take my breath.
summary | lee donghyuck did not believe in ‘love at first sight.’ key word: did. he does now, but only because you happened to fall into his arms on the icy road in the narrow streets. you’re going to render him breathless from the countless times your smile takes his breath away.
characters | lee donghyuck x reader(f).
genres | fluff, romance, slice of life, strangers-to-lovers, meet-cute au, high school au, non-idol au.
warnings | profanity, me projecting my distaste for skinny jeans sorry hyuck ily, mentions of religion (hyuck is my fav church boy), he calls reader ‘princess’ :o like once tho lol, second-hand embarrassment,, mentions of jisung liking ive’s gaeul, not proofread so it’s probs all over the place sorry :P
word count | 5.5k.
37.5MHz | take my breath by nct dream ⋆ first love by sondia ⋆ lucky by exo.
it was time i had a more shy mc in my fics 💪💪 also this is me just projecting my dream meet-cute scenario that i always wish would happen during the damned winter lol!! ty all sm for waiting for this ep, i hope u enjoy ^^ ep.03 of my candy! miniseries, but it can be read on its own!
SATURDAYS ARE FOR THE BOYS, AND WHEN THE BOYS get together, Lee Donghyuck’s entire video game setup comes out.
Today is the second day of January, and in celebration of the New Year, Donghyuck has invited some of his closest friends over for an entire day of video games. Huang Renjun, Lee Jeno, Liu Yangyang, and Osaki Shotaro have their hands on a controller. Zhong Chenle is busy calling his girlfriend whereas Na Jaemin is immersed in a podcast about bunnies. To his left, Mark Lee is stressing over university course selections, and to his right, Park Jisung is scrolling through an unknown girl’s Instagram.
Donghyuck, being the Donghyuck he is, scooches over to Jisung with a mischievous smile.
“Who’s that?” he asks, startling the younger boy. “Your girlfriend?”
Jisung’s face turns red and Donghyuck wishes he had his phone right now to capture the scene. “N—No! She’s not my girlfriend—just a classmate, that’s all.”
That’s what Jisung says, but Donghyuck can tell that something is amiss. He nudges Jisung and wiggles his eyebrows. “Then is she a crush?”
Jisung resembles a beet.
“She is?” the older one coos, pinching the first year’s mochi-like cheek. “What do you like about”—he pauses to read the name—“Kim Gaeul?”
“I don’t know,” Jisung honestly responds, looking down at his unlocked phone. “She’s really pretty and good at dancing.”
“It was love at first sight,” Chenle budges in with a dreamy sigh. In his eyes, the joy of teasing sparkles. “He’s been stalking her Instagram ever since November.”
Donghyuck scrunches his nose at Chenle’s words. “Love at first sight? You’re kidding, right?”
Jisung shakes his head. “Why would I be kidding?”
Because ‘love at first sight’ is fake, Donghyuck wants to scoff, but he decides to keep that to himself. Jisung is obviously smitten with this girl, and as his older brother figure, the last thing Donghyuck wants to do is smash his innocent feelings. He instead opts to say, “You should at least follow her Instagram.” To that, Jisung vehemently shakes his head, and the topic is dropped at once.
Donghyuck doesn’t believe in love at first sight. To him, love is something that occurs over time, not seconds. How can someone claim they love another when all they know is what they look like and their name? There’s no depth to love at first sight, no authenticity. Perhaps he’s being antagonistic, or maybe he’s just realistic. Either way, there is no such thing as ‘love at first sight’ in Donghyuck’s dictionary, and it will be like that for the next one hundred years.
That was him yesterday, and whoever he was yesterday is not who he is today.
Lee Donghyuck thinks he’s fallen in love at first sight.
The road to the local CU is short but icy, an unfortunate outcome of the repeated snowfall throughout the past few weeks. The boys had slept over after last night’s truth or dare session seeped into the early hours of today. Even now, six of them are sprawled all across his living room while Renjun is tucked into Donghyuck’s sister’s bed. Mark walks beside him, the Canadian boy lounging in a sweater and a pair of basketball shorts despite the cold weather. Compared to him, Donghyuck is donning a thick winter jacket and a wool scarf for good measure.
“You look funny,” comments Mark, his hands finding solace in his sweater pockets.
Donghyuck shoots him a glare. “In Korea, someone like you is more likely to be stared at than me.”
The two make their way down the sidewalk to where CU is, finding themselves lost in a heated debate on whether Overwatch or League of Legends is a better game. (Donghyuck is a firm believer in Overwatch supremacy.) Mark exasperatedly shakes his head at Donghyuck’s stance, hands gesturing all over the place as he asserts why the younger one is completely and blatantly wrong. Donghyuck, in turn, groans in vexation, his chest muddled with frustration.
Donghyuck turns the corner. “Mark, you don’t underst—”
One moment, he’s breathing like a regular person. Half a second later, Donghyuck feels as if the air has been knocked out of his lungs. Oh great, he thinks as a body crashes into him and his arms instinctively wrap around them, what a wonderful way to start the day.
“Oh my God,” a small voice squeaks, clearly mortified at the predicament. His focus is hazy from the impact, blinking to clear his blurring gaze. “I am so, so sorry!”
Donghyuck glances at the figure in his arms and his eyes double in size. “Woah…” he mumbles, zoning out of his surroundings.
You pull away from his embrace, pink cheeks displaying your embarrassment. You profusely bow, avoiding eye contact with the boy. “I’m so sorry about this! Uh,” you crouch to pick up the bus card you’d dropped, “sorry! And thank you for catching me. Have a great day!”
One moment, you’re standing in front of Donghyuck and Mark. Half a second later, you’re turning the corner with great urgency.
Mark blinks. His lips are parted in confusion but no sound leaves his mouth. It takes him a minute to absorb the fast-paced situation. Finally, he says, “What the fuck was that?”
Donghyuck grazes a hand over his pounding heart, feeling the irregular beat through the several layers of thick winter clothes. Suddenly, he’s hotter than the sun despite the freezing weather. His ears are no longer tinted pink from the cold, but rather, a shade of crimson from the encounter. There’s an exhilarating feeling in his stomach, butterflies swarming his gut. He can vaguely hear Mark call his name in the background, the older guy tapping his shoulder.
Is this what Jisung felt like?
Did Donghyuck just fall in love at first sight?
“Melk,” he whispers—Mark makes a face at the nickname—one hand still over his heart, “I think I’m in love.”
Mark coughs. “I’m sorry, what?”
“So, let me get the facts straight,” says Renjun, hands folded as he digests the contents of Mark’s retelling. “You caught some girl from falling onto the ice by basically hugging her and now you’re in love with this girl who’s name you don’t even know?”
Donghyuck dreamily sighs. “Yeah.”
Jaemin flops onto the ground. “I think you’re insane.”
Donghyuck dreamily nods. “Yeah.”
The group of boys simultaneously shake their heads at Donghyuck’s lovestruck expression, (understandably) ridiculed at how smitten he is with a random girl he met on the streets. Donghyuck, on the other hand, can’t stop thinking about your flustered frame from earlier. He’s never before seen a girl as cute as you. If he was in a K-Drama, he’s certain CGI flowers would have decorated the screen.
“Did you get a good look at her face?” asks Shotaro, invested in Donghyuck’s love life.
The male lead smiles. “She’s so pretty.”
Yangyang whistles. “Recognise her from anywhere, maybe?”
Donghyuck’s smile falls. His head hangs low. “No. She doesn’t look like a student at our school—I would definitely remember her face if she was. She did seem to be around our age, though.”
“If she was in our area,” says Jeno, patting his friend’s gloomy back, “there’s a chance you’ll see her again. Could be from a different block of complexes.”
“Yeah,” Chenle chimes in, briefly looking up from his Nintendo Switch. “If she was running the opposite way, she might’ve been going to the bus stop.”
Donghyuck perks up at that thought. “Maybe,” he excitedly murmurs. The seed of hope has begun to grow in his heart. Jeno and Chenle are right; why else would you be in this neighbourhood if you didn’t live nearby? As his friends scoot back to their respective activities, Donghyuck bites his lower lip in anticipation.
Perhaps, he will run into you sooner than expected.
Fate must hold a special spot in her heart for Donghyuck.
Roughly thirty-three hours after his meet-cute with you, Donghyuck decides to go for an ice cream run with Yangyang at seven in the evening. (Renjun was going to join, but Donghyuck’s sister insisted on cuddling and being the sweet boyfriend but terrible best friend he is, Renjun happily agreed. Donghyuck is not on good terms with his younger sister anymore.)
Yangyang rummages through the ice cream bars, searching for his go-to Seolleim. Donghyuck grabs a Nugabar and a Screwbar—he contemplates on giving one to Renjun, but ultimately decides on eating both of them instead.
His money, Renjun’s loss.
“Hello,” Donghyuck absentmindedly greets the cashier, placing the ice cream bars on the counter for scanning. He fishes out his card to pay, sticking the slim plastic into the machine. When the payment is complete, Donghyuck grabs his snacks and glances up to say his thanks.
Your pretty yet exhausted smile greets him back.
“You—!” His words are caught in his throat, taken aback at the scene before him. He tilts his ball cap from obscuring the top of his view. “The girl from yesterday!”
Your eyebrows crinkle, adorning a puzzled expression. Then, after studying his face for a second, your eyes widen in remembrance. “Ah! The guy from yesterday!”
(Yangyang watches from the sidelines.)
The fatigue has now been replaced by sheer embarrassment and adrenaline from yesterday’s events, your ears burning red. “I’m so sorry about yesterday.” you apologise again, bowing for the nth time. “I hope you weren’t hurt anywhere!”
Donghyuck rapidly shakes his head, sticking his hands up in denial. “No! No, I wasn’t hurt. Were you?”
“Oh, no, I wasn’t, thanks to you.” you softly reply, tucking a loose strand of hair behind your ears. “I’d like to make up for my clumsy mistake, if that’s alright. Please, take something from the store for free.”
(Yangyang snatches a bag of shrimp crackers.)
Donghyuck refuses. “No, it’s okay. It wasn’t that big of a deal anyway.”
(Yangyang slowly returns the bag of shrimp crackers.)
“Are you sure?” you ask, lips pouting.
Donghyuck finds you irresistibly cute. He can’t believe he’s never seen you around before, with your lovely lips and charming eyes. Hell, he’s never written poetry before, but with the way his mind won’t stop illustrating your beauty, he’s bound to replace history’s best poet with ease. Lee Donghyuck is attracted to you. He wants to see you again, and again, and again. The gears in his mind spin as a fantastic idea generates in his head.
“Maybe,” he slowly starts, scanning your face, “if you really want to make up for it, you can give me your name instead.”
(Yangyang suppresses a shriek.)
The red spreads from your ears and neck to your cheeks and Donghyuck thinks you’re a gift sent from God. His parents didn’t get him the PC set he’s been wanting for ages, so as retribution, the heavens sent you right into his arms. Literally.
You tug at your sweater, averting your gaze. “Y/N,” you speak timidly. “My name is Y/N.”
“Nice to meet you, Y/N,” Donghyuck gently grins, his heart rate accelerating at the progress he’s made. “I’m Donghyuck.”
When you softly smile at him, Donghyuck believes he saved the world in his previous life.
“Maybe,” Yangyang mimics to the boys, “you can make up for it by giving me your name instead.”
The crowd hollers, hounding a proud Donghyuck with pats on his back and slaps to his shoulders.
It’s been four days since Donghyuck got your name, and he’s returned to the convenience store every evening in hopes of seeing you again. Unfortunately for him, your shifts did not align with his visits, and Donghyuck is starting to wonder if he hallucinated the entire encounter. (No, he couldn’t have; not when Yangyang continues to reenact the entire scene during their lunch breaks.) He steels himself with a slap to his left cheek. Today is Saturday, exactly one week since Donghyuck’s breath was taken away. Once again, he’s going to pop by CU around seven in the evening––this time, with Renjun, who he managed to convince as the younger Lee’s attending a student council dinner party. With Renjun shuffling behind, Donghyuck enters CU with high hopes.
The Y/N drought instantly vanishes when he sees your figure at the cashier. You’re scanning a basket of snacks for a group of kids, laughing at their animated antics. Donghyuck is very, very close to becoming addicted to your smile.
“Renjun,” he excitedly taps the older guy, “that’s her.” He points at your figure.
“Oh, I’ve seen her before,” says Renjun, glancing your way. “She seems to be a student at that prestigious all-girls school near ours.”
Ah, the joy Donghyuck drowns in whenever he learns more about you (in, you know, a non-stalkerish way). “Really? How’d you know?”
Renjun browses the instant ramyun packages. “Saw her a few weeks ago with a calculus textbook on the countertop. You know, the ones specifically made by that school?”
Donghyuck does not know because he never really cared about the prestigious all-girls high school before––which was extremely disrespectful on his part for disregarding such a wonderful school with such a beautiful student. He’s jealous of the girls that attend your school, and how they’re most likely graced with your presence every day. Donghyuck would kill to see you every single day.
His hands grab a package of Neoguri ramyun whereas Renjun picks out the classic Shin. The two of them head towards the now-empty cashier, the kids having filed out a few minutes prior.
“Oh, hello.” you grin. “Donghyuck, right?”
He passes you the package and beams. “Yeah! Nice to see you again, Y/N.”
(While Donghyuck is preoccupied with staring at your lovely face, Renjun slips his package onto the counter and you scan it as well. Donghyuck pays for both of the ramyun, but he’s too distracted to realise the extra dollar leaving his wallet.)
“Has it been busy at all?” asks Donghyuck, pulling his card out of the machine. He’s desperately searching for an excuse to linger just a little longer. Renjun finds a sudden interest for the alcoholic drinks located at the opposite side of the store.
You shake your head. “Just a few customers here and there. It’s cold outside, so I guess everyone is staying indoors.”
“Understandable,” the boy hums.
The convenience store falls silent, Renjun attempting to engross himself in the ingredients of soju, Donghyuck digging through his brain for another topic, you looking down at your phone for the time. It’s awkward––so awkward––that Donghyuck thinks you might never want to talk to him again. So, pulling on his big boy pants, he pops the big question. “Do you have a lover?”
Renjun chokes on his spit. Donghyuck bites down on his tongue. Your eyes widen at the unexpected inquiry. “Uh—no,” you sputter, cheeks red. “I don’t have a lover.”
“Then…” He licks his parted lips. “Can I ask you out on a date?”
The convenience store falls silent. Renjun contemplates grabbing his friend and making a run for it. Donghyuck prays to every single deity out there for a positive response. You digest his words, letting each and every syllable sink in.
You nibble on your lower lip. “But…you don’t even know me.”
Donghyuck’s heart falls (so does Renjun’s), but he gathers hope when he catches your curious gaze. “You’re right,” he confidently states, “so I want to get to know you. I’ll be honest with you, Y/N. I think you’re really cute. Like really, really cute. I kinda fell for you when you—you know—fell into my arms. Sorta like love at first sight?” He’s rambling at this point, unveiling how desperate he is to have one chance with you. Love sure does silly things. “I mean, no pressure, though.”
Pink paints your face. You’re about to answer when a voice squeaks from behind. “Dude, move.” Annoyed, Donghyuck turns around with a glare but falters at the sight of four middle school girls. Oh. Donghyuck once lived with a middle school girl, so he knows better than to test their patience. Like a child that’s been disciplined, he obeys, scooting over to let the girls purchase their snacks. A hand grasps his wrist, tugging him away from the counter and towards the exit.
“Hey! Renjun!” hisses Donghyuck, struggling to release himself. “What are you doing?”
Renjun steps into the cold atmosphere. “Saving you from further embarrassment. Seriously, Hyuck, what were you doing? Confessing your undying love for her on the third meeting? You don’t even know her full name!” The Chinese boy abruptly stops and Donghyuck stumbles to a halt. Renjun prods the younger’s chest. “Look, you’re being too rash. She’s clearly on the shy side, so approach her, don’t overwhelm her, okay? Don’t start panicking and blurt out random shit.”
Donghyuck purses his lips. He wants to refute but he can’t; Renjun is right. He hangs his head low, feeling a little (re: really) pathetic at how careless he had been. Impressions are important, and right now, he fears he’s left a terrible one on you.
Renjun, obviously noticing Donghyuck’s sulky mood, adds, “You’ve still got a chance, though! From what I’ve observed, she seems to be interested in you, just extremely timid. I think, if you head back in with your thoughts organised—”
“Donghyuck!”
It takes him a second to register your voice. Donghyuck spins around, shocked to see you jogging towards him, still clad in your CU uniform. And like déjá vu, you slip on the ice, falling into his warm embrace.
(Donghyuck could get used to this.)
“Y/N,” he breathes, getting a whiff of your sweet scent. “Are you okay?”
Like always, your ears are tinted red. “Uh—yes! Yes, thank you.” You balance yourself on the slippery surface. “I just wanted to give you something,” you quietly say, lifting a slip of paper. Your handwriting is scrawled on it, which Donghyuck finds effortlessly cute. “It’s my number. For, uh, you know, the date.” Your voice grows smaller at the last sentence, awkwardly avoiding his eyes.
If Donghyuck is a dynamite, you are his lighter.
“The—date?” he stammers, unable to believe his ears. “You’re—You—Yes to the date?”
You gently laugh. “Yes to the date.”
Donghyuck is on—no, above cloud nine. He plucks the piece of paper from your hands, grasping it as if it’d fly away. He cocks an eyebrow and tosses you a smirk. “I’ll text you later, princess.”
You avoid his eyes but a grin tugs at your lips. “I’ll be waiting.” With that, you give him a small wave and retreat back to the convenience store. Donghyuck watches you disappear, his heart rate breaking records.
Renjun has one hell of a story to tell the others the next time the boys get together.
Sunday morning, Donghyuck lays in bed as he stares at your contact in his phone. It’s been a little over twelve hours since you gave him your number, and because he’s a nervous wreck, he has yet to text you about the date.
He ponders what sort of date would be the best. A picnic date? No, it’s too cold. A museum date? No, Donghyuck isn’t really into museums. An arcade date? No, he isn’t willing to unleash his no-showering-only-gaming side to you (yet).
A movie date seems to be the most ideal first date, from both an objective and subjective perspective. He opens Naver, curious about the current selection of movies in theatres. Donghyuck scrolls through the list, spotting several movies he’s seen advertisements for. A particular one catches his eye—Candy, a romance-comedy movie featuring four high school boys and their entertaining love lives. He clicks on the description, intrigued by the premise. (Don’t let anyone know, but Donghyuck is a diehard romance fan.) A small smile settles on his lips.
Donghyuck, with a vague itinerary in mind, sends you a message.
donghyuck: hi y/n, it’s donghyuck :)
You respond almost immediately.
you: donghyuck!! hi ʕ•ᴥ•ʔ
He might overdose on your cuteness.
donghyuck: so i was thinking of our date
donghyuck: and i was wondering if ur up for a movie at the nearby lotte mall??
you: i’d love to watch a movie! which one ?
donghyuck: how does candy sound?
you: i’ve been wanting to watch that one for soo long!!
Donghyuck proudly grins.
donghyuck: i know it’s a little sudden, but is today at 3pm ok?? i’ll buy the tickets and everything, so just bring yourself
you: you don’t have to! i can buy the snacks
donghyuck: maybe you can pay next time ^^
Smooth, he thinks to himself.
you: if u say so haha
you: i’ll see you at three!!
Oh, Donghyuck beams, roses blooming on his cheeks. I definitely saved the world in my previous life.
Today’s look consists of a striped crewneck tucked into wide-legged slacks and a pair of black Converses. Donghyuck’s hair is neatly combed, his bangs parted to reveal a portion of his forehead. The outfit is topped off with a puffer jacket and a spritz of his father’s Dior perfume. Normally, Donghyuck would just wear a leather jacket in an all-black fashion. But Renjun, ever the style guru, emphasised the importance of looking nice on the first date.
(Frankly, Renjun just wanted to play stylist so Donghyuck became his K-Pop idol to dress.)
Donghyuck received a fair amount of compliments at church earlier this morning, many of his peers applauding the new look. He clearly remembers how impressed Uchinaga Aeri was, nearly shedding a tear at his lack of skinny jeans.
(Sorry, Aeri, but Donghyuck still likes his skinny jeans and he won’t change his opinions for anyone. Not even you.)
(…Okay, maybe for you.)
(Can you tell he’s hopelessly in love?)
Despite the below zero weather, Donghyuck’s hands are sweaty and his nape is hot. It’s ten before three p.m., and he’s standing outside of the cinema, waiting for your familiar figure. With every minute that ticks by, his heartbeat jumps faster and faster. He recalls Renjun’s words. Approach her, don’t overwhelm her.
Donghyuck, to put it simply, is terrible with his crushes. He’s always had the tendency of getting ahead of himself, ultimately scaring away the girls he’d been interested in. He never means to overwhelm them, but when his own feelings are swallowing him whole, he can’t help but express his love through words and actions all at once. Donghyuck hopes you’re different; he hopes you won’t be chased away by the flood he may be.
Three on the dot, you’re walking towards him with a bashful smile.
“Hi, Y/N,” he gleams, absolutely elated. “You look really pretty today.”
Your smile may be shadowed by your timidity but it still outshines the sun. “Thank you, Donghyuck. You look good as well.”
He giggles. Donghyuck giggles. “Thanks, Y/N.” Then, “I’ve bought the tickets and everything, we just need to grab some snacks. What’s your favourite popcorn?”
“Mm,” you hum, scanning the options. “I’m fine with anything.”
Right. Donghyuck forgot about your introverted tendencies. You’re on the shy side like Renjun had said, so he’s got to be the assertive one without, well, overwhelming you. The boy clears his throat. “How about caramel?”
You nod. “Sounds great.”
Fifteen minutes later, Donghyuck and you are seated side-by-side in the theatre, positioned near the centre of the large room. To his left are couples. To his right are couples. Behind and front? Also couples. Donghyuck catches a pair sharing a kiss and awkwardly looks away.
He would like to kiss you right now.
Stupid Donghyuck. Baby steps, baby steps.
He would still like to kiss you right now.
Donghyuck lightly slaps his cheek. He’s here to woo you, not scare you away. His priority is to have you reciprocate his overflowing feelings with the same volume of love and then getting a kiss.
The lights dim as the opening advertisements come to an end. You excitedly whisper, “The movie’s starting!” Donghyuck glances over at you, his heart stopping at how breathtaking you are. Not even the theatre could overshadow your beauty.
The opening scene of Candy begins and he reluctantly averts his gaze back to the large screen. Your presence is difficult to ignore, but Donghyuck is not about to get caught staring like a creep. He chews on a handful of popcorn in an attempt to drown in the movie.
Two hours later, Donghyuck is waiting in front of the restrooms, holding your bag in his hands. If anyone were to come up to him and demand an explanation for the plot of Candy from start to finish, he would simply laugh and redirect them to Namuwiki. Donghyuck doesn’t remember a single thing about the rom-com—save for the character ‘Haechan’—because he’d been too busy sneaking glimpses of your side profile. He might as well live on a ventilator from how often he loses his breath around you.
You walk out with your hands damp, shaking them to rid the residual water. The two of you walk towards the exit and Donghyuck continues to hold your bag. He asks, “How was the movie?”
Your eyes glimmer. “It was amazing,” you sigh, dreamy. “I loved the different dynamics between the four couples and Haechan—he reminded me so much of you!” You glance at him and beam, “Haechan was…my favourite character throughout the entire film.”
Oh. Donghyuck gulps. He’ll need to rewatch the movie.
The time reads five twenty-two p.m., and Donghyuck’s stomach resonates with hunger. He purses his lips, browsing through his memories for a decent yet inexpensive restaurant nearby. You must’ve noticed his dilemma as you say, “Why don’t we grab ramyun at the convenience store?” You elaborate, “I forgot my calculus textbook there. Also, we’d get free food.”
Free food? No sane person would ever pass up the opportunity to eat free food.
And so, around six in the evening, Donghyuck is sitting at the local CU with a cup of Neoguri ramyun steaming in front of him. You’ve disappeared, presumably grabbing your calculus textbook and greeting the employee of the hour. His stomach continues to perform all sorts of acrobatics, his nerves gnawing at his heart. Donghyuck has never experienced so many different emotions all at once; it’s like a tsunami has erupted within him.
“Sorry for taking so long.” You appear with a thick textbook in your arms. With a flustered tone, you say, “My manager—she wouldn’t stop asking about you.”
Donghyuck doesn’t hide his cheeky smile. “Really? What did she ask?”
Your eyelashes flutter. “If—you know—if you’re my boyfriend.” You whisper the last part, barely audible enough for Donghyuck to catch. Somehow, the corners of his lips lift even more, a pair of rose-tinted glasses perched on his nose. The way you’re shyly moving about, stirring your cup ramyun, cheeks hot with rouge. Donghyuck thinks that, if a meteor were to hit the earth at this moment, he would be content living the last seconds of his life with you by his side. (Sorry to Lee Donghyuck’s family and friends, but he’s got priorities!) He’s so, so infatuated, so head-over-heels in love with a girl he’s known for less than a month. There’s a plethora of things he doesn’t know about you, but he’s willing to learn every little detail of your life. Donghyuck wants to stay in your world for as long as time permits.
You tap his shoulder. “Donghyuck? Are you okay?” Your cup ramyun is now empty of noodles, only a small amount of soup left. “You spaced out.”
The boy blinks. “Did I?” He ruffles his bangs, accidentally ruining his neatly-combed hair. “Sorry, Y/N. I was thinking about how I’d be happy even if the world ended right now because I’m with you.” He blinks again. He abruptly stands up, neck flushed red as he grabs the garbage strewn before him. “Sorry! Ignore what I just said.” Donghyuck nervously avoids your gaze, scurrying over to the ramyun disposal to throw out the soup and recycle the cups. When he returns to where you’re seated, he fidgets with his fingers, unable to look you straight in the eyes. “It’s, uh, getting late now. I’ll walk you home, if that’s okay?”
Donghyuck misses the way you softly grin. “Sure. Thank you.”
The sun has already set, a dark navy coating the night sky. Several stars pierce through the atmosphere and Donghyuck can vaguely make out the Big Dipper. His gaze naturally shifts to you who’s brighter than the stars. Even under the faded moonlight, he can clearly see the outline of your pretty features.
Donghyuck has no clue where he’s going. He’s blindly following you, walking this cold path with you until your apartment comes into view. You haven’t said anything, which he finds a little nerve-wracking. Donghyuck, being the Donghyuck he is, decides to blurt out, “I’m sorry.”
You continue to walk but confusion taints your face. You tilt your head, lower lip jutted out. “For what? I really enjoyed today, even if it was impromptu.”
He shakes his head. “Not because of the sudden date. Well, I mean, I guess a little, but not really. I’m just…” he inhales sharply, “really sorry about before. How I approached you and overwhelmed you every single time. I didn’t mean to—you know—impose myself on you—”
“You didn’t!” you exclaim, breaking his ramble. In a dulcet tone, you continue, “You never overwhelmed me. I was just surprised to know that a guy was genuinely interested in me, so I wasn’t really sure how to react.” You cross a parking lot. Donghyuck follows. “I’m also terrible with human interactions but you…with you, I feel so comfortable. Don’t ask me why. I have no scientific evidence for that. But just…” You glance at him and he’s unable to tear his eyes away from your face. “I want to get to know you better.”
Donghyuck is glad you’re on the same page. “Me too,” he whispers, elated. “Every time I’m with you, I feel like my heart’s going to explode. In a good way, of course. I really, really like being around you.” I fell in love at first sight.
You stop in front of Building 301 and turn to face him. “Thank you for today, Donghyuck.” you say, voice tender. “I truly enjoyed it.”
His breath catches in his throat. “Me too.”
Something in you must’ve snapped as you bravely lean forwards to press a sweet kiss on his cheek. As you retreat to your spot a few inches away from him, Donghyuck’s jaw slacks in shock. You giggle at his lovestruck expression.
“Good night, Donghyuck.”
It takes everything within him to not squeal.
“Good night, Y/N.”
He watches your figure slip into the apartment building, giving a small wave before disappearing behind the elevator doors. Donghyuck stands rooted to his spot, hand cupping his kissed cheek while his heart runs wild.
You kissed his cheek.
You kissed his cheek.
Donghyuck didn’t believe in love at first sight. It was a stupid conception, because how was someone supposed to develop feelings for a person they had no knowledge about? Donghyuck didn’t understand, and frankly, he still doesn’t. He’s not sure as to why he fell in love with you at a single glance during a chance encounter. But one thing he is sure about?
Lee Donghyuck is confident that you’ll take his breath away every single time until he’s left unable to breathe without your presence.
you: donghyuck!!
Donghyuck pulls out his phone at the notification, a smile immediately spreading at the sender’s name.
you: go home alr! it’s cold outside, i don’t want you to freeze :(
donghyuck: how did you know i’m still out here?
you: i can see you from the sixteenth floor
Donghyuck looks up. The sixteenth floor is far up, but when he squints, he can see your hand shooing him away.
donghyuck: that’s not nice, telling your date to go away
you: if u get sick rn, you can’t be my date anymore so go home and take a long hot shower!!
Donghyuck chuckles.
donghyuck: so, more dates?
You leave him on read for one minute.
you: only if you go home rn and warm up
Donghyuck has never looked forward to living as much as now.
donghyuck: noted. good night, y/n :))
you: good night, donghyuck <3
Donghyuck believes in love at first sight and you are his proof.
bonus: the aftermath.
Approximately one hundred days have passed since you and Donghyuck decided to start dating, and instead of spending the special day outside, you’re snuggled up against your boyfriend at his place, watching Hunter × Hunter on TV. Neither of his parents are home and his younger sister kindly offered to hangout with their neighbour next door. It’s quiet, save for the anime and Donghyuck’s rhythmic breathing.
You lay your head flat against his chest, listening to his heartbeat. Donghyuck strokes your head but his eyes don’t stray from the screen.
Frankly, you’re a little jealous.
“Hyuck,” you whine, poking his nose. He looks down at you with a puzzled face. “Give me a kiss.”
Your boyfriend laughs. “Needy, huh?”
You huff. “I want attention, so give me a kiss.”
Donghyuck chuckles, but he complies nonetheless, adjusting his position so his lips can graze yours. You hum into the kiss, your thumb drawing circles on his cheek.
It’s amazing how easily he takes your breath away.
© NABI (2023); ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
taglist | @matchahyuck @lovehowdream @niinjo @jeonnyread @pckeia @dandelionxgal @huangstape @lemarkjun @mosviqu @neosdaisy @hayven-cov @toothfa-1-ry
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DON’T BLAME THE LOVECATS — 36: ENTRE TUS PUPILAS
→neighbor!jaemin x neighbor f!reader
genre: social media au, neighbors au, fluff, angst, enemies to friends to lovers, humor
wc: 2.4k+
an: that’s a wrap guys, all that’s left is the epilogue
m.list | previous | next
Anxiousness and happiness was eating the both of you alive. Fighting amongst themselves to settle which feeling should take over your whole day.
Things were going alright for Jaemin. He had preparations to distract him like getting flowers from his client (who’s website he finally finished), picking up the food from both places his friends worked at, and debating on where he should hold this little picnic.
As in for you… you had tried watching a movie, cleaned the apartment, and even tried watching the Barca match but without their star players they lost. Again. It’s obvious not even football distracts you from what you could possibly talk to Jaemin about.
You were more nervous about how your relationship with him is so far. Things through messages were sweet and as if nothing happened but that’s only virtually, things are always different in person.
He could be a sweetheart begging you to meet with him but once you two are face to face, what guarantees you that he won’t unleash whatever wrath you think he holds? After all, you've refused to hear him out for weeks (rightfully so).
Nevertheless the only thing left in your mind to distract yourself was to take care of the cats. Yeah, maybe if you take them on a little walk while Jaemin is ready to get you, you’ll be fine. After all spending time with your babies always entertained you (no matter the unprovoked scratches and bites).
After putting on Minino’s harness, you make your way to the apartment next door. Knocking three times as tradition to the rhythm you and Mark had unconsciously assigned to each other through the years.
Being so, the mentioned opened the door with a smile, rubbing his eyes showing he had fallen back asleep after the little group chat discussion about you and his roommate. When he was to open his mouth, Dooie had bolted out the door, the action making Minino kick and scratch you harsh enough to let go of the hold you had on him.
In that instant you cursed yourself for not clipping on the leach to the harness before coming to them. This always happened and none of you ever learned.
“Good afternoon, huh?” Mark remarks, grabbing his keys knowing he had to go after them as well. “Seems so.” You groan with a shaky giggle, pulling him by the arm in order to hurry before they wreck havoc.
“We should buy toddler railings.” He mentions, yawning while struggling to go down the two flights of stairs, your pulling making it dangerous. “They can fit through the bars though.” Bringing him down from that train of thought, Mark frowns rushing behind you. Poor boy, you didn’t give him enough time to put on shoes.
Through the transit of your chase: Mark had multiple pebbles clinging to his feet, you ran out of breath a couple of times considering the cats would go up some building just to jump off when you reach them, and on occasions you both almost fell when leaning down to grab them. In those instances, they sped faster and kicked during the act. These cats really wanted to make you guys suffer just for the hell of it.
That is until they finally halted their spree and purring was all you two heard going up a hill. ’Sneaky little monsters.’ Mark thought to himself; the universe kept showing him cats were smart enough, their minds broader than his.
“Nana?” Your voice broke both of them out of their thoughts. While Mark sported a smile despite his panting, Jaemin wanted to rip his hair out seeing only the plates and cups were out, everything looked a dirty mess and he was disappointed.
He laughed nervously, looking between you and the cats that immediately snuggled in his lap. “Surprise…” The shaky words left his pretty lips showing his sparkling pearly whites.
“I wanted to make it a little special but I see the kitties have other plans.” Dooie sniffed his fingers, the obvious scent of food inside the basket more prominent than before. “Oh you’re so—“ The words wouldn’t leave your throat, an airy giggle left your lips instead.
Seeing him this close again was making your insides churn. You really did miss him and seeing how Minino wouldn’t stop rubbing against his sides made the feeling increase.
Your feelings took over your instincts, crouching down to the blanket he was sitting on top of and making your way to him to take into an embrace. The action alone took both of them by surprise. Mark looked at you two with wide eyes and a smile nodding to Jaemin who didn’t hesitate in wrapping his own arms around you, holding you tight in fear you’ll leave him again.
Mark took that as his cue to leave. He hoped to take the cats with him but the two made no effort to leave the claustrophobic space you two squished them between. Lifting his hand tiresomely, Mark turns back praying that this time his feet won’t suffer what they did earlier.
“I’m sorry.” Jaemin is the first to break the silence, burying his face in the crook of your neck. “For jumping into conclusions and preferring to part ways instead of talking it out.” He wanted nothing more than to kiss your cheek, leaving that sweet action as a form of a caress.
You were the one to separate, a look of confusion plastered on your face. Jaemin doesn’t hesitate in taking your hands into his, still not ready to not hold contact. Squeezing them, he nods to himself. “I overheard you and Mark talk about rejecting someone and I got scared…”
He turns behind him, his grip off you and once his hands find what he searched for, he turns back to you. “I’m also sorry for thinking submerging myself in my job would help but it ended up backfiring.” He laughs, handing you another bouquet of white flowers, this time a small note hidden between them.
A side smile is what you could give him, taking the crisp envelope between your fingers to read what he was trying to say.
‘You crossed my path and I found the paradise I want to stay in. It’s you, only you. The one who gives me the moon, the one to calm my insanity, forever it’s always you.’
Your smile grew reading over the note. They’re obviously song lyrics but it doesn’t matter, he knew what song to use regardless. “You’re a cheat.” A giggle makes its way to his ears, causing him to return it while squeezing your hands again.
“I wouldn’t reject you, Jaemin. You’re really dumb sometimes.” You scoot closer to him, freeing one of your hands to pet Dooie who now found purchase on your lap. “I can be, yeah. I didn’t want to face rejection, I don’t know how to handle it.”
He hesitates, rubbing your knuckles with his thumb. “She was my client, those flowers were for you. She owns the flower shop I get them from. I really don’t want you to think I’d quickly find someone new. I make it so obvious that I only want you, y/n. Always have.”
His eyes softened, body unconsciously getting closer to yours making it more obvious how his eyes sparkled in adoration. “Not always. Pretty sure a few months ago you wanted me gone.” You laugh, rubbing your arm that despite it being spring, you felt cold.
He shakes his head instantly, taking off his own jacket to wrap around your shoulders. “Y/n, I’ve been madly in love with you for the past year. I only went along with your arguments because— well, it’s really cute how your face gets when you’re annoyed.”
His laughter earned him a slap on the shoulder, startling Minino who slept on his lap when he almost fell back. “I’m sorry, you’re really cute when angry.” Jaemin holds to the cat now, rubbing its head while the rumbling of his stomach soothes his lower body.
“Oh you dick! Do you know how many times I wished you got food poisoning because you pissed me off?!” You weren’t entirely angry, just a bit peeved. It did explain why he didn’t start arguments, if anything he only followed up yours with irking responses or questions.
“See! Like that!” He points at you, chuckling in the process of calming himself down. “Whatever…” You roll your eyes at him, sitting beside him now. “A year, though? Might explain why I dreamt of you often.” A cheeky smile appeared on your face causing a crimson blush to spread across his face.
“You’re lucky I like you too.” The chaste kiss he didn’t place on your cheek, you did on his, making that blush spread more. “Y/n…” He whines, hiding his face in his hands, leaving Minino to wake up from his nap again due to the missing warmth.
“I guess we have to work on our communication more.” You nod, petting Dooie who now decided to get off your lap, rubbing herself against your cat. “I got your favorite food from the cafe and the restaurant. Shotaro might have begged Winter to tell him.” Jaemin’s smile only made you feel more warmth within you. He even got his friends involved to help him please you.
“Oh and one last gift.” Behind the wicker picnic basket laid a wrapped box, the blue and silver colors shimmering with the sunlight. It wasn’t too heavy when he handed it to you but it sure caused some excitement.
With nimble fingers, you rip off the pieces of paper and soon enough the tape from the box. Jaemin seemed more excited than you, giggling to himself and to the cats every time you got closer to the prize.
When you finally ripped off the top box and noticed that similar combination of red and white, joy overtook you and you took him into another embrace. A quick one though, your mind was more focused on seeing a jersey that belonged to one of your favorite players.
“I was looking for one not so long ago, how did you know?!” You cheered beside him, pulling it up before you and admiring every detail. It was soft to the touch and smelled great from the softener he must’ve used when washing it after gaining possession.
Jaemin doesn’t hesitate to wrap his arm around you, pulling you closer to him once again. “I knew you liked this guy and I saw it on eBay. Almost ripped my hair out bidding with it against someone.”
He might’ve been ecstatic to know he won but once the gears in your brain turned and you connected the dots which made you realize he was the asshole you had been fighting against for hours, the smile dwindled and your body gained a mind of its own.
“You!” The change in tone made his smile fade, gaining some fear the second he saw you stand on your knees just to pounce on him. It was more of an excuse to be near him but your hands made sure to shake his shoulders causing him to lose his balance and ended up pulling you down with him.
With his hands on your waist and yours on his shoulder, you two stay still for a second. No words left his mouth or yours, the beating of your hearts felt through touches. His eyes kept flitting from yours to your lips, biting his inferior lip. You take notice of this and decide to tease him, squeezing his shoulders and lowering your upper body, making him grow more nervous.
“You want to kiss me so bad.” Your teasing voice makes the blush from earlier appear, Jaemin taking a tighter hold on your waist as the centimeter diminished. “Loser.” Your final words leave your lips, ones you connect with his in a sweet and tender kiss he’s been dreaming about for ages.
Your arms wrap around his neck now, bodies connected, and both of you in pure bliss that things finally led somewhere. It could’ve been left like that but the universe always has plans for you. The second you two got comfortable, the sprinklers went off. A loud laughter right after that made the two of you separate immediately startled by the water and embarrassment.
“Oh thank you, Johanna. Thank you for pushing us, Johanna.” The owner of the laugh spoke up, making her way down the hill after checking around the complex to see if anything needed fixing. She was just glad the right timing was on her side to experience the view before her.
Regardless some forced thank you’s left you two, rushing to get the basket, flowers, and everything else that had been taken out. By this point the cats had been long gone and now they were something else you had to search for.
“You’re the asshole I was fighting with all day for this jersey by the way.” What you had intended on letting him know before the kiss was finally spewed. Jaemin’s smile dropped, looking at you through squinted eyes and remembering all those curses he threw whenever you tried outbidding him.
“Oh you’re sick… Why the hell would you bid a hundred more!” He reproached, taking your wet hand in his. “Because I wanted it badly!” You tried defending yourself, he on the other hand grunted. “Do you think if I file a report they’ll give me the money back?” He jokes, smiling now that this other issue was settled. “You won fair and square, deal with it.” You tease, biting your lower lip while pulling him up towards the building you two shared.
“I planned to listen to the mixtape you made while eating but the sprinklers killed it. Wanna go on a date?” He smiles widely, finally leaving a quick peck on your cheek.
“How about we have it at my place during the match?” He nods, smiling widely at the images that have been created in his brain. “One last thing.”
You hum at his words, stopping in your tracks once you two reach the second flight of stairs. “Would you let me be your boyfriend?” Despite the kisses and words, he was still nervous.
With a wide and tender smile you nod, taking his face into your hands and giving him yet another kiss that he didn’t fail in returning. “Yeah, I’ll grant you that honor.” The both of you laugh in between kisses, holding each other despite the bother of items you both held onto.
After years of bickering and that slow progress into friends, Jaemin and your dreams became a reality. Just like the cats, you two could be happily together.
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