Archive of Our Own ^beta

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As a broke college student, you never hoped of getting good seats to the Ateez concert, but with sheer luck on your side you find reasonably cheap resale tickets sorta close to the stage. About 4 or 5 rows away from the stage, breaking the bank a bit but lets be real, so worth every penny. Thanks to this young girl’s father who let you have his seat to get a better look you were only 3 rows from the stage. His daughter clearly didn't tell him about the pirate mafia stripper gang (get it lol) he was going to see and realized this show would be more enjoyed by someone who is into the band as his daughter is. Chills shoot throughout your body creating goosebumps from excitement. Anticipation builds in your stomach as the music videos play and the sun lowers itself more from the sky.

Finally the show begins and everybody, including yourself, shouts and screams with excitement. Butterflies are doing backflips in your stomach with the excitement of the show and how confident you feel from your concert outfit. You are wearing an “In Your Fantasy” inspired outfit with a frilly mini skirt, crop top that leaves little to the imagination, and leather jacket. This is the most confident you have felt in weeks, having gotten multiple compliments from the very kind Atinys, you are feeling ecstatic. The performance is phenomenal, with the outfits and all of your favorite songs, you are left speechless, not including all the screaming and barking you partake in. While you could never really pick a bias for Ateez since all of them have your heart, Wooyoung and Hongjoong tend to be the members you lean towards the most, so imagine your excitement when the members are doing the rounds across the stage and both San and Wooyoung wave towards your area. San whispers something into Woo’s ear causing him to giggle and lock eyes with you. They continue to mess around and chat with themselves, occasionally glancing towards your direction. Officially flabbergasted about that interaction as you proceed to jump and scream as Bouncy starts to play. While you aren't great at dancing in general you have spent countless hours learning and rehearsing this song along with many others from over the years. You feel yourself becoming blissful and confident as you hit every beat. All the practice has finally come in useful besides a good workout, it seems like it was all for this moment. While you are dancing and watching the members in complete awe, Yunho sees you and gives you a quick thumbs up before returning to the routine. The young girl beside you gets excited with you and shakes your arms yelling that he noticed you. The smile you had on your face for the rest of the show makes your cheeks hurt, but the pain is so worth it.

As the night nears its end a melancholy feeling starts bubbling up, trying to push it away you keep focus on the concert. If you were able to stop time you would stop it today. This day has been the happiest in the last few months, from having your heart broken by your boyfriend of 4 years just 2 months prior has been the downfall of your mood as of late. On that dreadful day you went to surprise him with flowers at his apartment. Imagine your surprise when you find him in bed with another girl doing less than appropriate activities. As you stand there for what feels like hours, you are left speechless and heart broken. Overcome with emotion, you throw the flowers at him, grab the cat you adopted together and leave. Now it was just you and Orian, black coat with golden eyes and the love of your life. When your ex tried to pick him up from your place a week later, Orion had hissed and scratched him, drawing blood. Fed up and pissed, he screamed at you to keep the damn cat and stormed out without speaking to you again. It's just been just you two most nights at your apartment, not that you're complaining. Besides your friends that come over to hang out every once in a while, it has been nice being single again. Taking that time to focus on yourself, your worth, and your last year of school has been much needed

When the concert comes to the end you let a few tears out, many different emotions come to the surface and you feel joy, sadness, and exhaustion all at the same time. Still in absolute shock from being able to actually see Ateez in person after all this time. Living in the Midwest can be rough when it comes to Kpop concerts since most artists don't tend to stop in any states close to you so you are very thankful for the fact that this tour had a stop relatively close to where you lived. Stepping out of the venue was one of the hardest things you've had to do lately, not just because it marks the end of one of the best nights of your life, but it also means you must face reality again. Back to school with your final project coming up, back to work, back to paying the bills you can barely afford. Calling an Uber to pick you up, you watch out the window at the street lights and people walking the late night roads. Trying to fully take in the experience you just had and being in utter awe from the day, to the other Atinys, at Ateez themselves, the whole day has been magical. Finally making it back to your apartment, you rummage through your fridge and find leftover pizza still sitting in its box. Plopping down on the couch you stuff your face with delectable cold slices as a very sleepy looking Orion walks up to you.

“I'm sorry buddy, did I wake you?” You scratch the top of his head as he hops up to curl beside you purring. Watching him close his eyes again you realize just how exhausted you are after finishing off the last piece of pizza. You slowly get off the couch trying not to disturb his sleep anymore, you throw the pizza box away and gently pick him up.

“Come on, let's get you to bed.” You coo as you shut all the lights off, triple check that the door is locked, and head to your room. After wiping all your makeup off and crawling into a shirt and pajama pants, you crash down into bed. It only takes a few seconds before the weight of the day hits you hard and knocks you the fuck out.

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When you finally wake up, well past your alarm, it feels like a truck has hit you. Every muscle in your body is sore and aching, even though you ate last night your stomach is near tearing itself apart. Looking at the clock it says 11:27, sighing you get out of bed and get ready for the day. Heading to the bathroom first to brush your unruly hair and wash your face. While you are brushing your teeth, Orion stomps in angrily meowing at you for being late to his breakfast. You quickly finish up and head to the kitchen to fill both of your stomachs. You give him a michelin star meal with fish oils and freeze dried whatnot while you eat a protein bar. He gets to eat like a king cause you love him just oh so much and you get to eat like the broke student you are. You should probably eat something more substantial but for now you settle for that and a coffee. Sundays are usually your reset days where you clean and get your life back together but with art projects piling up as the end of the semester nears, you decide to focus on school instead.

As much as it seems like being an art major is easy, it is in fact not for the weak and very time consuming. You have multiple projects to finish before starting your final project of the semester. Dr. Westley, your professor, is being very secretive about the assignment. He says that it will be very exciting and a high possibility that most of us will be traveling out of the country in order to work on it. The more elusive he is about it the more your nerves bubble to the surface, wanting to do a good job. You can't ponder for long though since there is work to be done.

Getting dressed in the classic hobo looking painting outfit with shorts, a very paint stained old t-shirt, and hair pulled out of your face you put your headphones on and get to work. Setting up all the paints, water, and an iced mocha you sit and stare at the blank canvas. After staring a bit too long you instinctively pick up your phone and scroll on Pinterest for a solid half hour. Saving pin after pin, doomscrolling through boards you've looked through dozens of times. With a loud sigh you put the phone down and pick up one of your paint tubes to just start something. While being creative has always come easy to you, trying to find something to inspire you has been a challenge. Lately you have been struggling to figure out concepts to paint about, nothing has really stuck out to you all that much. Dr Westley has mentioned that everyone has a niche, a muse, something or someone that has corrupted their mind and inspires them to focus their art on that. He says you just need to find yours and to not rush it, everything comes in due time. He has been a rock in your studies at university, acting like a father figure at school. While he is very wise and skilled at what he does, he tends to be a very silly person once you really get to know him. From wearing very eccentric clothes to talking about the entire inner working relationships in law and order, he makes going to class that much more enjoyable.

Aggressively laying your first coat of paint you huff still unsure of what the piece should be about. Pulling up the assignment requirements, you scan over them to try to string along an idea of what the painting could include. While you still don't have a “thing” to your art yet, music has always been one of the subjects you fall back on. Fitting since you are still on the high from the Ateez concert, it has consumed every waking thought at the moment so you decide an experimental piece related to music is good enough.

A few hours of work, 3 mochas, and a very nasty sip of your paint water later you decide to take a break. Giving Orion a few pets and kisses, you throw a hoody on and step out of your apartment locking it behind you. The fresh air that hits your face is welcomed after hunched over your painting for so long. You only take a few steps out of your apartment when your friend Hazel calls you.

“Hey what’s u-” Before you can finish your sentence she yells at you. “HAVE YOU SEEN WESTLEY’S EMAIL?”

“What email? I've been painting all day so I haven't checked.”

“He just released the final project details. Call me back after you look, you'll like what you are assigned I promise.” Once she finishes talking, she hangs up without giving you room to say anymore. Hazel has always been energetic, bursting through doors with a chaotic energy that steals the room's attention. While she can be a bit hectic, she is also the most driven person you've ever met and your closest friend. She has this energy that is so welcoming and understanding, like she’ll never judge you. Unfortunately you know all too well how judgmental she can be, in the most loving way possible. Side-eyeing people who are rude or making a subtle comment about someone's shoes here and there. Everyone has their perks, but Hazel is your ride or die. She would say the same for you, if either of you were in trouble the other was there to help. When she found out your ex cheated, she yelled and scolded him for 3o minutes while getting the rest of your stuff from his apartment.

Finally finding a bench you can settle on, you check your email to see what the fuss is about. Opening the attachment you read:

Final Project - Murals abroad.
Each student will travel to a different company for two months in order to complete two murals according to the requirements. Each company has agreed to pay for housing, travel, and a work stipend for those who have jobs. These companies have been willing to let us do this so please be respectful and not make me regret sending you guys out. I have paired each student with the company I feel would best suit them.

Below the introduction is the list of pairings. While some of your classmates have been sent to places like Italy or Brazil, Hazel was sent to California to do murals for Instagram. After a bit of searching to find your name, once you see the company and location you're sent to, your jaw drops. Never in your life would you think something like this would happen to you. Frantically pulling Hazel’s contact back up you yell into the phone:

“KQ?! WHEN YOU TOLD ME TO CHECK MY EMAIL YOU MEANT KQ?”

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You and Hazel talked for what seemed like hours, about KQ and what this could mean for you out of college. Her murals for Instagram and what she was thinking of painting for those.

“This is more than I could ever dream. Although the likelihood of me ever seeing any of the idols were slim they weren't entirely zero.” You gush to her, trying to wrap your head around what is happening.

“Girl you are so gonna get an NDA like how could you not. You're hot as fuck, super talented, and you have the most amazing soul on planet earth.”

“The only NDA I'm gonna be offered is the one I will probably have to sign when I do the murals. But I do appreciate you supporting my delusions.” You giggle out as you stand to head back to your apartment for dinner. “Listen all I'm saying is that it's unlikely I'll see them let alone form any sort of relationship with them. Sorry to say, it's not gonna happen to me, anyway, I'm heading back to my place to feed Orion and cook dinner, would you want to come over tonight?”

“Yeah absolutely, I can be there in like 20-ish minutes. That sounds good?” She exclaimed while she started to rummage for what you assume are her keys. You start to head back home while you continue to talk to her, admiring the trail as you walk. “Should I pick up some wine before I get there? We could do like a little movie night.”

“Oh my gosh, yess~!” You squeal, “That sounds like so much fun. I’m almost at my apartment so I'll see you when you get here, okay?”

“Okay sounds good, I love you, byeee~.” She hangs up as you put your key into the lock. Stepping through the door, Orion greets you with a chirp. You never could resist his precious little face and the way he meows at you is just the cutest. Once in the apartment you squat down and give him a good chin scratch before heading to make his dinner.

After a slightly stressful cooking session, the food you made is finally done. Although it's nothing too exciting, chicken alfredo has always been a major comfort food for you and with the excitement from the last 2 days it sounded perfect. As you finish setting up the table, a loud knock comes from the door. Hazel bursts through with wine and a smile, lighting up the whole room. You laugh at her energetic entrance as you greet her.

“Welcome home, I just finished up dinner, so perfect timing. How was your day today?” You ask as she plops down on her chair and starts scooping food onto her plate.

“It was okay, me and Tyler had an argument about me leaving for California. He just doesn't get it, like this is mother fucking Instagram we are talking about. Of course I'm going to put my art on their walls. He still hasn't gotten the fact that you can make a living off art.” She sighs as you give her a hug from behind before heading to your own seat. Her and Tyler have been together for a few years now, they just clicked from the moment they met. Lately though they've been having more issues in the relationship. He’s more critical of Hazel and has been kind of rude in general. She loves him so much though, you hope everything works out in the end.

“I'm sorry honey, hopefully he comes around soon. But hey, I'm so excited to see what you do with the murals. It's going to be a huge career booster.” You try to lift her spirits, even just a little. “Like you have any room to talk, you are gonna come out of Seoul with a ring on your finger.” She yells as she stuffs her face, giggling at the thought. You laugh along as you pour yourself a glass of wine. While it is a nice idea, the likelihood is slim to none.

You and Hazel continue to laugh and joke as dinner went on, the apartment filling with warmth and comfort. Even after dinner while you both clean the dishes the conversation never slows, even though you've known each other for years there always seems to be something to talk about. Before going to relax on the couch and watch a movie, you refill your glasses and cheer for the excitement that will come when both of you will travel. You and Hazel have video calls next week with the company's representatives to discuss further details. Both of you are ecstatic about what will come next, although a small pit in your stomach forms as you look down at Orion, unsure what will happen with him when you leave. Pushing the thought away, you pick him up to curl on your lap while Hazel picks the worst looking horror movie possible.

“What is this?” You give her a dead pan stare as you point to the tv, showing a horror movie about bad quality CGI gnomes.

“Don't you dare judge me!” She yelled as she slapped your arm. “It could be an Oscar worthy movie, you might never know with that attitude.”

“I highly doubt it's that good but if it will make you happy then it will hopefully make me happy.” You sigh, giving in to her antics. While the movie wasn't worthy of an Oscar, it did serve its purpose of being entertaining. Feeling buzzed off the wine, plus your best friend's hilarity, you are laughing up a storm. Soon it gets late enough in the night where you have to call it. Both of you have Dr. Westley’s class in the morning to discuss our current projects as well as more details about the abroad final. Saying goodbye, you lock the door and head to bed, curling up with Orion by your side as you drift off to sleep.

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Class is the same as normal, the usual jokes and jabs that get thrown across the room, Westley’s tangents that go for a little too long, paint in places where paint shouldn't be. Everything is normal except the pit in your stomach as the end of class approaches. You've wanted to talk to Dr. Westley about KQ and how everything happened. The last minutes are a blur as people start to funnel out of the room. Stepping up to his desk, sweat coating your hands, you ask to talk.

“So I was hoping we could chat about the final assignment.” You nervously bring up. You have always been comfortable with him, but with the severity of this project the nerves bundle up. “I wanted to know why you picked KQ for me and how you even got them to say yes in the first place if that's alright?”

“Of course it's alright,” He chuckles, looking at you with amusement. “I sent out hundreds of emails to different companies seeing if they wanted to participate. Well a couple weeks ago you seemed really excited for that one concert you were going to. All you could talk about was that band so I figured it wouldn't hurt to send them an email as well. Luckily enough they said yes so I figured it would be a nice surprise for you.”

He finishes his explanation as you nod your head along to the information. Warmth floods your chest as you think of his thoughtfulness towards your interests. He tends to look out for you often since he’s mentioned you remind him of his daughter but this is more than you could ever ask of him. A boost of energy flows through your body as the anticipation starts to build up, excitement for the journey of a lifetime. Quickly saying thank you and goodbye to Dr. Westley, you slip out the door to head to your next class.

With everything that has happened to you this past week, it's hard for you to pay attention to your other classes. Everything seems insignificant in comparison to your trip to Seoul. Having to wait until you video call the KQ representative is tortuous. Every minute you spend looking at the clock feels like hours, even so, the day goes by in a blink. You feel as though you are floating through space, nothing could bring you as much eagerness as entering through those company doors. The only thing holding you back from fully enjoying this is Orion. What if you can't bring him with you? Who is going to take care of him? You might be able to leave him with your mom but even then he won't get as much attention as you could give him. The only thing that will calm the unsureness is the answer that KQ gives you.

The week flies by, hours of mindless painting, no concern for the accuracy of your notes, and half listened to small talk. Every moment spent waiting for your meeting. You triple check the link you were sent along with the time and date. Waiting restlessly in the videocall lobby, until you finally see the loading screen of the representative connecting to the call. Nerves crawling up your back, now face to face with the man that is going to be in charge of you for the two months you are there. You start to sweat, worried that it might show through on the camera. There is a beat of silence, both of you giving each other a once over before he finally speaks.

“You are Y/N correct? From Dr. In Westley's class, my name is Lee Do-Yun, I'm one of the HR representatives from KQ. You'll primarily be working with me on this project.” He finishes talking, waiting patiently for your response as you gather your words. He was around your age, fairly attractive, with a look that says he doesn't get enough sleep for what is needed, but he seemed kind.

“Yes I am Y/N, thank you so much for meeting me and giving me this opportunity.” apprehensive at first, once you start talking though you slowly build confidence taking control of the conversation. “I was hoping we could go over the requirements for the work I would be doing as well as how housing and travel would be playing out as well. I do have some questions but those can wait until the end.”

“Of course.” He smiles, looking like he appreciates your straightforwardness. “As you are aware you will be painting two murals for us. One of them is going to a line of the Ateez members, you are welcome to take your own reference photos or look through the catalog we have. The second is more open to artistic freedom, we just want something music related, some fun pop to add to the company.”

You start feeling giddy at the fact that you’ll get to paint Ateez, not to mention the fact that they’ll actually be seeing the work on their walls. Thinking about the reference you start to think of more questions to bring up. “For the catalog, how would I be able to look at it? Physical or digital?”

He nods his head at your question, “I would email a digital one for you before you fly in. I can also prepare a physical copy for you when you land if you would like.”

“Yes please, that would be very helpful thank you. And for housing?”

“Ah right, so we have prepared an apartment for you to stay in while you are here. It comes with all the basic amenities and is a short walk from KQ. Your flights and car fair will be covered as well by the company. If you decide to go out and explore the city, that is your choice.” He finishes explaining the rest of the apartment and the kind of places around the area. Most of your questions were answered already from this meeting which you expected, all except one.

“Mr. Lee, I just have one more question for you. I have a cat, would he be able to come with me or would I have to find temporary housing?” Your nerves are all at the surface now, Orion was the only thing you were worried about and if you couldn't bring him it would break your heart. He asks you to hold a moment while he goes to check something. You sit for a few minutes, sweat coating your hands as time goes on. Eventually he returns, turning to face back towards you.

“The apartment that we have luckily is pet friendly so you can bring your cat. If your cat is well-behaved enough you might be able to bring him into the office while you work every once and a while. I'm sure he will be a nice moral boost in the office.” He smiles at you as your face lights up with the news. You say your final goodbyes and thank yous as you end the call. You get up, stand at your desk for a second, taking a pause to process everything. The next thing you do is run around your house and scream with excitement. You find a very startled Orion looking at you like you're crazy as you scoop him up and twirl around with him in excitement. He puts a paw on your chest telling you to put him down as he meows at you nervously.

You leave for Seoul in a few days so after the excitement calms for a second you decide to pack. Two months is a long trip but you can't bring too much. Trying to pack clothes that can be worn together in a lot of different combos, picking simple and comfortable pieces with a few statement items. You also have to pack Orion's things to his dismay, confused as to why you are taking all his things from him. Once you have a good idea of what to bring you call Hazel to tell her all that's happened, excited for what's to come.

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You, Hazel, and a not so happy Orion are driving, on the way to the airport. Her flight doesn't leave until tomorrow but she is kind enough to give you a ride and say goodbye. You already know you both are going to be overly dramatic when you leave, as if you're not going to facetime everyday. Orion isn't too pleased about being in his carrier, unsure of where he is going. You and Hazel chat the entire time during the drive, pausing to comfort Orion here and there.

“Bitch i swear to god if you don't give me a run down of each and everyday I'm flying there myself and murdering you.” She turns towards you with a blank expression before bursting into a fit of laughter. “And you know if you do get with one of the members, give my number to one of them.”

She winks at you as you giggle at the thought. “Like that would happen, please girl. I’ll probably piss myself if I ever come face to face with them. Besides, what about Tyler?”

“Boooo, Tyler. He’s in the dog house right now. He’s been pissing me off lately, I just don't know what his deal is.” You glance towards her with a sympathetic look, lightly rubbing her shoulder.

“Anyway you are going to have so much fun, I heard the club culture there is amazing so promise me you'll go to at least one.” Hazel pleads with you as she pulls into the airport drop off.

“Fine, I will. I'll send you so many photos. You better send some when you're in California as well, hopefully you'll finally get a tan.” She rolls her eyes as you lean over and give her one last squeeze before you leave, saying I love you as you close the car door. Grabbing all your bags and Orion, you enter the airport to go through the usual process of security and baggage check.

You wait at your gate anxiously, not because you're scared of flying, but because of what will happen when you land. A soft meow can be heard from your lap as you try to comfort your poor kitty. Downloading some last minute music before you get on the plane, you scroll through song after song trying to pass the time. Soon it's time for you to get on your plane and find your seat. KQ was nice enough to give you two seats, that way Orion could have space and you wouldn't be cramped with him in your lap. You place him in the middle seat as you take the window, looking out at the midwest corn fields, taking them one last time for a while.

The flight was okay, some mild turbulence here and there, you tried to sleep through most of it so the jet lag wouldn't be so severe. Unfortunately, you were only able to get 4 hours of sleep, so for a little while you decide to look through the catalog of Ateez photos to get an idea of what you want to paint. While you have seen most of these already, none of them really spoke out to you. They almost looked too perfect. You note to bring it up to Mr. Lee later, you want something a little more organic to bring life into the painting. Staring out the window, all you can see is clouds and a faint look of the sea. After a bit of time the flight attendants bring you lunch which you scarf down, realizing you forgot to eat breakfast that morning. Luckily after a full tummy you are able to go back to sleep for the rest of the flight.

After landing everything gets a lot more over stimulating. People everywhere, speaking a language you don't know all that much of. Trying to find all of your bags while barely keeping Orion calm through the chaos. Once you have your bags, you head to a bench to set everything down and send a text to Mr. Lee, notifying him of your arrival.

After a few minutes of answering messages, you get a tap on your shoulder, starting you. You jump slightly as you come face to face with the man you just contacted moments ago. With a laugh at your lack of awareness, you greet each other as he helps you bring the bags to the car. You chat for a while, talking about each other's days and your flight before you arrive at your apartment.

“So this is your key, I will help you bring your bags up and show you around.” He says and he guides you towards the door. “It’s pretty spacious and should be more than enough for you and your cat. My colleague suggested that we get a cat tree for your stay here so that it will be arriving at some point tomorrow.”

“Aww, thank you so much, that is very thoughtful. I'm sure he is going to enjoy that very much” You say, putting a hand over your heart with a smile. Turning the key, you scan the room, taking in the space. It is honestly nicer than your apartment back home, clean with a cozy aesthetic that you appreciate. If you lived here full time it could easily feel like home. Letting Orion out of his carrier he immediately runs to hide under the couch, still scared to be in a new place with new scents. Turning back to Mr. Lee you thank him one more time.

“You are quite welcome, we are very excited to have you working with us on this project. Your professor says nothing but great things. Speaking of work, you get today and tomorrow to settle in and do some grocery shopping. The day after that I will come and pick you up at 8:00 AM to show you around KQ and which walls you will be painting on.”

“That sounds great, thank you. While I remember, I did have a concern with the Ateez mural.” He gives you a slightly nervous look as he nods for you to continue. “The group photos you sent over were fine and all” you take a quick pause, “but I was hoping for a more organic look. While they do look amazing, they just seem too perfect if that makes sense. I was hoping you had some photos of them looking a little less posed.”

“Ah.” He nods, thinking before he continues to speak. “I’m not sure, that isn't really my department but you are welcome to take some reference photos and pose them yourself if you’d like. I believe we had a time set up for that this week in case.” You nod, thanking and telling him you would think it over for the night.

After he leaves, it’s just you, Orion, and your thoughts. Never in your wildest dreams would you think you would actually be in Seoul doing a mural for KQ. On top of the fact that you might be the one taking photos of them in the same room, actually talking and directing them. It had been almost a few weeks at this point since you saw them in concert, their tour ending a few days ago. You could only imagine how exhausted they must be after all that travel, and the fact that they have to come back into work so soon. You really respect what they do that much more, if you had to be on their schedule you're unsure if you could survive.

After taking some time to unpack all of Orion’s and some of your things, you decide it would be best to get some air. Stepping out of your new apartment, you look around at where you will be for the next two months. It's a nice neighbor, only a few streets worth of houses since it's located pretty central in the city. The further you walk down the more amazed you become. You knew the city was beautiful already, but seeing it in person is a whole nother thing. Each building has its own personality, every street riddled with different signs and posters. You continue to explore eventually coming across a grocery store, your stomach rumbling at the thought of food. Not realizing how exhausting traveling has been, you enter the doors in order to feed you and Orion for the next week.

You only pick up a few things, cat food, some drinks, and last but not least a variety of snacks. While you do enjoy cooking for the most part, snacking has always been your main source of nourishment. One of your many bad habits, seldom taking time to eat actual meals unless you have someone else you are eating with. Plus, you figured you would be working long hours anyway, wanting to do your best on these murals. Eating just seems like it would be on the back burner for the time being. It's not like you were trying to avoid it, there just seems to be so many other things on your mind.

Making it back into your apartment, you call Hazel to fill her so far as you feed Orion. You both talk and laugh for a few hours, you talk about how everything in Seoul is, she talks about how amazing California is. You are both on very different time zones so when you have to go to bed she is busy getting lunch. You say your goodbyes as you get ready to go to sleep. Tomorrow will be spent with more unpacking and exploring the new city you temporarily get to call home.

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The knock on your door couldn't come sooner. Before, you were anxiously pacing around your apartment, nervous for your first day at KQ. You spent hours last night looking through all your clothes trying to decide what to wear. You knew you weren't going to be painting today so finally you settled on a floral maxi skirt, tank top, and a jacket in case you get cold. Styling your hair and makeup, hoping to make good first impressions. You look at yourself once more in the mirror, fixing your hair to perfection before stepping out the door. Mr. Lee greets you holding two coffees as he motions for you to take one of them.

“Mr. Lee good morning, you didn't have to do this. Thank you.” Taking a sip of the coffee you were just handed.

“Please call me Do-Yun, we are going to be working a lot together so no need for formalities. It was no trouble at all really. Besides, I figured you would like one since it is so early.” He says looking down a bit and scratching the side of his neck in sheepishness. Noting his shyness but choosing to look past it for now, figuring he is like that with everyone. You two talk about what your first day will look like as you walk to KQ.

“Today should be fairly easy for you. We will introduce you to the team, show you where the murals will go. Have you decided on whether or not you want to take your own reference photos?” Do-Yun finishes going through the schedule as you start to feel a pit in your stomach. The very idea of being in front of Ateez is nerve-wracking, but you want to make a good impression and do the best work you can for KQ. The plan is to get through the day, take the photos in a professional manner, and most importantly don't do anything potentially embarrassing.

“If it is still okay for me to take the photos in person I would love to.” Hesitantly saying as you take another sip. Looking over at him you ask. “When do you think we will take them?”

“Since we had already anticipated taking new photos we had scheduled it later today. I believe in the afternoon sometime after lunch, I'll have to double check.” As we approach the KQ, Do-Yun holds the door for you to open. Hearing the news that it was today shocks you. You definitely hadn't mentally prepared yourself enough for this but as the wise words of Hazel once said, ‘fuck it we ball’. You try not to think about it too much, just trying to get through the day is the first task. He shows you around the company, explaining which floors have which rooms. Where his office is if you need him, where the recording studios are, etc. He brings you to an empty white wall next to some of the dance studios, explaining that this is where the Ateez mural is going to be. The other mural doesn't have a set area yet, KQ wants you to take more leadership in that since this is your final assessment for your class. Before lunch, you get introduced to some of Do-Yun’s coworkers as well as the crew that is going to help you photograph the idols. Park Byeol, one of the makeup artists you had met early on, was extremely welcoming. She is older than you, maybe around mid 30s, with this old soul demeanor to her. Out of everyone you had met so far at the office you felt you could get along with her the most. You both chatted quite a bit before she asked if you wanted to get lunch with her and some others.

“I would like that very much, thank you.” Giving her your best smile, before an influx of ‘awws’ comes your way.

“Goodness, you are just so cute. You act just like my son, he gives the same big smile when he’s happy.” She pats your head as she ushers you to walk with her. “He is going into his first year of school. We just went shopping the other day for supplies, he’s so excited.” She beams as she continues to gush about her son. “Oh but look at me rambling on. I want to know more about you, how are you settling in?”

“Just fine, thank you. It’s a dream being here, I’ve always wanted to visit the country but never had the chance to until now.” You and the small group you're with eventually get more comfortable talking casually as you continue to walk. You all chat about a variety of topics before going into a café to grab lunch. Pausing in your conversation with Byeol and her coworkers to order a Ginger tea and sandwich. Once everyone gets their food, you all find a spot to sit and converse some more. Hana, a girl close to your age who works with the tech for photography, asks you all kinds of questions. You fill her in on some aspects of your life while trying to learn more about her and Byeol as well. You eventually find out that she is originally from Toronto and moved to Korea with her mother when she was 16, which explains why her English is so good. She’s also an aspiring photographer hoping to eventually open her own studio one day. You and her really hit it off since both of you connect to wanting to be better at your craft and trying your hardest to get there. At the end of lunch you have both Hana’s and Byeol’s numbers. The conversation slows as you approach KQ once more, the weight of work spreading over everyone. But it's time to get back on schedule, you take a breath just before Byeol pokes you on the shoulder.

“We are going to start shooting those photos soon. I have to leave to get the boys ready but why don't you follow Hana to where you’ll be shooting.” She gives you a smile and a small squeeze on the arm before departing from the group. Turning to Hana who's already looking at you with a polite smile. She reminds you of Hazel in a way, bubbly and passionate but much more tame. Hana is a bit quiet in comparison but that doesn't mean a lot since your best friend is like a rhino in a China shop. It hasn't even been a week since arriving but you already miss her, the strings tug at your heart. Even though you’ll just end up calling her anyway after work, filling each other in on the events of the day.

You follow Hana to the shoot, the blaring white backdrop covering almost the whole wall. You had discussed earlier with Do-Yun how you wanted the shoot to go. Having them dress in casual attire that they would wear to an outing. Something that shows their own personal styles, but still being cohesive to the overall look. You don't need anything too fancy, wanting them to look casual and carefree. You look out at all the equipment, gulping at how expensive everything looks. Praying to god you don’t break anything, everything in this room probably costs more than what's in your bank account. The clock’s ticking slowly builds up your nerves, not yet coming to terms with the fact that you are going to be taking photos of them in person.

Finally the makeup crew files in to set up their stuff in case the members need touch ups. You begin to fiddle with your camera settings to fully prepare for the shoot. Everything happens so quickly, people are flying past you in order to do their assigned tasks, voices shouting from all different directions. Byeol briefly checks up on you after finishing setting up her station, mothering you slightly as she tucks a stray hair back in its place. After talking with her for a moment, it seems like time slows. Just then, as people finish setting up their last minute things, 8 very gorgeous and very chaotic men roll into the room. Shouting at each other for who knows what, while Hongjoong and Seonghwa look over at their sea of children with tired eyes. In that moment, realization finally hits as they walk closer. People you have only dreamed about meeting, coming face to face with you. Sweat has made its way to the surface of your skin, something that happens more often than not now while thinking of these guys. Taking a deep breath you wipe your hands on your skirt, stepping forward to properly introduce yourself to Ateez.

Chapter Text

“Hello! Thank you so much for taking time out of your busy schedules to meet with me today. My name is Y/N, the artist who is going to be doing murals around the building so you might see me working from time to time.” You say with a smile in the most clear and professional tone you can muster. As you continue to explain the look you want to achieve in the shoot, they all look with serious expressions, trying to take in everything you say. Once you finish explaining your gesture with your hands and ask if they have any questions. Wooyoung is the first to speak, he stares at you as though he’s trying to peer into your soul.

“Have I seen you before? Like have we met?” You chuckle at his completely unrelated question as some of the other members look at him with a ‘what the hell are you talking about’ look. “Ummm no we haven't, I was at one of your concerts a few weeks ago so maybe you recognize me from that.” Heat rises to your cheeks as you finish talking. In what delusional world would you think that he would remember you from that. He saw thousands of fans on that tour so why would you be -

“Ah that’s it!” He points at you as an immediate recognition goes to his face. He hits San on the shoulder and whispers to him giggling in the process. You probably look red as a tomato at this point since he did in fact remember you from the concert, what you were wearing, or lack there of, flashes in your mind as you feel the tips of your ears becoming warm . Him and San continue to whisper to themselves as Hongjoong clears his throat and starts to speak up.

“So should we begin?” He looks over the group with what can only be described as an expecting dad expression. You cough a little, giving him a thankful smile as you start taking control of the room again.

“Yes please, if I could have you guys get into some more casual posing that would be wonderful.” Lightly guiding them on where you want them to stand, not that they need much guidance though since they do this for a living. They look perfect, too perfect so you tell them to start chatting amongst themselves. It takes a few minutes for them to relax enough to give the effect you were hoping for. Casually talking with each other, postures not as practiced, expressions more genuine. You were even able to get one of Mingi's signature smiles before you ask to take one on ones. Deciding to start from oldest to youngest, you pull Seonghwa while the others go to get their makeup touched up and hang on the couch. You start to ask him about his day, hoping he will drop the tightness in his poses.

“How is everything now that the tour is over? Do anything fun with your time off?” Looking up from the camera a moment to signal that you were indeed talking to him. He buffers for a second, thinking of what to say.

“It is good to be back, I loved the tour but I missed home. I got a new Lego set that I have been putting together before bed, it has been very enjoyable.” Pausing for a second to smile before talking again. “How are you liking Korea, I assume you are not from here?” He gives a cautious look, hoping he’s not wrong about the fact that you are a foreigner.

You smile down a little as you continue taking photos of him from different angles. “You are correct, I'm from America, I've only been here for a few days now but it has been wonderful so far. Which lego set did you get?”

He gets increasingly giddier as he continues to talk about his Legos. “I just got a toothless one and one of the flower packs.” He continues to describe which flowers came in the bundle he bought, a glint in his eyes as you take the last photo.

“Okay I think that's all I need, could you go get Hongjoong for me?” Nodding, he starts to head towards where the others are. Tapping on their captain's shoulder, signaling to head over to where you are. Hongjoong stands up, brushes himself off, and walks towards you smiling. Once you come face to face he claps his hands together as starts the conversation. It’s clear that he is usually the one who has to take control of situations when it comes to Ateez, even more so in person.

“So is there anything you want in particular?” Making eye contact with you as he gives an awaiting expression.

“Not necessarily, something simple would be good. I have told people to pose like they are waiting in line but don't have their phone.” You answer, laughing at yourself a little. He gives you a polite chuckle as he fixes his clothes to get into position. “Sounds simple enough, how have you liked KQ so far?”

You pause from looking into your camera, shocked a little since you weren't expecting him to ask you questions first. After your brief pause, you get back to work, grinning slightly as you answer him. “It has been great so far! Everyone I have met has been lovely and the company even let me bring my cat with me.”

“Oh you have a cat?”

“I do, his name is Orion, he’s all black with lots of sass. The love of my life.” You gush, ranting about your baby bringing more and more excitement out of you. Poor Hongjoong has to listen to you continuing to talk about your cat, not that he seems to mind. He just smiles at your enthusiasm towards your son. As the clicking of your camera slows, you take a final look through your photos and nod with approval. Just before you tell Hongjoong that he’s done you realize you were really the only one talking.

“Oh my goodness, I’m sorry, I was the only one talking.” Giving him a very apologetic look as you say a string of sorrys. He just laughs slightly at you as he waves his hands in reassurance.

“It’s really okay, I enjoyed it. You know your cat sounds a lot like our Wooyoungie, maybe we should set up a play date?” He gives himself a chuckle at his joke.

“I could probably bring Orion into work one day.” Both of you laugh at the thought of treating your cat and Wooyoung as though they were children needing to be watched over. You both make a few more strings of jokes before you send him on his way to get Yunho.