Archive of Our Own

“And… It's official! We have our own shop.” Hueningkai says, beaming as she flips the ‘closed' sign on the door to indicate that the shop is now open. Taehyun stares for a quick moment, taking in her smiling features. They want to take a picture.

Stepping back a bit, they take out their digital camera, and snap a photo of the beaming girl in front of the shop. Their shop.

Hueningkai doesn't notice.

“Yeah..” They sigh out. “It's ours.” The corners of their mouth tilt up the slightest bit as they step back next to her.

Opening a flower shop with their best friend, who they may or may not have a crush on, wasn't quite on Taehyun's list of things to do before they pass. Yet, here they were. 

Taehyun had always been weak when it came to Hueningkai, they could never deny her anything if it was in their control.

Not the countless times she had asked them to play dolls during recess, not when she nervously asked them to sneak to the rooftop during middle school lunch breaks, not when she had asked them to be her date for senior prom, not when she begged them to bleach and dye her hair pink for her, and certainly not when she had asked them to be the co-owner of her dream business a few months back.

The two have known each other since elementary school. Hueningkai’s swing was stolen from her on the playground and Taehyun had come to her rescue, and they've been hovering over the younger one since. They were the one to help her up whenever she fell in the playground or when she'd come down with a fever. Back when her Korean was still rusty, she'd struggle to understand her studies, Taehyun would be the one to explain everything to her in the simplest korean they could muster.

Though, it was never one-sided.

Hueningkai was more quiet with her aid. She had been the first to notice when Taehyun started pulling away from everyone, distancing themself and putting up walls. She didn't know what was happening then, yet she still helped. She had stayed, even when Taehyun tried time and time again to push her away. She would go back to them every single time. That was exactly what they had needed at the time. Someone to stay.

Eventually, after weeks of struggling alone, Taehyun broke in her arms. They had told her everything on a particularly difficult night, how distant they felt from their own body, how they started feeling foreign in their own skin, how they felt like breaking down as soon as someone referred to them as a woman or girl.

Hueningkai had held them through their tears, let them cry out till all the fight left in them vanished and their body gave out. She had laid them down in her bed, ever so gently, and left them there to grab her phone and walk out of the room, dialing the only person she could think of.

“Hueningie?” Her voice came through, a bit raspy.

“Jun.. Hi” She hadn't really thought of what to say to her, how to explain the situation. She'd dialled their number and hit the call button without any further thought.

“Is everything alright? You never call.”

Hueningkai winces, a pang of guilt rushes through her. She knew she ought to call them more.

“Yeah uhm.. I'm okay, everything's fine.. sorta.” She pauses for a moment, trying to put her thoughts into words.

Yeonjun hums. Not rushing, listening.

“Oppa, you.. you've told me how you, before i mean, uhm.. you felt like you weren't.. in the right body? You said that, right?”

Yeonjun hums again, recalling their coming out a few years ago. “Yeah, that's right. What, are you questioning your gender, Hueningie? Need some help from the gender god herself?” It’s said in a joking manner, clearly trying to ease up Hueningkai's nerves.

She thinks it would definitely work if the situation was actually about her. “Yeah, something like that.. Unnie, how did you figure everything out?”

Taehyun had woken up the next day surrounded by warmth, whether it was from the sheets around them, the big body clinging onto them, or the butterflies fluttering around their heart, they still don't know.

Hueningkai woke up about an hour later, greeting them and getting up to make breakfast for the two. That's when she'd told Taehyun all the advice Yeonjun gave her the night before, rattling off possible reasons and labels.

They'd spent that entire morning researching all things gender together. Hueningkai had helped them figure out and, over time, accept their identity, and that's something Taehyun thinks they could never repay.

“When do you think we'll get our first customer?” Hueningkai asks excitedly, bouncing on her heels.

“I don't know ‘ningie. Wanna make a bet?” Taehyun responds, cheeky.

“Hell yeah.” She responds immediately. “I say… An hour? An hour and a half, maybe?”

Taehyun scoffs, “I say half an hour.” They say assertively, earning a gasp in response.

“30 Minutes?! You really think we'll get someone that soon?” She says. Half genuinely curious, half mocking.

She gets a firm nod of a head in response. “Yeah. I mean, humans are curious by nature, there's gotta be someone that'll pass by and notice that the shop is new. They'll probably come in and check it out, no?”

Taehyun doesn't fully believe what's coming out of their mouth. Yet, they say it confidently enough to convince Hueningkai that it's true.

Coincidentally, someone does walk in about 20 minutes later, shocking both Hueningkai and Taehyun.

It's a very tall, -like, taller than Hueningkai tall- sweet looking girl. She has the softest features, long eyelashes and full, rosy cheeks. There are round wireframed glasses at the tip of her button nose and her long, black hair is adorning her exposed back.

She leaves Taehyun a bit breathless. They kind of forget to greet her. Thankfully, Hueningkai quickly steps in to save the two of them.

“Hi! Welcome to Sanctuary, how can we help you?” She says cheerfully.

Taehyun knows it isn't an act, not just a ‘customer service’ voice. The girl has been buzzing with excitement since she woke them up at 4 in the morning. They had only slightly regretted giving her the passcode to their door at that moment.

The newcomer smiles softly (Taehyun's knees nearly give out at the sight of her dimples). She speaks in an even softer voice. “Uh hi, I'm not really looking for anything specific. I was just passing by and noticed that you guys finally opened so I wanted to take a look inside, if that's okay..?” She seemed a bit nervous, awkward even.

They can't have that.

“That's more than okay! Actually, we were planning on handing out free roses to our first 50 customers!” Taehyun spits out without much thought other than comforting the woman standing in front of them.

Hueningkai whips her head towards them. They had not discussed doing that beforehand.

“Oh! really? Must be my lucky day then.” The woman smiles widely, and Taehyun thinks that reaction is worth the lie they told.

While the woman looks around the store, Hueningkai snags Taehyun behind the counter by the arm, making sure they're out of earshot.

“When exactly did we agree on giving out free roses?!” She says in panic.

Taehyun reddens, embarrassed. “I'm sorry! I panicked! You know I'm not good with people.” They give her a tiny pout to add on to the effect, which seems to work well enough because she lets them off with only a weird look.

The two make their way back to the woman, who is now looking at their collection of peonies and hydrangeas.

“Found anything you like?” Hueningkai startles the poor girl, making her flinch slightly.

She turns to the pair with a cheeky smile. “Ahh, I really like these hydrangeas. They're so pretty.” Then, quieter. “I don't really have anyone to give them to, though.”

It doesn't seem like they were meant to hear it. Her cheeks flush a pretty baby pink as she looks down at her fidgeting hands, and Taehyun can't fathom how a girl this pretty doesn't have someone in her life.

“That's totally okay!! You could get them for yourself if you like them.” Hueningkai says, clearly trying to ease the girl’s embarrassment.

It doesn't seem to work though, the girl's cheeks only get darker.

“Maybe another day…” She mumbles, unable to look up at them.

“Maybe! You'll still get your rose today! Would you like to come pick out a colour?” Taehyun speaks up after a long moment of silence.

𓂃˖˳·˖ ִֶָ ⋆🌷͙⋆ ִֶָ˖·˳˖𓂃 ִֶָ

Staring at the woman’s back as she walks out of the store, Taehyun feels dread flowing through them, knowing what conversation they're about to have with their best friend.

“What the hell was that?!” Hueningkai practically yells in their ear as soon as the door closes behind their -very lovely- customer. “Free roses? Really? Why would you say that?”

Taehyun sighs, not looking at her. “Listen she was just, I don't know, she seemed so nervous I wanted to make her feel better.”

They glance up, just for second, before immediately looking down and nipping at the one of the rings around their bottom lip after seeing the disapproving look plastered on their Hueningkai's face.

“So you want her?” Hueningkai teases, seemingly leaving no room for argument.

“What!? No! How did you get that from what I said?! I was just trying to be a good owner.” Taehyun jumps to defend themself.

Hueningkai lets out a giggle at their reaction. “I'm kidding, Tyunie. She is very cute, though.” She says with a sly smile.

“Hueningie, for the love of god. We saw her for all of 10 minutes. Don't make this weird.” Taehyun tries and hopes their voice doesn't betray how fast their heart is beating.

Taehyun has never felt like this, at least never this fast. They've only ever liked Hueningkai, which came after years of friendship and seeing each other almost daily. Liking someone from the first encounter with them is not how Taehyun is. They don't have crushes. And especially not on people they don't even know the names of. That's just not who they are.

So.. why are they feeling like this from the mere sight of a pretty girl?

Something inside Taehyun tries to convince them that they're somehow betraying Hueningkai. They quickly push it away. Hueningkai isn't theirs. They can have crushes on other people, they'll never get a chance with her anyway. What's the point of dwelling on an almost 6-year-old crush that will lead to nothing.

“I'm not making it weird!! You can't deny that she was really pretty, you were practically drooling over her.” Hueningkai giggles again, which pulls out a reluctant smile from Taehyun.

“She was very pretty, yes. But that doesn't mean I want her. I don't even know her name, neither do you.” They remind the enthusiastic girl.

“Doesn't matter, I think you have a chance. She was definitely checking you out!!” She says, hitting Taehyun's exposed arm lightly, making them raise their eyebrow in question.

“She was? I didn't notice.” Taehyun thinks that if either of them were worth staring at, it definitely wouldn't be them.

“Didn't think so.” Hueningkai says with a knowing smile. “You could barely form coherent sentences in front of her.”

Taehyun is used to her teasing, but this feels different, scary even. Maybe it's because Taehyun hasn't figured out their feelings about the whole situation yet. They just force out a smile and hope that it's enough to convince the girl in front of them.

𓂃˖˳·˖ ִֶָ ⋆🌷͙⋆ ִֶָ˖·˳˖𓂃 ִֶָ

Hueningkai barges back into the store after her lunch break. “You will not believe who works at Rabbit hole, that really cool bakery down the street.” Ah, so that's what the place is called. Taehyun had spotted it a while ago but they'd never looked close enough to actually read the sign displaying the bakery's name.

“Soobin!!” Hueningkai says immediately after, leaving no room for an actual answer from Taehyun.

“And I'm supposed to know who that is..?” Taehyun says, tilting their head slightly. They rack through their brain, trying to remember a Soobin.

“It's the girl that came in a few days ago! The really pretty one!!” She answers excitedly. “She gave me a free cupcake and a muffin for you! She said it's to pay us back for the rose!”

Taehyun's stomach flips at the sight of her smile. They've been on the receiving end of that same smile for more than a decade now, yet it never fails to make them feel dizzy.

“She did? That's so nice of her.” They smile lightly, taking the paper bag Hueningkai hands them, peeking inside to see a blueberry muffin.

Their favourite.

Fuck.

“Thank you, ‘ningie”

Hueningkai saunters behind them, wrapping her arms around their shoulders, resting her head on their shoulder. “Try it, try it!! Her cupcake was the most delightful thing I've ever had!! I bet the muffin's no different.” She's speaking into their ear as they take a bite out of the muffin, all but moaning at the taste.

“Oh my god. This is the most delightful thing I've ever had” Their voice comes out a bit muffled, through the bite.

“I told you!! Ugh she's pretty and she can cook?” Hueningkai whines, shaking them by their shoulders.

“Bake, technically. But yeah, it's impressive.”

“And that's exactly why you should shoot your shot!!” She finally lets them go, walking in front of them to face them instead.

“I really don't think that's a good idea..” They trail off, avoiding her eyes.

Taehyun hasn't stopped thinking about the pretty girl since the day she came in, yet they still feel this extreme guilt eating them up whenever she comes to their mind. How could they explain that feeling when the source of guilt is standing right in front of them?

“Why not? You know, she asked about you when she saw me at the bakery. She's definitely into you!!” Hueningkai pushes.

Taehyun doubts that. What could possibly attract such a gorgeous girl to them?

“I don't know ‘ning.. I'm just not in the right headspace to date right now.” They dismiss, knowing this won't be the last time they have this conversation, but they can still try to get her off their back for now.

“Fine. Die alone then.” She huffs out.

Taehyun knows she isn't actually upset, they know she's just looking out for them, that she wants them to have someone else to lean on.

“You're literally single too, idiot.” They yell behind her, watching her head over to the sunflowers, rearranging them even though the array was already perfect.

𓂃˖˳·˖ ִֶָ ⋆🌷͙⋆ ִֶָ˖·˳˖𓂃 ִֶָ

“Hello, welcome to sa-” Taehyun pauses mid-sentence when they look up at the incomer, taking in the beauty in front of them.

Though they snap out of it quickly, clearing their throat. “Uhm welcome to Sanctuary, Soobin.” They say with a polite smile, hoping their inner turmoil isn't showing on their face.

“Hey, Taehyun right?” She flashes a small smile, dimples poking out. “Ah, sorry, I swear I'm not a creep.. Hueningkai told me your name the other day.” She says right after in a panic.

“No worries, I suspected. She loves making new friends and dragging me along with her.” It comes out a lot more flat than intended, Taehyun was never great at controlling their tone.

“She's a sweetheart.” Soobin says fondly. Then, after a quick scope around the shop. “Where is she, by the way?” She asks with a tilt of her head, making her bangs fall over her eyes slightly.

Taehyun's hand twitches to reach out and move it away. They pick up a stray flower from the counter instead.

“She's out with a friend. It's her day-off today.” They search for a sign of disappointment in her face, they come up with nothing. Shocking.

Soobin nods, more to herself. A confirmation. “Did the muffin reach you alright?” She asks.

“Yeah, it did. Thank you, it was really good. You're good at what you do.” They look down at the flower between their hands, avoiding her gaze. Their right lip ring goes between their teeth, a nervous habit of theirs.

“Thank you. Kai told me it was your favourite.” She says, cheeky.

Of course she did.

"I did come in to get flowers though," Soobin starts again after a pause, smile still wide on her face. "a bouquet of hydrangeas, please.”

Her voice is so soft, Taehyun thinks they could fall asleep to her just talking. That's a thought to unpack another day.

“Yeah of course, any idea about the colors you'd like? How big do you want it to be?” They ask, walking out from behind the counter, towards where the hydrangeas are displayed.

“Uhh, do you have pink, orange, and white ones?” She asks, a little bashful.

It confuses Taehyun for a moment, until they put the three colors together and oh.

That's the lesbain flag.

Taehyun holds out the three flowers towards her, showing her how the colors look together. “This alright?”

She blushes, nodding. Taehyun doesn't get why she's so shy about it. Well, they kind of do. Being queer isn't really the norm. They just don't understand why she's so shy about around them, when they're so obviously queer as well.

“Happy national lesbian day, by the way.” They add, trying to somewhat ease her embarrassment.

Beomgyu had been pestering both Hueningkai and them about it the whole week prior, about how it's ‘her day’ soon and how they ‘must pay me at least 15,000 won each!’ and Taehyun kinda hates lesbians.

However, despite their efforts, Soobin chokes at the statement. Horror painted all over her face.

Shit.

Taehyun panics. Did they make it worse?

“Unless I got it wrong? I'm sorry, I didn't mea-” They stutter out, rushing to apologise.

Soobin’s laugh cuts them off before they could let out any more apologies. “You didn't. I was just caught off guard. Are the colors that obvious?” She says through giggles.

“Yeah. But it's also the timing.. it all just makes sense, no?” They pause for a moment, then it dawns on them.

“Oh my god. I'm so sorry I didn't mean to like- force you out of the closet? I must've made you so uncomfortable I'm sorry I really didn't realise how you might feel and-”

Soobin cuts them off yet again, this time by placing her hand over theirs with a grin. “Taehyun, it's fine. Unless.. you're like, homophobic or something?” She's still smiling -which Taehyun takes as a good sign, she isn't that mad- as she pulls away, feigning fear.

“What- No! No no, of course I'm not!” They jump to defend themself.

“Thought so.” She giggled.

Taehyun flushes and turns their focus back to the flowers, a small smile still gracing their lips. They pick out 3 of each color, grabbing a few white baby’s breaths to fill the gaps in between.

“How's this? D’you want it to be bigger?” They present the flowers to her, held together by their hands.

Soobin shakes her head in response. “No, this is perfect! Thank you.”

They nod to themself, walking back behind the counter with the flowers held tightly in their hand, Soobin following tow.

“You can pick out which wrapping paper and ribbon you'd like.” They say, gesturing to the display of different designs of wrapping paper and ribbons behind them.

Once she does, cutely pointing out which paper and ribbon she'd like, Taehyun gets the bouquet ready, wrapping it with the paper and ribbon of her choice. Handing it over to her with a polite smile once they're done.

“Enjoy your day, it is your day afterall.” It earns them a giggle. Their heart flutters. It's worth the embarrassment.

𓂃˖˳·˖ ִֶָ ⋆🌷͙⋆ ִֶָ˖·˳˖𓂃 ִֶָ

“Soo, I heard Soobin visited the shop while I wasn’t here?” Hueningkai is suddenly all up in their personal space, which isn't too unusual for the younger, yet this time Taehyun feels uncomfortable with her being so close.

They were in her apartment, heading there right after closing the shop. They were sitting on the ground resting their back on the couch she's laying on. Half dangling off it in an attempt to face them.

“Yeah, she did. Who told you? It was only me and her in here.” They flick her on the forehead. They need her to back off. They can't breathe.

“Soobin did.” She says smugly. “I got her Instagram account when I saw her at the bakery.” She finally lays back properly, giving Taehyun a bit of space to breathe. Her thighs are still touching the back of their neck, which isn't helping.

“Bold, aren't you?” They can't help the jealousy that seeps into their veins.

Hueningkai had always made friends easily, she was comfortable with talking to new people. Nice, inviting, friendly, that's just who she is.

Taehyun could never be anything like her. They were everything she wasn't. Quiet. Timid. People viewed them as cold or blunt. That wouldn’t change.

“You want me to give you her account? I'm sure she wouldn't mind.” Sweet, sweet Hueningkai. Always trying to make them feel better. “Actually I think she'd be more than happy to have you follow her.”

There she goes again. Ever since she met Soobin at the bakery, she's been insisting that the girl likes them. Her only reasoning being ‘why else would she immediately ask about you!!’ Taehyun could think of a few good reasons, but none of which would change Hueningkai’s mind, so why bother.

“I'm okay.” They say, unsure what else to say. They couldn't agree. Why would they? They barely know Soobin, it'd be weird. They hear Hueningkai hum from where she's laying, she sounds tired and a glance behind them confirms it. Her eyes are shut, and she seems two minutes away from falling asleep right there on the couch.

That's their queue to leave, so they get up, picking up their phone and keys from where they were on the floor next to where they sat. “Leaving?” The voice startles them, they look at Hueningkai, still laying there, eyes barely open.

“Uhm, yeah.. You seemed tired. Didn't wanna keep you up any longer.”

She lets out a whine, reaching out to them. “Don't leave me, what if I die in my sleep!!”

Taehyun feels a pang of fear. She said that as a joke, they know she did, yet the thought scares them shitless. They can't live without her, they'd wither away into nothing.

Some might find it dramatic, but Taehyun thinks it's downplaying how much she means to them. How attached to each other they are. They can't live without her.

“I need to go ‘ningie. It's late. You're falling asleep.”

Another whine. This time Hueningkai sits up and looks them dead in the eye with a pout.

“Sleep over? Please?” And Taehyun isn't strong. Not when it comes to her.

They set down their things on the coffee table “Alright” They say, taking her arm and pulling her up and off the couch. “But you need to get to bed so I can sleep here.”

They drag her all the way to her room, forcing her to at least take off the jeans she was wearing, leaving her in just an oversized hoodie and her underwear. Taehyun tries not to stare at her thighs while tucking her in. They pull the covers over her and step back to leave the room.

Hueningkai doesn't let them though, holding them back with an arm wrapped around their wrist. “Sleep here. Your back will hurt from the couch.”

Taehyun is sure their heart stops for a moment. Sure, they've slept over before, in the same room when they're at hotels too. They've never slept in the same bed before. How can she say something so world-shaking so casually?

They think their silence might give too much away if it goes on any longer so they muster out a shaky ‘Sure’ and all but run to her bathroom with an excuse of ‘washing up’.

They come back after washing their face about five times. They find Hueningkai already fast asleep, which doesn't surprise them. She was already halfway there when they left.

They climb into her bed after a few moments of debating going to the living room and sleeping on the couch. They regret their choice immediately when Hueningkai unconsciously wraps herself around them. Hands around their waist, head nuzzling into their chest.

They barely slept that night.

𓂃˖˳·˖ ִֶָ ⋆🌷͙⋆ ִֶָ˖·˳˖𓂃 ִֶָ

Hueningkai is out with Soobin. Taehyun's fine. No, really, they're fine. Until Hueningkai sends them a picture of the two in what looks like a book store.

Huh. Hueningkai doesn't read.

They don't have enough time to wonder why the two girls are there because a follow-up text comes through a second after.

“She dragged me here😵‍💫 save me taehyun-ah”

Ah, so it's Soobin who reads. Taehyun adds that to the growing list of facts they know about her. They try not to think about it too much, about what books she likes to read or if they've ever read the same books. That's just silly.

“Sorry. No can do!”

They reply quickly and set their phone face down on their nightstand. It's the weekend, the shop's closed, and Taehyun should really be outside, enjoying… Something instead of wallowing up in their bed and thinking about the two girls they li-

They push that thought away. They're their friends. That's it. Hell, they don't know if Soobin even considers them a friend. They don't think she should.

Taehyun has been avoiding her the past week. She's invited both Hueningkai and theirself to go out twice, and they came up with a stupid excuse each time. Hueningkai has gone down to the bakery at least thrice that week, inviting Taehyun to come with, insisting that they can close the shop for a bit. Taehyun refuses again and again.

Soobin makes them feel weird. She makes their heart flutter and their cheeks heat up. She makes them think about Hueningkai, how similar they both make them feel. She reminds them how sick and greedy they are to have such thoughts about two girls. Two girls that are supposed to be their friend. Taehyun doesn't like it.

They're already different, weird. They can't also like two different people. That'll be too much. They've already had multiple people leave them because they ‘just can’t pick what you want to be! That's stupid.’

They can't like two people. They can't. It's weird. Gross. Greedy.

They sigh, turning on their side. They force their eyes shut. It's only 8, yet Taehyun can't stand being awake any longer. They squeeze their eyes tighter.

𓂃˖˳·˖ ִֶָ ⋆🌷͙⋆ ִֶָ˖·˳˖𓂃 ִֶָ

Taehyun still doesn't know how they ended up here, standing in line at Soobin’s bakery.

Okay, maybe they do. Hueningkai has been begging them all week to go down to the bakery and get her a cupcake because ‘I need to eat one again before I die.’ and when asked why she couldn't go and get it herself, they'd just be met with a pout.

They eventually gave in because they couldn't never deny her anything for long.

As the line in front of them gets shorter, their heart rate gets faster. They haven't seen Soobin since she came in and got a bouquet. Taehyun has been replaying that interaction in their head over and over again. ‘It’s your day afterall’. Why would they say that? Acting like they know her. Truly stupid.

They feel like throwing up once they get to the counter. Soobin is still packing up the previous customer's order, not noticing them yet. Taehyun debates bolting out of the bakery at that moment, but Soobin spots them before they can.

“Taehyun! Hi! It's so nice to finally see you here.” Soobin gives them a smile so sweet they feel weak in the knees.

Pull yourself together, Kang. It's just a stupidly pretty girl.

“Hey.. Yeah, I'm sorry it took so long.” They wanted to elaborate, tell her why they haven't visited yet. Their mouth wouldn't comply.

“So, what can I get you?”

“Just a cupcake, please. Chocolate.” They're looking up at the menu behind her, avoiding her gaze.

Soobin taps away on the screen in front of her. “Is it for Hueningkai? She seems to really like the cupcakes.” She says with a proud smile.

Taehyun nods curtly. “Yeah, she gets them often.. They're her favourite dessert.” They smile to themself at the thought of their best friend, who's just up the road taking care of their shop.

Soobin clears her throat after a beat of silence. “Uhm.. Nothing for you?” She says awkwardly. A whole 180 from how smiley and cheery she was just a second ago.

“No, I'm fine.” Their voice comes out too blunt. Damnit.

“Okay then, that'll be 5,400 won, please.”

Taehyun doesn't know why her mood dropped so fast, she was just beaming at them, and now they can barely even hear her voice from how quiet she's being. It doesn't make sense.

They pay and wait no more than a minute or so for Soobin to pack up the cupcake and hand it over with a timid ‘enjoy’ and then they head out and back up the road to Sanctuary.

𓂃˖˳·˖ ִֶָ ⋆🌷͙⋆ ִֶָ˖·˳˖𓂃 ִֶָ

Taehyun is very confused.

Hueningkai had invited them to a movie night, yet, the girl is nowhere to be seen. She had insisted that they meet at the theatre instead of having Taehyun pick her up, which is very strange for the younger. She never refuses a ride from Taehyun.

Which is why Taehyun is standing at the entrance of their local movie theatre, waiting for her. Hueningkai has never been late. In fact, she always shows up at least 5 minutes early to everything. So, Taehyun is reasonably confused when it's 10 minutes past their meet-up time and Hueningkai still hasn't shown up.

“Taehyun-ah!”

Oh.

Oh no.

That can't be who they think it is.

What the hell would Soobin be doing here?!

Taehyun turns around slowly, praying to whatever creature is up there that they misheard and that it's just silly little Hueningkai behind them.

Unfortunately, whatever is up there seems to not give a fuck about them. Maybe it's because they're gay. Damnit.

“Hey.. Soobin.” They try, like, really try, to not let the dread rushing through them to seep into their voice. Judging by Soobin's face, they failed miserably.

Soobin looks absolutely adorable, in a white ruffled skirt that goes down to her mid-thigh, paired with a white top under a light lavender cardigan that's thinner than Taehyun's self restraint. They have no idea how she made it here without freezing her ass off.

It's a stark contrast from the oversized grey jeans and black hoodie Taehyun's wearing.

“Hi! Hueningkai felt very tired and decided to stay home last minute, and she didn't want the ticket to go to waste. I hope you don't mind?” She gives them a cheeky grin and Taehyun thinks she could ruin their whole life and they wouldn't really mind.

Hueningkai, on the other hand …probably not gonna face any consequences for her actions either, because Taehyun could never bring themself to actually do anything to her.

“No, I don't. I just wish I would've gotten a heads up.” They dismiss, walking towards the snack counter without looking back to see if Soobin is following.

The quick footsteps behind them let know that she is, in fact, following them. Soobin’s beside them in less than a second. Damn those long legs.

“Do you wanna share popcorn?” Soobin asks when they get in line at the snack bar. Her voice sounds so hopeful, and a little scared, it sends pang through their heart.

Are they being too cold towards her?

Taehyun doesn't mean to. It's unconscious, really. They just don't interact with anyone other than Hueningkai and, occasionally, Yeonjun, Hueningkai's friend. They're unsure how to act.

They nod silently. “What flavour d’you like?”

“Salt.” Taehyun only gets caramel.

“Sure, we can share.”

They get their, admittedly huge, popcorn bucket and a couple other small snacks and head towards the theatre.

They find their seats easily and settle in. They're still a few minutes early so the theatre is fairly empty. The silence is extremely uncomfortable.

“Uhh.. Hueningkai never told me how you two met.” It's a statement, yet her hesitance makes it feel like a question.

“We met in elementary school.” They, once again, don't elaborate.

“Ahh, that's a long time…” She says awkwardly, because truthfully, what else is she supposed to say?

“Mhm.” They stare at the blank screen in front of them.

“When did you two get together?” Soobin asks with a tilted head.

“Excuse me?” Taehyun's head whips to the side so fast a spark of pain shoots through their neck.

“I.. You're together.. Right?” She asks, confused.

“No?! Where did you get that from?” Their tone is harsh, defensive.

“Oh uhm.. I just assumed..” Soobin scratches the back of her neck in guilt, her cheeks tinting a light pink. She looks beautiful.

“We're not together.” They say, putting an end to the conversation.

The movie starts after an awkward amount of silent time.

𓂃˖˳·˖ ִֶָ ⋆🌷͙⋆ ִֶָ˖·˳˖𓂃 ִֶָ

“Are you cold?” Taehyun can basically feel her shivering next to them.

The movie had gone.. As well as it possibly could've. The two didn't talk much after the little misunderstanding, just silently watching – staring at the screen and rethinking every minute that has led to this moment in their life in Taehyun's case – the movie and munching on their snacks.

They're walking Soobin back to her house because they have manners, even though they'd rather be anywhere in the world right now than 2 feet away from her.

As expected, the thin cardigan Soobin was wearing was doing nothing to protect her from the November wind, she was almost shaking next to them.

“Uhm.. Yeah, a little..” She chuckles shyly, crossing her arms softly in an attempt to shield herself from the cold.

Taehyun slows down a bit and slips off their hoodie, leaving them in a grey long sleeve.

“Here.” They extend the hoodie towards her, glancing at her face for just a moment before looking down at the pavement.

“It's fine, really. I can't take that..” She shakes her head softly.

“I already took it off, just take it, Soobin.” They shake the article, insistent.

“Okay.” She says so quietly Taehyun almost misses it, taking the hoodie from them and pulling it over her head. “Thanks.”

“Sure.” Taehyun dared to spare another glance towards her and they've never regretted anything so fast.

She looks adorable in their hoodie. It was almost swallowing her up whole.

The thing is, Soobin is a few inches taller than Taehyun, yet, the latter is noticeably broader as a result of endless hours at the gym. Not to mention their preference for oversized clothing.

“Smells nice.”

“What?” They didn't hear that right, did they?

“The hoodie, it smells nice” Soobin looks them straight in the eye, nuzzling her nose into the collar of the hoodie slightly.

“Oh. Thanks.” Taehyun can feel their cheeks heating up. They don't understand why, the compliment wasn't really directed towards them.

They hear a giggle but they don't dare look back at Soobin until they get to the front door of her apartment complex.

“This is me.” She says, her voice still soft as ever, now laced with a hint of disappointment.

Taehyun nods their head, unsure what to say.

“I had fun today, we should hang out again. Maybe with Hueningkai too.” Soobin smiles at them, her fists curling up over the edge of the hoodie sleeves.

“Yeah, I'll ask her. She'll probably arrange something by next week.” Taehyun lets out a weak chuckle.

“Uhm, I'll go inside now..” She slowly turns to walk away awkwardly, not looking back. Still in Taehyun's hoodie.

They didn't want it back, anyway.

𓂃˖˳·˖ ִֶָ ⋆🌷͙⋆ ִֶָ˖·˳˖𓂃 ִֶָ

“Soobin thought you and I were dating.” Taehyun mentions offhandedly the next day.

They were opening Sanctuary for the day, with Hueningkai hovering behind them.

“Oh my god, what?! Why would she think that?” Hueningkai lets out one of her nervous laughs, making Taehyun turn to give her a weird look.

“I don't know, didn't ask. It's weird though.” Taehyun turns to face her again once they're both inside the shop. “Do you think we act like a couple?”

Hueningkai shrugs, not really looking at Taehyun now. “I don't know, I'm just me when I'm with you.” She says simply, yet a light blush litters her cheeks.

Taehyun feels their heart stop for a brief moment. What is that supposed to even mean? I'm just me when I'm with you. The thought that Taehyun gets to witness and be around a fully genuine Hueningkai makes them simultaneously giddy and panicked.

“Uh, yeah, same.”

“What if we did date though.. I mean, have you ever thought of it?” Hueningkai asks after a brief moment.

Of course Taehyun has thought of it, in fact, it's all they think about when they're around the taller girl. How it would feel to hold her in a romantic context, kiss her on the lips, call her theirs.

Obviously, Taehyun can't tell her that. They know she doesn't see them that way, she always treats them like a sibling more than a friend. Telling her their feelings would, most likely, change their friendship forever. For the worse.

“No? That's weird. You're my best friend.”

“Oh.” Hueningkai’s face fell for a split second. “Yeah, it is weird. Sorry I asked.”

Taehyun doesn't answer, focusing on restocking the wrapping paper instead.

𓂃˖˳·˖ ִֶָ ⋆🌷͙⋆ ִֶָ˖·˳˖𓂃 ִֶָ

Taehyun can't fall asleep. They've been tossing and turning for hours now.

They keep thinking of the way Hueningkai's face fell when they practically rejected her. Why did she look so upset? Was she perhaps hoping that Taehyun had imagined dating her? Does she want them to think of her that way?

They rethink every single interaction they've had for the past.. Years. Was any of it romantic on her side? She does cling onto them a lot, often finding their hand and grasping it tightly whenever they're close enough, hugging them almost every time the two meet, and most recently, cuddling them while she sleeps.

But, Hueningkai is just like that, right? She's a clingy person.

As they're replaying her interactions with others, Taehyun realises that maybe it's only towards them.

They've never seen her hold Yeonjun’s hand, The two hug pretty often but it's never as long as the ones Taehyun gets from Hueningkai.

They haven't stopped thinking about the phrase she said earlier too.

I'm just me when I'm with you.

It's not necessarily anything romantic. It's somehow worse, it's something so deep and meaningful. Intimate. Someone trusting you enough to be their full true self in front of you is a big thing, Taheyun doesn't know what to do with it.

They love her so much it hurts, just thinking about it makes them feel overwhelmed, scared. They want her to be theirs so badly it brings tears to their eyes.

Taehyun rarely cries, they don't feel the need to very often, yet, every time they think about the amount of love they hold for that sweet girl, their eyes water. It hurts them to have to hold back and not fully give her all the love she deserves, but they're scared.

How will she react if they do? Will she accept it happily, or will she see their true self and find it disgusting, leaving them behind.

Taehyun shakes their head, they shouldn't go there. They sit up and grab the water bottle on their nightstand, left there for god knows how long now, and take a sip, grimacing at how warm the water is. Their lip ring goes between their teeth.

Setting the bottle back and laying down again, Taehyun's mind runs to different territory.

Soobin.

Soobin in their hoodie, Soobin telling them it smells nice, Soobin’s dimpled smile and her sweet soft voice, Her-

Fuck. They can't think about her like that. Hell, they probably shouldn't be thinking about her at all. Soobin was Hueningkai's friend, that's it. They hung out with her once and it wasn't even planned.

Why are they being so greedy? Are they really that easy? Falling for whoever gives them the slightest bit of attention?

What would happen if Hueningkai or Soobin found out, if both of them found out. They would probably be so disgusted with Taehyun and their greed.

What if either of them do like them..

They couldn't fathom the possibility but what if. Would they have to date one of them, leaving the other behind? What if they both liked them? Would Taehyun have to choose?

Thoughts circle their head for hours on end. As much as they try, they can't steer their thoughts away from the two girls haunting them.

Taehyun doesn't sleep much that night.

𓂃˖˳·˖ ִֶָ ⋆🌷͙⋆ ִֶָ˖·˳˖𓂃 ִֶָ

The bell above the door of the shop chimes, indicating a customer coming in. Taehyun looks up from the bouquet they were working on to greet the newcomer, only to be faced with familiar soft eyes.

“Hi, Soobin.” They only spare her a glance, going back to working on the bouquet.

Hueningkai greets her more enthusiastically next to them, walking out from behind the counter to face Soobin.

The two talk idly, not really acknowledging Taehyun.

Thank god.

“-Hyun?” They're snapped out of their thoughts when someone -who turns out to be Hueningkai- calls out their name. Probably not for the first time.

“Yeah?” They look up, pausing their hands midway in through the air.

“We’re going out after we close up, wanna join?” Soobin asks, sparks in her eyes.

“Uh, I don't know.. I was planning to just go home and rest.” It's a lame response, they panicked.

“Come on!! We're just gonna get some dinner then head back probably. We won't stay out long, promise!” Hueningkai pushes, rocking back and forth on her feet.

“I really don't know..” They look away, looking at her pleading eyes would make them cave in.

“Taehyunnie please.” It's Soobin who speaks this time, and oh.

Taehyun did not need to know what Soobin sounded when she begged.

“Fine. But I'm expecting to be home by 10.”

𓂃˖˳·˖ ִֶָ ⋆🌷͙⋆ ִֶָ˖·˳˖𓂃 ִֶָ

Taehyun followed them out of the shop after they closed up, having no idea where they were heading.

The two girls chatter quietly in front of them, Taehyun can't hear much but they catch a few words here and there, not enough to know what the conversation is about.

They pull out their phone to distract themself, not keen on interrupting the girls’ conversation. They scroll aimlessly since they don't really have much activity on the small device anyway.

“Tyun? You with us?” Taehyun looks up at the familiar call of their name, tilting their head in confusion.

“Sorry, I didn't catch what you were saying earlier.” They reply softly, still unsure what they were being asked.

“We wanna get sushi from this new place. It's a bit of a drive though, is that fine with you?” Soobin repeats patiently. She smiles when she gets a nod in return. “My car is parked in front of the bakery, I'll drive us there.”

Taehyun stays a step behind the two as they walk to the bakery, keeping up with their conversation this time.

Soobin slows down in front of a small, navy car, walking around it to open the driver's door.

Taehyun halts as Hueningkai gets in the backseat. They assumed that Hueningkai would take the passenger seat, she's Soobin's friend afterall.

It's fine. Just get in, don't be rude. 

They step into the passenger seat a couple of seconds later, trying to seem as casual as they can with their heart beating concerningly fast.

“What'd you guys like to listen to?” Soobin says, turning the engine on.

“Tyunie loves Twice.” Kai giggles, leaning forward in the space between the two in the front.

“Oh? They don't seem like the type.”

And oh. Taehyun feels a weird rush of something. A mix of panic, dread and relief, maybe?

Soobin knows their pronouns, their identity.  Taehyun never had to mention it. Never had to correct her countless times for her to get it. She used their pronouns correctly, easily.

Holy shit. Taehyun feels euphoric.

Did Hueningkai tell her? Taehyun doesn't think she would, though they don't mind the thought.

Did Soobin pick up their pronouns just from Hueningkai using them?

“What is that supposed to mean?” They say after realising they had taken too long to respond.

Soobin grins, shrugging as the intro of This is for starts playing through the car speakers and she starts driving.

They park in front of a fancy looking building Taehyun's never been to, getting out and walking a few feet to actually reach the restaurant. Taehyun trailing behind the two girls again.

Except, this time, Hueningkai notices and tugs them forward by the arm, placing them in-between the two, forcing them to join the conversation.

Soobin talks to the hostess when they walk in, asking for a table and taking the lead behind the hostess to their table, taking the middle seat once they get there.

They settle in as their waitress comes in and introduces herself, handing them menus and asking for their drink orders.

The three decide on what to order pretty quickly, flagging down their waitress and letting Soobin handle their order.

Taehyun's a bit surprised, not expecting her to take such a leading role, considering how shy she was when she came into their shop for the first time.

They get their food a while later, and Taehyun has to hold themself back from audibly moaning at how good it is. Or maybe they're just really hungry. They don't think they've eaten anything since breakfast.

Taehyun stays fairly quiet throughout the meal, chiming in every now and then whenever they have an opinion to share or a comment to make, not having to talk unless they want to. This is exactly why they've always enjoyed hanging out with a group of people.

Finishing their meal, they only slightly argue about who pays – Taehyun ends up paying – before walking out. Taehyun ends up walking next to Soobin, their hands grazing each other's every other step, with Hueningkai half a step behind them. She falls quiet on the way back to the car.

Back in the car, Soobin offers to drop the two home, instead of at the shop. Taehyun argues that it's too much of a bother to stop twice, Soobin insists.

“You could drop us both off at Hueningie’s?” Taehyun asks, the question aimed at Hueningkai more than Soobin.

“‘M too tired to hang out.” Hueningkai mumbles from the backseat, looking out the window, almost like an angsty teen.

What is wrong with her? Did they say something to upset her? Hueningkai never acts this way, never towards Taehyun, at least.

“It's alright, it's not a bother.” Soobin says, breaking the awkward silence, glancing warily at Taehyun.

The rest of the drive to Hueningkai's house is in silence, none of them daring to talk, it's suffocating. Taehyun rolls down the window.

The car came to a stop in front of the familiar building less than 10 minutes later. Hueningkai steps out with a hushed ‘Bye’ and rushes to the front door, not sparing them a glance.

“Is she upset? Did we say something?” Soobin asks, the car still parked.

Taehyun shrugs. “She is," They sigh. "I don't know why, though. She was fine at the restaurant but when we got out she went quiet.”

“That's weird.. maybe it's not us? Might be something else.” Soobin says, pouting and looking back to the road to drive off.

Taehyun's apartment complex isn't too far from Hueningkai's, only a 6 minute drive, which is spent in complete silence aside from the low hum coming from the radio.

Soobin looks at them expectantly once she parks her car in Taehyun's driveway. Taehyun looks away.

“So uh this is m-”

“Taehyun-ah.” Soobin cuts off.

“Hm?” Taehyun glances at her, meeting her glimmering eyes. Huh, her cheeks are pink, too?

“Can I.. Take you out? Like, on a date?”

Huh.

Soobin's biting her lip, clearly fighting the urge to look away. Instead, she shyly glances at Taehyun in anticipation.

“What?”

That's all they can manage to get out, one word out of the thousand questions rushing through their mind.

“Taehyun-ah, I've liked you since that first day I saw you. I didn't know you much at the time, so I guess it was only a crush, as silly as that sounds. But.. Spending time with you made me realise how much I like your company. How much I wanna get to know you more.”

Taehyun's heart throbs at the confession, their mind short-circuiting, mouth wide open.

“I, uh, thought that you were with Kai, that's why I didn't ask you out the moment I saw you.” Soobin continues when they don't respond. “Then I found out you weren't, and I wanted to take my chance.. You don't have to agree, I just thought.. Maybe I could try?”

“I’m in love with Kai.”

Taehyun's eyes widen, as if they weren't the one to blurt that out in the first place.

“I guessed.” Soobin replies, sounding disappointed, though trying not to show it.

“But,” They clear their throat. “I'm.. interested you, too, Soobin.”

Taehyun adjusts, turning to face Soobin.

“I like your presence. I want get to know you and that confuses me. Hueningie has been the only person I've ever liked romantically. So when you came in and I..” They tail off, unable to fully say it out loud. “Everything felt weird. Wrong, even. Like I'm being greedy for wanting you both. I don't want to go out with you when I'm in love with someone else. I don't wanna do that to you.”

Soobin giggles, outright giggles in response. And maybe if Taehyun wasn't about to throw up, they'd soak up the sound and enjoy being the cause of it a bit more.

“Hyunie.. Ah you're cute. You're not being greedy, or wrong. You can't control what or how you feel, Taehyun. Yes, liking two people at once isn't really the norm, but it's not that unusual either. It even has a name. Polyamory. You should look it up.” Her tone is nothing but soft. Encouraging.

She reaches out to them, offering her hand. Taehyun takes it easily.

“I still wanna take you out, even if you have feelings for someone else.” A squeeze to their hand, reassuring.

“But, what if.. Something happens between us, Kai and I.”

Soobin smiles, so soft and relaxed.

“Then it happens. We can see how Huening feels about everything when we get there, hm?”

It all seems so simple when Soobin says it like that, and maybe it just is.

"And you won't make me choose?" They ask, wry.

"Never." 

“Okay… Text me the details?”

Soobin's grin is the widest Taehyun's ever seen.

𓂃˖˳·˖ ִֶָ ⋆🌷͙⋆ ִֶָ˖·˳˖𓂃 ִֶָ

tyunie (⁠✯⁠ᴗ⁠✯⁠)

: Hey ningie, everything alright? You were quiet on the way back.

Ningie

: yeah, I'm fine ! just got tired
by the end of the day :3

She's bullshiting. Taehyun knows it. They just don't know why. The two never hide anything from each other.

They think back to everything that happened earlier that night, trying to figure out what could've upset the girl.

Was the food not to her taste? Was it because they didn't let her pay? No. Hueningkai isn't that easily upset.

She was fine up until the walk to the car. Was it because they were walking beside each other? Did she feel left out? It's Taehyun's best guess, what else could it be?

They aren't sure how to make it better. Hell, they've probably made it worse by accepting Soobin's confession.

Damnit Taehyun.

tyunie (⁠✯⁠ᴗ⁠✯⁠)

: Okay, get some sleep then.

: Good night ningie, sleep well.

Ningie

: (⁠*⁠´⁠ω⁠｀⁠*⁠)

𓂃˖˳·˖ ִֶָ ⋆🌷͙⋆ ִֶָ˖·˳˖𓂃 ִֶָ

“So.. you were right.”

Taehyun breaks the silence that's fallen over the shop since they greeted Hueningkai almost half an hour ago when they walked in.

“What? Right about what?”

“Soobin. She asked me out”

Taehyun doesn't really know why they're telling her this. They can't really hide anything from her.

“Oh.” She croaks out, clearing her throat. “What'd you say?”

“I agreed.” They shrug, keeping their voice as steady as they can muster. “Why not give it a try?”

Hueningkai’s avoiding their eyes. She's clearly upset again.

Taehyun doesn't get it, she was the one that insisted that Soobin likes them, why is she upset now that it's happening?

“That's nice, hope it works out for you.”

Taehyun wants to yell at her. Beg her to tell them what's going on in her mind. They want to fix it. They know they could if she would just tell them.

They turn away towards the flowers instead.

𓂃˖˳·˖ ִֶָ ⋆🌷͙⋆ ִֶָ˖·˳˖𓂃 ִֶָ

Soobin asks Taehyun to meet her that Sunday. She doesn't tell them where, just sends an address with a ‘see you there at 4? :3’ and who is Taehyun to refuse?

Turns out the address leads to an aquarium. Taehyun can't hide their amused smile when the sign comes into view, it's predictable, really.

They spot Soobin waiting for them in front of the building, glancing around then looking at her phone nervously. Cute.

She's wearing a long, floral skirt that goes past her ankles, paired with a light blue knit sweater that's actually thick enough to keep her warm, her hair tied into two braids. Taehyun thinks they adore her already.

Their legs feel like jelly while walking up to her, they're nervously biting their lip ring, fidgeting with the ones on their fingers, too.

“Taehyun! Hey.. You look good.” Soobin smiles shyly.

Taehyun disagrees. They did put effort into the way they look today. Wearing something other than a hoodie and jeans, even applying some eyeliner onto their waterline, but it still wasn't anything impressive.

“Thanks,” They smile. “I like your hair.”

Fucking loser. Who says that?

Soobin doesn't seem to mind it, smiling wider and unconsciously taking her hair into her hands and fiddling with it.

“Let's head in?” She says, still grinning like an idiot.

Taehyun nods dumbly, following her inside.

They get their tickets at the counter, Soobin paying this time because “You paid last time, let me handle it.” then head in.

“Wait actually, Tyunie, can we go to the bathroom first?”

It's a sentence Taehyun dreads.

They don't use public bathrooms, they set that rule for themself a very long time ago. They're not meant for people like them, not many places are.

“Yeah, you can go in. I'll wait for you outside?” They suggest.

Soobin nods, seeming to belatedly understand why Taehyun wouldn't want to go inside. She heads in alone, coming out a few minutes later and extending her hand out for Taehyun to hold.

“Ready?” They ask, taking her cold hand into their warm one and giving it a squeeze.

She smiles humming out a small approving sound and tugging them forward towards the huge tanks.

The two walk around the aquarium for hours. Soobin gasping and pointing whenever she sees a pretty fish, almost always followed by Taehyun giving her a useless fact about said fish.

Taehyun doesn't think they've ever felt this comfortable with someone other than Hueningkai.

Soobin knows exactly what to say to keep the conversations flowing, she listens intently to their stupid ramblings about silly, mundane things, she offers her hand instead of just grabbing theirs, and doesn't touch them otherwise.

“Tae look! We're twins!!” She catches their attention, giggling as she puts her face near the glass, pursing her lips out in imitation of the fish next to her.

Taehyun laughs, a full body-shaking laugh. She looks stupid, cute. They grab their camera that's been weighing on their neck the whole evening -a result of their embarrassment to actually use it- to snap a picture before the fish swims too far away, still giggling and unable to hold the lense still, causing the photo to come out slightly blurry.

“You're an idiot, Soobin.” They say as they turn the camera screen towards her, displaying the picture they took seconds ago.

“See! told you, twins!” She lets out between giggles.

They walk around a bit more, Taehyun finally using their camera and snapping a few pictures as they walk around, before they both agree on getting something to eat.

The two head towards the small restaurant a little farther in the aquarium, packed with families and small children running around, and stand in line.

“Hey you know how Kai got upset when we were out the other day?” Soobin suddenly spoke up.

Taehyun looks at her in confusion “Yeah?”

“I think.. I might know why, but I need you to hear me out.”

Taehyun feels nauseous.

“Okay.”

“Taehyun-ah, I think Kai was jealous.” Soobin says, cautiously.

“Jealous? Of what?” Taehyun splutters out.

“Of me..? I'm assuming?” Soobin says. “Listen Tae, love, I could see it from the very first time I stepped into Sanctuary. Hueningkai likes you, loves you even. And seeing us interact got to her that night, that's why she got all quiet. Kai wants to be with you, she probably thinks she lost her chance.”

“What?” Taehyun scoffs out. “You can't be serious. You think that Kai would get that upset over, what, our hands brushing?! You think she's that fucking childish?” They're aware their voice is growing louder, yet they couldn't care less.

“You think you get to assume all this shit and act like you know me because I told you a stupid fucking secret I should've kept to myself? Just because I like her, doesn't mean I'll jump at the opportunity to believe anyone who says she does, too.” They spit out the last sentence like it physically hurts them to, and it does, to an extent.

“Taehyun-ah that's not what I me-”

They don't stay long enough to hear what she has to say. Turning around and walking towards the nearest exit in sight.

𓂃˖˳·˖ ִֶָ ⋆🌷͙⋆ ִֶָ˖·˳˖𓂃 ִֶָ

Soobin

: Taehyun-ah.. I'm sorry if i upset
you, i didn't mean to.

: i just wanted to tell you what i thought,
i promise i didn't mean anything by it.

: please text me when you're
home, just so i know you're safe.

tyun-ah <3

: I'm home.

They slam the door behind them, locking their phone directly after sending the text. They're still upset, a bit confused, but still upset. Something about the way Soobin said it.

Hueningkai likes you, loves you even.

Taehyun knows she loves them, of course she loves them. They're best friends for fucks sake. She doesn't love them like that though. Not like how they love her.

They don't understand why Soobin would lie to them like that. If Hueningkai actually wanted to be with them, wouldn't she have said something by now? Wouldn't they have noticed? They know her inside and out. They would know, wouldn't they?

If Soobin was telling them her actual opinion, does that mean she's pushing them away? Does she want them to date Hueningkai instead? Was she lying about her feelings?

Taehyun feels their chest tightening, something deep and dark clawing at their heart. It's hard to breathe. They walk over to their couch, collapsing on it as their breathing gets quicker.

Their binder suddenly feels all too tight.

Taehyun thinks that if they allow themself to ask ‘Was she really just lying?’ then they'd crumble beneath the weight of the answer.

Taehyun's eyes burn. Their head throbs. They're pathetic, really. Taehyun is so pathetic. Thinking Soobin could like them in such a short time. Thinking Soobin could ever like someone like them. 

They're not even mad at her, they understand.

Taehyun's mad at themself. For being so stupid and naive. So pathetic.

Ripping their shirt and binder off in one go, they get up, head to their bedroom to throw on a loose t-shirt, then to the kitchen to get a glass of water, hoping to ground themself. It does nothing.

Taehyun doesn't sleep at all that night.

𓂃˖˳·˖ ִֶָ ⋆🌷͙⋆ ִֶָ˖·˳˖𓂃 ִֶָ

The next day is a Saturday, Taehyun thanks every higher power that they don't have to go into work.

They feel like shit.

They have a headache and their eyes are puffy and burn from crying all night long. They feel nauseous and dizzy and overall horrible.

Taehyun's used to having panic attacks, they've been having them since the age of 7. Though before yesterday, they hadn't had one in months. And even then, it hadn't left them feeling as tired as this.

They needed at least a whole day to recover.

Ningie

: tyunie !

So much for recovering…

Ningie

: im sorry for acting all weird
the other day (⁠;⁠´⁠∩⁠`⁠;⁠)

    : can i make it up to you? we can go to our cafe or i can come over if you're
not feeling like going out?

Damn you, Hueningkai. Damn you for knowing exactly when to come in. Exactly what to say.

tyunie (⁠✯⁠ᴗ⁠✯⁠)

: You don't have anything to apologise for, ning.

Taehyun is weak, so so weak.

tyunie (⁠✯⁠ᴗ⁠✯⁠)

: Come over?

Ten minutes later, Taehyun hears some shuffling on the other side of their door, a code being punched in, and the door creaking open. Hueningkai's here.

Taehyun looks up at her from where they're buried under a blanket on their couch, taking her in. She looks gorgeous, she always does. Her stupid pink hair falling messily over her shoulders and a cheeky grin plastered on her face.

“Hey, you look like shit.” Hueningkai huffs out through a laugh.

She takes a seat at the end of the couch, avoiding Taehyun's feet as she sets the plastic bag in her hand on the ground.

“Thanks” Taehyun grumbles, shoving their head into the throw pillow they’re laying on.

They hear the crinkling of plastic seconds before they feel a small bag landing on their face. Gummies. They're very deeply in love with Hueningkai.

They sit up a bit, the blanket still up to their chin, and open up the bag of gummies, shoving a handful in their mouth all in one go.

This is what they love about Hueningkai. She's never asked ‘What happened?’ or ‘How are you feeling?’ She just sits with them when they need it, offering stupid snacks and silly plushies and it's all so endearingly sweet. Taehyun loves her.

“Wanna watch something?” Taehyun suggests after eating two thirds of the gummy bag. A little too late but better than never.

Hueningkai nods and gets up to grab the remote.

They end up binging a whole k-drama in one go, Taehyun feels simultaneously better and worse.

𓂃˖˳·˖ ִֶָ ⋆🌷͙⋆ ִֶָ˖·˳˖𓂃

Soobin

: tyunie please talk to me

It's been 5 days since their date, Soobin's been texting every day, Taehyun hasn't been replying. It's killing them. But the thought of texting back is terrifying.

They've been working on autopilot the past week, their body a lifeless thing walking around and following a routine. Wake up, make coffee, go to work, come back, wash up, sleep, repeat.

It's exhausting but they can't seem to snap out of it. Their mind keeps drifting between emptiness and dissociation, to complete chaos and disarray.

Taehyun's aware they're overreacting, that it was just a simple mistake, that their anger is out of place, it's just fear in disguise.

They know it all.

Hueningkai had noticed their behaviour and, bless her, apologised endlessly like any of it was her fault. She keeps saying she pushed Taehyun to go on the date, even though she didn't. 

It's all Taehyun's fault.

𓂃˖˳·˖ ִֶָ ⋆🌷͙⋆ ִֶָ˖·˳˖𓂃 ִֶָ

“Taehyun-ah, can we talk?”

Soobin’s at the shop, a week of radio silence was apparently enough to bring her there at 7am sharp. Taehyun's surprised it took her that long.

They're in the storage room, Soobin had followed Taehyun there - with Hueningkai’s approval - after they practically ran back when they spotted her.

“Yes, actually,” They sigh out, shutting their eyes tight. “I really don't want to but I know we have to.”

“Okay, Thank you. Can you look at me, please?” Her voice is awfully soft. Taehyun’s heart aches.

They take a deep breath and open their eyes.

And they feel like throwing up.

“Hi.” They break the silence.

“Hi.” She smiles. Taehyun thinks they don't deserve a smile from her, hell, they don't think they deserve her uttering a single word to them.

“I'm sorry.”

They've thought about this conversation thousands of times, thought about what they'd say and how Soobin might respond. Yet, now that they're having it, they can't think of anything they wanted to say.

“No, I'm sor-” Soobin starts, but Taehyun cuts her off before she can finish.

“No. Soobin, please, just listen to me for a bit? I have a lot of things I want to say, I just can't put everything into words. I'll try.” They spit out, all in one breath. Then, almost a whisper. “Please, listen?”

They get a nod in return. The dam breaks.

“I’m sorry, Soobin. You were just being honest, and… In that moment, I think I realised that maybe you're right. Maybe Kai was jealous. That scared me, it scared me so much that I denied it with everything in me. It was easier than admitting what might be true. I'm sorry for yelling at you and walking out, you didn't deserve that. You're such a sweetheart and I don't want to lose you, but I understand if you don't want to talk anymore.”

Somewhere in the middle of their rant, they've closed their eyes again. They only notice when Soobin grabs their face and tells them to look at her again.

“I’m glad you've come to your senses.” She giggles. “But, I'm still sorry, too. I overstepped, it was only our first date afterall.” Soobin leans her forehead to rest on theirs. “I’d love to take you on a second date if you'll allow me?”

If they'll allow her? Choi Soobin must be out of her mind to think Taehyun would deny her anything, ever.

“How about you come over to my place, I'll cook you a nice dinner. We can watch something maybe or just sit and talk?” Taehyun suggests.

Soobin hums in approval, nodding and rubbing their foreheads earning a fond chuckle in response.

"I'm so sorry." They whisper again, needing to say it again and again, as if it would ever erase what they'd done.

Soobin shakes her head and pulls them into an embrace, rubbing her cheek against the top of their head.

They stay like that for all of 20 seconds, untill-

“This is cute and all but we do have, like, ten batches of flowers we need to sort out.” A voice from the door pops their little bubble.

Shit. Taehyun forgot they're on the clock.

“Coming!”

𓂃˖˳·˖ ִֶָ ⋆🌷͙⋆ ִֶָ˖·˳˖𓂃 ִֶָ

Taehyun isn't completely sure what the dress code for a home-date is. It is their apartment, so they should be comfortable, right? How comfortable, though? Sweatpants and a sweatshirt or jeans and a fancy sweater?

They spend at least two hours getting ready, messing with their hair and ruffling it in all different directions. Trying on five different outfits and landing on one of their favourite jerseys over a long sleeve to keep them warm, and a pair of cargo shorts.

They smear on a bit of eyeliner and a good amount of chapstick - just in case - and the wait starts.

Even though it took them longer than usual to get ready, there's still about 30 minutes until Soobin's supposed to arrive.

So they sit on their couch, and wait. Knee bouncing up and down as they try to think of anything other than Soobin to pass the time.

Thirty one minutes of anxiously checking their phone for the time later, a knock finally comes, startling them up from the couch.

Somehow, they're even more nervous than their first date with Soobin.

They brace themself, taking a deep breath in, holding it for a second, then letting it out. It's just Soobin.

“Hi, cutie.” They're greeted with that sweet smile they've grown to adore once they open the apartment door.

Fuck Soobin, actually.

“Hi. Come in?” Taehyun chooses to ignore the petname, for their sanity.

They guide Soobin to their living room, which isn't much since they don't invite people over often, they never cared enough to decorate it.

“Do you have any allergies or preferences I should know about?” Taehyun asks before they forget, taking a seat next to Soobin on the couch.

“No, not really. I'm not picky with food.”

“Great. I'll start on dinner in a bit. Tell me about your day first?” They say, leaning back into the couch.

The two talk for almost an hour. Taehyun almost forgets that they need to actually start cooking. They end up dragging Soobin to the kitchen with them so she can continue telling them stories about her customers while they whip up dinner.

Soobin talks and talks and talks and Taehyun can't get enough of it. Her voice is so sweet, her face so expressive. They want to listen to her for as long as she'll let them.

She's telling them about the time she accidentally mixed up vanilla extract and soy sauce which made her cupcakes all salty and gross as they plate up dinner for the two.

They take the plates to one of their coffee tables near the couch in the living room, because its the closest thing they have to an actual table, Soobin follows closely behind them, - not commenting on the setting, bless her - sitting down after setting her plate in front of her.

During dinner, Taehyun tells her all about their middle school adventures with Hueningkai, Soobin praises their cooking skills endlessly, and they both blush and flirt through giggles.

Soobin insists on helping with the dishes. So Taehyun lets her. They wash while she dries, they finish in no time.

Taehyun pulls a pint of vanilla ice cream for dessert that they share back on the couch, still talking about everything and nothing.

“And then, she pulled my pants dow-”

“Ah, wait, you have something..” Soobin cuts them off mid-story, gesturing towards their mouth.

Taehyun wipes their mouth, they don't feel anything. “Is it gone?”

“Nuh uh it's- Can I just..?” Soobin says, a sly smile plastered on her face.

Taehyun nods wordlessly, palms dampening as Soobin leans closer. She grabs their chin, tugging them closer as she drags her finger across their bottom lip, over the rings.

“There.” She whispers, her breath grazing their lips. “Gone now.”

“Thanks.” Their voice comes out barely over a whisper.

“Do they hurt?” Soobin stares at their lips, her finger fidgeting with the rings there.

Taehyun shakes their head, tries to at least. Soobin's grip on their chin makes it hard to move, they feel paralysed, frozen in place.

“They’re fully healed, got ‘em so long ago.”

“Not what I meant.” She tuts, looking up into their eyes, gaze so sharp Taehyun thinks she can see through them.

“Do they hurt me when I..” She whispers, more to herself than out loud. Taehyun's breath hitches as she leans in closer.

They don't wait for her to finish, they surge forward to connect their lips. Admittedly a bit too hard, making their teeth clank at first but the two fall into a sweet rhythm quickly. It's far from perfect, their position all but comfortable, but it's all Taehyun has wanted since meeting Soobin.

Taehyun tilts their head, deepening the kiss, nose brushing her cheek, causing Soobin to huff out a laugh though her nose. She places her hand on their cheek, her other hand going on their thigh, tugging them closer. And god, her lips, her touch, everything about her is soft, so incredibly soft. Taehyun thinks they might pass out.

The kiss slowly turns hot, needy. Taehyun’s breath hitches as Soobin takes the lead, prodding her tongue against the seam of their lips, asking for permission. They gladly give it to her, parting their lips and allowing her to lick into their mouth like a woman starved of touch.

The hand on their thigh grips tighter, snaking its way under their thigh and pulling until they're almost in her lap. Taehyun can't breathe, chest tightening. Everything is happening too fast.

They pull back.

“I don't want to have sex.” They blurt out, looking Soobin in the eye.

She immediately pulls back, putting space between them. “Okay. We won't then.”

Soobin says it like it's the simplest thing in the world.

No ‘Why not’ or ‘Am I not enough?’ She didn't force herself onto them, or beg them to ‘just let me use you, it'll only be a minute.’

“But.. You wanted to, no?” They ask warily. Guilt crawling up their throat.

“Well, yeah, of course. You're like, the hottest person I've ever seen.” She giggles out. “But I can deal with myself later, it's fine. I won't force anything on you.”

Taehyun shakes their head quickly. “No, wait, uhm, I can help you out? I don't want.. To be touched. And my clothes are staying on. But I can help you.” They suggest.

They feel bad leaving her hanging, even though they didn't really initiate anything. And if they've thought of seeing her cum on their fingers every time they got off ever since they met her, no one has to know.

“No, uh, you don't have to. I'm fin-”

“I want to.” Taehyun interrupts. “I really want to. Please?”

Soobin leans in closer, not quite close enough. “You sure?” She asks, voice incredibly gentle.

“Mhm. Wouldn't have suggested it if I wasn't.”

That's all she needed to hear. In a second, her lips are on theirs again, slower than their first kiss, more deliberate. It takes Taehyun a moment to catch up, to melt into the kiss, more relaxed now.

They feel hands wrap around their waist, hesitant and slow. It's dizzying, the way Soobin's hands are big enough to fully wrap around their waist.

Taehyun's hands travel down to her hips, holding her firmly and pulling her closer. Soobin understands, sitting up and moving to sit on their lap, straddling their hips. She wraps her arms around their neck, smirking as she grinds against them.

The two only part when they run out of air. Taehyun takes the opportunity to mouth down Soobin's jaw, trailing all the way down to her neck, leaving messy, open-mouthed kisses anywhere they can reach. Their hands slowly slide up under her shirt, holding and creasing her waist with their thumbs.

“You smell so good.” Taehyun murmurs against her neck. “Noona.” They add on, nibbling at the column of her throat.

“Yeah? Noona smells good?” Soobin sighs out, tangling her hands in their hair.

Taehyun nods, pulling away to look up at her. “Can I leave marks, noona?”

Soobin groans, her grip on their hair tightening as she nods. “Yeah, baby. Go ahead.”

They grin in response, diving back into her neck, leaving love bites all over, pulling the collar of her shirt down to bite and suck on her collarbone.

Soobin sighs out a moan, her hips jerking forward. “So good, Tyunie.”

Taehyun preens under her praise, biting and sucking harder, hoping to mark Soobin's skin forever. Make her theirs.

They slide their hands up higher. Slow and deliberate. Feeling her up, memorising her body. They tug her shirt up a bit, leaning down to kiss and bite over her stomach.

“So pretty, unnie.” They whisper, more to themself than to her. Earning a giggle in response.

“Take it off, honey.” She says, looking down at them. Taehyun obeys immediately, pulling her shirt up all the way up and over her head. And Taehyun feels all the air get knocked out of their lungs.

Holy fucking shit.

If they had a dick it would be so hard right now.

Soobin's wearing a black lace bra, matching the hair draping over her shoulders. And Taehyun is truly no better than a man.

“Can I touch, noona?” They ask her. Plead her. “Please?”

“So polite” She coos, petting their head almost mockingly. “Go ahead, darling.”

Taehyun doesn't need to be told twice. They grab one of her boobs in one hand, latching onto the other with their mouth, sucking it through her bra. Pulling out a whine from the older.

Soobin tangles her hand in their hair, tugging desperately, pushing their head forward, practically suffocating them with her chest. Taehyun would die a happy, happy person there.

“Take off my bra.” She says, her voice demanding yet the soft edge is still present. 

They hastily reach behind her to unclasp her bra with one hand. Taking it off her and throwing it somewhere on the floor.

Soobin tugs at their hair again, making them look up as she leans down to kiss them. And it's a mess of teeth and saliva. She takes the ring wrapped around their lip between her teeth and pulls.

Taehyun hisses, biting her lip in retaliation.

They run their hands down her body, slipping their fingers right under her waistband. They pull away just enough to ask. “Can I?”

“Yeah.” She breathes out before connecting their lips again.

Taehyun slips their hand under her waistband, over her underwear, rubbing over her clothed clit. She's already so wet, soaking up her panties. Taehyun moans at the feeling.

“Unnie.. So wet.” It's as if they're the one being touched. Their voice strained and desperate.

“Yeah. For you, sweetheart. Been wanting this for a while.” She chuckles. “Will you make it worth the wait, hm?”

The softness in her voice is slowly wearing out, edges turning sharper. Meaner. Taehyun's getting wetter.

Taehyun nods so fast they almost get whiplash. “I promise. I'll be good. I'll make it good for you.”

“Go on, then. Don't make me wait any longer.”

It's scary in a way. How mean she sounds. Taehyun's only ever heard her speak softly, her voice sickeningly sweet. Yet, the tone she's speaking in right now is anything but. It's almost condescending. Patronizing. It sends shivers through their body.

They push her panties to the side, dipping a finger between her folds. Soobin immediately hisses.

Taehyun pauses, afraid they had hurt her.

“Noona?”

“Your rings. Cold. ‘s okay, keep going.” She encourages.

“You sure?” Taehyun pushes. “I can take them off.”

“If you move your fingers anywhere other than inside my pussy I will get up and walk out of this apartment, Kang. Don't test me.”

Well then.

Taehyun does just that. Well, almost. They circle their finger around her clit for a moment, slicking it up with how wet she is, before slowly pushing it against her hole, teasing.

Soobin whines, moving her hips forward. “Don't tease.”

They let out a laugh that's more of a huff than anything, finally pushing their finger in. They hear Soobin sigh in relief above them, encouraging them to slowly start moving their finger.

“More, Tyun-ah. Add another.”

They add another finger in, leaning up to kiss and bite over her chest as they work her open, curling their fingers inside her, soaking in the warm feeling of her wrapped around them.

Until Soobin grabs their wrist, pausing their movement. Taehyun stops kissing her chest, pulling back to look up at her, afraid they did something wrong.

“Unnie?”

“Wanna ride your fingers, baby.”

Taehyun, honest to god, almost comes untouched right there.

“Just hold your hand there, I'll do all the work, hm?”

They nod in response, not trusting their voice to come out steady. Soobin rolled her hips against their fingers. Whining, biting her lip to muffle her moans.

Soobin rides their fingers, moaning around them like she’s wanted this for years instead of a few months. And Taehyun stares. They can't take their eyes off of her. She's the most beautiful sight they've ever laid eyes on.

They tell her so.

“Thank you, baby. You're gorgeous, too.” She smiles down at them.

Then, a beat later “Kai, too.”

Their breath hitches. Not daring to move an inch.

“She's so pretty, isn't she?” Soobin continues. Her voice shaking slightly with pleasure. “Bet she'd love to see you like this.”

Taehyun's still frozen as she rides their fingers faster, rougher. Her hands grab their shoulders, her nails digging into them through their shirt, grounding them. It snaps them out of the daze they're in. They thrust their fingers up meeting the rhythm of her hips.

“So good, Tyunie. You'd be so good to her, too.”

She clenches around their fingers, they feel a little out of their mind. Her voice gets higher and it's the only warning Taehyun gets before she comes. And they feel it all over them, on their hand and in their bones, like they're the one who came.

They look at each other for a moment, panting, chests heaving. Then they break out into a fit of giggles, Soobin leaning over to rest her head on their shoulder. Both taking a minute to catch their breath.

“All good?” Taehyun asks when Soobin stays silent for a beat too long.

She giggles again and nods her head. “Yeah. So good.”

She pulls back, looking them in the eye again. Her gaze is soft and loving and Taehyun feels overwhelmed being on the receiving end of it. They let out a sequel of surprise when she leans in to kiss their lips. They kiss slow and sloppy.

“You sure you don't want me to get you off? Eat you out, maybe?” Soobin whispers against their lips, her breath hitting their mouth with each word.

“‘m sure.” They breathe out. “I could eat you out, though. If you're up for it?”

“Jesus, Tyun. Let a girl rest a little.” She groans out, connecting their lips again.

Despite her words, Soobin rolls her hips down, grinding against Taehyun and licking into their mouth. Her fingers find their way to Taehyun's hair again, pulling lightly. Taehyun sucks in a harsh breath.

They grab her hips, guiding her off their lap and laying her down on the couch, settling between her legs. Soobin goes easily, her body almost limp. Docile.

“Binnie? We can just go to bed if you're tired.” Taehyun offers, noticing her drop in energy. They don't want to overwhelm her.

“I need you, Tyun. I'm good, promise.” She was practically shaking, pulling them impossibly closer with the hand in their hair.

Who is Taehyun to deny her anything?

They kiss down her throat, down her chest, her stomach. Fingers skating along her sides. They stop right over her waistband to suck and bite until her skin turns shades of red and purple.

“What would Kai think if she saw you like this, hm?”

Taehyun doesn't know why she keeps mentioning the other. They don't know why it turns them on so much. The moan they involuntarily slip out sends vibrations up her body, making her shiver.

“Would you want her to see me?” They retort quickly. Witty.

“I want to see you two together.” She answers back just as fast.

Taehyun pulls themself up to kiss her, harsh and fast. Her hands wrap around their neck and she fucking smirks into the kiss, making them groan against her lips. Taehyun kinda hates her for that. Kinda.

They drop their hands down to her waistband, pulling back just enough to ask softly. “Can I take these off?”

Gentle hands, gentle voice, gentle heart. It's all suddenly so gentle, all the lust and heat from before melting away. Taehyun's heart immediately softening when Soobin's face comes into view.

"Please." Soobin whispers, and they smile against her mouth in lieu of a reply.

Gently, they help her out of her pants and underwear, Soobin lifting her hips to make it easier. They throw her pants somewhere behind them without looking, they settle down on their stomach between her legs.

Taehyun kisses all over her bare thighs, lips as light as a feather, spreading her legs wider. Soobin sighs, biting her lip to keep quiet.

Taehyun can't have that.

They move up just enough to tug her lip out of her mouth with their thumb, gasping as she takes their thumb into her mouth, sucking on it instead.

"Fuck, unnie." Taehyun moans at the sight, pushing down on her tongue, shoving their thumb deeper into her mouth. Soobin closes her eyes, humming and whining around their finger and Taehyun indulges her for a while.

“Pretty girl.” They mumble, pulling their finger out, earning a whine from the girl underneath them.

Taehyun drags their thumb down her body, leaving a wet trail of her saliva behind. They stop right above her pussy, pressing down. So close, yet not close enough.

“Tae, come on.” She shifts her hips, trying to get any sort of pleasure.

Taehyun presses her hip down with their free hand, keeping her still as they finally rub their thumb over her clit, circling it and slicking their finger up.

They lean in, replacing their thumb with their mouth, and lick over her hole experimentally, testing the waters.

Soobin's entire body trembles in response, half from the feeling of Taehyun’s mouth against her, half from the sight of her between her legs.

Taehyun looks up at her as they lick her cunt, lapping at her clit. Soobin moans, high pitched and drawn out. She bucks her hips up to meet Taehyun's mouth, despite the hand holding her down.

“Shit, baby. So good.” Soobin's voice shakes, her legs trembling.

She hums loudly, hands grabbing the couch's cushions like her life depends on it as Taehyun plunges their tongue inside her. Taehyun’s mouth warm against her. Unrelenting and wet.

Her legs involuntarily clap shut, trapping Taehyun's head there. They bring their ring-clad hands to grip onto her thighs, forcing her legs apart.

Soobin's hips stutter as Taehyun sucks her clit hard and she comes, mouth open in a silent scream. Taehyun doesn't pull back, though. Sucking and swallowing her up, slipping a finger in her.

“Tyun. Tyun, fuck- Tae please. Too much.” She chants out, her back arching off the couch.

Taehyun pays her no mind, fucking their finger in and out of her as they lick all over, addicted to her taste. Soobin squirms in overstimulation, back arching off the couch, hands gripping the cushions impossibly tighter.

And then, to Taehyun's delight, she fucking squirts, clear liquid spraying all over Taehyun's face. They drink it up hungrily, licking up every last drop.

Soobin’s body falls limp on the couch. Sweaty and panting in an attempt to catch her breath. Taehyun finally pulls back, moving up and pressing a tender kiss to her forehead, then collapsing down next to her, well, almost fully on top of her. Their couch is not wide enough for two bodies to lay side-by-side.

The two lay there, exchanging lazy kisses and hushed praises for a while until Soobin exclaims -whines- that she's tired. Taehyun happily carries her to their bed, wipes her down, and helps her into one of their shirts. They grab her a cup of water and plug in her phone, setting it down on the nightstand.

“So sweet, Tyunie” She coos, a little teasing, mostly earnest.

Taehyun half smiles, turning their back towards her and heading towards the light switch, turning the lights off. The room is slightly illuminated by the city lights peeking through the curtains.

“Uhm. Soobin?” They call out in the dark, they can faintly make out her head peaking out from the covers, facing them.

“Yes, baby?”

“I need to take off my binder. Can you not look, please?” Their voice sounds horribly small. Vulnerable. They hate it.

“Of course, darling.” She dramatically hides under the covers. “I can't see! I swear!” She calls out, her voice muffled by the covers. Taehyun laughs at her. So stupid. Silly.

They quickly pull off their shirt, followed by their binder, and throw on a pair of sweats and a loose t-shirt and walk towards the bed to find Soobin still hiding under the sheets.

Taehyun thinks they could so easily fall in love with her.

“I'm done, Binnie” They pull back the covers away from her face and get in next to her. "Spoon me?" They ask, tentatively.

Being little spoon is the only position they could be in where Soobin wouldn't have to come in contact with their boobs. Taehyun would like her to never do so. They don't say that out loud.

"'course, honey. Come here." Her arms were already wide open before the words fully escaped her grinning lips.

Laying down on top of her arm, back towards her, Soobin's free arm immediately snakes its way around their waist. They settle their own arms atop of hers and try not to shiver when she nuzzles into their nape.

“Hi.” Soobin giggles out, her breath grazing the back of their neck as she speaks.

“Hi.” Taehyun says, smiling despite themself.

“May I sleep over? I never asked.” She asks. And Taehyun can practically hear her grin.

“Hmm… Let me think about it” They reply, pretending to think for a moment before breaking character and giggling.

The two laugh, wrapped in each other, warm even in the cool winter night. Taehyun really doesn't know if they've ever been more happy and comfortable around someone other than Hueningkai.

Once they settle down a bit, Taehyun snuggles into her arm, closing their eyes and yawning. Soobin tugs them in closer, hooking her chin over their shoulder and whispering a soft ‘Goodnight’ into their neck.

Taehyun falls asleep quicker than they ever had in the past ten years.

𓂃˖˳·˖ ִֶָ ⋆🌷͙⋆ ִֶָ˖·˳˖𓂃 ִֶָ

Soobin wakes up, in an unfamiliar bed, to the sweet smell of food. She gets up and out of bed with a soft smile on her face as the memory of last night's events floods through her mind.

Making her way to the bathroom to freshen up, Soobin spots Taehyun in the kitchen. They're standing over the stove, making eggs, if Soobin can judge by the smell.

They're humming a random melody when they feel two slim arms wrap around them. Soobin rests her cheek on their shoulder, her long hair falling over their front.

“Good morning.” Taehyun greets, voice low.

They turn to kiss her cheek. The two smiling at each other like idiots. Soobin echoes their greeting, nuzzling her face into their neck.

Taehyun plates their breakfast – eggs and toast – with Soobin clinging to them. It's a bit of a struggle to move around but Taehyun would rather die than ask her to let go.

She eventually has to, though, to take a seat next to Taehyun on the couch because they ‘Never have anyone over so I didn't think I needed a dining table.’

“Thank you for breakfast, honey.” Soobin smiles sweetly.

“‘Course. It's nothing.”

They eat in silence for a while until Taehyun clears their throat, setting their fork down on their plate, alerting Soobin, who immediately looks up, giving them all her attention.

“Bin. What does.. This mean for us?”

Taehyun had always been anxious about every single relationship in their life, whether it's platonic or the one romantic relationship they were in. They've always needed crystal clear labels or else they'll start spiraling.

“What do you want it to mean, Tyun?” Soobin's voice is soft, like it always is.

Taehyun yearns.

“I don't know..” They hesitate, only to fold a second later when Soobin gives them a pointed look, reading through their bullshit. “Okay maybe I do know. But, I'm… Scared.”

“Scared why?”

Soobin sets her plate on the coffee table, extending her hand out. Offering. Encouraging, even. Never pushing, though.

Taehyun takes it, squeezing.

“It's.. Complicated. With Kai and all..”

“Is it really? Or are you making it complicated?”

Taehyun flinches slightly, despite Soobin's quiet voice and soft tone. They don't have an answer.

“Tyunie, did you ever talk to Kai?” She asks when they don't reply for too long.

“No. I can't risk it being weird between us.”

The reply comes instantly, because they've thought about the situation over a thousand times in their head.

Taehyun knows if they were to ever confess, Hueningkai would most likely reject her, then everything would just be weird. It's really not in a self destructive way, Taehyun's just being logical. They've known Hueningkai for so long, Taehyun has never seen anything from her that could be interpreted as even slightly romantic.

It's okay, they've come to terms with it. They think confessing would only make things extremely awkward between them. Hueningkai would definitely feel guilty for not reappropriating their feelings and Taehyun would never forgive themself if she started distancing herself from them. They can't be selfish.

“Tyunie.. What if I talked to her? Get a feel on how she feels?” Soobin suggests softly.

In theory, it could be a good idea. But:

“You're already so convinced that she's in love with me. How could I trust your judgement?” Taehyun points out, their voice flat, but not unkind.

Soobin purses her lips. “You're right..” She pauses to think. “Do you have anyone you trust enough to do that? Would you want it?”

“I just don't see the point," They sigh out. "If she does, by some miracle, feel the same way. How can we guarantee that she'll date you? What if she makes me choose? I can't choose between you two, Bin.”

The last sentence comes out in a weird whiney breathy voice that Taehyun never knew they could make. It's kinda pathetic. Their cheeks darken slightly.

If Soobin notices, she doesn't comment on it.

“You and I both know Hueningie would never do that. Ever. She wants you to be happy, no matter what that means. Plus, polyamory comes in many forms, her and I don't have to date. You can have us both separately.”

Taehyun knows that. They read about it. They've seen similar situations online, pictured it so many times in their head. Yet, dating both Soobin and Hueningkai sounds so out of reach. So wonderful… So greedy. Taehyun feels disgusting for wanting it so badly.

“Do you want her.. Like that?” They ask hesitantly, eyes locked on their intertwined hands.

Soobin doesn't reply immediately, she takes a moment, thinks about her answer deeply, which is a trait that Taehyun loves about her, before finally sighing out a small ‘Yes’

Her answer makes Taehyun's head snap up. They'd asked out pure curiosity, not really thinking about what her answer would be.

“I do. I want you both, so bad. I'm willing to wait for you to sort things out between yourselves." She speaks up, louder. "But, I need to know if.. It's not happening. I need to know that, Taehyun. Not right now, just.. Soon. So I know where I stand and what I can do. I can wait, will wait, for a long time, if that's what it takes. But I can't wait forever”

Soobin speaks so bravely, her voice steady and firm. It makes Taehyun want to shrink into the couch.

Getting into a new relationship is scary. Getting into a new relationship with two people, – One of them being their best friend. – is even scarier. They don't wanna lose either of the two.

The situation is so scary, so much room for error. Taehyun has only ever been in one relationship before, and it didn't end very well. They doesn't trust themself to not fuck it all up again.

“I don't want to lose you.” They eventually whisper out. Grimacing and hating how small they sound.

But, Taehyun wants this so bad. No, they need it. They've never needed anything so badly in their life. And if being honest is what it takes, if ripping their heart out and placing onto the gentle, awaiting hands in front of them is what it takes, then Taehyun's ready to stretch themself thin and bleed themself dry to make it work.

“You won't. Kai and I care about you too much. I can promise you that. We just need you to trust us.”

Soobin gives their hand a comforting squeeze, her eyes horribly earnest.

“I do. I trust you with everything in me.”

It's easy for Taehyun to admit because it's true. Taehyun trusts them to take the beating heart they placed into their palms and cradle it with care, protect it from anything that would ever hurt it. They believe it wholeheartedly, and they're ready to say it out loud again and again until it's permanently engraved into Soobin's head.

“It's myself I don't trust.”

Admitting that is way harder. Taehyun thinks it's almost like they're begging for assurance. Affirmation.

“Let us do that for you, then. Allow us to trust you.”

Taehyun unconsciously moves closer, needing to feel Soobin's body all over them. They tug her arm with both of theirs, wrapping themself around it, curling up like a shrimp against her. It's grounding, giving them just enough strength to let out a small agreement.

“Okay. I'll let you.. I want to talk to Ningie. I just.. I need you there, I think.”

It all comes out as a mumbled mess, Taehyun doesn't know if Soobin even caught what they said.

“I'll be there.”

She did, apparently. Taehyun smiles.

“I don't want us to do anything until we talk to Kai, though. I can't let myself enjoy this knowing there's a chance she might want to be with us.” They croak out when the silence stretches out for too long.

“Okay. We'll wait for her. I want her to be with us, too.”

Taehyun can hear the smile in her voice, their own smile widens.

𓂃˖˳·˖ ִֶָ ⋆🌷͙⋆ ִֶָ˖·˳˖𓂃 ִֶָ

It takes Taehyun all of two days to lose patience and invite Hueningkai and Soobin over to talk.

Taehyun had worked a single shift with Hueningkai and it was excruciating having to hide something from her. Taehyun always tells her any and all passing thoughts they have, so it was very difficult to not let anything slip. They decided they needed to tell her immediately.

They didn't mention the reason they called the two girls over, though Soobin might already have a clue. Hueningkai, on the other hand, is clueless as she walks into their apartment, she's there first, unsurprisingly.

“Hi Nini.” Taehyun greets, not getting up from the couch. They might pee themself if they face her.

“Hey. What's wrong? You look nauseous.”

Damn you, Hueningkai.

“I'm fine. Just a bit tired. Soobin's coming, by the way.” They try to say it in a casual manner. Unsuccessfully.

Thankfully, Hueningkai doesn't comment on it, walking into the living room and sitting down on the opposite side of the couch. Taehyun really doesn't like how much space she's left between them. They stay silent about it.

“So, I take it the talk went well?” Hueningkai breaks the silence.

Okay, maybe they are going to face her afterall.

Taehyun sits up straighter, finally looking at her in confusion.

“What talk?” They ask with a quirk of a brow.

“The talk you two had in the storage room?” Hueningkai answers back, just as confused.

“Ohh, right… That. Uhm, yeah, you could say it did.” They say, vaguely.

“And?” Hueningkai presses, her body unconsciously leaning towards Taehyun's. “Are you dating now?!”

Taehyun needs Soobin here, now. They're panicking.

“No?” They squeak, not explaining any further.

“What the fuck, Tae?”

Taehyun winces. Hueningkai's tone isn't necessary harsh or angry, she just sounds confused. And Taehyun understands, they're kinda confused too.

“Just,” They sigh out. “Wait for her to get here. Then we'll talk.”

“You’re acting so weird. Since when do you hide stuff from me?”

Hueningkai's voice is still level, she isn't mad, maybe a bit upset. Taehyun might start crying if she got mad at them right now.

“I'm not hiding anything.” Taehyun spits out defensively.

For a flicker of a moment, Hueningkai's face falls. It's so quick Taehyun barely catches it. But they do, and it makes their stomach churn. Taehyun's never upset Hueningkai, and they aren't planning on starting now.

Just as they open their mouth to apologise, a knock echoes through the apartment.

“Must be Soobin.” They say instead, standing up and heading to the door.

“Hi.” Soobin greats with a smile, which falls the second she registers Taehyun's frown.

“What happened?” She asks in concern.

Taehyun shakes their head, gesturing to her to just come inside. Soobin does, carefully. She steps in behind them, pausing to take off her shoes and coat, and follows them to the couch, greeting Hueningkai with a small nod and a tight smile.

“Uh, I bought cookies?” She says awkwardly, setting a Tupperware full of stupidly sweet looking cookies on the coffee table as she takes a seat between the two.

“Not hungry, thanks” Taehyun dismisses.

Hueningkai, on the other hand, reaches over to grab the container, setting it on her lap and opening it, taking out two pieces and handing one to Soobin, who takes it shyly, but she doesn't take a bite.

“Okay. What is going on? Why are we so tense?” Soobin asks, breaking the tension.

“You two aren't telling me what's going on between you, and I feel very left out.” Hueningkai states, only half serious. She doesn't sound as upset anymore, yet, her pout is still present.

“Taehyun didn't tell you anything? At all?” Soobin answers with wide eyes. And, yeah, Taehyun's shocked too. 

It's so not them to not tell Hueningkai anything.

“No, not really. So, spill.” Hueningkai pushes.

Soobin turns to look at Taehyun, her gaze questioning. Even she had thought Taehyun would've told Hueningkai what happened between them by now.

Having two pairs of eyes staring at them is what it takes for Taehyun to finally break and speak up.

“Right, so.. Soobin and I talked the other day. I mean, you saw. We talked about our first date because it ended.. Badly, for lack of a better word. We made up, apologised, and decided to give it another go. I walked Soobin out and didn't find you there so, I couldn't tell you then. And it just slipped my mind after that, I guess.”

They don't look up, not once. Only pausing for a moment to catch their breath. They need to get it all out before they start either sobbing or throwing up.

“And so, Soobin came over the other day, I made her dinner, we chatted, all that jazz. It went really well this time.”

“Okay that's like, great and all, but why am I here? Now? And why did you say you two aren't dating when you're literally the definition of two people who are dating?” Hueningkai interrupts, impatiently.

Soobin glances over at Taehyun, who still won't look at either of them, and tries to think of ways to help them out. She can't blurt out a confession that is theirs to make, so she doesn't speak. Instead, she reaches out to rub their knee, encouraging them to continue.

“Because, the reason the first date didn't go well is you.”

Taehyun finally looks up at the two girls. They think it's a very brave move of them.

Hueningkai looks like her deepest darkest secret just got blasted out to the public -Which, technically, it kinda did.- But that's not as much of a problem as she might assume.

“Well, not really you. More like, our feelings towards you.” Taehyun continues. God, they're wording this horribly.

“Tae was wondering why you were so upset about us going out,” Soobin, who seems to be in a much calmer state, takes over. “So I suggested that, maybe, you might have deeper feelings than a best friend would have towards them.”

Hueningkai is silently gaping at the two, mouth wide open and eyes moving rapidly between them.

“And then, I got really mad at that and lashed out at poor Soobinie because I hadn't come to terms with the fact that I am, in fact, very deeply in love with you. And the thought of you reciprocating those feelings made me scared, which I masked with anger.” Taehyun chuckles. Even though, nothing is really funny about any of this. 

“So, what, you're leaving unnie because..?” Hueningkai tails off, throat bobbing as she swallows nervously. Her eyes darting back and forth, like she barely believes that any of this is happening.

“No. That's.. That's the part that made it so hard for me to accept how I was feeling. I like Soobin, I want to continue going out with her. But I also want to go out with you. It took me months to accept it. And I only did ‘cause Soobin knocked some sense into me and told me that it's okay. It's... Normal.” The last word almost refuses to come out. Grabbing and scratching at the walls of all the way up their throat and spilling out of their mouth like poison.

Unconsciously, somewhere in-between all that talking, their hand had slipped into Soobin's. Their fingers now intertwined, tight and warm.

“And.. What about you, unnie?”

Hueningkai asks, with a shaky voice. Her gaze is vulnerable, a little bit of fear seeping through. She still hasn't talked about what all this means to her. And to Taehyun, that's the scariest part of it all.

“I've been very fond of you since the day we met, Ningie. I think I was just too caught up with Tyun to acknowledge it.” Soobin smiles. Her words are all soft and careful.

“So what you're saying is you want me to join your relationship?” Hueningkai deadpans.

It's so out of character and extremely unbefitting, it makes Soobin tense up, looking back and forth between the other two. Taehyun, more familiar with Hueningkai’s unhinged humour, is muffling a laugh into their free hand.

“I mean, yes? Wha- Do you want that?” Soobin's words come out all quick and panicked, her hand unconsciously pulling away from Taehyun's.

All of Soobin's nerves melt away when the youngest lets out a wholehearted laugh, throwing her head back. The sound fills the room and breaks all the suffocating tension. Taehyun finally releases the laugh they were holding back.

“Yeah, I'd love to. I wouldn't have joked about it if I wasn’t interested.” Hueningkai giggles out after multiple failed attempts of stopping her laughter. “I've just always wanted to say that line, you don't even know.”

Taehyun goes silent for a long moment, just staring at the two of them with an unreadable expression on their face. Almost long enough for it to be worrying. And then, a sigh.

“Okay. We're doing this, then?” They say it like it pains them, all of their emotions bleeding out.

“Tyunie, do you not want to?” Hueningkai, suddenly very serious again, leans forward, her arm resting on Soobin's thigh as she tilts Taehyun's head to look at her with her free hand.

“I do,” They say firmly. “Just.. Nervous. Scared.”

Breathing out, they steady themself and shift closer, taking the hand on their cheek into both their hands, giving it a firm squeeze. A promise, to try.

“Okay this is sweet and all but you can't be basically on top of me for any longer unless you're planning to kiss me, Kai.” Soobin demands, very seriously.

Taehyun huffs a quiet laugh next to her, watching as a grinning Hueningkai leans more into Soobin's space, crowding her against the backrest. With one hand still between Taehyun's, she only has one hand to grab Soobin's nape and tug her closer.

Her pink hair drapes forward, falling onto Soobin's face, making her giggle and reach up to tuck it behind Hueningkai's ear. Her hand ending up on Hueningkai's cheek.

They're both teasing each other, Taehyun can tell. Can see it in their stupid smiles, the glint in both of their eyes. It's beyond entertaining. They could watch the two all day.

They push and pull for a few more seconds before Soobin ultimately whines impatiently and tugs at Hueningkai's shirt, slamming their lips together.

And oh, what a beautiful sight they are together, Taehyun needs to capture them together one day, they'll beg if they have to. Taehyun assumes this is the sight people are greeted by at the gates of heaven. Not like they would ever be able to know.

A tug from the hand between theirs makes them scoot closer, their knee touching Soobin's thigh. They're so close they can see tongues prodding and teeth biting. It's blissful.

When Hueningkai eventually pulls back, her eyes, full of want, immediately dart to Taehyun. They grin, pull her fully onto Soobin's lap with their grip on her arm, and smash their lips together. No time wasted. 

All the times they've imagined this, the days spent daydreaming, the nights spent picturing what it could be like to have her lips on theirs, all don't come anywhere near the actual thing.

Hueningkai's lips are soft against their chapped ones, her soft hair brushing over their cheeks as she tilts her head, deepening the kiss. Hueningkai's free hand finds their cheek and creases it. So, so gentle. Taehyun can almost physically feel their chest cracking open, their heart exposing itself to her touch.

They pour their all into it, all the years of yearning and hoping, all the jealousy, the desire. Licking into Hueningkai's mouth and circling her waist with their arms, squeeing and pulling her as close as they possibly can.

They can only hope it all conveys to her.

They feel more than hear the exhale coming from their side, reminding them that they're not alone, snapping them out of the haze they're in. Reluctantly, Taehyun breaks the kiss, pulling back just enough for their lips to part, yet every other part of their bodies are flush together. Feeling all lightheaded and giddy, they lay their head on Soobin's shoulder, unable to hold it up alone. Needing to be close to her, too.

“I think I'm gonna pass out.” They breathe out, quivering.

Soobin's giggles shake them, while Hueningkai's weight on top of them grounds them. It's perfect. Taehyun loves them so much he’s sick with it.

𓂃˖˳·˖ ִֶָ ⋆🌷͙⋆ ִֶָ˖·˳˖𓂃 ִֶָ

They stay over, both of them. It's a tight fit, the three of them on Taehyun's bed. They make it work, though.

They're awoken by Taehyun's alarm blaring. Well, Hueningkai and Taehyun are. Soobin stays fast asleep, tangled up between them. Her hair is splayed out and her breathing is even, peaceful.

Taehyun sits up, resting on their elbows, and allows themself to stare for a moment, taking in the pretty girls in their bed. They feel so lucky.

Hueningkai is awake, but she's still laying down, clinging to Soobin's side. They look pretty together. Taehyun kinda wants to take a picture, keep the sight forever.

They do when Hueningkai’s eyes fall shut again. Careful not to startle either of the girls, they fetch their camera and snap a few shots, smiling softly at the screen.

Taehyun's not sure what they are now, but that can wait. Just for today. They'll let themself enjoy being surrounded by the two girls they cherish the most today. They can ask for explanations and labels later.

Taehyun lets the two sleep for a little longer, taking the chance to stare at the photos of them together, in Taehyun's bed. Their cheeks hurt with how wide they're smiling, thinking about transferring it to their phone and making it their wallpaper. Would that be creepy? Hell, was taking the photo in the first place creepy? Should they ask?

They will. They'll definitely ask.

Taehyun wills themself to actually get ready for the day, washing up and brushing their teeth, stepping back into the bedroom to grab their binder and slip it on before finally waking the sleeping girls up.

Hueningkai had drifted again but she's always been a light sleeper so waking her up wasn’t any trouble. Soobin on the other hand, was a whole challenge.

Taehyun called her name softly once, twice, three times. Nudges her slightly. Nothing. Soobin's still dead asleep. Hueningkai giggles next to her and shakes her, calling her name a bit louder. Soobin whines but her eyes stay shut.

Hueningkai doesn't give up. Instead, she rolls on top of the sleeping girl, giggling and trying to shake her awake. She leans down, whispers and blows air into Soobin's ear. She finally flinches, her eyes fluttering open, face painted with confusion.

“Morning, bun.” Hueningkai says, kissing her cheek. “Heavy sleeper, hm?”

Soobin's cheeks darken, she mumbles out a ‘Yeah, sorry’ and sits up, Hueningkai now sitting on her lap.

“Up, you two. If you don't wanna be late” Taehyun tuts gently, no real bite in behind their words.

They get a nod and a groan in response which they deem good enough, and they head to the kitchen to brew a pot of coffee and make breakfast for all of them.

Since Taehyun isn't sure what Soobin eats, they decide on breakfast sandwiches, since they're the most customisable. Leaving hers for last, They make Hueningkai's and theirs and by the time they're done, Soobin's walking out in Hueningkai's clothes.

Taehyun's closet houses two whole drawers full of Hueningkai's clothes as a result of how often she stays over. They can't really complain since her closet has about the same amount of their clothes.

Plus, Hueningkai's clothes came in handy.

Taehyun definitely doesn't have anything Soobin would enjoy wearing. Their clothes are all dark colours and loosely fitted. Baggy cargo shorts and jerseys. Whereas Soobin's wardrobe is mostly made up of pastels and floral prints. Short skirts and flowy dresses. Hueningkai's clothes suit her more. She looks pretty in them.

“Good morning. I'm making sandwiches, wasn't sure what you'd like in yours, so I left it for last.” They explain as she sits down on the counter.

“‘morning. Just eggs and cheese. Bacon, if you have any.” She seems half asleep still, her response quiet and slurred.

Taehyun can't help the smile tugging at their lips. They find her way too cute.

“Here, have mine. It's how you want it. I'll make another one for myself.” They slide the plate towards her.

“Huh, no, why? It's yours.” She sits up more, her lips all pouty as she nudging the plate back to them.

“Bun, you're ready to eat, and that one's nice and warm. I still need to make another sandwich, so it'll be cold by the time I sit down to eat it. I'll just have the last one.” Their smile grows as they talk, it's all so stupid. They hate it a little.

“Oh. Yeah, that makes more sense.” She nods to herself slowly.

“Glad we could agree.” Taehyun pushes the plate back to her and turns to work on their own sandwich.

Not even a minute later, Hueningkai comes out. She's dressed and her hair is tidied up into a cute half updo. She comes up behind Taehyun, wrapping her arms around their waist and resting her cheek on their shoulder.

“Breakfast is ready, go eat before it gets cold.” Taehyun taps her arms, swatting her away.

“Wow, way to treat your girlfriend.” She scoffs, no real bite to her voice.

Taehyun freezes for a second, turning to the side to glance at Soobin, who was happily munching on her sandwich, unphased.

So much for just enjoying the day today.

“Is that what you are now?” They ask, masking their anxiety with a teasing tone. Or, well, attempting to.

It earns them a kiss on the cheek. “Yes. It is.”

Hueningkai knows Taehyun enough to know that they tend to overthink and second-guess everything. Her firm, immediate response eases Taehyun's mind.

“Soobin, too?” Taehyun can't help but ask. Just to make sure.

“Hu- Oh. Yeah. Yeah, obviously.”

Taehyun laughs at her immense focus on the sandwich, it's sweet, really, how much she's enjoying it. Her hair is a mess and there's cheese on the corner of her lips. Absolutely beautiful.

They swat Hueningkai away from them again and she grudgingly goes this time, letting them finish up their sandwich and head over to the couch to take a seat in the empty space between her and Soobin.

Breakfast passes in a comfortable silence, only a few exchanged words between the trio about schedules and plans for the day.

Taehyun asks. They show Soobin and Hueningkai the picture with crimson cheeks. 'I'll delete it if it's too much. You guys just looked too cute' they'd explained, immediately hearing protests and reassurance.

It's easy to fall into conversation again, once Taehyun's worries are settled, and they couldn't be any more grateful for the lack of heaviness in the air. Their worries weren't downplayed, nor were they blown out of proportion. They had been taken seriously, yet, the atmosphere was never suffocating or tense. 

The food is long gone by now, yet none of them made a move to get up. Choosing to bask in each other's presence for a while before facing the real world again.

“What if.. You two come back here after work and we have a little date night?” Taehyun suggests, when none of them speak for a long while, in a small voice. Hesitant.

“We could, yeah.” Soobin agrees, a wide grin plastered on her face. Her tone is only slightly teasing.

“I can bring back some cake and we can have a small celebration for our first day together?” She continues, her grin only growing wider.

It's all so silly. They're in their late 20s, no longer stupid lovesick teenagers. Yet, Taehyun can't find it in them to refuse. Not when Soobin's smiling so widely at the idea.

“Oh! And we can bring back flowers! As decorations or… Something.” Hueningkai speaks up from their other side, her cheeks flushing in embarrassment halfway through her sentence.

“Sure, baby. We'll bring back flowers.” Taehyun knows the look adorning their face is probably disgustingly fond. They don't really mind it.

𓂃˖˳·˖ ִֶָ ⋆🌷͙⋆ ִֶָ˖·˳˖𓂃 ִֶָ

They bring flowers.

Three bouquets, One by Hueningkai for Taehyun, a mix of Forget-me-nots and Lilies of the valley, blue and white. Another by Taehyun for Hueningkai, roses in yellow, baby blue, purple and light pink, with a few tiny daisies scattered in between. The last by the both of them for Soobin, purple and pink hydrangeas surrounded by baby’s breath.

It's too much, way too many flowers. ‘It’s our first day together, Tyunie. We deserve it.’ Hueningkai reasons, and Taehyun can't argue with that.

Taehyun knows they're never going to be able to say no to either Soobin or Hueningkai, they've accepted it. They're going to have to live with being (willingly) pushed around by the two for the rest of their life.

They wouldn't have it any other way.