Superm Mark - Tumblr Posts

Baby Don't Like It

MARK LEE X BLACK FEM.READER

Genre: Idol Boyfriend AU, Valentine's Day,

Warnings: Suggestive, Mature, Potential Spelling errors.

A/n: This is the Valentine's treat, the before obviously! Have fun, it'll be a while before I wite part 2. I never pre-plan these. I always write what I feel in the moment, so just wait a while please! Thank you!

A/n pt.2: In this fanfic, I used Mark's "White-blueish" hair. If you went to a 2022-23 Nct tour, you know what Im talking about. Just to stop any confusion cause I know now homeboy has Blonde at the moment ♡

Wordcount: About 800 words?

Part One:Here

Part Two: Highway to Heaven

Part three: Angel

Today is Valentine's day, you shared the day with your angel of a boyfriend. The both of you in his apartment, sitting at the kitchen Island you watched as he baked cookies for the both of you. He talked about his day at work before the two of you met up.

His cute voice rambling about many things you could get lost in and listen to for hours. He eventually stopped, and looked up at you to see you watching him intensity. Realizing he'd been going on and on he stayed quiet for a bit before speaking once more.

"—Anyway, enough about me and my day. Tell me about yours gorgeous", he said adjusting his glasses.

You smiled finding him cute, "Nothing too interesting kitten, it was pretty boring." He gazes at you then continues kneading the cookie dough. "I'm sorry Y/n, I hope it gets better."

"Oh it already gotten better Mark, You’re celebrating Valentine's day with me. I really appreciate it!"

Mark snickers looking up past his lenses, "Anything for you, but...Kitten?" He questioned as he looked at you from the other side kitchen island. "I thought it'd be cute", you admitted, "Don't like it? I can stop."

"No, not at all", He says looking down at the bowl. His cheeks on fire, "I like it..No— I love it actually. It's just you suprised me." You nod, confirming that he was comfortable with it. Hopping down from the stool you walk your way over to Mark.

"Want to let me help?"

"What no, just sit and look beautiful. Im almost done." You make space for yourself shifting into the space between the counter and Mark. "Let me help!" you exclaim wrapping your arms around his neck. He laughs, "Y/n, babe Im almost done. All I have to do is put the dough on the pan."

"Then let me do that!"

Mark lets out that cute laugh of his, "Jagiya..You're in my way."

"I know Mark", you confessed as you playfully puckered your lips out to him. His lips soon meet yours, softly pressing to yours he sighs against them. Pulling away he snakes an arm around your waist gazing down at you.

"Mark Lee.."

"Yes?"

"You look fine as fuck today." Mark flushes, revealing a cutesy hue across his face. "Thank you Jagi, you look stunning today too." Mark bends down to kiss you once more, the rim of his glasses touching your face. He attempts to pull away but your slender fingers manage to get a grasp of his collar keeping him close to your face.

"I have a question Mark."

"Ask me."

"Do you perhaps...Have anything planned for tonight?" Marks eyes glued to your lips, soon your back touching the counter behind you. "I do", he said eyes now locked onto yours.

"Im ready to give my all to you Y/n", Mark stated flustered. You teeth bitting your bottom lip, while tracing your fingers along the buttons on his collared shirt. "Mark."

"Mhm?" You pulled away watching his face carefully,"You do know...We don't have you if you're not ready, right?"

Surprised, he'd thought you'd catch the hint that he was more than ready..but he was always kind of 'Naive-ish'. One thing about you and Mark's relationship, was that Mark was a virgin. This didn't mean anything to you, you didn't mind at all. He was a bit shy to tell you though, not having any experience made him a bit nervous to confess. Especially when you told him you'd been with your ex in a previous relationship.

"Wouldn't you perfer someone with experience?", He asked. You shrugged expressing to him, it didn't matter to you whether he had been with an ex or not. All that mattered was that if they were clean and he was ready; and that Mark was. Before anything the both of you took tests and shared results, showing eachother you were clean.

You communicate to him that whenever he was ready for his first time, it was up to him. He was glad you'd let him take his time, and in the meantime he'd return the favor by slowly unraveling, showcasing his sensual skills. From making out, to grinding, to fingering... Nothing past that until now.

"Jagiya, What better time than now?", he states leaning in. Mark places his hands on the back on your thighs, hoisting you up onto the counter. The action made you flustered, you hid your face a little behind your hand. "W-What about the cookies you were just baking?"

Mark chuckles glancing at your thighs then up at your covered face. His hands on either sides of you as you sat on the counter. He tilted his head, as his brow, amused. "I WAS trying to bake, but you got in my way and seduced me."

"Well I wouldn't say seduced." You attempt to play innocent lifting your leg to rub against his thigh. "Kitten, I haven't even gotten started."

Mark softly stroking your leg, chuckling lightly. "Why'd you suddenly bring up baking when you were just in the middle of flirting with me? Did I make you nervous when I lifted you up and sat you on the counter?"

You squint your eyes turning away, "What is this? An interrogation? So many questions.."

"Mark..", you sighed. You yelped feeling teeth nip at your skin. Your boyfriend pulled away showcasing a bruise. You gasped, "Mark! You know I love wearing skirts and dresses!"

Mark teases you, "Oh yes..An interrogation, you seem nervous. Should I hook you up to a lie detector?" Marks hands make their way to your thighs, slightly separating them. His white hair brushing against your skin as he leans down to kiss your thighs.

"Oh no! I'm sorry! I should've asked!", He panicked. You pulled him close, gently kissing his flushed cheeks. "Im just kidding Kitten."

He calmed down, softly exhaling. Slightly pulling up your flowy dress mid thigh, "You can leave another one Mark." Mark smiles,"Maybe just one more for the time being..I wouldn't want everyone to see."

Mark grips your thighs once more, slowing spreading them. Kissing them while keeping his eyes on you. You slightly hide your face having his glares were making you nervous.

The softness of his cute lips against your plump thighs making you hungrier for his love. "Mark–"

"Hm?" He hums against your skin. "Is this really okay for me to be on this counter?"

He pauses his little teasing-like kisses looking at you, "Mm..Yes why?"

"Well, you were just baking here— and I uh.."

Mark blinks rapidly, "So..Is this your suggestion to move to the bedroom?" You gasp, seeing as it did sound that way. "Oh..I didn't mean it that way! It came out that way." Mark only smiled, delicately pushing you down on the counter. Your back now against the cool material causing you to shiver.

Mark locking your wrists down to the cool pavement. "Y/n..", Mark quietly whispers as he look down at you. "Hm?" He smiles, his expression a little wry. "I want to be honest, Im slightly nervous." You watched his face, giggling.

"What are you laughing at?" He frowned.

"You. I know, I'm sorry Mark. You're cute."

Pulling yourself up you hop down from the counter, grabbing Mark's hands. "Mark In all seriousness, It's alright, I was there once too." You placed his hands on your waist, pulling him close.

"You somehow make me feel confident."

"That's good—", You say standing on your toes. You gently kiss Mark's adam's apple watching him flustered in dismay. "Confidence is key."

Soon before you know it, you're thrown up and over Mark's shoulders. The entire action catching you off guard, though you didn't complain. Mark, effortlessly lifting hoisting you up and about was really attractive.

"Ah! Mark!", you laugh.

"You're really dangerous, you know that?" Mark asks as he begins to walk. You giggle, placing your hand upon his shoulder. "Is that a good thing? Or a bad one?", you tease.

"A good thing, A wonderful thing, you beautiful Minx."

"Mark!", you playfully hit his shoulder. Mark chuckles enjoying the view beside him.

"Hold on to me, we're going up stairs." Hearing this only made you more excited to experience the long night you had ahead of you.

"Hurry up then", you breathe hungrily.

Mark smiles, glad to know you're just as excited as him.

"Of course love, besides I still have to give you the rest of your Valentine's Gift."

Written May 11th.

(I know its mothers day but, I had this in the drafts for a while so, here you go!)

✨[ 22:27 pm ] – m.l.✨

© sparklysung – 2021. all rights reserved. no reposts, modifications and/or translations allowed.

note – i wasn't planning on posting this rn, but i woke up and couldn't get back to sleep so i thought why not be productive and do something you guys may like. enjoy!

[non-idol! au; sub! mark, dom! reader, edging, orgasm denial, dacryphilia, praising; 203 words]

"you look so pretty while crying, baby," you cooed at him, your free hand coming to stroke his thigh soothingly.

"p-please, i can't take more," mark's legs were shaking while hot tears fell down his flushed cheeks, wetting them.

you bit back your smirk, gently brushing his hair out of his eyes. mark balled his fists, wrinkling the sheets under his fingers. "it's okay, i know you can, baby."

"i-i've been so good, s-so so good for you," soft cries of both pleasure and pain escaped his lips.

he was desperate by now.

“i-i've accepted every ruined orgasm like a good boy, i haven't complained once,” his hips writhed under your touch, trying to get away from the strong feeling your hand was giving him. "let me cum, just once, please."

“you're right, baby, you've been so good for me,” your hand's movement slowed down, almost stopping, while your index finger traced the vein of his cock.

mark thought that maybe, just maybe, you were going to let him finally cum.

oh boy, was he wrong.

"but good boys just take what's given to them, so you can take one more."

and just like that, his fourth orgasm of the night was ruined.

–lia:)

SUPERM ♥️

JOPPING ♥️💕😍

SUPERM - JOPPING ♥️♥️

JOPPING ♥️

#supermjopping

#SUPERMJOPPING

So I made christmas banners using the superm christmas eve photos!!!!!!

.⋆｡⋆˚｡⋆｡˚｡⋆˚｡⋆｡˚please, enjoy .⋆｡⋆˚｡⋆｡˚｡⋆. .⋆｡⋆

Lee Mark- "All that you are is all I'll ever need"

It's pretty cold outside at 10 p.m, and you wrap your black sweater a bit tighter around you as another gust of wind passes by, chilling you to the bone.

It's still enjoyable, though, somehow.

You close your eyes, listening to the chirp of the birds and the howl of the wind, persistent and angry.

Your fingers run through the grass you're currently lying on, admiring the way the green bands bow under your touch.

It's calming, and it somehow makes your heart warm even though you're starting to lose feeling in your face due to the harsh wind.

"You're unbelievable".

You blink your eyes open at the familiar voice, not surprised in the slightest to see your boyfriend standing above you with an exasperated expression on his face, holding a thermos in his left hand and a furry blanket in the other.

He looks soft, wearing an oversized olive green sweater and black joggers, and he's shivering slightly due to the low temperature outside.

You smile at him teasingly, rolling on your stomach to look at him clearly. "And yet you don't look surprised at all".

Mark huffs dramatically at your response, glaring at you momentarily before sitting next to you on the grass, wincing when his bottom touches the ground.

"You don't have to be here and suffer because of me, you know", you say softly when he spreads the blanket over the both of you, the soft material immediately warming you up.

Mark doesn't answer for a second, handing you the thermos in silence, which you already know contains your favorite peppermint tea.

"I know", he says simply, taking a sip out of his own cup of tea, his face momentarily covering in steam. "But if you insist on coming here, the least I can do is make sure you don't freeze to death".

You roll your eyes at that, but you feel warm all over, and you think it might be because of Mark Lee and not just because of the blanket covering you and the hot beverage in your hands.

"I'll be fine", you smile at him gently, shifting so you're sitting in front of him, almost on top of him, your thighs placed on his legs and your feet on the sides of his hips. "I'm a big girl"

"Maybe, but you're my girl as well."

You feel your face turn red at your boyfriend's words, and, judging by the blush dusting his cheeks, he's just as surprised by his comment as you are.

"Anyways...", He looks down, playing with his cup awkwardly, "I'm staying".

You stare at him for a second, considering all the possibilities before sighing deeply, "Okay".

You lean forward, wrapping your arms around Mark's torso, laying your head against his chest so you can feel the beat of his heart against your ear.

He sighs as well, a sigh of satisfaction mixed with annoyance, before wrapping his own arms around your waist, kissing your temple gently.

The two of you stay like that, with Mark rubbing his thumbs gently against your hipbones, his cheek pressed to the top of your head so you can feel the warmth of his breath against you.

"Why do you come here anyway?", He asks after a few minutes of silence, one of his hands carding through your hair gently as he speaks.

You shrug against him, your words muffled by the material of Mark's shirt when you answer. "Helps me think".

"You can't think inside our apartment?", Mark asks sarcastically, yelping when you bite his bicep as a punishment.

You change your position after that, so Mark's lying on his back now with you held tightly against his chest, legs tangled together and your head placed right under his chin.

You stare at the sky. It's so dark outside, especially where you live, so far away from the city and detached from the rest of the people.

But thanks to the darkness, you get to see the stars.

You move your eyes from the stars in the sky to the stars in your boyfriend's eyes. He's already looking at you, a small smile on his face, and you giggle, curling closer to him.

"See what I mean?", You whisper, returning your attention to the universe above you. "It's beautiful", you say, tone hushed and small, afraid to ruin the peacefulness of the moment

"Yeah, it is", you don't even need to turn your head to know Mark's looking at you, and you feel your cheeks darken once again.

Slim fingers tilt your head gently, and then your mouth is pressed against Mark's soft one, sliding over each other with ease that comes with familiarity.

You clutch at the soft fabric of your boyfriend's sweater, pulling him even closer till your nose bump against each other, causing you to laugh silently into each other's mouths, soft and loving.

Mark pulls away slightly, keeping his forehead pressed against yours, staring into your eyes with what can only be described as love.

"You bring me peace, baby. Which is why I'll go outside in the freezing weather, in the middle of the night, just to be with you".

You smile, leaning forward to kiss Mark once more, a soft peck that makes something bloom deep in your heart.

"I love you."

Superm reaction to you being scared of horror movies:

Baekhyun:

This brat will force you to watch horror movies with him, even going as far as lying to you about the film being a rom-com ("I swear to God, babe, it's 'The Kissing Booth!"), but it is only because he's so whipped for you clinging to him with your head tucked in his neck uwu. Honestly, he doesn't care about the movie, too focused on the way you're fisting his shirt like it's your lifeline, and he'll shut the TV off soon enough, wrapping his arms around your waist and chuckling softly to himself as he calms you down ("Oh, princess, don't be scared, I'll protect you.") The night will probably end with Baek singing in your ear until your breathing steadies and you fall asleep, still holding him close to you, and your boyfriend won't be able to stop his grin when he sees your pretty face, pressing a gentle kiss to your forehead. "Goodnight, beautiful."

Taemin:

Why is he so unbothered kkkk? You were probably the one wanting to get your ever-so-calm boyfriend a bit flustered, hoping that the scariest movie of the year will manage to break his walls. But of course you ended shaking with fear, while Taemin stared into the eyes of all the zombies on the screen without flinching once. Your boyfriend will probably be so confused as to why you're hiding behind the couch pillow when you were the one who wanted to see this movie to start with, but he'll still be super soft, pausing the film and pulling the cushion away from your face carefully, smiling unconsciously when you let out a small shriek ("You're so cute, sweetie."). Tae will rush to the kitchen to get you a cup of water and sit by you for however long you need, rubbing your back gently, and just be the perfect boyfriend while you blush at your own stupidness ("You have nothing to be scared of, beautiful. It's just a movie, okay?")

Kai:

I feel like Kai won't even notice that you're hiding behind the couch until the middle of the movie lmao. Like, he'll just be so entranced by everything happening on the screen, his eyes wide and mouth slightly ajar ("Oh my god, does human liver really look like that?"), he won't even realize you're scared to death until you accidentally let out a little whimper of fear. When he sees you curled up into a tiny ball in the corner, he'll be quick to shut off the movie, not thinking twice before rushing to you, thinking you somehow got hurt ("Babe, what's wrong?!"). When you'll explain to him that you're scared, he'll smile in relief before gently tugging your arm and taking you to bed, promising you that he'll never see a horror film with you again ("It wasn't even that good... Definitely not worth the time.")

Taeyong:

The two of you are screaming the whole movie together lmao. I feel like Taeyong will want to protect you when he notices how scared you are, but at the same time he's trying not to piss his pants, so he'll hug you tightly, comforting you and him at the same time. But at some point, when the two of you are practically in each other's laps, eyes wide and quivering and mouth hanging open, he'll save the two of you from future pain, getting up quickly and shutting off the television with a shaky hand. After that, the pair of crackheads that you're will dash to your bedroom, occasionally getting scared of each other and the furniture on the way ("AHH something is touching me!!! Wait- it's just your leg"). When you reach the bedroom, you'll cling to each other tightly, your boyfriend rambling quietly until the two of you fall asleep in each other's arms ("Nothing is going to happen, movies aren't real, it's just actors with makeup on.")

Ten:

So Ten is going to enjoy the movie, while low-key being scared out of his mind lmao. Your boyfriend is definitely the type to catch on pretty soon on how you cower a little more every time there is a jump scare, and he can't help but smirk to himself as he thinks about pranking you. So the next time the murderer appears on the screen, Ten is screaming loudly, causing you to scream as well and yeet yourself off the couch, running down the hallway and towards your room. Ten will be slightly shocked by your reaction, but he's quick to pause the movie and run after you, calling out your name ("Y/N?? Babe, come back.") When he finally finds you, hiding under the covers of your bed, he'll coo gently, picking you up in his arms and pressing sweet butterfly kisses all over your face, apologizing profusely as he does. ("I'm so sorry, angel, I shouldn't have scared you.")

Lucas:

Lucas won't be scared during the movie, rather mildly surprised and slightly taken aback by the gruesome scenes on the screen, as if he didn't understand the meaning of the word 'horror' ("Damn, that's a lot of blood."). The second he'll notice that you're scared though, he's quick to turn off the film, taking off the blanket covering you and tugging you up by your interlaced hands. When you ask him where you're going, he doesn't reply, simply leading you out the door of your apartment. The two of you roam around the streets for a while, listening to the calming sound of the chirping birds and howling wind, Lucas talking with you mindlessly about everything and nothing ("It's just cool how birds can fly, you know?"). Only when you're boyfriend is sure you're back to your cheery self, will he lead you back to your house, still holding your hands tightly in his own.

Mark:

Mark wouldn't even pay attention to the movie, too busy sending you worried glances every few seconds. From the start, he was reluctant about watching a horror movie of all genres, knowing how much you hate spooky things ("Are you trying to torture yourself??"). But of course, he couldn't say no to your adorable puppy eyes and big, sad pout. So he'll be on the edge of his seat the whole film, wincing slightly when another demon appears on the TV, before shooting your trembling form a weary glance. Finally, only halfway into the movie, he gets up to turn the screen off, not being able to take it anymore, before gently picking you up in his arms, bridal style, and taking you to your shared bedroom, mumbling words of assurance in your ear quietly as he does ("Monsters aren't real, babe. You're safe with me.").

Superm reaction to you kissing them out of nowhere:

Baekhyun:

The two of you will be taking a few selfies, Baekhyun's arm slung around your shoulder protectively when you decide to be a little bolder than usual, leaning up to press a gentle, sweet kiss to your boyfriend's cheek, his eyes widening when he feels the press of your warm lips against his soft skin. Your confidence will disappear quite quickly though, when said boyfriend will turn to you with a smirk, his eyes mischeviouslly seductive, until you can't help but blush, avoiding his eyes and making him let out a fond chuckle. But despite his arrogant attitude, Baek will be positively melting on the inside, staring at you lovingly when you push him away, admiring your red cheeks and shy smile.

"You can kiss me in an another place if you want, don't be shy, babe."

Taemin:

Taemin will just be cooking the two of you some late-night ramen, standing in the kitchen in all of his sleepy glory, wearing loose sweats and an old shirt, looking so goddamn adorable with his messy hair and puffy eyes, that you can't help but lean up to him, pressing a loving peck to his round nose. Your boyfriend will smile at the soft, cute gesture, a pink blush coating his round cheeks as he stops stirring the half-cooked noodles to sling his arms around your waist, leaving his own gentle kisses all over your face, cupping your face with his warm hands. You'll probably end up burning your midnight-snack because you'll be too caught up in each other, giggling like high-schools students as you sway from side to side, embracing each other.

"Don't worry about the ramen, dear. You taste better than anything else."

Kai:

It'll probably happen when the two of you are watching a movie together, your bodies entertwined under the covers, a thick, wool blanket covering the two of you. You're lying on Jongin's chest, admiring his handsome features more than you were looking at the screen of the television lol, and you can't help but lean down and leave a soft, fond kiss on his temple, before leaning your head back down on his shoulder. Kai will tense underneath you the second your lips will touch his skin, practically holding his breath as you go back to cuddling him, and his face will be beet-red, his inner fanboy practically screaming as he finds it impossible to erase the goofy grin surfacing his lips and go back to concentrating on the long-forgotten film.

"Sorry... I didn't really notice what the movie was about."

Taeyong:

Taeyong is driving you to your house after a dinner date at a restaurant in Seoul, one of his hands placed on the black, leather steering wheel while the other is intertwined with your hand, stroking the back of it absentmindedly. You've been spending the last few minutes just staring at his face, admiring the sharp line of his jaw and the gentle slope of his nose, before you bring his hand up to your lips, leaving butterfly kisses all over his bony knuckles. Your boyfriend will giggle immediately, turning slightly awkward as he stutters over his words, saying random things, the wide grin not leaving his face for the rest of the ride and probably the rest of the day as well.

"Hahaha, what was that for? I mean, not that I didn't like it, but it was just so random-"

Ten:

Ten would just be getting out of a concert with Superm, his sweaty, black hair sticking to his forehead, still wearing the fancy, ruffled white shirt and black dress pants from the performance, when you rush over to him, pressing a long, passionate kiss to his lips. You were just so impressed and shocked from how amazing Ten was, and it seems like words could never quite describe how talented he really is. Your boyfriend will freeze momentarily, his cheeks turning red as his arms wrap around your slim waist on their own accord, pulling you closer. But when he'll recover from his initial shock he won't hesitate to ask you to kiss him again, smirking slightly when it's your turn to get flustered, burying your face in his neck at the bold question.

"I like that. Can you do it again, princess?"

Lucas:

It would be morning and you're in the kitchen making some pancakes, humming to the pop song playing on the radio. You woke up with a good mood today, which might explain why the second your boyfriend stumbles through the doorway, still rubbing his eyes tiredly, his chocolate hair sticking in odd directions, you walk over to press a gentle kiss to his cheek, mumbling a morning greeting against the tanned skin before pulling away, smiling shyly. Lucas will stop mid-yawn lol, his hand coming up to trace the spot you just pressed your lips to, the sleepiness disappearing from his big eyes. Then he'll laugh shyly, averting his eyes from yours before leaning down to press his own kiss, this time to your lips.

"Good morning, beautiful."

Mark:

It'll be after a long day of studying, when the only thing you want to do is go back home, eat some unhealthy snack, and spend the night in Mark's arm, cuddling. But of course, the second you come home your boyfriend will surround you, asking about your day, telling you about his day, and just generally being the sweet, enthusiastic lover he was, which you usually loved, but right now you just needed some quiet. So you lean up, pressing a kiss to Mark's lips in order to shut him up, and it works like a charm, the other stopping his story mid-sentence, a blush coloring his cheeks. He'll completely forget everything, his mind just filled with thoughts about how adorable you are, and he'll voice them out loud, causing you too blush as well, so the two of you are just two shy tomatoes lol.

"Why are you so cute, oh my god? What was I talking about?"

#markhyuck mullet hair with skintan? OFC.

I Will Follow You Into The Dark

Here’s another piece I’ve written during depressing times, and I hope you’ll like it as much as you like my fluffy and sometimes sexually awkward stories. 

Get ready to see guitar-playing Mark Lee again here, so here’s a photo of that for you. 

Mahal ko kayong lahat! :)

–––

Summary: Although I’m not her biggest fan, I never thought that Sulli’s death would leave an impact on me. This piece was inspired by her passing last year, and my favorite comfort song whenever someone precious to me dies. 

POV: 3rd person this time. 

Word count: 1,300 + words 

Warning: There are mentions of self-harm here since Essie hasn’t been cured of it yet. 

Recommended listening: The title of the piece should already be a giveaway, but as always, I’ll put it down below so you can listen to it repeatedly while you read this. 

–––

Essie couldn’t believe it. One of her close friends, Yuki, committed suicide. There wasn’t any alarm or warning. She didn’t notice that her friend was struggling. Yuki was always smiling, comforting her every time she ranted about her life. Although they didn’t always meet, their phone conversations made up for it.

Whenever she was left alone in the house, one of the people she would always call was her. Pretty, timid, and kind Yuki. She looked delicate on the outside, but it turns out she was even more on the inside.

Essie learned the news from Aoi, a common friend of theirs. The girl was crying over the phone, and it took a couple of tries for Essie to understand the situation.

“Yuki’s dead, Essie. She hanged herself.”

The phone slipped out of her hand first before her body came next, hitting the cold floor with a hard thud. They were of the same age.

As she picked up the phone again, Aoi had already dropped the line. She sighed in frustration and wept at the sofa.

Good thing she was alone – she screamed at the top of her lungs first before bursting into tears once more.

\\\

Essie was a horrible mess the day after. She didn’t talk to Johnny or Mark. She was staying at their apartment for now since hers was under repair.

At first, the two guys chalked it up to PMS. But when they found out from Nini what happened, Johnny was the first to bang on Essie’s door.

“Baby, please open up,” he pleaded, close to tears at how his best friend had suddenly shut him off.

Essie wasn’t responding. She was curled up in a ball on her bed, still in her pajamas. Her mind was clouded with all the bad thoughts she had been repressing.

When someone takes their own life, she always had the itch to do the same.

She had a new pair of scissors on her desk. She also had a sharp letter opener inside one of her drawers. There were many objects that she could draw blood from.

She tuned out the world to listen to her diabolical yet devastating thoughts until it bored her to sleep.

\\\

When she did get out of her room, she saw Mark on the couch with his guitar. Her mouth was itching to say something, but it never came.

She did her best to move silently so he wouldn’t bother her. She just wanted to be alone, but at the same time, she couldn’t be left alone.

Both guys didn’t know of her suicidal tendencies, and if they do, they would never leave her side.

As Essie rummaged through the fridge (it was a bit far from the couch so she didn’t mind if Mark could hear the clinking of glass against plastic), she heard him strum the introduction of one of her favorite songs.

Love of mine, someday you will die                    

But I'll be close behind and I'll follow you into the dark

He always surprised her with the songs he sang with his guitar as of late. She couldn’t help but get teary-eyed again as he sang the melancholic song.  

Yuki was one of the people she truly cherished. They were childhood friends, just like with Nini. Although the latter was her forever classmate, Yuki became her close friend when they always joined the same clubs. They joined the choir, the dance club, and even the bookworm one. They kept in touch even if they went to different high schools and colleges. Now that they were both working, they still called each other almost daily.

However, all of that is gone as she took her own life yesterday.

If heaven and hell decide that they both are satisfied

And illuminate the no's on their vacancy signs

If there's no one beside you when your soul embarks

Then I'll follow you into the dark

She got a pitcher of water from the fridge and closed it gently, still wanting not to be heard by Mark. On the contrary, the younger guy knew she was out of her room. He had a keen sense of listening, and he was familiar with how her footsteps sounded.

To sympathize with her situation, he decided to play a song that he thought fit the situation. He found one in her playlist, and it took him an hour to learn it.

And the soles of your shoes

Are all worn down

The time for sleep is now

But it's nothing to cry about

'Cause we'll hold each other soon in the blackest of rooms

He heard her sniffle, but he had to finish the song. He closed his eyes to concentrate, hoping he did justice to one of Death Cab for Cutie’s masterpieces.

As he strummed the last chord, he waited in silence if she would go to him or not. He was shocked that she did, holding a glass of water.

“Thanks for playing that, Mark. That was beautiful,” she started, her voice hoarse from crying.

He patted the space beside him, and she sat. She put the glass on the table first before she got a pillow to cover her rumpled pajamas.

“I’ve heard about Yuki…” he said, rubbing the back of his neck out of nervousness. He didn’t want to make her cry with his words. “And I thought of singing this song because I’m also empathizing with you…” He looked at his guitar as he ended his statement, afraid of her reaction.

“Thank you again, Mark. That’s sweet of you,” he heard her say gently, and he also heard the rustling of fabric. He suddenly felt warm, and he saw that her hand was on top of his.

“M-May I?” He asked, looking at her hand and his. She nodded, and he clasped it in his clammy hand. She didn’t mind it at all – it was the thought that mattered.

They held each other’s hand for a moment, feeling each other’s warmth. Eventually, he had to place the guitar on the floor as they faced each other. He saw how depressed she looked – her eyes were puffy and red, and there were tear stains on her clothes.

He wanted to hug her right then and there, which took him a lot of courage to do. It took him a few minutes before he pulled her closer to him and wrapped his arms around her. He cradled her to his chest, and she buried her face on his shoulder.

Their embrace comforted her, and he even gently rocked their bodies together. “I’m here, Essie noona…I’ll always be here for you,” Mark said softly, one of his hands combing through her curly locks.

The older girl continued to cry, her face still on his shoulder. Her arms were loosely wrapped around his neck, which he had to adjust from time to time as he could feel them getting limp.

This was the closest they have ever been, and deep inside, he wished this moment would never end.

Alas, all good things come to an end – Johnny texted him that tomorrow morning was Yuki’s funeral. He texted Mark because it was futile to talk to his best friend, even though the information he was sharing was for her.

If only his hyung knew that he and Essie were having a moment right now…

As he told her of this information, the girl could only nod her head and broke off from his hold. She trudged towards her bedroom, and he helped her, one arm looped around her shoulder.

Once she was settled on her bed, he tucked her in and planted a kiss on her temple. “We’ll go there with you if you want,” he said as one of his hands found its way into her hair again. He loved combing through her hair and seeing how satisfied she is whenever he took out some difficult knots.

“Yes, please. I need you two,” she murmured. Mark continued to play with her hair until she fell asleep.

“Sweet dreams, my dear Essie noona,” he whispered before closing the door to her room.

–––

FIN

The Dream Synopsis

Sometimes, you write with a goal in mind, and then it ends up in a way you didn’t expect it to. Does anyone have a similar, if not the same, experience? 

Let me know through the comments! 

Anyway, here’s Johnny looking like he stepped out of my dream in this GIF. 

Mahal ko kayong lahat! :) 

–––

Summary: This was supposed to be a sweet and fluffy Johnny and Essie piece, but then I don’t know why I had to include hurt and angsty Mark into the mix.

POV: 3rd person here. 

Word count: 1,300 + words 

Warning: I never go all the way yet with Johnny and Essie, but this is the closest thing we’ll get to them getting it on for now. 

Recommended listening: I’m going to include the song that shares the same title below. If you must know, and if it isn’t obvious enough with the previous song recommendations, I’m a big Alex Turner fan.

–––

It was during their off-days that Johnny cherished his time with Essie the most.

He loved lazy weekend afternoons, with the curtains gently moving because of the cool breeze. He and Essie would be on the couch, listening to a curated playlist either one of them made or a record of their choosing. Jaehyun gifted them a record player like his, which delighted the girl.

They usually talked about anything and everything while they were on the sofa. Most of the time, Essie would be lying on top of Johnny’s lap, raising her arms in the air to illustrate her point. Sometimes, he would lean his head against her shoulder and then bury his face in her chest when he wanted to cuddle further.

Their hands were always over and around each other, making them a giggly, tangled mess. They would be more so when they had drinks on the coffee table – coffee for Johnny and beer for Essie. They loved how each other tasted when they kissed. Essie became more tolerant of bitter tastes while Johnny became desensitized to the stench of alcohol.

In one of those ideal moments, he talked to her about his recent dream. “I was playing the piano at an empty theater, wearing the usual velvet suits they make us wear. And I was told that it was a full house,” his eyes never left her face as he shared his story.

“Maybe the organizer was a ghost, and a bunch of dead people were there watching your performance,” she replied after a moment, a smile forming on her face.

“Isn’t that creepy, baby? I mean, what the heck? Why would I dream of dead people?” He sat up, shaking his head a little. He ran his hands through his hair, which seemed to help him compose himself.

Essie watched him fuss about his hair still with the same dopey smile on her face. The little things he did always made her heart feel warm and fuzzy, as cheesy as it sounds. She was extremely lucky to call him hers, which she hoped he felt the same way.

The guy didn’t notice the look of adoration on his girlfriend’s face as he cleared his throat, staring into the space ahead. “Sorry, baby, am I boring you with my story? It must be torture when I talk about my dreams…” he mumbled, tucking his head into his chin with shame.

“No, not at all! I find it fascinating, really.” The girl shifted from her position and moved closer to him. “Talking about dreams is interesting. You can interpret them in a million ways.”

When he noticed that her eyes twinkled even in the dim light of the living room, he couldn’t help but pull her closer to him and kiss her.

She responded to his action with no hesitation, hooking her arms around his neck immediately. They forgot about their world around them as they kissed.

However, they forgot that they still had a housemate who can come in whatever time he pleases.

As the couple made out with gusto, Mark Lee entered their apartment and dropped his bag on the floor. The thud it made didn’t bother Johnny and Essie, as the couple was intent on sucking each other’s faces until they were tired.

Unfortunately, it wasn’t time yet for them to stop. Essie started moaning as Johnny’s hands went down her bottom, cupping it with all his might. It made the guy grunt at how sexy that sounded, and both exchanged small (and dirty) nothings to each other.

Mark couldn’t believe what he was seeing. He wanted to sneak into his room as quietly as possible but he couldn’t keep his eyes away from the couple.

Deep inside, he felt a bit of hurt resurface. He liked Essie more than a noona. He admitted his feelings to her before, yet she politely declined him.

“Maybe it’s not the time yet, Marky. Maybe in another lifetime. But just so you know, I love you as a friend and as the little brother I never had,” those were her famous words that took him some time to recuperate from, and now the pain was back momentarily.

As he was rooted in spot watching his hyung and noona about to get it on, something inside him snapped. He walked away as silently as he could, his eyes downcast. He would watch some funny videos on YouTube to help him erase this image.

But Mark being Mark, he stubbed his toe on the dining table. “Shit,” he hissed in pain, slowly reaching his hand to soothe his toe.

The sound he made got the attention of the couple who were now looking at him.

“Oh, Mark,” Johnny started, gently prying Essie off him. “I thought you’d be back tomorrow morning.”

“Uh, flight was early. Decided to come home immediately. I missed my bed.” The young guy’s answers were clipped despite sounding like his usual self. Essie picked up on this and frowned.

“Sorry you had to see that, Marky…” she said softly, now standing up.

“No, it’s fine. You’re a couple now anyways. Making out is something couples do all the time,” he chuckled before he stepped out of the dining room completely.

Silence hung in the air for a moment until Johnny coughed. “Wow, that was a bit awkward,” he started, looking at his girlfriend.

Essie sighed, plopping back on the couch. “I know. I think he’s not yet over, you know…”

It was the guy’s turn to sigh. “I think so too, baby. But give it time. He’ll be over it.”

“You think so?” She looked up at him in worry, her eyes turning glassy with tears.

“Yeah, I do,” he sat closer to her, “and I don’t want to lose him too. He’s both the little brother we never had.”

“I find it a bit unfair that many people are affected with our relationship, and in a not-so-good way,” Essie huffed, wiping the tears that formed in the corner of her eyes.

“I know, baby. But that’s just the way it is, I guess?” Johnny leaned back on the couch, “You can’t win them all. We’re both good-looking people who click so well. And we’re friendly to everyone. We can’t help but make people fall for us.” This got the girl chuckling, who was now leaning back on the sofa as well.

“I never expected that I’ll be liked this much,” she said softly, her eyes looking at the space in front of her. It was a realization that never seemed to sink into her mind, considering how plain and normal she looked.

“Well, baby, you are wrong about that. Turns out that you’re almost everyone’s type,” he eyed her from head to toe, earning a thwack on his shoulder.

“Don’t say that!” She looked away to cover her reddening face. “I don’t know. I am flattered, but at the same time, I don’t deserve this.”

“Aw, come on!” Johnny tilted her face to look at him, and his heart ached when he saw tears coming out of her warm face. “You deserve all the love, my darling. But you can’t give it to everyone, especially if you’re looking for a partner. And I’m the happiest person to be the recipient of that special kind of love.”

Essie broke down into tears, which Johnny kissed away from her face.

“I love you, Essie Park. Please know that. Nothing can change that.”

Although his words came to her, she was at a loss on what to say. She was overwhelmed with her realization and his confession.

“Oh, John…” she mumbled, burying her face on his chest.

He held her in his arms as she wept, but his mind was thinking if she loved him as much as he did.

–––

FIN

Cool Off (Part II)

After the giggles come the tears again, and here is the second and final installment of this brief series. 

Expect a lot of depressing music here too, so if you’re up for those, I hope you’ll like my recommendations. 

Here's a photo of a young Johnny playing in front of the piano as a fitting teaser.

Mahal ko kayong lahat! :) 

–––

Summary: Read Johnny cope with Essie’s short-lived disappearance as he sings the most heartbreaking songs that she loves. 

POV: Keeping it up with 3rd person. 

Word count: 943 words 

Warning: There’s nothing that you haven’t read yet in other stories, but Italics are for thoughts and lyrics. Mostly the latter though, because I went ham with that one. 

Recommended listening: The titles of the songs are mentioned in the story, so I’ll add them at the end of the story for your listening. Feel free to suggest songs of the same caliber – I would appreciate it so much! 

–––

Since Essie hasn’t returned from her self-imposed exile, Johnny has been on his piano a lot. He usually played depressing hits late at night, probably during times when he couldn’t fall asleep due to the situation. Although Mark hears him play from the comfort of his room, this time he was able to catch his hyung hunched over the keyboard in the living room as he sang his heart out to ‘The Songwriter’ by Father John Misty.

What would it sound like if you were the songwriter

And you made your living off of me?

It was heartbreaking to see Johnny struggle with his performance, whether he was aware that someone was watching him or not. Mark bit his lip as he watched his housemate from a dark corner, crossing his arms repeatedly until he felt comfortable with his position.

Goodbye little songbird, now you’re free

Don’t forget I’m the only fan of yours who has the sense to ever leave you be

How could do this to me?

That last line broke the older guy as he stopped playing and cried for what seemed like an eternity. Mark was glued to his spot, trying not to cry with his hyung.

Never has he seen Johnny so broken over someone, and he wished that Essie would come back soon. However, even if she does come back, it would either be to resume the relationship or cut it off completely. He hoped that it was the former because Johnny will never be the same again.

What would it sound like if you were the songwriter

And loving me was your unsung masterpiece?

The six-footer stood up after finishing the song and returned to his room. It was Mark’s cue to return as well, and he found it hard to sleep after hearing that soul-crushing song.

It got more depressing after that – Johnny sang ‘Without You’ by Tobias Jesso Jr. at three in the morning, which the younger guy remembered was the most straightforward depressing song Essie ever heard. Maybe that’s why he’s playing it, he thought while he lay on his bed.

Why can’t you just love me?

Should I move on or should I wait?

And how’d you get so high above me?

I reach higher every day

But nothing changes

No, it all just stays the same

Mark heard his hyung’s voice break when the chorus came, and he couldn’t help but cover his ears a bit out of secondhand embarrassment and hurt.

I can hardly breathe without you

There is no future I want to see without you

I just don’t know who I would be without you

There is nothing out there for me without you

Without you

Once Johnny was done playing, his crying was the next sound that permeated the whole apartment.

The last song that Mark heard from his hyung before Essie returned was ‘The Ultracheese’ by the Arctic Monkeys, which he knew the couple adored. The band was one of the things that brought them closer, and it was during their concert that Johnny realized he was in love with Essie.

The song was not as depressing as the previous ones, but it still sounded painful as the older guy sang with all his hurt.  

Still got pictures of friends on the wall

I suppose we aren’t really friends anymore

Maybe I shouldn’t ever have called that thing friendly at all

This time, Johnny was able to compose himself and not let his emotions get to the best of his singing. Mark closed his eyes to savor his hyung’s rendition since it was not always he heard him cover a song like this.

Oh, the dawn won’t stop weighing a tonne

I’ve done some things that I shouldn’t have done

But I haven’t stopped loving you once

The croon at the end made the song more melancholic than it is, and the sole audience made his presence known by clapping loudly.

Johnny whipped his head to look at Mark, who was silently crying as he continued to clap. “That was amazing, hyung,” he said, slowly approaching the performer.

“Thanks, dude,” Johnny whispered, looking away from the younger guy. “I miss her so much. I wish she’ll come back now.”

“She will. You’ve just got to be patient.”

“It’s been almost two months, Mark Lee. I’m worried that she has moved on with another person. She should let me know if we’re going to continue this or not, you know?”

Johnny’s voice was starting to break again, and Mark went to his side to comfort him.

“I’m sure she will. Maybe she’ll be back tonight. I can feel it.”

His words proved to be true as the girl returned a bit past after midnight, reeking of cigarette smoke.

Mark was speechless as she popped into his room first and asked him what had happened since then.

“Noona, I’m happy you’re back and all, but please don’t cause any more trouble to your relationship with Johnny hyung by talking to me first,” he said, hoping that his honesty will not be taken against him.

“I’m sorry, Marky. But I wanted to return with a surprise. Is he asleep now?”

He took a deep breath first before responding. “Please, noona. You can surprise him now if you want. I’m sure he would be happier if he was the person you talked to.”

“Sheesh, no need to be grumpy with me, Mark,” she chuckled. “And I’m sorry again for this. Okay then, I might as well surprise him now. Thank you.” With that, she went to Johnny’s room, and they made up for lost time with tears and snuggles.

–––

FIN

Two Birthdays

I wrote this piece today in honor of today’s birthday celebrators, one of which NCTzens should know by heart. 

Mark Lee has been my gateway to the world of NCT, and now I am fully immersed in it. Well, not so much with the Dreamies but I appreciate them.

Then, who’s the other one celebrating their birthday? I guess you have to find out who! Johfam knows – don’t embarrass me, guys.

As always, I put a GIF to hype you up – here’s Marky with black hair, which is the best color on him. 

Mahal ko kayong lahat! :) 

–––

Summary: This piece is dedicated to Mark Lee and Mama Suh, who share the same birth date of August 2. Johnny and Essie prepare something for them, and then get emotional at the end. Aren’t they such attention-hogging drama queens? 

POV: 3rd person as usual. 

Word count: 1,160 words 

–––

August 2 is an important day for Johnny Suh – not only is it the birthday of his dearest eomma, but it was also the special day of his bro Mark Lee.

Since Essie Park has been living with the two boys for quite some time now, those days have also become important to her. She loves both of them – Johnny is her boyfriend, while Mark is the little brother she never had.

She woke up early to prepare a feast for the birthday celebrators, which in turn, made her partner do so as well. Both of them were puttering away at the kitchen at five in the morning, preparing a mixture of both Korean and Western dishes.

“Baby, why don’t you check on the birthday boy?” Johnny suggested after placing a newly cooked omelet on a plate with mashed potatoes and vegetables on it. Essie gave him a thumbs-up and silently ran to Mark’s room, whose door was slightly ajar. She could see that he was cocooned in his comforter, and she couldn’t tell if he was still asleep or pretending to be.

“I can’t tell if he’s still sleeping or not,” she whispered once she was back at the kitchen. The couple glanced at the clock – it read 7:40 a.m. – and giggled. “Probably not yet,” her boyfriend said, who picked up the French press nearby to make their coffee. “Let’s give him a few minutes, and then we’ll surprise him.”

\\\

At around 8:30 a.m., Essie led Johnny to Mark’s room as he carried a small tray of breakfast food. She opened the door carefully and saw that the young man was still asleep. This time, they can see his bare face – he always had a mustache forming – and they could hear him snoring lightly.

She went to the left side of the bed while Johnny went to the opposite side, placing the tray at the foot of the bed. The couple looked at each other first before they decided to surprise Mark by screaming their birthday greeting.

“Happy birthday, Mark Lee!”

The birthday boy, who is now 21 as of writing, was startled and kicked the comforter off the bed. “What the hell,” he grumbled, looking at his hyung and noona in disbelief first, “but thank you, guys. You didn’t have to scream into my ear like that.”

“But that wouldn’t be fun, right?” Johnny snickered, which earned him a glare from the younger guy. “Happy birthday, Marky!” Essie squealed, messing with his hair. He bit his lip as his hyung joined in on playing with his hair, trying his best not to be annoyed at the situation.

When they were done, Johnny reached over to the small tray and placed it closer to Mark. “Of course, you know how it is in this household when someone has a birthday. We made you breakfast fit for a king like yourself.” Essie made dramatic hand gestures to emphasize that, as there were three plates crammed into the tray that contained a full-course meal.

“Thank you again, Johnny hyung and Essie noona! I truly appreciate it,” the birthday boy said, now less grumpy than a few minutes ago. Once he got his utensils, he dug into his majestic breakfast. The couple patted his back affectionately as he bit and gulped his food.

After he finished eating, Johnny left the room briefly to grab his Polaroid camera. Then, they took pictures – the couple’s favorite was of them kissing Mark on the cheeks with the guy completely flustered in the middle.

“This is so cute!” Essie gushed, staring at the newly-developed photo lovingly. “I’m going to hang it up in my gallery. May I, love?” Johnny winked at her, which meant she could. She replied by tackling him in a hug, in which she also included Mark after.

“I love you boys so much,” she murmured while still in proximity with them. “We love you too,” they said in unison, and everyone giggled at their harmonization.

They spent a few more minutes in bed talking and teasing each other until Mark had to go home to his parents’ house to spend the rest of the day with them.

“Maybe I’ll see you tomorrow, guys. I might spend the night there,” he said as he tugged at the straps of his backpack.

“It’s okay, Mark. You deserve the time off with them. And I’m sure it has been a while you went to Mass with your family too,” Essie said softly, remembering the time that she and Mark went to church recently to pray for their intentions.

“Yeah, that’s true. Well, I’m off then. Have a nice day ahead!” Mark waved at them until he was out of their eyesight.

\\\

“Then, that leaves us with the next thing on our agenda – call Mama,” Johnny said once they retreated to the couch.

“Check what time is it there first, dummy,” Essie teased, flicking the space in between his eyebrows. “I’m sure she’s awake at this time,” he replied, rubbing the part she hit. “Come here, my big baby,” he patted the space beside him, “and let’s call her up to say our birthday greetings.”

It was already late in the evening in Chicago when the couple called Mama Suh, who was already in her pajamas. “Happy birthday Eomma! I hope you had a fun and fabulous day there,” Essie said while she waved enthusiastically at her boyfriend’s mother.

“But of course, my darling! We went to this hotel and had a nice steak and wine dinner,” the older woman shared, which got her son ‘ooh’-ing and ‘aah’-ing at the details of her day.

Johnny and Essie snuggled closer to each other as they listened to Mama Suh talk about her day and more. “I wish you two could go here again, I’d love you to experience what I had too,” she said wistfully, making the couple hug each other tighter.

“We’ll fly there again once things are better, Mama. We promise that,” her son replied.

“Yes, Ma. You can count on that. We miss you so much,” his girlfriend added.

As much as they didn’t want to end the call on a sad note, Mama Suh got teary-eyed, and soon, they were crying and sniffing.

Although it has been years since Johnny decided to work in Korea, he always made it a point to fly back to his hometown in Chicago yearly. However, given the current pandemic, he couldn’t.

The couple held each other for a while after their call, saddened by the effects of the global situation and a million other thoughts.

“Baby?”

“Yes, love?”

“Promise me we’ll be together forever?”

Essie looked at her boyfriend’s distraught face, and she kissed him squarely on the lips. “Yes, I promise you that.”

He returned the gesture and carried her to their shared bedroom, presumably to make sure that she will stay true to her words.

–––

FIN

P.S. I know, it doesn’t feature enough Mark! Don’t worry; I have another post to make up for that.

MK (Part I)

As promised, here’s another Mark post to make up for that brief birthday piece that didn’t get to highlight him that much.

I’ll try my best to post a lot of Mark content since it’s his birthday month, so stay tuned. 

Let the GIF below remind you of that. By the way, this is one of my favorite looks on him! Don’t you all agree?

Mahal ko kayong lahat! :)

–––

Summary: This piece was inspired by one of the prompts in @neoculturedrabbles​ list: 

Prompt #20: “What did you do this time?”

POV: 2nd person since I wrote this late last year. 

Word count: 749 words

–––

“Essie noonaaaaa!” It was the first thing you heard from Mark when he called you up late in the afternoon.

You just woke up from your nap and was about to start a relaxing day doing nothing, but the younger guy had to call you after drinking a glass of lukewarm lemon water.

“Yes, Mark? What can I do for you?” Your voice sounded hoarse, and you cleared your throat, so you sound better.

“I need your help, like, right now. Please. I really need you.” You sensed the fear in his voice, and you held onto your comforter tighter.

“What did you do this time?” Your voice could not hide the exasperation you felt at his call.

You should know by now that when he calls you with a whiny voice, he is up to no good.

“I forgot my wallet at home. I’m with Haechan, and you know how he is, he doesn’t bring a wallet when he’s with his hyungs,” you heard a sharp objection from his dongsaeng, “so can you please bring it here? You know how it looks like, right?”

You sighed, remembering his beat-up leather wallet that could’ve belonged to your uncle. “Yes, Mark. I know what your wallet looks like. Because I’m delivering it to wherever you and Donghyuck are eating, you have to treat me.”

It was his turn to sigh now but in defeat. “Okay, Essie noona. I got you. I’m really sorry I had to disturb you…”

“It’s fine, Mark. As long as you treat me to my fave cake and coffee, we’re good.”

The next thing you heard was Haechan laughing diabolically in the background before you hung up.

///

An hour after he called, you were on your way to the restaurant with his wallet. It felt heavy, and you wondered what it contained.

As you opened the door to the restaurant, you saw Haechan waving at you excitedly. You returned his wave in the same manner, making Mark sink deeper into his seat.

“Here you go, Mark Lee,” you said, handing his wallet before sitting down beside him. “Please don’t forget this every time you step out of the house, okay?”

He bowed in apology after getting the wallet, his face almost hitting the floor. “I’m really sorry, Essie noona,” he then looked at the guy across him, “but this one’s nagging me to hurry up a while ago, and I forgot to bring this in return!”

Haechan looked away, whistling a particular tune. You laughed at their interaction before you patted Mark on his shoulder.

“You should already expect that when you’re with him, okay?” You glanced at the blond boy, who gave you his trademark wink-and-hand-check pose.

Mark could only grumble in response, carefully fishing out bills out of his wallet.

///

After he paid for the meal he and Haechan ate, it was your turn to be treated.

You walked alongside the hyperactive boy, who you did a secret handshake with when he stood up from his seat. It took a minute and a lot of hype sounds (e.g., a lot of ‘hey’s’ and ‘get it’), making Mark embarrassed and amused at your thing.

“Hey, how come I don’t have like that with any of you?” He asked, raising an eyebrow at both of you.

“’Cause you’re not cool enough?” Haechan replied in his usual sassy way, eliciting giggles out of you. “And you’re always out, dude. How can we have a special handshake when you’re not here?” You added, planting your hands on your hips.

Your housemate pouted, defeated again with your ‘teamwork.’ “Haechan and I have become close over the past few months too,” you said softly, glancing at the guy beside you who responded with a bashful smile.

“I’m sorry that I’m always out, you know I don’t have much control with my schedule,” Mark mumbled, digging his hands deeper into his pockets. “But anyway, let’s have cake and coffee. My treat.”

You and Haechan exchanged your special high fives and screeched in delight. “Oh yeah! Mark’s treating us!”

“Guys, please. Stop doing that. It’s embarrassing,” your housemate whispered as he walked faster and farther from you.

Haechan, who was taller than you, hooked an arm around your shoulder and walked animatedly beside you. His energy was infectious, and you followed suit, later on singing a Queen song as you trailed the person who was going to treat you to dessert.

–––

FIN

Quarantine Series (Part I)

Or as I titled it in my original file: Love in the Time of Coronavirus. How original, of course. But this new series is going to be more than that, so I hope you enjoy this. 

Here’s Johnny serving boyfriend looks (as always!) with this GIF. 

Mahal ko kayong lahat! :)

–––

Summary: Consider this as a prelude to the series since I wrote this when the virus had just been declared a pandemic in early March. This piece also hinted of the boys’ trip to Houston and their now-cancelled tour, and how the virus hadn’t spread throughout the US yet. It’s a bit outdated on those details, but I guess you could shrug it off for now. 

POV: 3rd person, given the reason above and what I always say in this part. Maybe I should just stop explaining myself here and keep it simple, no?

Word count: 900+ words 

–––

Essie felt hysterical over the situation happening worldwide right now. The coronavirus has been declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization, and there are travel bans and lockdowns imposed in various countries affected by the virus. Her roommates went to the US, where there haven’t been many cases of the virus yet, and were bound to return later that afternoon.

Since she has been reading a lot of forums and news about the situation, she felt more panicked about them. My love, please take care on your way home. Are you feeling well? She texted Johnny, one of her roommates and her boyfriend of over six months, as she lay on the couch while hugging a throw pillow.

A few seconds later, he replied. Yes, baby. I know. I’m feeling fine, no need to worry. I’m aware of the situation. Even the rest of the guys are okay. We have to take good care of ourselves especially we’re going on tour a few months from now.

That’s good to hear, love. But still, I am worried. Please stay safe and healthy. I love you so much, she replied back, tears pooling in the corner of her eyes.

Johnny replied: I love you too, baby. Yes, I’ll stay safe and be healthy for you and everyone else. See you later!

Essie sighed in relief and went back to reading updates about the situation, more so in her home country since there are more people diagnosed with the virus as each hour passed.

\\\

As much as she wanted to pick up her boyfriend and her other roommate Mark from the airport, the two guys told her to just stay at home for her own safety.

Please stay at home instead, Essie noona, Mark said in their group chat, we don’t want you to get sick. We’ll be there in a few hours, so please don’t worry too much.

But Marky! I am concerned as hell, Essie pouted as she typed her response, this situation’s making me go crazy. I really hope that you guys are really okay.

We are okay, baby, Johnny piped in, so please, be a good girl and wait for us. We have some stuff for you too. We’ll be there before you know it.

The girl cried at his answer, hysteria overpowering her.

\\\

Despite warnings to avoid close contact with anyone for fear of the virus from spreading, Essie couldn’t help but tackle her lover once he was on their doorway.

“Baby,” Johnny’s voice was muffled through her curly locks, “it’s okay…” One of his hands rubbed circles at her back to calm her down.

“But I’m so worried!” She cried, her tears soaking the collar of his shirt. She hugged him some more until Mark, who was behind his hyung, cleared his throat.

“Not to ruin your moment but uh, can I come inside too?” The younger guy said, smiling sheepishly at his noona. Essie nodded and moved her and her boyfriend aside so he could enter with his luggage.

“Baby, you can let go now,” Johnny whispered, pecking her on the forehead. “No, I don’t want to,” she whined, nuzzling her face on his chest.

It took a couple of minutes for her to let go and return to the couch. The guys took their belongings in their respective rooms before convening at the living room and talk to their agitated roommate.

When they did, it was Mark’s turn to be hugged. Essie cradled him for a bit, which he was hesitant at first. But when he felt a surge of warmth coming from both of their bodies, he realized that this hug was one of genuine concern than anything else. He buried his head on the crook of her neck and pecked it quickly (hoping that Johnny didn’t see it).

Once they let go of each other, he sat on the bean bag across the couch while Johnny settled on to his girlfriend’s right side. “Sorry guys, the news of this virus is making me go crazy,” she sniffed, taking out her handkerchief from her pocket to wipe her tears. “I’m just concerned, that’s all. I hope you guys won’t get sick or anything.”

“We could say the same to you, baby,” her boyfriend replied, moving closer to her. “None of us want to get sick at a time like this. We won’t be able to work if we do,” he now held her hand and squeezed it gently.

“I agree,” Mark said, giving them a thumbs-up. “We have to be strong and overcome this.”

“So have you guys eaten anything? Are you even hungry? Do you want anything in particular?” Essie asked, her eyes flitting from one guy to another.

“I’m craving for soup,” the younger guy said while he rubbed his palms. “Same here,” Johnny said.

“Okay, I’ll make you guys some.” She stood up and went to the kitchen to make a cream of mushroom soup from scratch. “Please take a rest while I cook. I’ll call you guys when it’s ready,” she added before both of them briefly hugged her while she chopping vegetables.

“Thank you, baby,” Johnny said softly, kissing her forehead. “I appreciate what you’re doing for us. You know what to do if you hear me snoring, okay?” The couple shared a quick moment of laughter before pecking each other on the lips. “Yes love, I know what to do. But please, have some rest first. You must be tired still.”

He nodded before silently retreating to their room to take a nap. She watched his figure disappear into their shared bedroom and smiled when he didn’t completely close the door. Since she was satisfied that he didn’t forget their protocol, she went back to her cooking.

Essie felt better that her boys weren’t sick but hoped that they would love the soup she’s cooking for the first time in her life. There’s such a thing as beginner’s luck, right?

–––

FIN

Quarantine Series (Part III)

Remember their Relay V Lives last April? Yes, those have inspired me to write the next two installments of this series. 

For this one, the GIF below says it all. Isn’t it exciting? I got it from Tumblr too but I can’t seem to find its source, so please let me know who this belongs to. Thank you!

Mahal ko kayong lahat! :)

–––

Summary: I already said what you needed to know about this piece above, so I would just like to add that Johnny’s outfit here is inspired by this photo of my first love Adam Driver. Dang, I really have a thing for big, tall men! 

POV: 2nd person

Word count: 1,200+ words

–––

“Get up, loser! We’re going to exercise!”

Johnny Suh screeched, banging open your door to report of this so-called mandatory activity. “Why are we going to exercise?” You whined, burying yourself deeper into the comforter. “No buts, ma’am! We’ve got to shake that ass to get that toned bod!” Your housemate said, removing the blanket that covered your body and twirling you to look at him. But before you could even complain that you didn’t want to, your eyes widened at his outfit.

“What the hell are you wearing?” You shrieked, absorbing Johnny’s chosen workout attire of a bandanna, skimpy tank top (with ‘Let’s Get Physical’ printed on it in silver glitter), and a pair of neon booty shorts. “The weather’s hot, baby. And maybe I want to show off the fruits of my labor so you and Mark will be motivated to work out even more,” he said, now showing off his rainbow-striped tube socks and retro sneakers.

“You look as if you stepped out of a cheesy 80s aerobic video, but whatever,” you grumbled, finally getting up from the bed. “Can you give me five minutes to change?” He responded with a thumbs-up before he screamed again in the hallway. “I’ll let you do ten push-ups if you don’t comply with that time!” You could only roll your eyes at his words before you search your closet for a pair of jogging pants.

\\\

Four minutes later – for fear of doing something you didn’t even know how to do properly – you emerged from your room and saw that Johnny had already set up the living room with mats, kettlebells, and weights.

“Wow, you’re early,” your instructor said, eyeing you from head to toe. “For a beginner, you sure dress well,” he gave you another thumbs-up, which you replied by flipping the bird on him. “Mark Lee! Where the heck are you?” His booming voice made the younger guy come out, who wore all black for his workout attire. “I see you’re in black, Mr. Lee. Maybe we’re going to mourn the loss of your excess fat after this,” Johnny snickered, earning giggles from you and your fellow attendee. “Now, let's get it!”

\\\

Although Mark was fitter than you, he was showing signs of fatigue from the routine that your instructor demonstrated. You can say the same for yourself, but you didn’t want anyone of them to see how exhausted you are. However, Johnny was still in high spirits by teaching you guys how to do exercises with the kettlebell and even pumped up the music. To be honest, you didn’t want to take his workout seriously because his playlist was all over the place – aside from the aforementioned cheesy 80s aerobics music, he also had promiscuous rap songs and even techno headbangers from the late 90s. As much as you wanted to laugh at how the playlist shifted from Vibez to Crazy Frog, Johnny berated you when he caught you not following instructions.

“Miss Park, please! If I catch you not following again, I’ll make you do 10 more,” he hissed while moving the kettlebell up and down.

“Can we get a break, please,” Mark groaned, looking paler than usual. “We’ve been at it for 20 minutes, hyung. Please?”

When the brown-haired guy dropped the kettlebell on the mat, you and Mark rushed to the kitchen to get some drinks.

“Don’t drink anything that isn’t water or any sports drink! We’re not yet done!”

\\\

Johnny’s exercise routine took 45 minutes, and it ended with you and Mark lying on your respective mats in pain. “Am I that out of shape?” He huffed, looking up at the ceiling. “Nonsense, you’re fitter than I,” you replied, your breath still catching up with your exercise. “Look at me, I might die anytime soon.”

“That’s even more nonsense!” Your instructor sat beside you with a huge smile on his face. “You did great, baby! I never thought you were that flexible,” he handed you a bottle of Pocari Sweat, which you accepted wordlessly.

“How about me, hyung?” Mark’s question was answered when Johnny threw another bottle of the sports drink at him.

“This was really fun! Maybe we should do it twice a week. We don’t have much to do during this quarantine anyway.” He was ecstatic at how he made you and Mark tired from exercise that his eyes were practically glowing.

“Who says we don’t have much to do? I can list a lot of things I can do during this quarantine that doesn’t involve exercise,” you grumbled, sitting up so you can now drink your Pocari Sweat.

“You and your sedentary activities,” Johnny scoffed. “Why don’t you and Doyoung make a club? You two are practically holed up in your bedrooms anyway.”

“There’s a certain joy of staying inside, Mr. Suh. For someone who isn’t an extrovert like you, you wouldn’t understand.” You placed the bottle on the floor with a thud, shaking Mark a bit.

“Hey, noona. Calm down,” he whispered, scooting closer to you. “And please, don’t fight. If there’s one thing I don’t want all of us to do, it’s that.”

You stared at Johnny, who returned the gesture. You had a stare-off that lasted for fifteen seconds before you heard Mark stand up and go back to his bedroom, mumbling something along the lines of ‘never-ending sexual tension’ and ‘dense as fuck’.

“But seriously, Essie. Exercise is good for everyone. I don’t need to remind you that, right?” You couldn’t look at the guy beside you, who talked with such a soft and loving voice. You could only nod in response and looked at your lap. “I’m going to make this a regular thing, and of course, you and Mark could also hold activities of your own that all of us can do.”

“I’m guessing Mark will make us perform a song together, considering all of us play instruments,” you chuckled, remembering the times that he gathered everyone in the living room so each one can perform a song of their liking.

“I think so too,” you heard Johnny move closer to you, “and I wonder what’ll be yours?” When you looked up, he linked an arm around your waist and pulled you closer to him. “Maybe eat,” you said matter-of-factly, making him laugh. You felt his abs as he did so, and you tried to move away, so you don’t completely become a flustered mess. He didn’t let you and tightened his hold.

“It’s all balanced then,” he kissed the top of your head before letting you go. “Our next session will be two days from now, so talk to Mark which one of you is in charge of tomorrow’s activity.” He helped you stand up, and in return, you helped him clean up today’s set-up. “I think I want to go first, I want us to eat something I haven’t eaten in ages…” you mumbled after packing away the last of gym equipment into its respective cabinet.

“Oh, is that so? But still, talk to Marky.” Johnny jerked his thumb toward the younger guy’s bedroom. “Yeah, I know. But thanks though for today.” You grinned, giving him two thumbs-up. “And thank you as well, my grumpy baby,” he messed your hair with his hands, “I’m looking forward to tomorrow’s feast.”

“Same here,” you laughed, now dashing toward Mark’s room. “If you’ll excuse me, I have to talk to Mr. Lee here.”

–––

FIN

Quarantine Series (Part IV)

Although this is the last one I’ve written for this series so far, that doesn’t mean it’s the end. I might write more if time allows and inspiration hits. 

Like with the previous installment, here’s a GIF (credits to this post from @jeongjaehyuns​) to let you know what this is going to be all about. You know your girl loves her North America-based boys! 

Mahal ko kayong lahat! :) 

–––

Summary: Johnny and Mark’s indoor camping V Live has got to be one of my favorite videos of them of all time. I think I watched it twice or thrice. Maybe I should watch it again. Anyway, enjoy this piece inspired by that cute and hilarious video. 

POV: 2nd person

Word count: 1,000+ words

–––

Mark decided to set up a tent in the middle of the living room as one of your activities during this quarantine period. He also got Johnny’s foldable table, which he used to place some snacks. A wicker basket was nearby, hopefully containing more snacks and some drinks. There were also fairy lights strung around the tent to give it a cozy feel. In short, Mark did a great job of making a cute set-up.

“Nice work, Mark,” the elder guy remarked, eyeing the tent’s interiors. There were a lot of pillows inside along with three blankets, meaning each one of you won’t get cold and fight over one piece of fabric. “So, what are we going to do here?”

“Yeah, what’s the concept for today’s session?” You piped in, pushing Johnny gently so you could crawl inside the tent. He grunted at your action but let it slide when he saw how ecstatic you looked once you settled comfortably inside.

“Well…I don’t know. We could just chill and stuff?” The younger guy replied, scratching the back of his head. “Wait. I think I have some Legos…” He returned to his room to retrieve said toys.

“What are we, five?” You grumbled, looking at Johnny who seemed pleased with the idea. “Seriously, Youngho?”

“Hey! I bet you didn’t get to do them when you were young,” he scoffed, running a hand through his caramel locks. “You missed out a chunk of your childhood if you didn’t.”

“Oh yes, right, just like missing out on reading the Harry Potter series,” you muttered, looking at Mark return to the tent with boxes of Legos for you to create.

“This is all I have, and look! I have three sets for us to work on. Perfect! Now each of us will work on something,” he shook the boxes before handing one of each to you and your other housemate.

It took you an hour to finish yours, while the guys finished earlier. “This just proves that I really didn’t get to play with Legos when I was young,” you murmured, figuring out where to put the last block on the piece you were making. “Hey, let me help with you that…” Mark offered, which you accepted since it has been over two minutes that you’ve been struggling.

As he examined the piece you were working on, you spied Johnny holding in his laughter. You raised an eyebrow at him, and he responded by letting out his trademark cheeky laugh. “What’s so funny, John?” You put both hands on your hips and glared at him with all the annoyance you could muster.

“Oh baby, it’s just you’re so funny,” he said in between laughter, “your sisters were right. You are effortlessly funny.”

You tackled him on his side of the tent, and all of your Lego sculptures tumbled to the ground as Johnny accidentally kicked the bed table that all of them were on.

“Johnny hyung!” Mark whined, eyeing the mess he made. “Blame Essie! She made me do it!” He pointed at the girl who was playfully punching his forearms. “You’re such a bully sometimes!” She complained, punching his sides this time.

“Essie noona! I expected better from you,” the younger guy commented, now packing up all the Legos that were scattered on the floor. “But he’s laughing at me for no reason at all, Mark! How can I not get pissed off with that?” You pointed an accusatory finger toward the taller guy, who has now composed himself and looked at both of them seriously.

“Okay, Essie. Sorry about that,” Johnny said as monotonously as he could, “And Mark, now that our Legos have all collapsed, what do you suggest we do next?” His tone changed to a cheerful (yet sarcastic) one when he faced his hoobae.

“Do you want some drinks?” Mark suggested, who was standing outside the tent with the three boxes of Lego sets on his arms.

“Alcoholic or not?” Johnny pinched your side after asking the question. “Essie, don’t you have any concept of drinking alcohol at certain periods?” He hissed, pinching you again.

Although his pinches hurt, you ignored it and beamed sweetly at the person you were talking to. “Uh, I was thinking of making us hot chocolate,” he said.

“Sounds good to me!” You gave him a thumbs-up, which the guy beside you mirrored as well. “Then, hot chocolate it is,” Mark disappeared into his bedroom first before he went to the kitchen to prepare probably some Swiss Miss.

“Isn’t he such a great host?” You said, eyeing the younger guy’s movements from inside the tent. “Yeah, he is. A good kid too,” Johnny replied, grabbing one of the pillows first before lying down.

“Now I feel pressured on what to do when it’s my turn,” you looked at the guy beside you, who patted the space beside him. “Lie down with me,” he whispered, and you complied immediately.

“Don’t sweat it. Look at us, just hanging out inside a tent at the living room since we can’t go camping outside,” he shifted his position so you’ll have more space, “and after having some snacks, I think we’re just going to do whatever, you know?”

“It’s been a while since we bonded like this too…” you tilted your head to look at Johnny again, who surprised you by kissing your forehead. “I guess so? We haven’t had heart-to-heart talks. You two might have since you were together for the past few weeks, but the three of us? It’s been way too long.”

“I agree with that,” Mark’s booming voice startled you and Johnny. “Hey, here are your hot chocolates, which pair perfectly well with these tasty waffle biscuits,” he took out a huge red packet from the basket and placed it on the table. “Bon appetit, guys.”

After your simple snack, your host decided to just spend the rest of the day catching up with everyone. Mark was often out due to his projects, and whenever he returned from them, he was often sleeping and rarely got to talk to anyone of you. If he did, your conversations barely lasted five minutes before he had to head out or sleep.  

Although unfortunately, there’s a global pandemic right now, it was time for the overworked young man to catch up with rest and know what’s up with his beloved housemates whom he loved so dearly.

–––

FIN

Tripping

I don’t know what’s up with the Tumblr app, but the whole content of this post got deleted when I posted it. Hence, I deleted it, and I’m starting all over again. I’m actually pissed about it if I’m being honest.

We’re going way back to my first writings, so you might be reading some of my Y/N stories in a few weeks. 

Here’s a piece that will put a wrench into Johnny, Essie, and Mark’s relationship. We’re getting somewhere, aren’t we? Before you get annoyed with me, enjoy a cute Johnny and Mark GIF first!

Mahal ko kayong lahat! :) 

–––

Summary: This story takes place before Johnny and Essie got together, and she hasn’t moved into his (and Mark’s) place yet. Read on to know how a simple trip to a restaurant become a tense situation. Oh, how I love to make tension so I could complicate the timeline! 

POV: 2nd person

Word count: 935 words

Warning: Italics are for thoughts, and italic and bold are for lyrics. I have also embedded the music video of the song mentioned below for your listening pleasure. 

–––

You didn’t need to go to karaoke when you’re out with Johnny and Mark. The three of you always sang inside the car without any care for the world.

Since Mark was back from his trip abroad, it was time that the three of you catch up on life. The Korean-Canadian was Johnny’s housemate, and boy, was your best friend over the moon that his ‘younger bro’ was back.

You decided to eat at this Spanish restaurant that just opened, which already has rave reviews online. Since Johnny’s always game to try new restaurants and Mark was pretty much a guy you can easily tag along with, you orchestrated this trip before lunchtime. You didn’t want to fall in line, especially with these ‘grumpy old men’ you are bringing along.

Johnny was the designated driver, and as always, he assigned you the tunes for this excursion. Mark didn’t have any role since he was the guest of honor, so he hogged the back seat to himself.

Everything was going smoothly, with one of you singing or humming along to your playlist. When Yellowcard’s ‘Ocean Avenue’ played, Mark immediately sat up and began singing.

Sometimes, it’s best not to judge a person by what he listens to. You were sure that Mark only listens to hip-hop and rhythm-and-blues, but he surprised you once again by jamming to one of your pop-rock hits back in the day.

Johnny joined in as well, even headbanging a bit as he drove. Before you knew it, all of you were singing the chorus.

“If I can find you now, things would get better…we could leave this town and run forever…”

You and Johnny shared a knowing look since this was your jam during your middle school days. When you looked at Mark, you saw that he was so into the song. He was doing the air guitar, for Christ’s sake!

You couldn’t help but laugh and reached him. He took your hand with his and squeezed it, still singing his heart out.

Together, you sang the bridge part. “I remember the look in your eyes when I told you that this was goodbye…”

The two of you exchanged lines this time, realizing later on that the lyrics fit well with your scenario.

“You were beggin’ me not tonight, not here, not now,” you sang, which Mark replied with, “We're looking up at the same night sky, and keep pretendin' the sun will not rise…”

Then, together again: “We'll be together for one more night, somewhere, somehow…”

Your hands didn’t leave each other, and you sang the lines while looking at each other. Never mind that your position was uncomfortable; you were too focused on singing with Mark.

You didn’t notice that Johnny wasn’t singing along anymore or the fact that his knuckles were almost white from gripping the steering wheel.

When the chorus came again, that was the time you pulled away. You and Mark finished singing along still with the same energy. You peeked at your back and saw that he was imitating his Henry hyung by doing an air violin impression. You laughed again, covering your mouth with the hand that he held. It still felt warm.

You remembered the time that he dropped by your apartment a few months ago, singing your melancholic favorites. You shared a similar moment, hands touching and staring into each other. Although a few months have passed, you still don’t know how to describe your feelings for him.

After all, you were conflicted. You also love the man who’s willing to drive you anywhere and feed you whenever you’re hungry. He was beside you, and he was oddly silent as the next song played.

“Hey, Johnny. Are you okay?” You couldn’t help but ask despite knowing that he didn’t look like it.

“Yeah, I’m fine,” he grumbled, eyes focused on the road ahead. This was the time you noticed his grip on the steering wheel, and you gently touched his shoulder. “No, you aren’t,” you said softly.

He took a deep breath first before he relaxed. One of his hands went limp beside him, which you took immediately. He looked at you funny as he drove with one hand.

“I’m not going to let this go until you are okay,” you pouted, squeezing the hand in your care.

He sighed in response and continued to drive in silence. Why could he be suddenly not okay?

When you took a glance at Mark at the back, he was absentmindedly scrolling through his phone and lip-syncing to the song playing.

You felt Johnny’s grip on your hand tighten, and that’s when it hit you. Is he jealous because I’m getting touchy with Mark?

Your eyes widened in realization, and you felt more confused about your situation.

Mark, who was seven years your junior, admitted that he has feelings for you.

You, on the other hand, were starting to fall in love with Johnny.

Although there were instances that your crushes on Taemin and Kai will resurface, it could never compare to your love for Youngho.

You didn’t want to lead on two men. You only want to end up with one.

You looked at Johnny again, who tried his best to look unaffected. You squeezed his hand and kissed it.

You are sure of who your feelings are for now.

Good thing the stoplight was on red or else he might’ve pulled the brakes sooner. He didn’t expect your action, and his cheeks and ears were red.

You gave him a small smile before letting go of his hand. The stoplight turned green now.

–––

FIN

P.S. I got the title because I had 'Welcome to My Playground' playing in my head. And of course, that word came from Johnny's lines in the song.

Cruel Game

Shaking things up with this brain fart because too much lovey-dovey can get on your nerves. Well, sometimes. Or is it just me? 

Anyway, I just want to share that I love any Jaehyun and Mark interactions. I like how chill both are, and let’s be honest – they give off frat boy vibes. 

I love this GIF of them – I feel the love, man! GIF is from this link.

Mahal ko kayong lahat! :) 

–––

Summary: Sharing that I love Jaehyun and Mark’s friendship is a clue to what you’ll be reading today, as the guys are fueled by their jealousy to get Essie’s heart. Say what?! Yes, I wrote this with the tensest timeline in mind, meaning it’s before Johnny and Essie got together and are getting real touchy with each other. 

POV: 3rd person 

Word count: 1,200 + words 

Warning: Italics are for thoughts and foreign terms. 

–––

Jaehyun knew he lost when he saw the look Essie and Johnny shared during one of their hangouts.

The grey-haired heartthrob, along with Taeyong and Ten, decided to visit their friends Mark, Johnny, and Essie (who also happen to be housemates). It has been a while since Mark and Taeyong were in their respective apartments due to their hectic schedules, and it has been ages since all of them hung out with Ten.

He, Taeyong, and Johnny cooked while Ten, Mark, and Essie provided entertainment through singing with their respective instruments or dancing. The three men prepared a mix of both Korean and Japanese food, which delighted the only girl in the house. “It’s as if you know what I’m craving for!” She gushed, clapping her hands together in glee.

“Of course, I know what you like,” Jaehyun commented confidently with a wink, making her blush. His action was not lost on Johnny, who looked as if he could burn a hole on the back of his friend’s head. “Thank you, Jay!” Essie chirped before she nudged Ten to help her in setting the table.

Once that was set, everyone sat down and enjoyed their dinner. It was during this part of the evening that Jaehyun knew that Essie has made up her mind on whom she likes the most. It was not lost on him that he was one of the people who first knew of her crush on Johnny and other guys in their huge social circle. If he remembered correctly, the only ones from the group she told of were him and Ten.

He caught Johnny tapping her shoulder lightly to whisper something in her ear. He noticed the way she leaned immediately to his touch and giggled at the few words he said. They shared a look before they went back to eating.

If he was asked to describe the look they gave each other, it was one of sweet longing and understanding. In short, he was jealous that he wasn’t the one who received it.

Jaehyun tightened the grip on his utensils as he continued eating dinner, feeling his face heat up in anger. “Hey, hyung. You okay?” Mark asked, who was seated to his left. He nodded in response and gave a goofy smile to reassure him.

“But your ear is, like, all red,” Ten commented before eating a whole sushi. He touched his ear and felt that he was going to get burned with how hot it was. “Oh, maybe it must be the weather? Or the room’s a bit too warm,” he mumbled before focusing on his plate again.

“Did you say it’s too hot, Jay? I can adjust the temperature of the AC,” Essie offered, now standing up to go to where she placed the remote of the air conditioner. “Yeah, thanks dear,” he said softly, looking at her figure disappear into the living room.

“Hey, that’s not where the remote for the AC is, you dummy! It’s over here,” Johnny said, following the girl into the room she went to. The sight of his friend going to where his crush was made him massage his temples in silence, which then led him to lose his appetite.

“I don’t think you’re okay, hyung,” Mark whispered, moving his chair closer to the table. The sound it made turned heads, and all of them looked at the two guys. “What?” Jaehyun was irritated at the looks he got from Taeyong and Ten.

“Yeah, you don’t seem well, Yoon Oh. Do you need a break?” Taeyong said carefully since he didn’t want to irk his housemate. After all, they were going home the same way in the same car.

“I think so. I’ll just be outside,” Jaehyun muttered before going outside to the porch. Mark excused himself shortly afterward and went to where he was as well.

The two men observed the night scenery in silence – well, they could still hear the sound of cicadas chirping and clicking and their heavy breathing.

“What brings you here, Mark?” He started, folding his arms over his chest.

“I think I know what set you off,” the younger guy replied, moving closer to him.

“Oh, you think? Then humor me. Tell me what that is,” his tone was sarcastic, which Mark picked up and returned in his response.

“Don’t think you’re the only one who’s annoyed with Johnny and Essie making goo-goo eyes at each other.”

They looked at each other for a moment and burst into laughter afterward. “Hey, why are you annoyed with them? What did they do to you? Sucks that you have to endure that, eh?” Jaehyun took a seat on the bench, and Mark followed suit. “It’s not that they did anything to me, but I think…I like Essie noona more than, you know, as a sister figure.” The way his voice softened at the end made the older guy’s heart ache.

“Damn, Mark. I didn’t know you felt that way. I guess…you can say the same thing about me too,” he brushed his hair away from his face and looked out into the dark horizon again. “It’s not usual for me to be jealous, especially towards one of my best friends. But I can’t help it. I like Essie too, but I think she has made her decision on who she likes the most.”

“Huh? What does that mean?” Mark moved closer to his hyung, his eyes shining in anticipation with his next words.

Oh crap, this is bad. I shouldn’t have phrased it that way…he thought, running another hand through his hair.

“Let’s just say that Essie likes a lot of guys, and among them all, Johnny is the one she likes the best. And unfortunately, none of us made that list. Isn’t that sad?”

It took a moment for Mark to reply. “Maybe she wouldn’t tell us that if she liked us that way, you know? But maybe she likes one of us too, or heck, even just one of us aside from Johnny hyung. But who are we to compete with him?” He peeked inside and saw that he and Essie were arguing on the dinner table.

“Hey, be confident with yourself, Mark Lee. Suh Youngho isn’t the only handsome and talented guy in the room,” Jaehyun patted his friend’s back before sneaking a look on the commotion inside. He saw that Essie looked pissed, and Johnny was rolling his eyes at her.

“But they look like a fucking married couple already,” Mark mumbled, his eyes also focused on the two. “I think they’re meant for each other.”

“Don’t lose hope. Why don’t you try?” Both men returned to looking at the night sky. “You know, talking with you made me not give up on pursuing Essie. I felt that I have already lost. That sickeningly sweet look she and Youngho had earlier broke me, man. I swear to you,” the older guy admitted, his eyes now focused on his shoes.

“But that means we’ll be competing for her then,” the black-haired guy glanced at Jaehyun, who was now looking at him. “I still want to try, you know. Even if I know deep inside she might not accept my love.”

“That’s the spirit, I guess?” Jaehyun chuckled, slinging an arm around Mark’s shoulder. “May the best man win then.”

“Good luck to us, hyung. I mean it.”

–––

FIN

P.S. The title came from ‘Sit Down’ as it suddenly played in my head the moment I saved the initial draft. Of course, how can I forget Jaehyun’s lines and his competitive spirit? 

You're Such an Ass

Sometimes, you've got to let out your brain farts.

The GIF below should hint at what this is going to be. Oh yeah, baby - it's going to be about Mark Lee!

Expect butt puns and Johnny being the big adorable shit that he is.

I think this is the most crack thing I've written for the fandom so far, so I hope you enjoy my humor.

Mahal ko kayong lahat! :)

POV: 2nd person

Word count: 1,640 words

Additional notes: I think I've already noted what you needed to know, so I hope you enjoy this silly piece.

---

“You know what, love? I’m taking back what I said about you.”

Johnny was surprised by your words that he almost dropped his phone on the floor. You were standing beside him while he was scrolling through his phone and drinking coffee on the dining table.

“What do you mean by that, baby?” You pointed at Mark, who was crouched in front of the fridge, rummaging for something to eat. The younger guy has been in the same position for some time now, and his butt was sticking out.

You have been living with him and your boyfriend for over a year already, but this is the first time you noticed his backside. You had a thing for guys that had great asses, and you couldn’t believe that Mark Lee, the bashful boy-next-door type, has a badonkadonk.

“Ah, that,” Johnny groaned, placing his phone on the table. “Well, I can’t beat that. He has the plumpest ass out of all of us. But I still have a great one, right?” He pulled you closer to him, a cheesy grin on his face.

“Yeah, you do, but…look at that!” You loudly whispered, your eyes widening at how Mark even stuck his butt out more as he continued to rummage the vegetable compartment.

“My anaconda don’t,” Johnny started singing, making you cackle. “My anaconda don’t want none unless you got buns, hun!” you continued, now bursting into boisterous laughter.

“Oh my gosh, look at his butt,” your boyfriend repeatedly said in his best valley girl accent, which made you lose it.

“Hey, what’s so funny?” Mark has now stood up with an apple in his hand, an eyebrow raised at you. You looked like a mess on the floor, clutching at your stomach.

“Essie noticed your famous feature just now,” Johnny deadpanned, now going back to his phone and coffee. The younger guy looked at his behind, which had a bit of a wedgie from crouching for too long. He quickly fixed his sweatpants before stalking off to the couch to eat his breakfast.

“I’m sorry, Marky! I only noticed that you have a great ass,” You have now composed herself and approached him to offer more apologies. But before you could even reach the sofa, he stormed off to his room.

You looked at Johnny in shock, your mouth agape at what just happened.

“Uh oh, he didn’t take that well,” your partner commented, now standing beside you. “He gets conscious about that, especially as it came from you.”

“What do you mean by that?”

“Well, for starters, you’re a girl. Have you forgotten about that?” Johnny chuckled, plopping on the sofa to continue browsing on his phone.

You rolled your eyes at his comment. “Duh, I haven’t! Well, this is awkward. But I couldn’t help it, love! They’re like peaches ripe for the picking!”

“You better apologize to him, baby. And try not to tease him about if you can, okay?”

\\\

Although Mark forgave you immediately for your silly antics about his butt, you didn’t keep your promise to Johnny by teasing him about it still. Not that your boyfriend could even keep his word when it comes to teasing the younger guy though. This is Johnny Suh we’re talking about. Together, you were inseparable and annoying to the highest level.

You played butt-related songs whenever Mark passed by, and Johnny would join in the teasing by twerking with you and laughing about it afterward.

But when you played “Bubble Butt,” Mark lost it and didn’t go home. Two days later, you found out from Haechan that he was staying at their place for the meantime.

“Noona, we know how he’s extremely blessed in that department, but you don’t have to remind him about that every day,” he sounded like he was trying his best not to laugh over your video call, but you knew he was amused at the situation.

“I’m sorry, Haechannie! But you know how Johnny and I get when we’re in a teasing mood, right?”

“Yeah, both of you are ruthless! You just won’t stop! I believe Mark was able to list some of the songs you played even if he was pissed,” Haechan couldn’t contain his laughter and had to step out of the room he was in to let it all out.

The three of you shared laughter for a moment before Haechan cleared his throat and went back to your conversation. “I can’t believe you had the nerve to sing ‘Bootylicious’ to him! And ‘My Humps’! You two are evil!”

You and Johnny couldn’t help but sing and dance a mash-up of the two songs, which made your recipient cover his reddened face from laughing too much.

“I bet you would join us if you were here though,” Johnny said, and the maknae hummed in approval. “But Mark had it when we played ‘Bubble Butt’ though.”

Haechan burst into laughter again, and you heard him sniffing. You knew what that meant – he became teary-eyed at how hilarious this was. But he also had to serve as the mediator since Mark is one of your housemates, and you want him to return to your home eventually.

“Anyway, you have to stop that. I know it’s funny, and I would’ve joined you in teasing him about this, but he’s…hurt about this.”

“Oh, Haechannie! You wanted to say butt hurt so bad!” You screeched, making all of you erupt into laughter again.

“Baby, stop it! Don't be such an ass!” Johnny playfully slapped your shoulder and grabbed the phone from you. “Tell Mark Lee we’re really sorry, and we would leave this all…behind,” you and Haechan snorted, “and we promise not to tease him anymore about this.”

“Okay, that’s noted. I’ll relay that to him, but don’t expect that he’ll go home there immediately. Since we’re busy with projects together, I think he’ll be back there in a week or two,” Haechan said, “and please, I hope you’ll be over teasing Mark about his ass by then.”

“Will you get over that, baby?” Johnny asked, sassily putting hands on his hips and raising an eyebrow at you.

“I think I will,” you said with conviction before your call ended. “I think I’ll get over Mark Lee’s cute and juicy butt,” you said to yourself softly this time when you were left alone with your thoughts.

\\\

Haechan was right – Mark indeed went home two weeks after their project.

The apartment the three of you shared was quiet when he returned, and he hoped that you and Johnny would have gotten over teasing his butt.

He knew that he’s already the butt of jokes in your circle of friends, but Haechan was teasing him lately with butt puns then laughing in a corner when he wasn’t looking. Renjun reported that to him when they went out to dinner the other night, and he felt resigned that his housemates had influenced him as well.

Sometimes, he thought his stomach-related problems contributed to how his ass has become so rotund. Does shitting contribute to this? He did check Google but found articles on anal sex and painful bowel movements instead. He’ll have to deep dive into the Internet some other time.

When he laid his bag on the sofa, it was coincidental that you also opened the door to your room. You were surprised to see him back, thinking that he would sulk for a couple more weeks before coming home.

“Hi Marky, welcome home,” you said softly, your hand still on the doorknob. “Have you just arrived?” He nodded, and you approached him cautiously. When he didn’t move from his spot, you enveloped him in a hug.

“I’m so sorry, my Marky baby. I mean it,” you cooed, ruffling his hair, “And I missed you.”

“I missed you too, noona,” he whispered, finally hugging you back. “And Johnny hyung too.”

You laughed at that and continued to ruffle his hair some more. He doesn’t like it when others do that to him, but he makes an exception for you. Maybe he still has some feelings for you.

But when you got tired of playing with his hair, your arms snaked around his waist. Since you’re quite the touchy person, your hands slid further to the top of his butt. “May I?” You mouthed, eyes gleaming at the prospect of touching your recent obsession.

Mark let out a deep sigh before nodding in approval. You tried not to squeal as your hands cupped his butt cheeks gently.

“Oh my, they’re soft,” you murmured, squeezing them this time. Mark was burning at your touch, his face as red as the insides of the watermelon he loved so much.

“What’s this I’m seeing?” Johnny gasped at the sight of you playing with Mark’s ass. “Baby, did you ask permission?”

You gave a thumbs-up with one hand before it went back to playing with the younger guy’s backside.

“I missed him, Johnny boo! Didn’t you miss him too?” You have let go of Mark, who was now sitting on the sofa covering his flushed face. He was embarrassed that you were playing with his butt, and his hyung had to see that. He wasn’t sure if Johnny recorded that because if he did, he has new blackmail material.

“Hmmm, maybe not,” he teased. You stuck out your tongue at him, and he took it as an invitation to join you guys.

“Welcome back, bro,” he tapped Mark’s back before sitting beside him. You squeezed in between them and initiated conversation like all the teasing never happened.

The younger guy felt relieved that normalcy has been restored now, but he never knew with you and Johnny. As Haechan told him: “Your housemates are the worst when it comes to teasing, and it’s when you least expect it that they do.”

---

FIN

P.S. I won't link the songs I mentioned since I feel bad for teasing Mark about his bum. Well, sort of.