.
Soft, rhythmic, steady. A machine somewhere near me, keeping time with my breathing, with my heartbeat. The second thing I notice is the feeling of something tight around my torso. Bandages. The memory returns in sharp, jagged flashes—the argument, the bottle, the pain, the blood. My father’s face twisted in rage.
Then Joonghyuk.
The rush of sound and movement, his voice breaking through the haze, warm hands pressing against my wound, trying to keep me here. And then—
Nothing.
Now, I’m here. Alive. Somehow.
My eyelids are heavy, but I force them open. The hospital room is dim, the only light coming from the hallway. The sterile smell of antiseptic fills my nostrils, and my throat is dry, like I haven’t had water in days.
A shadow moves in the corner.
Joonghyuk.
He’s sitting in a chair by the window, arms crossed, his usual scowl in place. But there’s something off about it. His jaw is too tight, his posture too rigid.
He looks exhausted.
“...Hey.”
My voice is barely above a whisper, but it’s enough. His head snaps toward me so fast I almost think he’s been waiting for me to wake up.
“Dokja.” He’s standing before I can blink, looming over me.
There’s something unreadable in his eyes. Anger, relief, something else I can’t place. His hands twitch at his sides like he wants to do something—grab my shoulder, shake me, hit me.
Instead, he exhales sharply and says, “You’re an idiot.”
A huff of laughter escapes me, though it hurts. “Good to see you too.”
His scowl deepens, but he doesn’t retort. Instead, he pulls the chair closer and sits down. He’s still watching me, like I’ll disappear if he looks away. It’s unnerving.
“How long?” I ask.
“Just a day.”
A day.
A day since he dragged me out of that house, since my father—
I close my eyes.
“What happened?” My voice is quieter now, unsure.
Joonghyuk doesn’t answer immediately.
Then—
“He’s in custody.” His voice is clipped, controlled. “Assault. Attempted murder.”
I swallow hard. The words don’t feel real. “Mom?”
“She’s... managing.” A hesitation. “She’s been here every day.”
That shouldn’t surprise me, but it does. After everything, I didn’t think she’d—
The door creaks open before I can finish that thought.
Mom steps in.
She freezes when she sees me awake. Her hands fly to her mouth, eyes welling up instantly. Then she’s moving, rushing to my bedside, hands hovering, shaking, like she wants to hold me but is afraid I’ll break.
“Oh, Dokja—” Her voice cracks.
I don’t know what to say. The anger, the resentment—it’s still there, burning low in my chest. But she’s here. She stayed. That has to count for something.
She takes my hand carefully, as if waiting for permission. I don’t pull away. Her grip tightens slightly, like she’s reassuring herself that I’m real, that I’m still here.
“I’m sorry,” she whispers.
I close my eyes.
It’s too much. It’s not enough. I don’t know. But I nod. And for now, that’s all I can give.
Then the next few days pass in a blur. Nurses come and go. Mom hovers, fussing over me. Joonghyuk never leaves, though he pretends otherwise when I point it out.
Eventually, the police come.
I give my statement. It’s strange, saying it all out loud. Hearing it become something official, something real. But I do it.
And then, finally, I’m discharged.
Joonghyuk drives. Mom is in the backseat. No one speaks. The air is heavy with unspoken things.
When we get home, I stop in the doorway.
The house feels different. Emptier. Quieter. Like something rotten has been cut away, leaving behind a wound that still needs to heal.
Mom rests a hand on my shoulder. “We’ll be okay,” she says, more to herself than me.
----
The days blur together in a haze of routine. Mom keeps busy, cleaning the house, organizing things she probably hasn’t touched in years. It’s her way of coping, I guess. She doesn’t talk much about my father, not directly. But I can hear it in the way she picks at the old family photos or the way her hand lingers on the kitchen counter, as if expecting him to walk through the door any second. She looks afraid when she does it.
Joonghyuk is around more than I expect. He shows up at all hours, knocking quietly on the door and slipping inside like it’s nothing. He’s always the same—guarded, serious, the same person I’ve known since... well, since everything.
It’s strange, the way he’s become a constant in my life. I still don’t fully understand why he’s stuck around, but in a way, I’m starting to think that maybe, just maybe, I don’t need to understand. Not everything can be explained, after all. Some things are just there, like the ground beneath your feet, solid and unshakable, even if you don’t know where it leads.
One evening, as the sun sets in the distance, painting the sky a bruised purple, Joonghyuk and I sit on the back porch, the silence between us stretching longer than it should. He’s watching the horizon, his eyes unreadable. I’m not sure if he’s waiting for me to say something or if he’s just lost in thought. But eventually, it’s me who breaks the silence.
“Why did you stay?”
Joonghyuk glances at me, his face unreadable. But there’s a softness in his eyes now, a depth to them that wasn’t there before. Maybe it’s the weight of everything that’s happened, or maybe it’s just him. He doesn’t answer right away, just turns his head back to the sunset, as if he’s choosing his words carefully.
“You’re an idiot,” he repeats, his voice low and steady. “But I didn’t want you to die.”
There’s no anger in his voice. It’s almost... gentle, the way he says it. And it hits me harder than I expect.
“I couldn’t just leave you alone. Not after everything.”
I don’t know what to say to that. It feels like too much, like something more than just words can explain. Joonghyuk has always been this way—stoic, distant, but always there, always watching, always waiting. I don’t know what makes him tick, but I think I’m starting to understand that it’s because he cares. In his own way.
I lean back in the chair, my fingers brushing the cool metal armrest. It’s funny, in a way. All the things that have happened, all the things that have torn my life apart, and yet here I am, sitting next to the one person who hasn’t left. The one person who probably should’ve, but didn’t.
“Thank you,” I say, my voice barely a whisper.
Joonghyuk doesn’t answer, but I catch the faintest hint of a smile on his lips. It’s small, barely there, but it’s enough. It’s the first time in days that I’ve seen anything close to a smile from him.
We sit in silence for a while longer, watching the sky darken and the stars start to emerge. It’s peaceful, in a way. It almost feels normal, like everything’s going to be okay. But I know it’s not that simple.
Because nothing is.
----
I spent a week at home before Mom finally let me get back to school.
The wound still aches when I move too fast, but school first.
My phone has been vibrating nonstop, and I already know who most of the messages are from. Sooyoung, probably sending a mix of insults and threats. Heewon, more direct and concerned. Hyunsung, asking if I need anything. Yoo Sangah, politely but persistently checking in.
And then there's Joonghyuk.
Unlike the others, he wouldn’t have sent a barrage of messages. Maybe one. Maybe none. Because Yoo Joonghyuk isn’t the type to ask if I’m okay. He just decides what "okay" means and acts accordingly.
And apparently, this is what he decided.
As soon as I step outside, there's a sleek black car waiting in front of my house.
I blink once.
Twice.
Huh. I’m not hallucinating then?
The hell is Joonghyuk's car doing here? With the said man leaning against the side, arms crossed, posture radiating impatience like he’s been waiting forever?
I trudge toward him, my bag slung over my shoulder.
"The hell with the car?"
Joonghyuk raises an eyebrow like my words are almost ridiculous.
"A ride. For you."
The deadpan way he says it nearly makes me laugh.
"You? Giving me a ride? What, did you hit your head? You never—"
"You’re injured," he cuts me off. "You shouldn’t be walking around."
Ah. There it is.
I should’ve expected that. Yoo Joonghyuk doesn’t do things out of kindness. Everything he does comes from necessity, obligation, or some convoluted sense of responsibility that no one actually assigned to him.
I sigh, shifting my weight. "I’m fine. It’s just a wound. I can take the bus."
Joonghyuk doesn’t move. Doesn’t blink. Just stands there, the car door already open, as if daring me to argue further.
He’s really going to wait until I get in, huh?
"...Fine." I exhale, sliding into the passenger seat. "But if you drive like a maniac, I’m tucking and rolling."
Joonghyuk closes the door behind me, muttering something under his breath that sounds suspiciously like, "You wouldn’t survive that."
I ignore it.
----
By the time we reach school, I’ve already had to grip the side of my seat twice. Joonghyuk, of course, is completely unbothered, maneuvering through traffic like he’s escaping a battlefield.
The moment we pull up, I barely have time to step out before—
"YO, KIM DOKJAAAA!"
I brace myself half a second too late before a weight crashes into my side. Han Sooyoung, in all her loud, chaotic glory, throws an arm around my shoulders and ruffles my hair like I’m a lost puppy she just found in the rain.
"You survived!" she grins. "Wow, that’s unexpected."
I roll my eyes. "Ha ha."
I know this act.
She’s always like this—loud, teasing, acting like nothing bothers her. A walking, talking storm of sarcasm and misplaced confidence. But I know better.
She wouldn’t be acting this casual if she hadn’t been worried.
If she really didn’t care, she wouldn’t have spent the past week spamming my phone. Wouldn’t have called six times in one night before giving up and sending me a cursed meme instead.
But I don’t call her out on it. Because I get it.
And if she wants to pretend, I’ll pretend too.
"You good?" she asks, her voice light, easy. But I hear the weight underneath it.
"Obviously."
She scoffs, flicking my forehead for good measure. "Took you long enough to get back."
Before I can respond, her eyes land on Joonghyuk.
"And you! What’s with the chauffeur act? You two married now?"
Joonghyuk, instead of dignifying that with a response, just walks past her like she doesn’t exist.
Han Sooyoung gapes. "The audacity—!"
Before she can lunge at him, another voice calls out.
"Dokja!"
I turn to see Hyunsung approaching, Yoo Sangah walking beside him. Heewon isn’t far behind, arms crossed, looking at me like she’s about to lecture me.
"You should’ve answered your messages," she says, unimpressed. "We were worried, idiot."
I rub the back of my neck, feeling a little guilty. "Yeah, sorry about that."
Yoo Sangah smiles kindly. "It’s okay. We’re just glad you’re back."
Hyunsung nods firmly. "Do you need anything? Water? Snacks?"
Sooyoung elbows me, almost makes me chock because her hit landed at the wound's side but I hold it in. "Hah, see? Unlike you, these people have manners."
"Hey," I protest, but before I can argue, a familiar hand lands on my shoulder.
Yoo Joonghyuk.
"He’s fine," he says simply, then, without waiting for a response, steers me toward the school entrance like this was his plan all along.
I don’t know why I let him.
But I do.
----
Despite everything, school feels... normal. Almost too normal.
The teachers barely glance at me, the students still gossip about the latest drama, and no one acts like I was missing for a week. It’s strange. Unsettling, even.
But then lunchtime comes.
I barely get my tray before Sooyoung drags me to our usual table, the others already seated.
"So," Heewon says, taking a sip of her drink, "are we going to talk about how you got hurt, or are we all just pretending it didn’t happen?"
I poke at my food. "Preferably the second option."
Sooyoung clicks her tongue. "Nope, too late. You don’t get to disappear for a week and then pretend it was nothing."
"It was nothing."
She narrows her eyes. "Kim Dokja."
Uh-oh. Full name usage.
"Fine, fine," I sigh. "I just got into some trouble, okay? Nothing major."
Heewon gives me a skeptical look. "Right. Because ‘some trouble’ usually ends with a stab wound."
"Knife wounds are major," Hyunsung adds, concerned.
I groan. "Okay, yes, but I’m fine now, so—"
Joonghyuk, who has been silent this entire time, finally speaks.
"Next time, don’t be reckless."
I pause.
The way he says it—it’s not an order, not a reprimand, just... a statement. A fact. As if he’s already decided that there will be a next time, and he’ll be there when it happens.
I don’t know how to respond to that.
"Yeah, yeah," I say instead, waving him off. "Noted."
Sooyoung smirks. "Wow, Joonghyuk giving life advice. What’s next? He starts smiling?"
Joonghyuk ignores her.
Sangah chuckles. "Well, at least we’re all together again."
A smile forms on my face hearing her words before lunch passes with the usual bickering, though I notice something odd.
Joonghyuk, who normally keeps to himself, stays close. Not just physically close, but in a way that feels... deliberate. Whenever Sooyoung tries to shove me for a joke, he catches her wrist before she can land the hit. When I reach for my drink, he slides it closer without me asking.
It’s subtle.
But the others notice.
Heewon shoots me a knowing look. Sooyoung raises an eyebrow, lips curling like she’s itching to say something.
And, because she has no self-control, she does.
"Yoo Joonghyuk," she drawls, propping her chin on her hand. "Since when did you become delicate with our Kim Dokja?"
Joonghyuk doesn’t even glance at her. "Shut up, Han Sooyoung."
"Amazing," she deadpans. "You’re actually proving my point."
Joonghyuk ignores her. Instead, he turns his attention to me and—without a word—plucks a piece of food from my tray and places it back on my spoon. As if I need assistance eating, of all things.
There’s silence.
Then—
"Pfft—"
Hyunsung coughs into his drink. Sangah politely covers her mouth, suppressing a laugh. Heewon doesn’t even bother holding back.
Sooyoung, meanwhile, looks downright delighted.
"Wow. He feeds you now?" She whistles. "Next thing we know, he’ll be tying your shoelaces."
My face heats. I put my spoon down immediately. "Joonghyuk—"
"You weren’t eating properly," he states, as if that explains everything.
I groan, dropping my head onto the table.
Sooyoung cackles. "This is the best day of my life."
----
I have this weird feeling actually. The feeling starts the moment I step into the school building.
It’s subtle at first. A few heads turning in my direction, whispers quickly dying down when I walk past. I tell myself I’m imagining it, that it’s just the usual looks people give when someone’s been absent for a while.
But then it keeps happening.
In the hallways. The classrooms. The cafeteria.
People glance at me, murmur to each other, then pretend like nothing happened when I meet their eyes.
I don’t need to hear what they’re saying to know it’s about me.
Something is off.
I try to brush it off, but the feeling lingers like an itch under my skin. It’s only when lunch rolls around that I finally get an answer.
"Hey, Dokja."
I glance up to see Heewon standing in front of me, arms crossed. She's moves from where she's sitting earlier.
"You got a minute?" she asks.
Something in her tone puts me on edge.
I glance at Joonghyuk's watch on his wrist beside me and there a few minutes left before lunch break is over, so I nod, following her a few steps away from the group. The others glance at us, but Heewon gives them a look that says not now.
She doesn’t waste time.
"Have you heard what people are saying about you?"
I blink. "No? I’ve been kind of busy recovering from almost dying, Heewon."
She exhales sharply, running a hand through her hair. "Figures. Listen, some idiot started spreading rumors. And it’s bad."
A cold weight settles in my stomach.
"What is it?" I ask, even though I already have a feeling I won’t like the answer.
She hesitates. Then, carefully—
"They’re saying your dad—"
I go still.
Ah.
Of course.
"—that he was an alcoholic," she continues, watching my reaction closely. "That he tried to kill your family. That you were there when it happened."
The cold weight in my stomach hardens into something heavier.
I don’t say anything.
Because it’s not a lie.
The details are probably exaggerated, but the core of it? The ugly truth underneath?
That part is real.
Heewon shifts uncomfortably. "I just thought you should know."
"Yeah," I say, my voice hollow. "Thanks."
She frowns. "Dokja—"
But I don’t stick around to hear the rest.
----
The end of the day comes faster than expected.
The whispers have grown louder to be honest.
They don’t bother hiding it.
"Did you hear?"
"Apparently his dad—"
"No wonder he’s so weird—"
I exhale slowly, shoving my books into my bag. It doesn’t matter. It’s just noise. I’ve dealt with worse.
And then—I let out a quiet sigh, stretching my stiff shoulders as I make my way to the locker shoe area at the back of our classroom. The others are probably already heading outside, waiting by the school gate. I should hurry.
I swap out my indoor slippers for my outdoor shoes, adjusting my bag strap. Just as I turn to leave—
"Oi, Kim Dokja."
I recognize the voice before I even look up.
Song Minwoo.
Great.
I glance over my shoulder. He’s standing a few feet away, arms crossed, the usual smug expression on his face. A couple of his friends linger nearby, watching with thinly veiled amusement.
"What do you want?" I ask, keeping my tone even.
He tilts his head, mock curiosity in his eyes. "Heard some interesting things about your family."
My grip tightens on my bag strap. "So?"
"So," Minwoo drawls, stepping closer, "just wondering if it’s true. That your dad’s a drunk who tried to off you all."
A sharp, familiar pain stirs in my chest. But I keep my face blank.
"Must suck," Minwoo continues. "Being the son of a murderer." He snickers. "Well, almost a murderer."
I don’t flinch.
Because this is exactly what he wants. A reaction. A crack in my carefully built walls.
So I give him nothing.
"Are you done?" I ask, voice calm.
Minwoo clicks his tongue, clearly annoyed that I’m not taking the bait.
"Man, no wonder you’re such a freak. Guess it runs in the family—"
A hand grabs his collar.
The room goes silent.
And standing there, looking seconds away from putting Minwoo through a wall, is Yoo Joonghyuk.
His expression is blank, but there’s something cold in his eyes. Something dangerous.
"Apologize," Joonghyuk says, voice low.
Minwoo scoffs, trying to pry Joonghyuk’s hand off. "The hell? Let go—"
Joonghyuk tightens his grip.
Minwoo’s smirk falters.
"I don’t repeat myself," Joonghyuk says, this time, while pushing lightly Minwoo's body to the back. His body stumbles to the wall outside in the hallway.
Minwoo glares. "Tch. Whatever. I was just joking."
"Apologize."
A tense beat of silence.
Then, begrudgingly—
"Sorry."
It’s forced, but Joonghyuk must decide it’s good enough, because he turns his face back towards me and ignores that face flushed of Song Minwoo with humiliation. He glares at me one last time before storming off. His friends that are waiting outside the class quickly follow.
Joonghyuk watches them go, then turns to me.
"Are you alright?"
I exhale, rolling my shoulders. "Yeah."
I expect him to leave it at that.
Instead, to my utter horror, he places a hand on my head.
The hallway is still quiet. Too many people there still watching.
I go rigid. "Joonghyuk."
He ignores me. "Don’t listen to them."
"I—"
His hand lingers for a second longer before he finally steps back.
He doesn’t wait for my response. Just turns and walks away, as if he didn’t just pat me in public.
The whispers start again.
But this time, they’re about something else entirely.
----
The sun is low in the sky by the time we gather outside the school gate, waiting for our rides. The street is busy with students heading home, cars pulling up, and the occasional shout from a friend saying their goodbyes.
I should’ve known I wouldn’t get through this without Sooyoung making a scene.
"You," she says, pointing at Joonghyuk with all the subtlety of a flashing neon sign, "are insane."
Yeah, she becomes like this as soon as her friend that was at the scene with Minwoo earlier told her what just just happened.
Joonghyuk doesn’t react. "You’re loud."
"Yeah, because I’m losing my mind! Did you really just manhandle Song Minwoo for Dokja?"
Joonghyuk barely blinks. "Yes."
"And then—" She gestures wildly. "You patted his head? In public?"
Joonghyuk takes a sip from a bottle of water. "Yes."
"You’re ridiculous."
Joonghyuk shrugs. "He was upset."
I groan, running a hand down my face. "Oh my god."
"You’re just mad because now people think Joonghyuk is your doting boyfriend," Heewon snickers, arms crossed.
"He is not—"
"Am I?" Joonghyuk asks, completely serious.
I choke on air.
Hyunsung, ever the responsible one, looks deeply uncomfortable. Yoo Sangah politely hides a smile behind her hand.
Sooyoung practically collapses against Heewon, laughing so hard she nearly wheezes.
"That’s it," I say, pressing a hand to my forehead. "I’m going home."
Joonghyuk, of course, just hands me the drink in his hand. "You haven’t finished it."
I want to die, because; since when is that my drink? You're the one who brought it for me???
Before I can argue, a familiar black car pulls up to the curb.
Joonghyuk turns to me. "Let’s go."
Sooyoung lets out an exaggerated gasp. "Oh my god. He’s personally driving you home now?"
Hyunsung clears his throat. "Joonghyuk did pick him up this morning too..."
"Wow. Amazing. He feeds you, drives you, fights for you—" She turns to the others dramatically. "At this point, he might as well carry Dokja around like a princess."
Joonghyuk considers this.
I see it. I see the thought forming in his head, and I grab his wrist before he can even think about attempting anything.
"Get in the car," I hiss through gritted teeth.
Joonghyuk, ever composed, simply opens the passenger door for me.
Sooyoung clutches her chest. "Unbelievable."
I ignore her and get in.
Joonghyuk follows, shutting the door behind him. As the car pulls away, I catch one last glimpse of my so-called friends absolutely losing it on the sidewalk.
I just groan.
A few minutes in, the inside of the car is quiet...
Joonghyuk sits beside me, looking perfectly at ease, while I stare out the window, watching the school fade into the distance. The tension from earlier still clings to me, but at least we’re out of the public eye.
It takes a few minutes before I notice something odd.
Joonghyuk isn’t driving.
Instead, there’s a man in the driver’s seat—older, dressed sharply, with the kind of no-nonsense air that screams professional handler of difficult people.
I stare at him through the rearview mirror.
He meets my gaze briefly before focusing back on the road.
I squint.
"Manager," Joonghyuk says, as if that single word explains everything.
Oh. Oh.
Of course, he has a manager.
He’s the freaking Yoo Joonghyuk.
Famous gamer. Tournaments. Sponsorships. The kind of person who probably has contracts and PR teams making sure his image stays untarnished.
And I’m just realizing now that this means he’s been getting dropped off and picked up every day like some VIP.
Wait—then what happened to his car this morning?
Before I can ask, the thought answers itself.
Outside the school gate earlier, I noticed another car.
So that’s what happened. His manager must’ve brought someone else—a personal assistant or whatever—to drive Joonghyuk’s car back to his place. Then, once they finished, the manager would take the assistant back.
Because of course Yoo Joonghyuk doesn’t park his own car.
I let out a slow exhale, dragging a hand down my face.
Rich people.
The hum of the car fills the silence between us after that.
Joonghyuk doesn’t seem bothered by the lack of conversation, arms crossed as he stares straight ahead. Meanwhile, my mind is still stuck on the fact that I’ve been casually hanging out with a guy important enough to have a manager orchestrating his daily life.
I mean, I knew Yoo Joonghyuk was famous. It’s not like I live under a rock. He’s the name you see on leaderboards, the face on gaming event posters. Even people who don’t care about e-sports recognize his name.
But knowing it and seeing it in action are two different things.
I sink deeper into my seat, eyeing him from the corner of my vision. "So," I say finally, "how long have you had someone babysitting your car for you?"
Joonghyuk doesn’t even blink. "Years."
Figures.
I shake my head, watching the city blur past outside the window. "Must be nice," I mutter. "Not having to worry about parking or traffic or anything like that."
Joonghyuk glances at me. "You can just ask me for a ride."
I snort. "Right. And let rumors about Yoo Joonghyuk’s mysterious ‘boyfriend’ spread even further? No thanks."
He doesn’t respond to that, just looks back ahead. But there’s a hint of amusement in his expression.
...Which is concerning.
Before I can call him out on it, his manager speaks up for the first time.
"We’ll arrive in fifteen minutes," he says, his voice smooth and professional. "Do you need anything before then, Joonghyuk?"
Joonghyuk shakes his head.
The manager nods, then glances at me through the mirror again. "And you, Mr. Kim?"
I blink.
"Uh," I say dumbly, "I think I’m good?"
Why does he sound like he’s taking orders?
I shoot Joonghyuk a suspicious look. "How rich are you?"
Joonghyuk ignores me.
The manager—because apparently this man is a professional at handling nonsense—simply nods again and refocuses on the road.
This is so weird.
I pull out my phone to distract myself, only to immediately regret it when I see my notifications.
The group chat is blowing up.
(My Beloved) hey loser.
(Me) …What.
(My Beloved) get in safely with ur BOYFRIEND?
I sigh, running a hand down my face.
It’s not like Joonghyuk and I always ride home together. This only started recently—after the whole incident that landed me at home for a week. Before that, we barely interacted outside of class. But apparently, once Yoo Joonghyuk decides something, it stays decided, and now I’m just… in his car. Regularly.
Unfortunately, my friends have noticed.
(My Knight) Sooyoung.
(My Beloved) what. am i wrong?
(Knight's #1) Let’s not tease him too much…
(My Beloved) I WILL tease him too much actually. bc what the hell was that back there.
(Me) A normal car ride.
(My Beloved) NORMAL???????
(My Knight) dokja.
(My Knight) you didn’t even look surprised when he showed up with his driver.
(Me) …and?
[My Beloved) AND??? and ur just okay w this??? yoo joonghyuk showing up all dramatic like he’s escorting his fragile little spouse home??????
(That genius Girl) It was a bit romantic.
(Me) you too, sangah??
I sigh again, rubbing my temples. This group chat has been a mess since its creation.
Originally, it was just me, Heewon, and Sooyoung. Then Hyunsung got added because Heewon kept making him do favors for her, and Sangah joined shortly after because she was the only one who could stop Sooyoung from causing chaos.
For the longest time, it was just us five.
Then, somehow—against all odds—Joonghyuk ended up in here too because one day, Sooyoung just-
(4:30) I'm going to add Yoo Joonghyuk in the group.
(4:30) No.
[Han Sooyoung has added Yoo Joonghyuk to the chat.]
(Kind Sir) Remove me.
(My Beloved) lol no.
And just like that, he was stuck with us.
It took him weeks to actually participate in the conversation. Mostly, he’d just lurk in the background while the rest of us yelled at each other. But now…
(My Knight) be honest. is this a thing now. do you two just leave together every day like that.
I hesitate.
Because… yes. Kind of.
I glance at Joonghyuk, who is still sitting beside me in the car, looking completely unbothered.
Then, before I can type out a reply—
(Kind Sir) Yes.
I choke.
The group chat explodes.
(My Beloved) ?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!??!?!?!?!?
(My Knight) LMAO.
(Knight's #1) Oh…!
(That genius Girl) :)
I turn slowly to look at Joonghyuk.
"What the hell was that?" I hiss.
Joonghyuk doesn’t even glance up from his phone. "You were taking too long to answer."
I groan, slamming my head against the seat.
I’m never going to hear the end of this.
I keep my eyes on my phone, scrolling through the flood of messages in the group chat that I don't bother replying.
Then, after a while, something feels off.
I glance up.
This isn’t the usual way home.
I frown. “Where are we going?”
Joonghyuk doesn’t even look at me. “I’m dropping you off.”
Dropping me off.
At home.
Right. Different road, same destination.
My grip tightens around my phone.
It makes sense. It’s late. I should go back. My mom would want me to.
But the thought of stepping into that house again, of walking into a place that doesn’t feel right, of sitting at the dinner table where no one says anything—
I don’t want to go back.
“…Can I stay at your place instead?”
Joonghyuk doesn’t react at first. He just keeps driving, the city lights reflecting off the windshield.
Then, without turning his head, he says, “Call your mother.”
I exhale. Figures.
Pulling up my mom’s number, I press call.
She picks up almost instantly.
“Dokja?”
I swallow. “Hey, Mom.”
A pause. Then, “Are you on your way home?”
I hesitate.
“…I was thinking of staying over at a friend’s place tonight.”
There’s silence.
Then, quietly, she asks, “Joonghyuk’s?”
I glance at him, but he’s still focused on the road.
“…Yeah.”
I hear a faint clatter, like she set something down. Then, after a long pause—
“You don’t have to avoid coming home, you know.”
I flinch.
“I’m not,” I say, but it doesn’t sound convincing.
She doesn’t argue. Just exhales, long and tired. “Alright. Text me when you get there.”
“…I will.”
“Good night, Dokja.”
“…Good night.”
I lower the phone, staring at the screen for a few seconds before locking it.
Joonghyuk doesn’t say anything, but I can tell he was listening.
“…Thanks,” I mutter.
He just nods. “It’s fine.”
And just like that, his manager takes a turn.
We’re heading to his place.
When we arrive there, Joonghyuk’s house looks… full.
Which is strange, because as far as I know, only he and Mia live here.
Maybe it’s the way all the lights are on, filling the space with warmth. The living room glows softly, the kitchen light spills into the hall, and even the faint glow from another room—Joonghyuk’s, probably—adds to the illusion of life. It doesn’t feel empty. It feels lived-in.
Mia is the first to greet us.
“You’re late,” she says, standing in the doorway with her arms crossed. Then, she looks past Joonghyuk and spots me. “Oh. You.”
I blink. “That’s a cold welcome.”
Mia rolls her eyes. “What, you thought I’d throw a party just because you finally showed up?”
I huff a laugh. “Would be nice.”
She ignores that, already turning on her heel and walking into the house like my presence here is completely normal. Which, I guess, it is. This isn’t my first time meeting her.
As I step inside, something suddenly clicks in my head.
The ring.
One of my fingers, where the ring is, twitch at my sides. Mia gave it to me a week ago, thrusting it straight into my finger—a simple ring, warm from her hands. She gave me a look—Hold onto this for me. You have to stay alive long enough to give them back.
At the time, I didn’t question it. I just closed my fingers around it, feeling the cool weight press into my skin. Maybe I thought I wouldn’t have to return it at all. But now, standing here in her house, watching her casually move around like she didn’t hand me something like that, I feel kind of ridiculous.
It's weird remembering it now because I don't even notice its existence until now.
I reach onto my finger where the ring is and pull it out.
“Mia.”
She looks up from the kitchen counter, where she’s preparing ramen. “Hm?”
I hold the ring out to her. “Here.”
She freezes. Eyes flicking down to my open palm.
For a second, she doesn’t move. Then, suddenly, her face turns pink.
“…Oh.”
She swallows, staring at them like she didn’t think this moment would actually come. Then, after a beat, she reaches out—quick, almost snatching them from my hand—and curls her fingers tightly around them.
“…Took you long enough,” she mutters.
I raise an eyebrow. “I did stay alive long enough to return them. So, mission accomplished?”
Mia glares at me, but it’s weak. Her ears are still burning.
Joonghyuk, from the couch, watches in silence. His expression doesn’t change, but there’s something amused in the way he glances between us.
I stretch and drop onto the sofa beside him. “So, about that ramen…”
Mia turns back to the stove, grumbling. “Make it yourself.”
I grin. “I would, but you already started.”
She groans. “I regret giving you this ring.”
But her hand stays curled around them, and I catch the tiny, relieved smile on her face.
The kitchen light stays on as Mia prepares ramen. The living room is bright, the screen casting soft colors onto the walls. Even as we settle onto the couch—Mia in the middle, Joonghyuk on my other side—the place never feels empty.
Somewhere in the middle of the movie, Mia starts nodding off.
Joonghyuk notices before I do. “Go to bed,” he says.
Mia, despite looking like she’s about to pass out, still mutters, “M’fine.”
“You have school.”
“So do you.”
Joonghyuk exhales through his nose, like he doesn’t have the energy to argue.
Mia, victorious, leans against my arm and promptly dozes off.
I freeze.
“…This is a mistake,” I whisper. “You should’ve sent her to bed.”
“You send her,” Joonghyuk mutters.
I glance down at the sleeping ten-year-old. Yeah, no, that’s not happening.
So I stay put, letting her use my arm as a pillow.
At some point, I think I start dozing off too. The movie keeps playing, the glow of the screen casting soft light across the room. Joonghyuk shifts beside me, and the last thing I remember before everything fades to black is the warmth of both of them, solid and steady beside me.
When I wake up, it’s dark.
The TV is still on, playing the silent credits of a movie I barely remember finishing. The clock on the screen says 3:07 a.m.
For a second, I don’t know where I am.
Then, I shift—and something warm presses against me from both sides.
Mia is curled up against my left arm, breathing evenly in her sleep. Joonghyuk is on my right, his head tilted slightly back, his breathing deep and steady.
The house, despite the darkness, still doesn’t feel empty. Maybe because of the soft hum of the TV. Maybe because of the distant glow of a hallway light someone forgot to turn off.
Or maybe because, for the first time in a long while, I don’t feel alone.
I exhale quietly, letting my body relax against the cushions again.
For the first time in a while, I don’t mind being awake in the middle of the night.
I close my eyes and let sleep take me again.
Notes:
Hope you guys enjoy it >:)
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