Minji Thoughts - Blog Posts

winter wonders

girlfriend!minji x fem!reader

synopsis: a cozy christmas eve with cinnamon, cocoa, and peppermint sets the stage as yn spends the evening with minji and her family. amid festive decorations and shared moments, they navigate love, family dynamics, and their evolving relationship. between gingerbread decorating and intimate conversations, yn begins to feel like part of something bigger, but the night ends with a playful reminder that love doesn’t always follow the rules.

warnings: implied insecurity and unhappy family?; other than that none i guess it's just fluff :3

a/n: AHAHA back with another masterpiece (i hope) i’m trying a new writing style which are just basically my rawest thoughts so yeah this is very raw :D i hope you enjoy reading though. (early) merry christmas every1☃️🎄

a warm blend of cinnamon, hot cocoa, and peppermint fills my cozy apatment’s air. christmas is coming. the decorations have been set up, the trees have been decorated, and the gingerbreads were about to be frosted. i’m in my kitchen, still waiting for minji to come in through my apartment door with her smiley face, it’s 5PM, she should’ve done with her work. three minutes into the thought, the girl that had been occupying my mind finally arrives.

“ynn!” she excitedly exclaims my name with her hands up in the air. oh, she brought potter. i immediately handed minji her apron after giving her a quick peck on the lips. how was your day? i was meaning to ask before seeing her furrowed eyebrows and pouty lips, i grinned at the sight and get back to decoraring before she sense my gaze and caught me being an absolute loser when it comes to loving her.

fortunately, before i couldn’t resist the urge to once again kiss her lips senseless and possibly ruining yet another christmas eve activity. she looked up and with a soothing tone, asked me, “how was your day?” i was more than pleased when she asked that, she senses my thoughts, i like having my mind read.

“not much, since final season is over i’ve been focused on catching the hours i’ve been awake to study, i walked around the block near at three ans got brunch. how about you?” she has all my attention the moment those lips part.

“oh you know, it’s been a whirlwind lately,” she begins, concentrating on piping icing onto a cookie, “this morning, we had a photoshoot for vogue korea. they wanted to capture both traditional and modern concepts so we got to wear hanboks and some chic contemporary outfits. it was exhausting but so rewarding,” she pauses, selecting a gumdrop for her gingerbread man.

“after that, we had a meeting about our upcoming independent projects. since leaving ador, we’ve been navigating everythung ourselves—planning, scheduling, even managing our social media. it’s a lot of responsibility, but it’s empowering to have creative control.” her eyes met mine, a mix of excitement and fatigue, “honestly, it’s been nonstop, but at least i got to soend more time with you which is the best part of my day.” there it is again, the glimmer of her eyes washing over me. i don’t think i can continue this conversation—looking in her eyes too—any longer without a kiss or two so i went back to my gingerbread house and didn’t ask anymore questions furthermore.

“my parents invited you to dinner tonight. are you willing to come this year?” she used a softer, more tender vocabulary than last year. somehow, even after spending more time (with the girls) than ever to get used to the feeling of togetherness, i still feel a tinge of anxiety and annoyance when i picture a family dinner. a real family dinner. where everyone is included. she had tell me how her family is like at times. i thought for a second and replied, “do they know about us?” to my relief, minji smiled and nod, “they’re a lot more familiar with your name rather than the girls.” with a few words of reassurance we drove to her house after covering the gingerbread cookies with a nearby cloth.

i drove, she hasn’t got her driver’s license yet. “relax bro, they’re gonna like you. you’re a great person.” i muttered thank you though i wasn’t sure if i were even a good person to begin with.

“there! that’s my house.” i was mesmerized when i took my glance of the house. it wasn’t the traditional korean house like i imagined, rather, it was a modern, fully decorated house. i laughed realizing that her house has the most, what was the word again? crowded. yeah, her house is very crowded with all the christmas lights and decorations.

the first meeting with her family was surprisingly comforting to me. her mother shared the same gaze and speaking tone with her, offering me some pear juice—i politely accepted it and chug it down in one breath, i was nervous. we sat on the dinner table, everything is ready.

“you want galbijjim or roasted chicken?” minji whispered softly as she took my plate, her voice barely audible over the quiet hum of conversation. everyone else had already started eating, but she, as always, made sure i was served first. it was a simple gesture, yet one that spoke volumes—a habit she’d carried since the day we met, placing my needs before her own with an ease that felt like second nature.

“both.” i smiled for the first time after arriving at the house, my nerves has started to relax. the dinner table feels warmer than i expected, with the soft hum of conversations swirling around me. the glow from the christmas lights, which feel like they’re everywhere, dances across the room in little flickers, adding to the festive atmosphere. minji’s parents are seated at the head of the table, her mom, just as graceful as minji, making sure everyone’s glass is full and everyone’s plate is filled.

“so, yn,” minji’s dad says, breaking through the noise with his deep voice, “how’s life been treating you? what have you been up to lately?” his tone is casual, inviting—like he’s genuinely curious, not probing.

i clear my throat, suddenly aware of the quiet that surrounds me. “oh, uh, not much. just finished finals, so i’ve been... trying to breathe again,” i laugh softly, the nervous tension in my chest easing a little. “and spending time with minji, obviously.”

minji looks at me with a small smile, her hand subtly brushing mine under the table. it’s comforting, knowing that in a room full of unfamiliar faces, there’s this unspoken connection between us.

her mom laughs, a light, melodic sound that makes the whole room feel a little less stiff. “you two always seem so happy together,” she says, her eyes warm. “i’m glad to see minji with someone who makes her smile so much. it’s rare, you know.”

i glance at minji, a soft flush creeping onto her cheeks, but she doesn’t look embarrassed—just content. she catches my gaze, and for a moment, the world outside the dinner table fades.

“you guys have been such a great couple,” her dad adds, and i can feel the weight of the words settling in, almost like a compliment wrapped in a quiet approval.

i smile at minji’s parents, grateful for the warmth they’re offering, and without thinking, i reach for the galbijjim, placing a piece on minji’s plate before mine. it’s a small thing, but in this moment, it feels like the right thing to do—following the same simple gesture she’s done for me so many times before.

"thanks for having me," i say softly, almost shy.

her dad gives me a knowing smile, and i see minji’s mom glance between us before she turns back to the table, her face lighting up with the joy of the moment. there’s something peaceful about this—being here, in this space where i’m allowed to be myself without any pretenses.

the meal goes on, each dish more delicious than the last, and slowly, i begin to feel like part of the family. it’s the little things—the way minji’s mom keeps her eye on me, making sure i’m comfortable, or how minji subtly moves closer to me every time i glance her way.

when dessert comes, a sweet red bean cake topped with powdered sugar, the conversation shifts to quieter topics. minji’s mom shares stories from minji’s childhood, laughing about the times she was a little troublemaker, always getting into things she shouldn’t have. i find myself laughing along, feeling like i’m part of this intimate, warm circle, and when minji rests her head on my shoulder as we sit together, i think to myself that this is what christmas is all about.

there’s no pressure, no need for perfect moments. just us, together.

the night grew as the conversation grows, her parent had asked me about my future plans and intentions with their daughter out of nowhere. in the midst of that conversation, her brother came home with a couple of his friends. woah, they really all look alike. they sat on the floor, not long from where we sat but the milisecond frown that i made is enough to make minji aware of my uncomfyness.

“wanna go home? finish our gingerbreads?” she whispered once again. i also like when minji refers to my apartment as home, it makes me feel like i have succeeded in building a home i once never have. i nodded, “can i... can minji stay over at my place tonight mr. kim?” with a rush of courage i asked her father before stepping outside, “i promise i’ll be good, eh-” realizing how childish i must’ve looked i retreat to the car—after minji’s dad patted my back several times, approving.

as we drive back, minji is quiet, her hand brushing against mine as she hums softly to the music. it’s comforting, the way we don’t need to say much. just the presence of each other is enough to make everything else fade. i can’t help but smile to myself. i know there’s still a lot of questions ahead—about us, about where we’re going—but right now, all that matters is that we’re here.

as soon as we step into my apartment—home—minji pushes me up against the wall and started to kiss me all over the place. i pull away, chuckling nervously. “wait, wait. i promised your father i’d be good.”

minji grins, that mischievous glint in her eyes. “yeah, but i don’t,” she teases, her hands sliding up my shirt, her fingers just grazing my skin. “keep resisting me, and i’ll keep doing things to you.”

and just like that, all the uncertainty from earlier vanishes. i can’t help but laugh, my heart pounding in my chest. she knows exactly what she’s doing to me. but for now, as we stand there in our home—together—it’s perfect. i don’t need any more words.

you got the lucky dog!🍀

kim minji x fem!reader

synopsis: yn’s fear of dogs holds a painful secret—one she’s forced to face after rescuing an abandoned puppy. with the help of minji, a kindhearted vet, yn begins to heal, finding comfort, love, and a new beginning as they raise juntos together.

warnings: mention of violence and abusive parent; slight angst, they got a happy ending tho; yn’s kinda insecure; NOT proofread

a/n: cried a little bit while writing this😓 ngl this does feel kinda rushed but i'm eager to post atm💪

dogs, your nemesis.

for as long as you could remember, the sight of a dog triggered a quiet panic inside you, a swift, choking sensation you could never quite shake. the fear reached back to a single moment: a hot, blinding summer afternoon in your childhood when you’d been innocently clutching a sausage, nibbling on it between games in your backyard.

out of nowhere, a mangy, rabid-looking dog charged toward you, eyes wild and fixated on the piece of meat dangling from your fingers. your stomach clenched, and you bolted, heart hammering. behind you, the dog's growl tore through the air, relentless, growing louder with every pounding step. in a last-ditch effort to escape, you threw open the back door and stumbled into your house, the safety you expected replaced with the sound of your father’s yelling.

in your mother’s fearful eyes, you saw a reflection of your own—both of you trapped, just in different ways. the dog scratched furiously at the door, the sounds outside colliding with the shouts from inside, fusing into one. from that day on, the fear of dogs burrowed deep, layered atop memories of helplessness and chaos. a fear you never let anyone in on, because it wasn’t just about dogs. not really.

so when you found a shivering golden retriever puppy in an alley one night, the old terror resurfaced in full force. you froze, your first instinct screaming at you to turn back, to pretend you hadn’t seen anything. but its pitiful whimpers held you in place. it was helpless—abandoned, like you sometimes felt—and before you knew it, your legs moved you forward. you knelt, pulse thudding in your ears, and scooped it up with shaky arms, hardly able to breathe with the puppy pressed so close.

that’s how you met her—minji, the vet.

she barely glanced at you before reaching for the puppy, her voice soft as she murmured to it, hands working quickly and carefully, inspecting its wounds. her calmness unsettled you, made you feel more visible than you were used to. you tried to focus on anything but her, on the puppy’s gentle breathing, on the antiseptic smell of the clinic, until her voice cut through.

"you did the right thing, bringing him here," she said, a faint smile playing on her lips. "he’s lucky someone cared enough."

your throat tightened. lucky? you hadn’t felt lucky for a long time, but you managed a nod, murmuring, “i just... didn’t want to leave him behind.”

minji’s gaze lingered, something almost knowing in her eyes. “what’s his name?”

“he’s- i found him in an alley nearby,” you whispered, avoiding her gaze. “but, i... i wan’t to care for him. perhaps naming him juntos, it means ‘together.’” the name felt like a promise—a shaky one, but a promise nonetheless. one you weren’t even sure you could keep.

minji’s smile softened, and for a fleeting second, her hand brushed against yours as she took juntos back for bandaging. you flinched—too sharply. she noticed but didn’t say a word, just let her hand fall away. that simple gesture, her unspoken understanding, caught you off guard. you’d been expecting questions, pity, maybe even a push for you to “face your fear.” but she left it at that, moving about the clinic as if it were normal for someone to shake with fear over a puppy.

you didn’t expect to be back so soon.

the next day, juntos’ bandages seemed off, smeared with what looked like blood. an excuse to see her again? maybe. but you couldn’t bring yourself to admit it. you convinced yourself it was about juntos. so you showed up, fidgeting in the clinic’s waiting area, hoping she’d think you were here for the right reasons.

when she walked in, her eyes caught yours, a glimmer of something like amusement hidden behind her calm gaze. “betadine, not blood,” she said as if she could read the question in your mind. “the bandages are fine.” but she changed them anyway, her movements careful and precise.

“i don’t mind if you bring him here, though,” she murmured, a slight teasing edge to her voice. “but i have a feeling you’re looking for an excuse.” her fingers lingered on juntos’ fur, and you realized you’d been holding your breath.

she smiled, her expression softening when you finally met her gaze. “here,” she said, writing her number on the back of your hand in a quick, effortless scrawl. “in case you need to talk. or…if you need more excuses to come by.”

your fingers curled around the ink, something fragile swelling in your chest. you nodded, feeling a familiar tightness in your throat. but all you managed was a quiet, “okay.”

that night, you lay awake, heart pounding as you stared at the number on your hand. for the first time in a long while, you felt something other than the hollow echo of fear. instead, it was a pull—toward something unknown, terrifying, and yet…warm.

***

weekends with minji felt like a series of small discoveries.

she invited you over, and though you hesitated, the thought of being near her felt like a safe place to fall. her home was everything yours wasn’t: bright, open, brimming with life. the centerpiece of it all was her aquarium, an underwater world you could have stared at for hours.

“had a fish named darwin once,” she mused, watching a neon-blue fish dart through the coral. “he was my first, actually. still have him, though he’s in there somewhere.”

her words tugged at something inside you, memories of your own darwin—a small, loyal fish who hadn’t made it past the summer of his first year. the reminder stung, reminding you of all the broken things you’d tried to piece together but couldn’t. her tank was alive, flourishing, while yours had long since turned empty and forgotten.

you couldn’t hide the flash of pain in your eyes. minji noticed, and in her typical quiet way, didn’t press. instead, she let the silence settle, her fingers tapping gently on the glass as if the aquarium itself could tell you the words she left unsaid: “it’s okay if things don’t stay whole.”

but there were moments where the walls closed in again. one night, as you sat across from her at her kitchen table, memories crept back in unbidden—old, ragged shadows of barking dogs and slamming doors. you felt your hand tremble, and minji’s gaze shifted to you, her calm unwavering.

“sometimes, fear doesn’t just disappear,” she said quietly, her voice a soothing presence in the room. “it stays. but that doesn’t mean you’re not strong for feeling it.” she took your hand, squeezing it gently, grounding you.

for a moment, you wanted to pull back, to recoil from the comfort. comfort was a dangerous thing; you knew what it felt like to lose it. but her hand stayed steady, and gradually, so did you.

weeks turned into months, and in those countless moments between, you felt the slow but steady shift of something breaking open inside you, each barrier crumbling bit by bit. with juntos growing, his playfulness began filling the empty spaces of your days. there was something comforting in watching him bound around, carefree, tugging at loose socks and nuzzling against you when you’d lay on the couch, seeking comfort of his own.

one crisp evening, you found yourself in minji’s home again. juntos lay between you, sprawled out and gently snoring. minji was beside you on the couch, her warmth a steady presence, her hand softly resting near yours. you realized that each time she was near, the raw edges of your past felt less jagged, the fear that had once left you feeling trapped loosening its grip. in that quiet space, your guard started to wane.

“minji,” you whispered, looking down at juntos. she turned to you, her gaze steady but soft, the way it always was when she sensed you were holding something close to your heart.

“i… i don’t think i’ve ever told you why i’m so afraid of dogs,” you began, voice a little strained, almost uncertain. she nodded, giving you all the patience you needed. you took a shaky breath, “it wasn’t just the dog chasing me that day,” you explained, memories resurfacing with the weight they always carried. “it was my father. after i ran inside, he…” your words caught, but her hand was there, a quiet assurance resting gently over yours.

“he wasn’t a kind man,” you finished softly, voice barely above a whisper. “every time i see a dog, i… i can’t help but remember that day. all the yelling, the anger… i just, i get scared. and sometimes it feels like that fear will never leave me.”

minji’s thumb moved gently against the back of your hand, grounding you in that tender silence she always kept between you both. “fear doesn’t vanish overnight,” she murmured, her words like a warm balm. “but it doesn’t define you, either. it’s okay to carry it. and it’s okay to take your time with it.” she smiled, something knowing and gentle in her gaze. “you’re safe now. you have me, juntos, and maybe… maybe a chance to make peace with what happened.”

over time, it wasn’t just about juntos anymore. it became about building a new kind of life. together, you and minji nurtured him into adulthood, watching him grow into a big, playful bundle of loyalty, his devotion to you both a source of constant joy.

and, gradually, those fears began to fade, softened by the endless moments of safety and love that now filled your life.

years passed, and you found yourself with minji and juntos in a place you’d never thought possible—a modest home in the countryside, surrounded by a sweeping green field that stretched as far as the eye could see. juntos loved to roam here, his boundless energy set free across the vast, open land.

one evening, with the sunset painting the sky in shades of orange and lavender, you and minji stood side by side, watching juntos chase after a stray butterfly. her fingers intertwined with yours, a faint smile on her lips as she glanced at you.

“this,” she whispered, her eyes glimmering with something soft and steady, “this feels like home, doesn’t it?”

you looked at her, feeling the weight of every struggle, every ache, and every moment of growth that had brought you both here. there was peace now, an assurance that what you’d found together was real, solid. you nodded, smiling as you leaned your head against her shoulder. “it does. finally.”

together, you watched juntos play in the grass, his golden coat glowing under the fading light. the future felt boundless, the green fields around you symbolizing a fresh start, a life you’d both built from scratch—stronger, safer, and filled with love.

when minji slipped a simple silver band onto your finger one quiet afternoon, in the same green field that had become your sanctuary, you felt a warmth you hadn’t known was possible.

“we’re together,” she whispered, her voice steady, her gaze unwavering as she met your eyes.

“together,” you replied, a promise wrapped in that single word, as juntos circled around you both, tail wagging, bearing witness to the life you’d built—a life where you’d found peace, joy, and a love that felt like home.

after going silent for a good minute, you opened your mouth, “how does a daughter sound to you?”

the moment between us

best-friend!minji x fem!reader

synopsis: in a cozy night filled with cheesy romcoms and laughter, best friends yn and minji find themselves tangled in each other's arms, both oblivious to the feelings simmering beneath the surface. a spontaneous kiss breaks the tension, leading to a moment that changes everything. as they navigate the blurred lines between friendship and something more, they discover the warmth of connection and the promise of new beginnings.

warnings: mild sexual tension; very very very short; obv not proofread; intended lowercase.

a/n: in my productive writer era pt.2😼 this has been collecting dust in my draft tbh

it was one of those cozy nights—the kind where you and minji settled in for your weekly binge of cheesy romcoms, the air filled with the scent of popcorn and laughter. you snuggled into her arms on the couch, a warm blanket draped over your legs. glancing up at her, you were struck by how beautiful she looked, illuminated by the flickering screen. her hair framed her face perfectly, and the way her eyes sparkled made your heart flutter.

without thinking, you leaned in and pressed your lips against hers. the kiss surprised her at first, and a rush of panic coursed through you. but then she melted into it, returning the kiss with a sweetness that made everything else fade away. the movie continued to play, but you both lost yourselves in the moment, your lips moving together as the world outside disappeared.

when you finally pulled away, breathless, you noticed her glasses were fogged up. you gently pushed them up her nose and brushed a few damp strands of hair from her forehead. her cheeks were flushed, and you couldn’t help but giggle at the sight of your lipstick smudged across her lips.

“you’re so cute, you know that?” you said, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness.

minji grinned, her eyes sparkling. “you’re not so bad yourself,” she replied, her voice teasing.

the moment felt different now, filled with a warmth that had always been there but had never been fully acknowledged. as you both settled back into the couch, the tension shifted from uncertain to hopeful. maybe this was the start of something new, and you couldn’t help but feel that it was a step toward something deeper between you two.

bad things come at midnight

vampire!haerin x fem!reader x vampire!minji

synopsis: yn’s escape from a cruel orphanage leads her to the grand castle of two mysterious sisters, minji and haerin. as secrets unravel, yn discovers she is the reincarnation of minji’s past lover, a revelation that ignites dangerous desires and bitter jealousy. caught in a web of immortal love and betrayal, yn must decide if her new life is truly a blessing—or a curse that comes with the night.

warnings: mention of blood; mild violence; past character death(?); implied past trauma; slightly suggestive; intended lowercase; not proofread i ain't have time for that🤪

a/n: should've made this into a two part series but meh🤷‍♀️ i didn't have a lot of time to write so it may be great at some parts but shitty at some parts😔😔

it was a stormy night, the wind howling as the rain lashed against your body. cold seeped into your bones with each step, your hands trembling as you made the final delivery of the night—a warm meal from the restaurant downtown. you shivered as you fumbled with the heavy iron gate of the grand gothic castle, a place that looked like it had been frozen in time since the 16th century. the owner had been a regular for months now, ordering the same meal at the same time, always asking for it to be left on the table in the center of the lobby.

you knew the routine by heart: the towering arches, the dim lighting, a few candles flickering amidst weak bulbs, and that unsettling dust-covered tarp draped over a massive portrait you’d never dared to look under. tonight, however, something felt different. your instincts prickled, the hairs on your neck rising. you couldn’t shake the feeling of being watched.

as you set the mushroom soup down, the steam rising in comforting curls, you felt it—a pair of unseen eyes scrutinizing your every move. high above, hidden among the shadows of a grand chandelier, a bat stirred. its sharp gaze traced over the bruises and cuts littering your arms and legs, remnants of your life outside these walls. it noticed everything.

you flinched, your mind flashing back to the orphanage. the place you had called "home" for as long as you could remember. ever since the kindly former owner had fallen ill and her cruel sister had taken over, life had become unbearable. you and the other children had been turned into unpaid laborers, your meager earnings siphoned off to fund the new owner’s lavish lifestyle. as one of the older children, you took it upon yourself to steal bread from the restaurant where you worked, enough to share with the youngest in the orphanage, ensuring they didn’t starve.

but tonight, as you prepared to slip out and head back to the orphanage before curfew, you froze. a voice—a voice like silk draped in steel—cut through the air.

“you, child.” you whipped around, your heart leaping into your throat. standing before you were two women—no, not women. their pale skin gleamed in the dim light, their eyes too sharp, their bodies too still. one was tall, almost statuesque, her beauty cold and regal. the other, shorter, with an air of restless energy, her feline-like eyes gleaming in the shadows.

“sit,” the tall one commanded, her voice smooth yet laced with authority. instinctively, you took a step back, but her piercing gaze seemed to hold you in place, compelling you to obey. you felt the chair beneath you as if it were a trap, pulling you closer to them.

“good girl,” the shorter one smirked, her voice carrying a playful menace. “it’s much easier this way.”

you glanced at the table where you had left the soup, your mind racing. “what do you want?” you managed to stammer, your heart pounding like a drum in your chest.

“we want to know about you,” the tall one replied, her eyes studying the bruises on your arms. “i’m minji, and this is my sister haerin. we’ve been watching you.”

“watching me?” you echoed, disbelief mingling with fear. “why?”

“because you’re interesting,” haerin purred, tilting her head. “you’ve got spirit, and we admire that.”

“and you’re alone,” minji added, her tone softening slightly, though the chill in her eyes remained. “you don’t belong in that orphanage. it’s a wretched place, isn’t it? we can offer you something better—a life free from suffering.”

the weight of her words hung in the air, thick and suffocating. you recalled the nights spent huddled with the younger children, stealing bread to stave off hunger, and the feeling of despair that often settled in your chest. “what do you mean by ‘better’?” you asked cautiously, curiosity creeping into your voice.

“you’d be safe here,” minji said, taking a step closer, her presence both alluring and intimidating. “we have everything you could ever need. food, shelter, freedom. no more curfews, no more cruelty. just… comfort.”

“comfort?” you scoffed, still wary. “how can i trust you? you’re… different.”

haerin chuckled softly, her laughter echoing in the empty hall. “different, yes, but we are not monsters. we’re offering you a chance to escape a life filled with pain. think about it. the choice is yours.”

“i don’t want to be a prisoner in some castle,” you shot back, but doubt crept into your mind, nagging at you. “what’s the catch?”

“no catch,” minji reassured you, her voice almost hypnotic. “just the opportunity for a new beginning. you’ve survived alone for too long; let us show you what it’s like to be cared for.”

as the weight of her words settled, you felt a flicker of hope—a tantalizing possibility of belonging. it was so tempting, and yet…

“why me?” you asked, your voice barely above a whisper.

“because you’re resilient,” haerin replied, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “and we like resilience. you’re not like the others, are you? you’ve got a fire in you that deserves to be nurtured.”

“imagine it,” minji urged, her gaze penetrating. “you could be part of something extraordinary, a life filled with adventure and mystery. we’ll teach you everything. you won’t have to hide anymore.”

you hesitated, feeling the storm outside rage on, a mirror to the turmoil within you. the allure of their offer was strong, yet fear held you back. “what if i regret it?”

“you won’t,” haerin said, a smile playing on her lips. “i promise you’ll never look back. we’ll protect you. besides, if you don’t like it, you can always leave.”

“but where would i go?” you replied, your voice barely audible as reality settled in.

“that’s the beauty of it,” minji said, a hint of a smile creeping onto her face. “you wouldn’t need to go anywhere else. this could be your home.”

the warmth in her words felt like a balm to your weary soul. you looked at them, their expectant gazes piercing through the darkness. the thought of escaping the orphanage, of finally finding a place to belong, was intoxicating.

“i… i don’t know,” you admitted, wrestling with your fears and hopes.

“take your time,” minji said gently, her demeanor shifting to one of patience. “but we’re here, waiting for your decision. whenever you’re ready.”

as you sat there, the flickering candlelight casting shadows on the walls, you realized that this might be the chance you had been yearning for—a chance to escape a life of pain, to embrace something unknown yet enticing. but as the thought settled in, doubt gnawed at the edges of your mind. was it really that simple? could you just walk away from everything—into the arms of two strangers who seemed far too perfect, too predatory?

your eyes darted to the chandelier, the bulbs dying to light the room. everything about this place screamed danger, from the eerie silence to the sisters’ unnervingly graceful movements. and yet, beneath that fear, a different emotion stirred. curiosity.

"how do i know you're not just trapping me here?" you asked, your voice barely above a whisper, but the words heavy with the weight of your mistrust. "everyone promises something better, but it's never real. how are you any different from the people who made me promises before?"

minji’s expression softened, her gaze turning almost empathetic. "you’re right to be cautious," she said, her voice like velvet in the air, soothing but still sharp enough to cut. "the world has been unkind to you, but we’re not here to offer empty words. we offer something real, something tangible."

"and what is that, exactly?" you countered, your suspicion hardening again. "you talk about a better life, but what do you even want from me? people don't offer kindness for free."

haerin’s lips curved into a smirk, her sharp eyes gleaming in the dim light. "you're clever. i like that." she leaned forward, resting her arms on the table, her movements feline and calculated. "we’re not asking for much. just… loyalty. you’ll find that in time, it’ll be mutual."

"mutual?" you repeated, the word sounding foreign in your mouth. "and what happens if i decide i don't want to stay?"

"then you leave," minji answered smoothly, her voice a serene melody, though her eyes flickered with something darker, more possessive. "but trust me, after you’ve seen what we offer, you won’t want to."

their words draped over you like a fog, thick and seductive, but still, something nagged at you. you had learned the hard way that promises often concealed something sinister. every adult in your life had betrayed you in some way, from the orphanage owner who claimed to take care of you, only to bleed you dry, to the people who pretended to care, only to vanish when it mattered most.

"i'm not like the others who come through here, am i?" you asked, testing the waters. "you’ve had other people… visitors."

minji’s smile thinned slightly, but her composure remained flawless. "none like you."

"what makes me different?" you pressed, leaning forward. "why me?"

for a moment, silence stretched between you. haerin’s eyes narrowed, assessing you, while minji seemed to be weighing her next words carefully.

"because you're already part of our world," haerin finally said, her voice lower, more dangerous. "you just don’t know it yet."

the hairs on the back of your neck rose, a shiver running down your spine. "what do you mean?"

"you’ve been surviving on scraps and shadows your whole life," minji added, her tone delicate but firm. "the world you’ve known is just a sliver of what’s out there. you’re different because you’ve been forged by hardship. we see potential in you."

"potential for what?" you asked, your voice trembling slightly. "to become like you?"

"perhaps," minji said, her eyes glinting. "in time. if you choose to. but for now, all we offer is safety, shelter, and a way out of the life that’s been choking you."

you could feel your heartbeat in your throat, each thud echoing louder than the last. the weight of their offer pressed on you like a storm cloud, and yet… there was still a small voice inside, warning you, screaming at you to run. but run where? back to the orphanage where starvation and abuse awaited? back to a life where your only escape was through stolen bread and the brief, bitter moments of freedom when you were alone in the streets?

you stood, your legs shaky, but you didn’t back away. “i don’t want to be a pawn in someone else’s game,” you said, voice firm despite your pounding heart.

minji rose as well, graceful and composed. “you won’t be,” she promised, stepping closer, her hand reaching out but stopping just shy of touching you. “you’ll be a part of something greater, something far beyond what you can imagine.”

haerin stood, moving to the side like a shadow. "the question is, do you trust yourself enough to take that step?"

your breath caught in your throat. trust yourself? did you? every instinct in you screamed not to trust them, not to believe in the honeyed words of two ethereal creatures who barely blinked. but beneath that fear, there was a whisper, a tiny voice asking—what if this is real? what if you finally had a chance to escape?

you glanced from minji to haerin, their eyes fixed on you, waiting. the candlelight flickered, casting elongated shadows that danced on the stone walls, and you realized there was no clear answer, no certainty in either path. but the thought of going back to the orphanage, to that suffocating misery, was enough to make the decision for you.

with a slow, shaky breath, you nodded. “fine. i’ll stay.”

minji’s smile returned, soft and triumphant. “good choice,” she said softly.

haerin’s eyes gleamed, her smirk deepening as she let out a low, satisfied laugh. “you won’t regret it. welcome to your new life.”

after showing you around the house and talking about each of your backgrounds while sipping warm tea and nibbling on cookies, minji and haerin finally asked you to choose one of the rooms you liked. "just pick one, it doesn’t matter. i’ll ask someone to send you clothes and other things you need."

you frowned when minji mentioned 'someone,' but quickly brushed it off. while you were weighing which room suited you best, haerin excused herself to head to her own room.

"ah, don’t worry about her. she’s an introvert, probably ran out of energy for interaction," minji shrugged, gently placing a hand on your shoulder. "so, have you decided?"

you nodded, pointing to the room across from minji’s—not too large, but its window facing the garden stretched beautifully upwards. "aha! a good choice, i think we’ll make great partners."

though you had many questions about minji’s choice of words, you didn’t dare voice your curiosity. minji left you alone in the room after wishing you goodnight. "welcome to your new life, yn."

after cleaning yourself up—getting out of your rain-soaked clothes, taking a warm bath for the first time in years, you finally went to sleep. that night, you dreamt of a fragment of your past. your parents came to pick you up from the orphanage, taking you for a bike ride in the city park, and then sharing your favorite chocolate ice cream. you smiled in your sleep.

***

the next morning, your body's automatic alarm kicked in. just as the clock struck 4 a.m., you woke up. you turned to the window; the day was still dark—of course. rather than continuing to sleep and lazing around, you decided to get up, clean the dust and cobwebs hanging from the ceiling, and maybe even make breakfast. minji and haerin hadn’t shown their faces yet; they were probably still deep in slumber in their respective rooms.

after the brief tour minji and haerin gave you last night, you were fairly familiar with the layout of the grand castle. ‘turn right, then go straight,’ you repeated in your mind as you walked toward the kitchen. upon arriving, just as you suspected, the kitchen was a mess—it seemed minji and haerin had never cooked before since there was only a lump of bread that looked like it had been made ages ago and a… dead rat? you jumped slightly as you mentally mapped out how to clean this cursed kitchen.

with nothing else to do, you decided to head to minji's reading room—she had allowed you to read any book you liked, except for one red leather-bound book protected by a glass case as clear as water.

as you entered the grand library, time seemed to stand still. the books in this library looked more extensive than those in the city library! wow, from one end to the other, all you could see were books! you cheered inwardly, the doubts that had lingered in your heart last night vanished. even without the luxury they offered, you would want to stay here, surrounded by your favorite things: books.

without you realizing it, the sun began to rise. its bright light made you squint. you hurriedly closed the book, returned it to its place, and rushed back to the kitchen—you needed to start tidying up; you couldn’t act like an unruly child.

“oh, so you’re up, I see? i was just sending haerin to wake you,” minji said, wearing a knee-length floral dress, her hair down, illuminated by the warm glow of the hanging lamp as she prepared an omelet in the once-messy kitchen. even the latest modern tools were neatly arranged.

“do you like it? haerin and i just ordered it, but it arrived so quickly, right?” you nodded at both questions, walking over to minji—her tall figure towering over you. “do you need help?”

“you can set the plates on the dining table.” her gentle gaze met yours, and it took just a moment for you to nod, promptly carrying out her request.

as you carefully placed the plates on the long, ornate dining table, the distant sound of minji humming from the kitchen filled the air, her soft voice weaving through the silence of the grand castle. there was something strangely comforting in the way she moved through the house, her presence always bringing a sense of calm. you finished arranging the silverware, trying to focus on the task, but the scent of freshly cooked eggs and the warmth of minji’s voice were hard to ignore.

minji emerged from the kitchen, carrying a tray with practiced ease. her movements were graceful, almost too perfect for such a simple task. “you’ve set everything so beautifully,” she remarked, her dark eyes meeting yours briefly before she set the tray down. there was an intensity in her gaze that made your heart quicken, though her tone remained gentle.

you busied yourself with adjusting a plate, your fingers fidgeting under her watchful eyes. “thank you... you make everything look so easy,” you murmured, trying not to let your voice tremble. minji chuckled softly, her eyes never leaving you. “i’ve had a lot of time to perfect the little things,” she said with a cryptic smile, her words hanging in the air. time—what did she mean by that? the question lingered, but before you could ask, she gestured toward the chair beside her. “come, sit with me.”

as you sat down, your thoughts still swirling with uncertainty, haerin appeared at the entrance of the dining room, her eyes narrowing slightly as she took in the scene. “i was looking for you earlier,” she said, her voice low but pointed. you glanced at her. “sorry... haerin-unnie,” you mumbled, eyes downcast. she approached, her fingers brushing lightly over your shoulder, a fleeting touch that sent a shiver down your spine. “don’t do it again,” she whispered, her lips barely curving into a smile before she turned to join her sister at the table.

with both sisters seated on either side of you, the tension in the air was palpable. minji’s calm, steady presence contrasted sharply with haerin’s quiet intensity, leaving you caught between their different energies. as minji served the food, her movements so close you could feel the warmth of her arm, you couldn’t help but wonder—how long could you stay balanced between them?

you tried to steady your breath as minji poured tea into your cup, the delicate clink of porcelain breaking the silence between the three of you. her movements were elegant, precise, like everything she did was part of some silent performance. you found yourself staring at the way her fingers wrapped around the teapot handle—long, slender, but there was a quiet strength in them that both unsettled and intrigued you. she caught you looking and smiled faintly, a smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes.

“you don’t have to be so nervous, you know,” she said, her voice low and smooth. “you’re safe here, yn. as long as you follow the house rules.”

haerin, who had been quietly watching from across the table, let out a small huff, leaning back in her chair with an amused smirk playing on her lips. “minji, you always scare them with that ‘house rules’ speech.” her tone was light, but there was a sharpness behind it. “besides, it’s not like we bite… at least, not without permission.”

your eyes darted between them, unsure how to respond. minji shot haerin a brief glance, her expression unreadable, but you could feel the tension simmering just beneath the surface. haerin's teasing words lingered in the air, and though you laughed nervously, you couldn’t shake the feeling that there was truth hidden in her jest.

minji reached out, placing her hand lightly on your wrist. the touch was gentle, but it held you in place, drawing your attention back to her. “don’t mind her,” she said softly, her thumb brushing over your skin. “you’re our guest, and we’ll take care of you. isn’t that what you wanted?”

the question caught you off guard, pulling at the thoughts you had been trying to suppress since you arrived. was this what you wanted? the quiet luxury, the sense of safety, the promise of something more? your life had been nothing but chaos, a constant struggle to survive, and now here you were—caught in the orbit of these two enigmatic sisters, both offering something you hadn’t known you craved. and yet, the unease remained. could you really trust them?

before you could answer, haerin stood, her chair scraping softly against the floor. “i’m going for a walk,” she announced, casting a final glance at you. “if you decide you want some fresh air, come find me.” she didn’t wait for a response, disappearing down the hallway with her usual silent grace.

left alone with minji, the air felt heavier, more intimate. she still hadn’t let go of your wrist, her touch lingering longer than necessary. when she finally withdrew her hand, her gaze softened, as if she could sense the storm of emotions churning within you.

“take your time adjusting,” she said, standing and gathering the empty plates with practiced ease. “this place… it’s not for everyone, but i think you’ll come to appreciate it. and us.”

she smiled again, that same enigmatic curve of her lips, and with that, she disappeared back into the kitchen, leaving you alone with your thoughts.

***

after a few days living there and wanders through all the rooms, you found yourself with nothing left to do. the silence of the house felt strange and a little unsettling after the business of the orphanage. you weren’t used to having free time, and you weren’t sure how to spend it. at first, you thought about going back to the library, where you felt comfortable, but the nice weather outside caught your attention.

a walk in the garden sounded nice.

then, a new idea came to you—flowers. the garden could use some color, and maybe minji would like that too. feeling excited, you decided to skip the library and instead made your way to minji’s room. you knocked on the door gently, a little nervous but hoping she’d agree.

"come in, i didn’t lock the door."

you stepped inside, and the sight before you took your breath away. minji was in her room, draped in soft fabrics that hugged her form in all the right places. her hair cascaded around her shoulders, framing her face in a way that made your heart race. the dim light filtering through the curtains created a warm glow, emphasizing her delicate features. she looked ethereal, almost otherworldly, and you couldn't help but feel a flutter of excitement at the sight of her.

“what brings you here so early?” minji asked, her voice smooth like velvet. there was a softness in her gaze that made you feel both comfortable and exhilarated, as if she could see right into your thoughts.

you hesitated for a moment, trying to find the right words. “i was thinking... the garden could use some flowers, and i thought you might want to come with me to pick some.”

minji’s expression shifted slightly, her playful demeanor softening. “oh, sweetie, that sounds lovely,” she replied, her tone warm. “but i really need to rest and i have to be ready for... other things.”

you felt a pang of disappointment, but you understood. “right, of course. you need your rest.”

“but,” she said, leaning closer, a teasing smile playing on her lips, “you’re welcome to go on your own. who knows, maybe you’ll find something beautiful out there.”

you swallowed hard, feeling a rush of warmth at the way she was looking at you. “maybe I will,” you replied, trying to sound casual even as your heart raced.

“just remember, if you find something special, you’ll have to show me when you get back.” her gaze held yours for a moment longer, a spark of something electric passing between you.

“i will,” you promised, your voice barely a whisper. as you turned to leave, you couldn’t shake the feeling of her eyes on you, a lingering warmth that stayed with you as you made your way to the garden.

stepping outside, the fresh air washed over you, but the image of minji lingered in your mind—her beauty, her laughter, and the way her presence made everything feel just a little more intense. you took a deep breath, determined to find the perfect flowers, even if it meant doing so alone.

***

the path to the market felt very familiar. back at the orphanage, you were often sent by the chef—who still had a conscience and didn’t report you when you stole some snacks from the kitchen—to shop. your mind wandered again. is this really okay? leaving them suffering in that orphanage alone? but you quickly pushed those thoughts away. when an opportunity arises, you must take full advantage of it.

you encountered a few acquaintances—the market vendors—who were taken aback by your appearance. “uh, yeah. someone rich adopted me!”

upon arriving at the flower shop, you spent a while selecting and inhaling the scents of the flowers. you approached the owner and asked them to send someone to plant flowers in the castle garden—with minji and haerin's permission, of course. you settled on white peonies and cherry blossoms for minji, and black dahlias with dark purple orchids for haerin.

you hummed softly on the way back, deciding to stop by the bakery you used to visit with your parents when you were little. ha… the interior of this bakery hadn’t changed at all, and the smell was exactly as you remembered. after ordering a pain au chocolat and a cup of cappuccino, you chose to sit by the window, watching people go by.

your family used to be very wealthy until a problem caused your parents to divorce, losing their fortune and abandoning you on the streets. you pushed those memories far away, even though you still lived in the same city as them—wondering if they still remembered you after the issue ended five years ago. maybe you could visit other places with minji and haerin later. this time, you went straight home after finishing your food and drink.

as you made your way back to the castle, your mind raced with thoughts of minji. the flowers in your hands felt like a bridge between you, a gesture of gratitude for the kindness she had shown you. but beneath that gratitude lay a hint of confusion. could it be that minji saw you differently than you intended? you shook your head, dismissing the notion. she was a figure of strength and beauty, almost like a maternal presence, someone who offered you solace in a world that had shown you little kindness.

when you entered the castle, you found haerin in the living room, her feline grace contrasting sharply with the imposing architecture. she looked up, her gaze assessing. “where were you?” she asked, an edge of concern lacing her tone.

“the market,” you replied, holding up the bouquet as if it would validate your actions. “i got flowers for you and minji.”

her expression shifted slightly, a flicker of something unreadable crossing her face. “you didn’t tell me you were going out. you should have asked first.”

“i—”

“it’s not about that,” she cut you off, her voice softening. “just be careful. you never know what could happen out there.”

your mind raced as haerin’s words sank in, but something still didn’t add up. the timing, the way she spoke—there was more to her confession. you weren’t naive; it wasn’t just a warning. something darker, something bitter, lingered beneath the surface of her words. jealousy. you could feel it, even though she hadn’t said it outright. haerin wanted something—no, someone—that wasn’t hers.

you took a shaky breath. “why tell me all of this now, haerin? if you’re trying to protect me, why make it sound like you’re... bitter?”

she gave a small, sharp laugh, her eyes narrowing slightly. “you think i’m bitter?” her tone was mocking, but there was a flicker of something real behind it. “maybe you’re right. but it’s not because i’m jealous of you.”

a chill crept over you. “then what?”

haerin stepped closer, her voice low as she spoke. “it’s because you’re not who you think you are, yn. you’re playing a part you don’t even know about. this isn’t some fairytale where you get adopted by a rich woman and live happily ever after. you were brought here for a reason.”

“what reason?” your voice came out sharper than you expected, frustration edging into fear. “what are you talking about?”

she hesitated, her gaze hardening as if weighing her next words. then, with an almost dismissive shrug, she dropped the bombshell: “we’re vampires.”

the room seemed to tilt for a second, your breath caught in your throat. it couldn’t be. vampires? it sounded ridiculous, impossible—but the look in her eyes said she wasn’t lying. the blood drained from your face, your hands shaking slightly.

you backed up, trying to process the words, but before you could respond, the door swung open with a force that made your heart lurch. minji stood there, her usually calm face twisted in fury. “haerin,” she growled, voice sharp as ice, “what the hell did you just do?”

you saw it then—minji’s eyes, no longer just a deep brown, now gleaming with something unnatural. anger. hunger. her gaze flicked to you, and for the first time, you felt fear crawl up your spine. she was taller, more imposing in that moment, her presence dominating the room.

“you weren’t supposed to know yet,” minji hissed, stepping toward you, her movements too fluid, too quick. “you weren’t ready.” the rage in her eyes flickered with something else, something primal. you stepped back, your heart pounding in your ears.

“i—i didn’t—” you tried to form words, but they wouldn’t come. your back hit the wall, and suddenly, minji was inches away. her eyes darkened, and you could feel her breath on your neck, the air shifting as she leaned in closer, too close.

you froze, terror gripping your chest as you realized what she might do. her lips brushed your skin, cold and soft, and for a moment, the world narrowed to just her touch. then her teeth grazed your neck.

“minji!” haerin’s voice cut through the tension like a whip, snapping minji out of whatever trance she was in. she stepped back, blinking as if waking from a dream. for a second, her face softened—then the fury returned, but this time it wasn’t directed at you.

“you did this,” minji snarled, turning to haerin, her voice low and dangerous. “she wasn’t supposed to know yet.”

you gasped, stumbling away from them, your hand clutching your neck where you could still feel the ghost of her touch. the fear and confusion twisted inside you, but there was something else—a deep sadness, a realization that maybe this great opportunity wasn’t what it seemed. everything was unraveling so quickly.

as you backed away from them, memories of your past flooded back—your family, the life you had lost. it was all connected, somehow. the reason you’d ended up in the orphanage, the secrets your parents had kept from you. they hadn’t abandoned you because of money or misfortune. no, it was something more twisted. your parents had once been part of a world like this, a world of power and darkness. you were caught in the middle of something far older than you had known.

you clutched the side of your head, the memories flashing too quickly. your mother’s distant eyes, the arguments late at night when they thought you weren’t listening, the day they left you at the orphanage, telling you it was for your own safety. everything clicked into place.

“i should’ve known,” you muttered under your breath, looking back at minji with wide, terrified eyes. “this wasn’t a coincidence. i look like him, don’t i? your husband.”

minji’s gaze softened, but the sadness in her eyes was undeniable. she didn’t deny it.

and in that moment, you realized this was much bigger than you could have ever imagined. maybe you were just another piece in their long, immortal game—used to fill the void of their eternal loss.

as the warmth of minji's bite coursed through your veins, the world seemed to shift. a flood of memories that didn’t belong to you rushed into your mind—fragments of another life, another time. you staggered slightly, clutching minji’s arm as flashes of faces, voices, and emotions overwhelmed you. one face in particular stood out—a man’s, someone who felt strangely familiar. his voice echoed in your head, filled with love and devotion... for minji.

“i remember him,” you whispered, your voice barely audible. “i remember... being him.”

minji’s eyes widened in shock, her grip tightening around your arm. there was a flicker of recognition, of something deep and ancient between you. “it can’t be,” she murmured, her voice trembling. “you’re... you’re him, reincarnated.” her words were barely above a whisper, but the weight of them crushed you. the memories, the feelings—they weren’t just fragments; they were yours.

it made sense now. the pull you’d felt toward minji, the unexplainable connection, the way her face had felt so familiar, like something out of a dream. you had been her husband, a lifetime ago. the man who chose mortality over immortality.

“he didn’t want to live forever,” you muttered, piecing it together. “he refused to become what you are.” the revelation hit you hard, and you looked up at her, searching her eyes for answers. “that’s why he left, isn’t it?”

minji’s expression shifted, sorrow filling her eyes as she nodded. “he couldn’t bear the thought of eternity. he chose to live a normal life, to die. but he promised... he promised he would find me again, somehow.”

the air in the room thickened with the weight of those words. you had been brought back to her, against all odds, against time itself. and now, you were standing in front of her once more, caught in the web of fate.

haerin’s gaze flickered with a mix of emotions—jealousy, frustration, and something deeper, a bitterness that had built up over years. “you always win, don’t you, minji?” her voice cracked, the mask of coldness slipping away to reveal the hurt beneath. “even after all this time, even after everything... you still get what you want.”

minji looked at her, pain in her eyes, but there was nothing she could say to soothe her sister’s wounds. “haerin…”

“no, don’t,” haerin cut her off, her voice hollow now. “i need to go.” she turned away from the two of you, her steps deliberate but heavy. “i can’t stay here anymore.” she paused at the door, her silhouette framed by the dim light of the castle’s hallway. “take care of her,” she whispered, almost too softly to hear. then, without another word, she disappeared into the night, leaving the castle quieter than it had ever been.

you stood there, unsure of what to say, unsure if there was anything to be said. but minji’s hand found yours, squeezing gently, grounding you in that moment. her eyes, once filled with rage and hunger, now only held a quiet sorrow.

“i’m sorry,” she whispered, her voice barely audible, the weight of her confession heavy in the air.

weeks passed, the castle settling into a new rhythm without haerin’s presence. and soon, everything started to fall into place—your memories, the truth of your past. you weren’t just some random girl caught in their world. you were the reincarnation of minji’s husband, the one who had chosen death over the curse of immortality. you had been given a second chance, a chance to live again, but fate had brought you back into the very world you had tried to escape.

and yet, this time, you didn’t run.

three months later, the castle felt more like a home. the cold, stone walls were softened by the warmth of life within them. the garden bloomed with the flowers you had planted, a mix of color and life that mirrored the changes in your own heart. the past no longer felt like a burden—it was part of you, and part of minji.

one evening, you sat at the long dining table, minji by your side, your parents across from you. the room was lit by soft, golden light, the warm glow of candles filling the space. laughter echoed through the halls as you shared stories and memories, the tension of your earlier days here forgotten.

minji’s hand rested on yours, her touch familiar and comforting. your parents, who had been lost to you for so long, had accepted this strange, new life you had found. the weight of the past had lifted, replaced by a new beginning.

you looked at minji, and she smiled—a smile that carried a hundred years of longing and love. and for the first time, you felt truly at peace. this was where you were meant to be, not just as minji’s eternal love but as part of a family once more.

and haerin? wherever she was, you hoped she found her own peace, away from the shadows of the past.

as the night went on, the warmth in the room grew, not just from the fire crackling in the hearth, but from the love shared around the table. for the first time in your life, you felt truly whole.

and in that moment, everything felt right.

maybe aquariums aren’t so bad after all

pt. 1 > pt. 2

kim minji x fem!reader x uchinaga aeri

synopsis: y/n thought she had moved on. but when aeri—her enigmatic first love, returns after five years of silence, old feelings resurface, threatening to disrupt the relationship she's built with minji—the person who now holds her heart. as y/n navigates an emotional storm of unresolved tension and buried memories, she is drawn back into aeri’s world, seeking the closure she’s always needed.

warnings: minji and reader kissed; not proofread; messy and cringe(?) at some parts.

a/n: there’s actually so much potential for this fic but i’m just in the mood to post somehow so, yeah.

after the lecture ends, you and minji stayed in the completely empty lecture hall in silence.

“what were you saying?” you asked minji again even though you heard her the first time, you were too frightened with the thought of telling her abour aeri. what would she say? what if she decided to stay away from you? you couldn’t risk it, she’s the most important person in your life.

“who really is ms. aeri? you look very angry when we meet her yesterday at the aquarium, and now you’re drooling all over her...” she played with the hem of your sweater, looking down.

“i’ll tell you when i’m ready okay? until then, stay by my side okay?” you give minji a reassuring smile though your mind panicked when you catch a glimpse of aeri outside the lecture hall.

you still have a few classes today so minji went home first—preparing the things to bake a cake. you didn’t meet aeri for the rest of the day and minji picks you up when all of your classes are done. linking arms together, you two walked to the parking lot while discussing your tasks for the baking session—yet again, you catch a glance with aeri, she was there with one of her old friend in her office that’s just by the parking lot.

***

“why are they suddenly so close?” aeri asked her friend, walking together to a nearby cafe.

“aeri honey, you were away for five years. what makes you think that y/n would wait for you that long?” karina’s confused voice answered her question with another question.

“i don’t know... perhaps, this promise ring?” aeri put up her left hand, a cartier ring perfectly coiled there.

“well, did you see she still wear her’s?” checkmate, she doesn’t know. aeri bit the insides of her cheeks in frustation, she’s anxious again, “you guys seriously need to talk aeri. resolve the old feelings y’know.”

“how?” aeri played with the ring on her finger, she thinks you must’ve hate her.

“i’ll tell you what, i’ll arrange a dinner with her family for opening. i still keep in touch with her mo–”

“deal!”

while aeri and karina talks about the plan to resolve the old feelings, you and minji were busy falling in love. well, at least the chemicals in your body produces lots of oxytocin when minji helps you decorate the cake and her lips were inches away from yours.

“minji,” she turned her face to look at you and you swear it almost give you a heart attack, your heart is beating so loud and your face started to get red you’re afraid minji might notice it.

“y-you, you’re too close...” you quickly focuses back to the cake to distract the fact that you can feel her breath against your lips.

“o-oh, sorry.” she pulled back from the kitchen counter, rubbing the back of her neck—internally screaming.

“yeah, i don’t mind.” you managed to keep your cool and flirty demeanor and slightly smirked towards her, the cake is almost done. after some finishing touches, a cake with a cute and pretty impressive decoration is placed on the dining table.

“who’s gonna have the first bite?” you asked, giving minji a fork.

“how about we just feed each other at the same time so we could have the first taste together?” minji suggest and idea that you quickly agreed to. you both laughed after tasting the chocolate cake, tasty.

“woah, we should probably open a bakery look how talented we are...” minji laughed so cutely, suddenly you don’t know what made the cake so sweet.

after some more eating and cleaning up the mess that were left, you and minji tucked in yourselves on the couch and turn on the good old classic romcom, The Notebook. you both stayed quiet and really pay attention to the movie despite this is the 17th time you watched it together until near the end of the movie. you snuggled closer to minji, resting your head on her arm. she looked down for a moment and thought, ‘she looks so good right now i can kiss her...’ then just out of sudden rush of courage and impulsive act, she tilts your chin up and before you can ask her what is she doing or calculate what might happen, she pressed her lips onto yours. you can almost taste the strawberry chapstick she always use while instinctively recipocrating her kiss, you both smile into the kiss, only pulling back when you two run out of breath.

“w-whaaat?” you sit back up on the couch, wiping the excess saliva left on your lips.

“i’m– i just did it out of impulsiveness and i’m sorry but,” minji paused to wipe her lips too, “i didn’t know that you’ll kiss me back.” she continued with a flirty tone.

“so, uh, you-you like me?” you don’t know what kind of expression you should put but you’re sure it must be so chaotic.

“since 8th grade...” she answered with a nod and you two just sit face to face on the couch, cheeks still red and lips still swollen.

“so are girlfriends now or what?” you finally break the silence, still trying to gain composure.

“if you’d like to.”

“oh please, i nearly couldn’t form a coherent sentence right now and you’re asking me if i want to be your girlfriend?” you hugged minji and you picked another movie to watch after—decided to do a marathon of ghibli films.

minji spend the night after—as you promised earlier. and almost like a routine, you wait for her to fall asleep, scutinizing every single movement of her breathing and traced her features before going to sleep. you’ve always put your phone on do not disturb mode whenever you’re with minji, so the next morning when you wake up, you’re quite surprised seeing dozens of texts from your mother inviting you to dinner with aeri and karina.

as you watch minji sleep last night, you’ve decided to let go of the past and choose to focus on your relationship with minji. you do want to hear an explanation from aeri though, you replied to your mother, asking is aeri spent the night there. she didn’t but your mother gave aeri your number. lucky for you, aeri messaged you first when you’re still contemplating on asking your mother for aeri’s number.

( aeri: hey

aeri: are you free today?

aeri: i hope we can resolve the things between us

aeri: say, let’s eat lunch together at the new restaurant that just opened downtown? )

***

as soon as minji wakes up, eat breakfast and shower, you explaines to her about aeri. her expression was... normal? but when you tell her you’re going to eat lunch with her and possibly resolve things, she pouts incredibly cute—clinging to your arm.

“do you have to meet her today?” you give a peck on her pouty lips, you rarely sees the clingy side of minji.

“the sooner the better, sweetheart.” you caress her hands, give her one more assuring words and lots of kisses before going out to the said restaurant.

you drive to where the restaurant is located—which turned out to be stone’s throw from the aquarium you visited yesterday. instead of playing your playlist and sing your lungs out like you used to did, you started to construct the conversation you’d possibly have with aeri. you take confident steps towards the entrance, but as soon as you see her wrapped in an elegant but casual black dress, red rosy lips, holding a glass of martini the memories flows back in. you gulped before walking up to her, cracking the best (awkward) smile.

“ms. aeri? have you been waiting long?” you take a seat in front of her, still using the honorific, “did you order yet?” your eyes darted across the room, unable to directly look into her eyes.

aeri hummed in response, “i ordered you a ceasar salad too.” you quitly say thank you, you both stayed quiet until your plates are empty and aeri orders another glass of martini.

you silently contemplate in your seat, heart beating faster than you’d like to admit. the memories of your relationship with her, the good times, and the heartbreak flood your mind, but you keep your composure. this isn't about falling back into old habits; it's about getting answers.

aeri takes a sip of her martini, her eyes scanning your face, as though gauging how much has changed in the time they’ve been apart. she begins to talk. “i know i owe you an explanation,” she begins, her voice calm but a little hesitant. “i didn’t come back because... i thought i could offer you more by staying away.”

“you thought leaving me for five years without a word would somehow be better?” you frowned, fingers clenching around the water glass in front of you. your gaze were still on the other side of the room though.

aeri sets down her drink, leaning forward. “at the time, yes. i wanted to become someone you could be proud of. someone who wasn’t just your father’s assistant. i thought if i could establish myself, we could finally be on equal ground.”

“that’s not what I wanted, aeri.” your voice shakes, “i didn’t need you to be something else. i needed you to be here.”

“i see that now. but back then, i thought i was doing the right thing. i worked hard, hoping that when i came back, we could pick up where we left off... but time passed. you grew up, and i was still stuck in the past, holding onto something i wasn’t sure you even wanted anymore.” a familiar chuckle flows through your ears as aeri’s expression softens, regret seeping into her features.

you felt the weight of those words. part of you had been waiting, even if you didn’t want to admit it, but the more time passed, the more you found yourself leaning on minji. the more minji filled the gaps aeri had left behind.

“you’re right,” you said quietly, finally meeting aeri’s gaze after so long, “i did grow up. i’m not the same person i was when you left. and i think… i needed you to come back sooner if we ever had a chance.” a familiar chuckle flows through your ears, a small smile tugging on her lips—though it’s bittersweet.

“i really missed my window didn’t i?” aeri sighs, running a hand through her hair, “i know. but i had to tell you, y/n. i couldn’t just let things end the way they did, without you knowing that i never meant to hurt you.”

“i appreciate that,” you replied with a softer tone, finally being able to relax, “i think i needed to hear it, too.”

for the first time in the conversation, there’s a sense of peace between you two. it’s not the kind of peace that rekindles a relationship but the kind that offers closure—a finality that allows both of you to move on.

“I’m glad you found someone like minji.” after a brief silence, aeri reaches across the table and squeezes your hand.

“i’m sorry for everything. i hope this gives you the closure you need.”

“it does,” you admit, “and i hope you find happiness too, with karina perhaps?” you laughed along with her.

you exchange a final, lingering look before stands up to leave, a weight lifted off your shoulders. you know that this chapter with aeri is finally closed, and as you stepped out of the restaurant and into the sunlight, you feel ready to fully embrace the future—with minji.

back at home, you returned to minji’s side, her heart lighter. you wrapped your arms around minji, pulling her close. when Minji looks up at you with those bright eyes, there’s no hesitation in your mind anymore. you know who you want to be with, and you’re ready to give minji all the love she deserves.

“so... how did it go?” minji asks, her voice a little shaky but curious.

“it’s over,” you replied softly, kissing minji’s forehead, “i’m with you now, and that’s all that matters.”

minji smiles, burying her face in your chest, and for the first time in a long while, you felt at peace, ready to build a future with the person who was there all along.

maybe aquariums aren’t so bad after all.

pt.1 > pt.2

kim minji x fem!reader x uchinaga aeri

synopsis: as you began to validate your feelings for minji, the bottled feelings bubbled up and resurfaces. we couldn’t really let go of the past, i think.

warnings: pedophilia?!??; avoidant coping mechanism ; broken humor + english; not proofread; intented lowercase; lmk if i miss anything!

a/n: this is my first ever fic after not writing for quite a bit of time so lmk if there’s any room for improvement (there always will be actually...) also i didn’t expect that it would be this long and random😭😭😭

you woke up in the middle of the night to your phone buzzing in your hand, ‘king michael jackson🕺🤺’ being the caller’s id. you quickly answered the call, minji’s husky voice meets your ear as soon as you said ‘hello’ with a hoarsy voice.

“you’re still awake?” minji asked, to which you replied, “if you don’t say what you want right now i’m getting back to sleep.”

“alright, alright! uhm... i’m in front of your door step...” you checked the time and it’s LITERALLY 2AM, you rushed to the door finding minji with a rosy tint spread across her face.

“again? get in here it’s freezing!” sometimes you even wonder why the two of you are friends as you brew a pot of tea and she sneaks up to your back, huggimg you with a stupid smile. yeah, why are you even friends? you two should be dating by now. it’s a routine by now that minji would come at your door whenever she couldn’t sleep at night, and you’d serve her a cup of tea with honey, talking about random things until she’s finally tired and asks you to go to bed with her—you enjoyed every second of the routine obviously. waking up with minji in your arm, her pillow face and messy hair, always give you a reason to stay alive. now here you are again, tracing the precious features on her face, noticing her slow breathing pattern—the way her chest moves up and down rythmically—the soft glow from the clown fish night lamp that she bought for you for your 9th birthday gleaming behind her back (she has the one that shaped like a blue tang, like nemo and dory). you slowly close your eyes as the girl in your arm snuggles closer and tomorrow you both will get ready in haste, regretting (you both know you'll do it again and again) the midnight conversation.

***

“at this point you two should move in together,” one of the girl in minji’s class, hanni pham, lazily sips her coffe. the class was cancelled because the professor—mrs. kang—fell down the stairs, and you were trying so hard to hold back the laughter when mrs. kang’s assistant inform the lecture was dissmissed and you’re free to go tp anywhere you like.

“you’re practically living together anyway.” she shifts her gaze towards your hand, which somehow intertwined with minji’s.

“and i’m the one talking while these two love birds are dating in front of me!” she slams her hand on the table gently, you look up to her and say, “hey it’s cold and we didn’t bring any heatpack plus i think this is a good way to warm our hands too, bonding time ’yknow.” you smile to minji which gives you an approving nod.

“okay, i’m gonna look for danielle and let you two act so tooth-achingly sweet.” hanni packs her bag and hurriedly leaves you two. to be honest you didn’t even know what makes you warm, minji’s hands or the fact that you’re holding hands with minji. you’ve done it countless times but lately if feels.... different? but since minji seems so nonchalant about the fact that you are practically dating or the way you two act behind closed doors. you shake your head to banish the thoughts and continued reading.

fortunately for you, before the thoughts roam back and you couldn’t focus on your reading anymore, danielle and hanni comes back with lunch! remnants of annoyance have completely gone from hanni’s face and the four of you discussed about random girl things while eating.

“hey y/n mind if i come over to your house? i left my keys there this morn-” before minji could finish her sentence, hanni exclaimed, “see?! dating!”

“yo hanni pham at this point i believe you’re in love with y/n-unnie.” danielle laughed in amusement.

***

as planned earlier, minji comes over to your house to pick up her keys. you decided to brew another pot of tea while minji searches for her keys, you were concered about what might happen to your bedroom.

“i swear i left it on your nightstand!”

“check my desk,” continues to chew bread, making another one for minji, rumbling noises soon be heard as minji proudly hold out her keys in front of you, “hehe, thank you y/n~” you swear her little giggles always sent you off, you were frozen for a moment before snaps back to reality.

“hey btw, my professor said someone will cover her up while she’s recovering.”

“i wonder how will they look, i hope it’s a pretty woman.” almost immediately, minji scoffed, “so you can drool through the whole lecture? nuh uh girl, this is not high school, i’m not taking notes for you to copy anymore.” you step closer towards minji, holding her cheeks in your hands.

“aww, jealous? of course not, pretty people are more bearable sweetie. now ’cmon let’s give that new ice cream shop a chance.”

***

“ha, it looks like auntie diva’s strawberry shortcake ice cream will never be replaced...” minji sigh in dissappointment, you two have been competing to find a better strawberry shotcake flavored ice cream since you go-to ice cream shop has closed because the owner moved overseas.

“where’d you wanna go next? i still have a few hours before my study session, i’ll just tag along.”

“you’d follow me anywhere?”

“as long as i’m alive.” you shrugged your shoulder in a nonchalant manner even though your heart could literally burst out right now.

who knew the place kim minji picked would be one of your biggest nightmare, aquarium. you refused to come inside and had to wait outside the last time you went there with minji and her family—technically it’s her, your parents and her parents.

“seriously kim?!??” even though you decide to follow minji inside and give aquarium a second chance, your voice is heavy with noticeable fear and annoyance, holding tightly to minji’s arm. the two of you pass halls and halls full of ocean creatures, until you reached the peak performance, walking tunnels with gallons and gallons of water above you ready to explode due to minor inconvenience!

“y/n, ’cmon this is the way out and we’ll buy plushies from the gift shop.” minji were so close to drag you inside the tunnel before you remember that you’d follow minji anywhere she’ll go. with a gulp, you nervously step inside the moving floor of the tunnel.

“see? we’re gonna be fine, enjoy the view sweetie.” she started to take more pictures of you together, admiring a shark passing by or pointing towards a weird ass looking fish. by then you thought, ‘huh. maybe aquariums weren’t so bad after all, the memories have slowly fading too...’ you start to enjoy the scene near the end of the tunnel as you catch a glimpse of a familiar face admiring the beauty alone. long, straight brunette hair being clipped messily, white shirt and black glasses, paired with a chic hand bag. you take steps closer towards the woman to clarify her identity. she opens her mouth at the same time as you, looking as shocked.

“y/n?” “aeri-unnie?”

the reason was here, the reason you never wanted to go to aquariums was here. you quickly grabbed confused minji’s hand and pace your way out—didn’t stop to buy plushies from the gift shop. you drive in silence as minji didn’t dare to utter a word in front of your angry face, after taking minji to a restautant—still in silence—you dropped her at her house without saying anything.

fuck, fuck, fuck. you should’ve known, sooner or later that she would come back and you wouldn't be able to hold it back. you couldn't sleep all night, only to come to school to encounter that nightmare.

“morning class, let me briefly introduce myself. my name is aeri uchinaga, you can call me ms. uchinaga and i’ll be replacing mrs. kang until her ankle is fully healed.” you tried to shift your focus to the whiteboard but the way aeri walks, and the way she talks...

“y/n, can you please explain problem number 5?”

***

aeri was the love of your life. or at least that’s what you thought when you first met her as a junior assistant at your father’s research lab. you two have a lot in common, from your favorite angle while talking selfie to your motto—when life gives you lemons, make mojitos. you two eventually grow closer more than ‘father’s research friends’ and ‘boss’ daughter’ and dated when you entered high school. no one knew about this relationship but it was wrong, of course, but your father got caught up with his work and your mother didn’t really pay attention to you. aeri was 23 and you were 16. even though you’re the one suggesting that you two should wait until you turn 21 before started dating again, you still bawl your eyes out when aeri decided to take new opportunities overseas. after whispering promises she’d be back before your 21th birthday, she flew to new york city while you stayed in korea.

you study hard to enter forensic science major while minji pursue art major, you kept the secret so well that the only person that knew about this were only you, aeri, and God. 3 years later, she didn’t come back and your heart finally seeks for new opportunity. the girl that have always stayed by your side, kim minji. it’s inevitable that you fell in love with her, you grew up together and spend most of the times of your life seeing each other’s faces—though when you dated aeri she’s more often questioning your whereabouts and made new friends.

aquariums. aeri have took you to countless aquariums in the country—besides the fact that her job deals with marine animals daily. you always listened to her with glimmering eyes full of adoration and amaze, her explanation is always so easy to comprehend. you avoid aquariums ever since aeri moved overseas.

now here you are again, listening to her easy-to-comprehend lecture. you didn’t knew that she take a turn to forensic science, that got you thinking, was that the reason she didn’t keep her promises? to study the subject that intrigues you the most and explain it to you the way she used to explain the noticeable difference in blue tang’s pattern? before the thought continues even further, a pair of arms sneaks into your waist, nearly making you scream.

“it’s me your girlfriend minji! i sneaked in because you seem distracted.” God, minji’s tiny voice still makes you weak, yet the voice of the woman in front of you sound so nostalgic. you didn’t want to think about these matter of feelings anymore. you took a piece of paper, wrote a little note and slide it to minji.

‘i’m sorry about yesterday. i wasn’t supposed to give you the silent treatment.’

minji took a peek quietly as if it was her lecture and aeri would send her out if she’s not listening, you grinned remembering your high school days. and it doesn’t slip off from aeri’s sharp observation, she still remembers that stupid grin of yours whenever you’re at ease or pleased and she silently curses at herself for not coming back at the time she promised you to. she leaves the lecture room while eyeing you and minji after giving assignments. seconds later, minji pushes back the paper.

‘yeah, i do feel sad... if you let me stay over at your house the whole week i’ll forgive you😋’

you give her a small agreeing nod and focuses back on writing the important parts of the lecture matterial from aeri’s laptop that were projected, you felt a tap on your arm.

“also, who the fuck is aeri?”