Work Text:
The T1 players never used to like makeup. It was optional, of course—a light touch of foundation, concealer, and powder to keep their faces camera-ready during matches. But even the bare minimum was enough to make them groan whenever a staff member poked their head into the waiting area to announce an available slot for makeup. Like clockwork, they’d start pointing fingers at one another.
“Hyung, you go!”
“No, my knees hurt.”
“Rock, paper, scissors for it?”
“No, my hands also hurt.”
It was a ritual of reluctance, a shared distaste for the pre-match routine. Until you showed up.
You were the new makeup artist for the LCK. With a warm smile and a calming presence, you made the dreaded sessions feel less like a chore and more like a brief reprieve. You took your time, chatting with each player as you worked, adjusting to their preferences, and somehow, without meaning to, you became the highlight of their pre-match ritual.
Now, the same T1 players who used to avoid makeup like the plague eagerly lined up, subtly jostling to secure the next spot. It wasn’t long before it became clear: they weren’t just here for the foundation.
Hyeonjoon was the new addition to the team, a shy and reserved top laner who was still finding his place among the T1 veterans. At first, he barely spoke during his makeup sessions, sitting stiffly in the chair as though afraid to move. But over time, he began to relax, thanks in no small part to your gentle encouragement.
“You’re getting more comfortable with this,” You teased one day as you dusted powder across his forehead. “You didn’t flinch even once this time.”
He chuckled softly, the corners of his lips lifting in a shy smile, “Maybe it’s because you’re good at this, noona.”
The word “noona” rolled off his tongue with a mix of formality and endearment that caught you off guard. It wasn’t uncommon for the players to call you that, but something about the way Hyeonjoon said it felt different—like he meant it more.
“Flattery will get you everywhere,” You replied, hoping the warmth in your cheeks wasn’t too obvious.
His confidence grew in small increments, each session revealing a little more of his quiet charm. At first, it was just fleeting smiles and softly spoken words, but soon, he began sharing small jokes and playful remarks that caught you off guard. You’d be halfway through applying makeup, and suddenly, he’d slip a lighthearted comment about his favorite champion or how he was secretly a pro at video games.
“You know, I think I’d make a better jungler than Hyunjoon,” He said one day, his voice barely louder than a whisper as you dabbed concealer under his eyes.
You raised an eyebrow, amused by the shift in his usual quiet demeanor, “Oh really? What makes you think that?”
“Well, I’ve got the reflexes and the strategy. Hyunjoon’s… well, Hyunjoon’s just good at yelling at people,” He teased, a playful smirk curling his lips.
You couldn’t help but laugh, catching the lightness in his tone, “You know, you might be onto something there.”
His cheeks flushed just a bit, but he didn’t shy away from the playful banter, “I mean, it’s all about the mind games, right?”
There was a gentleness in his demeanor, a sincerity that made every interaction feel genuine. He wasn’t trying to impress you—he was simply being himself. And that was what made the connection feel real. Whether it was his nervous laughter after making a joke or the way his eyes lit up when he shared something he was passionate about, it was clear that each moment with him was more than just surface-level interaction.
Over time, the awkward pauses between you faded, replaced by a comfortable rhythm. No longer did you need to fill every silence with idle chatter. You could be in the same room, exchanging only small glances or quiet smiles, and it felt like enough. His quiet charm wasn’t just endearing—it was magnetic, drawing you in with every passing moment.
One day, as you leaned in to adjust his hair, he cleared his throat. “Do you, uh, have plans after the match?” He asked, his voice steady despite the faint pink tinge creeping up his neck.
The question hung in the air for a moment, and then he laughed nervously, “I mean, not that I’m… yeah, just curious, that’s all.”
You smiled, pretending not to notice his flustered recovery, “I’ll be here, cleaning up, once your match is over. Why, do you need something?”
His gaze flickered to yours for a moment before he looked away, a small, almost imperceptible smile playing on his lips, “No, just… wondering.”
A week later, you spotted Hyeonjoon lingering outside the makeup room, even though it wasn’t his turn yet. He looked uneasy, as if he wasn’t entirely sure why he was there in the first place.
“What’s up?” You asked, surprised.
“Uh… I was just passing by,” He said, his hands stuffed into his jacket pockets.
“You’re a terrible liar,” You teased, leaning against the doorway. “Come on, what is it?”
He hesitated for a moment before blurting out, "Your coffee looks cold," pointing awkwardly at the cup in your hands. "Do you... want me to get you a fresh one?"
You raised an eyebrow, “Are you offering to get me coffee?”
“Only if it’ll make you smile,” He said quickly, his ears turning red.
You couldn’t help but laugh, “Alright, Hyeonjoon. I take my coffee black. Thanks.”
He nodded, clearly flustered but grinning, before spinning on his heel and hurrying off.
Hyunjoon, the team’s jungler, was the polar opposite of his top lane counterpart. Where Hyeonjoon was shy, Hyunjoon was effortlessly confident. He carried himself with the kind of self-assurance that wasn’t cocky but undeniably magnetic. And he knew it.
He had a way of commanding attention without even trying, his easy smiles and smooth words leaving a trail of flustered admirers in his wake. Yet, there was a subtle warmth beneath his charm—a genuine care for those around him that softened the edges of his confidence. He wasn’t just skilled on the Rift—he was a natural leader, someone people gravitated toward both on and off the stage.
When he spoke, it felt as if every word was chosen just for you, making it almost impossible to tell whether he was simply teasing or flirting with real intention. Either way, Hyunjoon always left you second-guessing, your heart racing in the moments he’d lean in just a little closer or hold your gaze just a little longer than necessary.
During one session, as you dusted powder across his face, your fingers lightly brushed against his jawline. He didn’t pull away. Instead, a small smirk tugged at his lips.
“Careful,” He murmured, his tone low and teasing. “You’re going to make me think you’re doing that on purpose.”
You shot him a pointed look, trying to ignore the flutter in your chest. “If you keep talking, I might accidentally poke your eye out.”
His smirk deepened as he leaned in just enough to blur the line between casual and intentional. “Worth the risk,” he replied, his gaze locking onto yours with a mix of challenge and amusement that left you momentarily breathless.
The faint brush of his hand against yours was subtle, almost accidental. But the way his eyes lingered on yours for just a heartbeat too long hinted at something far more intentional. You kept your focus on your work, pretending not to notice the small, knowing smile tugging at his lips.
“Is that your way of buttering me up?” You asked, trying to sound unimpressed.
“Maybe,” He said with a casual shrug. “Is it working?”
It was always like this with Hyunjoon—subtle, smooth, and perfectly calibrated to keep you guessing. Was he genuinely flirting, or just being effortlessly charming as usual? His words would be laced with that perfect balance of confidence and casualness, leaving you to wonder if there was more to it or if he was simply being his usual self.
One moment, he’d casually drop a compliment, his eyes meeting yours with a look that could almost be described as playful. “You know,” He’d say, tilting his head slightly as you adjusted the makeup on his face, “You’re really good at this. Almost like you’re a magician or something.”
You’d laugh, brushing it off, “I just know what I’m doing, that’s all.”
He’d smile, but there was always a hint of something behind it, something that made you second-guess whether he was just complimenting your work or subtly acknowledging something more. “Nah,” He’d insist. “You make it look way too easy. It’s impressive.”
Then, just when you thought you had him figured out, he’d shift gears with a smile that could only be described as mischievous. His lips would curve up just enough to make your heart skip a beat, and you’d find yourself questioning everything. “You’re not just good at makeup, are you?” He’d ask with a teasing glint in his eyes, his voice dropping just slightly as if to suggest something more.
In those moments, it felt like he knew exactly what effect he had on you—and it was almost as if he was enjoying the little game he played, keeping you on your toes.
But then, he’d flash that signature smile, the one that held just enough mischief to make your heart skip a beat, and you’d know exactly where you stood. Or at least, where he wanted you to think you stood. The line between playful teasing and genuine interest blurred, leaving you unsure whether you should lean in closer or pull back. It was this uncertainty, this thrill of never being quite sure, that made every interaction with him feel electric.
During another session, Hyunjoon glanced at the table of products and pointed to a bright red lipstick, left behind by one of the other makeup artists.
“That one,” He said, a mischievous grin playing at the corners of his mouth.
“What about it?” You asked, raising an eyebrow, clearly amused.
“Why don’t you wear it sometimes? I think it’d suit you.”
You rolled your eyes, “First, that’s not mine. Second, this is a professional setting, Hyunjoon.”
“Doesn’t mean you can’t look stunning,” He replied smoothly, his gaze lingering on you with just the right amount of intensity.
Later that day, as you were packing up, you reached into your bag and froze. A new tube of red lipstick had been slipped inside, a sticky note attached to it.
For when you’re not working. — Hyunjoon.
Sanghyeok, the team’s legendary mid laner, was an enigma. His reputation preceded him, more than a decade of dominance in the League scene earning him respect and admiration worldwide. But when it came to flirting? Let’s just say it wasn’t his strongest suit.
He was used to commanding the Rift with precision and strategy, but when it came to navigating the subtle art of charm, he often seemed a little out of his element. His attempts were awkward at best, often slipping into over-the-top gestures or overly kind compliments that made everyone around him chuckle. But what he lacked in finesse, he more than made up for with sincerity. There was something endearing about his complete lack of guile—he wasn’t trying to win anyone over with calculated moves. Instead, his gestures felt like they came straight from the heart, making it hard not to smile at his genuine, albeit clumsy, attempts.
“Am I sitting okay?” He asked, shifting uncomfortably as you adjusted the chair height.
“You’re fine, oppa,” You assured him with a smile. “Just relax.”
“Relax. Right,” He muttered, his body visibly stiffening as if the very thought of relaxing was a challenge.
You bit back a smile, focusing on blending concealer under his eyes. Sanghyeok’s attempts at charm were so earnest they were almost endearing. He’d compliment your work, but his delivery was so awkward it often came across as a simple statement of fact.
“Your hands are very steady,” He said one day, his tone so serious it sounded like he was analyzing gameplay.
“Thank you,” You replied, biting your lip to keep from laughing.
He nodded solemnly, as if this was a matter of great importance, “It’s… impressive.”
Despite his awkwardness, there was something undeniably sweet about the way he tried. He didn’t push boundaries or make you uncomfortable. Instead, his kindness and genuine respect shone through every interaction, making his efforts all the more endearing. His attempts to charm you weren’t grandiose or smooth, but they were real—and that authenticity made them all the more charming.
One day, as you finished applying foundation, he looked up at you with a small, hesitant smile.
“You… you always do such a good job,” He said, his voice quiet but sincere.
You glanced at him through the mirror, “Thanks, oppa. You always say that.”
“I mean it,” He mumbled, his cheeks turning slightly pink. “You’re really good at what you do. I… I notice, you know?”
You smiled softly, “I appreciate that, but it’s just my job.”
“Yeah,” He replied, shifting in his seat nervously. “But you make it look easy, like you enjoy it.”
“Well, I do enjoy it,” You said, finishing the last touch. “Especially when I get to work with someone like you.”
Sanghyeok blinked, clearly surprised by the compliment, “Really?”
“Of course,” You replied, giving him a reassuring smile. “You’re easy to work with. You listen, you don’t make me rush. It makes my job so much easier.”
He looked down, a shy smile creeping onto his face as he scratched the back of his neck, “I just… want to make things easier for you.”
You chuckled, “Well, you’re definitely doing that.”
For a moment, he seemed at loss for words, his eyes darting to the side before returning to you, “I… I don’t know what to say. But… thanks for saying that. Makes me feel like I’m doing something right.”
“You are,” You said, giving him a soft, encouraging smile. “You’re doing great.”
He grinned, a little sheepishly, but there was a spark in his eyes, “Okay, I’ll just… keep doing my best, then.”
“Just keep being you. That’s enough.”
The simple exchange, filled with sincerity and the most unassuming kind of charm, left you feeling warmer than you expected. Despite his awkwardness, there was something incredibly genuine about the way he interacted with you, making him more endearing with each passing day.
One afternoon, Sanghyeok lingered after his session, looking hesitant.
“Do you need something?” You asked gently, noticing his discomfort.
He shifted awkwardly, “I was just wondering… do you play games? Like, League?”
You grinned, unable to hide your amusement, “Just a little. Why? Are you challenging me?”
“No! No, I just thought…” He trailed off, rubbing the back of his neck nervously. “It might be fun to play together. Sometimes. If you want.”
His sincerity was so charming that you couldn’t bring yourself to refuse. After all, how many people could say they’d had the chance to duo with the legendary Faker?
Minhyung was the team’s ADC and the embodiment of confidence. He didn’t flirt—he declared. From the moment he sat in your chair, he was all charm and no hesitation.
He was the kind of person who made every interaction feel like a performance, each word smooth and purposeful, his gaze unwavering. There was no second-guessing with him—he knew exactly what he wanted and wasn’t shy about making it known. Whether it was a compliment about your skills or a sly remark that made you laugh, Minhyung’s presence was always magnetic. He had that kind of confidence that was impossible to ignore, effortlessly filling the room with his energy. And when he spoke to you, it was as if you were the only person in the world worth his attention.
“Noona, be honest,” He said, his voice playful as you prepped his skin. “I’m the best-looking one on the team, right?”
You laughed, shaking your head, “I don’t play favorites.”
“That wasn’t a no,” He pointed out, grinning as he leaned back slightly to give you a better angle for your work.
“It wasn’t a yes, either,” You countered, tapping his cheek lightly with a powder brush, enjoying the back-and-forth.
He feigned a wounded expression, placing a hand over his heart, “Noona, you’re breaking my heart.”
You rolled your eyes, trying to keep a straight face, “You’ll survive.”
Minhyung’s boldness was a constant source of amusement. He wasn’t afraid to lay it on thick, even if his over-the-top compliments often earned him nothing more than a laugh. But if the way his eyes lingered on yours was any indication, he wasn’t entirely joking.
“You know, if I were any luckier, I’d say you were flirting with me,” He said with a grin as you finished up his makeup, his gaze never leaving yours.
You chuckled, cleaning off the last bit of product from your hands, “Oh? And here I thought I was just doing my job.”
“Well, maybe you are,” He teased, his voice low and playful. “But I like to think there’s a little extra charm coming from you today,” He leaned forward slightly, as if sharing a secret. “I wouldn’t mind seeing it more often.”
You raised an eyebrow, giving him a pointed look, “Don’t get ahead of yourself. This is a professional setting, Minhyung—just like what I’ve told Hyunjoon recently.”
His grin widened, and he straightened up, eyes sparkling with mischief. “Of course. But professionalism can have its perks, right?” His tone was light, but there was an unmistakable warmth in his smile, as if he enjoyed every moment of pushing the boundaries just enough to keep you guessing.
You couldn’t help but laugh, shaking your head as you wrapped up, “You’re impossible.”
And then one afternoon, Minhyung strolled into the makeup room holding a small gift bag. You glanced at him curiously as he set it on the counter beside you.
“What’s this?” You asked, raising an eyebrow.
“A little something to show my appreciation,” He said, his grin almost too charming.
You opened the bag to find a bottle of luxury hand cream, “Hand cream?”
“Well,” He said, leaning casually against the chair. “Your hands are basically magical, noona. Gotta keep them in perfect condition.”
You couldn’t help but laugh, “Flattering me and being thoughtful? What’s the catch, Minhyung?”
“No catch,” He said, his tone playful. “Just hoping you’ll think of me every time you use it.”
You smirked, putting the cream aside, “Nice try, but I think of you enough when you’re talking my ear off during makeup sessions.”
“Good,” He said with a wink. “Means my plan is working.”
You crossed your arms, giving him an exaggerated look of suspicion, “You’re something else, Minhyung.”
He laughed, leaning in slightly, “And you love every second of it.”
You rolled your eyes but couldn't hide the smile playing on your lips, “Keep telling yourself that.”
Minseok, the team’s support, carried himself with an easygoing charm. He didn’t take himself too seriously, and his flirting reflected that. It was lighthearted, carefree, and never forced—just the kind of playful banter that made you laugh even on the busiest days.
From the moment he sat down for his makeup session, you knew he was in the mood for some fun. “You know, no one else does makeup quite like you,” He’d say with a grin, leaning back in the chair. “You’ve got skills. You’re probably the only reason we’re winning matches lately.”
You’d raise an eyebrow, applying foundation as he watched you with exaggerated seriousness, “Oh really? How do you figure?”
“Simple,” He replied, grinning. “You make us look good. And when we look good, we play good.”
“Play
well
,” You’d corrected, laughing.
“See? Even smarter than the rest of us. No wonder you’re my favorite.”
And just when you thought he might’ve pushed the flirtation a little too far, he’d do something completely unexpected to soften the moment. “But seriously, you’re pretty great at this,” He’d add, his tone sincere, offering a grin that said he wasn’t just trying to charm you, but also giving you the compliment you deserved.
His flirting was never intense or overwhelming. Instead, it felt like you were both sharing an inside joke, a mutual understanding that made every session with him feel like a fun, easygoing exchange. He didn’t try to win you over with grand gestures or heavy compliments—he let his natural charisma do all the work, all while making sure you were enjoying yourself too.
“One of these days, we’re going out for coffee. You, me, and no makeup involved,” He’d say as you finished up. “Just a chance for me to impress you without all this magic you work on me every time.”
You chuckled, shaking your head as he stood up, still grinning like he’d just pulled off some great feat, “I’ll believe it when I see it.”
Minseok winked, “You will, noona. You will.”
Minseok’s lighthearted approach was a breath of fresh air. He wasn’t afraid to poke fun at himself or his teammates, often pretending to shield you from their ‘attempts’ to win your favor.
One afternoon, as you worked on his makeup, he leaned back in his chair with a dramatic sigh.
“Ugh, seriously. I don’t know how you put up with these guys,” He said, shooting a pointed glance toward the other players who were hanging around the makeup room. “They all try so hard to get your attention.”
You chuckled, adjusting his concealer, “They do, don’t they?”
He shot you a grin, clearly pleased to be in on the joke, “It’s like they’re all fighting for your affection, and I’m just here, doing my job while they make fools of themselves.”
You raised an eyebrow, “Oh really? And what makes you think you’re so different?”
“I mean, come on,” He said, leaning forward slightly. “I’m clearly the most charming one. I make you laugh, I’m low-maintenance, and I never, ever try too hard.”
“You’re a natural, huh?” You replied, trying to hide your smile.
He nodded, acting serious, “Exactly. It’s all about subtlety, noona. Just a hint of charm, and I’ve got you wrapped around my finger.”
You rolled your eyes, laughing, “You really think so?”
“Absolutely,” He said, winking at you. “Trust me, I’m the one who makes the magic happen. No one else can pull off this level of charm without breaking a sweat.”
“Mm-hmm,” You said, as you finished his makeup. “Well, you’re certainly entertaining.”
“I’ll take that as a compliment,” He said, shooting you a playful smile. “But I’ll let you in on a secret—I’m also the best at making sure these other guys don’t steal your attention.”
“Good luck with that,” You teased.
One evening, after the rest of the team had finished their makeup sessions and left, the room grew quieter, the hum of the lights filling the space. Minseok lingered, not in a hurry to go. He leaned against the counter, his gaze following you as you carefully packed away your tools.
You glanced up, noticing his relaxed posture and the mischievous look in his eyes. “What’s up?” You asked as you zipped up your bag.
Minseok hesitated for just a moment, then pushed off the counter, closing the distance between you. His usual playful demeanor was a bit more pronounced tonight, his grin wider, more knowing.
With a teasing glint in his eye, he lowered his voice as if sharing a secret, “You know they all have a crush on you, right?”
You paused, a small laugh escaping you as you met his gaze, “Including you?”
He didn’t miss a beat, his grin widening further, “ Especially me,” He said with a wink.
As the last match of the season wrapped up and the team celebrated their hard-earned victory, the makeup room buzzed with excitement. It was a rare moment of relaxation after the intense competition, and the atmosphere was light and playful. The T1 players had gathered there, their last day of the season marked by laughter, jokes, and a sense of team spirit as they prepared to say goodbye to the makeup artist who had been with them through it all.
You were putting back your makeup products in the bag when the playful banter began. The energy in the room was different today—there was no pressure of the next match, just the thrill of having made it through another season together. As you cleaned up your kit, you glanced around at the guys, each of them trying to make the most of this last moment of the season with you.
Minseok leaned against the doorframe with a mischievous grin. “So, who’s gonna be the first to ask her out on a date? Or is that just for the bold ones?” He teased, casting a quick look in your direction.
Minhyung rolled his eyes, his grin sharp as he joined in. “You think she’d say yes to you? Please. I’m clearly the better choice. I mean, have you seen my charm?” He said, winking at you as if he had the situation in the bag.
Hyeonjoon, who had been quietly watching the exchange, smirked a little. “I think we all know who she’d pick,” He said, his tone teasing but with a subtle warmth. His eyes met yours for a moment, a soft smile tugging at his lips. “I mean, if she wants someone who’s not constantly showing off…” His words were playful, but there was something in his gaze that made your heart flutter.
Sanghyeok, who was sitting on the couch trying to look cool, suddenly piped in. “I, uh, think she’d like someone who’s… not as loud as you guys,” He said awkwardly but with a shy grin, clearly trying his best to join the fun. His kindness was endearing, and the way he looked at you with a mix of nerves and sincerity made you smile.
Hyunjoon, standing next to you, just shook his head in amusement. “You guys are really something, huh?” He chuckled, his voice light and laced with affection. “It’s like you’re competing for a gold medal in who can be the most obnoxious. Do you ever stop?” His eyes met yours briefly, a warm, knowing look passing between you two. His tone was teasing, but there was an undeniable comfort in it, as though this had become a familiar, safe space.
You couldn’t help but laugh at their antics, the familiar, playful dynamic that had developed between you and the team. It was hard to believe how far you had all come—from the first awkward sessions to moments like this, where the teasing felt almost like a second language. This wasn’t just about flirting anymore. It was about the bond you’d all built together.
The team had become more than just a group of players you worked with. They had made you feel like part of something bigger—like a teammate, not just the one who did their makeup. You had shared so many moments together, laughed at the absurdity of things, and lifted each other up through the tough times. Their teasing, their playful banter—it was all part of the unspoken understanding that you belonged with them, as much as any of them did.
“Seriously, though, you’re all impossible,” You said with a teasing smile, crossing your arms. “Do you think I’m just going to pick one of you after all this?”
Minseok was quick to respond, his grin widening like he’d been waiting for the perfect opportunity. “Impossible? More like irresistible,” He shot back, not fazed in the least, causing a burst of laughter to ripple through the group.
As you looked around at the team, each one in their own way, you couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride. There was Hyeonjoon, no longer the new guy. His growth had been something to witness—his shy demeanor now punctuated by the occasional glint of confidence. Hyunjoon, his steady warmth is always present like a quiet anchor. His smile, soft and understanding, seemed to know exactly what you needed to hear in every moment. Sanghyeok, though awkward and unsure at times, had become someone you genuinely enjoyed spending time with. His nervousness only made him more endearing, and you found yourself rooting for him, in ways you hadn’t expected.
Then there was Minhyung, who never hesitated to bring a dose of confidence into every room he entered, his unwavering belief in himself often enough to make anyone believe they could do anything. And Minseok—always the one to break the tension with a joke, a playful remark, but never failing to make you feel like you were the center of his attention. His lighthearted teasing was just a way for him to show that he cared, even when he made it seem like nothing more than a game.
As you took it all in, you realized just how much each of them had come to mean to you. This was more than just the end of a season, more than a time for casual goodbyes. This team, with their quirks, their personalities, their flaws—they had become a part of your world. And somewhere along the way, you’d become a part of theirs.
You smiled softly, feeling a lump form in your throat at the thought. You may not have known where the future would lead, but in this moment, surrounded by laughter and connection, you felt exactly where you were meant to be.