#seventeen seokmin imagine

그는 기회를 놓칠 것이다. He’s gonna miss his chance.

Description: Dokyeom runs a puppy cafe with his friends Wonwoo and Mingyu. Life is calm and uninteresting until a mystery girl appears every morning and makes a connection with the one dog in the cafe who remained unconnected with nearly everyone in the cafe. Who is this mystery girl?
Warnings: NONE
Genre: FLUFF
Word Count: 4.4k

SeventeenMasterlist|Masterlists

It was late morning and Dokyeom had just finished letting the dogs out onto the cafe floor. Wonwoo was busy prepping the cafe counter while Mingyu was pouring out breakfast for the dogs.

After breakfast was served, Mingyu moved to clean out the dogs’ potty area in the back and Dokyeom helped Wonwoo stock the display case. The dogs ran around and played with each other. Some of the smaller dogs ran in the clear tube system they had set up along the front windows. Except for one.

The small dog named Luna sat in the tubing next the door nearly level with the door handle. All Dokyeom could see was the messy light brown fur that covered her back as she sat just staring out the window. Not moving a muscle but he knew that her eyes followed every person and every car that passed by. Customers never really interested her and she sat either in that spot of the one on the other side of the front door daily. The only person who could really capture her attention was Wonwoo but he was usually busy with the cafe during the days so she just sat there.

It was while Dokyeom was looking at Luna that he saw her. And so did many of the other dogs. The dogs started barking and followed as she passed in front of the windows. She looked over at the dogs chasing her and a smile touched her lips.

Most of the dogs were following her from the cafe floor but a few managed to sneak into the tunnels and follow her there. As she walked passed, a small dog just sitting in the tunnels caught her attention.

She paused and looked at the dog with sweet eyes as it looked back at her. Smiling softly, she tapped her finger against the glass and the dog nudged her nose in the same spot.

“Hi.” (y/n) whispered softly, “You’re so cute.” She looked up at the big sign with the name of the establishment written out in separated cursive letters. “Aji’s Cafe.” (y/n) read the name out loud.

She peeked behind the puppy staring at her with large eyes and saw a bunch of other dogs wondering around the cafe. “A dog cafe.” She murmured with awe before turning her attention back to the light brown dog pawing at her through the window. “I’m sorry, I have to go to work now. Bye.” (y/n) gave the dog a tiny apologetic wave before resuming her walk to work.

As she walked away, the tiny little brown fluff ball trotted after her until the dog couldn’t follow anymore.

Wonwoo broke from his morning duties and found Dokyeom staring out the windows. Following his line of sight, he tried to find what Dokyeom was staring at. He couldn’t see anything special so he nudged Dokyeom’s shoulder, “Did you zone out?” He asks.

“No, there was a girl.” Dokyeom shook his head and pointed to where Luna sat at the far side of the window. “Luna even followed her.”

Wonwoo looked back at the window to find what Dokyeom said was true. Luna had moved from her normal spot and he hadn’t even been anywhere near her. “How interesting…” He commented, allowing himself a second of awe before heading into the storage room to grab more straws.
Dokyeom leaned his elbows on the counter and the image of her face appeared in his mind. Mostly, he was stuck on her eyes. Just how soft they were when she was looking at Luna and how a small wave of something hidden washed over her eyes for a second before it vanished. He was intrigued by her and part of him wanted to know more but the other part knew he would probably never see her again.

But the next day, she walked passed again and even stopped to stare at Luna again. However, just like the previous day, she didn’t stay long and didn’t wonder into the cafe. Much to Dokyeom’s dismay.

It happened the next day. And the next. And the next. And the next. After a week, Dokyeom decided to try and catch the mystery girl while she was stopped and ask her why she always stopped.

“What are you going to do?” Mingyu chuckled, “Stand out there all morning until she shows up?”

“Maybe.” Dokyeom stated defiantly while gripping the broom tighter.

“What else would you do?” Wonwoo wondered, drying off the cup that Mingyu had used for his morning pick-me-up.

Dokyeom shrugged, “Go out when she shows up.”

Mingyu burst into laughter and Wonwoo tried to hide his laugh.

“That won’t be odd at all.” Mingyu said, over pronouncing every other word.

Suddenly the dogs started to bark and clammer towards the front windows. The three coworkers turned their heads and as always, the girl was walking passed.

“Huh, she’s earlier than normal.” Wonwoo remarked, glancing at the clock.

Nowadays, instead of just paying attention to Luna, she would look at all the dogs that came to greet her in the windows. Today was no different but she did move slower and gave a couple more seconds of attention to the other dogs. Her smile filled her eyes as she reached her hand out to the window and greeted Luna and Dokyeom was captivated.

“He’s gonna miss his chance.” Mingyu snickered to Wonwoo who elbowed him in the stomach.

While the sentence reached Dokyeom’s ears, it didn’t fully process until a handful of seconds later.

“Oh!” He exclaimed and walked towards the front door with the broom securely in his hand.

As casually as his nervous nerves would let him, he opened the front door and began to sweep the front entrance area. He paused and looked up at her while she was occupied with Luna’s attention. She was dressed simply in jeans and a blouse with a large purse hanging off one shoulder. Her hand was still touching the window and Dokyeom could just barely make out Luna on the other side pawing at her hand.

With a pounding heart, Dokyeom attempted to start a conversation with the mystery girl.

“You know, she never pays attention to anyone like that.” He stated as nonchalantly as he could.

The girl’s head whipped up towards him, somewhat startled that he would be speaking to her.

“It’s a female?” She asked after she deemed him nonthreatening.

“Yeah, her name’s Luna.” Dokyeom said, approaching her. “She usually sits in the window and just stares blankly. Doesn’t really interact with our customers either.”

“She seems very sweet though.” She tilted her head to the side. (y/n) moved her hand to the side slightly and watched in adoration as Luna’s body twisted to follow it.

“She is. To the people she likes.” Dokyeom told her and tapped on the window near (y/n)’s hand but Luna’s attention was solely on (y/n).

“People?” (y/n) repeated a little confused.

Dokyeom nodded towards the inside of the cafe, “She also likes Wonwoo, the one behind the coffee bar.”

(y/n) raised her head up and looked beyond the tunnel system criss-crossing the window. Spotting the male busy loading the coffee beans, she smiled.

“Well, at least one of you can get her out of the window.” She joked and Dokyeom chuckled.

“Do you want to come in?” He asked and gestured towards the door, “You stop by almost everyday but haven’t once come in. I’m sure Luna would love it.”

(Y/n) felt her heart leap into her throat. She hadn’t thought anyone noticed how often she stopped by. Stopping at this cafe every day was her claim to a fairy tale life where somebody might notice her but she knew that no one paid that much attention to anything, especially her. A second later, her heart sank heavily back into place as she rejected his offer.

“I can’t. I have to go to work.” She said sadly and Dokyeom’s expression fell slightly before he picked it up again with a smile.

“That’s okay.” He reassured her, “We’re always here so you should stop by after work or on your day off or something.”

(y/n) nodded. “Yeah, I might.” She gave him a small smile. “Well, I gotta go to work now…” She trailed off, unsure of how to end such a conversation.

“Oh, right, right.” Dokyeom stammered out. “Uh, my name’s Dokyeom, by the way.”

“(y/n).” She informed him, “It was nice to meet you, Dokyeom.” She turned to the window where Luna still sat and leaned closer even though they both knew it wasn’t going to help. “And it was nice to finally know your name, Luna.” She gave Dokyeom one last wave, which he reciprocated, and walked down the street.

As she walked away, (y/n) let out the breath she’d been holding in cause not only was he not annoyed that she always stopped by but he was sweet. Not to mention absolutely adorable.

(y/n) walked away and Luna followed her as far as the edge of the window. Then she stared longingly after (y/n). As did Dokyeom. A warm smile rested on his lips and his heart was fluttering in his heart. He finally knew the mystery girl’s name: (y/n). He thought it was an adorable name and that she, herself, was completely adorable.

A sudden knocking at the window scared Dokyeom half to death. With his defenses up, he looked around for the culprit and found Mingyu by the window, a hand resting in between two levels of tunnel and the other wrapped tightly around his stomach while he shook with the biggest laugh attack.

Dokyeom scowled at his friend and stomped back inside, flinging the door open without an ounce of grace for the hinges.

“Kim. Min. Gyu.” Dokyeom seethed angrily through gritted teeth and turned towards the window where Mingyu stood, still suffering from his laugh attack. “You are dead.”

“It’s not his fault you were transfixed by the girl.” Wonwoo chuckled as he refilled the lids. “But hey, you talked to her!” He praised Dokyeom which wiped the scowl from his face.

“I did.” Dokyeom agreed proudly, leaning the broom against the coffee bar and leaning his own body over the counter.

“So, what’d you talk about?” Wonwoo wondered as Mingyu shuffled over, his eyes still bright with laughter.

“I told her Luna’s name. Asked her to come in. She declined because she had to go to work. But she said she’d try when she doesn’t work.” Dokyeom informed the other two as they listened intently, “We exchanged names and then she left.”

“Simple.” Mingyu nodded slowly, contemplating the information, “I like it.”

“What’s her name?” Wonwoo inquired, raising both eyebrows like the question shouldn’t have needed to been asked.

A smile touched Dokyeom’s lips as he told them her name. “It’s (y/n).”

The next day, (y/n) stopped by again but when she peeked inside the cafe, none of boys she’d seen the last time were in the main cafe area. She had a split second thought that they may have closed down but the dogs running around the cafe were a clear sign that they hadn’t.

The day after that, Dokyeom walked out and talked to her a more while she said hello to Luna. He did it again the day after that and the one after that. It became part of both of their routines. (y/n) would stop in front of the cafe and play with Luna through the window while she waited for Dokyeom’s momentary company. Dokyeom would be outside the cafe the second she appeared at their windows. Though sometimes he’d be in the back of the store and Wonwoo or Mingyu would have to call his name when (y/n) passed by. Wonwoo and Mingyu loved those times because it was absolutely hilarious to watch Dokyeom scramble to get to the front door as fast as possible. It was entertaining but Dokyeom’s race to the front door would often rile up all the dogs into a barking fest so their ears suffered.

“Do you want anything to drink?” Dokyeom asked one day. The question took (y/n) by surprise.

“I don’t think I have time to wait for it…” She said super apologetically because while it would really nice to hop inside for a drink, she couldn’t be late to work.

Dokyeom shook his head, “That’s okay. I was more thinking that if you told me what you wanted, I could have it ready for you when you stop by tomorrow.” He explained.

“How would I pay you for it?” She wondered, enjoying the thought that he had thought a plan like through.

Dokyeom shook his head, again. “You don’t have to pay. You stop by everyday and stop for Luna. That’s enough payment for us.”

“Are you sure?” (y/n) questioned to make sure because she kind of felt bad for not paying.

“Completely sure.” Dokyeom nodded definitively. “What would like to drink tomorrow, (y/n)?” He asked her with bright eyes.

(y/n) giggled, “I’ll just take an Americano.”

“Iced?” He pushed further.

“In this weather?” She gestured up at the sun beating down on their shoulders, “Yes, please.”

“You got it.” Dokyeom memorized her order with a smile.

(y/n) smiled and glanced down at her phone. “Shit, I gotta go. I’ll stop by tomorrow.” She told him and gave Luna one last little wave before she quickly walked away.

Dokyeom managed a small wave before she completely turned around. But even as she walked away, his hand didn’t lower back down until he realized it was starting to go numb from the lack of blood.

“This is coming out of your paycheck.” Wonwoo informed Dokyeom over the espresso machine.

Dokyeom nodded his head quickly, tired of being reminded. “Yeah, yeah, I know. Can you hurry up? She’s going be here any second.”

Wonwoo chuckled and shook his head, “Chill, it’s almost done.”

Dokyeom nervously glanced from the clock to the espresso machine and back to the clock. Hearing the espresso hit the water and ice in the cup, he whipped his around and watched as Wonwoo placed a lid on the cup. Tearing all but the top portion of the plastic off the straw, he stuck the straw in just as (y/n) rounded the corner.

“Wow, she has good timing.” Mingyu muttered, bringing Wonwoo the coffee beans for the day.

Not wanting to waste another second, Dokyeom dashed out the door with the coffee in hand.

“One Iced Americano for the lady.” He announced himself and handed (y/n) the coffee.  

“Thank you.” She smiled while taking it from him and Dokyeom swore his heart exploded.

Boy, did he like (y/n).

A couple days later, Dokyeom was helping Wonwoo at the coffee bar and kept glancing at the windows waiting for (y/n) to stop by so he could talk to her. Luna was waiting too, except she wasn’t as nervous as Dokyeom.

“You’re really going to do it?” Wonwoo asked, throwing a glance at him while he wiped the counter down.

Dokyeom refocused on stocking the macarons, “Yeah, I’m going to. I mean it’s a phone number and I feel like since we’ve been talking every day, it’s only right to exchange numbers, right?”

Wonwoo shrugged, “I’m the wrong person to ask.”

They fell into a silence and as the minutes passed, Dokyeom became antsy. The time when (y/n) would usually appear in front of their cafe passed and Dokyeom had to calm himself.

“Maybe she woke up late.” He reasoned with himself.

But then her work start time came and went.

“Okay, maybe she woke up REALLY late.” He told himself and forced himself to go about his day. But Luna just sat in the window, waiting.

The next day, Dokyeom waited in front of the coffee bar, too nervous to help with the opening chores. Half of his nerves came from worrying if (y/n) would reject his number and the other half worried that she wouldn’t show up again.

(y/n)’s usually time quickly approached and Dokyeom felt his entire body buzzing with anticipation and nervousness. Luna also waited patiently, her eyes scanning the street for any sign of the person she’d come to love.

As time passed and there was no sign of (y/n), Dokyeom felt like his heart and entire body were being dragged into the underworld.

Wonwoo and Mingyu silently went about their morning duties but they couldn’t help glancing sorrowfully at Dokyeom and Luna. Even they were effected by (y/n)’s absence, though they had never actually interacted with her.

2 more days passed and still there was no sign of (y/n). Luna still kept hope and sat obediently at the window, waiting for (y/n) to return. But Dokyeom began to lose hope. He started to believe that she wasn’t coming back and he feared it was because he had said or done something.

“Don’t lose hope, Dokyeom.” Wonwoo tried to encourage his friend Saturday morning while they were releasing the dogs from their kennels.

“It’s pretty obvious she’s not coming back.” Dokyeom muttered, sadness laced in his voice like a vine tangled in a fence.

“Maybe she went on a business trip or something.” Wonwoo offered while opening a large kennel.

Dokyeom shrugged, “Or I scared her off.” His pessimism was a stark contrast to the bubbly and optimistic person Wonwoo had befriended all those years ago.

Sighing, Wonwoo opened Luna’s kennel and scooped her out. She nuzzled into his chest and gave him a lick on the chin. Walking to the doorway, he set Luna down and she trotted right into the tunnel system and planted her butt in the same spot as always.

Dokyeom opened the rest of the kennels on his side and let the dogs run out. A frown had been etched onto his face for days and the only time it went away was when he forced a smile for the customers that stopped in.

Mingyu walked through the doorway with a slightly distressed expression. If Dokyeom squinted, he thought he could see Mingyu’s eye twitching.

“I forgot to refill the food container last night.” He whispered like it was the worst thing to happen on the planet.

“Let’s do that now.” Wonwoo said calmly and began walking further into the back room where the 20 pound bags of dog food were kept. One person could handle it but having two people was obviously much faster.

Outside the cafe, (y/n) stopped just before the cafe windows began with her heart pounding in her throat. She didn’t mean to be absent for so many days and now she didn’t know how they would react if she showed up again.

“Oh, you’ve got to be kidding me.” Wonwoo dropped his head in frustration.

“What?” Mingyu wondered, walking over. “Oh, uh, Dokyeom, add dog food to the list of groceries we have to order.”

This got Dokyeom’s attention and he scrunched his eyebrows together, “We’re completely out?”

“Almost out.” Wonwoo corrected Dokyeom, looked at him, and pointed to the top shelf where the last bag of dog food sat.

“Oh, okay.” Dokyeom said as Mingyu quickly set up the ladder to climb.

Reaching the top, he carefully slides the bag out and into Wonwoo’s awaiting and outstretched hands. Dokyeom was still there… just in case something happened?

Taking a deep breath, (y/n) confidently walked into the cafe and was immediately greeted by a bunch of dogs barking and surrounding her. But the one she wanted to see was a little late as she had to run out of the tunnels to reach (y/n). Picking up Luna, (y/n) allowed her to give a few licks before readjusting her to be nestled in one arm while the other petted the other dogs. Just as she lowered herself to the ground, she heard someone exclaim from the back room and a small commotion.

“We have got to get better at keeping records.” Wonwoo commented as the bag nearly reached his hands.

“Wasn’t my dut- Ah!” Mingyu exclaimed as the bag slipped from his grasp and into Wonwoo’s arms. The sudden weight made Wonwoo stumble and drop to a knee. The corner of the bag snagged on a shelf and started to spill dog food onto the floor.

“Dokyeom, grab it, grab it.” Wonwoo spit out instructions as Mingyu clambered down the ladder. Dokyeom quickly flung into action and grabbed ahold of the torn corner before more food could spill out.

“Well, there goes a solid 2 cups.” Mingyu said and began collecting the fallen food to throw away. All three prepared for the onslaught of dogs rushing in to try and grab some of the fallen food but it never came.

“Where are the dogs?” Dokyeom wondered as Wonwoo rose back to his full height.

“Maybe they didn’t hear the food falling.” Wonwoo offered a reason. “Let’s get the stupid container filled before my arms actually fall off.” He huffed out and Dokyeom agreed still holding onto the torn corner.

Turning into the doorway, Wonwoo and Dokyeom nearly drop the bag of food, along with Dokyeom’s jaw.

(Y/n) sat on the floor, surrounded by nearly all the dogs in the cafe and Luna tucked happily in the crook of her arm. She looked up and noticed the two men standing in the doorway holding onto a big bag of dog food. Wonwoo was holding the majority of the bag and Dokyeom had a hold on a corner and his eyes were wide with shock. Quickly standing up, (y/n) made sure Luna was still comfortable.

“Hi.” She said sheepishly, a warm flush appearing on her cheeks.

“Hi.” Wonwoo was first to greet her until he elbowed Dokyeom in the stomach which got him sputtering out a greeting.

“Hey, hi.” He said and Wonwoo wanted to facepalm himself but (y/n) giggled.

“I, uh, heard some noise back there, are you guys okay?” (y/n) asked, looking slightly worried between the two of them.

“Yeah, yeah.” Dokyeom said, recovering from his shock, “Uh, Mingyu just dropped the bag of dog food into Wonwoo and then the corner snagged and tore and then I had to grab it. Heh.” He eyed the spot where his hand kept the food from spilling out.

“Ah, I see.” (Y/n) nodded as Wonwoo side stepped towards the dog food container, pulling Dokyeom along. She followed but kept a few feet away, not wanting to get too close. “Is Mingyu okay?”

“I’m fine!” Mingyu said appearing in the doorway with his hands cupped together, trying not to drop anymore dog food.

“You haven’t been here for a few days.” Dokyeom pouted once he was relieved of his bag holding duty.

“Yeah…” (y/n) scratched the back of her neck. “Sorry for disappearing like that.”

“Did you have a work thing?” Dokyeom asked, unable to stop his curiosity. “Wonwoo thought you might’ve had something like that.”

(y/n) chewed on her bottom lip, “It wasn’t a business trip.”

“Oh.” Dokyeom’s face fell and he wasn’t able to pick it up like he had the first time they’d met. Fears that he’d scared her away were rushing in and he couldn’t stop them.

“It’s not anything bad.” (y/n) rushed out when she saw his face stay fallen. “The first day I woke up really late and was late to work so I couldn’t stop by. And then the next day I got really sick and couldn’t leave my house.”

“You were sick?” Dokyeom repeated her words, worry for her replacing all the negative thoughts immediately.

She nodded, “It was pretty bad.” She smiled, a bit embarrassed.

“Are you okay?” He asked her, his eyes searching her face for any signs of discomfort.

“I’m fine now. I’m completely fine.” (y/n) reassured him, “I think I caught a bug from work or something.”

Dokyeom sighed in relief and ran a hand through his hair.

(y/n) felt her breath catch in her throat and her heart fluttered like a hummingbird.

Wonwoo finished shoving the dog food bag into the trash before moving to the sink to wash his hands. Mingyu took Wonwoo’s spot next to the newly filled food container and began dishing out the food for the dogs.

“Iced Americano?” He asked (y/n) and looked over his shoulder at her.

She nodded, “You remember?”

“It’s hard to forget when Dokyeom kept rushing me to make one every so often for you.” Wonwoo chuckled and dried his hands.

“It wasn’t that often.” Dokyeom defended himself.

“Yes it was.” Mingyu commented without so much as a glance up.

Wonwoo spotted (y/n) reaching for her bag and quickly stopped her, “This one’s on the house.”

(y/n)’s shoulders fell in defeat. “Oh, come on. You’ve got to let me pay for at least one.”

Wonwoo shook his head, adamant about his position. “You showing up here today should be celebrated, everything considered.”

(y/n) gave Wonwoo a disappointed look but didn’t push the issue further.

“Luna seems happy that you’re here.” Dokyeom commented taking in the dog’s posture in (y/n)’s arms.

“I don’t think I can ever let her go.” (y/n) smiled sheepishly and cuddled the dog closer.

“I don’t think she wants you to.” Dokyeom smiled brightly and the sight warmed (y/n)’s heart.

“One Iced Americano for the lady who swept Luna off her feet.” Wonwoo smiled warmly and placed (y/n)’s drink on the counter.

“Next one, I pay for.” She stated as more of threat and picked up the drink.

“So you’re seriously all better?” Dokyeom asked as they made their way over to a table.

“Yes, I really am okay.” (y/n) nodded and giggled.

“I’m glad.” Dokyeom sighed happily.

“Sorry for disappearing like that though.” She apologized.

Dokyeom shook his head, “No need to apologize. Seriously don’t feel bad.”

“Would’ve been easier if I had asked for your number sooner.” She puckered her lips in reflection.

Dokyeom’s back straightened momentarily and he knew he had to ask before his courage ran back into its cage.

“How about I give you my number now?” He offered, still slightly unsure if she’ll accept.

(y/n)’s bright smile returned as she looked at him, “That’d be fantastic.”

A similar smile broke out onto Dokyeom’s face and (y/n) fully knew that she liked looking at that face.

Dokyeom and (y/n) exchanged numbers and (y/n) spent a few seconds staring at the contact card with Dokyeom’s name written on it. An involuntary giggle escaped her mouth and Dokyeom chuckled at her reaction. He knew he didn’t want that giggle to ever stop.

“So,” (y/n) spoke up and put her phone down on the table, “Tell me about the other doggos in here.”

“With pleasure.” Dokyeom scooted closer and introducing the dogs to (y/n), one by one.

Please read this (W.C.Hotel) if this is the first post of this series that you see.
Warnings: Swearing, Mentions of death
Genre: Angst, Hotel Del Luna AU, Choose your own adventure, SVT x Fem! Reader
Staff: Yong (Spirit General Manager) / Jiwoo (Human General Manager) / Soon Bok (Room Manager) / Mun Hee (Front Desk Receptionist) / Shin (Grim Reaper assigned to Waning Crescent)
Word Count: Ending A - 4.4k / Ending B - 4.2k

W.C.Hotel | Seventeen Masterlist|Masterlists

After Mun Hee runs away from me, I’m left to search for someone who can give me the answers that I want to know. In the lobby I search everywhere for Jiwoo, Yong, or Soon Bok but they’re not around. Deeply exhaling, I begin to search the halls for them seeing as I, stupidly, left my only communication device in the garden. The main floor yields no results, forcing me to search the 100 level.

As I near the 160 rooms, Soon Bok’s aggressive instructor voice reaches my ears. I pick up my walking pace and near the room that she’s in. 168.

“The left side of the corner goes UNDER the right side.” Soon Bok demonstrates with her hands. “No, no, under. UNDER.”

I lean against the door frame and, with amusement, watch her get fed up and take the sheet corner from the employee and fold it herself.

“Under.” She repeats the instruction and rises to full height. Picking up her clipboard again, Soon Bok turns on her heels and nearly jumps out of her shoes when she sees me standing in the doorway. “(y/n)!” The other employees in the room shoot into an upright position at the mention of my name.

I wave a hand at them, dismissing them back to the duties at hand. “I don’t need that. Don’t do that again.” I tell the employees, letting a tiny ounce of annoyance slip in to emphasize my distaste for the attention.

“Can I help you with something?” Soon Bok asks without malice and steps closer to me.

“Mmm,” I hum, “What room did you put Dokyeom in?” I ask, tapping her clipboard.

She glances down for a second, “218.”

“How long is here for?” I continue to ask for information.

“9 days.” Soon Bok states simply.

I nod, “Good to know.” Then I glance behind her at the trying-not-to-be-obvious obvious gazes from the employees, “And I think the manual says left over right, Soon Bok.” I say loud enough for the room to hear.

Soon Bok pushes me out of the room, “(y/n), stop it.”

I let out a short laugh and notice the employees in the room stop moving, shocked that their cold CEO can let out a laugh. Some of their eyes even grow large. Others don’t really know how to process the new information. I, on the other hand, enjoy their confusion immensely.

“Hey!” Soon Bok looks over her shoulders at her mannequin employees, “Get this room ready. And it’s UNDER.” She instructs with an underlying threat that they all understand.

With another small push, I’m standing in the hall and Soon Bok closes the door behind her.

“Will you stop messing with my employees, please?” She pleads, readjusting her clipboard against her body. “At least give them a few months before you pull stunts like that.”

“But where’s the fun in that?” I ask, playing innocent.

“You’re going to confuse them and send this hotel into a downward spiral.” Soon Bok explains, walking away from me.

I quickly catch up to her and match pace. “The Gods would never allow that.” I reason. “When I’m gone, they’ll keep this hotel running swimmingly. And instead of hearing my annoying voice, you’ll get to read instructions off of little notecards left ominously on your office desk.” I say with a cold chill.

Soon Bok just blinks blankly at me before nodding her head to the side, “But I won’t be able to joke with anyone.”

“Mun Hee and Yong will still be here.” I remind her.

“Mun Hee doesn’t understand half of my jokes and Yong is really busy with the rest of the hotel.” She says with a sigh.

“Oh.” I’m at a loss for words.

We reach the elevators and Soon Bok presses the ‘up’ button.

“I’m headed to the 800’s, do you want to come with me?” She inquires, watching the number in the little square above the elevator doors decrease.

I shake my head, “No. I have some champagne to finish in the garden.”

“Alright, enjoy your champagne.” Soon Bok smiles warmly at me as the elevator reaches us.

Now, I watch as the number above the elevator doors increases until it stops on 8. Just one less than the amount of days I have to wait for Dokyeom.

~The Ninth Day~

Thunder booms through my ears, lightening cracks across the dark sky, and rain hurtles at the windows of the conference room. I needed a change of scenery for today’s form signing and decided this was a good, quiet place. My fingers drums against the table as I rest my hands on either side of a stack of boring forms with another stack a little further away. I stare at the pen laying on top of the stack in front of me.

Sighing, I pucker my lips and give into my hotel duties. I pick up the pen and start scanning the top paper.

“And if the blah blah blah creates an un-blah blah blah with the blah…” I mutter under my breath. I fight the urge to roll my eyes.

I finally reach the bottom of the page and a small 'x’ next to a blank line tells me that’s where I need to put my signature. Putting the pen to paper, my muscles pull my signature from memory. Two seconds later, I pull the pen away and reveal the signature that I consider retched but other seem to consider beautiful.

Thunder claps again, this time so close that the walls rumble. I sigh and place the signed paper on top on the other signed papers. Then I work on reading the next one, and it’s a stapled packet.

The door opens quietly but I think nothing of it as it’s probably Yong coming to check up on me. But it’s not Yong’s voice I hear.

I hear giggling. A child’s giggling. Children giggling. And pattering footsteps.

“Hi.” A young girl runs up to my right side with a smile.

“What are you doing?” A young boy asks from my left side.

“Yeah, what are you doing?” Another child asks and as I look around, more children crowd around me.

“Hey, give her some room.” Dokyeom’s voice says to the children from the doorway. “Be polite. Remember what we learned.” The children back away a few steps but stay relatively close by.

I raise my head up and meet his eyes. He smiles brightly with his eyes squinty.

“Sorry, they wanted to come and visit.” Dokyeom says sheepishly, “And I couldn’t say no to that.”

I hum with amusement and look down at the children who all smile up at me with bright smiles. “You can come visit me anyti-”

As I lift my head up to Dokyeom’s, a crack of lightening flashes through the room and I’m left alone. Like I’ve always been. They were never here. My brain just created them and my eyes thought…

I sigh and rub my hands over my eyes. I should’ve known it wasn’t real. I wasn’t allowed to interact with his students but that didn’t mean he couldn’t tell me countless stories about them.

Refocusing, I reread the first section of the stapled packet and trudge my way through the rest of it. On the last page, there’s a spot for me to put my signature.

My hand floats just above the paper when the echo of Dokyoem’s hand guiding mine takes over.

'You may have better cursive than most of my students.’ He chuckles, 'But you’ll never have better cursive than me. Let me show you how it’s done.’

I remember the smirk he had on his face when I glared at him. The ghost of his chest pressed against my back grows more prominent and I can feel his warmth as he guides my hands through the loops and straights of the cursive of my name.

'See?’ Dokyeom’s voice whispers, 'Doesn’t that look so much better?’

I look down at the paper and notice I’ve signed my name in the way that Dokyeom showed me. Something I haven’t done since I left him. Running my hands over the dried ink, a smile full of warm memories grows on my face.

I set the pen down on the table and hold the papers in my hands while resting my elbows on the table. Tilting my head side to side, my eyes trace over the ink and after all these years, I think I finally see the beauty in Dokyeom’s version of my signature. There’s a childish vibe tangling with a chic one. Much like his real personality. It’s why he was such a good teacher. Playful with the students and polite with the parents.

Flipping the packet to the first page, I place it on top of the signed pile with one hand while the other picks the pen back up.

As I near the bottom of the final form, somebody actually knocks against the conference room doors.

“Come in.” I say, while signing the form.

“You’re still signing those?” Jiwoo asks, stepping into the room and I set the pen down.

Looking up at him, I smirk, “Actually I just finished.”

Jiwoo nods, impressed, “I actually thought it would’ve taken you longer.”

“You underestimate the magic in these hands.” I raise my hand and wave my fingers at him.

He laughs out loud, “There’s no denying that you have magic.”

“Do you need anything?” I ask, thinking that not much time has passed since he gave me the forms at nightfall.

“Just your presence in the garden.” Jiwoo says calmly.

“It is not…” I trail off, looking around for a clock but of course, I never set one up in here.

Jiwoo pulls out his phone and shows me the time, “Oh, it is.” He smiles warmly and replaces his phone in his pocket.

I push back from the table and walk to the doors. “I guess the storm screwed up my timing.”

“Well, you can’t see the moon so it makes sense that you lost track of time.” Jiwoo comments.

“The moon doesn’t dictate that.” I argue as I reach him at the doors.

He raises his eyebrows like the answer is obvious, “For you, the moon dictates everything. Including your mood.”

I open my mouth to defend myself but Jiwoo speaks before I can even form a word.

“You know it’s true so don’t even argue. Crescent moons you’re in your best moods. Full moons require 2 bottles of champagne and Blue moons require a minimum of 4 bottles.” He lists off the reasons and I have to admit, it is true. The moon reminds me why I’m here and I retaliate by swinging my moods to the different phases.

I sigh and lower my head in defeat, “Alright, you win. Just be prepared for the next Blue moon, I will not be so kind.” I threaten him.

“If you’re still here.” He points out and then nods his head towards the hallway, “He’s waiting for you.”

My head rises and I happily smile, “I’ll be going then.”

Jiwoo waves goodbye and I make my way through the halls. My feet continue to walk me to my garden while my heartbeat beats harder. By the time I’m a few feet away, I can hear and feel my heartbeat in my ears.

“You are a tree. T. R. E. E.” Dokyeom’s voice trails out from the garden. “A really pretty tree.”

I walk in and find Dokeyom facing the tree with his hands clasped behind his back.

“I think that’s the first compliment it’s gotten in its entire life.” I say while holding back a giggle.

But Dokyeom is startled by my 'sudden’ presence and nearly jumps out of his skin.

“AH!” He screams, jumping to face me. With eyes wide and blinking like a deer in headlights, Dokyeom just stares at me.

I cover my mouth with my hands and try so very hard not to laugh.

“Why would you sneak up on me like that!?” He screeches when he’s collected himself.

“I’m sorry.” I stifle out, really trying not to laugh because I should be feeling kind of guilty but… it’s Dokyeom. “I forgot how easily you scare.”

“Has it really been that long?” Dokyeom pouts.

I lower my hands and smile sweetly, “I guess it has.”

Dokyeom instantly wraps me up in a tight hug and my arms instinctively wraps around his waist, resting snugly against his form.

“I’m sorry for making you wait so long.” He whispers into my ear, all traces of his earlier scare gone.

“I’m the one who should be sorry.” I tell him, glancing over at the bare tree.

“No way.” Dokyeom pulls back and holds me by the shoulders at arms length, “You don’t have to be sorry. I guess neither of us have to be sorry.” He realizes with scrunched eyebrows.

I hold his hands that are still at my shoulders reassuringly, “I guess I won’t be sorry if you won’t be sorry.”

He straightens up and nods, “Fine by me.” Dokyeom then walks behind me and wraps his arms around my shoulders, his chin resting on my shoulder. “Though, you did wait a long time.”

“Dokyeom.” I warn him and turn my head to glance at him.

“Just saying.” He mumbles through a pout, then he wonders, “Where did you go?”

“Back here.” I tell him and hang my hands from his arms.

“Just here?” Dokyeom wonders, looking around the garden.

“Just here.” I confirm. “Someone has to run this hotel.”

“Who’s going to run it when you leave?” He asks, giving me a small squeeze.

I shrug, “Whoever the Gods pick.”

“Ah, I see.” Dokyeom says softly.

I tap his arms to release me and begin to walk forward towards the bench. Dokyeom follows but keeps his arms wrapped around me.

“You know that Yong lady?” He asks as we settle onto the bench.

I chuckle, “Yes, I know her.”

“She reminds me of you.” Dokyeom says.

“How so?” I question.

“Well,” He clears his throat, “She’s got this like cool, unbothered aura around her but when you get her talking, I can sense she’s softer and more relaxed. Like you. And, and, I told her a joke once and she laughed but then a guest arrived and it was like someone flipped a switch. She changed her resolve so fast.” He explains.

“This is a hotel.” I remind him, “We have to be on our best behaviors for the guests.”

“We? I never saw you out on the floor though.” Dokyeom comments innocently.

I give him a questioning look.

He readjusts his posture so he’s angled towards me, “In the nine days I was here, I never really saw you out in the hotel helping guests.”

“I, I don’t really do that work.” I stutter. “I’m usually in my office… or here.” I nod towards the tree.

“So then 'they.’” Dokyeom giggles.

“What?” I ask.

“They have to be on their best behaviors for the guests.” He corrects my earlier statement. “Since you’re in your office or here.”

“No, I mean, yes, but I occasionally help guests too.” I defend myself, stumbling over my words a bit.

“Wish I could’ve seen it.” He puckers his lips.

I roll my eyes before saying, “You know what I wish I could’ve seen?”

Dokyeom looks over at me with curiosity, “What?”

“You teaching.” I nod at him with a small smile.

“Why?” He asks, his eyebrows scrunching together.

I shrug, “Why not? You always talked about how much you loved it and you were always going on and on about your students. So I’ve always wanted to see you in your element.”

“You remember all of those?” Dokyeom wonders, “Like all the stories I told you?”

“Maybe not all of them, but a good majority.” I tell him, “I never forgot them.”

“Even with 12 others you didn’t forget them?” He asks, looking at the bare tree.

I smile and link my arm with his, “You’re a little difficult to forget.”

“I am, aren’t I?” Dokyeom looks back with a playful smirk. I laugh at his ability to switch moods so quickly.

Pulling him closer, it’s now my turn to rest my chin on his shoulder. “Will you tell me more?” I ask, batting my eyes at him.

“More stories?” He asks and I nod. “There’s not really much to tell.”

“I still want to know.” I tell him and his shoulders relax while he inhales deeply.

“Alright, let’s see.” Dokyeom grabs my hand and laces his fingers through mine. “I will say that it was a bit difficult after you left.”

“A bit?” I question his wording.

“Okay, extremely.” He corrects himself, “But I couldn’t really show it in front of my young students. I kept teaching though, for a lot of years. When I retired, I think I was the teacher highest number of years at the school. My kids were nagging at me for years to retire because they could take care of me and their mother but I guess I was kind of stubborn.” He chuckles, “Eventually I left the teaching world though.”

“You married?” I ask with relief, “And had kids?”

Dokyeom nods happily, “I did. My relationship with my wife took some years but then the kids came quickly.”

“How many did you have?” I question, pressing his arm tighter into my chest.

“3 kiddos.” He says proudly, “My first son grew up to be a chef. My daughter went on to be a doctor. And my youngest son followed my middle child, he became a doctor.”

“You must’ve been proud. Having children who could support you once you retired.” I sigh happily that his children lived comfortable lives.

“I was. I am.” Dokyeom says and nods. “Though I never understood how my oldest became a chef. He was always so clumsy and then he went on to choose the career with some pretty big and sharp knives.”

“He didn’t every hurt himself, did he?” I ask, suddenly worried for a soul I had only ever seen from a distance.

Dokyeom shakes his head, “A few knicks here and there but no, he was never seriously injured from his job. His silliness did cost him a few bruises though.”

“Oh no.” I breath out but Dokyeom simply laughs.

“Like once, he was playing with my daughter’s daughter and somehow got his feet tangled in her toys and face planted onto the floor.” Dokyeom recalls, “My youngest son gave him shit about it for weeks. The poor kid couldn’t live it down until the next time he clutzed up.”

I let out a breathy chuckle and he continues with stories.

“My daughter was so aggressive towards my oldest sun but she was an absolute protective angel to my youngest son.” He say with a smile. “But my youngest would always try to combat it and protect her from any and all things dangerous. Including her future husband.” Dokyeom suddenly points a figure at me, “And no, I did not tell him to do it.”

I raise my free hand up in the air, “I wasn’t going to ask.” I say with a giggle.

He narrows his eyes at me, “But you were thinking it.”

My eyebrows lift slightly. “Maybe.”

Dokyeom barks out a small laugh and his eyes sparkle with delight. Just like they did back then when I could pull laughter from him like a magician pulls the scarf from his sleeve. With ease.

“Were there any more stories from your teaching?” I ask, “Those were always my favorite.”

“That I do remember.” Dokyeom says and squeezes my hand. “Mmm, let’s see.” He thinks for a couple seconds before telling the story of a school picnic that somehow ended in a large water fight.

I listen in awe and wonder as he retells the tales of his classroom where everything from stuttering presentations to wild test answers were seen. He tells me about how some single parents were super, super nice to him and I have to point out that I’m sure they had some other motive. Dokyeom, of course, doesn’t believe me until I point out that the super, super nice single parents were usually mothers. His face of realization is pure gold and I memorize it in a flash, not wanting to forget it.

From school stories, we move to stories of his household. The quiet years when it was just him and his wife to the chaos of raising three kids. He vividly remembers when his daughter went to her first school dance and how fast his heart was beating because his precious princess was growing up. Dokyeom swears he was not that protective but his sons were telling everyone about his 'over’-protectiveness.

Dokyeom says he did a lot after he retired and his stories certainly prove it. He has stories from his simple life, from his experience with grandchildren, and from the outings he had with his friends as they all aged together.

Throughout all the stories, Dokyeom’s warm smile never fades and I hold onto that warmth, even when the sun’s warmth begins to disappear below the horizon.

“I hope it’s going to be warm.” Dokyeom shivers and presses closer to me.

“It will be.” I say softly. “It’s simply perfect.”

“Do you think any of my students will be there?” He wonders, staring at the chrysanthemums sitting at the base of the bare tree.

I run a hand through his hair, “Maybe. Depends on how many lives the Gods gave them.”

“I hope none of them are there yet.” He wishes, “They all deserved to live many, many lives.”

“I’m sure they lived a great many.” I tell him, “After all, they crossed paths with you.”

“They did, didn’t they?” Dokyeom lets the thought lift his spirits a bit. “Will you walk with me?” He asks, gripping my hand tighter.

“Of course. I will go as far as I can go but I will go with you.” I reassure him.

He nods and we stand up together. With my hand wrapped securely with his, we walk out of the garden. One foot in front of the other and I feel like each step gets heavier and heavier the closer we get.

“You won’t forget, will you?” Dokyeom asks but doesn’t look at me. Instead he looks straight ahead with his head held high.

“Forget what?” I ask, watching his face closely.

“That I have a mole on my left cheek.” He lists off the items he doesn’t want me to forget, “That I’m afraid of lady bugs. That I’m a movie nerd. That you can’t be trusted with the directions because that one time you got us lost for 3 hours. That I still remember the night you tried to surprise me for my birthday but you tripped over your own feet and spoiled it. That I was one of the 13. And that I love you.”

We stop in front of the departures door as he finishes. I turn to him and lift the corners of my lips in a small smile.

“I won’t forget.” I tell him, “And that means you also can’t forget that I love you.”

Dokyeom gives a single curt nod, “I would never.” He grabs the door handle and swings the door open, “Wow, the sun sets fast.” He comments at the darkened sky.

“She’s got places to be.” I joke and step out, “And I like the moon better anyway.”

“Everyone always told me I was like the sun,” Dokyeom says, “But secretly, I always did like the moon better.”

“I do remember you telling me that.” I say as we get closer to Shin and the waiting car.

“February 18th.” Dokyeom blurts out suddenly.

“Your birthday…” I trail off in confusion.

He nods, “That’s the one thing you need to remember. You can forget the others if you can’t remember them but please remember my birthday.”

“I remember all 13 birthdays.” I grab both of his hands in comfort, “I never forget birthdays.”

Dokyeom presses his lips together, “Just, just make sure you eat an apple on my birthday.”

“An appl- why?” I’m taken aback at his request.

“You know,” He looks at me with wide eyes, “Apples are things you give to teachers and I was a teacher so you should eat an apple every year on my birthday. To remember your teacher.”

I glance over at Shin and he also has a look of confusion, though not as obvious as mine. “I-”

Dokyeom giggles, “I was joking.”

My confusion dissipates and a small smile reaches my face. I reach out and cup his cheek in my hand, “I’m going to miss you. You and your jokes.”

He grabs my hand and presses a kiss into my palm, “I’m going to miss you, too.” Dokyeom then pulls me into a tight hug and nuzzles his face into my neck.

I close my eyes and breath in his comforting scent. The one that could always settle whatever storm the Gods had brewed up. The one that would wrap around me on the coldest of days.

All too soon, Dokyeom pulls away and presses a kiss onto my lips. Then he pulls away completely.

“I love you, (y/n).” He says confidently, not caring who may or may not hear.

“I love you, Dokyeom.” I smile and wrap my arms around my waist.

Dokyeom smiles happily and walks to the car. Shin waits until every last bit of him is inside the car before he definitively shuts the door. The car begins to drive away and in the back seat, Dokyeom turns around and waves at me. I raise an arm and wave back, hoping he can’t see the tears filled with sadness that line my eyes.

Only when the car is completely swallowed by the forest fog do I lower my hand and replace it at my waist. It is then that a white chrysanthemum waves its final goodbye before withering away.

I wait at the forest’s edge for a few more minutes and let the tears fall. But the hotel’s glow grows bigger and I know the hotel is in full swing. Which means I have more work to do and more loves to wait for.

Return to the Navigation Page (Waning Crescent Hotel)to choose the next guest.

“What’s the first thing you’re going to do on the other side?” Dokyeom asks, looking towards the setting sun.

I shrug, “I honestly have no idea. What are you going to do?” I throw the question back at him.

“I’m going to try,” He emphasizes 'try,’ “To find you and win you over.”

I giggle, “You might just succeed.”

Dokyeom hops onto his feet, “Then let’s go test this theory.” I stand up next to him and he grabs my hand.

“Not just yet.” I tap the top of his hand with my free hand, “I have to say goodbye to my people first. They’re technically my family.”

“Of course. I always knew they were close to you but I never realized how close.” Dokyeom says thoughtfully.

“It’s hard to know when you didn’t have the whole story.” I tell him with a knowing smile.

We walk hand in hand to the lobby where Yong, Mun Hee, Soon Bok, and Jiwoo stand solemnly.

“So this is it?” Mun Hee asks with tears in his eyes. “This is the day you leave us?”

I wrap him up in a hug, only a tiny bit annoyed that he’s being so sappy. “Maybe I’ll get punished again and be back here by the end of the year.” I try to joke but Mun Hee abruptly pushes back from me.

“Don’t you dare say that. You better not return here.” He says angrily through his tears.

I chuckle, “I won’t come back. I promise.”

Turning to Soon Bok, I thank her for her service and her amazing work. Something I never did and should’ve done more.

Next onto Jiwoo. I also thank him for his and his entire family’s service then I unclip the bracelet that has held him to this place.

“When you leave today, you won’t be able to find this place again.” I inform him, “I hope that you’ll be able to go and live your life happily.”

Jiwoo nods, “Thank you for letting me work with you. I won’t ever forget you.”

I smile sadly, “You will. But thank you.”

Finally I reach Yong who is sniffling and trying so very hard not cry.

“You’d think after all these years of waiting that I’d be prepared for this day.” She says through sniffles.

“Thank you, Yong.” I rests my hands on her shoulders, “For everything. Thank you.”

With lips pursed together, she leans forward and wraps me in an unexpected hug. But I soon wrap my arms around her and squeeze her tightly.

We pull apart after a couple seconds and I wipe the few tears that have escaped from her eyes.

“Keep this hotel running beautifully.” I tell her before Dokyeom grabs my hand again.

With final waves of goodbye, Dokyeom and I walk out to the foggy forest that will take us to our resting place.

At the edge of the forest, Shin stands next to an idling car, a somber look on his face.

“(y/n).” He says when we reach him, “It has been an honor working with you. I wish you both a peaceful rest.” Shin bows his head and I pat his arm.

“The honor was mine.” I tell him with a smile. Now the tears start to line my eyes as the realization fully sets in.

I’m free. I served my years of punishment and now I’m free to let my soul rest.

I turn back towards the hotel and look up to the top where the rooftop patio is outlined with bright string lights. Then to the mid floors where random room lights are turned on, some guests staying in while others opting to experience the hotel’s many services. Then to grand base where guests would be milling around, waiting their turns to leave this world.

“(y/n)?” Dokyeom softly asks pulling my attention to where he sits just inside the car, “Are you ready?”

I take one last quick look at the hotel before turning away from it. “Yeah, I’m ready. Let’s go.”

I lower myself into the car and Shin securely closes the door after I am completely inside. As the car begins to drive forward, Dokyeom securely grabs my hand and I let his warmth guide me towards our final destination.

In the garden, the final chrysanthemum withers and dies so that no more stand at the base of the bare tree.

Description: It’s finals week and you drag them to the library for a study date.
Warnings: Swearing
Genre: Fluff

SeventeenMasterlist|Masterlists

Jeonghan

You’re just finishing up the first assignment of the day, all-be-it a small one, when Jeonghan shows up (late). Sweatpants and an oversized shirt hangs from his body and drips with his desire to be back in his bed.

“You are going to pay for this.” Jeonghan mumbles and drops his backpack onto the table, causing a few people nearby to look over at the loud noise. 

You give him the sweetest smile and slowly shut your textbook, “But you’re grades are going to call me a god when the week’s over.” You prepare to dive into it because not even his good looks can distract you from your grades goal.

Scoffing and rolling his eyes, Jeonghan unceremoniously drops himself in the chair opposite you. “I highly doubt that.” He says and grudgingly drags his backpack into the empty chair next to him.

You pull out a notebook and opened your laptop to find the practice test your professor graciously gave out. “Take this practice test with me. Come on, you’ll be grateful for it later.”

Jeonghan crosses his arms over his chest and pouts while just starting at me. After a few seconds, he tosses his arms into the air, sits up properly, and then opens his backpack to pull out his school supplies. “Don’t expect me to be super focused like you are.”

You smile in satisfaction that A) you got him out of his bed and B) you got him studying. But he isn’t going to make it easy. He never does. And today is no different.

Halfway through the practice test, he’s drawing doodles in the margins of his notebook and then asks for your opinion on the doodles. 20 minutes later, when you’ve moved onto a different subject, he’s scrolling through his phone. And 15 minutes after that, he’s using his eraser as a hockey puck and his pens as hockey sticks to play a game of hockey that occasionally has the eraser interrupting your studying. Jeonghan giggles when you flick the eraser back at him.

“Come on, let’s just go back to my room.” Jeonghan bargains, resting his chin on the table and looking at you with pouty eyes, “I can lay in bed and you can study at my desk. It’s a win-win!” 

Joshua

“Do we need anything else?” Joshua looks around the table. You’ve set up your laptops, notebooks, pencil cases, and drinks according to your personal studying style, reading for the study session that’s about to commence. 

You shake your head, “Might need sustenance later, but we can deal with that when we get there.”

Joshua nods in agreement before he dives deep into his textbook and you do the same. 

A handful of minutes later, you find yourself mindlessly twirling your pen in your hands and staring at Joshua as he scratches his head and tries to read his professors awful handwriting. He feels your eyes on him and glances at you, catching you red handed.

“Already giving up?” Joshua questions and peers down at your notes.

“Distracted.” You correct with a smirk before lowering your gaze again.

When you both reach the subject you’re in class together for, you decide to quiz each other to find out what you each need to work on. 

“Okay, this one’s tricky.” You peer at the flashcard in your hands before flicking your eyes up at him.

Joshua breathes out in preparation for the “difficult” question and you wait a couple more seconds to show him the flashcard to add to the suspense. 

“Oh, would you just show me the card already.” Joshua whines with a laugh mixed in.

You laugh along and give up on keeping him in suspense. Showing him the card he reads the card, squints and reads the card, then tilts his head to the side and just stares at the flashcard. 

“Do you know it?” You question him.

Joshua puckers his lips and shakes his head, “I have no idea what it is.” 

Woozi/Jihoon

“I’m stealing your highlighter again.” Woozi says, more mumbles, as he reaches across the table for your green highlighter. 

“Uh huh.” You answer without words as you scroll down to another TikTok video. You are taking a break from studying with a well earned 5-minute-turned-into-20-minutes break. 

Woozi rolls the highlighter back over to your side and you decide you should at least try to get some work done on a group project before you completely give up the efforts to study. 

“What’s another word for ‘change’?” You ask Woozi as you proofread another group member’s section of the project.

“Why?” Woozi looks up at you in confusion.

“Because this person used ‘change’ like 600 times and it feels very very redundant.” You explain, “Like I feel like we could make this a drinking game. Something like take a chug every time the word ‘change’ appears.”

“We’d get drunk.” Woozi states the obvious and raises an eyebrow at you.

You point a finger at him with a knowing smile, “Exactly.”

“Oh gosh.” Woozi squeezes his eyes shut and giggles. “You’re already thinking about drinking? Finals week hasn’t even started yet.”

“It feels like it started months ago.” You joke with an eye roll, “I’ve been prepared for the post semester drunkness for AGES.”

Woozi shakes his head and turns the page in his notebook, “Adjust, modify, switch, revise. Uh…” He trails off in thought.

“What?” You ask, wondering why he’s saying random words.

“Synonyms for change.” Woozi reiterates your earlier request. “Oh, differ. And that’s all I got.” 

“Oh, right. Thank you.” You quickly jot down the words in the margin of your notebook. “You still sure we can’t make this a drinking game?”

Dokyeom/Seokmin

The math problem staring up at you without giving you any hints at what the answer could be or how to solve for the answer. It’s like it’s mocking you with its numbers and letters gathered in that one particular spot on the screen. 

“Curse you math.” You grumble and open to a fresh page to restart your attempt at solving the problem. 

“What problem are you on?” Dokyeom asks and leans over the table to peer at your laptop.

“This one.” You turn the screen so he can get a better look. 

“Ooooh, yeahhhhh.” Dokyeom drags out the words as if he’s thinking about how he solved them. Then he pops his lips, “Yeah, I haven’t gotten to that one yet.”

You muffle a chuckle and turn the screen back to face you, “Thanks, Kyeomie.” 

“Did you try starting with the theorem we learned last week?” He offers a suggestion while you busy yourself with the nth attempt of solving it.

“Yeah, I did, but it just led me in a circle over and over again.” You tell him, “Didn’t work.”

“Hmm.” Dokyeom leans his chin in his hand in thought but you pay no attention to him. That is until he clears his throat to force your attention to him.

You flicker your eyes upwards for a second before double taking and a laugh bubbles in your throat. “What-?”

“I’ve got my thinking glasses on.” Dokyeom states seriously with three pairs of glasses sitting on his face. 

“Where’d you get all those anyway?” You ask, laughing at his simple antics.

“One of them is mine, one is Minghao’s that he left in my bag, and the last pair are yours.” He explains and your hands fly to your face. No wonder your eyes were starting to feel tired. You’d been staring at your screen without your blue light glasses on. And now they are on Dokyeom’s face, assisting him in thinking.

Seungkwan

“Pencils?” “Check. Laptop AND chargers?” “Check. Notebooks?” “Check.”

“Fuzzy noise canceling headphones?” Seungkwan lists off the next item and pulls just that out of his bag.

“Fuzzy noi- what?” You look up from your backpack and see the headphones in Seungkwan’s hands. “Why do you need those?”

“It’s finals week, and I need to focus.” He waves the headphones at you, “And since SOMEONE made me come to the library, I need these so I don’t get distracted from the noise.”

You widen your eyes and go back to organizing your study supplies, “Oh-kay.” You definitely didn’t find this weird… at all….

“Judge all you want.” Seungkwan says, a-matter-a-factly, “These babies work wonders.”

You give him a half hearted nod and start your studying. He follows suit and places his earbuds on before settling the fuzzy headphones over his ears. Throughout your study session, friends of yours come up to you two and have small chats. And each time, Seungkwan is forced to take off his fuzzy headphones to be apart of the conversations with his friends.

By the 20th time, Seungkwan is annoyed and you can read the annoyance on his face like it’s a kindergartener’s book. Your friend bids you goodbye before leaving the table side and then Seungkwan lets out a sighed groan.

“How are those headphones working out for you?” You ask, trying to stifle a laugh.

“They’re working fantastic when I have them on. I just wished people would stop coming up to me.” Seungkwan whines, “I mean what part of fuzzy pink noise cancelling headphones says ‘please come talk to me while my head in buried in my notes’?” 

You smirk and joke, “I’m guessing it’s the little eyelids and eyelashes stitched onto them.” You nod towards the sides and his lips twitch in distaste at your joke.