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oohfluffy · 1 year

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SY Ch. 5 | DKS

Group: EXO

Member: Do Kyungsoo

Theme: Angst | Fluff | Neighbor!AU

Word Count: 3,602

chapter 5

The wind caressed your bare face as you walked side by side with the person that made this cold weather warmer.

You nonchalantly glanced at his side profile, mouth slightly gaping as you breathed out. Kyungsoo's eyebrows were furrowed with his eyes focused in front as if on the lookout for something. His lower lip jutted out while he fumbled with his pockets, searching for more warmth in his jacket.

I didn't mess the night up, right? The timing…

You sighed as you remembered the call from earlier. You need to file a leave for a week to make sure everything's fine at home. You can't just go home for the weekend and leave for the city on the next day like a heartless child. Your younger sister might need more support and guidance than ever. The hospital bills and the documents…

What can you expect from your runaway father? He's probably everywhere but at your house and the hospital. You need to do everything just as usual.

"The food was delicious, hm?" Kyungsoo suddenly spoke, a wisp of cold smoke coming out from his mouth. You blinked your eyes as you saw him look back at you. "You know, I'm quite a good cook, but I can't ever cook like ahjussi does."

"Oh, you cook?" Your eyes widened in surprise, but you kind of expected it already. This man is perfect in many ways. "You brew coffee well, and you also cook well? Wah, this man…"

Kyungsoo laughed shyly, his voice slightly stuttering as he tried to wave you off.

"N-No, I just enjoy doing those things that's why they come out great. I wasn't really interested in cooking and brewing before, but my grandmother taught me to be a useful child in our house." He smiled while looking up at the night sky. The light posts lit the pathwalks well while some signages of stores blinked at you. It was a quiet neighborhood, but at the same time, it spoke so much to you.

Just like Kyungsoo, he's such a silent breeze that makes you want to breathe and dance along with his whispers. It makes you happy to be in his presence even if he's not within your sight all the time.

Whipped as fuck, Eunjoo.

"Not to brag as well, I know my way around my kitchen." You chuckled at what you just said, making Kyungsoo laugh with you. "My mother didn't really teach me how to do things, but… I kind of picked up a few ways from what she did. I'm more on the self-taught side."

"That's a lot more impressive!" Kyungsoo exclaimed with his eyes widening in amazement. You found yourself automatically smiling at the sight of his excited expression. His cheeks were more plump in your eyes as he praised your independence. "I messed around my grandma's kitchen a lot because I didn't listen properly to her guidance. It's amazing that you pulled off learning a lot by yourself."

Your heart swelled by the sudden compliment. It was just a small achievement for you, having been living alone for a while, but it felt like you've done something so great when Kyungsoo said that.

"I-It was hard at first," You breathed out with a smile, looking at the light post to escape the tension of Kyungsoo's stare. "I'm the eldest in the family, and I had to be independent as soon as my younger sister was born. My parents also weren't really that affectionate." You chuckled, your throat tightening a bit as you remembered your childhood.

It was silent, but you felt Kyungsoo's gaze on you that seemed to loudly comfort you. He didn't comment or say anything, but you felt the urge to say more to him.

"Maybe I've been a closed-off daughter to them, that's why they didn't…" You shook your head as you felt the tears on your eyes. You can see Kyungsoo's steps slowing down while you force yourself not to cry. "I-I'm sorry, this is so random. I'm getting emotional all of a sudden." You tried laughing it off, but he mumbled no.

"It's okay, Eunjoo-ssi." His voice was so inviting and welcoming that you wanted to let out everything already. Your lips trembled. You breathed out deeper before speaking again.

"My sister called earlier, and said that mom is in the hospital, had a conflict with my dad, who has never done anything right after he lost a lot of his investment years ago. You know what I felt the moment I heard her tell me the news?"

You gained the courage to look at him in the eyes, stopping on your tracks as you gripped on your coat tighter. He was already looking at you as if his eyes never left yours. His dark brown eyes were warmly gazing at your tear-filled ones. His mouth gaped, eyes widening a little.

You looked hurt. So hurt that he felt a kick on his heart.

"Pity. I pitied my sister." You pursed your lips as you clenched your hands. "It's like she was the younger me all over again. Is fate torturing me or something? That call totally reopened some of my hidden wounds." You ended your statement with a laugh, as if you weren't just talking about something deep and serious. "Then I felt angry. Then I felt sad. It's like everything's pouring out all at once." You looked up at him while biting your lip to avoid crying out.

You savored the moment that Kyungsoo was observing your whole expression. His eyes seemed focused on yours, but you knew he was all over your face, watching how your cheeks moved and how your lips trembled. It's as if he can see through you.

After a few seconds, you suddenly realized that you just dumped your personal problems onto someone you haven't even known for a long time. You wanted to smack yourself for being vulnerable at the wrong time. You cursed under your breath while blinking your tears away.

"Ah shit, I hate this." You mumbled, looking down at your feet. You kicked an invisible pebble with a frown, thinking that you turned off the guy you're so curious about by being a sad girl.

"What this?" Kyungsoo said with a serious look in his eyes. You immediately looked up at him and found him still staring.

"Oh." You found yourself lacking for words. "Ah…"

"I think you should start with ah, eh, ih, before you get to oh." He said with his lips slighting curving upwards. You blinked at him, dumbfounded with what he said. Kyungsoo sighed. "Am I that bad at making jokes? No reaction at all."

"N-No! My mind was just in the middle of restarting from all the things I have just said. I totally get the joke!" You instantly defended yourself while animatedly gesturing your hands over your head, making Kyungsoo laugh. It was pleasant to hear. "I'm just sorry for suddenly…saying those things. That must have made you feel uncomfort—"

"No, my ears are always open to what you say." He lightly tapped his ear while speaking. "It must have taken you so much courage to share your thoughts, Eunjoo-ssi. As long as you're comfortable sharing whatever's in your mind, I don't mind listening to you."

You stared at his sincere eyes, which were slightly turning into crescent moons while he smiled. Your worries were still there, but you felt lighter and more motivated to face them. Was it him? You crazily thought that he must have casted some positive spell on you.

Maybe he's a witch, or a fallen angel?

Either of those, there's no doubt that you like this guy and how he makes you feel.

"Bungeoppang." He said as his eyes went across the street, where a small stall was. There were only a few people around the stall, but you can smell the delicious and warm bread already from afar. His cheeks rounded up as he excitedly smiled while turning back to you. "Want some, Eunjoo-ssi?"

You smiled.

"Sure, Kyungsoo-ssi."

—

"Yes, I've finished most of the files you've given me." You adjusted your phone by your shoulder as you zipped your bag. You glanced at your opened laptop. "I sent everything to your email already. You can check them out and tell me if I missed anything."

"Alright. You took a leave for a week to go back home, are you sure you don't need a ride?" Wonho replied on the other side of the call. You sighed loudly as you can't even count how many times you've already heard him ask you. "Okay, okay, no need to scold this worried friend of yours. Have a safe trip, Eunjoo-ah."

"Thanks, Wonho-ah."

It was Friday, and you've already packed your clothes which are good for a week. You'll just be bringing a sports bag that is big enough for your clothes, and a separate tote bag for your hygiene necessities. It will be troublesome to bring a lot of things as you are only traveling by bus to Yangpyeong-gun, your first home.

"Should I bring my laptop with me?" You glared at your working laptop on the table, the source of all the stress you've been experiencing for a long time. "Better not. They don't need to bother me for a week, right? They'll manage." You shrugged while double checking your things.

As you took your bags out of the bedroom, you glanced at the clock hanging on top of the refrigerator. It was past 7 in the evening already, and you haven't cooked dinner yet. You placed down your bags on the sofa before taking out your phone.

"Let's order a take out then. I'm too tired to cook anything." You mumbled to yourself as you scrolled through the food delivery app. "Should we have some chicken and beer?" You chuckled to yourself, thinking how you will wake up early tomorrow if you drink your ass off.

If anyone saw you in this state, they wouldn't be able to guess that you're currently facing something so difficult. No one would know.

"Should I be crying? It hurts either way anyway." You pressed on the checkout button with a determined face. "I need strength to face them tomorrow too. This much chicken is needed!"

I'm already craving for it, there's no other choice!

"Food delivery!"

"Yes, just a second!" You stumbled as you stood up from the sofa. You counted the money again in your hand before unlocking your door. You smiled at the delivery man until you saw who it was. "Kyungsoo-ssi."

Your smile even became wider.

His eyes were already in crescent shapes as you met eyes with him. Of course, he wasn't surprised. He's been to your home before, not as a delivery man but as the plumber.

"Long time no see, Eunjoo-ssi." Kyungsoo joked as he waved the paper bag with your order. Seeing the chicken logo on the bag, you suddenly remembered how much chicken you've ordered this time.

Two whole chickens, Eunjoo.

You mentally face-palmed yourself in embarrassment, feeling your ears heating up while you avoided Kyungsoo's innocent gaze.

"Do you have guests over?" He tried to open up a topic, probably feeling your silence and awkwardness, but you groaned at his question.

"N-No, I'm just by myself. You know, going to drown myself with chickens and beers. It's a Friday." You dryly laughed as you took the paper bag from his grasp. You held out your hand with the payment while still looking everywhere but at his eyes. "It's the exact amount. Thank you—"

"You'll be going back home tomorrow, right? Yangpyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do?" Kyungsoo cut your pleasantries before you could even say goodbye. He was slightly blinking more as usual, his wide eyes darting all over your face as if trying to gain more confidence by observing your reaction. "You mentioned before we parted ways that you'll be taking the bus. There will be a lot of people going to the province as it's a weekend."

"Yeah, I know that. I'll be taking the earliest departure in the terminal."

"The earliest at the Sangbong Intercity Bus Terminal is at 4 am though?" His eyebrows furrowed as he looked into your eyes. You smiled. "It will still be dark then. Maybe 6 am will do? You'd arrive by at least past 7."

"It's better to arrive that early than have a lot of people on the same ride as you do, right? Don't worry, I've done this before. I'm not an amateur traveler." You tried chuckling it off but Kyungsoo still seemed not convinced. You felt the warmth on your fingers and you remembered that you still have freshly cooked chickens waiting to be devoured right on your hands. Your mouth moved on its own before you could even think about it. "Have you eaten dinner yet?"

With his eyes wide, his mouth parted a bit in surprise. You unconsciously blushed at the bold move.

"I-I didn't mean anything, it's just…" You automatically defended yourself, voice slightly getting higher. "You know there's two chickens here, right? I could use a hand."

You stared at each other for a few seconds, and you were feeling your cheeks wanting to burst already. Kyungsoo suddenly laughed, his voice filling your senses was a bliss to you. You laughed with him, a bit nervous but you felt like laughing. His laugh was contagious.

"I'd love to share those chickens with you, Eunjoo-ssi." Your eyes lit up. "But I need to turn in the payment. I still have more deliveries to do." He scratched the back of his head shyly. Your smile fell for a second, but before he could look back to you, you put it back up again. "The chicken smells amazing to be honest."

"A-Ah! I'm sorry, that's too inconsiderate of me. Right, you were in the middle of your shift." You bit your lip, trying to keep your spirits up and alive. "Next time then. Let's have beer and chicken when I get back."

Kyungsoo smiled. You met with his eyes, smiling back as if you weren't feeling disappointed just now.

"Right, let's do that." He mumbled softly, glancing at your slightly clenching hands under the paper bag. "I hope everything's fine at your home. Safe travels."

"Hmm, thanks."

"And don't stay up too late." Kyungsoo glanced at the beer within the paper bag, making you look at it as well. You chuckled while nodding.

As soon as you shut the door, you hugged the paper bag to your chest while silently screaming at yourself. You almost felt tears on the edges of your eyes as you remembered how obvious your advances were towards Kyungsoo. He must have noticed.

"Ahhhh, Nam Eunjoo, you crazy bitch." You cursed at yourself while stomping your foot. You stared at the peaking containers of chickens and the beer. "I'll gobble everything up! AAAAAHHH!"

It was a long night with your chickens and your beer.

"Ah shit." You groaned loudly as you heard your alarm go off. You barely opened your eyes while sliding the screen to turn off the alarm of your phone. You already missed your 6th alarm. "It's 5 am already?! What time did I sleep then? 12? Aish, I'd get on the 5:55 bus then."

Begrudgingly standing up, you quickly put the empty containers into the paper bag and the empty bottle of beer by the counter. You made sure that the sofa was intact and clean before running inside your room. You just washed up your face and did your short skin care routine, just enough to make your skin feel hydrated and protected. You sniffed your hair for a second before nodding at yourself.

"Not that bad, Eunjoo. Not that bad."

Changing out of your pajamas, you just grabbed your jeans, shirt, and a jacket. Slip-on rubber shoes were the most comfortable ones you could wear while traveling. You took a final look around your apartment, making sure there weren't any cords left on the outlets and that your valuables were not forgotten such as your passport and money etc. You brought out the trash you've accumulated for the week along with all your things that you'll be bringing.

"See you next week then." You mumbled at your door as you locked your apartment.

It was 5:45 am when you arrived at the terminal, and there were already a few people lining up and waiting for the bus to open. You bought your ticket easily and sat down on one of the seats at the waiting area. Last night, you already told Eunae that you'll be home before 7 am, and that you'll head straight to the house first as the visiting hour at the hospital starts at 9 am. She was home alone.

You felt angry at first because your father can't even be a decent father to your younger sister. But you were doubtful about what he could do to her if he stayed behind. You just felt relieved that your sister wasn't in the same space as him.

You sent money to your sister so she can at least buy her meals at home. She was thankful for that, and you felt it through your phone. It was the first time she said so many thank-you's in one day. You knew that she needed it; both the money and your messages of comfort.

Unnie, text me when you get on the bus. I'll make sure I'm awake by the time you get here.

You smiled at her last message last night. What is this feeling again? The feeling of being cared for or being remembered? When was the last time you've felt this while talking to your family? It seems so long ago.

"Passengers of Yangpyeong-gun bus 167 can now enter and proceed to their respective seats." The announcer said through the speakers, making you stand up and move to the direction where the gates were. You could see the bus number on top of the front glass of the vehicle.

"167." You mumbled as you saw the number, and lightly jogged over the bus.

As you stepped into the bus, you let out the breath that you didn't notice you've been trapping inside your lungs. The sky was a bit bright already. You're finally going home.

Kyungsoo-ssi, it's not dark anymore.

—

You weren't sleepy as the journey started.

The sceneries on the way were familiar, but not memorable enough to make you remember anything in particular. You felt more awake as if you managed to get a 7-hour sleep earlier. As you got closer to the village, you took in the sight of the dark greenish river and the few fisher boats sailing across it. You could already taste the freshness of the water and wind all at once.

If you were a bit more emotional, you would have bawled your eyes out already.

But you're coming home for your family. To be the only strength and support of your sister and mother. You can't be crying already just for seeing your hometown when you haven't even seen your family yet. You need to be strong.

You're here not only for yourself, Eunjoo. They need you.

The ride didn't last for more than an hour. The bus station was not that near to your home, but it was also not that far that you'd complain about it. You saw the public market as soon as you got off the bus. You often went there to buy groceries and all the things that your mother demanded before.

You took a deep breath.

"I'm really home after what, 5-6 years?" You chuckled, lips trembling at the sight. There were more stores and people around. You wouldn't have recognized the place if you didn't see the market and if the bus didn't drop you off here.

The walk to your house took a bit over 30 minutes as you walked slower to look around the village, what changed and what was different since you left. You didn't get lost, but you got confused a lot with all the new houses. There's a new park at the center of the village, which you instantly appreciated as it didn't feel as suffocating with all the constructions that happened surrounding it.

"Unnie? Eunjoo unnie!" You heard your sister's call from a distance. You squint your eyes as you watch the once little girl who kept frowning and calling you names before running towards you with tears in her eyes. You tried to face her with a huge smile on your face, but your lips curved downwards as your tears welled up your eyes.

Her embrace was not this warm before.

Your hands hesitated to wrap around her back as your mind cannot seem to understand what was happening.

Am I being welcomed warmly with open arms? Is this reality or another unreachable dream of mine?

"Unnie, w-welcome home." Eunae cried as she held onto your jacket, nuzzling onto your chest as you stood still. "I-I'm sorry we had to meet each other like this after years. I'm sorry!"

It's real. I can hear her loud and clear.

"Hm." You smiled as you felt her shoulders shaking, trying to stop her hiccups. Just like how you would when you didn't want to cry loudly at home. You wrapped your arms around your younger sister, feeling her relax at your acceptance.

If this was a dream then, I would like to stay asleep for a while. Even just for a while.

"I'm home, dongsaeng."

— ☘ —

A/N:

Hi! It took me quite a while to finish this chapter, but here it is.

For this one, I'm trying to reconnect Eunjoo with her past and her family. It would not be as smooth as butter though, so it will take time. You must be thinking that the progress is so slow, but well, just like the author 😂 That's part of the story.

Anyway, I'm sorry if you've waited for so long. I'll try my best to update again next week (PLS PRAY FOR ME). And I'll be starting to tag people in the next chapter. If you want to be tagged, go to this post: SY Updates

I hope you are all in good health and safe wherever you guys are! 😭❤️

☘ Ch.6

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oohfluffy · 1 year

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SY Updates

Hi! Like how I managed the tagging requests from TIHM, this post will be my basis whenever Still You gets an update. Since I don't regularly update my current story, it will be easier for you guys, my beloved and patient readers, to be tagged whenever I do update.

If you’d like to be tagged on the SY updates, like this post so I’ll know!

Thank you so much for all your support 😭💖

#SY tag requests

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oohfluffy · 1 year

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OFF THE GRID: DO KYUNGSOO (2022) Q. Are you more of an extrovert or an introvert?

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oohfluffy · 1 year

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im back after months!

belated merry Christmas and happy new year, everyone! 😭✨

currently writing chapter 5. wait for meeeee.

SY Ch. 4 | DKS

Group: EXO

Member: Do Kyungsoo

Theme: Angst | Fluff | Neighbor!AU

Word Count: 4,500

chapter 4

Okay, but when will that be?

The constant clicking of keys was your background music as your mind wandered to another dimension. It was only halfway through the day, but you feel like you're already floating away from work.

You've never seen Kyungsoo in the cafe for the past few days, and you wondered when you will see him again. Will you even see him again? If not, then why did he say that you should tell him about yourself next time? When is that next time?

"I don't think scrolling across the excel file for 10 minutes will do the work, noona."

You snapped out of your reverie when you heard your hoobae tell you that. You pitifully smiled at him, meeting his teasing expression. Being caught while being absent-minded at work by a junior is so humbling.

"Thanks for the reminder, hoobae."

"A penny for your thoughts?" Hanbin raised his eyebrow at you as he leaned back on his chair. You just shook your head as you faced the computer again. Wonho wasn't around for a meeting, which left just you and Hanbin on the same side of the cubicles. "A guy problem, huh? Is it this cafe guy?"

"Shush." You shut him up as he laughed.

"You've got a crush on him."

"I don't."

"I've met a lot of girls, and your expression says otherwise. I know that face." He smiled smugly, his chair almost completely facing you. "My girlfriend also told me before that she didn't like me, but look at her now, so in love with me as I am with her."

"No need to flex right on my face, young one." You rolled your eyes at him while shaking your head. He leaned on his palm as he looked at you with a teasing smile. "I was just wondering if…" You fiddled with your mouse, fingers slowing down on the surface of the keyboard. "I'll be seeing him around the neighborhood."

"Hmm, maybe? You said the old lady at your laundry knows him, right? He must be living nearby then."

Hanbin has a point, but you still haven't seen him around even when you were taking walks on the weekend.

Let's drown ourselves with work then. I need him out of my mind. Let's go, go, go.

You had lunch as quick as you can, too preoccupied with the work you had pending for today. Your friends just shrugged your rush as they watched you walk away with a glint of determination in your eyes. As soon as you sat back on your chair, you pulled up the tabs of excel as you took out the papers by your drawer.

You don't have any deadlines for today, but you felt like you could do the work due the next day.

Mind full of numbers, data, and analyses, you didn't even realize that it was already time to go home. You were still motivated to finish everything, not wanting to cut the momentum. Your eyebrows furrowed as you stared at the screen of your computer, fingers not stopping their movements as you input data within the sheet.

"It's past 5pm already, Ms. Nam. I think that could wait for another day."

You almost cursed as you typed the wrong number. You looked up at the guy who disturbed you. He was smiling as you felt the ache on your wrists. It was indeed a long time since you looked around. There were only two other people in the office excluding the two of you.

"I'm almost finished, Wonho. You can go ahead." You said before glancing at your watch.

"I don't know why you're pushing yourself harder today, but if you're just doing this to keep your mind off of a problem, it's going to be temporary. You'll just think about it again at home, and you won't get enough sleep." Wonho leaned his arm on your cubicle divider. You just sighed as you thought he was right. "Let's just go home, man."

You hesitated as you looked back at your screen. You clicked your tongue before saving all your progress, rolling your eyes as you heard Wonho say yes. As soon as you turned off your computer, you took off your coat from the chair and grabbed your bag. Wonho said goodbye to your remaining co-workers being the office's congenial man.

"Coffee?" He said as you stepped outside the building. Your mind instantly wandered to the possibility that Kyungsoo might be there. Wonho chuckled as he saw your eyes going in the direction where the cafe was. "Okay then. You look like you really wanted to see that guy, huh?"

"I-I haven't even said anything!" Your cheeks flushed as you looked away from the cafe, but Wonho was already walking towards it. "Y-Yah, Wonho-ah!"

"Come on, Eunjoo. I think I can see the guy from here."

Let's just say that your feet led you to the cafe without you knowing.

As soon as you entered the cafe, you were in another dimension. The door closed behind you, muting the sounds from the busy street. The smell of coffee and bread with the lovely classical music softly caressing your ears were a delight to your exhausted self from work.

"That him?" You heard Wonho whisper as you both walked to the counter. Your eyes met with Kyungsoo's as you got near. He was talking to this woman, who was obviously chatting her way as she ordered, while he tapped on the screen in front of him. You were about to wave at him when he looked away and glanced at the woman instead. You lowered your hand, ears reddening in embarrassment.

That would have been really embarrassing, Eunjoo!

"What do you want?" You blinked several times before looking at Wonho. He was raising his eyebrows at you, quite concerned about your mental state. You didn't even notice that it was already your turn to order. "Eunjoo-ah?"

"U-Uh, I'll get whatever you ordered then." You glanced at Kyungsoo, who was intently looking at you. You instantly looked back at Wonho, not finding enough courage to stare back at the man behind the counter.

"Then two of those, please." Wonho smiled at Kyungsoo.

"Alright, sir." Kyungsoo replied with his gentle voice, making you turn to him again. It felt like a long time since you heard him. What luck should you have to be able to hear him everyday talk in your ears? His eyes darted to you all of a sudden as if hearing your thoughts.

This time, you didn't look away.

You almost missed how his eyes squinted and how his lips curved. You were ready to drop dead—

"Eunjoo?"

You were brought back to reality when Wonho tugged your arm. You didn't even know that he was already done ordering! You mumbled an apology to the next customer before walking in haste with Wonho behind you, who was obviously trying not to laugh. You chose the usual spot where you sit, taking the seat that faces away from the counter.

"He's probably thinking that I'm crazy about him now." You said as Wonho took a seat in front of you, grinning at the sight of you blushing like a teenage girl. "Oh gosh, I can't go back here now!"

"Stop it. It's normal for people to be absent-minded at times, you know? Maybe you were just too tired from work that your senses weren't working well already—"

"I was obviously staring at him!"

"It's like your recharging yourself with a wonderful sight—"

"You're not helping!" You laughed at his excuse, making you feel a bit better. Wonho smiled as he noticed your shoulders loosening up. "Well, I-I don't think he noticed at all. He stares at a lot of people here, even the woman before us. It's not that obvious if I did that to him as well, right?"

"Uhuh."

"Your orders, sir." You almost bit your tongue when you heard his voice right behind you. Wonho was just politely smiling at Kyungsoo as he received the plates with cheesecakes. "Eunjoo-ssi."

"Oh, you know Eunjoo?" Wonho played innocent as he took a sip of his iced americano. Kyungsoo placed the familiar bowl with cookies beside your plate, instantly bringing a smile to your face. Wonho's eyebrows raised as he saw that, lips twitching to tease you.

Your disappointment of not seeing him for days and your embarrassment from earlier were wiped out just with a bowl of cookies.

"She's regular here, and…" Kyungsoo looked at you. His eyes are so beautiful that you would not get tired looking into them. "...we're friends."

"Y-Yeah, we are!" You suddenly blurted as you saw Wonho nodding as if nonchalant, but you can see his mind going elsewhere. "T-Thanks for these freebies again, Kyungsoo-ssi. I'd eat them well."

"Do enjoy." He smiled at you before turning back and walking to the counter again. You breathed out with a satisfied smile before taking a cookie from the bowl. You took a bite and your eyes closed at the right sweetness and saltiness of the snack.

"Wah, you're really enjoying just as he said."

"Ugh shut up." You rolled your eyes at your friend.

"He seems nice. He has this aura that will make you feel comfortable and warm inside." Wonho gestured his hands around before forking on his cheesecake. You nodded enthusiastically as you munched on your cookie. "The customers also seem to be fond of him."

"Well, not only is his personality swoonable, but he's obviously handsome. I get why people are fond of him." You shrugged as you took a bite of the cheesecake.

"Hmm, I think this guy likes you."

You coughed as you looked back at Wonho, who was nodding to himself as he stared somewhere. You glanced at where he was looking and saw Kyungsoo behind the counter, not as the cashier but as the barista this time.

"W-Why? What made you say that? I know we are friends, but lying to me for the sake of—"

"He delivered our orders." He answered as if it was the obvious answer. Your eyebrows furrowed in confusion.

"He always does that with others like the older customers and children. I don't see why…" Your voice lowered as your lips pouted a bit, thinking that you might be more special than you thought. You slightly curved your lips as you sipped on your iced coffee.

"Oh, oh look at this woman." Wonho chuckled at the sight of you suddenly getting shy. "He might be doing the serving all the time for the people he likes. He got back behind the counter as soon as he served our orders. Well, it's bad to keep your hopes up, maybe not?"

"You really just cheered me up just to bring me down, huh?" You tsked at your friend as he shrugged at you while munching on his cheesecake. "I'll figure it out somehow when we get to talk again, but he's always working and I haven't seen him at the laundry shop again." You mumbled as you took another cookie from the bowl.

You were about to take the cookie into your mouth when you saw a little pink paper further inside the bowl. Your eyes widened as you instantly ate the cookie before getting the paper. Wonho was texting at the moment, his eyes squinting in concentration, so he didn't notice you reading the little paper in your hand.

I've been all around working, so I haven't seen you. I'd like to invite you to dinner. My shift ends in a bit. I know the perfect place for this cold weather. My treat, of course. - Kyungsoo (010-XXX-XXX)

You quickly took the note inside your pocket and glanced at the counter as casually as possible. Kyungsoo was busy cleaning up the counter, focusing on the smallest dirt that he could find on the corners. His lips were slightly pouting as his eyes were full in concentration.

So hardworking.

"I got a message from my uncle. I'm needed at the meeting he's having with the partner company. I was gonna go home, ah shit." Wonho said with a frown before emptying his plate.

"You can go. I can go home by myself."

"I know you can." He nodded as he looked at his watch. "Let's finish up then, so it won't get too late."

"Uhm, I'd like to stay for a while. You can go ahead." You smiled. He looked at you with a questioning gaze before glancing at the counter. "Yeah, I won't stay long outside so don't worry."

"Hmm okay. Just message me when you get home."

—

It was a few minutes before 6 in the evening.

You went to the bathroom to freshen up and check your emails. Your eyebrows furrowed when you saw a message from your sister. She doesn't really text or call you unless she wants something. At first, you were really looking forward to her messages because you feel lonely sometimes being away from your family, but then it gets a bit tiring hearing just requests and demands from her.

I want we-miss-you and take-care messages too.

You didn't click on the message and decided to open it once you got home. After washing your hands and checking your face, you left the bathroom to go back to your seat. You saw Kyungsoo already talking to his coworker before leaving the counter and going to the back door.

"Maybe he's done already." You mumbled as you decided to wait outside. You already saved his number on your phone, so you texted him that you would be waiting outside. Walking to the door, you realized that you would be really meeting with Kyungsoo outside of work hours and not just coincidentally.

When you got outside, the city lights were dazzling to see along with the buzzing of people and the night sky. It was chilly, making you grip your coat closer to you. You watched as the cars passed by you, people conversing as they walked on the sidewalk, the smoke coming from some vendor stalls right across the street, and—

"Eunjoo-ssi. Sorry for making you wait."

You looked at the casual dressed man right beside you. His hair was a bit messy while his shirt was a bit crumpled as if he was rushing to get ready and out of work.

He still looks cute though.

"N-No, it's fine. I enjoyed the freebies anyway." You chuckled as you tapped on your stomach. "So, where's this perfect place you were talking about?"

He brightly grinned as you mentioned it. He gestured for you to follow him.

"You won't regret coming with me, Eunjoo-ssi. It's nearby, let's go." He said as he moved to the side of the pathwalk where the road was.

You walked side by side, arms touching a bit from time to time as you admired his side view. The silence between the two of you was a bit awkward, but nothing felt more comfortable being beside him. He really exudes that aura that makes you feel warm and safe. In contrast to your observant and alert self, you didn't even realize that you've arrived at your destination.

"We're here, Eunjoo-ssi." Kyungsoo said as he looked at you, who just got to see where he brought you. "I don't know if this is the kind of place that you were expecting, but the food here is like no other."

"It looks really homey here, I like it." You said as he led you inside the cabin-like restaurant. It wasn't that big, only a few tables and a counter near the kitchen, which can be seen from the entrance. Although small, there were a lot of happy people talking with sizzling food on their table. There was music in the background, but it was not too loud to overpower the conversations in between people.

The decor was not extravagant and just minimal, while their lights were warm but energizing in the eyes. Traditional patterns were also on the walls, so they must be serving local food here.

Must have warm soup, kimchi, mandu, and—

"Oh, Soo-ah! You're here!" The old man with an apron came out from the kitchen, smiling big as soon as he saw Kyungsoo. He welcomed him with a pat on his shoulder before looking at you. "Wohoho, you brought a girl with you this time, huh? Finally found the one?"

"Ahjussi, stop that. She's a friend of mine. I'm shamelessly advertising your restaurant here, please." Kyungsoo waved off the old man's teasing while your ears reddenned. You just smiled at him as you bowed a bit in greeting.

"Hehehe, please do take a seat. I'll serve you the best of our menu, oh, but that will be everything on the menu though?" The old man laughed as he gestured to the empty two-seater table nearby. You chuckled while Kyungsoo pulled the chair for you.

"Then let's get small portions of each on the menu. That okay, Eunjoo-ssi?" Kyungsoo smiled at you as you sat down. You were surprised that you'll get everything as the uncle said.

"Would that be okay? I mean, wouldn't that be too many for us? And that will cost you a lot too." You panicked as you looked at the prices on the menu. The prices were reasonable enough, but addinh everything here is a bit costly.

Isn't he having trouble making ends meet? Isn't that why he takes so many part time jobs? I don't think I should make him pay after all!

"I-I'll just take the kimbap and mandu, please." You saw Kyungsoo glance at the cook, who just nodded at him. "A bottled water will do too."

"Okay then. You heard her, ahjussi. Thank you." He said before taking a seat in front of you. He placed his bag under the table, getting comfortable on his seat.

"I see that you're a regular here, Kyungsoo-ssi." You looked around the place and observed the interior more. "I didn't even know it was near the business street. I guess I didn't really explore that much around the district."

"Well, I started working at the cafe just half a year ago. I was always all over the place when I moved to the city." He narrated while placing the utensils near you and the seasonings as if it was a habit. "I had a really tiring day, and I wanted to treat myself for doing a good job for the day. But everything was expensive in the business street and I was trying hard to save up, so I walked all around the place and…" He gestured his hand to the entrance. "I found this place. They were having a buy one take one promo on that day, and it was the last day. I could smell the beef and tteokbokki from the outside. The cost was also worth it, I didn't go home disappointed."

You were smiling as he was showing different expressions as he told his story. You couldn't have imagined that he could make those faces. The Kyungsoo that you have just seen was a smiling and polite one, but this one, you really didn't regret coming with him tonight.

"B-But I didn't invite you here because I'm trying to save money! I was just thrilled to let you experience and taste the food here. The food is not only good, but it's not that expensive so it's a win-win thing." He said in haste while you giggled at how he was struggling to say the words. "And…" His voice lowered a bit, making you calm down before your heart pounded faster again.

"I don't just bring strangers over, okay? I was happy to invite you and share this place with you."

"Here are your orders, Eunjoo-ssi, Kyungsoo-ah." The old man served the bowls of kimbap and kimchi with a smile on his face. You didn't get to talk as Kyungsoo instantly helped him bring the tray over to your table. Your cheeks would have fallen off with how huge your smile was.

"It smells really good, ahjussi. Thank you." You commented as you looked at your bowl. You thought that he was done serving your table when he took another tray full of other small portions of each in the menu. "Oh, I don't think we ordered—"

"Thank you, ahjussi. They look amazing as usual." Kyungsoo cut you off as he helped the old man place the bowls and plates on your small table. "We'll eat them well!"

"You better." The old man smiled at him before looking at you. "Enjoy the food, Eunjoo-ssi. I made them with all my heart! Finish everything, okay?"

You glanced at Kyungsoo who was preparing the utensils from the container that you'll be using, wiping them with tissue before placing them on the side of your bowl.

"I'll eat them with all my heart as well, ahjussi."

"We'll eat well." Kyungsoo said before looking up at you, his gentle eyes sparkling under the warm light. "I hope you like it, Eunjoo-ssi. This one is really my favorite."

I don't think it's a bad idea to fall and keep my hopes up, Wonho-ah. Ah, I'm getting in trouble.

"It's really warm." You smiled as you put your hands together. Kyungsoo hummed while placing side dishes in your bowl without a word.

Somehow, it felt like you could get used to this.

The buzzing you felt on your pocket pulled you out of your thoughts. You glanced at Kyungsoo who was enjoying his meal, and hesitated to touch your phone in your pocket. It was on silent, but it kept buzzing.

"Kyungsoo-ssi, is there a bathroom here? I think I need to go."

"Oh, right that way." His eyes looked over beside the kitchen where a hallway was at. "Just take a turn and you'll see the door sign."

You quickly stood up and said excuse to go to the bathroom. He looked a bit concerned with your uncomfortable expression, but didn't ask. As soon as you got inside the bathroom, you took out your phone and saw your sister calling. You answered the call before you even get to think about the reason why she is calling.

Probably going to ask me to buy her a new dress for an event.

"Eunae-ah." You greeted her.

"Unnie! I've been calling you for hours! We're at the hospital, mom's in the emergency room! We need money! I-I don't know what else to do. D-Dad's not around." Eunae's trembling voice rang through your ears, surprising you with a panicked voice and not the usual demanding one.

"H-Hospital? What-what happened to mom?" Your legs almost gave up, but your other hand gripped on the sink. You could hear your younger sister's sobs while explaining what happened.

"I just got home from school when I heard dad and mom fighting. T-There's something about having another woman and-and mom was freaking out, and then I heard a thud from upstairs. I was scared to even go up, and I didn't want to see them fight." Eunae's voice was unstable, stuttering. Your eyes teared up as you imagined how hard it was for her to witness such a thing. "I just found mom struggling to stand up when dad left. I figured that d-dad might have hit her. She just passed out right after."

You let out a frustrated breath as you looked up at the ceiling. You thought that your parents' relationship got better when you left home, but you didn't expect that they would do this with their daughter around. Eunae didn't deserve that. You wiped your cheeks which were stained with tears.

"Eunae-ah, calm down, okay? Your sister will solve this. I want you to stay focused on getting mom feel better, and be strong. I know it might be hard after that, but you don't have any choice but to do so." You swallowed the lump on your throat. "I'd be sending money later, don't worry. I trust that you'll help mom manage the funds. Comfort mom, okay? Tell her that you're with her all the time, and that you'll help her around the house. D-Don't order her around."

"I-I understand, unnie. I will do that." You could hear her sigh in relief.

"Did she have many bruises? What's her state now?" You were nervous as you asked her the details. You love your mom although most of the time she was very demanding and selfish, but you know that it was rooted somewhere within her experiences. You just love her without judging her, the same with your sister and father.

"She's stable. The doctor said she must have been under so much stress and exhaustion. Her arms got a bit of bruises, and her cheeks were swollen. I didn't even notice that…" Eunae cried.

"I-It's a relief she's stable now…"

Before you could even speak more, a knock interrupted you.

"Eunjoo-ssi, you okay there? You've been inside for a bit." You heard Kyungsoo's worried voice behind the door. You instantly pulled yourself together before replying.

"I-I'm okay, I'll be out in a second. Sorry."

"Okay." He said in a hesitant voice before you heard him walk away. You sighed before going back to your call.

"Eunae-ah, I'll go back home this weekend. Hold on a bit, okay? It's going to be fine."

Going back home was a delight for you before, but now, you don't know what to feel anymore. After a bit more of reassuring and comforting your sister, you said your goodbye before Kyungsoo got more concerned. You got out of the bathroom and saw him almost standing up again. When he saw you, he sat back again.

"I'm sorry for worrying you, Kyungsoo-ssi. I got a call from my younger sister, so it took a while." You forced a smile at him when you sat back down, trying to make it a light matter. But Kyungsoo must be a mind reader as he looked into your eyes.

"I understand. Everything fine with her?"

"W-Well, I suppose it's fine for now. I'll be going back home for a while. I need to check up on them." You nodded to yourself, avoiding sharing unnecessary personal issues. "I miss my family too, you know."

Kyungsoo just hummed in reply, but his gestures were comforting already. He placed a warmed up soup beside your bowl, and placed the freshly cooked mandu near you. You wouldn't have thought that deeply about it, but being in a very emotional state, you noticed how much he was being considerate to you tonight. You smiled.

"Thank you, Kyungsoo-ah."

His eyes widened at your tone. Your voice was so soft that he might have not heard it if he wasn't focused on you enough. His eyes stared into your tearing up ones, breath almost stopping with your sad eyes.

Once again, you made his chest tighten as if you had his heart in your hands.

— ☘ —

A/N:

As promised, I'm updating a day earlier (supposed to be updating on Friday) because I had a break for this day and my mind was in its creative state to write! Striking the iron while it's hot! I hope you enjoyed this chapter, and I'll be back for more soon too. Please do wait patiently for this author! 😭❤️

I miss you all, and I hope you are in good health always! :>

☘ Ch.5

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oohfluffy · 2 years

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OUTTT NOWW AAAAA

Midnights, the stories of 13 sleepless nights scattered throughout my life, will be out October 21. Meet me at midnight.

Pre-order now: https://taylor.lnk.to/taylorswiftmidnights

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oohfluffy · 2 years

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Xiumin:love You:yes? im otw home already. you got something you need? Xiumin: uhuh like i need it immediately You: did you run out of face masks again? will be stopping by the store in a few Xiumin: was about to say i need u rn, but the masks... You: LMAO >< u baby, i can give u both Xiumin: make it quick, okay? will wait for u. love u.

#exo #exo texts #exo x you #xiumin texts #xiumin x you #exo xiumin #exo imagines #text imagines

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