For reasons outlined below, it would be better if you read this foreword entirely before you read the story, as it will explain some things that may otherwise be confusing.

The idea for this oneshot came about randomly when I was listening to 'Star Sign' by Teenage Fanclub, which is about the futility of superstition. It somehow morphed into a fic about obsessive superstitious behaviour as a symptom of OCD - don't ask me how, I dunno. The title is a nod to this hilariously adorable Metro safety ad that went viral on Youtube a few months ago.

Writing a character with OCD was challenging because it manifests itself in many different ways. Although I know a few people with OCD (one of whom is also incredibly superstitious), I don’t have it myself - so please bear in mind that this is by no means a typical or even accurate portrayal of the disorder. 

Here are a couple of notes on some common Korean superstitions dealt with in the story. I suggest reading them so that certain parts will make more sense:

- 4 is considered an unlucky number because the word for 4 sounds like the word for death. In some cases buildings won’t have a 4^th floor, or 4 will be replaced by an F on the elevator button.

- ‘Fan Death’ refers to the bizarre superstition that operating an electric fan in a closed room while you sleep will result in death. As insane as it sounds, this is apparently quite widespread.

- Red ink is reserved for the names of the dead. If you write a living person’s name in red ink, the implication is that you consider them to be dead or wish for them to die.

Lastly, this fic is for Alice, who wrote Baekyeol fluff for me on my birthday and made me cry. I told you I was gonna get you back someday, you horrible, horrible person.

Just kidding, ily <3

Enjoy xx

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