Chapter 1: Prologue
Chapter Text
Kitty didn’t have a plan as she sped down the sidewalk to the sculpture garden. Her mind raced with everything she wanted to say—and everything she didn’t know how to. She was overwhelmed with feelings. Feelings that were… romantic.
This shouldn’t be such an unusual feeling for Kitty. She'd had her fair share of crushes, two of which had turned into love. She knew she loved Dae when they dated, and then there was Yuri. She thought those feelings would stay at the crush level, but they became so overwhelming—what else could it be but love?
But this—this was different. Something Kitty had never felt before. Calling it a crush felt a bit childish. But calling it love? That was something she couldn't wrap her head around.
She remembered the night she talked to Min-ho Moon for the first time since his impromptu love confession on the plane ride—when he admitted he’d mistaken his feelings for love, brushing them off as nothing more than a crush. She remembered the drop in her stomach when he said it. At the time, she blamed it on a bruised ego. After all, someone had declared they were head over heels for her, only to say they were over it in less than a month. That stung.
But now, looking back, she wondered. Maybe it wasn’t just her ego that was hurt. Maybe something inside her was starting to shift. Starting to feel something. Something real. Something romantic. For Min-ho Moon.
Her quickening pace came to a halt. There he was, just a few feet away.
Last semester, Kitty would have said Min-ho was a rude, self-absorbed, rich jerk. But now? She wouldn’t say any of those things about him. Well—maybe the rich part. After all, he flew her sister and grandma across the globe in a luxury private jet. How do you even begin to thank someone for something like that?
Kitty cleared her throat, trying to steady herself as much as her voice. She stepped up beside him.
“So, it's true.”
Min-ho turned to her, and Kitty felt a flicker of relief at the soft smile he wore. A month ago, they had barely been speaking—thanks to Stella. And sure, Kitty had been right to be suspicious of her psycho roommate, but she wished she hadn’t been. It had hurt Min-ho.
She wished she could’ve solved the whole mess on her own—kept him from getting dragged into it. More than anything, she really wished she had never given Stella his phone number.
“Covey, what are you doing here?”
She felt heat rise on her cheeks and suddenly wondered if Peter had a point when he teased her about Min-ho calling her by her last name.
“Q told me you’ve been walking out here.”
“Just trying to clear my head before I go.”
The semester officially ended today, so Kitty assumed Min-ho would be heading to LA for the summer to visit his mother. She herself was leaving next week to stay with her family in Portland, but Min-ho hadn’t really talked about his plans with her.
“Go? Go where?”
“I’m leaving tonight. With Joon Ho and my dad. On their big summer tour.”
That was not what Kitty expected Min-ho to say at all.
“Oh. Wow. Q did not tell me that.”
“Well, it was a last-minute decision. I figure it’ll give me a chance to bleach Stella from my brain. I’m swearing off all relationships. I think I was better off as a playboy.”
And there it was again—the drop in her stomach.
Kitty hadn’t planned to ambush Min-ho, confess everything she’d been dreaming about (literally and figuratively), or get down on one knee and ask him out right here. In fact, she hadn't known what she was going to do at all when she ran off to look for him. But hearing that Min-ho was swearing off relationships? That put her running thoughts to a sudden stop.
“Wait. Why were you looking for me?”
Min-ho was still smiling at her, completely unaware of the effect his words had on her. Then again, Kitty wasn’t sure she fully understood it herself.
“Oh. Right. Um… I just wanted to tell you…”
She stuttered over her words. What did she want to say? Now she understood why Lara Jean wrote love letters to figure out her feelings.
Kitty was at a loss, staring at Min-ho’s gentle smile as he waited for her response. Then she remembered—he had just gotten out of a relationship with a girl who had used him in a revenge plot that nearly destroyed his entire family. How could she admit her feelings for him now? When he was hurting? She couldn’t.
“I’m coming back next year.”
“That’s great, Covey.” He seemed genuinely happy that she was returning to KISS for their senior year. “The car should be here any minute now. I should probably get going.”
Kitty didn’t know how to respond. She hadn’t expected to say goodbye to the boy who had done so much for her this soon.
“Have a good trip.”
“Thanks. See you next year?”
“Yeah,” she stammered. She didn’t know why, but she felt genuinely sad that Min-ho was leaving. And he must have noticed, because suddenly, his arms were wrapping around her.
Kitty wasn’t sure exactly when their relationship had become so physical. Last semester, they wouldn’t even have given each other high fives, but now? Hugging has become a regular thing.
Min-ho rested his head against her hair, and Kitty leaned into the embrace, shutting her eyes and nestling into his arms. If she truly wasn’t going to see him until August, she was going to make this moment count.
But it was over far too soon. As they pulled apart, their hands lingered—another touch Kitty had become familiar with. She swallowed back all the words she wanted to say.
Min-ho gave her one last, slight smile as he turned to walk away. Maybe it wasn’t their time. Not yet.
Or maybe…
“Wait!” Kitty blurted out, realizing she definitely should have written a letter like LJ to figure out her feelings. Because what she suggested next could only mean she was losing her mind.
“Can I join you?”
She had no idea what she was doing. She already had tickets booked to go to Portland. But she couldn’t say goodbye to Min-ho. Not right now.
Min-ho’s lips curled into a slight smirk, and he tilted his head, gesturing for her to come with him.
With no idea what she was agreeing to, Kitty didn’t hesitate.
Notes:
Hi everyone! This is my very first fanfic and I'm so excited I have so many ideas. I know all XO, Kitty fans have all seen this scene but I wanted to set up my writing and Kitty’s feelings! Comments will be so appreciated, suggestions and ideas are so welcome. Also a one bed trope will be in this story in the next couple chapters for people who enjoy that! I will update this story frequently so please give your support!
Chapter 2: No Turning Back
Chapter Text
Kitty had no idea what she was doing.
One second, she was saying goodbye to Min-ho, and the next, she was sprinting back to her dorm and shoving clothes in her suitcase like she was competing in some kind of Olympic event for chaotic packing.
Hoodies, skirts, socks—no organization whatsoever. The only thing running through her mind was that Min-ho’s car was already on the way, and she had minutes to prepare for an entire Summer trip.
Min-ho followed her inside, leaning against the doorframe with an amused smirk. “So this is what a nervous breakdown looks like.”
Kitty shot him a glare. “We do not have time for your commentary.”
Min-ho ignored her and strolled over to her suitcase, picking up a long sleeve cardigan she had just tossed in. “You do realize we’re going to Japan first, right? Tokyo? Peak summer? And you’re packing sweaters?”
Kitty snatched the cardigan from his hands. “Okay, well, excuse me for not having pre-packed for a spontaneous international tour.”
He chuckled, having to quickly step aside as she ran to her closet, yanking clothes off hangers in complete chaos.
“Seriously, Covey, this is actually painful to watch.”
Kitty didn’t respond—she was too focused on her mission.
Or at least, she was—until she grabbed a pile of clothes off the top shelf and something small and silky tumbled out of it and landed right at Min-ho’s feet.
Kitty froze.
Min-ho’s smirk vanished.
The item—a lacy, very un-Covey-like bra—lay in the middle of the floor between them.
The room was dead silent.
Kitty’s brain stopped functioning.
Min-ho’s eyebrows shot up. He glanced between her and the item on the floor, the corners of his mouth twitching like he was desperately holding back a snarky comment.
Kitty dove for it, mortified. “Don’t say a word.”
Min-ho raised his hands in mock innocence. “Didn’t say anything.”
She shoved it to the bottom of her suitcase. “You’re thinking about it.”
“Oh, definitely thinking about it,” Min-ho said, his grin fully returning. “Didn’t know you owned—”
“Shut up.”
His laugh was way too casual for Kitty as she felt her cheeks burning.
Kitty zipped up her suitcase and picked up her backpack to start shoving all of her necessities into it when a FaceTime started ringing on her laptop.
“Oh,” Kitty said, stomach dropping. “Right. That.”
Min-ho tilted his head to peek at the screen. “Oh this - this is going to be good.”
Kitty swallowed hard before hitting ‘accept,’ and suddenly, her dad’s face filled the screen, with her stepmom Trina leaning in behind him.
“Hey, kiddo!” her dad said brightly, before his expression turned suspicious. “Wait. Why does it look like you’re in the middle of a crime scene?”
Kitty gave him a sheepish smile. “Funny story…”
Trina squinted. “And who is that?”
Min-ho stepped out from behind Kitty’s shoulder and gave the camera a small wave, “Hey, Mr. and Mrs.Covey.”
Trina could not hide the amusement on her face. “Oh that’s Min-ho Dave! You know-” she nudged her husband's shoulder “-the one from the plane!”
Min-ho immediately knew what Trina was talking about. The moment that replays in his mind everyday. The moment that Kitty Song Covey rejected him.
He tried to remain composed by swaying on his feet while his eyes flicked nervously between Kitty and the laptop.
Kitty rolled her eyes. “Okay, so don’t freak out, but… I may have made a small, tiny, spontaneous decision.”
Her dad’s expression darkened. “Oh no.”
Trina’s eyes sparked with interest. “Oh yes.”
Kitty took a deep breath. “I’m…going on tour with Min-ho and his dad.”
There was silence.
Then, her dad blinked. “You’re what?”
“It’s just for the summer!” Kitty rushed to explain. “It’s a great opportunity! I’ll get to travel, and—”
“Travel with Min-ho?” her dad interrupted. “Alone?”
“I’m not alone!” Kitty huffed. “Joon Ho and Mr. Moon will be there. There’s a whole team. It’s completely professional.”
Her dad sighed, rubbing his temples. “Kitty, are you sure about this?”
Trina leaned in, nudging him. “Oh, come on, Dan. She’s young! Let her have an adventure.”
Her dad groaned. “Adventures always seem to involve boys.”
Kitty groaned back. “Dad, please.”
There was a long pause before he exhaled deeply. “Fine. But call me. A lot.”
“I will,” Kitty promised.
“And no funny business,” he added, eyeing Min-ho.
Min-ho just smiled, the picture of innocence. “Wouldn’t dream of it, sir.”
Kitty tried to hide her growing blush while she quickly said goodbye and finished packing.
—
The drive to the airport was tense. Kitty kept glancing at Min-ho, processing everything.
Min-ho drummed his fingers against the car door. “So… you really just decided this on a whim?”
Kitty exhaled. “I don’t know. It just… felt right.”
He nodded slowly, then smirked. “You’re lucky my dad likes you. Most people don’t get invited on billionaire world tours.”
Kitty laughed. “Yeah, I’m totally the exception.”
Min-ho turned to her, eyes softening. “Maybe you are.”
Kitty’s heart felt like it was about to beat out of her chest. Min-ho quickly cleared his throat.
“Or maybe this is just his way of repaying you for preventing the fall of his precious empire.”
He flipped open his phone and started typing. Probably texting his brother Joon Ho about the unexpected tag a long he was bringing on the trip. Kitty leaned on her suitcase that was squished between the two of them and stared out the window.
Well there is no turning back now.
—
The car pulled onto the tarmac and the Moon’s private driver stepped out to open Kitty’s door.
Min-ho took her backpack as the driver left to go load her suitcase. “Well, you ready?”
Kitty stared up at the massive airplane in front of her. “As ready as I'll ever be.” and the two of them borded the stairs.
Kitty already felt out of place everytime she rode in the Moon’s car. It was so luxurious, but the private jet was another world. Leather seats. Endless snacks. A full entertainment system.
Min-ho stretched out, scrolling through his phone, while Joon Ho dramatically sighed. “This trip is literally just press and business. So boring.”
Mr. Moon, across from them, barely looked up. “Joon Ho, you are one of the biggest celebrities in Korea, and you just announced not only your engagement but the fact that your fiance is pregnant. You have responsibilities.”
Joon Ho groaned. “I miss when I was just a background dancer.”
Kitty chuckled, but a thought hit her. She turned to Min-ho. “So… are you going to be, like, working on this tour?”
Min-ho snorted. “Please. My only job is looking expensive.”
Kitty rolled her eyes. “You’re so humble.”
Min-ho just smirked.
The flight was smooth, she had plenty of room to lay back and watch as many rom-coms as she pleased while pigging out on the food prepared by Mr. Moon’s private chef.
When Joon Ho and his dad were engaged in a conversation about press conference times, Min-ho turned to Kitty. “So about what your stepmom said on the phone - that I was the boy from the plane?”
Kitty choked on her drink. “Oh yeah, I'm sorry about that, I hope you don’t mind. I told my family about our conversation last Christmas.”
Min-ho was trying not to blush. “No of course I don’t mind Covey, that’s your family. I just don’t want them to have a bad impression of me and think I'm going to try and get with you on the tour.”
Kitty didn’t know how to respond to that. The last phone call she had with her stepmom was in fact all about Min-ho… and how good of an impression he had made on her.
“Oh no don’t worry about that, my family definitely likes you.”
Min-ho smiled and settled into his chair, trying not to think about what Kitty meant by that. He’d never met or spoken to her family before the phone call this afternoon, so everything they knew about him, Kitty told them. If her family liked him…. did that mean…. no. He shook the thought out of his head, him and Kitty had just become close friends over the semester, that was all.
Right?
—
Tokyo was breathtaking.
Even from the car window, Kitty could feel the energy buzzing in the air—the flashing neon signs, the towering skyscrapers, the streets teeming with life.
But the moment they reached the hotel, she realized just how much she hadn’t thought this through.
Mr. Moon had rented out an entire floor.
Security was everywhere. Staff members ran around in sleek uniforms. And when they were finally led to the penthouse suite, Kitty’s jaw nearly hit the floor.
“This is insane,” she whispered to Min-ho.
He shrugged. “Standard, really.”
She rolled her eyes. “Of course it is.”
The suite was massive, complete with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the city. The assistant leading them stopped in front of three doors.
“Mr. Moon’s room is here, Joon Ho’s is across the hall, and…” They turned to the last door. “Min-ho’s is here.”
Kitty blinked. “Where’s my room?”
The assistant glanced at her, unfazed. “You weren’t on the original guest list. You’ll be sharing with Min-ho.”
Min-ho felt his soul leave his body.
“Covey I’m so sorry, I’ll fix this”
Kitty thought about it, Min-ho and her have already shared a living space once, they were used to being around each other all the time, it really wasn’t that big of a deal.
“No it’s totally okay Min-ho, this is what happens when you make spontaneous decisions, I’m fine with sharing a room”
She chuckled, “It’s not like we are sharing a bed or anything.”
The assistant opened the door to their room, “Your bags will be delivered here shortly, let me know if you need any assistance.”
Kitty stepped inside and she felt her mouth fall open. The room was gigantic, a golden chandelier hung over a cashmere rug, the art on the wall looked like it cost more than Kitty’s entire house in Portland.
But it wasn’t the art, or the rug that Kitty was gaping at.
It was the bed that was in the center of the wall.
The singular bed.
“I spoke too soon.”
Notes:
Hey guys! I just got a registered account on Ao3, but originally wrote this on Wattpad, I already have 16 Chapters completed but don’t worry the fic is still in progress since it will go the entire length of the tour! I will post Chapters 1 - 5 on Ao3 today! Please leave your support, and suggestions are always welcome!
Chapter 3: A Night In Tokyo
Chapter Text
Min-ho set Kitty’s backpack down near the nightstand, the soft thud barely audible over the distant hum of city traffic outside the hotel window. The room smelled like expensive cologne and freshly laundered sheets, the kind of luxury that made Kitty feel even more out of place.
“Covey, don’t worry—we don’t have to share a bed. I’ll see about getting a room on one of the lower floors.”
Kitty’s stomach twisted. The joke she made earlier about there only being one bed was taunting her now. She didn’t want Min-ho to feel like he was being displaced from his own room, but at the same time, she could never fathom the idea of sleeping next to him. With the… feelings she’s been having… it might not be the best idea.
“Well, I can stay in that room then. You should stay up here; this room is meant for you.”
“Your dad would kill me if he found out you were sleeping in a random hotel room fifteen floors away from the people you’re vacationing with. You’re staying here, Covey. I’ll handle this.”
Kitty didn’t know what she was thinking, coming on this trip. She felt like she was causing problems, making Min-ho worry about things when he should be relaxing and coping with the thought of his psycho ex-girlfriend.
“Hey.” Min-ho interrupted her spiraling thoughts, his voice softer now. “I’m really happy you’re here.”
She looked up at him and gave a small, hesitant smile. “Even if I’m messing up all your plans?”
Min-ho’s lips quirked into a smile. “You’re making them better.”
Kitty felt her heart flutter. A thousand words swirled in her mind—things she wanted to say, the real reason she wanted to come on this trip. Instead, she blurted, “I need to go to the bathroom.” Real classy of her.
She turned away quickly and stepped inside, shutting the door behind her. The bathroom was somehow even fancier than the bedroom. The mirror had touch-screen settings for different lighting, and the sink gleamed as if it were made of actual gold. A stand-alone jacuzzi tub sat across from a rain shower with a digital touchscreen that looked more complicated than an airplane cockpit.
She exhaled and ran her fingers through her hair.
Kitty Song Covey was an organized person. She made twenty-page Google Docs before making any big life decisions—like moving across the world at sixteen to learn more about her mother. She didn’t do things on a whim.
Yet, she’d decided to come on this trip last minute. She hadn’t even packed a hairbrush.
Even though Min-ho had said he was happy she was here, she couldn’t shake the feeling that it was a mistake. Being in such close proximity to the boy who was stirring up all these emotions inside her wasn’t making them go away—it was making them stronger.
She heard noise coming from the bedroom and quickly wrapped up her mirror pep talk before stepping back out.
Assistants were wheeling in racks of Min-ho’s clothes, sleek designer pieces hanging neatly on velvet hangers.
She let out a laugh. “You really are made for this sort of life.”
Min-ho smirked. “Hey, just because I care about fashion doesn’t mean I’m a self-absorbed celebrity.”
Another assistant wheeled in Kitty’s suitcase and left it by the bed. She grabbed it, flipping open the top with a determined sigh. Maybe she could sort through whatever she threw in there earlier and make sense of it.
The moment she did, a chaotic mess of crumpled shirts spilled out, and she realized she had packed five pairs of pants and at least twenty-five shirts.
Panic flickered in her chest. How had she messed up this badly? Could she rotate the same jeans all summer without Min-ho noticing? Would she have to start a minimalist fashion movement out of necessity?
Min-ho peeked over her shoulder, taking in the disaster. His laugh was warm, teasing. “All right, Covey, it’s time for a shopping trip.”
He clapped his hands together, eyes twinkling. “You need a signature ‘Covey Look’ anyway, and lucky for you, I’m the perfect stylist.”
Kitty groaned, flopping onto the bed. “This is going to be humiliating, isn’t it?”
Min-ho grinned. “Oh, absolutely.”
—
Their first stop was an ultra-luxurious department store in the heart of Tokyo, its sleek glass exterior reflecting the bustling city around them. The moment they stepped inside, Kitty felt completely out of her depth. Rows upon rows of designer clothing, perfectly folded and displayed like art, stretched out before them. The air smelled of fresh leather and expensive perfume, and soft classical music played in the background.
“Okay, Covey, first rule of shopping with me—no looking at price tags,” Min-ho announced, grabbing her hand and leading her deeper into the store.
Kitty huffed. “That’s not realistic. What if something costs, like, a million yen?”
Min-ho smirked. “Then I’ll buy it for you.”
Kitty stopped in her tracks. “Min-ho—”
He rolled his eyes. “Relax, I’m joking. Mostly.”
They spent the next hour trying on ridiculous outfits, Min-ho picking out bold, high-fashion pieces while Kitty fought to find something even remotely normal. At one point, she emerged from the fitting room in an oversized blazer and knee-high boots, only for Min-ho to double over laughing.
She playfully smacked his arm. “You’re the worst.”
After a few more stores—and an unexpected sunglasses modeling competition—they stepped back out into the streets of Tokyo, their shopping bags multiplying by the minute. The neon lights flickered above, the air rich with the scent of sizzling street food.
Kitty’s stomach grumbled. “Okay, shopping break. I need food before I pass out.”
Min-ho scanned the street, then pointed to a stall selling fresh taiyaki. “Come on, Covey. Let’s get you fed before you start getting grumpy.”
She rolled her eyes but followed him, watching as he ordered two piping hot fish-shaped pastries filled with red bean paste. When he handed her one, their fingers brushed, sending a little spark up her arm.
They walked through the busy street, stopping to watch a street performer playing a shamisen, the traditional music mixing with the distant hum of the city. Min-ho glanced over, catching her watching him.
“You’re really enjoying this, huh?” he asked, nudging her playfully.
Kitty smiled, feeling the warmth of the night settle around her. “Yeah, I really am.”
And for the first time since she’d arrived, she meant it.
—
As they stepped back into the hotel suite, Kitty let out a dramatic sigh, flopping onto the bed while setting her bags down. “I think my arms are permanently sore from carrying all this.”
Min-ho scoffed, setting his own bags aside with much more grace. “Please. That was barely a warm-up. You should see how much my mom shops when she’s in Paris.”
Kitty smirked. “I’ll take your word for it. But I still think we deserve some kind of medal.”
“You have to admit, though, today was pretty fun.”
Kitty sat up from the bed, smiling. “Yeah… it really was.”
For a moment, the room was quiet, the neon glow from the city outside casting a soft light through the windows. Kitty could still feel the lingering warmth of their earlier moments—the laughter, the teasing, the way he had casually reached for her hand more than once. She knew she should say something casual, keep things light, but instead, her stomach twisted with something unfamiliar.
Before she could come up with anything, a knock at the door interrupted them. Min-ho straightened up as one of his father’s assistants stepped in, their usual professional expression in place.
“Mr. Moon,” the assistant said, glancing at Kitty briefly before continuing, “I wanted to inform you that all of the lower-level rooms are fully booked.”
Min-ho frowned. “That doesn’t make sense. There has to be something available.”
The assistant hesitated before adding, “Additionally, your father has made it clear that neither you nor Miss Covey will be staying on the lower levels. He doesn’t want to spare any additional security.”
Kitty felt Min-ho tense beside her. His jaw tightened, and she could practically see the flicker of frustration in his eyes. She knew how much he hated being micromanaged by his father, how being treated like a fragile, high-profile secret grated on his nerves.
“Of course he did,” Min-ho muttered under his breath, rubbing a hand over his face.
The assistant gave a small nod. “I’m very sorry, sir, but all the rooms are booked.”
Min-ho let out a slow exhale, clearly trying to keep his emotions in check. Kitty bit her lip, watching him carefully. She wasn’t sure if he was more frustrated about the lack of a solution or the fact that his father was once again pulling the strings.
“Well,” Kitty finally said, breaking the silence, “looks like we’re stuck with each other.”
Min-ho turned his head toward her, his expression unreadable for a moment—then, finally, he let out a short, breathy laugh.
“Yeah, Covey,” he said, shaking his head. “Looks like we are.”
The assistant left the room, and silence settled between them, thick with unspoken tension.
Min-ho cleared his throat, forcing an easygoing smile. “Well, Covey, I’m sorry about this, but it’s fine. I’ll just take the sofa.”
Kitty followed his gaze to the so-called sofa—a loveseat, really. It was made of deep green velvet, perched on four delicate wooden legs, with a curved back that looked more suited for aesthetic purposes than comfort. She tilted her head, trying to imagine Min-ho—who was nearly six feet tall—actually managing to sleep on it. The image alone made her wince.
She glanced toward the living area just outside the bedroom, but the couches out there weren’t any better. If anything, they looked even more rigid, like they were designed for decoration rather than relaxation.
Min-ho must have noticed her hesitation because he quickly added, “I’ll let you have the bathroom first, Covey. It’s getting late, and you look exhausted.”
Kitty wanted to protest, to at least argue that he should take the bed—but she was too tired to fight. Instead, she gave a small nod and disappeared into the bathroom.
The shower was a whole ordeal. The touchscreen settings were ridiculously complicated, and it took her a full two minutes to figure out how to make the water warm instead of scalding hot. After a quick rinse, she brushed her teeth and changed into her pajamas, savoring the feeling of clean, soft fabric against her skin.
When she stepped back into the bedroom, Min-ho was draping a comforter over the loveseat. She could tell just by looking at him that he knew how miserable his night was about to be.
“Your turn,” she said, rubbing a towel through her damp hair.
Min-ho glanced up and gave her a tired but genuine smile before disappearing into the bathroom.
Kitty climbed into bed, immediately sinking into the plush mattress. It was miles more comfortable than her dorm bed at KISS, which was already better than her childhood bed back home. The silk sheets felt impossibly smooth against her skin, and for a brief moment, she let herself enjoy the quiet luxury of it all.
Then Min-ho reappeared, dressed in his favorite silk pajamas—the same ones she had seen him wear countless times at KISS. The sight made something warm and familiar settle in her chest.
“Goodnight, Covey,” he said softly as he crossed the room.
Kitty watched as he maneuvered onto the loveseat, bending his legs at an awkward angle just to fit. The sight was almost comical, but instead of teasing him, she just shook her head with a small sigh.
“…Goodnight, Min-ho.”
She turned onto her side, pulling the blanket up to her chin.
This was wrong. She was laying there in the most comfortable bed she’s ever gotten a chance to sleep in, and Min-ho was falling off a couch used for decoration.
She squirmed underneath the covers, the idea that came into her head scared her, but it was the right thing to do.
She sat up.
“Min-ho?” she called softly.
He bent his legs down and sat up on the loveseat. “Is everything okay, Covey?”
Genuine concern was in his voice. Kitty hesitated for a moment, then the words tumbled out.
“No… you should sleep in the bed with me.”
Notes:
I hope all of you are enjoying it so far!!!!!!!! It’s funny to go back and read over my first couple of chapters while I'm posting this!
Chapter 4: Blurred Lines
Chapter Text
Min-ho stared at Kitty, disbelief flashing across his face, as she sat up in bed, the blanket pulling around her shoulders like a protective shield. Her voice, soft but firm, hung in the air.
“No… you should sleep in the bed with me.”
For a second, neither of them moved. Min-ho processed her words, his brows furrowing slightly. It wasn’t that he didn’t want to; the idea of sharing the bed with Kitty was… well, complicated. But the awkwardness of the situation made his heart race for reasons he wasn’t ready to confront.
"Are you sure?" His voice was low, measured, as though weighing whether this could be a joke, or something more.
Kitty looked at him, eyes wide, a flush creeping up her neck. "I... I don’t want you to be uncomfortable. And I can’t let you sleep on that couch. It’s not fair."
He chuckled softly, brushing his hair back with his hand. “Well, if you insist…”
Kitty’s laughter broke the awkward silence, light and genuine. "I promise I won’t kick you, okay?" She scooted to the far side of the bed, trying to give him space but also making it clear she wasn’t disgusted by him.
Min-ho slid under the covers, glancing over at her, "This is weird, huh?"
"Tell me about it." Kitty gave him a teasing smile, settling into the pillows.
—
The next morning, the sun crept into the room, gently nudging them both awake. Kitty was the first to stir, the soft warmth of the bed almost too comforting to leave. But as she slowly opened her eyes, she realized that she was facing Min-ho—and not in the distant “I’m-staying-on-my-side” way she had intended. No, they were facing each other, their bodies naturally gravitating toward one another in the night.
Her breath hitched as she processed the situation. He was right there, so close that she could feel the warmth radiating off his skin. His eyes were still closed, and for a moment, she just watched him—his messy hair, his soft expression, and the way his lips curled into a faint smile as he slept.
She was still processing how they had ended up like this. She genuinely just wanted him to be more comfortable than he was on that tiny couch, but now, this felt… real.
As if on cue, Min-ho shifted in his sleep, and his hand brushed against her arm. She tried not to react, but the heat of his touch sent a ripple through her.
His eyes fluttered open, and the two of them froze, just inches apart. For a long moment, neither of them spoke.
Min-ho blinked a couple of times, clearly processing the situation. Then he broke the silence with a small laugh. “Well, this is...awkward.”
Kitty huffed a slight laugh “yeah”.
He sat up quickly, trying to pretend like it wasn’t a big deal, but she could see the slight flush creeping up his neck. “I’m gonna grab a shower before you, okay?”
“Yeah, sure. Go ahead.” Kitty sat up too, pulling the covers away as she made her way to the edge of the bed. The air was thick with unspoken words, but she forced herself to focus on something else. They were going to get through the day. Just one awkward moment at a time.
—
By the time they were dressed and ready, the excitement of the day started to kick in. Kitty was wearing a simple yet stylish dress, her hair falling loosely around her shoulders, while Min-ho had opted for a casual shirt, dark jeans, and sneakers. They were ready to take on the city again—this time, with a change of pace.
"So, what do you think about spending the day exploring some coffee shops? Not that I need a pick-me-up... but maybe something a little more indulgent than the usual collagen water."
Kitty raised an eyebrow, an amused grin tugging at her lips. "Indulgent, huh?"
"Let’s just say I could go for a good espresso and a pastry," he added with a shrug, his usual control slipping just a bit. "I think today should be about taking it slow. Just coffee and carbs."
Kitty laughed, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Now you’re speaking my language."
They headed out to explore Tokyo once more, this time on a quest to find the perfect cafés. They didn’t rush, letting the day unfold as it would.
The first stop was a quaint little café tucked into an alley, its minimalist decor and delicate pastries catching their eyes as soon as they walked in. They ordered matcha lattes and fluffy pancakes that practically melted in their mouths. Kitty took a moment to savor the moment, the sweet, rich flavors a welcome change from the chaos of the previous night.
“This is what life is all about,” Min-ho said, taking a long sip of his drink. “Coffee and pancakes and no worries.”
Kitty couldn’t help but agree. “I think we should live here,” she joked, taking a picture of her pancakes before diving in. “This is the dream.”
The next few hours were a blur of café hopping. They found a quirky spot where the coffee was served with a side of mochi, then another that had specialty drinks that looked like works of art. They shared each new drink and snack, playfully arguing over whose choice was better, all the while laughing and joking as if nothing could ruin the day.
Around mid-afternoon, Min-ho checked his phone and reminded her, “We’re meeting my family at the restaurant at 7 p.m., remember?”
Kitty noticed how tense he was, she knew that his dad was trying to change for him, but he’s been so busy with all of the press drama to even talk to Min-ho since they arrived in Tokyo, and Kitty could tell Min-ho still had his guard up when it came to spending quality time with his dad.
—
The evening came too quickly, and before they knew it, they were dressed and ready for dinner.
When they arrived at the restaurant, they were led to a private room where Joon Ho and Eunji were already seated. Joon Ho was trying his best to look excited, but the exhaustion of preparing for his tour was clear. Eunji smiled warmly at them both.
“Hey, guys. Good to see you,” Joon Ho greeted them with a tired but affectionate smile.
“Min-ho, Kitty,” Eunji added, her voice soft and kind. “I hope you’re both hungry. We ordered ahead.”
The room felt warmer with the four of them sitting at the table. Kitty and Eunji seemed to fall into an easy rhythm, swapping stories of their favorite restaurants and quirks of the city.
“So, you’ve been to that café with the fluffy pancakes, right?” Eunji asked, “I heard they have the best matcha lattes.”
Kitty grinned, “Yes! We went there today. I swear, I’ve never had anything like it. I think we might have to make it a daily stop.”
“I approve,” Eunji said with a playful wink, and Kitty laughed.
Min-ho watched the two of them with a small, amused smile. He was glad Kitty was getting along so well with Eunji; it had been nice seeing someone so easygoing with her. He reached for a piece of sushi, his eyes flicking over to his brother. “I don’t know how you two manage to stay so calm during all the chaos.”
Joon Ho chuckled tiredly. “I think it’s just... the calm before the storm. Right now, I’m just counting the hours until I get a break.” He glanced at Eunji and added with a teasing grin, “Although I have to admit, the constant support from her helps keep me sane.”
Eunji smiled softly at him, reaching across the table to squeeze his hand. “Someone has to, right?”
As they were laughing over a funny story Eunji was telling about Joon Ho’s early days of fame, the door to the room swung open with a sudden force. Mr. Moon stepped inside, his presence immediately commanding attention.
“Well, well, look who’s here,” Mr. Moon said, a smile on his face, though there was an air of detachment in his voice. “Sorry I’m late. Business, you know how it is.”
Min-ho’s smile faltered, and Kitty could see the tension in his shoulders as his father took a seat, pulling out his phone almost immediately. The atmosphere shifted slightly, but Joon Ho and Eunji made an effort to welcome him.
“It’s good to see you, Dad,” Joon Ho said, his voice still warm but tinged with exhaustion. “We were just talking about the tour.”
Mr. Moon barely looked up from his phone as he grunted in acknowledgement. “Mm-hmm. Good. But I have a few things to take care of before I can fully focus on this dinner.”
Kitty exchanged a glance with Min-ho, who was already fidgeting with his chopsticks. She could tell he was trying to keep his composure.
For the next few minutes, the conversation stalled as Mr. Moon answered a few calls, each one more urgent than the last. He briefly made eye contact with the table, offering a distracted, half-hearted apology. “Excuse me, I’ll be right back. Important business stuff.”
Joon Ho rubbed his temples, his exhaustion becoming more evident by the second. “Dad, do you ever stop?” he muttered under his breath, but his words were drowned out by another phone call coming in.
Kitty smiled softly at the two of them, feeling for both Joon Ho and Min-ho. This was clearly a familiar dynamic, one that neither of them seemed completely comfortable with.
After a few more interruptions, Joon Ho finally put down his chopsticks, his eyes growing heavy with fatigue. “Okay, that’s it. Eunji, let’s just call it a night. I’m too tired for this.”
Eunji nodded, standing with him. “You’re right. We’ve got an early morning tomorrow anyway.”
Min-ho stood up too, glancing at Kitty. “We should go, too. It’s been a long day.”
—
As they stepped outside the restaurant, the cool evening air hit them. Min-ho walked silently beside Kitty for a few moments before he spoke, his voice soft.
“Sorry about my dad. He’s... not great at balancing things.”
Kitty glanced at him, noting the way his shoulders seemed tense, his usual confident posture slightly deflated. He ran a hand through his hair—a nervous habit she had started to recognize—and let out a quiet sigh.
“It’s been like this for as long as I can remember,” he continued, his voice tight. “He’s always been more focused on his work than on... us. We’re just... convenient when it’s convenient for him.”
Kitty could hear the pain in his voice, and it made her heart ache. She didn’t know what to say, so she just listened, offering her presence and understanding.
Min-ho exhaled sharply, shoving his hands into his pockets. His jaw tightened, and for a moment, he just stared ahead at the dimly lit sidewalk, his usual sharp wit replaced by quiet frustration. “I don’t know if I can ever change the way he is. But sometimes... I just wish he cared more.” His voice wavered slightly, like he was trying to keep his emotions in check.
Kitty nodded slowly, her own steps falling in line with his. “It’s tough when you want something from someone who doesn’t seem to notice. But that doesn’t mean it’s not valid to feel hurt.”
Min-ho glanced over at her, his gaze softening. He swallowed, hesitating as if debating whether to say more, before finally exhaling. “Thanks, Kitty. It helps to talk about it.” His voice was quieter now, more honest, the edges of his usual bravado slipping away.
She offered him a small, encouraging smile. Without thinking, she reached out and gently squeezed his arm, a simple gesture of comfort. “I’m here for you.”
For a brief moment, Min-ho just looked at her—really looked at her—before nodding. “I know.”
Notes:
The one bed trope is HERE! I love writing about Kitty and Min-ho and how they really care for each other. You will see more of Kitty and Eunji in the next chapter, as well as Mr.Moon on his redemption arc!
Chapter 5: Guy Talk, Girl Talk
Chapter Text
Min-ho woke up slowly, trying not to disturb Kitty who was still asleep beside him. He lay still for a while, staring at the ceiling, his mind a whirl of thoughts he didn’t want to deal with. The way their bodies had brushed against each other throughout the night was still fresh in his memory.
They were close friends, sure, but sharing a bed? That was... different.
Kitty stirred beside him, her soft sigh breaking through the silence. She shifted, her hair falling over her shoulder as she opened her eyes.
“Good morning,” she mumbled, her voice still thick with sleep. She didn’t immediately pull away from him, and for a moment, Min-ho didn’t either. They were in that strange space between comfort and awkwardness, neither knowing how to move without making the situation even more tense.
“Morning,” Min-ho replied, keeping his voice light as he quickly averted his eyes. He tried to focus on something—anything—else but the fact that they were lying so close together. He couldn’t even remember the last time he’d felt this unsure of himself around Kitty.
Kitty sat up and stretched, giving him some space, but her teasing smile was still there. “Well, looks like we survived the night,” she joked, clearly trying to downplay the situation, but there was a slight flush to her cheeks that suggested she wasn’t quite as unaffected as she let on.
“Yeah... barely,” Min-ho laughed, his face red as he sat up rubbing the sleep off his face.
The door to the hotel suite opened suddenly.
“Min-ho, Kitty, you up?” Mr. Moon’s voice rang through the room. Min-ho froze, panic flooding his chest.
Kitty’s eyes widened in horror as Mr. Moon stepped into the room, his gaze immediately landing on the two of them—still in bed. His eyes flicked between them, taking in the awkwardness of the situation in one glance.
“Oh... well, this is new,” Mr. Moon said with a teasing smirk. His tone was light, but the way he raised an eyebrow made the situation feel even more awkward than it already was.
Min-ho’s face turned beet red. “Dad! Could you... I don’t know, knock?” he stammered, desperately trying to hide the embarrassment spreading across his face.
Kitty’s expression mirrored Min-ho’s, her mouth opening and closing as she scrambled for words. “It’s... not what it looks like!” she blurted, but the panic in her voice only made things worse.
Mr. Moon didn’t seem to care much for the explanation. “I can see that, Min-ho, come meet me for lunch in a bit. I’ll be waiting for you downstairs.”
Min-ho nodded quickly, still not sure what to say. “Yeah, okay, I’ll be there soon.”
With that, Mr. Moon gave them a smirk, walking out of the room with a little chuckle.
As the door clicked shut behind him, Min-ho let out a breath he hadn’t realized he was holding. He turned to Kitty, who was still sitting on the bed, blinking rapidly as she tried to process what had just happened.
“I can’t believe that just happened,” Min-ho said, his voice a mix of disbelief and awkwardness. “I swear, it feels like he’s doing this on purpose.”
Kitty just laughed nervously, shaking her head. “Well, if he’s trying to make us uncomfortable, it’s definitely working,” she said with a half-smile, trying to lighten the mood.
—
Min-ho headed downstairs to meet his dad for lunch. He wasn’t sure what to expect, but he had a feeling the conversation wasn’t going to be any less uncomfortable than their earlier encounter.
Mr. Moon was already seated at a small table by the window, sipping a cup of coffee. When Min-ho sat down, his dad raised an eyebrow.
“Long night?” Mr. Moon asked casually, giving Min-ho a pointed look. The words weren’t said in a judgmental way, but there was an unmistakable knowing in his voice.
Min-ho flushed, trying to keep his voice steady. “We... we just shared a room, that’s all,” he said quickly, looking away. “It was fine.”
“Mm-hmm,” Mr. Moon replied, tapping his fingers against his mug. He was watching Min-ho carefully, as if he was waiting for him to open up. “I’m sure you are fine. But, you know, if you need to talk about it... I’m here.”
Min-ho’s face turned an even deeper shade of red. “What are you, my therapist now?” he asked awkwardly, trying to change the subject.
Mr. Moon chuckled softly. “Hey, I’m just saying... you can talk to me. I know we don’t exactly have the best father-son dynamic, but I’m trying, Min-ho.”
Min-ho shifted uncomfortably, avoiding his dad’s gaze. “It’s not that simple,” he muttered. “I’m not used to... talking to you like this.”
“Fair enough,” Mr. Moon said, leaning back in his chair. He seemed to think for a moment before his expression softened.
“About last night,” Mr. Moon started, tapping his fingers against the table. “I’m sorry for the way things went. Work’s been a mess lately, and I wasn’t exactly... present. I know you’re probably used to it by now, but that doesn’t make it right.”
Min-ho looked at his father, surprise flickering across his face. “That’s the first time you’ve apologized about this... since forever,” Min-ho said, a little wary but grateful for the gesture.
“I guess it’s just time to be better,” Mr. Moon said quietly. “I’m trying to be a better father. I want you to know that.”
There was a long pause as Min-ho processed his dad’s words. He wasn’t sure how to respond, so he just nodded, unsure of what to say.
“So, about that room situation...” Mr. Moon continued, his voice lowering slightly. “I’ve noticed... you’re not exactly thrilled with the way things turned out.”
Min-ho froze, suddenly very aware of where this conversation was headed. “It’s fine,” he said quickly, trying to play it off. “It’s just a little awkward, that’s all. Sharing a room with Kitty... especially when I might…” He paused.
“Have feelings for her?” Mr. Moon continued for him with a playful smirk.
Min-ho blinked, his confusion evident. “What?”
Mr. Moon let out a soft laugh, leaning back in his chair. “I knew it.”
Min-ho froze, his heart thundering in his chest. “What? No! I mean—uh—yeah, I guess, but...” He trailed off, fumbling for words. He wasn’t used to having this kind of talk with his dad, and it felt... wrong.
Mr. Moon chuckled again, “I was the one who set it up, you know.”
Min-ho blinked harder. “You… what?”
“There was actually plenty of space available on the lower floors of the hotel,” Mr. Moon said, still grinning. “I knew exactly what I was doing when I asked for the two of you to share a room.”
Min-ho’s jaw dropped. “You… you planned all of this?”
Mr. Moon just shrugged, looking almost proud of himself. “I figured it was time you two had a little push in the right direction.”
Min-ho’s flustered expression melted into a mixture of disbelief and embarrassment. “You’re impossible,” he muttered, trying to process what had just happened. “I can’t believe you…”
Mr. Moon’s grin softened. “You might not believe it now, but... I’m doing my best. You deserve more than what I’ve given you in the past.”
Min-ho stared at his father, torn between being furious and being touched by the sincerity in his voice. His father had just given him something he hadn’t realized he wanted—an acknowledgment that he wasn’t invisible, that his feelings mattered.
“Well,” Min-ho said after a long pause, still feeling a little embarrassed, “I guess it’s… it’s not that bad. Not exactly ideal, but it’s not horrible either.”
Mr. Moon smirked again, clearly pleased with himself. “Good. I’m glad you think so.”
—
Meanwhile, back at the penthouse, Kitty and Eunji were in the middle of a much-needed girl’s afternoon. They were sprawled out on the couch, face masks on and laughing over some ridiculous meme Kitty had shown her.
“This is so nice,” Eunji said with a sigh. “It’s been forever since I’ve just hung out like this. With the pregnancy, and Joon Ho’s schedule, it feels like I never get time for myself.”
Kitty smiled. “I totally get that. Life can get so busy sometimes.”
Eunji tilted her head, eyeing Kitty playfully. “Speaking of... how are things with Min-ho? You two seem... close.”
Kitty’s face flushed. “Well, um...” She bit her lip, clearly trying to choose her words carefully. “I like him. A lot. But it’s... complicated, you know?”
Eunji raised an eyebrow. “Complicated? How so?”
Kitty let out a sigh, leaning back into the couch. “I don’t know. We’ve been friends for so long, but now... things are different. I don’t know how he feels, and even if he does like me, I don’t know if I’m ready to risk our friendship for something more.”
Eunji smiled knowingly. “I get it. It’s scary to take that step, especially when you care about someone so much. But I think you should tell him. If you like him this much, maybe he feels the same.”
Kitty glanced away, feeling a flutter in her chest. “Yeah... maybe you’re right. I just don’t want to mess everything up.”
Eunji placed a hand on her shoulder reassuringly. “Sometimes, you just have to take the leap. Trust me.”
Kitty took a deep breath, feeling a little braver. Maybe Eunji was right. Maybe it was time to stop holding back.
Notes:
AHHHHHHH, I loved writing this chapter because I really want Mr.Moon to be a better father and also wanted Kitty and Min-ho to finally admit their feelings to SOMEONE. I’m so excited for you guys to read Chapter 5 because things start getting a little steamy….
Chapter 6: Locked In
Chapter Text
The last few days had been a blur for Min-ho and Kitty. Tokyo had been a whirlwind of sights and sounds. The city itself pulsed with energy, neon lights illuminating every corner, and the chaotic hum of a thousand conversations blending into one. But for Min-ho and Kitty, it wasn’t the bright city lights or bustling streets that stuck with them the most—it was the small moments, the ones they kept to themselves in between the madness.
They had spent hours wandering through the city, stumbling across hole-in-the-wall ramen shops, and soaking in the vibrancy of the place. Each new experience felt like a little adventure.
But the real adventure, oddly enough, was the shared bed. For a couple of days, neither of them really knew how to handle it. At first, they were both stiff as boards, careful not to touch each other even accidentally. The bed was huge, but it might as well have been a tiny twin-sized cot with the way they acted. They had both fallen into an awkward, unspoken rhythm—Kitty on one side, Min-ho on the other, with a dramatic space between them that might as well have been an ocean.
And yet, despite the awkwardness, the proximity had a strange pull to it. Every night, they would lie there, eyes fixed on the ceiling, pretending to be asleep while secretly aware of each other’s every breath. The sheets rustled when one of them shifted, or when Kitty rolled over to pull her blanket up, brushing too close to him. It wasn’t exactly comfortable, but neither could bring themselves to say anything. They didn’t want to break the fragile silence that held them in place.
But sometimes, the tension couldn’t be ignored. Like when their hands would brush in the middle of the night, both of them froze for just a second before jerking away as if the contact had been electric. Or when they’d lay too close for too long, their breaths syncing up without either one of them willing to pull away first. At some point, they had both stopped pretending it didn’t feel, um… intimate.
And yet, neither of them had said a word about it. They were both too nervous, too unsure of what to say or how to say it. Kitty spent most of the time convincing herself it was nothing more than the inevitable awkwardness of a shared space. But deep down, she knew better. Min-ho, for his part, buried the thoughts even deeper. He had his own way of pretending everything was fine, but every time their legs accidentally touched under the covers, he could feel his heart race.
Today has been a whirlwind of rehearsals and training, with Joon Ho’s concert preparations in full swing. The venue was alive with dancers warming up, tech crews running around, and stage managers barking orders. But amidst the chaos, Min-ho and Kitty had managed to carve out a little time to themselves. They weren’t involved in the rehearsals—they were more like spectators in this entire tour.
But neither of them minded. They were happy to explore.
"Hey, I dare you to try on one of those outfits," Min-ho teased, pointing to a rack of over-the-top costumes backstage. He pulled out a shiny, sequined jacket that was far too flashy to ever be worn outside of a stage show. "You’d totally rock this."
Kitty raised an eyebrow, eyeing him carefully. "If I put that on, will you finally admit that you’d look even worse in it?"
“Never,” he shot back, a smug grin on his face. "I have taste."
"Sure you do," she laughed, then swiped a ridiculous feathered hat off the table and plopped it on his head. "Now this is your style, Mr. Fashionista."
Min-ho looked at himself in the mirror, eyebrow raised, trying his best not to laugh. "I look like I’m in a Vegas show," he said, reaching up to adjust the hat, which was comically oversized. “This is definitely not my style.”
“Oh, I think you pull it off,” Kitty said, her voice dripping with sarcasm. “You look like you belong in a circus.”
Min-ho rolled his eyes but kept the hat on, striking a dramatic pose. "I bet Joon Ho would love this look. Maybe I should wear it for his next performance."
Kitty snorted, trying to keep a straight face. "If you did, I’d have to retire from being your friend."
"Why, because I’d be too cool for you?" Min-ho teased, nudging her lightly.
“Because I’d be too embarrassed to be seen in public with you,” she shot back, laughing.
As they wandered further into the backstage area, Min-ho and Kitty found themselves slipping between rooms filled with even more ridiculous costumes. There were neon-colored tights, feather boas, and sparkly platform shoes. Every now and then, their shoulders brushed, or their hands accidentally grazed each other as they reached for the same costume. Each time, neither of them acknowledged it, but both of them could feel the subtle tension building between them.
Eventually, they stumbled into a small storage closet packed with Joon Ho’s merch—glittering foam fingers, oversized sunglasses, and sparkly jackets that looked like they belonged on a stage in the 80s. It was ridiculous, they couldn’t help but laugh.
“You know, I think this is the real reason Joon Ho is so famous,” Kitty said, holding up a sequined tank top that could only be described as “loud.” "It’s all about the merch."
Min-ho grabbed a rhinestone-covered jacket and twirled it around his finger. “He’s got taste, alright,” he said, snickering. “You know what would really sell these? If I wore them for my next family dinner.”
Kitty burst into laughter, setting down the tank top to catch her breath. “Can you imagine? Your mom would die.”
“I’d never hear the end of it,” Min-ho said, pretending to think. “On second thought, I might wear it just to see her reaction.”
Just then, the door to the closet slammed shut behind them with a loud thud, and both of them froze, their laughter dying instantly. Min-ho reached for the handle, but it didn’t budge.
“Uh, that’s... not normal,” Kitty said, her voice suddenly tight with realization.
Min-ho tried the handle again, a little more forcefully, but the door was locked. "Well, that’s just fantastic," he muttered under his breath, reaching for his phone. But when he checked, he realized his battery was dead.
"Great, now we’re really stuck," Kitty said, her voice laced with frustration but also an undercurrent of nervousness.
Kitty grabbed her phone, dialing Eunji. She needed to hear something reassuring, anything to cut through the thick air of tension building between them.
Eunji answered after a few rings. “Hello?”
“We’re locked in a closet,” Kitty said quickly, glancing at Min-ho. “Can you help us?”
Eunji’s voice was calm. “I’m across the venue right now, but I’m on my way. Hang tight, okay?”
Kitty sighed, relief flooding her body. “Thanks, Eunji. We’ll be waiting.”
"She’s on her way,” Kitty said, looking at Min-ho. “She’s just across the venue, but she’ll be here soon."
Min-ho slumped against the wall, his legs stretched out. “Great” he muttered, his frustration leaking through his words. He lowered himself to the floor and leaned his back against the cool concrete wall beside her.
Kitty followed suit, sitting next to him, their shoulders almost touching. It was quiet for a moment before Min-ho let out a long breath, running a hand through his hair. “I have to admit, this trip has been the most fun I’ve had in ages.”
Kitty grinned, her eyes bright. “Me too, I’ve never laughed this much in my life! I’m seriously glad I came along.”
Min-ho glanced at her. “You really made this trip so much better, Kitty. I’m seriously grateful.”
Kitty’s heart skipped a beat. She smiled, her eyes briefly flicking to him. "I’m glad," she said, shifting awkwardly as she folded her legs in front of her.
"And... about the whole one-bed situation... sorry if it’s been awkward." Min-ho blushed just thinking about their room predicament.
Kitty chuckled, though there was a slight nervousness in her tone. “Well... it’s really not that bad, right?” She gave him a quick glance, her knee brushing against his.
Min-ho froze for a second, his heart racing. He turned his head to look at Kitty, the heat rising on his cheeks. “Yeah, I guess it’s... fine,” he replied, trying to sound casual. “I mean, it’s just a bed. We’re friends.”
The heaviness of the unspoken truth weighed between them. He swallowed, then smiled nervously.
“You know, I’m really happy you’re coming back to KISS for senior year.”
Kitty laughed lightly. “Yeah, it’s kind of funny. A last-minute donor came through, so my scholarship’s renewed for next year.”
Min-ho's expression shifted, a nervous energy bubbling inside him. He stared at her for a moment, then said, almost too quickly, “Oh... about that... um... I might’ve been the donor.”
Kitty’s eyes widened, and her jaw dropped. “Wait—what?!” she gasped, shaking her head in disbelief. “No, Min-ho, I could never ask that of you. Why would you—”
“I just...” Min-ho’s voice faltered for a moment, and he looked away, the words caught in his throat. “I couldn’t imagine you not being in my life.”
Kitty blinked, her heart pounding in her chest. The words hung in the air between them, raw and real, a moment of vulnerability that neither of them had expected to surface. She felt a wave of emotion rush over her—gratitude, shock, and a deep affection for this boy who, despite all their banter and teasing, cared about her in a way she hadn’t fully understood until now.
Her breath caught in her throat, and before she could stop herself, her hand reached out, pulling him toward her. She kissed him—quick, impulsive, but full of everything she’d been too afraid to say.
Min-ho froze, his lips barely touching hers before he pulled back. His breath hitched. “Covey...” he whispered, eyes wide with shock.
Kitty was already closing the distance between them again, her eyes searching his face for a reaction. She didn’t want to overthink it anymore; she just needed to feel something real.
And then, without warning, Min-ho’s hand moved. His fingers brushed lightly against her cheek, the warmth of his touch sending a jolt through her. He cupped her face, his thumb grazing the edge of her jaw as he gently pulled her closer. His other hand rested on her waist, fingers splayed over the curve of her hip. His touch was hesitant at first, but his grip tightened as their lips met again, more urgently this time.
Kitty’s breath caught as his kiss deepened. There was no hesitation now, just the raw, undeniable pull between them. His lips were soft but insistent, his hand tracing the line of her jaw before moving to the back of her neck, pulling her even closer. She melted into him, her fingers grazing the fabric of his shirt, unsure of what to do with the electric tension humming between them.
Min-ho’s kiss grew more desperate, more demanding, as if he was finally letting go of everything he had been holding back. His lips parted slightly, and she responded, her own mouth opening to meet his with equal fervor. The kiss was slow at first, savoring the sweetness of it, but then it deepened again, a fiery intensity igniting between them. The space between them felt too small, like they couldn’t get close enough.
His hand moved, sliding into her hair, threading through the soft strands, tugging her toward him as if he couldn’t get enough of her. Kitty’s heart raced as she leaned into him, her body responding instinctively, her hands resting on his chest. The world outside the closet faded, and all that mattered was the feel of his lips on hers, the heat of his touch, and the silent promises of everything unspoken between them.
When they finally pulled away, both of them gasped for air, faces flushed, hearts pounding. Kitty’s hands were still on his chest, her fingers curled into his shirt, and Min-ho’s forehead rested against hers. They both stared at each other as if trying to process what had just happened, as if the weight of the kiss hadn’t quite sunk in yet.
Min-ho’s voice was breathless, his chest rising and falling with every ragged breath. “What just...”
But the moment was abruptly interrupted by the sound of the closet door creaking open, flooding the small space with blinding light.
Eunji stood in the doorway, her face a picture of shock, quickly morphing into a mischievous grin.
“FINALLY!” she exclaimed, propping the door open with a box before skipping away, giddy with excitement.
Min-ho hastily cleared his throat, standing up and extending his hand to help Kitty to her feet. “It’s… uh, probably time to head back to the suite for dinner,” he said, his voice awkward but attempting to regain some normalcy. “My dad wants to go over the plan for the concert tomorrow.”
Kitty’s face was still flushed, and she quickly tried to smooth her disheveled hair as she followed Min-ho out of the closet. Her mind raced, still reeling from the kiss, the confession... and the realization that Min-ho had paid for her tuition. All this time, she thought he had moved on, and she couldn’t have been more wrong.
She could still feel the faint trace of his hand on her chin, the way his fingers had brushed over her skin… But her thoughts were shattered as she bumped into someone in the hallway.
“Oh, I’m so sorry!” Kitty exclaimed, steadying herself, only for her mouth to fall open in shock as the person she collided with turned around.
“Dae?!”
Notes:
I REALLY HOPE YOU LOVE THIS AS MUCH AS I DO!!!!!! Also shit is about to hit the fan guys. This is the last chapter I will post today! More will come tomorrow! Please leave your support, I hope you are all having a wonderful day!
Chapter 7: Dinner Disaster
Chapter Text
Dae blinked, looking just as shocked as Kitty.
"Kitty?! What are you doing here?" he asked, his eyes darting between her and Min-ho, who had frozen mid-step behind her.
Kitty opened her mouth, then closed it. Good question. How was she supposed to explain that she had spontaneously decided to join Min-ho on this summer tour, without giving away… well, everything?
Min-ho couldn’t hide his absolute shock. "What are you doing here?"
Dae straightened, adjusting his jacket. "I’m performing. Eunice convinced Mr.Moon to let us be a pop duo again." He said it casually, like it was the most natural thing in the world, but Kitty’s jaw nearly dropped.
"Wait, what? Since when?"
Dae shrugged. "Since Eunice decided she didn’t want to do this without me. She pulled some strings, and now we’re debuting together. Crazy, right?" He smiled, completely missing the absolute chaos happening behind Kitty’s eyes.
Min-ho exhaled sharply. "Yeah. Crazy."
"But what are you doing here, Kitty?" Dae asked again, his brow furrowing in confusion. "I mean, I know you and Min-ho are… friends?" He said it like he wasn’t even sure. "But I didn’t think you’d be on tour with him."
Kitty scrambled for a response. "Uh, well—"
"She’s writing an article," Min-ho cut in smoothly, placing a casual hand on Kitty’s lower back, ignoring the way she tensed under his touch. "For a summer class. You know, an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the glamorous life of K-pop stars." He smirked. "Very serious journalism."
Dae nodded slowly, clearly not doubting the story, but still baffled. "Huh. Okay. Well, I guess I’ll see you at dinner?" He turned around and started down the hallway, leaving Kitty and Min-ho standing in stunned silence.
Kitty whirled on Min-ho the second Dae was out of earshot. "An article?! That’s the best you could come up with?"
Min-ho smirked. "Well, it worked, didn’t it?"
She groaned, burying her face in her hands. "This is a disaster."
Min-ho chuckled, nudging her with his shoulder as they started walking back to the suite. "Relax, Covey. He’s not suspicious. He’s just Dae. Completely oblivious, as usual."
—
Back at the penthouse, Min-ho and Kitty were getting ready for dinner in their shared room. Kitty was still reeling from the whole Dae situation, but she was also painfully aware of Min-ho’s presence across the room as he changed his shirt.
She turned away quickly, staring hard at her reflection in the mirror. But it didn’t help—her mind was still stuck on what had happened earlier. The way Min-ho had looked at her right before she kissed him. The way he had pulled her closer. The way it had felt—
"You’re thinking about it, aren’t you?"
Kitty’s breath hitched as Min-ho’s voice pulled her from her thoughts. She could see his smirk in the mirror.
"Thinking about what?" she said, too quickly.
Min-ho strolled up behind her, leaning against the vanity. His cologne—something expensive—wrapped around her, making it even harder to focus.
"You know," he said, tilting his head slightly. "When you kissed me."
Kitty bristled, straightening her back. "I—No. Absolutely not."
"Liar." Min-ho’s voice was low. He stepped even closer, his body just shy of pressing against her back. Kitty could feel the heat radiating off him, and could practically hear the smirk in his voice.
"Admit it, Covey. You liked it."
Kitty swallowed, avoiding his gaze in the mirror. Her face was burning, and she hated that he could probably tell.
"Maybe," she finally muttered.
Min-ho chuckled, the sound breathy and amused. And then, before she could react, his hands found her waist, sliding around her and pulling her gently against him.
Kitty’s breath hitched. Her first instinct should’ve been to pull away—but she didn’t. Because Min-ho’s touch was warm. Steady. Safe.
She dared to glance up, catching their reflection in the mirror. Min-ho wasn’t smirking now. He was just looking at her, head dipped beside hers, something softer lingering in his expression.
"Hey," he said, his voice quieter now. "My tie’s crooked. Fix it for me?"
Kitty nodded, almost too quickly, turning in his arms. His hands slipped from her waist as she faced him, but the space between them didn’t last long.
Min-ho held her gaze as she reached for his tie, flipping up the collar of his crisp shirt. Her fingers fumbled slightly.
Then, just as she tugged the fabric, her heel caught on the rug.
Kitty stumbled back, her spine brushing the vanity. Instinctively, she grabbed onto Min-ho’s tie for balance—yanking him closer.
Close enough that their noses nearly brushed.
Min-ho’s smirk was instant. "Wow, Covey," he murmured, voice low and teasing. "You’re a little eager."
Kitty opened her mouth to protest, but Min-ho just smirked, bracing his hands on either side of the vanity, effectively caging her in.
"Well?" he asked, tilting his head. "Are you gonna keep staring, or are you actually gonna help me fix my tie?"
Kitty wanted to glare at him. Wanted to say something sharp and snappy. But she was too flustered to find the words, and he knew it.
Her hands trembled slightly as she adjusted his tie, flipping the collar back down. She could feel his breath against her cheek, steady and calm, completely unaffected.
Meanwhile, she was ready to combust.
When she finally dropped her hands, Min-ho didn’t move right away. Instead, he leaned in the smallest fraction, his lips brushing against her cheek—so light she barely felt it.
"Thanks," he murmured.
Then, just as casually as ever, he stepped back and walked toward the door. Kitty was still frozen in place, trying to recover, when he glanced over his shoulder with a knowing grin.
"You ready, pretty girl?"
Kitty had never hated how flustered she was more than in that moment. She barely managed a nod as she walked over to meet him, trying to will the heat from her face.
Min-ho just chuckled, holding the door open for her. "Don’t stress, Covey. We’ll get through dinner without anyone catching on."
She doubted that.
—
Dinner, as it turned out, was an absolute disaster.
It started with minor awkwardness. Mr. Moon kept glancing at Min-ho, clearly trying to make up for years of being a terrible father but not quite sure how. Joon Ho was preoccupied with tour logistics, Eunji kept throwing Kitty knowing looks, and Eunice and Dae were just… well, happy. Completely unaware of the minefield they were sitting in.
Then, the chaos truly began.
“Kitty, I saw you coming out of Min-ho’s room earlier,” Eunice said suddenly, tilting her head in innocent curiosity. “Are you guys sharing one?”
Kitty immediately choked on her water.
Min-ho, entirely unfazed, reached for his drink, taking a slow sip before answering.
"Yeah, we are," he said smoothly. "Pretty cozy arrangement, huh?"
Kitty’s head snapped toward him. Under the table, she kicked him—hard.
Min-ho didn’t even flinch.
Dae just nodded, completely oblivious to the tension crackling in the air. "I remember when you used to complain about Kitty stealing all of your face products when she stayed with us at KISS.” He laughed lightly, “I’m glad you’ve become a bit nicer.”
Min-ho simply smirked. "You could say that."
Kitty shot him another glare.
Dae turned to her with a small grin. "Min-ho ever tell you about the time I stole his favorite silk pillowcase at KISS? He lost it. He refused to talk to me for three days—said I betrayed our entire friendship."
Kitty snorted. "You’re kidding."
"Not at all," Dae said, looking way too pleased with himself. "He even locked his door after that, like I was some kind of criminal."
Min-ho rolled his eyes. "It was imported silk, and you drooled on it, Dae. That’s a crime."
Dae laughed. "You’re so dramatic. Kitty, you should’ve seen him. He kept saying he needed to ‘disinfect the betrayal’ out of his room."
Kitty was already giggling, picturing it. "That is so on brand for you, Min-ho."
Min-ho leaned back in his chair, exhaling dramatically. "Wow, so this is what betrayal feels like. First, Covey takes over my room, now she teams up with you to mock me. Unbelievable."
"Hey, I’m just saying," Dae continued, completely unaware of how Min-ho’s jaw tensed slightly when he turned to Kitty with a teasing smile, "if he lets you share his space, you must be special."
Kitty’s face burned.
And, just as she opened her mouth to stammer out some kind of response, her hand—still holding her water glass—fumbled against the table. The glass tipped, spilling ice-cold water all over her lap.
She gasped, jerking back.
Min-ho’s reflexes were quick—he reached over, steadying the glass before more damage could be done. But it was too late. The entire front of her dress was soaked.
Eunji outright cackled.
"Oh my god, Covey," Min-ho said, amusement heavy in his voice as he grabbed a napkin. "Did you just melt under pressure?"
Kitty, absolutely mortified, snatched the napkin from his hand. "No, I—it was an accident!"
"Uh-huh," Min-ho said, his smirk widening. "Funny timing, though."
Kitty pressed the napkin against her dress, avoiding everyone’s amused stares. Joon Ho, who had been blissfully disengaged from the entire conversation, looked up just in time to witness the aftermath.
"What just happened?" he asked, frowning.
"Kitty spilled her drink because Dae called her special," Eunji supplied helpfully, still grinning.
Joon Ho raised an eyebrow. "Oh."
Kitty groaned, sinking lower in her chair. "Can we please move on?"
Min-ho, suddenly very interested in his food, poked at his plate with his chopsticks. "Yeah, let’s move on. Dae’s given enough heartfelt speeches for one night."
Dae blinked. "What? I was just saying—"
Mr. Moon, either oblivious to the tension or simply uninterested, clapped his hands together. The shift in energy was instant.
“So, tomorrow," he began, adjusting his cufflinks, "Min-ho, remember—you’re there for the cameras. Look expensive. Look perfect. We need to remind everyone who the Moon family is."
Kitty flicked her gaze to Min-ho, expecting to see frustration. Instead, he just gave his usual easy smile, lifting his glass to his lips.
"Of course," he said, voice smooth as silk. "I’ll be my usual stunning self."
Mr. Moon, either missing or ignoring the sarcasm, nodded in approval and moved on. His sharp gaze landed on Dae and Eunice.
"And Eunice, Dae," he continued, "you’ve got the duo thing locked down, right? No mistakes. We can’t afford a slip-up. It’s your debut, after all."
Eunice nodded confidently. "We’ve got it under control, Mr. Moon."
Dae, however, wasn’t so quick to respond. His usual easygoing expression faltered for half a second before he straightened in his chair, forcing a smile. "Yeah, totally," he said, but his voice lacked the usual certainty. "It’s gonna be… awesome."
Kitty caught the way his fingers tapped against the edge of his plate—a nervous habit she’d seen a hundred times before.
Without thinking, she reached over and gave his arm a reassuring squeeze. "You’re gonna be amazing, Dae," she said, her voice soft but firm. "You always pull through when it counts."
Dae glanced at her, and for the first time all night, his smile looked real. "You think so?"
Kitty nodded. "I know so."
A beat of silence passed. Then—
Clink.
Min-ho set his chopsticks down with just a little too much force, drawing everyone’s attention. His expression remained perfectly composed, but his fingers drummed lightly against the table, and there was something a little too casual about the way he leaned back in his chair.
"Yeah, yeah, very touching," Min-ho drawled, swirling his drink in his glass. "But I’m pretty sure Eunice is the one carrying the duo anyway, so you don’t have much to worry about, Dae."
Eunice snorted. "I am the star."
Dae huffed, finally relaxing enough to roll his eyes. "Wow, thanks for the vote of confidence, man."
Min-ho smirked. "Anytime."
Kitty shot him a look, but Min-ho just lifted his glass in an innocent little toast.
Mr. Moon, oblivious to the undercurrents at play, continued. "Good. Good," he mused, before turning to Joon Ho. "And you—you need to look flawless. Absolutely flawless."
Joon Ho barely glanced up. "I always do," he deadpanned.
Kitty bit her lip to keep from laughing.
Before the tension could settle too thick, Eunji suddenly cleared her throat, her voice cutting through the moment.
“Well," she said, flashing a mischievous grin. "Looks like we’re all set for tomorrow. Who’s ready for dessert?"
—
After dinner, as everyone headed to their rooms, Eunji fell into step beside Kitty. "So... that was painful to watch."
Kitty groaned. "I don’t want to talk about it."
Eunji grinned. "Oh, but we are going to talk about it. Because, my dear Kitty, you are so gone for him."
Notes:
Hey guys!!! Dae is oblivious hahaha…. For now. I’ll post chapters 7 - 12 today!
Chapter 8: The Space Between (or lack thereof)
Chapter Text
Min-ho and Kitty stepped into their shared room, the door shutting softly behind them. The air between them was thick with unspoken words.
Kitty could feel the weight of the moment, her heart racing. She turned to face the bed, the same bed they'd have to share after everything that had happened. It felt both incredibly close and miles away all at once.
She forced a casual smile. “Well, guess we should... get ready for bed, huh?”
Min-ho let out a quiet breath, but didn’t immediately respond. He was standing behind her, his gaze on the bed. There it was again—the awkwardness. But this time, it felt different. It wasn’t just a silly situation anymore; it was real. Their feelings were real. They both knew it, but neither knew how to navigate it yet.
Kitty fumbled for something to say, “You, uh, want the bathroom first?” she asked, her voice slightly higher than usual.
Min-ho shook his head, glancing at her with that familiar, easy smile—but there was something more there now, something softer, something deeper. “No, you go ahead, your dress is all still wet from you spilling your drink.”
She disappeared into the bathroom quickly, trying to avoid looking at herself in the mirror, knowing it would only make her more aware of what had just happened between her and Min-ho. She wasn’t sure if she was ready for this. But she knew it was happening, and she wasn’t ready to back out either.
When she emerged, Min-ho was sitting on the edge of the bed, his phone in hand, but he wasn’t looking at it. His thoughts seemed to be miles away, but when Kitty walked in, he looked up at her. His eyes softened, and for a moment, it was just the two of them. No more distractions, no more teasing—just them.
Kitty climbed into the bed, it felt huge and small at the same time. And as she settled down, she could feel Min-ho beside her, but there was a space between them. A gap that neither of them wanted to cross... but both were aching to.
The silence stretched. Kitty closed her eyes, but the moment felt too heavy to let slip by.
“Min-ho…” Her voice broke the quiet. It was soft, unsure, but there was no way around it.
He turned toward her instantly, his attention fully on her. “Yeah?”
“I... I can’t stop thinking about the-”
There was a pause. She didn’t know how to continue, and she could feel his gaze on her, even in the darkness.
“Yeah,” he said, his voice low. “Neither can I.”
Kitty swallowed hard. “It was—“
“A mistake?” Min-ho finished for her, his voice barely above a whisper.
Kitty froze, her heart pounding. “I didn’t—no. I didn’t mean it like that.”
Kitty swallowed, glancing at the bed between them, then back at him. The tension in her chest seemed to swell, and she didn’t know how to break it. “It wasn’t... it wasn’t just a kiss for me, Min-ho. It wasn’t a mistake.”
His lips parted in surprise, and his eyes held hers, searching for something, something that would tell him it was real.
“It wasn’t a mistake for me either,” he said, his voice steady, his hand reaching out slowly, fingers grazing the back of hers. He didn’t rush it. There was no need. The moment was already full, already overflowing with everything they’d been dancing around for so long.
Kitty’s breath caught in her throat. She’d always thought of him as just her friend, someone she could laugh with and tease. But now, he was looking at her like she was the only person in the world.
“Then... what does this mean?” she whispered, her voice barely audible.
“It means I want you,” Min-ho said quietly, his words soft but firm. “I want you, Covey. Not just as a friend. I want all of you.” His thumb brushed over the back of her hand, his touch so gentle it sent a shiver down her spine. “I want to take my time with you, not rush it, not pretend like I don’t feel all the things I feel for you. And I want you to know I’m here. I’m really here, and I’m not going anywhere.”
Kitty’s heart fluttered in her chest. The words were so simple, but they meant everything. She felt a warmth spread through her, the kind that made her feel like she was glowing from the inside out.
“I want that too,” she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. “But I’m scared, Min-ho. I’m scared of what happens next, of messing things up, what about Dae-”
Min-ho smiled softly, and he interrupted her, “We’re in this together. Whatever happens, we face it together. And I’m not scared of what’s next. As long as it’s with you.”
The words settled into her heart, calming the storm of uncertainty that had been swirling inside her. She leaned in closer to him, her lips barely brushing his as she whispered, “I don’t want to mess this up.”
Min-ho’s hand moved to the side of her face, his thumb brushing against her cheek. “You won’t. We’ll figure it out together.”
Kitty’s breath hitched in her chest as the silence hung thick around them. Her heart was beating so loudly that she was sure he could hear it too.
She closed her eyes, feeling the warmth of his touch, the closeness of his body next to hers, and how right it felt, despite everything. And then, without thinking, her hand reached out, resting softly on his chest.
His chest rose and fell steadily, but the tension in the air was palpable. It felt like the world had narrowed down to just the two of them, just this moment.
Kitty’s lips parted, and without saying a word, she leaned in just slightly. Their faces were so close now, their breath mingling, the space between them electric. She could feel his heartbeat against her palm, and it made her stomach flip with anticipation. Her eyes fluttered closed as she closed the distance, pressing her lips to his.
The kiss started slow, tentative, as if they were both testing the waters. Min-ho’s lips were soft against hers, the warmth of his mouth sending a wave of heat through her. His hand moved to the back of her neck, fingers threading through her hair, pulling her closer. The softness of his touch soon turned into something deeper, more urgent, and Kitty felt her pulse race in response.
She shifted closer, her body inching toward his, as if the kiss was the only thing that mattered. Min-ho’s other hand slid along her side, his touch sending sparks across her skin.
Min-ho's lips were insistent, hungry, as if he had been waiting for this moment for far too long.
Kitty kissed him back with the same intensity, her hands moving to his shoulders, her fingers tracing the lines of his muscles.
Min-ho’s hand cradled her jaw, his thumb brushing against her skin as he deepened the kiss. She pressed against him, the kiss deepening as they both gave in to the overwhelming pull between them. The warmth of him, the way his lips moved against hers, made her dizzy in the best way.
Min-ho groaned softly, his fingers threading into her hair, tilting her head to deepen the kiss even more. The intensity grew, their bodies melting together, hands exploring, grasping, needing. Time didn’t seem to exist in that moment—only the heat between them, the way their breath mingled, the way Min-ho pulled her closer as if afraid she might slip away.
Her hands slid over his chest, feeling the rapid beat of his heart beneath her fingertips. He was just as affected as she was. A shiver ran down her spine as his lips left a trail along her jaw, down to the sensitive spot just below her ear. She let out a breathy sigh, gripping his shirt as he kissed her again, their need for each other growing with every second.
They kissed until they were breathless, until the world around them completely disappeared. And when they finally pulled apart, foreheads resting together, their breaths still mingling in the space between them, they both knew there was no going back.
“Is this... okay?” Min-ho asked, his voice hushed, as if afraid to ruin the moment.
Kitty didn’t say anything at first. She just nodded, her heart still racing.
“Yeah,” she whispered, finally. “It’s okay.”
And in that moment, nothing else mattered.
Notes:
I really hope you guys love this, and kind of see where the story line is going! They are definitely endgame in this fic so don’t worry about that, but there will be drama as they try to keep their relationship secret!!! Also guys, can some of you let me know your opinions on spice levels? I asked my fans on Wattpad after this chapter but none of them responded. Do you like super spicy/mature or more soft fluff?
Chapter 9: Opening Night
Chapter Text
The soft morning light filtered through the curtains, casting a golden hue over the room. Kitty stirred first, her body heavy with the lingering sensations of the night before. Her eyes fluttered open, and the first thing she noticed was Min-ho's arm wrapped securely around her waist. His body was curled protectively around hers, his breath warm and steady against the back of her neck.
Her heart skipped a beat. The reality of the situation hit her all at once—she was in his arms. His hold was comforting, but it was also a little too intimate, and Kitty felt a wave of heat rush to her face. She froze, unsure of what to do next.
Min-ho, still asleep, gave a soft sigh, the sound of it sending a shiver through her. Slowly, she tried to inch away, but the movement caused Min-ho to stir. His arms tightened instinctively around her, pulling her back against him, his breath now against her ear.
"Morning, Covey," he murmured, his voice husky with sleep. He shifted slightly, his hand sliding gently to the back of her head, smoothing her hair away from her face. "You okay?" he asked, his lips brushing the top of her ear, sending a shiver down her spine.
Kitty turned her head slightly, her cheeks flushed, her heart still racing. "I... yeah. Just a little..." She couldn't find the words. She was flustered, overwhelmed by the closeness, by how right it felt to be held by him.
Min-ho chuckled softly, his fingers lingering in her hair, his touch light and reassuring. "I didn't mean to trap you," he teased, a smirk in his voice. "But I wouldn't mind if you stayed here a little longer."
Kitty sighed, trying to suppress the nervous flutter in her stomach. She couldn’t remember the last time she had felt this way—held like she mattered, like she was more than just a passing thought. It felt good… too good. She couldn’t stop the warmth that spread through her chest as she relaxed back into his embrace.
They lay like that for a few minutes, the quiet intimacy between them stretching out in the peaceful silence of the morning. Kitty let herself indulge in the feeling of being close to him, of being taken care of in such an effortless, tender way. She could feel the weight of his body against hers, the warmth of his breath still drifting across her skin. His thumb brushed lightly over her cheek as his hand shifted slightly, as if he couldn’t help but touch her even in the calmest of moments.
But then, the weight of the situation seemed to settle back in. Dae. She had to think about Dae. The thought tugged at her like an anchor, pulling her mind away from the present moment.
Kitty took a slow breath, shifting in Min-ho’s arms, though she didn’t move too far. “Min-ho… we need to talk.”
He nodded, his arms still around her, not letting her go. His touch remained gentle, his thumb moving in slow circles on her arm. “Yeah. About Dae, right?”
She didn’t look up at him immediately, unsure how to begin. But finally, she met his gaze, her voice softer than before. “I just… I don’t want him to get hurt. He’s been through enough, and I never wanted to be in this position with him.” She paused, biting her lip as if she were trying to figure out how to say the next part. “I don’t think we should tell him. Not yet.”
Min-ho’s expression softened, and his fingers, still resting on her arm, tightened slightly in an unspoken gesture of understanding. He leaned his forehead against hers, his eyes closing for a moment. “I agree. I don’t want to hurt him, either. But… I think we need to protect his feelings. For now, at least. When the time is right, we’ll tell him, but… not yet.”
Kitty felt her chest tighten as she nodded, feeling the weight of their decision settle between them. “I just don’t want him to think I’m sneaking around behind his back. He doesn’t deserve that. But I also don’t want to hide what’s happening between us.”
Min-ho’s hand gently cupped her chin, lifting her face to meet his gaze. His thumb stroked the soft skin of her jaw. “I know, Covey. I know. We’re not hiding it from him, we’re just… giving him time. When it’s right, we’ll share it with him. But for now, we protect him.”
Kitty swallowed, her heart thudding in her chest as she stared at him, her breath catching in her throat. She could feel the sincerity in his words, the care in his touch. “Yeah. You’re right.”
Min-ho smiled softly, brushing his thumb across her lips in a gesture that was more intimate than words could describe. “I’ve got you, Covey. Don’t forget that.”
The moment hung in the air between them, an unspoken understanding passing silently through their eyes. And for a while longer, they just stayed there, wrapped up in each other, knowing that, together, they could handle whatever came next.
—
Kitty stepped out of the bedroom to the bright light shining through the windows of the Penthouse. The staff had prepared a grab and go buffet since everyone in the suite was going to wake up at different times today to prepare for the concert.
Kitty grabbed two plates and a platter and started her way down a line of pastries, fruit, and other breakfast delights, carefully selecting a little of everything to bring back to Min-ho, who was currently in the shower.
As she was placing two juices on the platter, she hears the soft click of heels on the floor, and when she turns, she sees Eunji entering the kitchen, looking effortlessly chic even in casual clothes.
“Hey, Kitty!” Eunji greets her with a bright smile, her eyes scanning the spread of food. “Breakfeast for two?”
Kitty smiles back, nodding. “Yeah, for me and Min-ho. I just wanted to bring him something light, since we’re going to be busy today.”
Eunji raises an eyebrow, a teasing grin tugging at her lips. “Busy with what exactly? Spending time with your boyfriend?” she asks, her tone playful.
Kitty’s face immediately flushes, her heart skipping a beat. “What? No, no! We’re not—” She stammers, but Eunji’s mischievous expression makes her realize what she’s saying. She sighs, trying to hide her embarrassment. “Okay, fine. We might be... well, figuring things out. But don’t make it a big deal.”
Eunji laughs, leaning against the counter. “I won’t make it a big deal, I promise. But Kitty, it’s obvious. You two are practically attached at the hip. You can’t hide it anymore.”
Kitty rolls her eyes, half-laughing and half-nervous. “It’s just... it’s complicated. There’s a lot going on, with Dae and everything. I don’t want anyone to think I’m being sneaky or hiding things.”
Eunji’s expression softens, her voice turning more serious. “I get it. It’s hard when you don’t want to hurt someone, especially someone who cares about you. But, Kitty,” she adds, a hint of warmth in her eyes, “you deserve to be happy, too. Whatever’s going on with Min-ho... it’s clear he cares about you. And that’s what matters.”
Kitty smiles, feeling the weight of Eunji’s words. It’s comforting to hear someone else say it aloud. “Thanks, Eunji. I appreciate that.”
Eunji gives her a wink. “Anytime. But just so you know, I’m rooting for you two.”
Kitty grins, feeling lighter, her heart swelling just a little at the thought of her and Min-ho working out the way she wants.
—
The concert venue was buzzing with excitement for the opening night of the big tour. Kitty and Min-ho were backstage chatting with Eunji and Joon Ho when Dae walked up, wearing a glittering jacket that made Kitty stifle a laugh.
“How do I look?” Dae tried to give a half-smile, obviously embarrassed.
Min-ho grinned. “Like a glitter bomb.”
“Awe, jeez. Thanks, bro.” Dae swayed on his feet, his hands twitching nervously. The noise from the crowd in the audience was growing louder, making him tense.
Eunice joined them, her outfit sparkling under the lights. “Checked my heels—no snapping this time!”
Everyone chuckled, remembering Stella, or the “Ohio weirdo” as Kitty called her. Min-ho sighed and brushed his hair back with a hand.
“I am SO glad she’s out of my life, and out of all my friends' lives.”
“How are you doing with the breakup?” Eunice asked, her tone light but curious.
“Oh, don’t worry about me. I never felt that strongly for her, and I’ve definitely moved on.” Min-ho gave a slight smirk to Kitty standing next to him, to which she suppressed a giggle.
Dae noticed.
He knew Min-ho had feelings for Kitty back during winter break. He knew about the confession, and part of him still had hard feelings about it. But Min-ho had promised he was over her, that it was just a silly crush, and that he had moved on with Stella. But here he was admitting that he never really loved Stella—did that mean he still loved Kitty?
No. Dae pushed the thought out of his head. Min-ho was his best friend, and knowing how mad Dae had gotten the last time Min-ho hid his feelings, he didn’t think he’d do it again.
Besides, if Min-ho still had lingering feelings for Kitty, she would never like him back. Min-ho was too self-absorbed, obsessed with routine and his image. Kitty was literally nicknamed “the chaos queen.” It would never work.
“Dae, Eunice, you’re on in twenty. Go check your mic packs,” Mr. Moon called out.
Eunice turned and bounced away, but Dae shifted nervously on his feet, his face growing pale.
“Hey, stop, don’t be so nervous.” Min-ho grabbed his shoulders and pulled him into a hug. “Dae, you were amazing at the competition. You’re going to be incredible tonight, and, dude, you’re opening for Joon Ho with your girlfriend. That’s pretty cool.”
Kitty smiled at the two of them. She loved their friendship and that she hadn’t completely destroyed it… yet.
She savored the moment and joined their hug.
“Alright, Dae, go get to tech. We’ll be cheering you on!”
Dae pulled away from the group hug and flashed a smile before turning to join a giddy Eunice at the tech stand.
“Come on, Covey, let's go find our seats.” Min-ho gave his brother a reassuring squeeze on his arm. “Be fabulous, big bro.”
“You know I will be.” Joon Ho laughed.
Min-ho grabbed Kitty’s hand and led her toward the wings that led out to the audience. Their escape was discreet, but they were immediately spotted by fans shrieking, “That’s his brother! That’s Joon Ho’s brother!”
Kitty ducked her head behind Min-ho, very aware of all the people who had their phones out, taking pictures of them.
As they made their way along the barrier toward the VIP tent, one particularly enthusiastic fan yelled, “Oh my God, is that his girlfriend?? She’s so pretty!” Kitty felt heat rush to her face, and Min-ho suddenly jerked his hand away from hers.
They both continued along the barrier—Kitty with her head down and Min-ho looking up and waving at all the fans.
They stepped up onto the VIP platform, and security immediately stepped in place behind them. Min-ho shook hands and introduced Kitty to the array of Korean and Japanese celebrities in front of them, most of whom didn’t speak English, so Kitty could only smile and wave.
They found a spot at the very edge of the platform, right against the barrier, just as the lights were dimming to welcome Dae and Eunice to the stage.
“Hey, Kitty, about earlier with the fan, when they assumed you were my girlfriend…” Min-ho paused, unsure of how to continue.
“I didn’t want to drop your hand. I want to show you off to the world, but after what we talked about this morning with Dae, if people start posting pictures of us together, he will definitely start to get suspicious that something is going on.”
Kitty gave him a soft smile and grabbed his arm. “I know, Min-ho. It’s okay. We can just be ourselves in private for now.”
Min-ho smiled back at her with a flush of red on his cheeks. “But I didn’t mind when she assumed you were my girlfriend…” He stuttered. “I know it’s still early to talk about serious feelings since we had our first kiss literally yesterday, but I’ve wanted you, Covey, for a long time. And I think I should properly ask you this question.”
Min-ho shifted closer to her, grabbing her hands. The spotlights came on, and Young Moon emerged from the stage floor. The fans started squealing and shrieking as he introduced Dae and Eunice as the opening act.
Kitty and Min-ho were in their own world, gazing at each other while the noise of the stadium reached deafening levels.
“Will you be my girlfriend, Kitty Song Covey?” Min-ho asked, never looking away from her eyes.
Kitty blushed, but she had no doubt in her mind what her answer was going to be. “Yes, yes, absolutely.”
She leaned in as if to kiss him but jerked away suddenly when the conversation they’d just had flooded back to her memory.
“I’m sorry, I got a little excited,” Kitty laughed, flashing Min-ho a smile.
Min-ho straightened his posture, looking all around the VIP tent and then back into the audience before turning to face Kitty.
Without saying anything, he cupped her face and pulled her in. He pressed his lips against hers, and he could feel Kitty melt under the sensation.
They pulled away from each other and laughed quietly before turning to face the stage. Eunice walked out and started singing a song—an original in Korean. Dae emerged beside her, grabbing her hand and spinning her around as he sang his verse. Although Kitty couldn’t understand all the words to the song, she knew it was a love song.
She smiled, her heart feeling full. Dae had found love.
She glanced beside her at Min-ho, who was trying to yell just as loud as the fans below him to cheer on Dae. And she knew she had found love too.
Dae and Eunice finished their first song with confetti cannons. Min-ho and Kitty leaned against the barricade, cheering and clapping for their friends with huge smiles on their faces.
As the lights dimmed for the next song to start, Kitty leaned her head against Min-ho’s shoulder, and he responded by wrapping his arm around her waist.
“I’m so happy,” she whispered.
Notes:
They are official!!!!! But secret hehe, for now at least. Tokyo will finish up in the next Chapter and they’ll go to the next tour spot!
Chapter 10: Farewell Tokyo
Chapter Text
The echoes of last night’s concert still hummed in Kitty’s mind. The crowd’s cheers, the dazzling lights, the sheer energy of the show—it had been exhilarating. Dae and Eunice had been incredible on stage, and Joon Ho had owned the night with his performance. Kitty had cheered so hard her voice was still a little hoarse.
But right now, all she cared about was the warmth beside her.
Min-ho stirred slightly, his arm draped over her waist, his breathing deep and steady. Kitty blinked sleepily at the ceiling, her mind still half-foggy from sleep. She hadn’t expected sharing a bed with Min-ho to feel so… effortless. Nothing had happened, of course—just sleeping, just being near each other—(maybe a little bit of kissing) but there was a kind of comfort in waking up beside him that made her heart clench.
She turned slightly, resting on her side to look at him. His hair was messy, his usually styled waves flattened against his forehead. He looked so different like this—so unguarded. Kitty reached out on impulse, gently brushing a strand away from his face.
Min-ho’s lips curved into a smirk. “If you wanted to touch my hair, pretty girl, all you had to do was ask.”
Kitty yelped, pulling her hand back as Min-ho cracked one eye open.
“I thought you were asleep,” she muttered, pressing her face into the pillow.
“I was. But then I felt a certain someone staring at me,” Min-ho teased, his voice thick with sleep. “Admit it—you like waking up next to me.”
Kitty rolled her eyes. “It’s fine, I guess.”
Min-ho let out a low chuckle, and before she could react, he was tugging her closer, his warmth surrounding her. “Liar,” he murmured, pressing a kiss to the corner of her mouth.
Kitty sucked in a breath, her fingers instinctively gripping the fabric of his t-shirt.
Encouraged, Min-ho tilted her chin up and kissed her properly—slow and meaningful, like they had all the time in the world. It sent a shiver down Kitty’s spine, she melted into it, forgetting about the rest of the world.
Min-ho wrapped his arms tightly around her pulling her against him, Kitty let out a soft sigh as Min-ho started kissing her face, just under her eyelid, to her cheek and then down the column on her neck.
Then—
Bang, bang, bang.
“Breakfast in twenty, lovebirds!” Eunji’s voice rang through the room.
Kitty groaned. Min-ho sighed dramatically. “I hate her.”
Kitty swatted his arm. “You do not.”
“I do right now,” he grumbled. But he sat up, rubbing his face before turning to Kitty with a smirk. “But at least she didn’t barge in this time.”
—
The dining room in the hotel suite was buzzing with conversation when Kitty and Min-ho arrived. Joon Ho was deep in discussion with his PR manager, Eunice was scrolling through her phone, and Dae was stacking his plate with food from the buffet spread.
Kitty and Min-ho slipped into their seats and Dae looked up. He raised an eyebrow at them and smirked.
“So,” he started, his tone entirely too amused. “Guess you two won’t have to share a room in Taiwan, huh?”
Kitty choked on her juice. Min-ho stiffened beside her.
Eunji, ever the instigator, butted into the conversation, “Ooh, what’s this about?”
Kitty quickly wiped her mouth. “Nothing! He’s just joking.”
Mr. Moon at the head of the table set down his phone. “Actually, since it's kind of because of Dae and Eunice that we are sharing these meals together as a group, there's a room reserved for you two in the penthouse in Taiwan, that way you won't have to travel by car to eat with us.”
Dae choked on the pastry that he was in the middle of shoving into his mouth.
Mr. Moon continued, “I figured you two will share one room and Min-ho and Kitty will continue to share another since neither of them really complained about that predicament.” His eyes shot towards Min-ho who was trying to process this information, a playful smirk playing on his face.
Dae looked pale in the face, “Me and Eunice? Share a room?”
Eunice smiled at him, setting her fork down. “Oh come on now, it won't be that bad Dae.”
Dae literally started stuttering over himself, trying to find the words to make this situation better.
“Well how about me and Min-ho share one room, and you and Kitty share another? That makes it better for everyone!”
Eunice shifted uncomfortably in her chair, obviously not very happy that her boyfriend was so nervous about sharing a space with her.
“Okay then, I'll share a room with Kitty, I'm sure she’d like that better than staying with Min-ho.”
Kitty's face looked like she'd seen a ghost, she still hadn't processed that Dae would be so close to her and Min-ho, she fumbled, looking for words to respond with.
She chuckled lightly, her voice shaky, “Yes, that sounds great, Eunice!”
The table fell into an awkward silence for half a second before Eunji, bless her, clapped her hands together. “I’m so excited for Taiwan! We should go sightseeing before rehearsals start.”
The conversation shifted, and Kitty let out a quiet breath. But as she reached for her coffee, Min-ho slid his hand under the table, briefly squeezing hers. She looked up, meeting his gaze—just a quick, secret moment between them.
—
The drive to the airport was smooth, with Kitty, Min-ho, Joon Ho, and Eunji sharing a car while Dae and Eunice rode in another.
Joon Ho started, “So Eunji tells me there's something going on between the two of you? Nice to see you finally put on your big boy pants and made a move little bro.”
Kitty’s head whipped towards Eunji who was covering her mouth with her hand, trying to hide her laughter.
Min-ho turned towards kitty, the blush on his face as evident as sunrise, “I think it's okay that he knows, he's my family.”
Joon Ho interrupted, “Wait, what's this? You were planning on keeping it a secret from me?”
Kitty chuckled, grabbing hold of Min-ho’s hand, “No, nothing like that, we just can't afford to let Dae know right now, and we agreed because of that, to keep our relationship secret in general.”
Eunji laughed out loud, “I literally knew before either of you admitted it, this will be so fun seeing you try to keep it a secret.”
Min-ho squeezed Kitty's hand, giving her a reassuring smile, that it would all work out. They could keep this relationship private.
—
At the terminal, Mr. Moon was already waiting, sorting out final travel details.
“Two jets today,” he informed them. “Joon Ho, Eunji, Kitty, and Min-ho will be on the first plane, along with security and PR. The second plane is for Dae, Eunice, dancers, crew, and makeup artists.”
Dae, standing beside Eunice, glanced at Kitty. “You wanna ride with us?” He glanced at Min-ho. “You can come too.”
Min-ho tensed. Kitty hesitated.
Before she could answer, Eunji breezed in. “Sorry, Kitty can’t. She’s helping me with baby plans.”
Kitty blinked. She was so grateful for Eunji, as teasing as she could be, she was a great friend and she really came in handy during situations like this.
Dae looked skeptical, but before he could say anything, Eunice gasped. “Wait, can I come on your plane? I want to help plan the baby shower!”
Kitty glanced at Mr.Moon, expecting some pushback, but he merely nodded. “That’s fine.”
Dae looked momentarily thrown, but Eunice was already grabbing her bag. “Yay! Let’s go.”
Min-ho exhaled, subtle but noticeable. Kitty nudged him, fighting back a laugh.
And with that, they headed toward the jet—ready for the next stop on the tour.
Notes:
Hi pookies! Hope you enjoy it so far!
Chapter 11: Turbulence
Chapter Text
The flight to Taiwan felt… strange.
Kitty couldn’t shake the weight of the awkwardness hanging in the air. She tried to focus on Eunice, who was practically buzzing with excitement as she spoke with Eunji about baby shower plans, baby names, and nursery ideas.
Kitty nodded along, but her mind was elsewhere. She wanted to be excited for Eunji, to be part of the planning, but it wasn’t exactly the conversation she was in the mood for.
Min-ho sat diagonally across from the girls, having a conversation with Joon Ho, but Kitty could tell he wasn’t fully present. His gaze kept flicking over to her, like he was just as restless as she was.
The silence between them stretched, and it wasn’t until Eunice shook Kitty’s arm that she snapped back to reality.
“Kitty!” Eunice's voice was louder than intended, pulling her from her trance.
“Sorry, what were you saying?”
Eunji stifled a laugh. “We were asking your opinion on nursery colors, but you look pretty tired. We should rest before landing.”
“I’m going to go sit with Dae,” Eunice said, standing up and moving toward the front of the cabin, where Dae was asleep, drooling slightly.
Eunice flopped into the seat next to him, her head resting on his shoulder.
She knew Eunji was right. Everyone needed rest. The flight was just a five-hour hop, but it felt like so much more. Kitty wasn’t used to this constant travel.
She closed her eyes, trying to will herself to sleep, but the hum of the plane kept her mind racing. The rhythmic sound of the engine was calming, but her thoughts wouldn’t quiet.
Then she felt it— a shift in the air. It wasn’t just the subtle movement of the plane, but something else, something more electric.
She opened her eyes just as Min-ho crouched beside her seat. His eyes met hers, warm and soft in the dim cabin light, his voice barely above a whisper. “Hey, pretty girl.”
Kitty’s heart fluttered at the sound of his voice so close. She smiled, her lips curling in a sleepy grin. “Hey.”
They both sat in comfortable silence, the quiet hum of the plane cocooning them in a peaceful bubble. It was as if the noise of the world faded away, leaving just the two of them.
Min-ho broke the silence first, his voice low. “I’m going to miss sharing a room with you.”
Kitty’s chest tightened at his honesty, the vulnerability in his words catching her off guard. It felt so natural coming from him, as if he was letting down some invisible wall.
“Me too,” she whispered, her voice soft.
She leaned closer to him, the proximity making her heart race. His hand reached up, gently taking hers.
“I’m sorry to wake you,” Min-ho said quietly, his thumb brushing over her knuckles. “I just didn’t know when we’d have a chance to talk privately again.”
Kitty shook her head, smiling at him. “It’s fine. I wasn’t really sleeping, anyway.”
Min-ho smiled back, “You should try. You’re not used to constant travel.”
Kitty wanted to protest, to tell him that she didn’t want him to leave, that she wanted him by her side until the plane landed. But as she leaned back into her seat, her eyes grew heavier, and despite her best efforts, sleep began to overtake her.
Min-ho gently brushed a strand of hair from her face, his touch so tender that it made her heart ache.
“Sleep well, Covey,” he whispered, and she felt his fingers trace through her hair before his lips pressed a soft kiss to her forehead.
The gentle motion of the plane, combined with his soothing touch, made her eyelids grow heavier, and soon she was drifting off to sleep.
---
“Kitty! We’re here!”
Kitty jolted awake to Eunice’s voice, standing above her with an excited grin and sunglasses already perched on her nose.
Kitty groaned, rubbing her face. “I slept the whole time?”
Min-ho’s smirk appeared from behind Eunice, his eyes glinting mischievously. “Sure did.”
Kitty’s face flushed, and she quickly sat up, grabbing for her backpack, only to realize Min-ho already had it.
Min-ho grinned, turning his back to her to show the bright yellow bag slung over his shoulder. “Come on, Covey. Let’s go.”
---
The penthouse was breathtaking.
Kitty stood frozen in the doorway, eyes wide as she took in the sleek, modern design. Every inch of the place screamed luxury—glossy marble floors, floor-to-ceiling windows with a view that took her breath away.
But the excitement that should have accompanied such a stunning space was swiftly overshadowed by her exhaustion. She could feel the weight of travel in her bones, the fatigue threatening to overwhelm her.
“I don’t think I can move for the rest of the day,” she muttered, dragging her suitcase into the room.
Eunice dropped her bag with a thud and flopped onto one of the beds. “I swear, that flight felt like an entire day. Five hours my ass.”
Kitty let out a small laugh, sinking onto her own bed. “I know, right? But look at this place.”
Eunice, already glued to her phone, didn’t even look up. “Yeah, I’ll admire it later. Dae’s texting me.”
Kitty chuckled as she glanced out the window, thoughts of Min-ho filling her mind. She couldn’t stop thinking about their quiet moment on the plane—how much she wanted to stay there, just the two of them, far from everyone else.
Her reverie was interrupted when the door swung open, and Eunji walked in, her eyes twinkling with mischief. “What’s going on in here? Taking a nap already?”
Eunice groaned. “If only. But I don’t think I’m getting any sleep with my mind running at a million miles per minute.”
Eunji sat down at the end of Kitty’s bed, crossing her legs. “What’s going on?”
Eunice sighed, dropping her phone. “It’s Dae. I really like him—maybe even love him—but he’s so weird about feelings. Every time we try to talk or kiss, it’s like he forgets how to breathe.”
Kitty couldn’t help but laugh. “Yeah, he seems a little nervous around you. But maybe that’s not a bad thing?”
Eunice rolled her eyes. “I don’t know. He’s so sweet, but I feel like I’m always doing the work. I just want one romantic moment where he’s not second-guessing everything.”
Kitty shared a glance with Eunji before they both grinned.
“Well,” Kitty said, “let’s make one happen.”
Eunji’s smirk widened. “A romantic date?”
Eunice’s face lit up. “Yes! That’s perfect.”
The three of them immediately started brainstorming, their laughter filling the room. It was a perfect distraction from the chaos in Kitty’s mind.
---
Later, as Eunice prepared for her date, the girls helped her get ready. They fluffed her hair, adjusted her outfit, and made sure everything was just right.
“Looks amazing,” Kitty said, giving her a thumbs-up.
Eunji nodded approvingly. “If Dae doesn’t appreciate this, he’s out.”
Eunice’s face twisted in nervous laughter. “Thank you, guys. Seriously. I need this to work.”
Kitty gave her a quick hug. “You got this. Now go have fun.”
As Eunice and Dae left for their date, the girls lingered for a moment, and Eunji raised an eyebrow at Kitty.
“So,” she teased, “what are you going to do now that you’re alone with Min-ho?”
Kitty rolled her eyes. “Nothing! We’re just hanging out, okay?”
Eunji raised her hands in mock surrender. "Sure, sure. You two have fun."
After Eunji left, Kitty sat on her bed, her fingers fidgeting with the hem of her shirt. The room felt strangely quiet, and she found herself growing nervous.
It didn’t take long for a knock on the door to break the silence.
When she opened it, Min-ho stood there, holding two steaming cups of ramen. “Thought you might want something to eat,” he said softly, his eyes warm and inviting.
Kitty’s heart skipped a beat. The space between them, once filled with awkward tension, now felt charged, like something had shifted between them.
“Thank you,” she said, a small smile pulling at her lips as she stepped aside to let him in.
Min-ho set the steaming bowls of ramen down on the small table beside Kitty’s bed before sitting next to her. They both dug in, savoring the warmth of the meal.
"So, what do you think of Eunice and Dae?" Min-ho asked between bites, his eyes glancing sideways at Kitty. "They're adorable, right?"
Kitty smiled, her lips still tingling from the spice of the ramen. "Yeah, they really are. It's kind of cute how nervous Dae was about their date."
Min-ho chuckled softly. "I mean, it's understandable. He likes her a lot, but he’s so awkward. I can’t blame him, though. Dating is scary."
"How come you're not nervous around me?" she asked softly, her voice quieter than usual. It was a question that had been lingering on her mind, something she hadn’t quite realized until now.
Min-ho's expression softened as he looked at her, setting his ramen cup down and turning to face her. "Why would I be nervous?" he said, his voice low and sincere. "You’re the one person I don’t want to be nervous around, I won’t waste any time. I want to use every opportunity I have to be with you...to be close to you."
Kitty’s heart skipped a beat, her pulse quickening as his words washed over her. She swallowed hard, suddenly aware of how close they were, the intimacy of the moment hanging thick in the air.
Before she could respond, Min-ho reached out and gently took the ramen cup from her hands, setting it aside. His eyes never left hers as he slowly leaned back on the bed, guiding her with him, his body now hovering just above hers.
Kitty’s breath caught in her throat as his lips brushed against hers, slow and tentative at first. The spark between them ignited almost immediately, a rush of heat that consumed both of them. Min-ho’s hand slid to her cheek, cupping it gently as he deepened the kiss, his other hand resting lightly on her waist.
Kitty’s heart raced as she responded, her hands moving to his chest, feeling the warmth of his skin through the fabric of his shirt. Every touch, every caress, sent shivers down her spine, and soon, the world outside the room didn’t matter. It was just the two of them, locked in an unspoken connection, their kiss growing more urgent, more desperate.
His body pressed closer to hers, their breaths mingling, as the intensity between them built. Kitty felt herself melting into him, the rhythm of their movements becoming more in sync with each passing second. The world faded away, and all that mattered was the sensation of his lips on hers, the feel of his hands tracing the curve of her body, and the warmth that seemed to radiate between them.
Their kisses were deep and lingering, as if they were trying to convey everything they couldn’t say with words. Time seemed to stretch, every moment lingering, every touch more meaningful than the last.
Eventually, the intensity of the kiss slowed, both of them breathless, their foreheads resting against each other as they tried to catch their breath. Min-ho’s hands still lingered on her waist, and Kitty smiled, a soft, satisfied smile that spoke volumes about how she felt.
"I’ve wanted that for so long," Kitty whispered, her voice barely audible, the words hanging in the air like a fragile confession.
Min-ho’s smile was slow, almost shy, as he brushed a strand of hair from her face. "So have I," he replied, his voice full of warmth and tenderness.
They stayed like that for a moment longer, their bodies still pressed together, before Min-ho shifted, flipping their positions so that she was lying against his chest. He wrapped his arm around her, and they both settled in, the gentle rhythm of their breathing covering them like a blanket.
Kitty closed her eyes, feeling the exhaustion of the day finally settling in, her body warm and content in his embrace.
But in the quiet of the room, they didn’t hear the soft click of the door opening, nor the sound of footsteps approaching. They were lost in each other, unaware of the interruption that was about to come.
Eunice, standing in the doorway, froze, her mouth hung open at the scene before her. Her eyes widened in shock, her face flushing with a mix of surprise and something far more intense.
“What the f—?”
Kitty and Min-ho bolted upright, their faces flushed with embarrassment. Kitty’s heart raced in panic as she looked at Eunice, who was still standing there, wide-eyed, clearly not knowing how to process what she was seeing.
Notes:
The next chapter gets a little crazy! You have been warned!
Chapter 12: Breaking Point
Chapter Text
Warnings:
Mentions of anxiety and panic attacks, and overall emotional content.
“What the f—”
Eunice stood frozen in the doorway, eyes wide, mouth hanging open in sheer disbelief.
Kitty and Min-ho jolted apart, Kitty scrambling to sit up while Min-ho instinctively shielded her, turning toward Eunice. The air was thick with tension, Kitty’s heart pounding so loudly she swore everyone in the room could hear it.
Eunice’s initial shock faded into something much sharper. Her brows furrowed, and anger twisted her expression as she stormed into the room, slamming the door behind her.
“Are you kidding me?” Her voice was harsh, laced with betrayal. She turned on Min-ho first, her glare cutting straight through him. “How could you do this to Dae? He’s your best friend!”
Min-ho held his ground, jaw tightening. “Eunice, it’s not—”
“No! Don’t even try to justify it!” she snapped. “Dae has always had your back! And this is what you do? Go behind his back with Kitty?”
Kitty flinched, guilt clawing at her chest.
Eunice whirled toward her next. “And you—how long has this been going on? Were you ever planning on telling him? Or were you just going to keep sneaking around like this?”
Kitty opened her mouth, but nothing came out.
Eunice scoffed. “God, I knew something was up. I just didn’t think you two would be this—” She exhaled sharply, eyes glistening. “I can’t believe you’re keeping this a secret. Dae deserves to know.”
Min-ho took a step forward, his voice firm but calm. “Eunice, stop.”
She turned on him again. “Stop?”
“Yes.” Min-ho’s expression softened, but there was no mistaking the steel in his voice. “You don’t know everything. You don’t know how we feel or what we’re going through. This isn’t easy for us either.”
Eunice’s nostrils flared. “Then tell him.”
Silence.
Kitty’s throat tightened. She wanted to—she really did. But Dae… Dae was the one person she didn’t know how to face with this.
Eunice let out a bitter laugh, shaking her head. “Wow. I really thought you were better than this, Kitty.”
The words cut deep.
Without another word, Eunice turned and stormed out, the door slamming behind her.
Kitty sucked in a shaky breath, but it felt like she couldn’t get enough air. The room spun, her chest tightening.
Min-ho turned to her immediately, concern flashing in his eyes. “Covey?”
“I need to talk to Dae—I need to get to him before Eunice does.” Kitty’s mind raced as she tried to steady herself, pushing past Min-ho in a daze.
He caught her arm before she could stumble forward. “Kitty, wait.”
“I have to do this.” Her voice shook, and her chest tightened even more.
“Let me talk to him,” Min-ho pleaded, his grip gentle but firm. “You need to rest.” The genuine fear in his voice made her hesitate, but she forced herself to stand tall.
“No. This is my fight this time.” She choked out the words, pulling away and making her way toward the living area.
---
Kitty stepped into the penthouse’s open space, her eyes scanning for Dae. He was laughing with Eunji, his face lighter than she’d seen in a long time. He looked… happy.
Her stomach twisted.
Eunji was the first to notice her. “Kitty? Are you okay? What’s wrong?”
Kitty forced a tight smile, though her heart was hammering. “I’m fine, I’m fine.” She wasn’t sure who she was trying to convince—Eunji or herself.
She turned to Dae. “Can I talk to you?”
Dae’s expression shifted, concern flickering in his eyes. “Of course, Kitty. What’s going on?”
“Let’s go out on the balcony.”
Dae nodded and followed her. Kitty slid open the glass door, stepping out into the crisp summer air. The cool breeze filled her lungs, grounding her for a moment. She needed to get through this. Dae had to hear this from her.
They both leaned against the railing, the skyline stretching out before them.
Dae studied her carefully before reaching out, his hand resting on her shoulder. “What is it? You look like you’ve seen a ghost.”
Kitty inhaled sharply, trying to steady herself.
“I wanted to talk to you about something.” She swallowed hard. “It’s about Min-ho.”
Dae’s expression hardened in an instant. “What did he do?”
Kitty exhaled shakily. “I know it hurt you when you found out that Min-ho told me he loved me, and I never told you. And for that, I am truly sorry.”
Dae’s gaze dropped to the ground, his fingers tightening around the railing. The silence stretched between them, heavy and unspoken.
Finally, he spoke. “Can I be honest with you, Kitty?”
“Always.”
Dae took a breath. “I was worried you loved him back. And not because I still have feelings for you—I don’t. I love Eunice. Tonight only made me realize how much.”
Kitty nodded, bracing herself.
“But…” Dae’s voice grew quieter. “When we dated, nothing hurt more than knowing you had feelings for someone else. If I imagine you loving one person—completely, wholly—it’s like a knife in my chest.” He exhaled. “Like I wasn’t good enough to be the one for you.”
Kitty’s heart clenched. The guilt inside her felt like it was consuming her whole.
Dae hesitated before continuing. “And then there was Min-ho. He was selfish enough to confess to you less than an hour after we broke up. He was supposed to be my best friend, Kitty.” His voice cracked. “He was supposed to have my back. And instead, he—” Dae broke off, shaking his head.
Kitty swallowed back the lump in her throat. She had to say something. Anything.
“I wasn’t in love with Yuri for our whole relationship,” she said softly. “I didn’t think I could ever feel anything for anyone but you. But Yuri… she was this shiny, new thing, and when I realized I was bi, my body just gravitated toward her. She helped me figure out who I was. And for a while, I thought that meant I had to love her.”
She forced herself to meet Dae’s eyes. “But looking back, I don’t think it was ever really love. I think I was just attached to the idea of her.”
Dae’s jaw tightened.
“I’ll always regret that it happened while we were together,” Kitty whispered. “But please, don’t think you weren’t enough for me. You were. I never even looked at anyone else while we were long-distance. It was only when we broke up that I—” She exhaled shakily. “I freaked out and latched onto the first person I saw.”
She felt like a horrible person. Why was she even trying to justify herself?
Dae hesitated, his fingers curling against the railing. “Do you really mean that?”
“I know it doesn’t fix anything. I still hurt you, and I’ll never forgive myself for that. But please, don’t think it was because you weren’t enough.” Kitty’s voice broke. “Because you are, Dae. You’re my best friend.”
Dae was silent for a long moment. Then, to her surprise, he smiled.
“It does mean something, Kitty,” he admitted. “It means a lot.”
The weight in her chest eased—just a little. They stood there in quiet understanding, letting the night air carry away some of the hurt between them.
Then Kitty inhaled sharply. “So, about Min-ho—”
Dae cut her off with a sigh. “I’m sorry. I hate the way I reacted to that whole situation. But I know you and Min-ho would never work out, and I know you would never feel something for him.” He let out a laugh just at the thought.
Kitty froze.
Her throat closed up, her pulse spiking.
Because he was wrong. So, so wrong.
Kitty didn’t just feel something for Min-ho. She loved him.
Her skin prickled, heat crawling up her spine. Her palms dampened with sweat, her head spun—she suddenly felt too hot, too dizzy, too overwhelmed.
“I— I need to go to the bathroom,” she blurted out, turning and hurrying inside the penthouse before Dae could see the sheer panic on her face.
---
Dae stayed on the balcony, soaking in the night air, his thoughts flickering between Kitty’s words and the warmth in his chest from his night with Eunice.
He didn’t hear the sliding door open until a soft voice called out, “What are you doing out here, babe?”
He turned to see Eunice standing there, a soft smile on her lips.
Dae’s face softened. “Oh, hi, my love.” He reached for her hands, pressing a kiss to her cheek. “Just talking with Kitty. She wanted to clear things up about the whole Min-ho situation.”
Eunice’s expression brightened. “Oh! So you know now, and you’re okay with it! I’m so glad Kitty told you.”
Dae blinked. “Okay with what?”
Eunice’s smile faltered. “Oh—” Realization dawned in her eyes.
Something in Dae’s brain clicked.
Kitty. Min-ho. The shared room. The way she looked at him. The nervousness. The secrecy.
His jaw tightened, his eyes darkening with cold understanding. He let go of Eunice’s hands, his body stiffening.
Then, without a word, he turned and strode inside the penthouse.
“Dae, wait!” Eunice called after him.
But it was too late.
Dae knew now. And nothing would ever be the same.
---
Dae slammed the bedroom door open, his entire body radiating fury. His chest heaved as his eyes locked onto Min-ho, who was holding an almost hysterical Kitty in his arms.
Min-ho pulled away instantly, instinctively stepping in front of Kitty like a shield.
“Dae—” Min-ho started.
“Shut up.” Dae’s voice was sharp, cutting through the air like a knife. His eyes burned with betrayal.
He turned his glare to Kitty. “How could you?” His voice was raw, filled with hurt. “How could you not tell me?”
He took a step closer, fists clenched at his sides, sweat glistening on his forehead.
“How long?”
“Dae, stop. Kitty’s not well,” Min-ho said, his voice firm but pleading.
“HOW FUCKING LONG?” Dae roared, his face contorted with rage.
Min-ho exhaled, his hands lifting in surrender. “The same day you came to Tokyo. Right before we saw you.”
Dae’s breath hitched. “So you lied,” he said, his voice quiet before it spiked again. “There’s no journalism project. Kitty’s here for you. And when you knew I was coming along too, you just—just lied.” His voice cracked with disbelief. “You didn’t even hesitate.”
Kitty couldn’t find her voice. Her body trembled, her chest tightening, her thoughts spiraling.
“When were you planning on telling me?” Dae demanded.
Silence. The air was suffocating.
Dae let out a bitter laugh. “You know, I kept telling myself I was imagining things. That there couldn’t be anything between you two because Min-ho is so selfish. But it turns out, you’re just as selfish, Kitty.”
His words cut deeper than a blade.
Kitty pressed a trembling hand to her chest, her vision blurring as the walls seemed to close in around her. Her lungs seized, refusing to expand, the panic crushing her like an unbearable weight. Dae was still talking, hurling insults at her, but his words were nothing more than muffled echoes in the chaos. Everything was spiraling too fast.
Then—nothing.
Her breath stopped.
The world went black.
Her knees buckled, and before she could register what was happening, she collapsed forward, her head crashing against Min-ho’s back.
Min-ho spun around, catching her just before she hit the floor. “Kitty!” His voice cracked, his heart slamming against his ribs.
Dae’s rage evaporated in an instant. The fire in his eyes was doused by sheer panic as he saw Kitty limp in Min-ho’s arms. His fists uncurled, his breath hitched—guilt flooding in like a tidal wave.
He moved without thinking, stepping forward to help. “Is she—”
A sharp impact stopped him in his tracks. Min-ho had thrown his arm up, slamming it against Dae’s chest.
“Don’t touch her.” Min-ho’s voice trembled with fury, but his eyes shimmered with unshed tears. He tightened his grip on Kitty, shielding her like she was the most precious thing in the world.
“This is your fault,” he seethed, his voice laced with anguish. “I told you to stop.” His breaths came ragged, his entire body shaking. “Get. Out.”
Dae stumbled back, the weight of Min-ho’s words sinking in, suffocating him.
This was his fault.
His chest caved with guilt, his hands hovering uselessly at his sides.
Still, he reached for Kitty again, desperation clawing at him. “Min-ho, I—”
“I SAID GET OUT!” Min-ho’s voice was a raw, wounded scream.
The force of it sent Dae reeling. His throat tightened, his eyes stinging as he took one last look at Kitty—unconscious and vulnerable in Min-ho’s arms.
Tears spilled down his cheeks as he turned, yanking the door open and stumbling out, the weight of his mistake crashing over him with every step.
Notes:
Hey guys….. I’M SO SORRY! I promise this goes along with the story and Dae turns back into a good guy, they will have heartwarming content again so soon I promise!!!!!!!!!! Dae talking about Yuri and Kitty broke me though - and I literally wrote it.
That’s all that I will post on Ao3 today! You will get the rest of the chapters and catch up with Wattpad tomorrow!
Chapter 13: Breathe
Chapter Text
Kitty’s eyes fluttered open, her vision hazy as she tried to focus. The soft glow of the bedside lamp cast warm light across the room, but everything still felt distant, like she wasn’t fully there. Her head ached, her body heavy against the mattress.
A cool sensation pressed against her forehead—a damp cloth. She blinked, the blurry figure beside her coming into focus.
Min-ho.
He sat on the edge of the bed, his expression filled with worry, though he tried to mask it. His hand moved in slow, soothing circles against her arm. “Covey?” His voice was barely above a whisper. “You’re awake.”
The panic still clawed at her chest, remnants of it making her breaths shallow. She tried to sit up, but Min-ho was already there, gently pressing a hand against her shoulder. “Hey, take it easy,” he murmured. “You scared the hell out of me.”
Kitty swallowed, her throat dry. “W-what happened?”
Min-ho hesitated. “You fainted.” His thumb brushed over her skin in a comforting rhythm. “Your body just… shut down.” His voice wavered slightly at the end, showing how scared he really was.
The weight of everything came rushing back. Dae. The fight. The secret unraveling. Her body tensed, her breathing turning uneven again.
Min-ho noticed immediately. “Hey, no,” he said softly, shifting closer. “You’re safe. Just breathe, okay? I’ve got you.”
Kitty swallowed hard, her fingers gripping the sheets beneath her. “I need to talk to Dae.” Her voice was quiet but firm.
Min-ho tensed beside her, his jaw clenching. “No. Absolutely not.”
Kitty tried to push herself up again, but Min-ho stopped her, his hand steady against her shoulder. “Min-ho, please,” she pleaded. “I need to fix this. I need to—”
“Fix what?” Min-ho cut in, his voice sharp but not unkind. “You didn’t do anything wrong, Covey. Dae did.” His grip on her arm softened, but his expression was anything but. “He pushed you so hard you passed out. And you think I’m going to let you go back out there and deal with him again?”
Kitty shook her head. “But he didn’t mean to—”
“I don’t care.” Min-ho’s voice dropped lower, and there was an edge of fury beneath it. “He lost control. He hurt you. And I’m not going to sit here and pretend that’s okay.” He exhaled sharply, raking a hand through his hair. “I already told my driver to take us somewhere else. We’re leaving.”
Kitty’s heart pounded. “Leaving?”
“Yes. Another hotel. I don’t want you anywhere near Dae until you’re feeling better.”
“But—”
“No, Kitty.” Min-ho’s voice was firm, but his touch stayed gentle. “You can barely breathe without panicking. You need space. You need to rest. And I’m not letting you stay here with him.”
Kitty searched his face, seeing nothing but unwavering determination. Her chest ached—not from panic this time, but from the weight of everything.
She exhaled shakily. “You’re really that mad at him?”
Min-ho scoffed. “Are you kidding? I want to go out there and knock him out.” His hand instinctively tightened over hers. “But you are my priority. Getting you out of here is my priority.”
Kitty bit her lip. There was no arguing with him. And deep down, a part of her knew he was right.
She swallowed past the lump in her throat, her body still trembling as the last remnants of panic refused to fully let go. Min-ho’s hand never left her arm, his touch grounding. “Breathe, Covey,” he murmured, his voice softer now. “I’ve got you.”
She closed her eyes, focusing on the warmth of his palm, the slow, steady rise and fall of his breathing. “I hate this,” she whispered, her voice raw.
“I know,” Min-ho said gently. “But you’re okay. You’re safe.”
She opened her eyes, looking up at him. There was worry etched into every inch of his face, but there was also something else—something steady, unwavering.
A knock on the door interrupted the moment. “Mr. Moon?” a voice called. “The car is ready.”
Kitty blinked, still feeling a little disoriented. She barely registered Min-ho responding before an assistant entered, grabbing the bags he had already packed.
“Come on.” Min-ho shifted closer, sliding an arm around her waist as he helped her sit up. “Take it slow.”
Kitty tried, but as soon as she swung her legs over the bed, her body wobbled. Min-ho was there instantly, slipping both arms around her without hesitation. “I’ve got you,” he murmured against her hair.
She didn’t argue. Just let herself lean into him as they made their way to the door.
As soon as they stepped into the living space, Eunji and Joon Ho looked up.
Eunji’s eyes widened. “Kitty—oh my God, are you okay?” She moved toward her, concern radiating off of her.
Joon Ho, meanwhile, locked eyes with his brother, his brows furrowing. “You’re leaving?”
Min-ho’s grip on Kitty tightened. “We’ll talk soon,” he said, his voice short but not unkind.
Eunji reached for Kitty’s free hand, squeezing it. “Are you sure you’re okay?”
“She will be,” Min-ho answered before Kitty could. “Once we’re out of here.”
Joon Ho exhaled, clearly frustrated, but he didn’t push. “Fine. Just don’t disappear on me, okay?”
Min-ho gave him a nod before leading Kitty toward the door.
Kitty glanced back at Eunji, guilt creeping in, but Min-ho didn’t stop. His focus was set, his touch steady as he guided her forward.
They were leaving. And for the first time in hours, Kitty felt like she could finally breathe.
The night air was cool as Min-ho guided Kitty toward the waiting car. The driver opened the door without a word, and Min-ho helped her inside before sliding in next to her. As soon as the door shut, separating them from the tension of the penthouse, Kitty let out a shaky breath.
Min-ho didn’t say anything at first. He just reached over, adjusting the blanket the assistant had left for her, tucking it around her shoulders.
“Close your eyes, Covey,” he murmured. “Just rest.”
Kitty wanted to protest—wanted to say something, anything—but the exhaustion in her body was heavier than the words on her tongue. Slowly, she let her head fall against Min-ho’s shoulder, her fingers lightly gripping the fabric of his sleeve.
Min-ho leaned into her touch. His hand came up, brushing gently through her hair, his fingertips tracing soothing patterns against her scalp.
Kitty sighed, the warmth of him lulling her into much-needed sleep.
Min-ho exhaled, leaning his head back against the seat, his jaw tightening as he stared out the window. The anger at Dae still burned beneath his skin, but right now, none of that mattered.
Right now, all that mattered was Kitty.
And he wasn’t going to let anything hurt her again.
---
The car ride was silent except for the hum of the city around them. Min-ho barely moved, afraid that any shift would wake Kitty. She was still curled against his shoulder, her breathing soft and steady, her fingers loosely clutching his sleeve.
When the car finally pulled up to the hotel entrance, the driver stepped out to retrieve their bags. Min-ho hesitated, reluctant to wake her.
“Covey,” he whispered, brushing a strand of hair from her cheek. “We’re here.”
Kitty stirred, her eyelashes fluttering as she blinked up at him. For a moment, she looked lost—disoriented by the unfamiliar setting. Then her eyes focused on Min-ho, and some of the panic faded.
“We’re… at a hotel?” Her voice was groggy, barely above a whisper.
“Yeah,” Min-ho said gently. “Come on, let’s get you inside.”
He stepped out first, then reached back in, offering his hands to help her out. She took them, and when she wobbled slightly on her feet, he instinctively wrapped an arm around her waist, steadying her against him.
Kitty didn’t pull away.
The hotel lobby was quiet at this late hour, a stark contrast to the chaos of the night. The receptionist greeted them politely, already aware of their reservation. Min-ho barely paid attention, too focused on keeping Kitty close as they moved toward the elevator.
Once inside, Kitty leaned against the mirrored wall, her exhaustion evident. Min-ho pressed the button for their floor, then turned back to her. “You okay?”
She nodded, though she still looked drained. “I just… I can’t believe everything that happened tonight.”
Min-ho sighed, shoving a hand through his hair. “Yeah, well, you don’t have to think about it right now. Just focus on resting.”
The elevator doors opened, and Min-ho guided her down the hall to their suite. He swiped the keycard, then led her inside.
The room was spacious and modern, with warm lighting and a plush king-sized bed. Their luggage was already waiting. Min-ho didn’t let go of Kitty until they were inside, making sure she was steady before stepping back.
“You should lie down,” he said, already walking over to adjust the pillows. “I’ll get you some water.”
Kitty sat on the edge of the bed, watching him move around the room, her heart aching at how effortlessly he took care of her.
“Min-ho,” she murmured, stopping him in his tracks.
He turned to face her, his expression softening.
She swallowed, feeling her throat tighten. “Thank you. For everything.”
Min-ho exhaled, then crossed the room and crouched in front of her, taking her hands in his.
“I told you, Covey,” he said quietly, his thumbs brushing against her knuckles. “I’m not going anywhere.”
Kitty felt her chest tighten again, but this time, it wasn’t from panic.
It was something else entirely.
Min-ho disappeared into the bathroom for a moment, returning with a damp washcloth. He knelt in front of Kitty again, his movements slow and careful as he lifted the cloth to her face.
“Close your eyes,” he murmured.
Kitty obeyed, sighing softly as the cool fabric brushed against her skin. Min-ho wiped away the remnants of dried tears, the warmth of his fingertips ghosting over her cheek. He was so gentle, so patient, as if she might break if he handled her too roughly.
When he was done, he set the cloth aside and grabbed the glass of water from the nightstand. “Drink,” he said, holding it out to her.
Kitty hesitated before taking a sip, her throat dry and tight. The water helped, but it didn’t wash away the overwhelming weight pressing down on her.
Min-ho sat beside her on the bed, watching her closely. “What’s going on in that head of yours, Covey?”
Kitty stared down at the glass in her hands, blinking against the burn of fresh tears.
“I think…” She took a shaky breath. “I think I should just go back home. To Portland.”
Min-ho went completely still. His jaw clenched, his fingers curling into the comforter.
Kitty could feel his tension, the way his entire body stiffened at her words. But when he finally spoke, his voice was steady. “If that’s what you want…” He exhaled, glancing away for a moment before looking back at her. “Then that’s what we’ll do.”
Kitty’s breath hitched. “We?”
Min-ho nodded, his expression unwavering. “I’m going with you.”
Her lips parted in surprise. “Min-ho, you—”
“I’m not letting you go through this alone.” His voice was firm, leaving no room for argument. “If Portland is where you need to be, then that’s where I’ll be too.”
A tear slipped down Kitty’s cheek. She wasn’t even sure why—maybe because of how much had happened tonight, maybe because she felt so lost, or maybe because Min-ho was right here, holding her up when she felt like falling apart.
Min-ho reached out, catching the tear with his thumb before it could fall any further.
“You don’t have to decide anything right now,” he said gently. “Just rest, okay? We’ll figure everything out later.”
Kitty swallowed the lump in her throat and nodded.
Min-ho stood and pulled the covers back. “Come on,” he urged softly. “Lie down.”
Kitty let him tuck her in, her body sinking into the mattress. Min-ho hesitated for only a moment before he settled beside her, close enough to keep watch over her, but not close enough to overwhelm.
As exhaustion pulled her under, Kitty felt the warmth of his hand resting lightly over hers.
And for the first time all night, she didn’t feel so alone.
Notes:
Hey everyone!!!! Chapters 13 - 19 will be posted today to catch you up with Wattpad!! Starting tomorrow there will be daily one chapter updates!
Chapter 14: Moving Forward
Chapter Text
Min-ho sat quietly at the edge of the bed, his gaze soft as he watched Kitty sleep. The morning light poured through the curtains, casting a golden glow over her features. He couldn’t help but smile as she shifted slightly, still lost in the comfort of her dreams. He had spent the last few hours preparing breakfast for her, wanting everything to be perfect. The tray, arranged with fresh fruit, scrambled eggs, toast, and a hot cup of coffee, rested beside him. He knew he didn’t want to wake her too soon, but he also knew she needed to eat.
Finally, she stirred, her eyelids fluttering open slowly, still heavy with sleep. When her gaze landed on him, her face softened into a lazy smile. “Good morning,” she mumbled.
“Good morning, pretty girl,” Min-ho replied, his voice almost a whisper, as if afraid to disturb the peaceful silence between them. He reached for the tray and gently placed it in front of her. “I made breakfast. You should eat. You’re looking much better today.”
Kitty stretched, her body relaxing into Min-ho’s warmth. His attention, his kindness—it felt like the first real sense of peace she’d had in days. “Thanks, Min-ho,” she whispered, taking a bite. “I feel better... much better than yesterday.”
Min-ho watched her closely, his expression softening. He could see the change in her, the relief in her eyes as she ate, slowly regaining the energy she’d lost. It made him happy to see her looking more like herself. He wanted to make sure she felt safe and cared for, especially after everything that had happened. She deserved that much—deserved to know she wasn’t alone in all of this.
As they sat there in the quiet comfort of the room, the atmosphere shifted, and Min-ho’s voice broke the silence again, this time carrying a note of concern.
“So,” he began, carefully choosing his words, “do you still feel like you want to go home to Portland, or...?” His voice trailed off, allowing room for her response.
Kitty hesitated, her thoughts swirling as she considered the possibility of returning home. The idea of being in Portland was comforting in a way, but it also felt like running away from all the complications she was facing here. “I don’t know,” she admitted, her fingers tracing the rim of her coffee cup, “I just... I’m not sure.”
Min-ho’s expression remained soft, his eyes never leaving her. “If you want, we can go. I’ll buy the tickets immediately, whatever you need. Just say the word.” His voice was sincere, and there wasn’t an ounce of pressure.
Kitty’s heart fluttered at the depth of his care. She met his gaze, feeling an overwhelming sense of warmth. Before she could answer, a knock at the door interrupted them.
“I’ll get it,” he said softly, leaning down to kiss her forehead before carefully smoothing her hair back. He stood and made his way toward the door.
Peering through the peephole, Min-ho’s shoulders tensed when he saw Eunice and Eunji standing on the other side. He sighed, but he knew he couldn’t keep them out.
Reluctantly, he opened the door, his expression guarded. “What are you guys doing here? It’s barely noon, and you have a concert tonight.”
Eunji gave him a knowing look, her voice soft yet firm. “We’re here for Kitty,” she explained, her tone gentle. “She’s been through a lot, and we’re her friends. We’re here to support her.”
Min-ho glanced at them, his body still rigid with unease, but he could see their genuine concern. As much as he just wanted Kitty to rest, he knew it wasn’t harmful for them to visit, they meant well.
“Alright, you can come in.” Min-ho sighed, stepping aside to let them in. He walked back into the room. “You have visitors, Covey.”
Kitty’s gaze lifted to meet Eunice and Eunji’s smiles, her heart rate quickening at the sight of them. The events of the previous night seemed to loom over her, but the presence of Min-ho beside her, steady and calming, reminded her that she wasn’t alone. She would be okay.
“Hey, guys,” Kitty greeted them softly, her voice still carrying a hint of weariness but also warmth.
“Hey, Kitty! We brought you some snacks!” Eunice exclaimed, setting a basket of Kitty’s favorite candies and snacks down on the bedside table before sitting cross-legged at the bottom of the bed.
Eunice’s playful energy shifted to something more sincere. Her voice softened as she met Kitty’s gaze. “I just want to tell you how incredibly sorry I am for the way I reacted to you and Min-ho. I know how wrong of me it was to pressure you into telling Dae, and getting mad at you for keeping it a secret.” She paused, her eyes flicking to the floor for a moment before looking back at Kitty. “After the way he reacted, I understand why you did what you did, and I know you can’t help the way you feel.”
Eunice placed her hand gently on Kitty’s arm, giving it a reassuring squeeze. “You don’t have to forgive me, but please know that I truly am sorry.”
Kitty smiled softly, her heart lightning. She placed her hand over Eunice’s, her voice gentle. “I forgive you, Eunice. I know you were just shocked.”
Eunice let out a light chuckle, a bit of awkwardness slipping into her tone. “Yeah, honestly, I don’t know why I was so surprised! Looking back, you two weren’t exactly the best at keeping it a secret.” She laughed, and soon Kitty joined her, the tension easing.
Eunji joined Eunice at the bottom of the bed. Her eyes softened as she addressed Kitty. “How are you feeling, girl?”
“Better, much better. Min-ho’s been amazing,” Kitty replied, her smile brightening as she glanced up at him.
Min-ho’s heart warmed at her words, but he remained quiet, standing off to the side, watching over her with a calm expression. He could tell she was starting to return to herself, and it made him happy to see her smile after everything that had happened.
Eunice glanced up at Min-ho, her gaze lingering for a moment before she spoke. “Kitty, Dae feels really bad about everything. He said he’s not going to perform tonight, and he wants to apologize to you.” She paused, studying Kitty’s reaction. “He feels awful about how everything went down.”
Min-ho’s body stiffened at the mention of Dae, his protective instincts flaring. “No way,” he muttered under his breath, disbelief and anger bubbling up. His eyes flicked to Kitty, concern for her etched on his features. “He wants to apologize? After everything?”
Eunice nodded, her expression soft. “He really does. He’s been struggling with it, Kitty. He feels terrible, and he knows he was wrong.”
Kitty felt a knot tighten in her stomach, unsure of how to approach the situation with Dae. “I appreciate that he wants to apologize. I really do,” she said slowly, her eyes meeting Min-ho’s. “Maybe we should give him the chance to explain?”
Min-ho shook his head firmly, his expression hardening. “I don’t think it’s a good idea. Not yet. I don’t want him coming near you until I’m sure he’s sincere.”
Eunji looked at Min-ho, her tone calm but firm. “Maybe you could go talk to him first, privately. Make sure he is sincere.”
Kitty watched Min-ho’s body tense, his fists clenching at his sides. “I’m not thrilled with that idea,” Min-ho muttered, his voice low, “But... for Kitty, I’ll go talk to him. I’ll hear him out.”
Kitty’s gaze softened, touched by his willingness to try. “Thank you,” she whispered, giving him a small, grateful smile.
Min-ho gave her a tight nod, still unsure about the whole situation but willing to make the effort for her. “My dad will kill him if he doesn’t perform tonight, so I’d better try to convince him to do that.”
He walked over to Kitty, leaning down to kiss her gently on the cheek. “I’ll be back soon, Covey. I’m leaving you in the care of these two.” He gave her a small smile, his eyes lingering on her face.
Kitty reached out, squeezing his hand gently before he left. She was nervous about the confrontation between Min-ho and Dae, but she knew it was a necessary step if they were ever going to move forward. As Min-ho turned to leave, Kitty’s voice stopped him.
“Hey,” she called softly.
Min-ho turned to face her, his expression still serious.
“Try to be nice, okay?” she said, her voice almost pleading.
Min-ho grimaced, a small sigh escaping him. Being nice to Dae was the last thing he wanted to do, but he offered a reluctant smile. “I’ll try.”
With that, he stepped out of the room, leaving Kitty to wonder what the outcome of this conversation would be.
Chapter 15: Confrontation
Chapter Text
Min-ho sat in the backseat of the car, his fingers gripping his knees as he tried to steady his breathing. His entire body buzzed with frustration, his mind replaying every single thing Dae had said to Kitty. He told himself—over and over—that he needed to stay calm. That he wasn’t here to fight. That this was for Kitty.
But no matter how much he tried to suppress it, the anger kept clawing its way to the surface.
By the time the car pulled up to the penthouse, his hands were balled into fists. He shoved the door open and stepped out, his movements sharp with determination. He barely acknowledged the security staff as he stormed inside, heading straight for Dae’s room.
The door was slightly open, and when he stepped inside, he found Dae face down in his bed, completely still. His hair was a mess, the blankets half-kicked off, and the weight of last night’s emotions seemed to hang heavy in the air.
Min-ho didn’t hesitate. He strode over and grabbed Dae’s shoulder, shaking him roughly.
“Wake up.”
Dae jolted upright, his eyes wide with alarm. It took a second for him to register what was happening, but when he saw Min-ho standing over him, face set in fury, his expression immediately shifted to guilt.
Min-ho didn’t move. His entire body was tense, his anger was simmering beneath the surface, and he could feel the heat rising to his face. Every muscle in his body screamed to let it out.
“Min-ho…” Dae’s voice was still hoarse from sleep, his posture slouched, defeated, like he already knew what was coming.
Min-ho stared at him, eyes cold. He needed to hear the truth, to understand if Dae actually regretted his actions or if it was just a hollow apology.
“Talk. Now.” Min-ho demanded, his voice sharp and unyielding.
Dae hesitated, breathing deeply, obviously unprepared for this. But he knew, deep down, that if he didn’t say something—anything—it would only make everything worse.
“I’m just…” Dae trailed off, his voice cracking as tears welled up in his eyes. He buried his face in his hands for a moment, then looked up at Min-ho, eyes filled with regret. “I’m so sorry, Min-ho. I didn’t mean to hurt you or Kitty. I don’t know what came over me.” He wiped his eyes quickly, his voice filled with pain. “I just… I wish you guys would’ve told me.”
Min-ho’s chest tightened, and before he could stop himself, his hands shot out again. He grabbed Dae’s shoulders, shaking him hard.
“Are you serious right now?” Min-ho’s voice was cold, fury seeping into every word. “Do you even realize what you said to her? How could you say those things? After everything Kitty has done for you?”
Dae didn’t fight back. He just sat there, his grip on Min-ho’s wrists tight but not in resistance. His eyes were wide, his breathing ragged, but he stayed silent, taking the blow.
Min-ho’s grip tightened. His entire body was trembling with frustration and helplessness, his voice dropping into a more dangerous tone.
“I know we kept our relationship a secret. I get that you’re upset. But what the hell is your excuse for what you said to her?” His voice began to rise in anger again. “She passed out, Dae! While you were screaming at her, calling her awful, making her feel like the worst person on earth. That was your fault! Do you know how badly you hurt her?”
The words hung in the air, a heavy silence following them. Dae swallowed hard, his jaw clenched, but he didn’t speak. His eyes were locked on Min-ho, brimming with guilt, but the weight of what had happened was sinking in.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Min-ho let go. He exhaled sharply, running a hand through his hair, trying to steady himself. His body was still rigid with anger, but his voice came out more controlled now.
Dae, however, wasn’t done. A single tear slipped down his cheek as he spoke again, his voice quieter now but filled with deep remorse.
“I’ll never forgive myself for what I said to her. I don’t even know where I’d be without Kitty. She’s kept me grounded, kept me going. I owe her everything, and I…” Dae’s voice faltered. “I just… I snapped. I don’t have an explanation, but I understand why you didn’t tell me now. I do.”
Min-ho seethed, struggling to hold back the urge to lash out again. His glare was sharp, burning into Dae as he tried to figure out if the apology was sincere. If Dae truly understood the magnitude of what he’d done.
“I’m so sorry, Min-ho. I swear I’ll never hurt her again. I’ll never hurt you again. I’ll be better. I’ll do whatever I can to make things right,” Dae begged, his voice filled with sincerity and desperation.
Min-ho’s fists clenched and unclenched, his frustration threatening to overwhelm him. But somewhere deep inside, he knew that Dae wasn’t lying.
“I accept your apology,” he said, his tone firm and still carrying a trace of tension. “But you need to get over yourself. You have a concert to perform tonight. So do it. Stop wallowing in this guilt and start moving forward.”
Dae gave a small, almost imperceptible nod. His hands fidgeted in his lap, his face unreadable, but he didn’t argue.
Min-ho didn’t say anything else. He turned sharply and walked out of the room, his mind still buzzing, his heart heavy with everything that had been said.
As soon as he stepped outside, he let out a long, shaky breath, rubbing his hand down his face. The anger was still simmering beneath the surface, but there was something else now—something deeper.
Dae had been his best friend for years. He always had been.
But Min-ho would never, ever allow anyone—not even Dae—to hurt Kitty like that again.
---
Min-ho slid the key card into the hotel door, the smell of acetone and nail polish immediately hitting him. Inside, he found Kitty, Eunice, and Eunji sprawled on the bed, face masks on and chatting animatedly as they painted each other’s nails while watching a reality TV show.
“Min-ho!” Kitty’s face lit up as she bounded off the bed to greet him. “Your face isn’t beaten up, so I’m guessing it went well?”
Min-ho chuckled, a small smile tugging at his lips as he wrapped his arms around her for a quick hug. “That’s brave of you to assume I’d let Dae get a punch in.”
Kitty laughed softly as she looked up at him. “What happened?”
“I heard him out,” Min-ho replied, his voice steadier now. “He apologized, and I accepted it.” He turned toward Eunice with a slight nod. “I also told him to perform tonight. He’s got to start moving forward.”
Eunice grinned, happy to hear the news. She peeled off her face mask and tossed it in the trash bin. “Thank you, Min-ho!” she said, hugging him in her usual bubbly way. Min-ho stumbled back a little, clearly not used to her enthusiasm.
“No problem,” he said with a small, amused grin. “But you should probably go get Dae up. He’s got a concert to get to.”
Eunice immediately rushed over to Eunji. “Come on, let’s go—time to drag the boys out of bed!”
Eunji laughed, giving Kitty a quick hug. “Call me if you need anything, girly.”
Kitty nodded, smiling brightly as she watched the girls leave. The door clicked shut behind them, leaving her alone with Min-ho. The quiet that followed felt strangely comforting, like they had entered their own little world.
Kitty peeled off her face mask, laughing as she caught Min-ho’s gaze. “Sorry about that! I probably look like a snowman.”
Min-ho chuckled softly, his eyes twinkling with affection. He stepped closer, the space between them closing in an instant. His arms wrapped around her waist, pulling her in with a natural ease that made her heart flutter. “A cute snowman,” he teased, his lips curving into a playful grin.
Kitty couldn’t help the warmth spreading through her chest. There was something about being in Min-ho’s arms that made the world feel a little brighter, a little easier to handle. She felt safe, cherished, as if she could breathe and just be herself.
She cupped his face, her fingers tracing the sharp lines of his jaw as she gazed into his eyes. She leaned in, pressing her lips to his in a soft, gentle kiss. It was sweet, but it left her craving more, the taste of him lingering on her lips as she slowly pulled back.
But Min-ho wasn’t ready to let go. His hands tightened around her waist, keeping her close as his eyes darkened with a playful intensity. “Don’t think you’re getting away that easy, Covey,” he murmured, his voice low and teasing.
Before she could respond, he pulled her back in, his lips finding hers again. This time, the kiss was deeper, more urgent, like they had both been holding back and now couldn’t stop themselves. His right hand moved to cup her jaw, fingers gently tracing the line of her neck, while his other hand slid lower, gripping her waist as if he were afraid she might disappear if he let go.
Kitty’s breath caught in her throat as she responded, her hands threading through his hair, tugging him closer. They kissed like it was the only thing that mattered, both of them hungry for the connection, for the reassurance that this was real. Min-ho’s lips were soft yet insistent, moving in perfect rhythm with hers, sending waves of warmth rushing through her. Kitty felt a flutter in her chest, a growing sense of certainty that, in that moment, they were exactly where they were supposed to be.
When they finally broke apart, both of them were breathless. Min-ho’s hands still held her close, his thumb lightly brushing the skin of her back, sending tingles through her.
“Can’t seem to get enough of you, Covey,” he whispered, his voice thick with emotion, his breath warm against her skin.
“I can tell.” Kitty chuckled, her smile radiating up at him as she met his gaze. The softness in his eyes made her heart skip a beat.
Min-ho pulled Kitty into a tight hug, his chin resting gently on the top of her head. She melted into the embrace, her hands wrapping around his back as she sighed contentedly. The weight of the day seemed to disappear with him holding her close, and for a moment, she didn’t want to think about anything else. “How about we don’t go to the concert tonight?” he murmured into her hair. “It’s about time I take you on a proper date.”
Kitty pulled back slightly, her eyes lighting up at the suggestion. “Okay! Where will we go?” she asked, feeling a sense of excitement bubble up inside her. The idea of spending time with Min-ho, just the two of them, made her feel giddy.
“It’s a surprise.” Min-ho said, a playful glint in his eyes.
Kitty raised an eyebrow, amused and intrigued. “Impress me,” she teased, her voice light.
Min-ho grinned. “Oh you know I will.”
Notes:
Heyyyyy pooks! I love this chapter so much, I wanted to write a fight scene between Min-ho and Dae but it definitely doesn’t fit their characters, but I love how it turned out. Please leave your support, I love reading comments!
Chapter 16: Impress Me
Chapter Text
Kitty and Min-ho sat together in the back of the car. Kitty rested her head on his shoulder, and Min-ho gently rubbed the back of her hand.
For the first time in a while, Kitty felt at peace. The situation with Dae wasn’t fully resolved, but she wasn’t stressed. She wasn’t worried. She felt safe, and most of that calmness came from the person sitting next to her.
Kitty lifted her head from Min-ho’s shoulder, meeting his gaze. “I don’t want to go back to Portland… I’m okay now. I want to be with you. I want us to have a summer of adventure.”
Min-ho smiled softly, lifting his hand to brush a stray lock of hair from her face. “Okay, pretty girl. We’ll stay.” Kitty smiled back, leaning into his touch. “One good thing about all this is that we don’t have to be a secret anymore.”
Min-ho chuckled. “I don’t think I could’ve kept it a secret much longer.”
Kitty grinned. “Well, you sure made it difficult sometimes.”
The car pulled up in front of their hotel. Min-ho smirked. “Now don’t take too long, Covey. We’ve got reservations.”
Kitty playfully hit him on the arm. “You take longer than me to get ready, don’t even lie.”
Min-ho laughed as he got out of the car and offered his hand to help her out.
They made their way to their original suite, where all of their clothes were. Min-ho stopped at the door, blocking her way. “There’s a little surprise inside for you.”
“A surprise?” Kitty’s eyebrows furrowed in confusion.
Min-ho opened the door, letting her walk in. Her eyes immediately landed on the burgundy dress laid out on the bed. She recognized it instantly— it was from their first night in Tokyo. She’d fallen in love with it while shopping at the fancy department store. It was more extravagant than anything she’d ever owned, and even though she had adored it, she’d convinced herself there was no reason to get it.
“Min-ho! When did you get this?” Kitty exclaimed, rushing over to the dress and running her fingers over the luxurious fabric.
Min-ho grinned. “I had my assistant buy it right after we left the store. I saw how much you loved it.”
Kitty’s eyes widened, and without thinking, she jumped into his arms, hugging him tightly. “Oh my gosh, Min-ho.”
Min-ho pulled back slightly, a satisfied smile on his lips as he saw Kitty’s excitement over the dress. “There’s actually… one more thing,” he said, reaching into his pocket.
Kitty’s eyes widened as he pulled out a small blue velvet box.
“Min-ho,” she started, already knowing whatever was inside was going to be too much.
“Just open it, Covey,” he said with a smirk, pressing the box into her hands.
Kitty hesitated for a second before flipping it open. Inside, nestled in soft satin, was a delicate diamond necklace with matching earrings—simple yet breathtakingly elegant. The diamonds caught the light, sparkling just like the look in Min-ho’s eyes as he watched her reaction.
Kitty’s jaw dropped. “Min-ho!” she gasped. “This is—this is insane.” She looked up at him, completely overwhelmed but also beaming, unable to stop the happiness from taking over. “You really didn’t have to do this.”
Min-ho tilted his head, amused. “You always say that, and I always ignore you.”
She shook her head, still staring at the jewelry. “But it’s too much. I like you just as you are, I don’t need all of the fancy gifts.”
“It’s not too much,” he countered easily. “You deserve nice things, Covey.”
She opened her mouth to argue, but Min-ho cut her off, gently lifting her chin so she’d meet his gaze. “I want to do this for you. Let me.”
Kitty let out a breath, giving up the fight. “You’re impossible,” she muttered, but her face still radiated happiness.
Min-ho grinned, pleased with himself. “I prefer ‘thoughtful and romantic.’ Now, go get ready. I want to be impressed.”
Kitty laughed, clutching the box to her chest. “Oh, you will be.”
---
After spending time carefully getting ready, Kitty smoothed down the burgundy fabric of her dress and took a deep breath. Her hair was curled and pinned back elegantly, with soft pieces framing her face. Her makeup was more polished than usual, enhancing her features in a way that made her feel confident. The diamond necklace and earrings Min-ho had gifted her added the perfect final touch.
She stepped out into the living room, her heart beating a little faster as she spotted Min-ho standing there, waiting for her.
He was dressed in a crisp white tuxedo, a stark contrast against his dark hair, making him look effortlessly refined. In his hands, he held a bouquet of fresh red and white roses. But what made Kitty’s breath catch wasn’t just how stunning he looked—it was the way he was looking at her.
Min-ho’s jaw slackened slightly as his eyes traveled over her. He blinked, as if processing the sight of her, before a slow, almost dazed smile took over his face. “Wow,” he breathed.
Kitty felt warmth rise to her cheeks. “Is that a good ‘wow’?” she teased, stepping toward him.
Min-ho let out a short laugh, shaking his head in disbelief. “Covey, you look… beyond wow.” He took another step closer, lowering his voice. “You’re breathtaking.”
Kitty smiled, and eyed him up and down. “You clean up pretty well yourself,” she said, reaching out to straighten the lapel of his tux. “I think you’re trying to outshine me.”
Min-ho smirked. “Impossible.”
She giggled, then eyed the bouquet in his hands. “Are those for me?”
“Who else?” He handed them to her, watching as she brought the flowers to her nose with a delighted smile.
She looked up at him, her eyes shining. “You really didn’t have to do all this.”
Min-ho tucked a loose curl behind her ear, his fingers grazing her skin. “I wanted to,” he said softly. “You deserve to feel special.”
Kitty’s heart swelled, and for a moment, she just stood there, taking him in—the tux, the flowers, the way he was looking at her like nothing else in the world mattered.
She let out a breath, her smile soft. “Well, mission accomplished.”
Min-ho grinned, offering his arm. “Shall we?”
Min-ho led Kitty through the dimly lit hallway of their hotel, his hand warm around hers. He hadn't told her much about where they were going, only that she should dress up and trust him. And, well, she did trust him—but that didn’t mean she wasn’t dying of curiosity.
“Are you sure I’m dressed right for this?” Kitty asked, adjusting the skirt of her burgundy dress as they stepped into the elevator. The silky fabric brushed against her legs, the deep color complementing the soft curls Min-ho had watched her pin back earlier.
Min-ho glanced down at her, his expression unreadable—but the way his eyes softened told her everything. “You look perfect.”
Kitty noticed the button selected on the elevator panel and frowned. “Min-ho, you selected the top floor. Aren’t we going to the lobby?”
Min-ho didn’t respond. He just smirked.
Kitty narrowed her eyes at him. “You are so suspicious.”
The elevator let out a soft chime as the doors slid open, revealing a rooftop bathed in golden light. The sight made Kitty’s breath catch in her throat.
A private table sat in the center of the rooftop, surrounded by lanterns that cast a warm glow over the space. Delicate fairy lights wove through the trellises, their soft illumination mingling with the flickering candles adorning the table. A gentle breeze carried the scent of fresh jasmine, and beyond the railing, the Taipei skyline stretched in every direction, illuminated by thousands of shimmering lights.
Kitty’s eyes went wide, her gaze darting between the breathtaking scene and Min-ho, who stood beside her, looking entirely too smug.
“Min-ho…” she breathed.
He slipped his hands into his pockets, tilting his head as he admired her reaction. “Surprised?”
She shook her head in disbelief, letting out a breathy laugh. “Are you kidding? This is—this is like something out of a movie.”
Min-ho stepped forward and pulled out her chair, his fingers grazing over her shoulders as she sat down. “Only the best for you, Covey.”
She bit back a smile, watching as he took his own seat across from her. The warm glow of the lanterns cast golden highlights over his sharp features, and for a second, Kitty forgot about everything else.
A waiter appeared, pouring them each a glass of sparkling cider before presenting a beautifully arranged multi-course menu.
Kitty reached for the menu, but Min-ho simply plucked it from her grasp and handed it back to the waiter without looking at it.
Kitty blinked at him. “Wait—don’t we need to order?”
Min-ho leaned back in his chair, completely at ease. “I already took care of it.”
Kitty raised an eyebrow at him. “You ordered for me?”
“I know what you like,” he said with a shrug.
She narrowed her eyes at him. “If you ordered something weird like fermented tofu, we'd break up.”
Min-ho smirked. “We haven’t even publicly announced our relationship yet, and you’re already threatening me?”
Kitty huffed, crossing her arms. “Just tell me what you ordered.”
Min-ho shook his head. “Nope. It’s a surprise.”
Kitty groaned, but she couldn’t hide the way her lips curled up in a smile. She liked being taken care of like this.
A few moments later, their first course arrived—delicate soup dumplings, arranged beautifully in a bamboo steamer.
Min-ho picked up his chopsticks with practiced ease. “Okay, listen this time. You have to bite it just a little, let the steam out first—”
But Kitty, in her impatience, ignored his advice, taking a full bite. Her eyes immediately widened as the hot broth hit her tongue, and she let out a tiny squeak.
Min-ho laughed, shaking his head as he handed her a glass of water. “Should’ve listened to me, Covey.”
Kitty took the drink gratefully, glaring at him over the rim of her glass. “I hate that you’re always right.”
Min-ho smirked. “I love that I’m always right.”
Kitty nudged him under the table with her foot, making him chuckle.
As they continued their meal, the conversation flowed effortlessly between them, bouncing from their favorite memories in Tokyo to their excitement for the rest of the tour. Min-ho talked about growing up in Seoul, about his childhood dreams, while Kitty shared stories about Portland and her mom.
Halfway through dinner, Min-ho suddenly tilted his head, watching her closely.
“What?” Kitty asked, self-conscious.
Min-ho leaned forward, resting his hands on the table. “I like seeing you like this.”
Kitty raised an eyebrow. “Like what?”
Min-ho’s gaze softened. “Happy.”
Kitty felt her heartbeat stutter. She looked down at her plate, a small smile tugging at her lips. “I am happy.” She glanced up at him. “Because of you.”
Min-ho didn’t say anything for a moment—he just stared at her, as if memorizing every detail of the moment. Then, finally, he lifted his glass.
“To the best summer of our lives,” he said, his voice quieter this time, more meaningful.
Kitty clinked her glass against his, meeting his gaze. “To us.”
As the plates were cleared away, the city around them grew quieter, the night settling in. Min-ho suddenly stood, extending his hand toward her.
“Dance with me?”
Kitty raised an eyebrow. “There’s no dance floor.”
Min-ho shrugged. “We’ll make one.”
Kitty laughed, slipping her hand into his. “You’re so corny.”
Min-ho pulled her close, swaying gently under the fairy lights, his hands warm against the small of her back. The music from his phone hummed softly in the background, blending with the distant sounds of the city.
Kitty rested her head against his chest, listening to the steady beat of his heart. The moment was perfect—so perfect it almost didn’t feel real.
“This is the best date I’ve ever been on,” she murmured.
Min-ho pressed a kiss to her hair, his voice low. “It’s only the beginning.”
Notes:
MINHO IS AN ANGEL I LOVE HIMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM!!!!!!!!!!! Thank you guys for the support :)
Chapter 17: Resolution
Chapter Text
The hallway was quiet as Kitty and Min-ho made their way back to their room, their fingers intertwined. The night had been perfect—better than Kitty could have imagined. The soft glow of the hotel lights cast a golden hue over Min-ho’s face, making his features soft, his usual sharp gaze now full of warmth and happiness.
“You’re smiling,” Min-ho teased, nudging her shoulder lightly.
Kitty rolled her eyes, but her grin only grew wider. “So are you.”
Min-ho huffed playfully. “Of course I am. I just spent the perfect night with my perfect girl.”
The words sent a rush of warmth through Kitty, and she squeezed his hand, feeling a surge of affection so strong she didn’t know what to do with it.
When they reached their room, Min-ho held the door open for her, letting her step inside first. The air was cool, but Kitty barely noticed. She was still caught up in the warmth of Min-ho’s presence.
For a moment, they just stood there, looking at each other, soaking each other in.
Min-ho interrupted the silence first. “Well I guess we should get ready for bed. We have a flight to catch in the morning.”
Kitty’s stomach dipped. She didn’t want to think about the morning, about time slipping away from them. Not yet.
“Or…” She hesitated, suddenly feeling a little ridiculous, her flirting skills nowhere near as polished as Min-ho’s. “We could stay up a bit longer?”
Min-ho’s lips twitched into a small, knowing smirk. “Oh? And what exactly were you thinking we could do, Covey?”
Heat rose to her cheeks, but Min-ho had a way of making things feel easy. Simple. Safe. He made her feel like she didn’t have to second-guess herself.
So instead of answering, she stepped closer, wrapping her arms around his neck, tilting her head up with a playful smile. “Oh… maybe something like this?”
Whatever teasing remark Min-ho had planned never made it past his lips. The second their mouths met, the teasing was gone—replaced by something deeper, more urgent. His hands found the small of her back, pulling her against him, and the kiss quickly turned desperate, like they had both been waiting for this all night.
Kitty’s hands slid to his shoulders, her fingers grasping at the fabric of his suit jacket, pushing it off. Min-ho backed up just enough to let it slide down his arms, but the second it hit the floor, his lips were back on hers, claiming, insistent.
She didn’t know what had come over her, only that she wanted more. Needed more.
Kitty pressed forward, closing every inch of space between them, and Min-ho stumbled slightly, his grip on her tightening. He let out a breathless laugh, just as the back of his legs hit the bed—
And then suddenly, he was falling.
“Min-ho!”
Too late. He landed with a soft thud, sprawled on the mattress, blinking up at her in surprise.
Kitty’s hands flew to her mouth. “Oh my God, I’m sorry—”
Min-ho only smirked, completely unbothered. “Oh, don’t be,” he murmured, his hands already sliding up her waist, pulling her down with him. “I kind of like it.”
She barely had time to gasp before his lips were on hers again, deeper, hungrier.
Kitty’s fingers tangled in his hair, tugging lightly, and Min-ho let out a soft sigh against her mouth, the sound sending a thrilling shiver down her spine. His hands moved restlessly over her—her waist, her ribs, her back—like he couldn’t get enough, like he didn’t want to let go.
She didn’t want to let go either.
Kitty pressed closer, feeling the warmth of his body beneath her, against her. When he pulled away for just a second to catch his breath, she chased after his lips, not ready to stop.
Min-ho let out a low chuckle, his voice rough with amusement. “Eager, aren’t we?”
Kitty only huffed in response, pulling him back down.
The urgency began to slow, their kisses melting into something softer, deeper. The world outside their little bubble blurred away until there was nothing but this—his touch, his warmth, his presence. Their limbs tangled together naturally, neither of them wanting to move, to break the moment.
Min-ho sighed against her temple, his voice barely above a whisper. “I could do this forever.”
Kitty smiled, her fingers lazily tracing shapes over his chest, completely at peace. “Me too.”
And just like that, before they even realized it, sleep claimed them—wrapped up in each other, warm and content.
---
Kitty stirred, blinking sleepily as the morning light filtered through the hotel curtains, casting a soft glow over the room. She barely registered where she was at first—warm, comfortable, her cheek resting against something solid and familiar. A slow breath, steady and deep, rose and fell beneath her.
Min-ho.
She was draped over him, her body molded against his, her fingers lazily curled into his button down shirt. The realization made her smile against his chest. He was still in his tux. She was still in her dress. Neither of them had even bothered to change, too lost in each other to care.
A hand brushed against her lower back, light and reassuring. “Morning, sleepyhead.”
Kitty tilted her chin up to see Min-ho already awake, his dark eyes warm as he watched her. His hair was a little messy, his bowtie slightly undone, but he looked so effortlessly handsome.
“How long have you been staring at me?” she mumbled, her voice thick with sleep.
Min-ho smirked. “Long enough to know you drool a little.”
Kitty gasped, shoving at his chest, but he only laughed, tightening his arms around her so she couldn’t escape. “Liar,” she accused, burying her face back against him.
“I’d never lie to you Covey,” he teased, running his fingers up and down her spine. The motion sent a shiver through her, but it was more from the comfort than anything else.
For a moment, they just lay there, soaking in the warmth of each other, the memories of the night before replaying in their minds. The dinner, the lights twinkling around them, the dance they shared.
Kitty sighed happily. “Last night was perfect.”
Min-ho hummed in agreement. “Yeah. It really was.”
She smiled, fingers absentmindedly tracing the buttons on his shirt. “Can’t we just stay like this forever?”
Min-ho chuckled. “Tempting, but we have a flight to catch, Covey. We should probably get up.”
Kitty groaned dramatically, nuzzling deeper into his chest. “Nooo. I refuse. I live here now.”
Min-ho rolled his eyes, but the corners of his lips twitched. “Covey—”
“Nope.” She stretched out more, draping herself fully across him. “I’m one with the bed. You can’t make me leave.”
Min-ho laughed, his hands settling at her waist. “You’re ridiculous.”
“You like it,” she said smugly.
“I do,” he admitted without hesitation, and just like that, Kitty’s heart melted all over again.
But then, his expression shifted, something more serious settling in his gaze. “Kitty…”
She frowned at the sudden change in his tone. “What?”
Min-ho exhaled softly, his fingers tightening just slightly against her. “Are you ready to see Dae?”
The lighthearted warmth in her chest dimmed slightly. Kitty swallowed, her mind already racing ahead to the inevitable conversation with Dae. He deserved honesty. She knew that. But that didn’t make it any easier.
“I don’t know,” she admitted. “But I need to talk to him.”
Min-ho studied her for a moment, then cupped her cheek, his thumb brushing against her skin in the gentlest way possible. “You don’t have to do it alone, you know.”
Kitty met his gaze, searching for reassurance. She found it instantly in his eyes. “I’ll be with you the whole way,” he promised.
The tension in her shoulders eased slightly, and she nodded, letting out a slow breath. “Okay.”
Min-ho gave her a small smile, one that held more meaning than words ever could. Then, he tapped her lightly on the hip. “Alright, Covey. As much as I love having you on top of me, we really do need to get up.”
Kitty groaned again, but this time, she smiled. “Fine. But only because you asked nicely.”
---
The airport was quieter than expected, the usual rush of travelers replaced with the stillness of a private terminal. Kitty walked alongside Min-ho, their hands brushing but not quite touching. He had been quiet since they left the hotel, tension radiating off him in subtle ways—his clenched jaw, the way his fingers curled into a fist at his side.
Kitty understood why. Seeing Dae again wasn’t going to be easy, and Min-ho wasn’t exactly thrilled about it.
They arrived at the jet, the last ones to board. The flight crew greeted them with polite nods, but Kitty barely registered them because the second she stepped inside, she saw him.
Dae.
He was already seated, his posture stiff, but the moment his eyes landed on Kitty, he shot up, his expression shifting into something unsure, nervous.
“Kitty,” he said quickly, his voice laced with hesitation. Then he glanced at Min-ho but barely acknowledged him before turning his attention back to her. “Do you… do you want to sit with me?”
Kitty felt Min-ho stiffen beside her. He didn’t say anything, but she didn’t need to look at him to know exactly what he was thinking.
She reached back, squeezing his hand briefly before giving him a reassuring nod. “It’s okay.”
Min-ho’s lips pressed into a thin line, but after a moment, he gave a slight nod back. Then, without a word, he stepped past them, taking a seat behind Dae.
Kitty slid into the seat next to Dae, her heart pounding. The awkwardness sat heavy between them for a moment before Dae finally spoke.
“I—” He exhaled, shaking his head as if searching for the right words. “I’m so sorry, Kitty. For everything.”
Kitty blinked, caught slightly off guard by how quickly he got to the point.
Dae continued, his voice quieter now. “I was angry, and I let that get in the way of how I should’ve handled things. I was hurt that you didn’t tell me about you and Min-ho. But that’s not an excuse for the way I acted.”
Kitty’s fingers twisted together in her lap. She had prepared for this conversation, but now that it was happening, the emotions hit harder than expected.
“I should’ve told you,” she admitted. “I didn’t want to hurt you, but keeping it a secret only made things worse.”
Dae let out a small laugh. “Yeah, well, I didn’t make it easy, did I?” He sighed. “The truth is… I think part of me always knew, but I didn’t want to accept it.”
Kitty’s throat tightened. “I never wanted to hurt you, Dae.”
“I know,” he said softly. “And I never wanted to be the kind of person who made you feel like you had to hide something from me.” He paused, rubbing the back of his neck. “I was a jerk. And I’m so sorry.”
Kitty studied him for a moment, searching for any lingering resentment, but all she found was sincerity.
She nodded slowly. “I forgive you.”
Dae let out a breath, like a weight had just lifted off his chest. “You and Min-ho… you’re happy, aren’t you?”
Kitty’s lips curved slightly. “Yeah. We are.”
Dae gave a small smile, though something beneath it was bittersweet. “That’s all I ever wanted for you.”
Kitty reached for his hand, giving it a light squeeze. “Thank you, Dae.”
Behind them, Min-ho remained silent, but Kitty could feel his presence, steady and strong.
Things weren’t perfect, but for the first time in a long time, they finally felt like they were on the right path.
Notes:
This might have been my favorite chapter yet, I loved writing it! They are headed to Thailand next, so more adventure on the way!!!!!! I have some long term plans for this fic but if you want to see anything specific, please let me know and I'll write it in!
Chapter 18: Lost in Thailand
Chapter Text
The low hum of the plane filled the cabin as Kitty shuffled a deck of uno cards, looking around the table at her friends. Dae, Min-ho, Eunice, Joon Ho, and Eunji sat with her, all leaning in with competitive anticipation.
“Alright,” Kitty said, dealing the first round. “No cheating. That means you, Min-ho.”
Min-ho scoffed, placing a hand over his chest in mock offense. “I would never.”
Joon Ho grinned. “That’s exactly what a cheater would say.”
Eunji rolled her eyes, adjusting her hoodie. “Can we just play?”
Kitty smiled to herself as the game kicked off, the usual banter filling the space between them. It felt good—easy, like they were just a group of friends traveling together without all the past tensions.
“I win!” Min-ho declared, slamming down his last yellow card.
Eunice groaned, throwing her cards onto the table with dramatic flair. “No way. That’s not fair!”
“I’m sorry I’m just that good,” Min-ho said with a smirk.
Eunji, however, wasn’t so convinced. “Wait—you didn’t say Uno before your last card. Did you?”
Joon Ho’s eyes lit up. “Oh my god, he didn’t! That means it doesn’t count!” With a triumphant grin, he slammed a yellow three on top of the pile. “So, technically—I win. Sorry, little bro.”
Min-ho let out an exaggerated sigh. “I was hoping you guys wouldn’t notice.”
Kitty laughed. “Well, I didn’t. You have Eunji to thank for her amazing memory.”
Eunji interrupted, shooting Kitty a grin. “I’m sure Kitty didn’t notice because she was too busy staring at you.”
“I mean, I am a sight to behold, aren’t I, Covey?” Min-ho turned his face towards Kitty, tilting his head down to meet her eyes.
Kitty playfully smacked his arm but her hand lingered a little too long. She wasn’t great at defending herself against Min-ho.
---
Kitty stepped off the plane and into the thick, humid air of Bangkok, fanning herself with her passport. “Okay, wow. No one warned me about the heat.”
Min-ho adjusted his sunglasses, looking entirely unfazed. “It’s called being prepared, Covey. Hydration, SPF, and breathable fabrics. Do you need a tutorial?”
Dae snorted. “Oh please, we all know you just like showing off your skincare routine.”
Min-ho smirked, “Well my skin is perfect isn’t it?” He adjusted the straps on Kitty’s backpack, pulling the water bottle out of the side pocket.
“Hydrate please.” He handed the bottle to Kitty who gave him a grateful smile, taking a sip.
The group piled into two sleek black SUVs waiting outside the airport, their bags swiftly loaded into the trunks. The moment Kitty slid into the backseat next to Min-ho, the cool blast of air conditioning hit her skin, and she let out a relieved sigh.
“Okay, I’m starting to get used to these cars, my dad’s takes an hour for the air conditioning to work.” she murmured, sinking into the seat.
Min-ho smirked. “Luxury travel is a necessity in this weather.”
She rolled her eyes but couldn’t argue. As the car pulled away from the airport, Bangkok’s vibrant cityscape came into view—gleaming skyscrapers, bustling markets, and the occasional golden temple peeking through the skyline.
After a short drive, they arrived at their penthouse suite in a high-rise overlooking the city. The moment the doors swung open, Eunice gasped.
“Are you kidding me?” She spun in a slow circle, taking in the massive floor-to-ceiling windows, plush modern furniture, and the shimmering rooftop pool just beyond the balcony.
Kitty whistled. “Is every hotel we stay at going to be this fancy?”
They dragged their luggage inside, and Dae wandered toward the hallway with a curious look. “Okay, so there are four bedrooms,” he announced. “That works out, right?”
Min-ho nodded, setting down his duffel. “Yeah. My dad in one, Eunji and Joon Ho in another, and—”
“I’ll room with Eunice,” Dae cut in, glancing at her with a small smile.
Eunice’s eyes widened in surprise before she practically bounced on her heels. “Wait, really?”
Dae chuckled. “Yeah. We’re together, so it makes sense.”
A silence fell over the room while everyone’s eyes fell upon Min-ho and Kitty.
They had been sharing a room for most of the tour. It had never been a big deal. But now? Now everyone knew they were together, and that changed everything.
Min-ho, usually quick with a cocky remark, hesitated for once. He glanced at Kitty before shrugging, playing it cool. “I guess we are roommates again, Covey.”
Kitty nodded, suddenly hyper-aware of every set of eyes on them. “Sounds good.”
Joon Ho, never one to miss a moment, grinned. “You two be responsible together.” He wiggled his eyebrows dramatically.
Eunji snorted. “Joon Ho, stop.”
Min-ho rolled his eyes but smirked. “Relax, mom, I’ll be a perfect gentleman.”
Kitty huffed, crossing her arms. “No, you always steal the covers.”
“I do not,” Min-ho shot back, but there was a teasing glint in his eye.
Eunice, still giddy about her own room situation, clapped her hands. “Okay, great! Let’s unpack and then go explore!”
---
After settling into their rooms, the group set out to explore the city, leaving Joon Ho and Eunji behind at the penthouse. The sun hung low in the sky, casting a golden glow over the streets as they made their way to one of Bangkok’s bustling night markets.
Kitty’s eyes widened as they stepped into the lively scene—rows of colorful stalls stretched as far as she could see, the air buzzing with the chatter of vendors and the rhythmic sizzle of street food. Lanterns swung above them, lighting up stacks of handmade trinkets, vibrant fabrics, and endless racks of clothes.
“This place is incredible,” Kitty breathed, spinning around to take it all in.
Eunice clapped her hands. “Shopping time! No one stop me.”
Min-ho groaned. “Oh god, it’s happening.”
Kitty grinned, grabbing his hand. “Come on, don’t be so dramatic.”
They wove through the crowded stalls, stopping at one that sold delicate silver rings. Kitty turned one over between her fingers, admiring the tiny moonstone set in the middle.
“You like it?” Min-ho asked, watching her.
She shrugged. “It’s cute.”
Before she could say anything else, Min-ho handed the vendor a bill.
“Min-ho!” Kitty protested.
He smirked, slipping the ring onto her finger himself. “Relax, Covey. It suits you.”
Eunice cooed. “Awww, look at you two.”
Kitty felt her face heat up, but she didn’t take the ring off.
Dae, who had been watching quietly, let out a small chuckle. “Well, at least he has good taste.”
Kitty blinked at him, surprised. It wasn’t a joke or a dig—it almost sounded like approval. Maybe he really was warming up to the idea of her and Min-ho.
They moved to another stall where Eunice held up a ridiculously sequined bucket hat. “Dae, wear this.”
Dae frowned. “Absolutely not.”
Kitty grabbed one and plopped it onto Min-ho’s head before he could stop her.
He sighed dramatically. “I’m too pretty for this.”
Kitty giggled. “No, no, I think it’s your look.”
Dae snapped a picture before Min-ho could take it off, earning a glare. “You will regret that,” Min-ho warned.
They spent the next hour browsing—Kitty found an embroidered tote bag, Eunice bought a stack of beaded bracelets, and Dae and Min-ho ended up with matching T-Shirts.
With their hands full of shopping bags and bellies full of mango sticky rice, they finally started heading back. Min-ho reached for Kitty’s hand again, lacing their fingers together without hesitation.
Dae glanced down at their hands but didn’t say anything. He just gave a small nod, like he was adjusting to the sight.
Kitty squeezed Min-ho’s hand a little tighter, smiling to herself. Maybe things were finally falling into place.
---
After an evening of shopping and eating their way through the market, the group finally made it back to the penthouse, their arms full of bags.
Eunice flopped onto the couch dramatically. “I am exhausted.”
Dae chuckled as he set their shopping bags down. “You did this to yourself.”
Kitty, on the other hand, perked up at the sight of the rooftop pool, its clear water shimmering under the glow of the city lights. “Swimming,” she announced, turning to Min-ho with excitement. “Let’s go swimming.”
Min-ho raised a brow. “Now?”
Eunice sat up. “Ooh, yes! A late-night swim sounds perfect.”
Joon Ho and Eunji emerged from their room just in time to hear that. Joon Ho stretched with a yawn. “Wait, wait—are we all swimming? No one was gonna invite us?”
“Well, get your swimsuits,” Kitty said with a grin. “We’re all going in.”
Within minutes, everyone had changed and gathered by the pool, the warm night air wrapping around them. The city skyline stretched beyond the glass barrier, and soft string lights cast a golden glow over the water.
Eunice and Dae were already splashing each other in the shallow end, their laughter echoing through the space. Joon Ho climbed onto a float and immediately stretched out like he was in a five-star resort. “I love this for me.”
Eunji rolled her eyes before wading into the pool. “You are literally doing nothing.”
“Exactly.”
Min-ho, of course, was taking his time, gripping on to the railing as he lowered himself into the water, careful to not get his hair wet. Kitty, however, had other plans.
She grinned mischievously and, before he could react, sent a playful splash his way.
Min-ho blinked, droplets clinging to his lashes. “Oh, Covey.”
Kitty squealed, immediately swimming backward, but Min-ho was faster. He grabbed her by the waist, pulling her close in one swift motion.
“You think you can start a war and not face the consequences?” he teased, his voice low.
Kitty’s hands landed on his shoulders, her heart doing that stupid fluttery thing it always did when he was this close. “I didn’t think that far ahead.”
Min-ho smirked. “Classic.”
But instead of splashing her back, he just held her there, his hands firm around her waist. The world around them seemed to blur—Dae and Eunice’s playful shouts, Joon Ho floating lazily nearby, the sound of water lapping against the edges of the pool, the distant hum of the city.
All she could focus on was him. The way his dark hair was slicked back from the water, how his usually sharp eyes had softened under the glow of the lights, how his hands felt steady against her skin.
“You’re staring,” he murmured.
Kitty huffed, trying to play it cool. “I am not.”
Min-ho tilted his head, his smirk deepening. “Then why do you look so flustered?”
She pushed at his chest lightly, but he didn’t let her go. Instead, his grip tightened, pulling her even closer.
“I like this,” he admitted, his voice softer now. “Being here with you.”
Kitty swallowed, her fingers absentmindedly tracing circles on his shoulders. “Yeah?”
Min-ho nodded, his eyes flickering to her lips for just a second before meeting her gaze again. “Yeah.”
And then-slowly-he leaned in.
Kitty met him halfway.
The kiss was soft, slow, and warm, like the way the summer air wrapped around them. His lips moved against hers like he was memorizing the moment, like he had all the time in the world.
From the other end of the pool, Eunice’s voice rang out. “OH MY GOD, THEY’RE KISSING.”
Kitty pulled back, her face burning, but Min-ho just sighed, resting his forehead against hers. “They ruin everything,” he mumbled.
Dae groaned. “Eunice, why do you have to announce things?”
Joon Ho snorted. “Little bro is getting some action.”
Eunice giggled, splashing water in Dae’s direction. “It is a moment! Look at them!”
Kitty buried her face in Min-ho’s shoulder, and he just wrapped his arms around her tighter, pressing a kiss to the top of her head.
Joon Ho grinned. “I don’t know if I trust the two of them to have their own room again.”
Min-ho sighed dramatically. “This group is unbearable.”
Kitty just laughed, all the tension was gone. She was happy. She was surrounded by her best friends, and she was in the arms of her boyfriend, where everything felt right—like this was exactly where she was meant to be.
Notes:
AHHHH! All the fluff is back and here to stay!!!!!!!
Chapter 19: Front Row
Chapter Text
Backstage at the Thailand venue was pure chaos. Crew members ran around with headsets, last minute lighting checks flashed across the stage, and the buzz of anticipation filled the air.
Kitty was still trying to get used to it.
She stood near the dressing rooms with Min-ho, watching as Eunice adjusted the fit of her in-ear monitors, while Dae paced back and forth, muttering lyrics under his breath. Joon Ho, ever relaxed, lounged in a chair, scrolling through his phone like he wasn’t about to perform in front of thousands of people.
Eunice turned to Kitty. “How do I look?”
“Like a star.” Kitty said instantly.
Eunice smirked. “Good answer.”
Dae on the other hand, looked like he might pass out. “I think I’m forgetting the words,” he muttered, running a hand through his hair.
Min-ho raised an eyebrow. “Didn’t you write the song?”
Dae shot him a glare. “I’ve never performed it before!”
Kitty stepped forward, placing a reassuring hand on his arm. “You’ve opened for the last two concerts, this is no different, just a new song.”
Dae exhaled slowly, nodding. “Yeah. Yeah, you’re right.” He hesitated, “I still might throw up.”
Eunice rolled her eyes. “Just don’t do it on stage.”
Min-ho leaned in towards Kitty’s ear and whispered, “Ten bucks says he messes up.”
Kitty elbowed him. “Be nice.”
“I am being nice, I’m not betting twenty.”
A staff member suddenly called out, “Five minutes to showtime!”
Eunice turned to Dae, grabbing his hand. “Come on superstar. Let’s go make history.”
Dae took a deep breath, straightened his shoulders, and followed her towards the stage entrance.
Joon Ho finally put his phone down and stretched. “Man, I love Thailand. The energy here is insane.” He looked at Min-ho and Kitty. “You two are sitting in the crowd tonight, right?”
Min-ho groaned dramatically. “Unfortunately.”
Joon Ho laughed. “You’ll survive.”
Kitty smiled and linked her arm with Min-ho’s. “I think it’ll be fun!”
Min-ho gave her a look like she’d suggested eating a bug. “We have different definitions of fun.”
She pulled his arm toward the exit. “Come on commoner, time to experience life with the rest of us.”
---
Min-ho sank into his seat like he was being punished. “I still can’t believe there’s no VIP section.”
“You say that like you’ve never sat in a regular seat before.”
“I haven’t.” Min-ho deadpanned.
Kitty rolled her eyes, “Well welcome to the real world babe.”
Min-ho froze.
Kitty barely noticed at first, too busy adjusting her concert wristband, but when he didn’t immediately throw out a sarcastic response, she glanced up. He was staring at her, eyes slightly wide, lips parted like his brain had momentarily short-circuited.
“What?” she asked.
Min-ho blinked. “Nothing.” He cleared his throat and looked away, suddenly very interested in the stage setup. “Just—never mind.”
It clicked.
Kitty grinned. “Are you flustered because I called you babe?”
“No.”
“You totally are.”
“I am not.”
“You so are.”
Min-ho groaned. “Can you stop?”
Kitty laughed, nudging his knee with hers. “Not a chance, babe.”
Before Min-ho could fire back, the lights dimmed, and a wave of cheers erupted as Eunice and Dae stepped onto the stage. The teasing could wait—right now, they had friends to support.
Kitty shot up from her seat, clapping and cheering. Next to her, Min-ho stood as well, offering a few slow claps before catching Kitty’s expectant look and giving in with a reluctant cheer of his own.
On stage, Dae adjusted his mic, scanning the crowd with an almost nervous energy. Then, his gaze softened as he leaned into the microphone. “I’m going to play a new song tonight, it is really special to me,” he said, voice steady despite the emotion behind it. “I wrote it about someone who made me the person I am today. I miss her everyday, and I hope she would be proud of me now. I love you Mom.”
Kitty’s heart clenched.
The opening notes were slow and beautiful, and as Dae’s voice filled the stadium, Kitty felt herself getting lost in it. The lyrics were heartfelt—about childhood memories, about sacrifices made, about unconditional love.
She swallowed hard.
It had been years since she lost her mom, but moments like these always brought a wave of emotion crashing over her. She thought about the lullabies her mom used to sing, the way she’d brush Kitty’s hair at night, the warmth of her hugs.
Min-ho must have noticed, because without a word, his fingers found hers, giving them a small squeeze.
Kitty glanced at him.
He didn’t say anything, just held her hand like it was the most natural thing in the world.
A warmth spread through her chest. She squeezed back.
As the song ended, the crowd erupted into cheers, and Kitty wiped at her eyes quickly, hoping Min-ho wouldn’t notice. If he did, he didn’t say anything.
The energy of the venue shifted. The beat of the next song was fast, fun, and completely different from the one before.
Kitty grinned. “Oh, this is my thing!.”
She immediately started cheering, hands up in the air, jumping to the beat. Min-ho, on the other hand, barely moved.
“Seriously?” she asked over the music. “Nothing?”
Min-ho crossed his arms. “Not really my vibe.”
Kitty gasped dramatically. “You are such a buzzkill.”
Min-ho smirked. “I prefer refined music.”
Kitty rolled her eyes. “Oh, I’m sorry, Mr. Fancy. Is the fun music too much for you?”
“I just have standards.”
Kitty narrowed her eyes. Then, with zero hesitation, she grabbed his hands and pulled him toward her. “Nope. You’re dancing.”
Min-ho resisted at first, shaking his head, but Kitty was persistent. She jumped up and down wild, doing the most ridiculous dance she could manage just to get a reaction.
Min-ho sighed heavily, like he was being forced to suffer through some great inconvenience. “You’re embarrassing.”
Kitty just grinned. “That’s the point.”
Finally, finally, Min-ho let out a small laugh. Then, without warning, he grabbed her waist and effortlessly lifted her onto his back.
Kitty squealed. “Min-ho!”
“You want to be wild?” he called over the music. “Let’s be wild.”
He held onto her legs as she clung to his shoulders, laughing as he finally joined in, cheering loudly along with her.
It was ridiculous. It was chaotic.
And it was perfect.
“I knew you couldn’t resist a little fun.” Kitty whispered in his ear.
Min-ho shook his head but smiled, carrying her as they both screamed along with the rest of the crowd.
Neither of them noticed the phone cameras pointed in their direction.
Not yet, anyway.
Notes:
Yayyyy! More concert fun!
You guys are all caught up with Wattpad now and I will be posting daily updates starting tomorrow!!! Ideas or suggestions, plus support is all welcome in the comments!
Chapter 20: Social Scandal
Chapter Text
The first thing Kitty felt was warmth.
Min-ho’s arm was draped over her waist, his body curved around hers, their legs loosely tangled beneath the covers. His breathing was slow and steady against the back of her neck, the soft rise and fall of his chest in sync with hers. The room was still, filled only with the distant hum of the air conditioning.
Kitty blinked sleepily, her mind still foggy with the remnants of sleep. It took her a moment to remember where she was, and when she did, a lazy smile crept onto her lips.
She tilted her head slightly, trying to look at his face. Min-ho, normally so polished, so effortlessly put together, was an absolute mess in the mornings. His perfectly styled hair stuck up in different directions, his lashes fluttering slightly as he stirred in his sleep. His lips were parted just a little, and he looked so soft. So different from the sharp, confident Min-ho that everyone else saw.
Kitty couldn't help herself.
Gently, she reached up and brushed a stray lock of hair from his forehead.
Min-ho grumbled something incoherent, shifting closer, his grip around her waist tightening slightly as if he didn’t want her to move away. Kitty bit back a laugh.
She took the opportunity to study his face a little longer, feeling an unexpected rush of affection swell in her chest. Who would have thought that this would become their new normal? Waking up beside each other, warm and comfortable, no pretense, no distance.
Kitty exhaled softly, enjoying the moment.
Then—
Her phone buzzed loudly on the nightstand.
Min-ho groaned, burying his face into the crook of her neck. “No. Too early.”
Kitty let out a breathy laugh. “It’s probably important.”
“No,” he mumbled, voice thick with sleep. “Ignore it.”
“I can’t just ignore-”
Min-ho tightened his hold, pulling her closer. “You can. Watch.”
Kitty rolled her eyes, though her heart did a little flip. “Min-ho.”
“Mmm.”
Her phone buzzed again.
With a sigh, she finally managed to untangle herself enough to grab it. “Let’s see who’s ruining our peaceful morning.”
Min-ho didn’t move, still half-asleep. “If it’s Q, hang up.”
Kitty squinted at the screen. A text from Margot.
Margot: Um… Kit. You might want to see this.
Attached was a screenshot of a social media post. Kitty tapped it open, still groggy, then froze.
It was a picture from last night’s concert. Not just any picture.
Min-ho sitting behind her, his arms wrapped around her shoulders, his face close to hers, whispering something in her ear. The way their heads tilted toward each other, the way Min-ho’s hand rested protectively on her arm-it looked intimate. It looked exactly like what it was.
A couple.
The caption?
"Min-ho and Kitty…? 👀👀"
Kitty sat up so fast she nearly gave herself whiplash. “Oh shit.”
Min-ho groaned, shifting under the covers. “Huh?” His voice was thick with sleep.
She shoved her phone toward him. “Look.”
He blinked blearily at the screen, his brain taking an extra second to process. Then, just like her, he shot upright. “Oh shit.”
Before they could even process it, their door slammed open.
Joon Ho leaned against the doorframe, grinning like a madman. “HAHAHAHA! My little brother just got relationship exposed!”
Min-ho let out the most miserable groan. “Joon Ho, get out.”
“Absolutely not.”
Eunji appeared behind him, smirking. “You guys are trending, by the way.”
Kitty’s stomach dropped. “We’re WHAT?!”
Joon Ho waved his phone. “You’re all over KISS gossip accounts. The comments are hilarious—‘there’s no way they were just friends,’ ‘I knew it,’ ‘Min-ho bagged Kitty, we lost another one.’”
Min-ho’s mouth fell open. “We lost another one?! What does that even mean?!”
Eunji scrolled through her phone. “Ooooh, this one's my favorite: ‘Min-ho really said patience is a virtue, he’s been plotting for this.’”
Joon Ho lost it all over again. Kitty covered her face with her hands. “This is not happening.”
“Oh, it’s definitely happening,” Joon Ho said gleefully. “Now get up, lovebirds. Family meeting now.”
Min-ho groaned, throwing himself back onto the pillows. “I refuse to participate.”
Eunji rolled her eyes. “Too bad.”
---
A few minutes later, Kitty and Min-ho found themselves in the living room, still in their pajamas, surrounded by Joon Ho, Eunji, Dae, and Eunice, who had all clearly been dying for this conversation to happen.
Min-ho and Kitty, however, were still in complete damage control mode.
Kitty’s phone buzzed again. A call this time.
She groaned. “Oh God.”
Min-ho peered over her shoulder. “Who is it?”
“Q.”
Dae, looking way too entertained, waved his hand. “Oh, you have to answer that.”
Kitty sighed, accepting the call. The second she did, Q’s voice exploded through the speaker.
“OMG, YOU DIDN’T TELL ME YOU GUYS STARTED DATING!!!!!!”
Kitty winced. Min-ho let out a strangled noise.
Joon Ho and Eunji? Dying.
Dae just shook his head, grinning. “I’m just glad I found out before the entire world did.”
Kitty shot him a look before turning her attention back to Q. “Well… it was a secret. At first.”
Q gasped so loudly that even through the phone, it was deafening. “HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN DATING?!”
Kitty hesitated. “Uhh—”
“How did it happen? Who confessed first? Min-ho? Or did Kitty finally cave in?”
Min-ho groaned, dragging a pillow over his face. “I hate this.”
Q ignored him. “Wait, what about Dae? Dae, are you okay?! This is your ex.”
Dae, chewing on a piece of toast he had somehow acquired, gave the most nonchalant shrug in history. “I literally have a girlfriend.”
Q paused. “…Right. My bad.” Then, like he had simply rebooted, he continued, “WAIT, HAVE YOU KISSED? WHERE? WHEN? HOW MANY TIMES? I NEED DETAILS, KATHERINE SONG COV—”
Kitty hung up.
The room erupted.
Eunji was wheezing. Even Dae looked amused.
Min-ho turned to Kitty, his eyes wide with horror. “This is never going to end, is it?”
Kitty sighed, rubbing her temples. “Okay, let’s just take a deep breath. It’s not that big of a deal.”
“Not that big of a deal?! Kitty, we’re trending.”
Joon Ho waved his phone again. “Correction: You were trending. The internet already moved on to a different scandal. Some K-pop idol got caught holding hands in a parking lot.”
Kitty blinked. “That’s what knocked us off trending?”
Eunice shrugged. “People have short attention spans.”
Dae leaned back against the couch. “Honestly, I don’t see the problem. You guys were never really hiding it, so what’s the worst that can happen?”
Min-ho scoffed. “I don’t know. Maybe millions of fans and their crazy opinions.”
Joon Ho smirked. “Doubt it. Half the comments are people thirsting over you. My personal favorite is ‘Min-ho can whisper in my ear next.’”
Eunji snorted. “Some of them are actually kinda sweet. Like, ‘Aww, Kitty looks happy, good for her.’”
Kitty considered it. The truth was, she had expected to feel more panicked about this. But… she didn’t. Their friends didn’t care, the internet had already moved on, and, really, it wasn’t like they were some huge secret couple.
Min-ho must have been thinking the same thing, because he sighed, running a hand through his hair. “Fine. Whatever. Let the world know I’m taken.” Then, narrowing his eyes, he added, “By Kitty and no one else.”
Kitty elbowed him, laughing. “Oh no, what will all your admirers do?”
Joon Ho grinned. “Alright, now that the crisis is over, we should probably start packing. Flight’s tonight.”
Eunice groaned. “Ugh. I hate packing.”
Dae stood up and offered her his hand. “Then start now instead of waiting ‘til the last second.”
---
Back in their room, Min-ho flopped dramatically onto the bed. “I agree with Eunice, I hate packing.”
Kitty rolled her eyes, grabbing her suitcase. “You love packing. You pack like it’s an art form.”
Min-ho pointed a lazy finger at her. “That’s true. But it doesn’t mean I enjoy it.”
Before Kitty could reply, her laptop dinged with an incoming Skype call. She squinted at the screen.
Margot.
Shit.
She turned her computer around, hiding Min-ho behind the laptop.
“No matter what, don’t say a word.” Kitty warned, her voice serious.
“What? Who is it?” Min-ho asked her, confused.
Kitty didn’t bother to explain, she clicked accept.
The second Margot’s face popped up, she looked unimpressed. “Kitty. Explain.”
Kitty let out a nervous laugh. “Explain what?”
Margot gave her the most annoyed look. “Don’t play dumb. I found out from the internet that you have a boyfriend.”
Kitty winced. “Oh. That.”
Margot leaned closer to the screen. “You told nobody? Not even me? I had to find out from some random Twitter post?!”
“I was gonna tell you!” Kitty defended. “Just… later.”
Margot folded her arms. “How long have you two even been together?”
Kitty opened her mouth to answer, but before she could, another ding rang out, and suddenly, Lara Jean’s face appeared on the screen, looking absolutely giddy.
“Oh my God, oh my God, oh my God,” Lara Jean squealed. “Kitty, is it true?! Are you and Min-ho actually dating?!”
Kitty sighed. “This is turning into an interrogation.”
Margot raised an eyebrow. “That’s because it is an interrogation.”
Lara Jean, meanwhile, was nearly bouncing. “So?? What’s he like? How did this happen? Who confessed first? Did you—”
Min-ho, who was trying to contain his nerves, choked on his glass of water; his cough alerting Kitty’s sisters that she wasn’t alone.
Lara Jean gasped. “OMG IS HE WITH YOU?!”
Kitty blinked. “Uh—”
Margot’s eyes narrowed. “Wait. You’re in a bedroom together?”
Kitty groaned. “Margot, it’s a hotel room. We’re on tour.”
Margot’s unimpressed expression did not budge.
Lara Jean’s smile never left her face. “Peter told me that he could tell he liked you still, and I knew you only denied it because you liked him back.”
Min-ho raised an eyebrow from behind the camera, obviously liking that information.
Kitty shot him a glare, “Don’t let that go to your head.”
Min-ho raised his hands in mock surrender, “Never, Covey.”
Lara Jean clasped her hand over her mouth, “He calls her Covey- Margot!!!!”
Margot rolled her eyes, “Hey Kit, why don’t you tell your boyfriend to come introduce himself.”
Min-ho could feel the blood drain from his face, he quickly smoothed back his hair, still in his silk pajamas, and stepped into the frame, trying to act calm and respectful. He straightened his back and gave a polite smile, bowing slightly.
“Hello, Margot. Lara Jean. I’m Min-ho,” he said, his voice steady but with a hint of nervousness.
Lara Jean’s eyes brightened at the sight of him, a warm smile spreading across her face. “It’s really nice to meet you, Min-ho,” she said, her tone friendly. “Kitty’s told me a lot about you.”
Min-ho nodded, relieved by her warmth. “It’s great to finally meet you.”
Margot, however, wasn’t impressed. Her arms were crossed, and she narrowed her eyes at Kitty, a skeptical look on her face.
“Kitty,” she said, her voice firm. “Does Dad know that you and your boyfriend are sharing a room?”
Kitty’s stomach dropped at the question. She glanced at Min-ho, who was still trying to maintain a respectful demeanor, though his eyes were widening slightly at the directness of Margot’s question.
“Uh…” Kitty fumbled for a response, “It’s... it’s fine, Margot. We’re on tour, and it’s a hotel room.”
Margot wasn’t buying it, her skepticism only growing. “Right,” she said flatly. “So… He doesn’t.”
Lara Jean cut in the conversation, quickly changing the subject. “So... you two are actually together, huh?”
Min-ho nodded, trying to sound confident. “Yes. We are.”
She smiled, “Well, it’s good to meet you. Kitty’s lucky to have someone who makes her so happy.”
Min-ho’s nervousness eased a little at the sincerity in Lara Jean’s voice. “Thank you. It means a lot.”
Lara Jean then raised an eyebrow, her voice taking on a teasing tone. “So... Do you love her?”
Min-ho froze, his face flushing as he nervously shifted from foot to foot. “Uh...”
Kitty, unable to hold back a laugh at his flustered expression, quickly reached for her laptop. “Okay, I think we’re done here.”
She clicked the “End Call” button before either of them could say anything more, leaving Min-ho still standing there, wide-eyed and a little mortified.
Notes:
Hey everyone!!!! I hope you enjoy this chapter!! I introduced some 'new' characters to the fic, and more will come in later as well!! I hope you all are having a wonderful day!
Chapter 21: Unexpected Guest
Chapter Text
Kitty flopped onto the hotel bed with a dramatic sigh, letting her body sink into the soft mattress. "I’m sorry about my sisters," she mumbled, glancing up at Min-ho through her lashes. "They really put you on the spot."
Min-ho, sitting at the edge of the bed, folded his shirts with meticulous care, his eyes focused on the task as if it could ground him. "It’s fine, Covey," he replied, his tone calm, though a slight blush tinged his neck.
Kitty couldn’t help but smirk at the sight. "Oh my God, you’re actually flustered."
Min-ho scoffed, trying to brush it off, but the flush deepened across his cheeks. "Am not."
She giggled, crossing her arms and tilting her head in a playful challenge. "You totally are. Was the 'do you love her?' question too much for you?"
"No—" Min-ho started, then faltered, his words trailing off. He quickly shook his head, muttering under his breath, "I just wasn’t ready for it."
Kitty softened, her teasing smile melting into something more sincere. She propped herself up and scooted closer, her fingers brushing lightly against his arm. "Min-ho..." Her voice was gentle, filled with understanding. "It’s okay. We’re figuring it out. You don’t have to be perfect right now."
His breath hitched at her touch, his body going still. He looked at her, eyes wide, as if her words were exactly what he needed to hear. His voice dropped to a whisper, raw with vulnerability. "I know. It’s just... I care about you, Kitty. A lot. And I don’t want to mess this up."
Kitty blinked, her heart skipping a beat. She hadn’t expected him to open up like this. "You’re not going to mess this up," she said softly, her hand resting over his in a silent promise. A reassuring smile curved her lips. "You’re the most incredible boyfriend."
At her words, Min-ho’s face lit up, his usual smirk returning slowly as confidence bloomed within him. "Oh? Is that so?" he teased, the playful glint in his eyes making him impossible to resist.
Kitty scoffed, pulling her hand back dramatically. "Actually, I take it back."
For a split second, Min-ho’s playful demeanor faltered before he moved quickly, grabbing her hand and pinning it gently to the bed. He stood, towering over her, his presence consuming as he caged her beneath him. "Don’t lie, Covey."
Their faces were inches apart now, breaths mingling in the air between them. The tension was palpable, different than anything they’d shared before. Kitty’s heart pounded as she felt the heat radiating off him, the intensity in his gaze making her pulse quicken.
Min-ho’s expression softened, his lips hovering above hers before he closed the distance, pressing a gentle kiss to her lips.
Kitty didn’t want the moment to end. As he tried to pull away, she quickly freed her hands, wrapping them around his neck and pulling him back to her, capturing his lips in a deep, hungry kiss.
Min-ho’s breath hitched, his arms bracing on either side of her as he lowered himself onto the bed, guiding her with him.
Kitty’s legs instinctively wrapped around his waist, drawing him closer, their bodies aligning perfectly. His breath caught as her hands slid down to his chest, and then around to his shoulders, pulling him in deeper.
Everything about the world outside this room faded away. Kitty didn’t care about anything but him—her body, her heart, her mind—everything was in perfect sync with Min-ho.
She kissed him, more desperately now, her lips trailing down to his neck. She hesitated for a moment, testing the waters, before pressing soft, warm kisses along his jawline.
Min-ho shuddered, his hands gripping her hips, pulling her impossibly closer. His eyes fluttered closed as he tilted his head back. “Kitty...” His voice was husky, the words breaking in the air as his fingers traced the curve of her body, memorizing every inch of her.
Kitty’s lips never left his skin, tracing a path down his neck, making him shiver, his breath ragged. The air between them felt electric, thick with desire. His fingers dug into her waist as he leaned in, capturing her lips once again, unable to get enough of her.
And just as the heat between them reached its boiling point, a voice pierced the air.
“Hey, have either of you seen my headphones?”
Before they could even react, the door creaked open, and there stood Joon Ho, frozen in the doorway, eyes wide in shock. His mouth fell open, and for a long moment, the room was silent except for the stunned expression on his face.
Min-ho’s eyes widened in pure panic. He scrambled to pull away, cheeks flushed a deep crimson. “Joon Ho! What the hell?!” Min-ho stammered, fumbling with his shirt and his hair, desperately trying to salvage the situation.
Kitty, equally flustered, pushed herself away, hastily adjusting her appearance, her heart racing as she shifted away from him.
Joon Ho stared at them, blinking, as if processing what he had just walked in on. “Oh my God,” he muttered, stepping back with a hand on his forehead. “I’m—nope. Nope. I don’t want to know.”
Min-ho and Kitty exchanged a look of absolute mortification. Min-ho opened his mouth to say something, but Joon Ho held up a hand, cutting him off.
"You two are ridiculous,” Joon Ho muttered, stepping further into the room without waiting for permission. “I’m just looking for my headphones. Seriously, lock the damn door next time.”
Min-ho’s scowl deepened, his face still bright red. “You didn’t even knock!”
“Yeah, well, now I’ve learned my lesson,” Joon Ho replied, rolling his eyes. He made his way over to the desk, grabbed the headphones from the table, and turned back toward the door. "I’ll leave you to your... business, but just so you know, we need to be at the airport in an hour. So maybe stop kissing and finish packing."
Kitty’s face was still beet-red, and she couldn't help but laugh, shaking her head. "You’re unbelievable."
Joon Ho threw them a knowing look over his shoulder as he exited the room. "That’s what you get for not locking the door," he said, smirking as he disappeared down the hallway.
Min-ho stood frozen, his heart still racing. He ran a hand through his hair, sighing in disbelief. "Well," he muttered, glancing over at Kitty, “That wasn’t... how I imagined that moment going."
Kitty felt a smile tug at her lips as the blush on her face slowly faded. She smoothed her hair back, trying to regain some composure, though she was still just as flustered as Min-ho.
“Alright, Covey,” Min-ho finally broke the silence, his voice low and still a little shaky. “We can, uh... continue that another time.” His cocky smirk returned, though it was a little more sheepish than usual.
He held out his hand, pulling her up off the bed. “Let’s finish packing, pretty girl.”
---
Kitty settled into her leather seat, the hum of the plane filling the space as she absentmindedly scrolled through her phone. She paused when she saw a text from her dad.
Dad: Hey, kiddo. Hope you’re having fun. Call me soon, okay?
Her stomach twisted. Call me soon. Right. Because she had to tell him. She had to tell him that the boy she was traveling the world with, the one she was spending so much time with, was in fact - her boyfriend.
She was about to reply when another notification popped up—messages from an unknown number.
Before she could check, the flight attendant announced that takeoff would be happening momentarily. With a resigned sigh, Kitty switched her phone to airplane mode, completely unaware she was missing several more texts.
Across the aisle, Min-ho watched her, his gaze lingering. He’d caught the flicker of worry in her eyes when she read the message from her dad, and he wished he could just hold her and tell her everything would be okay. But instead, he kept his cool.
“So, when exactly is Kitty telling her dad about Min-ho?” Dae asked, his grin mischievous.
Kitty groaned, her head falling back dramatically. "Can we not talk about this?"
"No, no, let’s," Joon Ho interjected, leaning forward with a grin. "It might be good for Min-ho to practice a little bit of restraint before he meets your Dad. Kitty - does your bedroom door lock?”
Kitty shot Joon Ho with a glare that could melt glass, though there was a hint of amusement in her eyes despite her discomfort. "I’m not telling him over text," she muttered, avoiding eye contact with Min-ho as her heart thudded uncomfortably in her chest. "I’m just... I don’t know how to bring it up. It’s not like it’s something we can just casually mention over dinner."
Dae laughed softly, clearly enjoying the teasing but also sensing the tension. "You don't have to drop the bomb all at once. You could ease him into it."
"Yeah," Joon Ho added with a shrug, "start with something simple like 'Hey, Dad, the guy I’ve been hanging out with constantly and sharing a room with? He’s my boyfriend.'"
He leaned back in his seat, clearly entertained by the situation.
Kitty groaned, sinking further into her seat. "This is not funny."
Min-ho, who had been listening quietly, finally spoke up, his tone gentle. "You don’t have to worry, Kitty. It’ll be fine." His voice was soothing, and though there was a hint of nervousness in his own eyes, he kept his composure. "If you want, we can do it together.”
Kitty looked at him, touched by his words, but still feeling the weight of the situation. She let out a deep breath, feeling the knot in her stomach tighten again. "I know. It’s just…”
Min-ho reached over, his hand brushing against hers in a reassuring gesture. "I understand. But this doesn’t change what we have. We’ll figure it out. Together."
Kitty glanced at his hand, then back at his face, her heart softening. There was a warmth in his expression, something so genuine that she felt the tightness in her chest ease a little. "Thanks," she whispered, squeezing his hand.
Before either of them could say anything more, the flight attendant’s voice came through the speakers, announcing that they were ready for takeoff. The plane began to rumble as it taxied down the runway, and the group fell silent for a moment, each of them lost in their own thoughts.
---
"Welcome to the Philippines." Joon Ho opened the door to their new suite, stepping aside to let everyone in.
The group stopped in their tracks, eyes wide as they took in the lavish penthouse before them. The space was beyond anything they had imagined: sleek, modern furniture, golden accents, floor-to-ceiling windows with a panoramic view of the city skyline. A massive chandelier hung in the center of the room, casting soft, warm light over everything.
The floor was polished marble, and there were plush rugs scattered around, making the room feel both luxurious and inviting.
"I can't believe this is real," Kitty whispered, eyes scanning the space in disbelief. "This is a hotel?"
"Not just any hotel," Min-ho said with a grin, clearly impressed. "This is a luxury hotel.”
Eunice was the first to speak, her voice full of awe as she spun around to take it all in. "I never think it can get any fancier, and then it always does." She laughed, shaking her head. "Seriously, it’s like we’re staying in a mansion."
Dae chuckled, slinging his bag over his shoulder as he crossed the room. "This place is next level. I feel like I should be wearing a suit just to sit on that couch."
Eunice plopped down on the plush couch that could fit about 12 people, stretching out like she owned the place. "Okay, this is it. I officially declare this the best hotel we’ve stayed in so far."
---
The group had quickly settled in, gathering in the spacious living room of their shared suite to watch a movie. Min-ho had claimed the prime spot on the couch, and Kitty had curled up beside him, stealing his popcorn with a playful grin. He didn’t mind at all. In fact, he was so absorbed in the feeling of her presence next to him—how it grounded him, made him feel at peace—that the movie itself seemed to fade into the background.
Kitty felt her eyelids growing heavier, the warmth of Min-ho’s side and the soothing hum of the movie lulling her toward sleep. Just as she was about to drift off completely, a knock at the door jolted her awake.
“I’ll get it!” Eunice chirped, springing to her feet, clearly expecting the food they had ordered.
But as she opened the door, her expression shifted instantly, her mouth falling open in shock.
“Yuri?!”
The entire room went silent as everyone whipped their heads around, eyes wide with surprise. There, standing in the doorway, was Yuri Han.
“Miss me?”
Notes:
I hope you guys are shocked to see Yuri here!!!!! Also I tried to make things a bit steamy this time, let me know if you enjoyed it!
Chapter 22: Convenience Store???
Chapter Text
"Yuri?" Kitty blurted out, eyes wide.
"Yeah, hi," Yuri said, stepping inside like she owned the place. "You missed all my texts!"
Kitty blinked. "What texts?"
Yuri waved her phone. "The ones from my new number. I was visiting my aunt here in the Philippines, and I was gonna surprise you guys at Joon Ho’s concert, but then I saw this—" She turned her phone around, showing a very clear social media post of Min-ho with his arms around Kitty at the Thailand concert. "This was all over the internet, and I was like, ‘Excuse me? Hello? My best friend is dating Min-ho, and I’m finding out with the rest of the world?!’ So I tried texting you, but you never answered. Then I had to contact Joon Ho’s team to even find this hotel."
Kitty winced, suddenly remembering that she’d put her phone on airplane mode before the flight and never checked her messages after. "Oh my god, I am so sorry—"
Yuri held up a hand. "Save it. You can make it up to me by telling me everything."
Before Kitty could react, Yuri grabbed her wrist and started pulling her toward another room.
Eunice grinned, immediately following. "Oh, this should be good."
Eunji laughed. "I’m not missing this either."
Min-ho, Joon Ho, and Dae were left sitting on the couch, watching helplessly as the girls disappeared. Joon Ho sighed, flopping back against the cushions.
"This again," Dae muttered.
Min-ho just ran a hand down his face.
---
Inside the room, Kitty sat cross-legged on the bed while the other girls stared at her, all wearing matching smirks.
"Okay, spill," Yuri demanded. "You and Min-ho. How. When. Why."
Kitty groaned, hiding her face behind her hands. "Why do we have to do this?"
"Because I was left out of the loop," Yuri said, poking her. "And I love a good romance story. So. Start talking."
Eunice folded her arms. "I mean, we all thought Min-ho was in love with you, but we also thought you didn’t like him back. So what changed?"
Kitty sighed, knowing there was no getting out of this. "Okay, fine. At first, I didn’t like him like that. But then… I don’t know. I started noticing things. How he always looked out for me, how he’s not as self-absorbed as he pretends to be—"
Eunji snorted. "Debatable."
Kitty rolled her eyes but kept going. "And then there was that time we got locked in a closet together."
Yuri’s jaw dropped. "WHAT?!"
Eunice’s eyes sparkled. "Oh, I am so excited to finally get the whole story."
Kitty groaned. "It wasn’t— I mean, okay, maybe it was kind of a big deal, because that’s when we kissed for the first time."
The room erupted into chaos.
Yuri smacked her arm. "Your FIRST kiss with him, how many have there been?!"
Kitty covered her face again. "I hate this."
"No, you love this," Yuri corrected. “Wait so you guys are official?”
“Yes. We are.”
Eunice interrupted, “It’s awkward enough with me and Dae sharing a room, I can’t imagine sharing a room with a guy I have been dating for a week.”
Kitty stiffened. "Um."
Yuri's jaw dropped. "YOU GUYS ARE ALREADY SHARING A ROOM?!!!!!!"
"It’s not—"
"OMG GIRLLLLLL, YOU TWO ARE SHARING A BED?!!!!!"
Kitty waved her hands frantically. "No, no, no, nothing like that has happened!"
Yuri smirked. "Yet."
Eunice and Eunji burst into laughter while Kitty buried her face in her hands again, trying to hide the fact that her face was bright red.
"Okay, okay," Eunji said, still grinning. "Just be careful. You don’t wanna end up like me."
She pointed to her very pregnant belly.
Yuri and Eunice cracked up, but Kitty just looked horrified. "Eunji!"
Eunji only grinned wider. "I’m just saying. Do we need to go to a convenience store?"
Kitty turned the color of a tomato. "OH MY GOD, STOP."
The girls completely lost it, laughing so hard that they had to clutch their stomachs.
---
Outside the room, Min-ho had just worked up the courage to go check on Kitty. He walked toward the door, curious about what they were talking about, but the moment he got close enough to hear, he froze.
"Do we need to go to a convenience store?"
Min-ho went stiff as a board.
His ears burned. His face burned. His soul burned.
"What are they talking about?" Joon Ho asked, standing up.
Min-ho turned so fast he nearly tripped over himself. "Nothing. Nothing!"
Dae raised an eyebrow. "Are you sure?"
"YES."
Min-ho practically ran in the opposite direction before they could question him further.
Joon Ho and Dae exchanged a look before slowly making their way toward the door.
"Min-ho ran off like the room was on fire," Joon Ho whispered. "We have to know why."
Dae hesitated. "Do we, though?"
Joon Ho ignored him and leaned in, pressing his ear to the door. With a sigh, Dae reluctantly did the same.
Inside, the girls were still giggling.
"Okay, but for real," Yuri said between laughs, "if you guys are sharing a room, it's only a matter of time before that happens."
Kitty groaned. "Can we not talk about this?"
“I agree.” Eunice shivered like she was trying to shake off the uncomfortable topic. “Dae and I sleep like we are on opposite sides of the world.”
“Well I’ve walked in on Min-ho and Kitty more times than I would like too, and let’s just say… they don’t.” Eunji smirked.
"STOP," Kitty whined.
Eunji grinned. "I’m starting to think it’s time for that trip to the convenience store."
Joon Ho, who had been listening very intently, suddenly lost it.
He burst out laughing so loudly that it echoed through the entire hotel suite.
Kitty’s eyes widened in horror. "Oh shit—did Min-ho hear that?!"
Yuri didn’t even hesitate. She stomped over and flung the door open.
Joon Ho was doubled over, clutching his stomach as he gasped for air between fits of laughter. Dae, on the other hand, looked pale, like he’d just been told the world was ending.
Kitty’s stomach dropped. "Where’s Min-ho?!"
Joon Ho wheezed, wiping a tear from his eye. "Oh my god- he ran."
Kitty’s heart pounded. "Ran where?"
Joon Ho grinned mischievously. "Away."
Dae, still looking shell-shocked, slowly turned to Kitty. "He bolted the second he heard you guys talking about… sex."
Kitty gasped. "MIN-HO THINKS WE WERE SERIOUS?!"
Joon Ho completely lost it again, practically collapsing onto the couch in hysterics.
Yuri smirked, crossing her arms. "Well at least we don’t have to worry, you both are wayyyy too nervous for that to happen.”
Kitty groaned, already dreading the conversation she was about to have with a very flustered Min-ho.
She ran a hand through her hair, trying to steady herself. “I’ll go find him.”
Dae, still looking like he’d just stuck a fork in an electrical socket, muttered, “You sure you two are safe by yourselves?”
But before Kitty could respond, he visibly cringed at his own words, shaking his head furiously. “Nope, nope, I take it back. I don’t wanna know.”
Kitty burst out laughing at the sight of him, then shook her head and headed off to find Min-ho.
---
She slid open the door to the balcony, stepping into the cool night air. Min-ho stood by the railing, his hands gripping the edge as he gazed out over the sparkling Manila skyline. The city stretched endlessly before him, lights twinkling like stars against the dark horizon.
He didn’t turn right away, but when he finally glanced over his shoulder, his face softened. “Hey, Covey.”
“Hey,” she said, stepping closer. “What are you doing out here?”
“Just… looking at the city,” he murmured, his voice quieter than usual. “I think this is my favorite stop so far.”
Kitty leaned against the railing beside him, following his gaze. The view really was breathtaking. “Yeah,” she admitted. “Mine too.”
A comfortable silence settled between them, the noise from inside fading as the night air wrapped around them. Kitty rested her head on his shoulder. Almost instantly, Min-ho’s arm curled around her waist, pulling her against him like it was second nature.
Kitty let out a small sigh before breaking the silence. “I’m sorry about the girls. I know you heard what they were saying, and I swear it was just—”
“Covey, relax.” Min-ho’s voice was laced with amusement. “It’s okay. I didn’t hear anything… just an overwhelming amount of giggling.” He smirked, tilting his head slightly. “Had to come out here and decompress, you know?”
Kitty narrowed her eyes playfully. “Liar.”
Min-ho chuckled, but before she could call him out again, he leaned in slightly, lowering his voice. “I hope you weren’t talking bad about me, pretty girl.”
Kitty felt her breath catch for half a second before she rolled her eyes, nudging him lightly. “You’re impossible.”
Min-ho grinned, his arm tightening around her just a little. “And yet, here you are.”
After a few more minutes of peaceful silence on the balcony, Min-ho gave Kitty’s waist a gentle squeeze. “We should probably go back before they start making up conspiracy theories about us.”
Kitty sighed dramatically. “Oh, they already have.”
He smirked. “Yeah? What’s the verdict?”
She looked up at him with a teasing glint in her eyes. “Undecided. But heavily leaning toward scandalous.”
Min-ho groaned, shaking his head as he took her hand, leading her back inside.
---
As soon as they stepped into the penthouse, Joon Ho wasted no time. “Well, well, look who’s back,” he drawled, wiggling his eyebrows. “Did you guys—”
Min-ho shot him a sharp look, cutting him off instantly.
Joon Ho held up his hands in surrender, biting back a grin as he turned his attention to the TV. “Okay, okay. Movie time. No more interrogations… for now.”
Kitty rolled her eyes as she plopped onto the couch beside Eunice, who smirked at her knowingly. Min-ho settled beside her, stretching an arm across the back of the couch like he wasn’t still a little flustered.
Just as the movie started up, Min-ho’s phone vibrated once. Then again. And again.
He sighed, pulling it out to check. His eyes widened as he read the texts flooding in.
Q: “You guys are in Manila?????”
Q: “WHAT.”
Q: “HELLO??????”
Min-ho barely had time to process before his phone rang. He exchanged a glance with Kitty before answering.
“Hey, man,” he said, already bracing himself.
“Dude,” Q’s voice exploded through the speaker. “You’re in Manila?! And nobody thought to tell me?”
Kitty winced, grabbing the phone. “It wasn’t a secret! We just—”
“Kitty,” Q cut in, sounding completely betrayed. “How long have you guys been there?”
Kitty hesitated. “Uh… we got in tonight?”
“Oh, bet. Cool. Cool.” Q’s tone was anything but cool. “Guess I’ll just see you guys first thing tomorrow, then.”
“What?” Kitty blinked. “Wait, you’re coming into the city?”
“Obviously. It’s my summer break. You think I’m missing a chance to reunite with my best friends in the Philippines?”
Before Kitty could even respond, Yuri’s voice chimed in from the other side of the couch. “Friend group vacation is finally getting out of the group chat?”
Min-ho groaned, running a hand down his face. “This trip just got a lot louder.”
Notes: Hey everyone!!! I'm so sorry this update is so late, Monday's are longggg for me! I LOVED writing this chapter, and I'm really excited for the original group to be together, I figured the Philippines were a good place for everyone to meet since Q's already there! I hope you guys are relieved that Yuri is NOT here to split up mooncovey because I got a lotttt of comments on that hahahahaha! I'm so excited to write the next couple chaptersssss
Chapter 23: Intramuros
Chapter Text
Min-ho lay still, completely immobile—not by force, but by choice. Kitty was wrapped around him, her legs tangled with his, her head resting against his chest as if she had no plans of letting go. Not that he had any complaints.
He remembered all the times he used to tease her when they shared a dorm at KISS—how he’d claim she snored like a truck and looked like a mess in the mornings. But looking at her now, peaceful in sleep, her breath soft against his skin, he realized just how wrong he had been.
She barely moved in her sleep, her body perfectly relaxed, her lips curled into the faintest smile, as if she were having the sweetest dream. Loose waves of hair framed her face, strands brushing against his collarbone. The sight of her like this—completely at ease, completely his—stirred something deep in his chest.
He still wasn’t used to this. To wake up beside her like this. To feel so entirely at home in her presence. It wasn’t just the fact that they were officially together now—it was knowing, with certainty, that she was his, and he was hers.
As if sensing his gaze, Kitty stirred, her brows furrowing slightly before her eyes fluttered open. She blinked up at him, slow and sleepy.
A lazy smile stretched across her lips. “Morning,” she murmured, her voice husky from sleep.
Min-ho felt his heart clench in the best way. He pressed a kiss to her forehead, lingering just a second longer than necessary. “Morning, pretty girl.”
She let out a content hum and burrowed deeper into his chest, her fingers lazily tracing circles on his side. “Five more minutes,” she mumbled against his skin.
Min-ho chuckled, his fingers weaving through her hair. “Covey, we have to get up soon. Q’s expecting us.”
Kitty groaned dramatically, tightening her hold around him. “Q can wait.”
Min-ho smirked. “He’ll come find us if we don’t show up.”
She pulled back just enough to look at him, her eyes glinting with playful mischief. “Let him try. I locked the door this time.”
Min-ho raised a brow. “Oh? You learn quickly.”
Kitty grinned, and before he could say anything else, she pressed her lips to his.
The kiss was soft at first, lazy and unhurried, like they had all the time in the world. Min-ho hummed against her mouth, his fingers tracing slow circles against her back as he pulled her closer. Kitty sighed into the kiss, her hand threading through his hair, tugging just enough to make his breath hitch.
That was all the encouragement he needed.
Min-ho deepened the kiss, tilting his head as his lips moved against hers, slow but deliberate. He loved kissing her—loved the way she melted into him so easily, like she was made to fit against him. His hand slid down her waist, his thumb grazing the exposed skin beneath her shirt.
“Still want to get up?” Kitty murmured between kisses.
Min-ho barely pulled back, his lips brushing against hers as he whispered, “Not really.”
Kitty’s heart swelled, it was easy to tell how much Min-ho cared for her.
He kissed her again, slower this time, savoring every second. His lips ghosted over the corner of her mouth before trailing down to her jaw, then her neck.
Kitty let out a soft, breathy laugh, her fingers tightening in his hair. “You’re getting carried away.”
Min-ho smirked against her skin. “Does that bother you?”
He could feel the way her heart raced against his chest, “I don’t mind,” Kitty said grinning. She tilted her head, allowing Min-ho more space.
His phone buzzed on the nightstand.
Min-ho groaned, dropping his head onto Kitty’s shoulder. “You’ve got to be kidding me.”
Kitty giggled, reaching for the phone. “It’s Q.”
Min-ho took the call, still half-buried against her. “What?” he answered, not even trying to hide his annoyance.
“Uh, good morning to you too?” Q said. “Just calling to say we’re about twenty minutes from Intramuros. Are you guys on the way?”
Min-ho glanced up at Kitty, still tangled up with him in bed, looking far too pleased with herself. He sighed, running a hand through his hair before answering, “Yes, yes, we’re leaving soon.”
Kitty covered her mouth to stifle a laugh.
Q hummed, clearly unconvinced. “You don’t sound like someone who’s left the hotel.”
Min-ho scowled. “See you in twenty.” He hung up before Q could respond.
Kitty grinned. “Lying so early in the morning?”
Min-ho sighed dramatically. “It’s not lying if I fully intend to leave soon.”
She laughed, finally rolling out of bed and stretching. Min-ho watched her with an amused smirk. “Come on, babe,” she said, holding out a hand to pull him up. “Let’s go explore Manila.”
Min-ho took her hand, lacing their fingers together as he got up. “Fine. But I fully expect to pick up where we left off later.”
Kitty blushed, nudging him playfully before heading to get ready. Min-ho watched her go, shaking his head fondly.
Yeah, this was definitely the best way to wake up.
---
After getting ready and meeting up with Dae and Eunice, they made their way downtown, where Q and Yuri were already waiting.
The second Kitty spotted Q, she ran straight for him. “Q!”
Q barely had time to react before Kitty threw her arms around him, squeezing him tight. He laughed, hugging her back just as enthusiastically. “Look who finally remembers I exist!”
Min-ho approached with a smirk. “Don’t be dramatic, Q.”
Q pulled back and gave him a knowing look. “My two best friends ran off together and then went radio silent. I have every right to be dramatic.”
Kitty laughed, linking her arm through Q’s. “I missed you.”
Q grinned. “I missed you too. Now, tell me everything. When did this”—he gestured between her and Min-ho—“become official? And how did Min-ho not manage to run you off?”
Min-ho scoffed. “Excuse me?”
Kitty giggled, squeezing Min-ho’s hand. “It’s a long story.”
“Well, lucky for you, we have a whole day ahead of us,” Q said. “And since I’m practically a Manila expert, I’m going to make sure we hit all the best spots.”
---
As the group stepped into Intramuros, the shift in atmosphere was immediate. The cobblestone streets were lined with centuries-old buildings that whispered stories of the past. Towering stone walls surrounded the district. Carved wooden balconies jutted out from pastel-colored houses, and ornate street lamps cast a warm glow over the walkways despite the midday sun. The rhythmic clatter of a passing kalesa only added to the old-world charm.
Kitty took a deep breath, letting the rich scent settle in her lungs. "This place is incredible," she murmured, eyes darting from one historic building to the next.
Q smiled. "Told you. It’s like stepping into another era."
Eunice, who had been busy adjusting her sunglasses, suddenly grabbed Yuri’s arm. "We need pictures," she declared, dragging her toward a moss-covered archway. "Lots of pictures."
Yuri sighed but didn’t resist, already unlocking her phone. "You just want an excuse to make Dae pose with you," she muttered.
"Obviously," Eunice said, linking her arm through Dae’s and striking a dramatic pose. "Dae, look regal."
Dae blinked. "What does that even—"
"Just stand there and look pretty!"
As Yuri snapped a photo, Q turned back to Min-ho and Kitty, an eager gleam in his eyes. "Alright, spill. I need the full story.”
Min-ho smirked, slipping his hand into Kitty’s. "Well, it all started when Covey here decided to crash my summer."
Kitty rolled her eyes but leaned into him anyway. "Excuse me, you were the one who invited me on tour."
"Yeah, but I didn’t think you’d actually come," Min-ho shot back playfully. "I figured you’d be too busy writing love letters or—"
"Min-ho," Kitty warned, squeezing his hand in a not-so-subtle threat.
Q grinned. "So she joins you on tour. Then what?"
Kitty laughed. "Then we get stuck sharing a bed in the hotel."
Q's eyes widened as he processed what Kitty had just told him. "Hold on. Hold on. You mean to tell me—” He dramatically pointed at them. “You two were sharing a bed this whole time? From the start of the tour?"
Min-ho scoffed. "It was tragic at first. She took up half the bed, kicked me in her sleep—"
"I did not—" Kitty paused, and turned towards Q. "Wait, you aren’t surprised we are sharing a room? Just that it was from the start of the tour?"
Q laughed shyly. "Uh yeah, Yuri might have told me some things."
Kitty groaned. "Of course she did."
Q waved a hand. "But she left out the timeline! So, when exactly did you two go from ‘annoying roommates’ to this?" He gestured between them dramatically.
Min-ho’s smirk deepened. "Technically… the closet."
Q’s jaw dropped. "The what?!"
Min-ho squeezed Kitty’s hand. "You remember that, don’t you, Covey?"
Kitty rubbed her free hand down her face. "Yes, I remember that." She turned towards Q. "We got locked in a backstage closet the day before the opening night of the tour, and I kissed him."
"You kissed him?! Oh, this is so much better than I imagined." Q turned to Min-ho, pointing accusingly. "And you—when did you make it official?"
Min-ho grinned. "Opening night."
Q groaned, dramatically clutching his chest. “FINALLY. I couldn’t watch you guys thirst over each other anymore.” He turned to Kitty, “And you WILL be telling me every single detail later.”
Kitty laughed, nudging him. “You act like I have a choice.”
“You don’t,” Q confirmed with a smirk.
Before Kitty could argue, Yuri called out, “Are we done here? Or are you going to keep interrogating them all day?”
Q sighed dramatically. “Fine, fine. But I’m not done with you two.” He shot them both a look before turning back to the group. “Alright, where to next?”
Min-ho chuckled, wrapping an arm around Kitty’s shoulders as they started walking. The warm Manila sun shone above them, casting a golden glow over the historic streets of Intramuros. The day was still young, and their adventure had only just begun.
Notes:
HI EVERYONE!!! I’m back! I’m so sorry I didn’t update the past few days, my mom had to get emergency surgery so I’ve been spending a lot of time in the hospital. She’s starting to get better!! I hope you guys enjoy this chapter, and I will post as frequently as possible, hopefully things will get back to normal soon!
Chapter 24: Fish Tanks and Feelings
Chapter Text
The car ride away from Intramuros carried a relaxed energy. Manila’s streets blurred past the windows, the golden hour light spilling over the skyline. Kitty leaned back into Min-ho’s side, his arm casually draped over her shoulder.
She glanced toward Yuri, who was staring out the window, her fingers absentmindedly tracing patterns against her phone screen. There was something about the way she held herself-quiet, distant-that made Kitty hesitate before speaking.
"You okay, Yuri?"
Yuri blinked, as if pulled out of a trance. "Yeah, just... thinking."
It was the kind of answer that was meant to shut down further questions, but Kitty wasn’t convinced. She shifted forward slightly. "You don’t have to pretend with us, you know."
Yuri sighed, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "I know. It’s just..." She exhaled, her voice quieter. "Everything with my dad has been a lot. And I keep waiting to feel normal again, but I don’t think I even know what ‘normal’ is anymore."
A silence settled over the group, the soft hum of traffic filling the space. Dae looked like he wanted to say something but wasn’t sure how. Even Eunice, usually quick to jump in with something comforting, just reached over and squeezed Yuri’s hand.
Surprisingly, it was Min-ho who spoke next. "I get it."
Kitty felt his arm move from her shoulder as he sat up straighter. His expression was thoughtful, more serious than usual.
"When my parents got divorced, I didn’t feel like a person anymore. Just... a piece of property they were fighting over while the whole world watched." He let out a slow breath, his fingers tapping against his knee. "And then when ‘Moon Leaks’ happened, suddenly everyone acted like they cared about how I felt… but they didn’t. They just wanted a good story."
Yuri turned to look at him, her expression shifting slightly.
Min-ho brushed his hair back, his voice softer now. "I won’t lie to you and say it gets easier overnight. But I’m sorry you’re going through this. And if it’s any help, I never thought I’d have a good relationship with my family again. Or that I’d ever be able to actually open up to people. But somehow, with everyone in this car’s help... I’m the happiest I’ve ever been."
A beat of silence followed.
Then Yuri sighed, shaking her head. "You’re so annoying when you say something actually meaningful."
Min-ho smirked. "I know. It’s awful, right?"
Yuri huffed, but there was the smallest hint of a smile there.
Dae, who had been silent up until now, finally spoke. "You don’t have to figure it all out right away, Yuri. You just have to let yourself be here, with us."
Yuri leaned back against her seat, hugging her arms around herself. "Yeah," she murmured. "I think I needed that reminder."
Kitty nudged Min-ho’s leg with hers, warmth blooming in her chest at how he had opened up. He glanced down at her, and she squeezed his hand in quiet support.
---
Star City was bursting with energy. Bright lights flashing, the scent of fried food in the air, and the distant sounds of rides whirring and people screaming.
Kitty’s eyes immediately locked onto the biggest rollercoaster in the park. Her mission was clear.
"Come on, babe," she said, tugging on Min-ho’s hand with a grin. "You have to ride this with me."
Min-ho raised an eyebrow, clearly unimpressed. "Watch me not."
Kitty gasped, clutching her chest dramatically. "Oh, really? You want to go there?"
Min-ho shook his head with a smile before threading his fingers through hers. “You know me too well. I’d never say no to you.”
Kitty beamed. "That’s what I thought."
Meanwhile, Q was already analyzing the ride layout. "Yuri and I are sitting in the back," he declared. "It’s scientifically proven to have the maximum drop effect."
Yuri crossed her arms. "And that’s... supposed to be a good thing?"
"Absolutely."
Dae exhaled sharply as they walked toward the front of the line. "This is fine. I’m fine. It’s just a ride."
Eunice smirked. "Sure, babe."
They buckled in, Kitty and Min-ho in the first row, Eunice and Dae behind them, with Q and Yuri claiming the last row as planned. The coaster clicked into motion, climbing higher and higher until the entire city skyline came into view beneath them.
Kitty turned to Min-ho, whose fingers were still loosely intertwined with hers. He looked perfectly at ease, his expression unreadable.
Then, the drop.
Dae’s scream practically shattered the night air.
Q let out a loud burst of laughter mid-ride, while Yuri’s panicked voice rang out: "OH MY GOD, WHY IS IT SO FAST?!"
But the real surprise? Min-ho.
Kitty felt his grip on her hand tighten, a lot. She turned her head slightly, catching sight of his face. His usual cool confidence was gone. Eyes squeezed shut, jaw locked, and a shade paler than she’d ever seen him.
Kitty tried to hold back her laughter. "Come on, babe, put your hands up! It’s way more fun that way!"
She playfully tried to pull her hand free, but his grip only tightened.
"Kitty, please don’t let go of me," Min-ho muttered through gritted teeth.
She burst into laughter but kept her fingers laced with his. "Okay, scaredy cat."
When they stumbled off the ride, Q was wiping away tears from laughing so hard. "Dae, you good, man?"
Dae, still gripping Eunice’s arm like a lifeline, took a deep breath. "I need... a minute. Several minutes."
Eunice patted his shoulder. "I’m proud of you"
Kitty, still grinning, wrapped an arm around Min-ho’s waist. "Told you it wasn’t that bad."
Min-ho shot her a deadpan look. "Not funny."
"It’s kinda funny."
Min-ho exhaled through his nose, still looking pale, but the corners of his mouth twitched. Kitty, still feeling giddy, stood on her tiptoes to press a soft kiss to his cheek.
His smirk finally returned as he kissed her temple.
After a few more rides (and Dae throwing up) the group found themselves in front of a ring toss booth. Q planted his feet. "Alright. I’m winning Yuri a bear."
Yuri blinked. "Why?"
"Because you’ve had a hard summer and giant stuffed bears are basically therapy."
Kitty watched as Yuri hesitated, then finally shrugged. "I mean, I’m not stopping you."
Q lined up his shot. The ring bounced off the bottle.
Then again. And again. And again.
"Okay, this game is rigged," Q announced, hands on his hips.
Yuri finally rolled her eyes, took the last ring from him, and threw it. It landed perfectly.
Kitty snorted as the vendor handed Yuri a massive stuffed bear.
Yuri smirked, holding out the bear. "Here. Now stop embarrassing yourself."
Q hesitated, then took it with exaggerated defeat. "I have never been more humbled in my life."
Yuri just shook her head, but Kitty caught the small smile playing on her lips. And as they walked away, Yuri’s voice came—softer, more sincere.
"Thanks," she murmured, just loud enough for Q to hear.
He nudged her lightly with his elbow. "Anytime."
Dae, finally looking less traumatized, threw an arm around Eunice’s shoulder. "Alright, where to next?"
Q grinned. "Time to go see some fish."
---
The cool, dim glow of the aquarium was a welcome change from the chaos outside. The group wandered through glass tunnels, pointing at jellyfish that pulsed like tiny galaxies and sharks that glided silently overhead.
Min-ho and Dae, predictably, had gotten into another ridiculous conversation.
“That does not look like me!” Min-ho’s offended voice rang out.
Kitty turned to see Dae as he dramatically gestured toward a rather unfortunate-looking fish that had a wide, flat face and bulging eyes. She laughed, but before she could say anything, Q gently pulled her aside.
"So," Q said, crossing his arms, eyes narrowing with intrigue. "You and Min-ho."
Kitty sighed but found herself smiling despite her best efforts to be serious. "Is this a new hobby for you?" she asked, raising an eyebrow.
Q shrugged with a cheeky grin. "Maybe. So... you’ve kissed?"
Kitty gave him a look, “Obviously.”
Q leaned in, lowering his voice. "Do you love him?"
Kitty felt her stomach do a nervous flip, and her cheeks flushed a little. "Q!" she hissed, her voice filled with embarrassment.
"What? It’s a valid question!" he teased, nudging her playfully.
She rolled her eyes, but there was no hiding the small smile tugging at her lips. "I… I do," she admitted quietly.
Q’s grin widened. "And have you told him?"
Kitty hesitated, a knot forming in her stomach as her thoughts rushed to Min-ho. "Not yet," she said, her voice tinged with uncertainty. "I just… I don’t know when the right time is."
Q nodded, his expression softening a bit. "Fair. But he’s obviously head over heels for you, I don’t think you have anything to worry about.”
Kitty looked down at her shoes, her heart beating a little faster. "Yeah, I know."
There was a pause, and then Q’s eyes twinkled with mischief again. "Also, you’re still sharing a room?"
Kitty shot him a sharp look. "Yes," she said quickly. "And it’s fine."
There was a beat of silence before Q leaned in slightly, his expression turning more serious, though there was still a teasing undertone. "Have you guys talked about it?"
Kitty bit her lip, looking up at him. "No," she admitted, her voice small. She didn’t know why, but that felt like a weird thing to say out loud. "But... I don’t think we need to. We’re fine."
Q studied her for a moment, his eyes narrowing as he gave a slow nod. "Well, I’m pretty sure Min-ho isn’t a virgin."
Kitty’s breath caught in her throat, and for a brief moment, she felt a pang of something sharp and unexpected. It wasn’t that she didn’t know Min-ho had a past, of course he did. But hearing it so plainly made her feel… well, possessive, maybe even a little jealous. The thought of him with someone else made her stomach churn in a way she hadn’t anticipated.
"I... guess," she murmured, her voice quieter than before. "It’s just... I don’t know. I don’t even know why I care."
Q gave her an understanding look. "Because you do. And it’s okay to feel that way."
Kitty frowned, trying to shake off the feeling but finding it a little harder than usual. "I’m fine," she muttered, though she wasn’t entirely sure she believed herself.
Q gave her a half-smile, "You’ll figure it out.” Then his teasing grin returned, “If you ever need me to buy any uh… goods for you two, just let me know.”
Kitty groaned loudly, “Please, not this again.”
Notes:
Hiiiiii! Good news! My mom was able to get discharged from the hospital!!! I should be going back to daily updates starting today! I might even post another chapter tonight! I loved writing this chapter, I wanted to focus on Yuri and her crazy life but also include a fun group dynamic!
I've missed you guys so much!
Chapter 25: "I love you."
Chapter Text
The group's shared laughter filled the quiet elevator as they made their way back to the penthouse. They had spent the entire day sightseeing and exploring Manila. Kitty felt the tiredness in her limbs, but the array of pictures Q was showing everyone from the day was too funny for her to ignore.
When they stepped into the penthouse, they were greeted by the sounds of an intense video game battle. Joon Ho and Eunji were sprawled across the couches, locked in a fierce match, fingers flying over their controllers.
“Gotcha!” Eunji’s voice rang out triumphantly.
Joon Ho groaned dramatically, throwing his head back. “You’re definitely cheating!” he accused, but the grin on his face said otherwise.
Kitty chuckled, shaking her head. It was nice to see everyone enjoying themselves. This trip had been the best decision she’d ever made.
“Oh! Hey, Dad, I thought you had meetings tonight?” Min-ho’s voice pulled her out of her thoughts. She turned to see Mr. Moon, looking oddly casual in sweats, very different from his usual crisp suits, holding menus in his hand.
“I was thinking we could all have a game night tonight,” Mr. Moon said, his voice surprisingly warm. “I’ll order takeout, and we can all hang out. Relax.”
The group went silent for a moment, exchanging confused glances.
Min-ho blinked. “I’m sorry, what?”
“I’ve been working too much lately,” Mr. Moon continued, almost shyly. “It’s time I spend some time with my family.”
Min-ho still looked stunned, but Kitty could see the flicker of something softer in his eyes.
“I’m game,” Min-ho said slowly, as if testing the words out. “But… this is a first. Are you sure?”
Mr. Moon gave a small smile. “I’m sure.”
Kitty couldn’t help but feel warmth bloom in her chest. It was such a small gesture, but it meant something. Min-ho wasn’t used to seeing his father like this, and she could tell it mattered.
“Alright, count me in,” Kitty said with a smile, and the rest of the group quickly agreed.
Before long, the staff brought in the takeout, and everyone settled in for a night of games. The coffee table was quickly covered in an array of delicious dishes, and the atmosphere was light, filled with teasing and laughter as they ate.
Q, who had finished his meal first, suddenly stood and held up a box with a dramatic flourish.
“Alright, who dares challenge me?” he announced, waving a Twister box in the air.
“Oh, you’re on.” Eunice smirked, standing up to help Q spread out the mat.
The first round consisted of Q, Eunice, Kitty, and Yuri.
Almost immediately, the game descended into chaos.
“Right foot green,” Dae announced, spinning the dial.
“Q, move your hand, you’re squishing me!” Kitty complained, struggling to hold her position.
“Not my fault you’re small!” Q shot back, trying not to collapse as Eunice effortlessly balanced on one foot.
Yuri, meanwhile, looked entirely unimpressed. “I don’t know why I agreed to this,” she muttered as she attempted to contort herself into an impossible angle.
In the end, Eunice emerged victorious, falling back on the couch in victory while the rest of them collapsed onto the floor.
“Remind me never to challenge you again,” Q grumbled, rubbing his arm as he stood up.
“Coward,” Eunice teased.
Q narrowed his eyes. “Alright, then, how about round two? Dae, Min-ho, you’re up. And this time, I will win.”
Min-ho arched an eyebrow, standing and rolling out his shoulders. “You really think you can beat me?”
“Uh, yeah?” Q scoffed.
Kitty smirked as the game began, but to everyone’s shock, Min-ho was… ridiculously good.
“Since when are you this flexible?” Dae asked, struggling to keep his balance as Min-ho effortlessly stretched into an impossible position.
“I have long limbs,” Min-ho said smugly, shifting with ease while Q wobbled dangerously beside him.
“This is unfair,” Q muttered.
“Maybe you should do more yoga,” Min-ho teased, just as Q lost his balance and toppled over.
“I hate you.”
Min-ho simply grinned, triumphant.
Then, just as things were settling down, Mr. Moon, of all people, cleared his throat.
“I’d like to play the next round,” he said casually.
Silence.
Joon Ho nearly choked on his drink. “Wait. You want to play Twister?”
Min-ho, still stretching from his victory, looked at his father in pure disbelief. “You? Twister?”
Mr. Moon crossed his arms. “What? I used to play all the time.”
Joon Ho narrowed his eyes. “This feels like a trap.”
“You scared?” Mr. Moon smirked.
Min-ho scoffed, shaking off his shock. “Alright, fine. Let’s do this.”
The game began, and immediately, it became the most ridiculous sight of the night.
“You ready for this, Dad?” Joon Ho grinned as he twisted himself into position.
“I’ve got years of experience,” Mr. Moon replied with a sly smile.
Min-ho shot him a skeptical look. “I’ve never seen you move this fast.”
“I don’t need to move fast,” Mr. Moon said smugly. “I just need to be strategic.”
What followed was complete chaos.
“Left foot yellow,” Kitty called out.
Min-ho grunted as he twisted into the position. “Dad, you’re literally pushing me over.”
“I’m just maximizing my reach,” Mr. Moon said innocently, somehow maintaining his balance.
Joon Ho, meanwhile, was trapped between both of them. “I swear, if I fall, you’re both going down with me,” he muttered.
“Right hand blue,” Q announced.
“Dad, don’t—”
Too late. Mr. Moon stretched just a little too far, knocking into Min-ho, who crashed into Joon Ho, sending them all tumbling to the ground in a heap.
Laughter erupted through the room as the three of them untangled themselves.
“Okay,” Min-ho gasped, still breathless from laughing. “You win. You’re the Twister champion.”
Joon Ho groaned from the floor. “You’re impossible, Dad.”
Mr. Moon simply stood and stretched, looking far too pleased with himself.
Kitty watched as Min-ho shook his head, still grinning. There was something different about his expression, something softer. This was more than just a game night. This was a shift. A breakthrough.
And she knew it meant everything to him.
---
As the night wound down, so did the energy in the penthouse. Laughter softened into quiet murmurs, the remnants of their game night still lingering in the air. One by one, everyone began retreating to their rooms, the warmth of the evening settling like a comforting haze.
Min-ho and Kitty were among the last to leave the living room, his hand resting lightly against the small of her back as they made their way down the hall.
By the time Kitty stepped into the bathroom, closing the door behind her, a different kind of quiet settled over her. The kind that came with being alone with her thoughts.
She let the hot water run over her skin, tilting her head back as steam curled around her. She wasn’t sure why, but something felt… off. Not in a bad way, exactly. Just in a way that made her stomach feel unsettled.
It wasn't game night. That had been perfect. It was Q’s words from earlier, the way he had hinted at things between her and Min-ho, the casual ease with which he had suggested that maybe Min-ho… had experience.
Kitty squeezed her eyes shut, rubbing her hands over her face. She trusted Min-ho completely. She would never hold someone’s past against them. And yet, she couldn’t shake the tiny voice in the back of her mind whispering… ‘What if you’re not enough? What if he’s had something deeper with someone else?’
She took a deep breath and tried to wash away the thoughts along with the shampoo in her hair.
By the time she stepped out, wrapping a towel around herself and slipping into her pajamas, she had convinced herself to let it go. It didn’t matter.
Right?
Opening the bathroom door, she stepped into the dimly lit room. Min-ho sat on the edge of the bed, his phone in his hand, but when he looked up and saw her, his expression softened.
Kitty mustered a small smile. “Your turn.”
Min-ho set his phone aside and stood, crossing the space between them with ease. His fingers slipped through the damp strands of her hair, and he pressed a soft kiss to her forehead before he disappeared into the bathroom.
---
When Min-ho returned, a towel slung over his shoulders and damp strands of hair falling into his eyes, the first thing he noticed was Kitty lying still under the blankets, staring at the ceiling.
That wasn’t normal.
Usually, she’d be flipping through her phone, scribbling something in her journal, or—at the very least—making some sort of comment about how long he took in the bathroom. But now, she was just quiet.
Min-ho tossed his towel onto the chair and slid into bed beside her, the mattress dipping as he settled in. Without thinking, he reached for her hand, finding her fingers curled tensely against the sheets. He rubbed his thumb over her knuckles, his voice gentle.
“Hey.”
Kitty tensed, then let out a slow breath. “Hey.”
Min-ho frowned. “You okay?”
“I’m fine,” she said too quickly.
His frown deepened. Kitty was a lot of things, but a good liar wasn’t one of them.
“Kitty.”
Just her name—no teasing, no coaxing, just quiet concern.
She hesitated, her fingers twitching against his. He could feel the slight tremor, the way her breath caught like she was debating whether to say something or keep it buried.
Finally, she turned her head to look at him, her voice small, almost hesitant.
“I talked to Q earlier.”
Min-ho relaxed a little. “Yeah?”
Kitty swallowed. “He kind of made it sound like you’ve… done that.”
Min-ho blinked. “Done what?”
Kitty felt heat rise to her cheeks. She shifted, gripping the blanket tighter. “You know…” Her voice dropped lower. “Sex.”
A heavy pause filled the room.
Then Min-ho bolted upright, knocking the covers off both of them. “What?!”
Kitty’s eyes widened. “Why are you yelling?”
“Because—what?!” he repeated, looking completely thrown. “Why—what—who—why?”
Kitty sat up, wrapping the blanket around her. “It’s okay if you have. I was just wondering.”
Min-ho ran a hand through his hair, still processing. “I—wait.” He exhaled sharply, shaking his head. “Kitty, I promise you, I haven’t.”
Kitty’s gaze flickered with something unreadable—caught between surprise and confusion. “Really?” she asked softly.
Min-ho let out a breathless laugh, rubbing the back of his neck. “Yeah. I mean, I get why people assume. I never really denied it. But it’s not true.”
Kitty studied him. “Why didn’t you correct them?”
Min-ho hesitated.
Leaning back against the headboard, he dragged a hand over his face. “Honestly? I was embarrassed.”
Kitty’s brow furrowed. “Why would that be embarrassing?”
Min-ho sighed, his fingers tapping idly against the sheets. “Because I was supposed to be that guy, you know? The player, the rich kid with no feelings, the guy who had everything. But the truth is… I never let it go that far with anyone.” His voice softened. “Because I didn’t want to.”
Kitty’s heart did a strange little flip. “You didn’t?”
Min-ho shook his head. “No. I think… I just always believed that it should mean something. That I should only share that part of myself with someone I actually love.”
The word hung between them, heavy and unspoken.
Kitty barely breathed. “Oh.”
Min-ho glanced at her, searching her expression. “Does that… disappoint you?”
Kitty’s eyes widened. “What? No!” She immediately shook her head, reaching for his hand. “Min-ho, no. I was just—” She bit her lip. “I just assumed you had.”
Min-ho scoffed. “Yeah, well. Everyone did.” He exhaled through his nose, a wry smile tugging at his lips. “But the truth is, I always kept my distance. The second a relationship felt too serious, I bailed.”
Kitty’s expression softened. “Because of your parents?”
A flicker of something crossed Min-ho’s face—something guarded. “Yeah. I saw how much they hurt each other, and I decided I wasn’t going to get hurt like that. I told myself love wasn’t worth it.”
Kitty’s chest ached at the quiet admission. She thought about the Min-ho she had met at KISS—the one who acted like nothing could touch him, like he had the whole world figured out. But behind all of that, he had just been protecting himself.
She hesitated before speaking. “I think I was the same way.”
Min-ho glanced at her.
Kitty swallowed, twisting the edge of the blanket between her fingers. “After my mom died, I think I locked my heart away too. I pretended I was just a matchmaker, like I only cared about other people’s relationships. But I think it was just easier than dealing with my own feelings.” She paused, looking up at him. “Because if I didn’t open my heart, I couldn’t lose anything.”
Min-ho’s fingers curled around hers.
For a long moment, they just sat there—breathing, existing in the space between vulnerability and something neither of them had fully acknowledged yet.
Then, finally, Kitty whispered, “But now… I’m not scared anymore.”
Min-ho’s breath hitched.
Slowly, she turned to face him, the weight of the moment pressing into her chest.
She wasn’t scared.
She wasn’t scared because this—Min-ho, their relationship, the way he looked at her like she was the only thing that mattered—felt safe. It felt like home.
Her heart pounded against her ribs, her fingers tightening around his. And then, without overthinking it, without letting fear or doubt get in the way, she said it.
“I love you, Min-ho.”
Min-ho froze.
For a second, it felt like the whole world had stopped. His fingers clenched around the sheets, his lips parting slightly, like he wasn’t sure if he had heard her correctly.
Kitty didn’t look away.
She wanted him to know she meant it.
Then, suddenly, Min-ho was moving.
His hands cupped her face, his eyes burning with something fierce, something undeniable, and before she could say anything else, his lips were on hers.
It wasn’t rushed. It wasn’t desperate.
It was slow, deliberate, like he was memorizing every second, like he had waited forever for this moment.
Kitty let out a shaky laugh, warmth blooming in every part of her. She pulled back an inch. “So I take it you’re okay with me saying that?”
Min-ho’s forehead rested against hers, his breath uneven. And then, in a voice so full of emotion it made Kitty’s chest tighten, he whispered,
“I love you.”
A kiss against her temple.
“I love you.”
A kiss against her cheek.
“I love you.”
He pulled back to look at her, his eyes dark and full of emotion. He cupped her face in his hands. “You are the only person I’ve ever felt this way for. You are the only person I ever want to feel this way for.” His voice cracked, thick with emotion.
Kitty reached up, brushing away the tear threatening to fall. She smoothed his hair gently. “I’m not going anywhere.” She brought his head down and kissed his forehead. “You make me the happiest I’ve been.”
A single tear slipped down Min-ho’s face.
“Are you alright?” Kitty asked softly.
Min-ho smiled, a little embarrassed. “You know earlier, when I said I thought love wasn’t worth the possibility of getting hurt?”
“Yeah?”
“It wasn’t worth it because I didn’t have you.”
Kitty’s lips curled into a smile. “Well, I’m not planning on hurting you. I’m not going anywhere.”
Min-ho’s smirk returned. “You’re not going to break my heart again, Covey?”
Kitty chuckled. “You know, after you ran away from me on the plane, when you told me you loved me the first time? I wanted to hear you out.” She shook her head, grinning. “Because you were right—I did like thinking of you that way.”
Min-ho laughed. “Oh? So that grimace was actually a smile?”
Kitty laughed, her hands reaching up to find his neck and pull him closer. “Shut up,” she murmured before pressing her lips into his.
Min-ho responded instantly, his arms wrapping around her as he pulled her on top of him. Their bodies fit together effortlessly, warmth sinking into every place they touched. He kissed her back, slow and deep, savoring the moment, like he had all the time in the world.
His fingers traced lazy, featherlight patterns along her spine, sending shivers through her body. Kitty melted into him, her hands threading through his damp hair, tugging gently as she deepened the kiss.
Min-ho let out a quiet, almost desperate sound against her lips, his grip tightening on her waist. His hands roamed her back, memorizing the shape of her, the way she felt in his arms.
She sighed into him, tilting her head as his lips moved against hers, soft but purposeful. He kissed her like he never wanted to stop—like he was afraid if he let go, she might disappear.
Kitty gasped when his mouth trailed along her jaw, down to the sensitive spot just below her ear. Min-ho smirked against her skin, pressing another lingering kiss there before bringing his lips back to hers.
Kitty clung to him, lost in the way he kissed her, in the way he touched her like she was something precious. Like she was everything.
He pulled away just enough to whisper against her lips, “Say it again.”
Kitty blinked up at him, her heart pounding. “Say what?”
Min-ho’s eyes searched hers, dark and full of something raw. “That you love me.”
A slow smile spread across her lips. She cupped his cheek, running her thumb over his skin, her voice soft but certain.
“I love you, Min-ho.”
His eyes fluttered shut for a second, as if he were absorbing the words, letting them settle deep inside him. Then, when he opened them again, there was nothing but pure adoration in his gaze.
Min-ho exhaled a quiet laugh, shaking his head. “I can’t believe this is real.”
Kitty leaned forward, burying her head in the crook of his neck. They fit perfectly together, like puzzle pieces made for each other.
“This is real,” she murmured against his skin before pressing a kiss to the edge of his collarbone. “I promise.”
Min-ho clung to her, scooting back on the bed so they could lay down. He pulled the covers over both of them, wrapping her up in his warmth as she settled against him, her body half-draped over his.
He smoothed her hair back from her face, his fingers threading gently through the strands. Kitty sighed into his touch, tightening her grip on his chest, listening to the steady rhythm of his heartbeat.
Min-ho pressed one last, lingering kiss to the top of her head.
“Goodnight, my love.”
Notes:
AHHHHHH This was my favorite chapter ever, and I really hope you guys loved it. I know it's super long but I really wanted them to have this talk AND THEY FINALLY CONFESSED THEIR LOVEEEE! I'm actually so giddy over my own fanfic help.
Chapter 26: Fireworks for Forever
Chapter Text
The room was dark, except for the faint glow of city lights filtering through the curtains.
Kitty lay curled against Min-ho’s warm body, his arm draped around her waist, his slow, steady breaths brushing against the nape of her neck. She shifted slightly, feeling the lingering warmth of the night before—the whispered confessions, the way Min-ho had looked at her like she was the best thing that had ever happened to him.
Her heart raced when she thought about it. I love you. She had said it first, and he had practically melted, repeating it over and over until she had to shut him up with a kiss.
Smiling to herself, Kitty turned onto her back and glanced at her phone. 3:42 AM. The apartment was silent, the kind of deep, peaceful quiet that only came in the early hours of the morning. She let out a small sigh, realizing now just how hungry she was. She had barely eaten during game night, too caught up in her thoughts.
She carefully began to wriggle free from his grip, but Min-ho murmured in his sleep, his arm tightening around her waist as he pulled her closer.
"Min-ho," she whispered, stifling a laugh.
He only murmured something incoherent, his grip like iron. After a few more careful twists and turns, she finally managed to slip out of his grasp and climb out of bed. She tiptoed toward the door, glancing back once to make sure he was still asleep. He had rolled onto his back, one arm stretched toward where she had just been.
Shaking her head with a small smile, Kitty stepped quietly into the dimly lit living room. The air mattresses where Q and Yuri were sleeping were sprawled out in the space between the couch and coffee table. Careful not to wake them, she moved toward the kitchen, opening cabinets in search of something to eat.
Nothing. Not even a sad, forgotten granola bar.
She was closing the last cabinet when—
"You craving a midnight snack too?"
Kitty nearly screamed, jumping a foot in the air, but a hand clamped gently over her mouth before she could make a sound.
"Shh!" Q whisper-laughed, grinning at her as he slowly removed his hand.
"Are you trying to give me a heart attack?!" she whispered, pressing a hand to her chest.
Q smirked, holding up his other hand, where he clutched a whole stash of snack boxes.
Kitty gasped. "Where did you get all of this?"
Q shrugged, hopping onto the kitchen island and setting down the snacks. "Joon Ho has enough snacks to feed an army. He won’t notice."
Grinning, Kitty climbed up beside him. "I won’t argue with free food."
They ripped open some bags of chips and cookies, munching in comfortable silence for a moment. Then Q turned to her, a knowing look in his eyes. "So… how’s Min-ho?"
Kitty rolled her eyes but couldn’t hide her smile. "We said ‘I love you’ last night."
Q’s face lit up. "Oh my God, finally!"
She laughed, tossing a chip at him. "Shh! You’re going to wake everyone up!"
Q dramatically lowered his voice. "Finally." He popped the chip in his mouth, then gave her a teasing smirk. "And? Did anything else happen?"
Kitty shot him a look. "Define ‘anything else.’"
"You know what I mean."
She groaned, covering her face. "Okay, first of all, Min-ho is actually a virgin, despite his whole playboy persona—"
Q nearly choked on his snack. "No way."
"Yes way. So stop making jokes."
"Not for long," Q teased, grinning.
Kitty smacked his arm, mortified. "Shut up!"
Q laughed, then nudged her. "Okay, fine. Enough about you and Min-ho. What about me? You haven’t asked about Jin!"
Kitty gasped. "You’re right! Tell me everything!"
Q’s expression softened. "We’re really happy. I miss him like crazy, though. He sent me the sweetest voice message this morning."
Kitty smiled, resting her chin on her hand. "You two are disgustingly cute."
Q smirked. "Not as disgustingly cute as you and Min-ho."
Kitty rolled her eyes, but she was still smiling as she popped another chip into her mouth. "Okay, but how far have you and Jin gone?"
Q gave her a sly look. "Farther than you and Min-ho. Let’s just say that."
Kitty’s jaw dropped, and Q just wiggled his eyebrows.
"You did not—"
"Goodnight, Kitty," Q said in a singsong voice, hopping off the counter and grabbing his stolen snacks.
Kitty rolled her eyes, sliding off the counter as well. "Goodnight, Q."
She crept back toward the bedroom, carefully opening the door and slipping inside. Min-ho was still asleep, his body curled up in the blankets. She quietly crawled back under the covers, trying not to wake him-
But the second she settled in, his arms wrapped around her, pulling her flush against his chest.
"Where do you go?" he mumbled sleepily.
Kitty smiled, running her fingers through his soft hair. "Just to get a snack."
Min-ho didn’t respond—he was already asleep again.
---
Kitty shifted beneath the soft silk sheets, her limbs tangled in warmth, her skin kissed by the first light of morning pouring gently through the curtains. For the first time in what felt like forever, she felt completely rested—her mind quiet, her heart full. She blinked awake, a soft stretch pulling through her arms and shoulders.
Instinctively, she rolled to her right, reaching for Min-ho. But the space beside her was cool and empty, the covers tossed back in lazy disarray.
She frowned slightly, still half-dreaming, and pushed the covers aside, slipping her feet into her slippers with a sleepy shuffle.
“Min-ho?” she called gently, padding across the room to the bathroom door. She gave it a soft knock. “Are you in there?”
No response.
She cracked the door open and stepped inside to brush her teeth, yawning as she grabbed her toothbrush.
“Kitty?”
She looked up and saw Min-ho peeking around the doorframe, holding it open just a crack. His hair was slightly damp, the ends curling from a recent shower, and he wore a soft gray T-shirt and sweatpants that hung perfectly on his frame.
“Oh no,” he said, a dramatic pout forming on his lips. “You’re already up. I wanted to surprise you.”
She giggled, wiping her mouth with the towel. “You shouldn’t have left me alone. I would’ve stayed in bed with you.”
Min-ho stepped inside, closing the distance between them in two easy strides. He wrapped his arms gently around her waist and tucked his face into the crook of her neck, his voice low and sleep-rough. “We can go back to bed now. I’ll even carry you.”
Kitty tilted her head to meet his gaze, her lips curving up. “That sounds perfect,” she murmured, rising on her toes to kiss him.
Min-ho hummed against her mouth, reluctant to let go even when they pulled apart. His hands stayed warm and steady on her hips as he guided her back into the bedroom.
A wooden tray sat carefully on the bed, loaded with flaky pastries dusted in powdered sugar, vibrant slices of fruit arranged in a rainbow, and two cups of coffee still steaming in the morning light. There was even a tiny flower in a glass jar.
Kitty gasped softly. “Ohhhh… this was my surprise.”
Min-ho grinned, watching her take it all in. “It’s not Paris, but I figured breakfast in bed might win me a few points.”
She turned in his arms, laughing as she buried her face against his chest. “I love it,” she said, hugging him tight.
He kissed the top of her head, lingering there before whispering, “I love you.”
Warmth flushed through her as if someone had lit a candle inside her chest. She leaned her cheek against his shoulder, smiling so hard it almost hurt.
“I could get used to you saying that,” she mumbled.
Min-ho gave her a playful squeeze. “Then I’ll make sure you hear it every day.”
They curled up on the bed, pulling the tray between them. Kitty took a bite of a flaky croissant, and crumbs scattered across the sheets, making her laugh.
“You’re such a messy eater,” Min-ho teased, handing her a napkin.
“I’m cute, though,” she said through a mouthful.
“The cutest,” he said, stealing the other half of her croissant with a grin.
She narrowed her eyes. “Hey! That was mine.”
“Not anymore.”
They ended up feeding each other bites between laughter, sipping coffee with their legs tangled beneath the tray, surrounded by soft sheets and the warmth of morning light. Min-ho kept looking at her like she was the only thing in the world, and every time he did, Kitty’s chest filled with happiness, the type of happiness you only get when you are with someone you love.
---
The van rolled out of the hotel driveway a little past noon, sunlight bouncing off the windshield as the city buzzed around them. Kitty sat nestled between Min-ho and Yuri in the middle row, the warm press of Min-ho’s thigh brushing hers every time they hit a bump.
Q was in the passenger seat, scrolling through his phone with intense focus.
“I’m not being dramatic,” he announced. “But the playlist is the most important decision of the day.”
“Q, you say that every time you open spotify,” Yuri muttered, leaning her head back. She was wearing oversized sunglasses and had a hand draped dramatically across her forehead like she’d just barely made it to the van in time.
“I stand by it every time,” Q said, unfazed.
The van was alive with quiet laughter and the hum of music, a happy energy. Everyone was buzzing, even Dae, who kept double-checking his lyrics under his breath. Kitty watched him, remembering the way his hand trembled the first time he performed on stage—and how steady it had become ever since Eunice joined him.
They pulled up to the venue a few minutes later, staff already waiting to escort them through the back entrance. Fans were gathered near the front gates, their excited chatter drifting through the
Inside, the backstage area was a maze of corridors and doors. Joon Ho and Eunji had already slipped into their separate dressing room, and the rest of the group was ushered into another space meant just for Dae and Eunice.
It wasn’t very big—one long mirror lined with lightbulbs, a counter cluttered with brushes, palettes, and hair tools, and a rack of carefully selected stage outfits.
Kitty had just perched on the edge of the couch when Eunice turned, eyeing the space.
“Okay, there is no way we’re letting this room go to waste,” she said, already reaching for a curling wand. “We’re all dressing up. Hair. Makeup. Accessories. The whole deal.”
Yuri raised her eyebrows but didn’t object. “I mean, I was going to do my makeup in the bathroom, but I’m not complaining.”
Q set his bag down on the counter. “I love it here.”
Kitty smiled, already caught up in the excitement as everyone began claiming spots around the mirror. Min-ho leaned back against the wall, arms crossed, clearly amused.
“You’re not joining us?” Kitty asked.
“Already flawless,” he said, deadpan, but the twitch of his mouth gave him away. “I’ll let you all do your thing.”
Kitty stood by the rack, running her fingers over the hangers before selecting a soft, structured dress in a dusty rose shade. It had sheer sleeves, a square neckline, and a fitted bodice that flared out into a dreamy skirt.
“Hey Eunice - do you mind if I try this on?” She said holding up the dress.
Eunice stopped her contouring to face her, “Omg. Please wear that Kitty.”
Kitty smiled and slipped behind a divider to change, brushing out her hair and sliding on a pair of low heels. When she stepped out the room went silent.
Min-ho looked up, and everything else fell away.
His jaw actually dropped. “Wait. Wait.”
Kitty laughed, cheeks flushing as she smoothed the dress down. “Too much?”
“You look really good,” he said, already walking toward her. His hands found her waist, fingers skimming the fabric. “You look…” He blinked. “You’re unreal.”
Dae, already half-dressed in his stage outfit, leaned against the counter and raised a brow. “So… Kitty. You tell your dad about this yet?” He gestured between her and Min-ho.
Kitty bit her lip, glancing up at Min-ho before answering. “Not yet. I think I’m going to wait until we’re in LA. I’d rather tell him in person.”
Min-ho nodded, his hand still resting at the small of her back.
Yuri smirked as she touched up her lip gloss in the mirror. “Translation: she’s waiting until she’s home so her dad doesn’t call Moon Entertainment and demand separate rooms.”
“I mean, she’s not wrong,” Q added, “If I had a daughter and Min-ho was her roommate, I’d have a full-blown crisis.”
Min-ho raised both eyebrows. “Thanks?”
As the final touches were added, a knock came at the door. A crew member peeked inside. “They’re starting to let people into the venue. If you're heading to your seats, we’ll escort you in five.”
Eunice adjusted the last bobby pin in her hair, then turned to Dae. “You ready?”
He nodded, nerves and excitement flickering across his face. “Yeah. Yeah, I’m ready.”
Kitty slipped her hand into Min-ho’s as the group stepped out of the dressing room, leaving Dae and Eunice behind to warm up. The hallway buzzed with staff and last-minute checks, the energy rising with every step they took.
They followed the crew member through a service hallway, passing equipment cases and heavy black curtains until they reached a private entrance leading to the audience.
Unlike some venues they’d been to, this one didn’t have a VIP balcony or roped-off section. Their seats were tucked into the main crowd—close enough to see everything, but not separated from the pulse of the fans. It made the whole thing feel more electric, more real.
As they walked through the aisle to their row, people turned to stare. A few fans recognized Yuri right away—one even gasped and nudged her friend. Another whispered something and pointed toward Min-ho.
Kitty felt eyes shift toward her, too.
She hesitated, but Min-ho didn’t. He kept her hand in his and guided her to their seats like none of it mattered. Like they were just any couple, here to enjoy a concert.
The lights dimmed slightly as a pre-show playlist played over the speakers. Min-ho let go of her hand only to drape his arm casually around her shoulders. She leaned into him, feeling the weight of his jacket and the steady rhythm of his breathing. It felt grounding, being here like this. Public, but wrapped up in something private.
“You okay?” he murmured.
Kitty nodded. “Just a little weird being recognized like that.”
Min-ho glanced around, then leaned in. “Let them look. You’re with me, remember?”
She rolled her eyes, but a smile tugged at the corner of her lips. “That was so cocky.”
Before he could respond, the lights flickered once more—and then a spotlight cut across the stage as the opening beats of the show echoed through the venue.
A huge cheer erupted from the crowd, and Kitty instinctively reached for Min-ho’s hand again. The music swelled, the stage lights burst to life—and out stepped Dae and Eunice, beaming as they took their mics.
Dae’s voice cut through the noise. “Hello, Thailand!” he shouted in Korean, followed by a greeting in Thai that got a roar from the crowd. “We’re so excited to be here tonight.”
"LET'S GO, DAE!" Q screamed at the top of his lungs, waving his arms wildly.
Kitty laughed so hard she had to clutch Min-ho's arm for balance. Min-ho was laughing too, a wide, carefree smile lighting up his whole face.
Dae and Eunice jumped right into their first song—a high-energy, feel-good track that had the whole crowd bouncing.
Q whooped and grabbed Yuri’s hand, dragging her into a ridiculous dance that made half the people around them laugh.
“C’mon, babe!” she shouted over the music, laughing.
Min-ho groaned playfully but let her tug him up. "You’re going to kill me, aren’t you?"
Kitty spun around, still holding onto Min-ho, who was at first just awkwardly bopping—but when Kitty started twirling dramatically, he finally gave in, laughing and spinning her under his arm.
She stumbled into his chest, and he caught her easily, his grin so wide it made her heart flip.
“You’re ridiculous," he said, out of breath.
“You love it,” she teased.
He didn’t even hesitate. "Yeah, I do."
After a few more high-energy songs, Dae and Eunice took their final bows, their faces flushed with happiness. The crowd gave them a thunderous send-off, chants of their names echoing through the venue.
“THEY KILLED IT,” Q yelled, throwing his arms around Yuri and Kitty at the same time.
Yuri wrinkled her nose. “You’re sweaty.”
“So are you!” he shot back.
Kitty leaned against Min-ho, beaming. "They were so good."
Min-ho smiled down at her. “They really were.”
A beat of quiet anticipation settled over the crowd. And then—
The lights went out.
The arena plunged into darkness, and thousands of tiny phone flashlights lit up the space like stars.
A deep, rhythmic beat started. The screen behind the stage flickered to life, revealing Joon Ho’s silhouette.
The crowd screamed so loudly Kitty swore the ground shook.
The beat built, layer after layer, until—
Boom. The stage exploded into light, and Joon Ho strode out.
Min-ho scoffed, “It’s like he thinks he’s hotter than me or something.”
The opening number was an absolute banger—heavy bass, lasers slicing the air, dancers flying across the stage. Joon Ho’s voice was powerful, smooth, and perfectly in command.
Kitty and Yuri jumped along to the beat, while Q threw his head back and sang at the top of his lungs. Even Min-ho was nodding along, the corner of his mouth lifted in an easy smile.
Between songs, Joon Ho bantered with the crowd, cracking jokes and pulling off quick, cheeky smiles that made the audience lose their minds.
Joon Ho shifted into a slower set next, singing a breathtaking ballad under soft, twinkling lights. Kitty found herself swaying without realizing it, Min-ho’s arms winding naturally around her waist as they moved in time to the music.
Kitty leaned back against him, looking up at the stage through shining eyes.
"I wish this night could last forever," she whispered.
Min-ho rested his chin lightly on top of her head, his voice low and certain in her ear. "It kind of already does. Every time I’m with you."
Kitty closed her eyes for a moment, letting herself soak it all in—the music, the magic, and most of all, the boy who loved her like she was the best thing that had ever happened to him.
Because she was.
The last note rang out, fireworks lit up the night sky again, and the crowd roared so loud it shook Kitty’s chest.
Kitty and Min-ho stood arm-in-arm, breathless from singing and cheering through the whole set. Q and Yuri were still waving their arms wildly.
As the house lights came up, the four of them joined the stream of fans moving toward the backstage area, their special passes flashing proudly from lanyards around their necks.
"That was insane," Q said, pulling Kitty into a quick, sweaty hug as they walked. "I can't believe how good Dae and Eunice were!"
"And Joon Ho," Yuri said, "He’s like... not human."
Min-ho laughed. "Okay now that’s an exaggeration.”
They found Dae and Eunice first just outside the green room. Dae's face lit up the second he saw them.
"YOU GUYS!" Dae shouted, throwing his arms out.
Kitty tackled him in a hug first, laughing. "You were amazing, Dae! Seriously, so good!"
"You think?" Dae said, pulling back with wide eyes.
"Of course!" Yuri said, smiling warmly. "You and Eunice killed it."
Eunice beamed, reaching for Dae's hand and squeezing it tight. "Thank you," she said shyly.
Min-ho clapped Dae on the back. "I'm proud of you, man."
Dae looked like he might actually cry from happiness, but then Joon Ho came barreling down the hallway, all sweat and glitter, yelling, "GROUP HUG!" and crashing into all of them.
They stumbled into a giant, laughing mess of hugs, arms and shoulders bumping together as everyone shouted compliments at each other.
"You were amazing!"
"I can't feel my legs!"
"That one note—you killed it!"
Eunji stood back protecting her pregnant belly, but still had a huge grin on her face. “This deserves to be documented.” She said as she pulled out her phone to take a picture.
Mr. Moon appeared a second later, beaming like a proud dad. "Alright, team," he said. "Let’s get you all back to the hotel safely. We have another flight tomorrow."
Notes:
HEY GUYS!!!!!!!! I have missed writing this story so much omg, this chapter draft has been sitting in my drive for WEEKS. So - as most of you know I had the norovirus, and I already have tons of health problems to begin with so it affected me so bad I had to be hospitalized - RIGHT AFTER MY MOM GOT OUT OF THE HOSPITAL! When I finally started to recover a bit I had missed so much school and had so many things going on. I was failing literally all my classes, and I’m about to graduate, so I had to spend a lot of time fixing that problem. Not to mention I am a dancer and it’s right in the middle of my senior year competition season, so I haven’t slept more than 4 hours a night for about a month now. Honestly there’s a lot more that’s been going on that’s just made it impossible for me to work on this story, and I’m so sorry to all of you that have been waiting for this chapter, I’m going to try really hard to get my life under control and actually start doing things I want to do, such as writing this!
Also I’m sorry if this isn’t my best work in the world, I literally wrote it backstage at a dance competition yesterday. AND the curse of the fanfic writers is totally real, I didn’t believe it but omg yes it is real.
Chapter 27: Fever
Chapter Text
Min-ho rested his forehead against the van window, watching the sunrise of Jakarta blur by in warm streaks of gold. The air was thick and humid, the kind that clung to your skin, but his own exhaustion was not his priority.
Kitty lay with her cheek pressed to his chest, knees tucked up as she slept. She hadn’t stirred once since they landed. He’d practically carried her off the plane and into the van, careful not to wake her.
He brushed her hair back softly, kissing her forehead. Her skin was warm under his lips, and he smiled faintly before leaning his head back. He tried to close his eyes, but his attempt was quickly interrupted.
“Woah,” Joon Ho leaned forward from the seat behind them, smirking as he looked at the way Kitty was wrapped around Min-ho. “Didn’t know my brother had a soft side.”
Min-ho lifted a hand and quickly covered Kitty’s ear, whispering, “Hey, be quiet, she’s tired.”
Joon Ho held up his hands in surrender. “Okay, okay. I’ll leave the lovebirds alone.”
---
Min-ho gently shook Kitty’s arm as the van pulled into a gravel driveway. “Hey, pretty girl,” he whispered against her hair. “We’re here.”
Kitty groaned softly, scrunching her face as she shifted in his arms. “I wanna go back to sleep.”
Dae laughed from up front. “You can sleep when the tour ends.”
“I’m taking a nap as soon as we get inside,” Eunice mumbled, half-asleep herself.
The Airbnb cabin nestled in the quieter hills just outside the city was more charming than Min-ho had expected. Wood-paneled walls gave it a rustic vibe, and the wide living room had a big cozy couch facing a fireplace, with stacks of board games underneath the coffee table.
They divided the rooms quickly—Dae and Eunice took the one at the back, Joon Ho and Eunji took the room near the front door, and Min-ho and Kitty were left with the downstairs suite in the basement.
Min-ho carried both their bags down the creaky wooden steps, which opened into a large space with shelves of collectibles, a dart board, and even a pool table.
“Woah,” Kitty said, spinning slowly. “I wish we were staying here longer.”
Min-ho gave her a small smile. “I’ll bring you back someday.”
He unlocked the door to their room and set the bags down. “I’ll let Joon Ho know we’re napping before dinner, okay?”
Kitty nodded, yawning. “We both need it.”
They changed into comfy clothes and crawled into the soft bed, Kitty pressing herself into Min-ho’s chest, her hand resting gently over his heart.
“You should probably text Q and Yuri that we made it,” she murmured. “They were bummed they couldn’t come.”
“Already did,” Min-ho said, brushing her arm with his thumb. “Go to sleep, my love.”
---
Kitty woke up to her alarm buzzing faintly at 6 p.m. The first thing she noticed was the heat radiating from Min-ho beside her.
He was burning up.
Her brows furrowed as she sat up, brushing sweat-damp hair from his forehead. “Babe,” she whispered, shaking him gently. “Wake up.”
He blinked slowly, eyes glassy but smiling. “Hey, pretty girl.”
Kitty frowned. “You feel really warm. Are you okay?”
Min-ho shook his head faintly. “It’s just the thermal sheets. I’ll be fine after some water.”
He sat up with a deep breath, brushing off her concern with a soft kiss to her shoulder.
Upstairs, the group had gathered in the living room, eating takeout on the floor and tossing around ideas for Eunji’s baby shower in Singapore.
“I think we should do pastel balloons and floral centerpieces,” Eunice said, gesturing wildly with a half-eaten spring roll in hand.
“Do you think we can get those baby-themed cupcakes?” Joon Ho added, licking sauce off his fingers.
“I actually saw something online I thought was cute. We could get a baker to put food coloring in a cake, and use it as our gender reveal.” Eunji suggested.
“OMG, that’s such a cute idea, don’t you think so Dae?” Eunice was pracitally shaking with excitement.
“Do I still get to eat the cake after you cut it?” Dae asked as he set down his empty noodle container.
Joon Ho laughed, “I don’t think you will be hungry for a while after how much you are eating tonight.”
Kitty curled against Min-ho on the couch, trying not to worry as she watched him from the corner of her eye. He was quieter than usual, eyes drooping slightly, and though he offered lazy smiles, she could tell he was still off.
“You okay?” she whispered in his ear.
Min-ho nodded. “Just tired from the flight. I’m okay.”
Still, as the night wore on, he leaned heavier into her side, and Kitty wrapped her arm around him protectively. The group watched a movie next, tossing popcorn, arguing over characters, and laughing loudly, but Min-ho didn’t say much. His hand stayed in Kitty’s, fingers limp.
Back in their room, after the others had gone to bed, Kitty changed into an oversized T-shirt and shorts and curled under the covers, watching Min-ho as he dried his damp hair with a towel.
She chewed her lip for a moment, trying to find the courage to ask him what had been on her mind. “Can I ask you something?”
Min-ho glanced over with a soft smile, “Always.”
Kitty hesitated, then met his gaze. “Do you… ever think about having kids?”
He froze for half a second, the question lingering in the air between them. Then he sat down beside her.
“I used to say no,” he admitted. “I was always scared that I would end up like my parents.”
Kitty reached out, brushing her fingers along his knee.
“But lately…” He looked at her with a soft look in his eyes. “Lately, I’ve started to imagine it.”
Kitty’s breath caught in her throat.
Min-ho leaned in, his hand gently cupping her cheek. “Do you ever think about it?”
Kitty reflected back on her childhood, “I didn’t much, growing up, I didn’t know what it was like to grow up with a mom, so I didn’t think I would be too good at it.”
Min-ho stroked her hair back behind her ear, “That’s not true, you’d be the best mom in the world.” He leaned forward, pressing a kiss right on the tip of her nose.
Kitty looked up at him, her eyes glazed over. Without hesitating, she wrapped her arms around his neck, and pulled herself on top of him to straddle his legs.
Min-ho’s breath hitched, “Oh-”.
Anticipation built as their breaths intertwined, the pressure of their chests together heightening the moment. Kitty felt the rapid, uneven beat of Min-ho’s heart and chuckled, aware of the power she held over him. Their lips met in a tentative brush, a touch that sent shivers down Min-ho’s back. Then, in silent agreement, the kiss deepened.
Min-ho grabbed her waist, his fingers pressing into the edges of her hips. Kitty’s hands trailed down from his neck to find the ends of his shirt, and slid her hands underneath it.
Min-ho let out a sigh against her, his hands accidentally sliding lower than her hips.
He broke apart from her lips, taking his hands off of her. “I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to.” He said breathlessly.
Kitty pulled him back in, kissing the corner of his mouth. She grabbed Min-ho’s hand and placed it back where it was. “Don’t say sorry.”
Min-ho looked at her eyes to make sure she was okay with this. Immediately reassured by the smile that played on Kitty’s face, he pushed her hips forward on top of him before going back to her lips.
Kitty groaned softly. Encouraged, he trailed down the edge of her jaw, down to her neck before finding her collarbone.
Kitty pulled at his shirt, as she rocked back into his touch. Min-ho pulled away from her collarbone for just a second. “Take it off.”
She hesitated for just a second before tugging the shirt up, he leaned back for just a moment to let it pass over his head.
Kitty barely had time to throw the shirt behind them before Min-ho was on her again, his lips crashing against hers, kissing her like he was starved for her taste. It was deep and demanding, his hands gripping her waist tightly as if afraid she might disappear.
His left hand stayed firmly against her hip, while his right hand slid down her spine, finding the subtle curve of her lower back, his thumb lightly tracing the edge of her jeans.
With a deliberate movement, he increased the pressure, his body leaning into hers. Then, with a fluid shift of weight, he urged her to turn, rotating until she lay on her back, her gaze meeting his. He followed her down, his arms bracing on either side of her as he settled above her, their bodies aligning perfectly.
She clutched at his shoulders, pulling him down to her. She arched into him as he moved down, kissing just above the neckline of her shirt. Her hands roamed down his back, tracing the shape of every muscle, the tension in his shoulders, the line of his spine…
And then she paused.
He was burning up. Not just warm from their closeness, but hot. Too hot.
Kitty’s heart sank.
She pulled back gently, bringing a hand up to his cheek. His skin was flushed and damp with sweat, and his breathing had gone uneven.
“Min-ho,” she said softly, brushing his hair off his forehead. “You’re sweating.”
“I’m fine,” he mumbled, trying to lean down to kiss her again, but she pressed her hand against his chest to stop him.
“No, you’re not. You’re overheating. I can feel it.”
He closed his eyes with a sigh, resting his forehead against her shoulder. “I didn’t want to ruin this.”
“You didn’t ruin anything,” she whispered, stroking his back gently. “But you’re sick, babe. You need to rest.”
He hovered above her for a moment longer before letting his weight fall gently beside her, his arm curling around her waist like he couldn’t bear to let her go just yet.
“I hate this,” he murmured.
“I know,” Kitty said, kissing his temple. “Me too. But we have time, okay? You’re not allowed to pass out on me just because you were trying to kiss me into oblivion.”
He chuckled softly, though it quickly faded into another sigh.
Kitty shifted closer and tugged the blanket over both of them, letting him pull her against his chest again. She rested her head beneath his chin, one hand smoothing up and down his back.
Min-ho’s breathing gradually slowed, and soon, his fingers stilled against her hip.
Kitty stayed awake a little longer, her thoughts spinning, worry fighting with the way her chest still fluttered.
Eventually, sleep pulled them both under.
---
Kitty blinked awake slowly, the sheets were warm, tangled around her legs, and Min-ho’s arm lay heavy across her waist. His chest rose and fell gently behind her, his breath brushing her shoulder. Carefully, she turned over to face him.
He was still sleeping, hair tousled, lips slightly parted.
She placed the back of her hand to his forehead, holding her breath.
Still warm, but not like last night. The searing heat had dulled, turning into a manageable warmth. Relief washed over her as she watched him stir faintly under her touch.
“You’re staring at me again,” he murmured, voice rough and groggy.
Kitty smiled. “Just checking if you're still alive.”
Min-ho cracked one eye open, a lazy grin tugging at his lips. “Can’t get rid of me that easily.”
She leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to his cheek. “Your fever’s gone down a little.”
“Still feel like I got trampled by Joon Ho’s backup dancers,” he muttered, shifting closer. “But I’m okay. Thanks to you.”
Kitty tucked her face into the crook of his neck, voice muffled. “You scared me yesterday.”
His hand found her hair, threading through it gently. “I know. I’m sorry. But I’m really okay now.”
She pulled back to look at him properly, brushing his hair from his forehead. “You sure?”
Min-ho nodded, lips brushing her forehead. “Let’s go find some breakfast before I drag you back under the covers.”
Kitty giggled and rolled away to sit up. “You better put a shirt on, Joon Ho will never let it go if you don’t.”
He groaned dramatically, “I know you like it though.”
Kitty turned away from him, “Maybe” she whispered before she stepped into the bathroom.
---
Upstairs the group was already gathered around a long table.
“Hey guys! Mr.Moon ordered food, come eat.” Eunice smiled, holding up a platter of pastries.
Eunji’s eyes flicked to Kitty, and covered her mouth to suppress her laughter.
“What’s so funny?” Kitty asked, puzzled.
“So… what’s that on your collarbone Kitty?” Eunji pointed at her.
Kitty froze, eyes widening. “What—?”
Eunice leaned in. “Oh my god. That’s totally a bruise.”
Dae nearly spit out his juice. “Wait. What?!”
Joon Ho choked on a piece of pineapple. “Okay! That’s enough food for me this morning! I do not need all the details of my brother’s romance.”
Kitty covered the mark with her hand, face flaming. “It’s not what it looks like-”
“Oh, it’s exactly what it looks like,” Eunice said, wiggling her eyebrows.
Min-ho just looked smug as he bit into a mango slice, completely unbothered.
“Oh my God,” Dae muttered under her breath, laughing. “You two need to invest in scarves.”
Despite the teasing, the atmosphere was light and warm. Laughter filled the table, and Kitty found herself smiling as Min-ho’s fingers brushed against hers under the table.
---
Later that afternoon, the group piled into a couple of vans heading toward the concert venue. The city blurred past the windows in a flurry of neon signs, temple rooftops, and motorbikes weaving through traffic.
At the entrance to the arena, fans stood around in coordinated outfits, flashing signs with Joon Ho’s face plastered on it, music pulsing faintly from inside.
Kitty pulled Eunice into a quick hug. “Go break hearts.”
Eunice smirked. “Obviously.”
Min-ho turned to Dae and grinned. “Don’t embarrass yourself.”
Dae flashed him a look of pure annoyance.
As the others headed backstage, Min-ho took Kitty’s hand and led her toward the VIP section. It wasn’t roped off like other venues, just a slightly elevated row of cushioned seats. They settled in as the lights began to dim and the crowd erupted into cheers.
Eunice and Dae stepped onto the stage.
Kitty stood and clapped, turning to Min-ho—and froze.
He was swaying slightly, one hand gripping the railing beside him.
“Min-ho?” she asked quickly, putting a hand on his back. “Hey, are you okay?”
He tried to nod, but it was sluggish. “Just a little dizzy…”
His skin burned beneath her touch, hotter than this morning. Much hotter.
“Oh no,” she whispered. “Your fever’s back.”
She helped him sit down gently, glancing around. A cooler for performers’ water bottles stood nearby at the edge of the section. Kitty darted over, grabbing the coldest one she could find, and hurried back.
“Here,” she said urgently, unscrewing the cap. She pressed the bottle against his neck, watching his eyes flutter closed.
“Min-ho? Hey, look at me.”
He didn’t respond.
Panic surged in her chest. He was barely responsive now, slouched against the seat, skin flushed.
“Min-ho. Babe, come on, talk to me please.”
The music faded from her awareness, the stage lights a blur in the distance. All she could see was him, too hot, his breathing uneven. She reached for her phone, fingers trembling.
Notes:
HI POOKS!!!!!! I'm finally starting to get my life together! I hope you guys enjoy this update - I tried really hard with the spicy stuff but I'm not that good so if you guys have any suggestions I am totally open, also hope you enjoy the clifhangerrrrrr!!!!! Thank you for all your support - love you guys!
Chapter 28: Emergency
Chapter Text
Kitty’s heart pounded in her ears as she knelt in front of Min-ho, his skin clammy under her fingers. His eyes were half-lidded, barely focused, his body swaying in his seat even as she braced him upright.
“Min-ho, hey, babe, look at me,” she whispered urgently, cupping his cheek. “Can you hear me?”
He gave the faintest nod, but his head lolled, and she could feel the heat rolling off of him like steam.
Kitty fumbled for her phone with one hand, gripping his knee with the other like it might anchor him there with her. She scrolled with shaking fingers, tapped Eunji’s contact, and pressed it to her ear.
“Kitty? What’s—”
“Eunji, I need help. Now,” Kitty said, her voice high and tight. “Min-ho’s not okay. His fever’s worse, he’s not talking, he’s barely even conscious. Please get Mr. Moon and find someone medical. We’re in the VIP section, on the left side, near the front.”
There was a pause on the other end, then Eunji’s voice shifted immediately.
“Don’t move. We’re coming now.”
The call ended, and Kitty lowered her phone with a shaky breath. She turned back to Min-ho, brushing the hair from his forehead.
“You’re okay, Min-ho. You’re going to be okay. Just stay with me, alright?”
But his head lolled slightly to the side, his grip on her hand going slack.
“No, no—hey. Come on,” she whispered, gripping his hand tighter as her throat burned.
Moments later, she heard footsteps pounding up the aisle. Kitty turned, relief crashing through her as Eunji, Mr. Moon, and a uniformed paramedic came into view.
“There,” Eunji pointed, leading them over. The paramedic immediately crouched beside Min-ho and began checking his vitals.
“Skin’s flushed. Pulse is too fast,” he muttered, working quickly. “He’s dehydrated. Fever dangerously high. He needs to be transported.”
Kitty looked up at Mr. Moon, who was watching Min-ho with a stricken expression. His jaw tightened.
“I’ll go with him,” Mr. Moon said, stepping forward instinctively.
But then, remembering where they were, he hesitated. The booming sound of the music from the stage was a grim reminder: the concert was still going. Thousands of fans. Coordinated cues. Live broadcasts.
Kitty caught the internal conflict in his eyes before he even said it.
“You can’t leave,” she said quietly.
He glanced at her, guilt shadowing his expression. “Not yet. Dae and Eunice end in fifteen minutes. Joon Ho hasn’t even gone on. But I’ll be at the hospital as soon as the show ends.”
“I’ll go with her,” Eunji said quickly, turning to Kitty. “You shouldn’t be alone.”
But Kitty shook her head immediately, her grip on Min-ho’s hand still tight.
“Eunji, you’re pregnant. Please. I can handle this.”
Eunji hesitated, but nodded, her face torn between worry and agreement.
The second paramedic arrived with the gurney, and the team carefully helped Min-ho onto it. He didn’t even flinch as they secured the straps. Kitty walked beside them as they moved quickly toward the tunnel entrance.
“Miss, you’re riding with us?” the paramedic asked.
“Yes,” Kitty said instantly, climbing into the back of the ambulance without hesitation.
Before the doors closed, Mr. Moon called after her. “Keep your phone on. We’ll be there as soon as we can.”
Kitty gave a quick nod and a murmured “okay,” but her eyes were already on Min-ho. His lashes were damp with sweat, and his chest rose and fell in shallow, uneven breaths.
And then they were gone, the ambulance doors slamming shut behind them as sirens pierced the Jarkata night.
---
The fluorescent lights of the ER lit up the dark parking lot as the ambulance doors swung open.
Kitty stepped out immediately, her boots hitting the pavement harder than expected, her legs were still shaking.
“Right this way,” one of the medics said as they wheeled Min-ho in through the automatic glass doors. Nurses were already waiting.
Kitty stayed close, matching their pace as they brought him through a maze of hallways and into a curtained-off room. A nurse peeled back Min-ho’s soaked shirt, and another began placing monitors on his chest.
“Temperature’s climbing—he’s at 40.2°C,” one of them said in Bahasa Indonesia, then turned to Kitty in English. “That’s over 104 Fahrenheit.”
Kitty’s heart sank. That was the kind of fever that could cause damage.
An IV drip was inserted quickly into his arm, cool fluids beginning to flow into his overheated body. A nurse added a dose of antipyretic medication and then moved to place a damp cloth across his forehead.
Kitty stood just inside the curtain, watching every movement. Min-ho hadn’t stirred at all.
He was so still.
A doctor entered briskly, clipboard in hand, her expression calm but focused. “You’re with the patient?”
“Yes,” Kitty said. “He’s—he’s my boyfriend.”
The doctor nodded. “We ran a rapid panel based on his vitals. He’s fighting a viral infection, most likely something he picked up recently while traveling. Based on his labs and symptoms, severe fever, dehydration, fatigue, I’d say it’s a mix of the virus and overexertion. His body just couldn’t keep up.”
Kitty’s breath caught. “Is he going to be okay?”
“He will,” the doctor said firmly, her tone reassuring. “But he needs rest. Fluids. No movement, no flights, no late nights or high energy anything for a few days. His system is completely overloaded, jet lag, heat exposure, adrenaline spikes, dehydration… it’s a storm.”
Kitty nodded, her fingers fidgeting with the hem of her shirt. “Can I stay with him?”
“Of course. We’ll keep him overnight for monitoring. He should respond to the treatment soon. You did the right thing bringing him in when you did.”
Kitty stepped closer to the hospital bed, her heart aching as she looked down at him. His hair was damp with sweat, cheeks flushed unnaturally red. She brushed a hand gently over his arm.
“You scared me,” she whispered. “You don’t get to do that again, okay?”
A few hours passed in a blur of machines beeping softly, nurses coming in to check vitals, and Kitty refusing to leave Min-ho’s side. She sat curled in the chair next to him, one hand holding his, the other gripping her phone, waiting.
Finally, the door swung open.
Dae, Eunice, Joon Ho, Eunji, and Mr. Moon filed into the room, their expressions tight with concern.
“How is he?” Dae asked quietly, eyes immediately landing on Min-ho.
Kitty stood up, her body stiff from hours in the same position. “He’s stable. They said it’s some viral thing, plus exhaustion from everything. He’s completely burned out.”
Mr. Moon nodded solemnly. “I was afraid of this. The schedule’s been brutal, and I should’ve caught the signs sooner.”
“It’s not your fault,” Kitty said gently. “He didn’t tell anyone how bad he felt. He probably didn’t want to miss anything.”
“Well, he’s going to miss the flight tomorrow,” Joon Ho said, crossing his arms. “No way we’re dragging him onto a plane like this.”
Mr. Moon rubbed his temple. “Agreed. We’ll have to split the team. Everyone else flies out tomorrow morning to set up in Singapore. Kitty, you and Min-ho will stay here until he’s strong enough to travel. I’ll have one of our assistants stay behind to help you both.”
Joon Ho let out a sigh. “That means we’ll have to move the baby shower.”
Kitty frowned. “Wait, it’s in three days, right?”
“Yeah. Friday,” Eunji confirmed.
Kitty looked down at Min-ho. “I think he’ll be well enough by then. We can fly out Thursday night. That gives him time to rest.”
Mr. Moon nodded. “As long as the doctor clears him, we’ll keep the plan.”
The group lingered for a while longer, standing around the bed, trying to encourage one another. Eunice left a bag of snacks and juice on the windowsill. Dae gently placed his hand on Kitty’s shoulder and gave her a quiet smile.
“We’ve got everything handled for now. You just stay with him.”
Eventually, they left to let her rest, promising to return in the morning. The room was quiet again, dimly lit, just the two of them.
Kitty sat back in the chair, tugging the blanket tighter around Min-ho’s body. His fever was still high, but not as alarming as earlier. The IV drip was steadily working, the beeping of the monitor more rhythmic now.
Then, just as her eyes were beginning to drift shut,
A small sound. A rustle of sheets.
She looked up.
Min-ho’s lashes fluttered slightly, his brow furrowing as he turned his head slowly toward her.
“Kitty?” His voice was hoarse. Barely audible.
Her heart practically leapt from her chest.
“I’m here,” she said instantly, leaning closer and brushing his hair back. “Hey, you’re okay. You’re in the hospital, but you’re okay.”
His eyes were heavy, but they found hers and held there.
“What happened?” he murmured.
“You passed out,” she said with a soft laugh that cracked under the weight of emotion. “You scared the hell out of me.”
“I’m sorry.” His hand twitched, and she took it quickly.
“Don’t be sorry. Just focus on getting better.”
“I hate hospitals,” he mumbled, eyes closing again.
“I know,” she said softly, running her thumb along his knuckles. “But I’m here. I’m not going anywhere.”
He gave the faintest smile before slipping back into sleep.
---
Kitty blinked awake in the stiff vinyl chair beside Min-ho’s bed, her body aching from a night of half-sleep. But her hand was still in his, and that was all that mattered.
She sat up slowly, rubbing her eyes, then glanced at the monitors.
His fever had gone down.
The flush in his cheeks had faded, and his breathing was even. The IV bag beside him was nearly empty, and the soft rhythm of the machines was steady.
Min-ho stirred under the thin blanket, brow furrowing slightly before his eyes fluttered open.
“Hey,” Kitty said, her voice a husky whisper. She leaned forward, brushing a hand gently over his hair. “How are we feeling?”
He blinked at her, groggy and confused. “Did we… miss the concert?”
She laughed softly. “You were half dead last night, and you are worried about that?”
The doctor came in soon after, checking his vitals and confirming that the fever had broken. “We’ll discharge him this morning,” she said. “But he needs to continue resting for the next few days. Lots of fluids, no flights until Thursday at the earliest.”
Kitty nodded quickly. “We’ll take care of him. I promise.”
By late morning, Min-ho was changed into soft sweats from the bag Eunji left behind. His steps were unsteady at first, but with her hand in his and her arm tucked around his waist, they made it down the hallway slowly together.
“You’re sure you’re okay to leave?” she asked as they walked toward the exit.
“I’d be more okay if I never had to see a hospital again,” he muttered.
Kitty shot him a knowing look. “You’ll be okay if you eat something, drink water, and don’t try to act like you’re invincible.”
He gave her a small glance, then murmured, “I wasn’t trying to be invincible.”
Kitty stopped, turning to face him just before they reached the sliding glass doors.
“I know,” she said quietly. “But you don’t have to carry everything by yourself. I’m here. You don’t need to push through pain just to protect everyone else.”
She swallowed, fighting tears. “You scared me.”
“I’m sorry.”
They stood there for a second, still and quiet, before Min-ho leaned forward and pressed a soft kiss to her forehead. He rested his head there for a moment longer, like he was soaking her in.
“Let’s go home,” he whispered.
A car arranged by Mr. Moon was already waiting outside. Kitty helped Min-ho into the back seat, settling beside him as he leaned heavily against her shoulder.
By the time they reached the Airbnb, Min-ho had nearly fallen asleep again. Kitty helped him up the steps and into the living room, guiding him gently to the couch.
“You’re not going to make me go to bed?” he murmured, slurring slightly.
“You are going to bed,” she said, slipping off his shoes and nudging his legs up onto the cushions. “I’m just giving you a few minutes to pretend you’re tough before I tuck you in like the baby you are.”
He cracked a weak smile, then closed his eyes.
Kitty sat beside him, her hand resting on his chest.
And for the first time in over 24 hours, it felt like the panic had passed.
Notes: Heeeeyyyyy, look at me, two chapters in one day!!!! Didn't want to leave you guys on too much of a clifhanger! I hope you all are having a great day :))))
Chapter 29: Bed Rest
Chapter Text
Tuesday morning light spilled through the soft curtains of the living room. Kitty unburried her neck from the crack in the couch cushions and tried to blink the sleep from her eyes.
Laid curled up beside her with his head in her lap was Minho, sleeping soundly.
Kitty smiled softly as she stroked the stray hairs back from his forehead and placed her palm on it.
Still no fever but his skin remained clamy and his lips were still pale.
Kitty remained still for the next little while enjoying the peace. As much as she enjoyed the whirlwind of the tour, it was nice to rest and not have to run off to a packed stadium for a concert.
The sound of a soft knock at the door interrupted her thoughts.
She gently lifted Minhos head and shifted a pillow beneath it to go answer the door.
It was the assistant Young Moon had left behind with Kitty and Min-ho.
"Good morning Miss. Covey, I brought breakfast and food for the day for you and Mr. Moon, and his father is asking how he's doing."
Kitty took the bags of food the assistant was holding out. "Thank you, he's doing okay - still no fever, but he is still sleeping, I'll make sure to text his dad when he wakes up."
The assistant nodded, "Well I will be in my cabin, call right away if you need anything at all."
Kitty smiled, "Of course, will do."
She shut the door and turned to see Minho still sleeping soundly, his throw blanket wrapped around him.
She walked into the kitchen and set the grocery bags down and surveyed their contents.
One bag had warm breakfast sandwiches, bottled juice and some pastries, and the other was filled of instant noodles, ready to eat frozen meals, and an assortment of snacks.
She put the meals in the refrigerator and began to lay out the breakfast food on a tray until she heard Minho calling.
"Kitty? Where did you go?"
Kitty stepped out from behind the kitchen counter and walked over to the couch, "I'm right here" she said as she stroked Minhos hair.
Minho took his hands up to grab her waist and pull her closer till his head rested on her stomach. "I missed you." He said as he hugged her.
Kitty giggled, "I was only gone for five minutes, Caleb dropped off breakfast, I've already laid it out, let me go get it."
Minho reluctantantly let her go, "Fine, but only because I'm hungry."
Kitty walked over and grabbed the food tray to bring it back to the coffee table, and Minho started eating a blueberry muffin.
"How are you feeling babe?" Kitty studied Minhos face, she knew he loved her, but he had a bad habit of lying when it came to his own personal needs.
Minho sighed, "To be honest, I feel like someone dropped a building on my head. I can tell the medicine is working, but it's making me drowsy and my muscles are aching."
He set his muffin down and turned to face Kitty, "But I do feel better than yesterday, and I promise I'll tell you if it gets bad again."
Kitty made a stern face, "Do you pinky promise?"
Minho laughed and cupped kitty's face with his hand, "I pinky promise." He said as he planted a kiss on her cheek.
Kitty pulled back and held out her pinky.
"You really don't trust me, do you Covey." Minho said with a small chuckle.
"No I trust you completely, you just have to promise me." Kitty replied, and pushed her hand towards him, insistent he complied in the pinky promise.
Minho held out his own hand, "okay pretty girl." He locked his finger with hers.
As he tried to pull back Kitty kept her hold tight.
"No no no, you have to lock it."
"Lock it?" Minho said confused.
Kitty took her thumb and pressed it against Minhos, "Lock it." She said as she leaned in and kissed him.
Minho responded like he was starved, immediately moving his hands to kitty's neck, deepening the kiss.
Kitty pulled back, "woah there, how about you finish breakfast first." She jokingly used her hands to turn his head back to the tray where his half eaten muffin was.
Minho automatically moved his head back, leaning in close, "What if I want you to be breakfast." He was an inch away from her mouth.
Kitty could feel the heat rise to her cheeks, she had been getting teased by Minho for so long but she was never going to get used to when he said something romantic.
Minho grined, his mission to make Kitty flustered had succeeded so he turned back away. "I'll finish my actual breakfast, but only because my stomach is growling."
Kitty composed herself. "You better eat some protein too, I want you to get better quickly."
Minhos grin returned, "Oh you do? So we can continue what we were just doing?"
Kitty playfully smacked his arm. "Eat your food."
"Yes ma'am."
Minho continued happily chewing his muffin with a smug look on his face.
Even though Kitty prided herself on being the ultimate matchmaker, when she really thought about it, she didn't know much about love or intimacy when it came to herself.
Anybody that she's been with in the past they have never gone past kissing, but kitty believes her and Minho have already crossed that line.
Everytime when they are together and it starts to get intense, she can feel herself wanting more but she doesn't necessarily know what more is.
Everyone probably suspects they've already done things because they are sharing a room, and now they have a whole house to themselves, and Kitty can think back to all the times something has interrupted them, maybe something would've happened then?
Kitty looked at Minhos face, trying to interpret the conversation they had just had. Could they both be ready to go further than they have?
She laughed at herself, Minho was still sick and this was what she was worried about. She shook the thought from her head and picked up her breakfast sandwich.
---
After breakfast, Kitty forces Minho to go back to sleep. After a couple minutes of protesting he agrees, falling asleep almost immediately, obviously exhausted.
Kitty works on cleaning up the leftover breakfast, he ate a little more than half of his muffin and a couple bites of his sandwich, mainly because she insisted, but it was nowhere near enough for what he needed.
Kitty stepped outside on the porch and dialed Lara Jean on her phone.
She picks up almost instantly. “Kitty! Where have you been, you’ve gone radio silent again. I know you’re with your new boyfriend but Dad and Margo have been worried.”
Kitty’s heart starts beating a little faster. Her phone has been off for the majority of the trip and she's missed more calls than she can count, but if Margo’s been talking to Dad, she most definitely let the secret about her and Minho out.
“I know I am so sorry, I really am, the trip has been so busy it’s honestly a miracle I didn’t leave my phone at the last tour stop.”
Lara Jean sighed, “It’s okay Kitty-cat, I understand.”
“Hey…about Margo talking to Dad-” Kitty asked tentatively.
“Don’t worry, I convinced her not to say anything about you and Minho, but you really should let Dad know sooner than later, you don’t want him to find out from social media.
“ Lara Jean interrupted.
“I know, I was planning on taking Minho to Portland with me when we stop in LA for the tour, I will explain to Dad then.” Kitty herself didn’t know that this was the best idea in the world. She didn’t think her Dad would get mad at her for dating him, but she didn’t know how Minho would react to rundown Portland compared to Seoul.
“I think that’s good. Me and Peter are staying home for a while this Summer so I will see you, and I’ll try to keep Dad off of instagram somehow.”
Kitty was always so grateful for Lara Jean, she dealt with all of Kitty’s crazy antics and was still willing to do more for her.
“So how are you and your boy-toy anyways?” Lara Jean pulled Kitty from her thoughts.
Kitty sighed thinking about all that happened the past couple days. “Our relationship is really healthy, he treats me so well, and I really really love him.” She paused and could almost feel tears coming to the brims of her eyes. “But…”
“Sis? What’s wrong?” Lara Jean asked on the other end, obviously concerned.
Kitty felt a tear drip down her cheek to her chin. “H… He doesn’t know when to stop, or how to pace himself. He does too much for other people because he thinks that’s the only way to show his love. He picked up something viral, and mixed with all of the flights and exhaustion, he had to be hospitalized. He was discharged and now I’m staying with him and an assistant in Jarkata so he can rest before we fly out.”
Kitty was crying now. Wet sloppy tears running down her face quicker than she could blink them back. She didn’t realize how affected she was by the whole situation.
“Oh Kitty Cat…” Lara Jean sounded like she was going to cry. When the Covey sisters lost their mother when they were young, ever since then if one cried in front of another, the other one was almost instantly in tears as well.
“I’m sorry, I don’t know why I’m so emotional, its not like he’s dying or anything.” Kitty tried to suppress the tears but it didn’t seem to be working.
“No Kitty, don’t apologize, you hold in your emotions just like Minho, and you both wait until it overtakes you. This is a big deal because he’s your boyfriend and you love him. If you are there for him, he will learn how to appreciate and love himself because you will be loving him, I promise.”
Kitty realized right then how right Lara Jean was. Kitty kept all of her feelings in the back of her mind for as long as possible until it was impossible to hide them anymore. How long it took for her and Minho to get together was a perfect example of how similar they were in this way. She couldn’t believe she got upset with Minho for not properly taking care of himself when she probably would have done the same thing.
“You’re right LJ.”
“Well I usually am.” Lara Jean chuckled. “You should go get some rest with Minho, try to take care of each other, okay?”
“Will do sis, I love you.”
“I love you more.”
---
“Honey, come on, wake up.” Kitty had been gently stroking Minho’s shoulder for almost a full minute now but he didn’t seem to stir at all.
“Minho!” Kitty half-yelled.
He shot straight up out of the little cocoon he had made for himself on the couch looking around with a panicked look on his face, and Kitty knew right then he would be absolutely no use if someone ever broke in, but it was okay because she loved him anyways.
“Hi baby, it’s just me.” Kitty giggled.
Minho’s face instantly relaxed. He grabbed Kitty’s waist and pulled her down to sit on his lap, and reveled in the blush that spread on her cheeks.
“You didn’t have to yell to wake me up.” He said as he buried his face in her neck. She smelt and felt like home, even if they were so far away from it.
“Um yes I did, I had been trying to wake you up for so long but you were like a log.” Kitty laughed as she leaned back into his touch, wrapping her arms loosely around his shoulders.
“Well sorry for being a heavy sleeper,” Minho grumbled, voice muffled against her skin. Then he pulled back just enough to look up at her, eyes squinting playfully. “But if it is you waking me up like that, I guess it’s fine.”
Kitty rolled her eyes but couldn’t stop smiling. “You’re impossible.”
Minho smirked and pressed a quick kiss to her collarbone before resting his chin on her chest, blinking up at her. “So what’s next, nurse Covey?”
Kitty tapped him lightly on the nose. “Medicine time.”
Minho groaned, dramatically letting his head fall back against the couch. “Do we have to? That stuff tastes like death.”
“Yes, we do. You pinky promised me you’d take care of yourself, remember?” She raised an eyebrow at him.
Minho huffed out a resigned sigh. “Fine, fine, hand it over.”
Kitty laughed again and got up, returning a moment later with a small cup of water and the pill packet. She settled on the edge of the coffee table, close enough to keep her knees between his.
“Open,” she said, in her best mock-serious nurse voice.
Minho squinted at her. “You enjoy this too much.”
Kitty just held out the pill. Minho sighed again, but obediently took it, grimacing like a little kid as he swallowed it down with water.
“There,” Kitty said brightly, clapping her hands together. “That wasn’t so bad.”
Minho stuck out his tongue, then caught her wrist and tugged her forward, pressing a soft, lingering kiss to the inside of it. “You owe me,” he said, voice low and teasing.
Kitty’s cheeks warmed. “I’m about to make you dinner, so I’d say we’re more than even.”
He smirked, leaning back against the couch cushions, looking entirely too smug. “Only because it’s you.”
Kitty made him get up and follow her to the kitchen.
“Sit,” she ordered, patting the counter.
Minho raised an eyebrow. “On the counter?”
“Yes, on the counter. That way I can keep an eye on you and you won’t wander off or fall asleep again.” She crossed her arms.
Minho grinned and obediently hoisted himself up, swinging his long legs so his feet dangled off the edge. “You’re kind of hot when you boss me around, you know.”
Kitty turned away quickly to hide her blush, rummaging through the grocery bags. “Do you want spicy ramen or the chicken one?”
“Spicy,” Minho said without missing a beat. “If I’m suffering anyway, I might as well go all in.”
Kitty rolled her eyes but smiled. She got out two bowls and started boiling water. Meanwhile Minho just watched her with soft eyes, elbows on his knees, chin resting in his hands.
“What?” Kitty finally asked, glancing over her shoulder.
“You,” he said simply. “Taking care of me like this, thinking back to where we were last semester, it’s kind of unreal.”
Kitty’s heart squeezed. She set the seasoning packets down and walked over to stand between his legs, placing her hands on his thighs. “It’s not unreal. It’s what you do when you love someone.”
Minho looked down for a second, as if trying to hide how much that meant to him. Then he hooked his fingers through her belt loops and pulled her closer, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead.
“I love you too, Covey.”
Kitty closed her eyes, smiling. “I know.”
Minho laughed under his breath, the sound warm and relieved, and let her go so she could finish cooking.
Kitty moved around the kitchen, stirring noodles, adding packets of sauce, while Minho provided unnecessary but cute commentary.
“Be careful, Chef Covey. Wouldn’t want to burn your pretty hands.”
“Do you want to cook this yourself then?” Kitty shot back.
Minho held up his hands in surrender, grinning. “Nope. I’m quite enjoying this view.”
Kitty just shook her head as she drained the noodles and plated them up in two big bowls.
When she brought the bowls over, Minho reached to take his, but she swatted his hand away.
“Let me,” Kitty insisted. She lifted a chopstick-full of noodles to his mouth.
Minho raised an eyebrow but opened his mouth obediently, letting her feed him. “Mm. That’s good.”
“Yeah?” Kitty asked.
He swallowed and nodded, licking his lips dramatically. “Though I think I’d like it better if you’d sit here with me.”
Kitty rolled her eyes but hopped up on the counter beside him, bumping her shoulder against his. They ate side by side, knees knocking together, stealing bites from each other’s bowls.
---
Kitty found a mindless reality show for them to watch, something with bright colors and over-the-top music that didn’t require any real brainpower. She curled herself into Minho’s side, his arm wrapping around her shoulders automatically.
It wasn’t long before she felt the subtle heaviness of his breathing change, growing slower, deeper. She tipped her head up to see Minho’s eyes fluttering closed, lashes casting faint shadows across his pale skin.
“You’re falling asleep on me,” Kitty whispered.
“M’not,” Minho mumbled, though he didn’t even open his eyes.
Kitty giggled softly, shifting to kiss his jaw. “Come on, let’s get you to bed.”
“M’fine here…”
“Nope.” Kitty gently nudged him up, slipping under his arm and practically hauling him off the couch. Minho draped himself over her shoulders like a sleepy, oversized cat, doing nothing to help, just letting her drag him across the living room.
“Wow, you are so heavy,” Kitty puffed, half laughing as she staggered under his weight.
“I’m all muscle, baby,” Minho slurred, eyes still closed.
When they finally reached the bedroom, Minho flopped backward onto the mattress with a groan. Kitty rolled her eyes affectionately and went to rummage through his duffel bag, pulling out a soft t-shirt and a pair of clean sweats.
“Arms up,” she instructed.
Minho cracked one eye open. “Bossy.” But he obeyed, lifting his arms so she could tug off his hoodie and the thin shirt underneath.
Kitty tried not to stare too long at the faint lines of his chest and stomach, instead grabbing a small towel and soaking it in warm water from the bathroom sink. She returned and gently ran it over his skin, wiping away sweat, careful around the edges of his ribs.
Minho sighed, eyes closed again, his head tipping back against the pillows. “You’re too good to me, Covey.”
“Someone has to be,” Kitty said softly, her thumb brushing along his collarbone.
When she finished with his upper body, she handed him the sweatpants and immediately spun around to face the wall, covering her face with her hands.
Behind her, Minho laughed. That low, warm, teasing sound that made her entire chest ache.
“You know, it’s not that big of a deal,” he drawled, amusement thick in his voice. “Especially considering where our relationship is headed.”
Kitty groaned, hiding her face even more. “Minho!”
“Hey, I’m just saying, someday you’re going to have to look.”
She laughed despite herself, cheeks blazing hot. “Just hurry up!”
A moment later, she heard the rustle of fabric and then Minho’s voice again, softer. “Okay, I’m decent. You can turn around.”
Kitty peeked over her shoulder, then rolled her eyes at the smug little smirk on his face. But she couldn’t help the fondness blooming in her chest as she crawled onto the bed beside him, tucking herself into his side.
Minho immediately pulled her closer, burying his face in her hair.
“You take such good care of me,” he whispered, voice a little rough with emotion.
Kitty tightened her hold on him, pressing a gentle kiss to his shoulder. “Someone has to make sure you survive your own stubbornness.”
He chuckled, low and sleepy, his breath warm against her temple. “Guess I’ll keep you around then.”
They lay like that for a long while, limbs tangled, hearts steadying together. Eventually Kitty felt his breathing even out again, and his hand went slack where it was tangled in her hair.
She smiled into his chest, closed her eyes, and let sleep finally take her too. Wrapped up in the warmth of Minho, exactly where she wanted to be.
Notes:
Long time no see!!!! I’ve missed writing this, my summer is shaping up to be quite busy but once I move in the fall my schedule should clear up a bit! I should be able to get at least one more chapter out in the next two weeks before I leave for Guatemala so it shouldn’t be too long! Love you all, thank you so much for the support. <333
Chapter 30: Baby Shower
Chapter Text
“Just stay close to me, everything will be okay.”
Kitty looked up at her boyfriend Minho who had just said those words. He had on a black baseball hat with his long hair peeking out from the sides. They were walking through the crowded Jakarta airport hand in hand. Mr.Moon’s assistant Caleb followed close behind rolling three suitcases insisting he was to take them the second they arrived at the airport.
“Babe - we aren’t famous like your brother, there’s nothing we have to worry about.” Kitty chuckled. She had never had any type of flying anxiety but it was cute that Minho was so determined to take care of her.
Suddenly she felt the grip on her hand tighten and pull her closer to touch Minho’s side. Before she could ask what was going on, a dozen photographers emerged from the crowd seemingly from nowhere.
The paparazzi started shouting questions and a crowd started to form around them, but Minho kept his pace and Kitty tried her best to keep up.
Kitty picked up one specific question because a reporter called her name. “Ms. Covey - can you describe the way you felt when Mr.Minho Moon collapsed at the concert.”
Minho being ill? That’s what the questions were about? That doesn’t make any sense, Kitty thought to herself as she heard questions being thrown out about the length of treatment in the hospital and how they felt about Young Moon and Joon Ho moving on to the next tour spot without them.
“Babe - how do they know about you getting sick, why is it a big deal?” Kitty whispered quietly, but loud enough so Minho could hear over the crazy crowd.
“It’s alright pretty girl, we’ll talk on the plane.” He gave her hand a reassuring squeeze and quickened their pace to the security line.
Once they got past security the paparazzi could no longer follow them. They were running a little bit behind and had to rush to their terminal where the flight was already boarding.
Even though they weren’t flying on Mr.Moon’s private jet, first class was still quite an adjustment for Kitty. The seats were equipped with their own mini tvs, magazines, little soft foot slippers, and you could even put up dividers between you and the person next to you for privacy. Of course, Minho and her wouldn’t be doing that because ever since they started dating each other they have been inseparable.
The flight attendant started the safety instructions in case of an emergency and Kitty turned to Minho. “What was that back there, why were they asking all those questions.”
Minho sighed and ran his hand through his hair. “Reporters and paparazzi are always searching for anything that will give them a good story. Someone probably posted a video of when I passed out at the concert and they are trying to twist it into some big huge story. When we get to Singapore I’ll tell my dad to post a statement to clear everything up.”
He leaned his head on her shoulder through the little gap between their seats. “I was wishing they wouldn’t be at the airport, and I hope they didn’t stress you out.”
Kitty leaned into his touch and intertwined their fingers, softly running her thumb over his soft skin. “No it’s okay, they didn’t stress me out at all.” Minho gave a soft hum in response. “Are you feeling okay, babe?” Kitty asked as she put her palm up to his forehead.
Minho chuckled, “I’m totally better now, and I promise to tell you if I’m feeling bad again. We have a two hour flight so I figured I would get a nap in.” He reached completely over the gap in the seats to pull Kitty in closer to him.
Kitty smiled, “Comfy?” Minho murmured as he tucked his head in the crook of Kitty’s neck and planted a soft kiss there. She allowed herself to close her eyes and be lulled into sleep by the comfort of him beside her.
—
“Kitty!!!!!!” Eunice and Eunji stood behind the roped off area after customs in the Singapore airport. They were waving very enthusiastically holding a sign that said “Welcome Kitty and Minho!!! <333”, decorated with glitter gel and sticker hearts.
“EEEeeek!!!” Kitty squealed and ran up to give them both a big hug leaning across the rope.
“Woowww, don’t care about the one who was in the hospital less than a week ago, I see how it is.” Minho commented sarcastically.
Eunji chuckled and playfully hit Minho’s shoulder. “Sorry bro, Kitty’s just more important.”
Minho scoffed and crossed his arms.
“I’m just kidding, drama queen. I’m glad you’re okay.” Eunji gave him a hug.
Minho smiled and hugged her back, also giving Eunice a slight hug. “Where’s my idiot brother?”
“Hey, don’t call my fiance an idiot!” Eunji snapped. “And he’s at practice, your Dad is pushing him really hard since he’s gaining so much publicity.”
He rolled his eyes in response. “So he’s barely spending time with his fiance who's 8 months pregnant.”
Kitty then interjected, “Babe he is practically glued to her every time he’s off stage give him a break.” She laughed, “But Eunji, your tummy is going so fast!!! How are you feeling?”
“Honestly, I’m perfectly fine now that my whole nausea problem is over. The only problem is shaving my legs in the shower, but I’m forcing Joon Ho to do that for me.” She chuckled.
Mr.Moon’s private driver then came up to take their luggage and escort them all to the fancy vans that Kitty would never in her life get used to.
—
When they got to the hotel where they were staying, Dae, Joon Ho, and Mr. Moon were all waiting for them.
“Baby brother!!! How are you feeling?” Joon Ho ran up to his younger brother and pretended to smother him in kisses.
Minho made a disgusted face and pushed him off. “Gross. Mind the face please, it’s not easy to look this perfect.”
His dad came up and gave him a hug, one of the rare times he shows physical affection although he’s been getting much better recently.
“Seriously though, are you sure you are fully recovered? How are you feeling after the flight today?”
Minho, who typically loves all the attention, was hating this, he felt smothered. He rolled his eyes, “I swear to you, I feel perfectly fine, and I promised Kitty that I would tell you guys if I wasn’t feeling well again.”
“He even pinky promised!” Kitty said very proudly with a grin.
“Did you make him lock it? It only counts if you lock it.” Eunice said.
Minho grabbed Kitty’s hand and interlocked their pinkies, and pressed their thumbs together. He looked at everyone and raised his eyebrows with a smug look on his face. “See, I told you. I even locked the pinky promise.”
Kitty looked at him with her eyebrows raised, obviously not impressed by his snarky comment, “Wanna try again?” she said.
Minho immediately straightened his posture and smiled at her. “I promise to you I will take care of myself.” He pressed their thumbs together to lock it again and then took her hand to gently press a kiss on it.
Kitty smiled, satisfied. “That’s better.”
—
After Kitty and Minho had settled into their (overly fancy) new room, Kitty went down to the lobby of the hotel with Eunice and Eunji to help set up the ballroom for the baby shower tomorrow.
There were already workers setting up tables in chairs in the huge open room, and Eunji lead Eunice and Kitty to all the boxes of decorations.
“Why did you decide to have the baby shower in Singapore instead of Korea? Since it’s so far away?” Eunice questioned.
“Most of my family actually lives in Singapore, my grandparents and aunts and uncles. The only part of my family that still lives in Seoul is me, my parents, my sister and her husband,” Eunji replied. “I love Singapore, and didn’t want my grandparents to fly so I decided to do it here.”
“Ohhh that makes sense.”
The three of them opened all the boxes of decorations with pink and blue pastel balloons, table center pieces, banners, etc. They had decided to combine the gender reveal and the baby shower together that way there didn’t have to be so many events.
“Are you and Joon Ho wishing for a boy or girl?” Kitty asked as they started to unload everything. It was mostly Eunice and her moving everything since neither wanted Eunji to bend down.
“I’d be happy with either, I think Joon Ho wants a boy but we haven’t really talked about it. I think he’d be such a cute girl dad though.” Eunji said with a smile.
The three of them continued to set up all the decorations while chatting and gossiping about random things. Eunji told Kitty that when her and Minho were gone she had accidentally walked in on Young Moon in his underwear and they all laughed about how traumatizing that must have been.
“Oh my gosh guys,” Eunji exclaimed as she looked around the ballroom that was now completely decorated. “This looks incredible, it's everything I’ve ever wanted.”
Eunice noticed tears started to well in the corner of her eyes. “Hey,” She said, wrapping her arm around her shoulder, “What’s going on? Are you okay?”
Kitty came to stand on the other side of Eunji as tears started to slide down her cheeks.
“I’m just so happy.” She said, trying to wipe away the tears even though they continued to fall. “I was so scared when I found out I was pregnant. No one even knew me and Joon Ho were together and I didn’t even think I would be able to keep our child because of the constant attention he has from the public.”
Kitty and Eunice leaned their heads on her shoulders, comfortingly rubbing their hands on her back.
“Because of you two, Mr. Moon, and Minho, I was able to be supported throughout my pregnancy, and I am able to get married to the man I love. I’m just so happy.” Eunice smiled, leaning into both of their hugs.
“Awwe, Eunji, we are always here for you.” Kitty said, wrapping her arms around them to start a group hug.
“Always.” Eunice replied.
—
The baby shower was perfect. It was better than perfect. Everything was beautiful and Eunji and her family were so happy.
Mr. Moon made a very emotional and genuine speech that made both Minho and Joon Ho cry. Both of them can’t even begin to explain how much it has impacted them to see their dad grow and change in so many ways.
Finally it was time for the gender reveal where they cut into a small cake, and the color on the inside indicated whether the baby was to be a girl or boy.
When Eunji lifted her plate to reveal a slice of pink cake the only emotion on Joon Ho’s face was complete joy. He started crying again, and Kitty and Minho joked about how much his jaw must hurt from smiling so big.
Eunice and Kitty were already so excited to start planning a pink nursery and to go shopping with Eunji for all her supplies.
Joon Ho and Eunji’s wedding date is set for October, but they made sure to have a dance floor and DJ set up for their baby shower so they could give everyone a sneak peak of their first dance.
Both of them being professional dancers, it was quite beautiful, although the crowd would chuckle every time Joon Ho would bump into Eunji’s growing tummy.
Kitty and Minho stood by the door to say goodbye to all the guests, and were eventually the last people left in the ballroom beside some lingering staff cleaning up dirty dishes.
“That was incredible.” Kitty commented.
“I’ve never seen my brother so happy in his life. I can’t believe he’s going to be a father.” Minho said. He had been emotional all night, and almost as ecstatic as his brother when the gender was revealed.
Kitty clung onto his arm and planted a soft kiss on his cheek. “And you get to be an uncle of a sweet little niece.”
“And you get to be an aunt.” Minho said as he wrapped his arms around her.
“Hey, we aren’t married!” Kitty said as she chuckled.
“But we will be.”
Kitty couldn’t stop the soft pink that spread on her cheeks as she leaned into Minho’s chest.
“I love you.”
Notes:
HEY EVERYBODYYYYY! So guess what! The second I posted the last chapter my computer basically blew up. I seriously regret ever posting this on Ao3 because everytime I post something insane happens. But I have got a new laptop, and moved away, hopefully will have a lot more time to continue this story. (BEST BELIEVE it will be done before season 3 is out.) I’ve missed all of you, and hope you are doing well, sorry this chapter is shorter. I really wanted to get something out.
Please comment and tell me what you think!!! I love you guys <33333

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