Archive of Our Own

The boy stood there in the midst of heavy rain. It was the sort of rain that nobody wanted to stay under. Gloomy. Dark. Cold. Angry. On that day, were these the same emotions that coursed through the boy’s bloodstreams as beads of crimson dripped out of his open wounds? Did it hurt? Did it sting?

The opening scene was filtered monochromatic. He whom stood in a back alley, peering down a ruined cardboard box as his dark hair slopped pathetically while Seokjin stood on the concrete pavement of main street. He looked disastrous with his torn clothes over a body covered in bruises, hauling a backpack with one strap broken.

You were the epitome of misery.

However, Jin watched him from afar as he crouched down towards the box and reached a hand in with zero hesitation. The boy was behind a greasy restaurant that threw waste at where he stood but he paid no mind. It was filthy and disgusting.

A tuft of black fur, small, delicate, and youthful- it fitted perfectly in the palm of his battered hands. He brought it closer to his chest, sharing what little warmth he had left in his frozen body. 

Why would you care for something that clearly nobody wanted?

The boy was physically hurt, lip busted and skin bruised for all the wrong reasons. But the sight of the black kitten shaking in his arms managed to show a glint of hope in his black eyes. The sight was strange.

Seokjin watched as the boy subconsciously approached him, wanting to leave the grotesque back alley only to stop a few feet from him- finally noticing him. The boy’s eyes were cautious, fearful yet empty and vacant. He clutched the dirty kitten closer to his chest as the rain poured harder, unforgivingly.

Baffling, they were from two completely different worlds. Jin trailed his eyes over the younger boy who he could only label pitiful. He could, but he wouldn’t. The boy before him had already gone through enough and life seemed to want to test him even more. It was unfair.

With no words needed, Seokjin took the boy’s grimy hand, fingertips chilling him instantly and wrapped the handle of his umbrella to it. He glanced up at the boy’s tired gaze for a moment and then he was gone- leaving the boy with his kitten in the cruel rain who silently stared in a trance at his retreating back.

It should have ended there but now, Seokjin was intrigued.

Click.

Click.

Click.

Seokjin’s lazy gaze turned towards the shuttering sound of Taehyung’s camera. It was an old vintage film camera, pricey and valuable. Seokjin had gifted it to the younger one for his birthday two weeks prior and ever since then, Taehyung has been actively taking pictures of everything and anything.

“Ah hyung, look away- your side profile is better than the front,” the boy said cheekily as Jin tsks before flinging his pen at him. “Hey!” he dodges with a rectangular chuckle, “I’m just trying to emphasise your beauty and using your natural handsomeness to its full potential.”

He rolled his eyes, taking his pen back before leaning into his seat while looking out the tall paned window of their university café. Deciding to tune out the sound of Taehyung’s camera, he began to think back of the boy he’d seen on the first day of class after winter break.

Seokjin often went back by taxi during cold, wet days like that but he had a lot of thoughts to flush out and decided to walk back to his apartment instead. His apartment was pretty far from university but after a drunken, stumbling, bumbling night with Hoseok and Yoongi, he had discovered a shortcut. It wasn’t really a shortcut if he was being honest but it did lessen the journey by five minutes.

The only downside of it was that he would have to go through a dodgy area. He could get mugged. He could get kidnapped. He could also be forced to buy all the dumplings from that persistent old lady. He may even get murdered but cutting his journey from thirty minutes to twenty-five? Got to love a bargain.

But on that day, he had complained about his new shoes becoming ruined and whined to himself because fuck, he was really bad with the cold. He had listed so many reasons to dismay his current situation and motivating to move on with the promise of a hot bath and spicy noodles to warm him up. There were so many reasons to be upset but it surprised him when it took only one person to flip his perspectives around.

Jeon Jungkook.

An infamous name, you either knew too much or knew better than to listen to wind of his reputation. Seokjin fell in the middle-ground on the spectrum. The boy had people whispering about all the bad reasons to stay away.

He was a loner, a loser; an outcast that kept silent with his peers and refused to acknowledge the people around him. He was described as ignorant and stuck-up, thinking he was better than everyone else. Seokjin had seen him a few times on campus. Always alone, earphones plugged in, probably listening to screamos. Everyone simply had so much to say about someone who Jin figured just wanted to be alone.

However, then came the hushes that spread like a blazing wildfire amongst the student body and the staff. Jeon Jungkook was a zipmouth by day but separated them by night to whoever wanted him. A 10,000won whore, a hypocritical slut- that’s what they’d call him.

He had heard so much of the boy yet twiddles were simply empty words. Seokjin was never one to succumb and give in to rumours. Jimin was the biggest gossip in their group. He would talk non-stop about anything and everything and that included Jeon Jungkook.

“Heard he sucked off Seri’s boyfriend during the end of winter break,” Jimin said quietly. “Apparently, the cheating asshole told her he was too busy working to spend time but in fact, he was busying letting you know who screw him deep to the sheets at a cheap corner motel.”

Seokjin looked over at his friends who shared their own theories and opinions but he turned away, unsure if he wanted to believe it or not. After all, they were just blank words.

A notification rang from Hoseok’s phone before he started tapping the table they were at, frantically, “Guys, guys, apparently, Seri’s boyfriend is going to beat Jungkook up. Said the rumours are lies and that he would never let a guy fuck him and that he wasn’t gay.”

Jin wasn’t too convinced that Seri’s boyfriend, Park Dohan, would come through with his promise of a beating and expected nought but talk. However, tattered, battered and eyes full of misery was how Jin found the younger, soaked wet from the heavy rain. A part of Jin scolded him, questioning why he even stopped to stare in the first place. An angry voice, quite like his stern mother’s, ordered him to move on before he gets himself in trouble.

Seokjin was well-known around the university. He was well off, attractive, active in extracurricular and the stereotypical boy next door. People adored him from afar, good words leaving their mouth whenever he was the centre of their topic. Many described him as easy-going, friendly, charismatic and ‘the best kind of person to hang around with’.

The boy who let the rain pour on him was completely different from him. He was unknown; besides the never-ending rumours, no one knew where he lived or where his hometown was. Everyone simply wanted to default him into nothing but talk because he was just…different.

However, another part of him was curious. A prickle of ember anticipating the hunger and need for a dry surface to catch him to burn his way through. Seokjin wanted to write the untold truth of Jeon Jungkook- wanted to believe that there was more to the boy.

Instead of subjecting him to nought, he refused to think that the boy was simply nothing but rumours. The boy was drawn in black in an obscure, indecent way but Seokjin wanted to colour the boy in to show everyone that it really isn’t what it looked like.

Jungkook was gorgeous- his facial features were soft in complexion but strong with a sharp jawline. His hair was in beach waves, dark in colour and a bit longer than most styles. His body was lean, fit, which made Jin wonder if his hobby was going to the gym or doing Crossfit.

But Seokjin understood that looks weren’t everything and that due to the boy’s reluctant and cold demeanour he was simply just misunderstood. He made himself an easy target to pick on.

That night as Seokjin soaked in his deep bathtub, soft lo-fi music in the background with scented candles accompanied by a tall glass of rosé, he wondered if Jungkook and the kitten returned home safely- wherever home was. He pondered if the boy was out of his sopping clothes and into a dry pair before drying off the shivering kitten. He stirred his steaming noodles in the pot and asked aloud if Jungkook had something hot to warm him up like a nice soothing mug of hot chocolate.

Soon, he realised that the boy had completely trapped him; forced his way into Seokjin’s mind, built a town with a total capacity of Jungkook, Jungkook, Jungkook. He chuckled to himself, somewhat enjoying the experience rather than detesting it.

“That camera has officially been glued to your hands,” Namjoon says as he sits down with an iced coffee and a sandwich in between the two. “Can’t believe I missed lunch hour and all they have left are the lame subs,” he pouts as he glares a hole into his meal.

“Can’t make it out to get something outside of campus?” Taehyung asks before focusing his camera lenses on Namjoon who looked back with an unamused expression.

The dimpled boy sighs heavily, “Wish I could but I’ve got to meet my professor after this to ask about my paper.”

“Joon,” Seokjin calls out, “Calm down, yeah? It’s only the third week after break. Relax a little,” he muses.

Namjoon rolls his eyes before slumping in his seat to dig into his meal. Seokjin resumes writing in his daily planner, scheduling assignments due and important dates to remember. Taehyung eventually stops hogging his camera but has switched to his phone camera with the excuse of trying out some new filters.

Taehyung whirls around before piping up an “Oh?” which alerts him and Namjoon. Seokjin looks up from his planner to question the younger one who stares out of the window in shock. He follows his gaze reluctantly before spotting black hair, a white shirt, black pants and black boots. He then sees the three guys and one girl circling Jungkook while he tries to walk away quickly as they tail him.

“What do you think they’re going to do to him?” Namjoon asks quietly, underlying worry to his tone.

“Pretty sure that one of the guys is the boyfriend to Seri’s best friends. God, they should just give him a break. Sure, he slept with her boyfriend but after what happened weeks ago should’ve been enough. His bruises are just starting to heal,” Taehyung murmurs.

Seokjin snaps to look at Tae, “You don’t know that,” he says before picking up his things in his bag with shaky hands. The noise of his chair being pushed back screeched in the café, catching the attention of many.

He could faintly hear a “What’s gotten to him?” before what he assumes is a rise of shoulders in response.

Seokjin followed the path, hoping he was going the right way. It was leading out to the student’s parking lot. Seokjin paced quicker, eyes scanning the area wildly. The sense of urgency because he knew that where there was Jeon Jungkook, there was bound to be someone out to bother him.

Seokjin circled his spot, thinking he had followed them wrong before a grunt was heard behind a large van. He jogged over before catching sight of the four assholes towering over a fallen Jungkook who curled, clutching his stomach in pain as he lay on the cold, wet pavement.

“Not so tough now, eh faggot?” The girl sneers, giggling while the other joins her. “Rough him, guys.”

Seokjin watches as they haul Jungkook up to his feet as he struggles to get out of their grip while another guy readies himself to strike again. Clearly seeing the boy’s face now, Jungkook sported a small cut to his lower lip and a gash on his exposed knee.

Jin steps forward, “What do you think you’re doing?” he asks aloud.

The girl turns with an annoyed expression before instantly gasping at the sight of him, “Seokjin-oppa, w-what are you doing here?” she says as the others stop their actions as well to face him. Seokjin looms over her, glaring to fry her up, “He- well- you know about the rumours, right? He’s been sleeping with other people’s boyfriends a-and he’s- he’s just asking for it!”

“Asking for it?” Seokjin repeats to her, “What’s that supposed to fucking mean? I dare you to say it.”

Silence was what replied to him. Without waiting any longer, he walks up to Jungkook, inspecting him as he lolls his head in exhaustion. Seokjin turns to the attacker before shoving him to the side of the van with anger. “Not fun when you’re the one getting hurt for no reason, right?” he mocks.

He eyes the other two before crouching down to Jungkook, wrapping an arm around the younger’s waist and pulling him closer, supporting his heavy weight by himself. He pulls the boy close as they slowly walk away from them. “Don’t let me catch you dipshits again,” he warns as they quickly rush to leave the scene.

The two staggers across the pavement before a quiet, “Where are you taking me?”

Seokjin looks down at the messy black locks resting against his shoulder with a smirk, “Lucky for you, I brought my car today.”

He handed the boy a tissue box before getting out and rounding his car’s boot and searching for his gym bag. Once he escaped the cold and got back inside his car, he handed his grey hoodie to the boy.

The boy stopped pressing at the cut against the edge of his lips to look at him with a cautious look; glancing back and forth from Jin and the hoodie. Was he questioning why someone like him would even give a damn about him? Seokjin thought it was funny.

“Your shirt got dirtied. Take it off and wear this instead,” he insists before putting it on the boy’s lap.

He decided to give the boy privacy by focusing on his phone, scrolling through messages and his social media accounts. A moment too long passed and eventually, the boy started to peel off his shirt, throwing it on the floor of the passenger seat before sliding into the grey hoodie that smelled of vanilla and musk.

The windshield started to slowly tap as light rain fell against it. The weather these days was always murky and gloom. He wondered when spring would come around, he’d like to be able to wear light clothing again other than layers upon layers of clothes to keep him toasty.

“You got anything else left to do today? Do you want me to send you home?” he asks cheerily.

Jungkook snaps his gaze up at him, searching in his eyes for hidden intentions. Maybe he couldn’t believe that someone was actually treating him with kindness for a change. “Just because of what you did for me that day doesn’t mean anything,” he says coldly.

Seokjin softly smiles at him, “I know it doesn’t.” He switches gears and pulls out of his parking spot before looking at the wide-eyed boy once more, “But it also doesn’t mean that I can’t give you a lift back home.”

It takes a while of aimless silent driving before Jungkook speaks up, “Not home,” he quietly says and Seokjin hums in question. “I have work. At the fried chicken shop near the train station.”

“I see,” Seokjin nods and navigates his way there, “How’s the kitten?”

Jungkook turns to him for a moment but he pretends to not notice, focusing on the road ahead, “Tiny, black, four paws and a tail- she’s fine.”

“Thank god,” Seokjin says which makes the boy in the passenger seat raise an eyebrow at him, “Thought she’d grow another tail since the last time I saw her or something,” he jokes.

The corner of Jungkook’s mouth instinctively tugged faintly before it was gone. Mayhap, Jin was succeeding in cheering the boy up.

Eminently, their journey had ended as Seokjin pulled up by the road in front of a fried chicken store. Seokjin wondered what Jungkook worked as, a cook? Delivery boy? Maybe it was his shift to be the flyer mascot, Jin wondered as he looked at the dancing chicken at the entrance of the store.

“Thanks for the ride,” Jungkook quietly says as he picks up his belongings.

Seokjin turns to him, resting his hand behind the passenger seat’s headrest, “No problem.”

He watched as the boy reluctantly got out of the car, somewhat having a mental argument with himself. He found himself to be accurate as Jungkook whirls around to look at him, “Whatever this was- I appreciate it, but don’t do it again.”

Hah, didn’t see that coming. Jin smiles softly, “Why?”

“Unless you want to get targeted by the other students, it’s best you keep your distance from me,” Jungkook warns, fiddling with the strap of his still-damaged bag.

He weighed his options for a moment, “Mm, no.”

Jungkook scoffed, “What do you mean no?”

“It means that I don’t care what people have to say or do. It doesn’t matter to me,” he says, stuffing his hands in between his thighs to warm them up, “But do you know what I care about?” he asks.

The younger thinks he knows the answer but doesn’t want to hear it out loud in the open because it’s just all too foreign to him. Jungkook looks at him and he hopes he’s not forcing his sincere reassuring smile too much to the point that it starts looking like otherwise.

Seokjin ruffles for a moment, searching through his pockets. He retrieves his wallet and takes out his name card with his number on it, “Here,” he hands out in which Jungkook takes with reluctance. “Do whatever you want with it but if you ever need to reach me for any reason, my number and address are on it.”

And that is how they part, Jungkook’s boss calling him to hurry in and start working. Seokjin watches as the boy rushes over, clutching the card in his hand and it warms Jin to see that at least he’s going, heading somewhere with Jungkook- unknown, but somewhere.

He doesn’t see Jungkook until a week later. However, between those vacant days, Jungkook has been setting up camp in his mind like a daily reminder. Seokjin wonders about the boy over the most trivial of things really. 

He would drink coffee in the morning on his way to class and wonder if Jungkook likes coffee and what type. His friends would come over to his place for dinner and Jin would find himself pondering if Jungkook would let him come to his house one day if he’s persistent enough. His eyes would softly flutter shut, slumber whisking him away to deep sleep only for a soft giggle to burst out of him after he concludes that Jungkook would be the type to sleep with socks on.

He doesn’t find annoyance and boredom upon the never-ending train track where all the stops are destination: Jungkook. Instead, he enjoys them. Likes the way his heart flutters softly and the thought of the younger makes his day just a little bit tolerable.

For the first time in weeks, the weather isn’t gloomy and isn’t a prickling cold. Hoseok has demanded they have lunch under a tree that they would often sit and eat together during the spring. Jimin decides it would be nice to surprise everyone with a cute picnic setup and Seokjin is pleasantly happy with the outcome.

Jimin and Hoseok put a lot of work into setting up the picnic mat, plates, cutlery and even bought a bouquet of flowers to complete the aesthetic. He and Jimin talk about weekend plans to go bar hopping while Hoseok is taking photos of Taehyung to post on social media. They all cheer as they see Yoongi and Namjoon from a distance carrying bags of food to finally fill their stomachs.

They eat, laugh and chat together as if they don’t see one another almost every single day. Seokjin is laying on his side, hand lazily swishing his drink around as he finishes first. Soon the voices seem to slowly fade away as he focuses on the bouquet of flowers in the centre of them all. He picks it up and looks at each and every petal, leaf and detail; mind picturing how pretty Jungkook would look if he took the daintiest of flowers and stuck them through his black hair.

His eyes then lose focus as his surroundings become clear once more and his eyes peer up from above the bouquet by pure instinct only to spot Jungkook in his way- looking back at him. The boy is just standing there, frozen, and he isn’t hiding how he’s directly looking at Seokjin only.

Seokjin sits up at that, but then Jungkook breaks the gaze, looks down at his shoes before walking away. His actions were strange, almost as if Jungkook longed for him too. Mayhap, the boy missed the foreign kindness and needed a boost of empathy to feel like this world wasn’t that bad as long as Seokjin was in it.

“Was that Jeon Jungkook? Why was he staring at you?” Yoongi asks, he had seen the entire scene.

Seokjin shrugged, a smirk of amusement at the questions not only from Yoongi but also from himself, “Not sure.”

“Do you know him?”

Seokjin glances back once more to the bouquet of flowers, caressing a small purple bud, “We’ve crossed paths.”

It wasn’t that Seokjin was ashamed to know Jungkook- that would be furthest from the truth. However, he was greedy. He didn’t want to share Jungkook with other people. He felt like a child whose mother asked to share toys with his friends but he would refuse and make a fit out of it instead. He wanted to cherish Jungkook.

He chuckles to himself as he sits in his car staring down at the bouquet of white flowers in his hand. They were delicate little things. He couldn’t stop picturing Jungkook with flowers and it drove him mad- literally! As soon as classes were over, he drove to a florist with the intention to only browse though he found himself walking out with a set wrapped in black and grey wrapping paper.

He then found himself parked near the fried chicken shop he dropped Jungkook off at last week. He was wondering if Jungkook would take up his request to join him for dinner. Was pretty sure the boy would reject him and Seokjin would respect that but it wouldn’t hurt to try.

With that, Seokjin steps out of his car and the comforting smell of delicious fried chicken engulfed him like a hug once he enters the shop. He looks around for Jungkook but thinking now, he wasn’t sure if the boy was here at all. It was after class hours so he must be here unless it was his day off or something.

There weren’t many customers, hence the no waiting line but he was confused as to why the counter was absent of any workers. He leans forward and notices figures to the side and a loud, angered voice coming from the back kitchen.

“What are we going to do now? Business will be slow tonight and we can’t possibly sell all of these pieces!” A woman, who looked like the boss around here, shouts to the employees that surrounded her with a bummed-out look. “Dumb kids pranking us! Wait until I make a police report on this. This is outrageous and bad for business!” her voice shrill. “It can’t be helped now. We have to sell as much as we can and just throw out the remainder,” she expresses with defeat.

Seokjin thought for a moment before smiling brightly, “Excuse me,” he calls out loud enough for those at the back to hear him. Suddenly then, all eyes peering at him including a pair that he didn’t expect to find but was happy to see.

“Couldn’t help but to overhear and I’m not really sure about the context but I’ll buy the chicken,” he says cheerfully.

“Really?” the woman asks in surprise.

Just then, Jungkook uncrosses his arms and starts to move from his spot, walking up the counter in his cute uniform, “What are you doing here?” he asks, unimpressed but eyes searching Seokjin’s face like there was a hidden clue written on it.

He shrugs, “I wanted fried chicken,” he simply states.

“Yeah, but you don’t need 500 wings and drumettes,” Jungkook replies, to which he could only raise an eyebrow in question. The younger sighs exhaustedly, “Some kids thought it was fun to order for a party but when our delivery went to the location, they didn’t show. Long story short, we got played and now we’re suffering the loss. So whatever it was that you were actually planning to do here- not today.”

Seokjin huffs at that before leaning closer into Jungkook’s space. The other’s eyes grew large at the sudden proximity but made no move to avoid. Jin got closer until he reaches by the shell of the younger’s ear and whispers in a low tone, “Don’t call me out like that, Jungkook-ssi.”

He moves back and snickers, “Plus, I was serious.” He turns to look at the back kitchen and spoke aloud, “I’ll pay for it all. Please warm it all up for me.”

The woman walks up front and asks Seokjin once more to which he confirms with a sincere smile, noticing Jungkook studying him from the side. “Could you please wrap them separately for every 100 pieces?” he asks her to which she nods enthusiastically.

“Of course, of course!” she says loudly before turning to Jungkook at her side, “You heard this handsome, young man. Go help them out now.”

Jungkook then glances at Jin once more before moving back to the kitchen. The woman rang the order up but he halted her for a moment, “Please do add delivery charges, I would like you to please send the orders to a few different locations.”

He then scribbles the addresses onto a paper he was given and happily hands the woman his card to pay. By the time the delivery was finally sent out, the sky had gone dark and weekday nightlife had already begun. The cold had picked up again and it made Jin shiver in his spot at the entrance of the shop.

Before leaving, he wanted to see Jungkook but the other looked busy so he decides that there were other days, preferably days where the younger wasn’t working would be nice. He starts to walk to his car but mid-way, he hears loud heavy footsteps jogging up to him. He turns around to spot Jungkook, holding a bag.

Seokjin peers down to it excitedly, already getting a whiff of the strong smell of fried chicken glazed in spicy sauce. Jungkook shuffles in his spot and lifts the bag to Jin, eyes averted, “Boss wanted me to give you this. As a small thank you,” he says before pausing, biting his bottom lips from chattering as the cold wind blows against them, “it was nice of you.”

Jin gives him a raised eyebrow, “Hmm?”

“The addresses- I looked it up and they were orphanages. That was nice of you,” Jungkook says while Seokjin just smiles keeping his lips sealed. He was happy that he could simply do a little good.

He takes the bag and can feel the steam of the chicken making his exposed hands feel toasty. There is a silence between the two, it’s on the borderline of awkward but just comfortable enough. Seemed like one was waiting for the other to speak up but neither did so Seokjin simply smiled gratefully at him before turning back to his car. 

He pauses once he slid into the driver’s seat and places the chicken in the back. By then, Jungkook had already jogged back to the store, vanishing to wherever. Seokjin simply accepted the failure to bring Jungkook out and decided that he should plan beforehand next time and not expect Jungkook to compensate him. They weren’t anything but passersbys in each other’s lives.

Seokjin was ready to start his car to go home until the corner of his eye caught white, black and grey resting in the passenger seat. He facepalms himself at how forgetful he was. It was the main reason why he even came to the chicken shop in the first place. “Ah!” he groans in frustration, face scrunching with his own annoyance before pulling out of his parking spot. 

His fingers dance across the spines of the many books aligned across the shelf. Nothing seemed to capture his attention. Hoseok had invited him to hang out after he finished studying for an assignment. Jin’s class had ended early so he decided to accompany his friend to pass the time.

“It’ll only take about half an hour or so. I’m almost done,” Hoseok said while typing away on his laptop.

Seokjin got bored with going through his social media and ignoring the multiple texts he received from a few admirers. It was no surprise that he was considered a heartthrob on campus. Regardless of who you were, you either wanted to date him or be him. Honestly, he was flattered and too nice to turn down someone’s advances. He instead chose to either avoid the topic or express how busy he was to date.

There was never a moment of calm as he was always considered the centre of attention. He tried to pretend and shrug it off but it proved to be difficult to act like he couldn’t hear whispers about how gorgeous he was or how good he would be in bed. It made him somewhat annoyed but he couldn’t control what others chose to gossip about.

“Have you seen those hands?” a girl’s voice said from behind him. His eyes glanced down to his fingers holding his phone that rested atop the wooden table. “Bet you they would feel so fucking good. Send you straight to cloud nine, no doubt,” she said followed by giggles from another.

Seokjin rubbed the back of his neck; he felt uncomfortable for being sexualised over his damn hands. Instead of confronting them, the introvert in him chose to simply get up from the table with the excuse of wanting to find a good book to read to pass the time. It’s unexplainable but as he walked away, he could feel multiple pairs of eyes trail his back.

So here he was, flicking through a random book he chose. His eyes glossed across the words and pictures aimlessly. He was bored out of his mind and hoped Hoseok could speed type and finish his assignment so they could get going already. They were planning to grab food and beer before going back to his place for a much-needed FIFA match on his TV. The others would join them eventually, after all, it was Friday which meant gaming until late at night.

He closes the book and begins to place it back in its place before his eye catches a familiar sight through the gap in the shelf. It was of someone hauling a black backpack with a broken strap who stood in the next row browsing through books. The other was turned away but he familiarised himself with the backpack all too well by now to know who was its owner.

A mischievous smirk appeared on Jin’s lips as Jungkook hadn’t noticed him yet with the rows of books in the way. He watches as the other hums a soft tune to himself, momentarily pausing his humming to mutter to himself about the books. Jungkook began to move down the end of the row, towards the deserted area of the library.

“Why are you all torn up?” the younger mutters, tsking at the sight of one of the books. Seokjin watches with amusement as Jungkook didn’t seem like the quiet, reserved boy everyone made him out as. He was quite the chatterbox when he was alone to himself. Jungkook then stops with a soft oh escaping his lips, “finally, found you.”

The younger took the book out of the shelf and rounded the corner to enter the row Jin was at. With that, Seokjin moved forward, surprising the boy who let out a short jump backwards, clutching the book to his chest and his eyes large in shock.

“Found you,” Seokjin lets out with a chuckle.

Jungkook looks up at him, clearly irritated, “Are you following me?”

He shrugs, “You never texted me.”

“Right,” the other says, starting to move away as Seokjin tails him, “You’re stalking me.”

Seokjin chuckles at that, “I’m really not. Fate just wants us to collide.”

Jungkook stops in his tracks and turns to face him with a humoured expression, “Is there something that you want from me?”

“Again, you never texted me,” Seokjin simply repeats.

Jungkook huffs, crossing his arms against his chest, hugging the book once more, “I didn’t know I was obligated to.”

Seokjin places a hand against the bookshelf and plasters his trillion won smile, “You’re not but it would have been a nice enough excuse to start getting to know you.” 

That made Jungkook stiffen in his spot, his confident demeanour turn to worry instantly. Did he say something wrong that made Jungkook look visibly upset? He was about to apologise before he was cut off.

“Look,” he began with a defeated expression, “I don’t know what you’re doing or what you’re playing at. I’m grateful for your help at the carpark and the shop but whatever you’re planning, count me out of it,” Jungkook says, sounding somewhat hurt. He began to turn and walk away and Jin had no means to stop him, feeling somewhat bad.

However, Jungkook halted, turning to walk up to him once more, “You don’t want to know about me and I don’t want to know about you so let’s leave it at that. Can’t have a guy like you associate with a guy like me, who knows what people will say.”

It felt like he got shivved in his gut and was dying from blood loss but death crept to him so agonisingly slow. He wanted to pretend to not understand what Jungkook meant but the truth was, that was their reality.

Seokjin and Jungkook were complete parallels. Seokjin was at the top of the hierarchy while Jungkook was at the lowest pits of it. They were against one another and looked odd to piece the pair together. If one were to frame them together, every critic would say there was something off about them and would fix it by ripping Jungkook out, throwing him in the trash and framing a solo Jin.

He was so focused on his desire to pursue that he didn’t stop to think if Jungkook was comfortable being around him. Wherever Seokjin was, good words and compliments followed. Wherever Jungkook went, insults and curses were thrown at him. Without realising, Seokjin was pushing him into the limelight the other was desperately trying to avoid.

“Hey hyung,” Hoseok voice calls him out of his upsetting thoughts, “I’m finished now. Let’s go.”

Seokjin nods and starts walking ahead. He looks around for the younger but found no sight of him. His mind was clouded with intrusive thoughts, disabling him from focusing properly. He threw his car keys over to Hoseok, worried to drive but made an excuse that he wasn’t bothered instead.

By the time they reached his apartment with bags of food in hand, the others had already arrived and Seokjin tried hard to pretend for the sake of not wanting to spoil the mood. So, he set up the food while the others busied themselves with the drinks, cutlery and booting up his PlayStation.

The loud bass of the music had his bloodstream pumping with adrenaline as he forced himself to have a good time. He tipped the heavy glass bottle of beer against his lips, watching Namjoon and Yoongi play against each other. He laughed as Taehyung and Jimin were cheering them on with food stuffed in their mouths and Hoseok rolling around laughing when Yoongi accidentally scored his own goal.

His mouth was stretched wide, that he was smiling and laughing- having a good time with his best friends in the whole wide world. However, can someone please explain to him how come all he could feel deep inside was: hurt, hurt, hurt.

Seokjin washed the final dirty plate in his sink as the once noisiness of the running faucet and clanking of glassware came to complete utter silence, reminding him of his loneliness. 

The others had briefly left his apartment, laughing and slurring giggles as they packed and cleaned up. Hoseok was a goner, Namjoon hauling him for dear life. Jimin and Yoongi were murmuring to one another about another round of drinks together. Taehyung who was the soberest yet drunk on chicken wings protested to stay but Jimin wasn’t having any of it.

“Hyung, please let me stay. I can barely move anymore,” he pleaded into which Seokjin only snickered before sending him out the door.

“You sound like you’re the drunk one. Plus, I need you to keep an eye out on those drinking buddies and make sure they all get home safe, okay?” Seokjin said, guiding everyone to his front door.

In all honesty, Seokjin just wanted to be alone tonight. He just wanted to drown in alcohol and pretend like he didn’t have a Jungkook-sized burn mark on him. On any other day, he would have let everyone crash over but for tonight, he wanted to confide in solitary and sulk.

He huffed as he leant back against his sofa, staring out into the skyline view of 2 am Seoul. Then his eyes glance over to the white flowers standing tall and pretty in a clear vase on the side table next to his sofa. He feels the regret gnaw at him, wondering why didn’t he just go back to the shop and give the damn flowers to Jungkook.

He understood why the younger wanted to keep his distance and was being careful to appreciate Seokjin but maintain the limit that needed to be respected. The only problem was that Seokjin was selfish. Despite understanding the situation, a part of him wanted to continue running towards Jungkook. The other was like an enigma and it was up to Seokjin to crack the code and understand the secrets that lie behind it.

Seokjin couldn’t care less about the rumours that tailed his infamous name like a shadow. He wanted to discover the Jungkook that’s hidden and misunderstood and knew that there was more to the boy. It was strange, he found a mysterious attraction to the raven-haired and wanted to believe that if he poured more faith into Jungkook, his beauty could steal one’s breath away.

His eyes began to slowly flutter and exhaustion blanketing him warm. He wanted to dream of doe eyes staring at him, smiling at him, whispering sweet nothing. However, the ringing of the intercom rang aloud within his apartment which made him jump in surprise. He got up and checked the monitor that the front desk reception of his serviced apartment was ringing him at such an ungodly hour.

He tapped the answer button, “Hello?” he calls out.

“Our apologies for disturbing you so late in the night. However, there is a guest down here who is persistent to come up. Says he’s your friend?” the voice says unsurely. Seokjin scanned his living room to wonder if one of his friends left something behind.

“Yeah, I had my friends over tonight. One of them must have forgotten something,” Seokjin says before pressing the end call button on the screen. He checks his phone to see if anyone had messaged him in their group chat but the last message was from Hoseok who was sharing photos from the night.

He peered around his living room and kitchen to find anything off but nothing seemed to be misplaced or definitely not his property. Soon, his doorbell rang that made him rush to the door, unsure of what he was searching for. He pushed the door open but was surprised at whose face he met at his doorstep.

“Jungkook,” his voice was hushed and low, shock washing over him. It was small as the sight of the other stole his breath away.

Jungkook shuffled nervously in his spot, he was visibly upset but didn’t make a peep. His eyes stares deep into Jin’s, a silent plea of desperation. His lips were a worrisome pale and his nose ruddy from the cold. He clutched a blanket bundled up in his arms, close to his chest in protectiveness.

The younger looked down to his arms, a strong pout against his lips, “I didn’t know where to go and what to do,” he says as his shaking hands unravel the blanket to reveal black shiny fur, “I think she’s gone.”

Seokjin guided Jungkook into his home and took the blanket and unravelled it on top of his coffee table to show a small, limp and weakened black kitten. Jungkook sat beside him, staring in sorrow and gloom towards the kitten. Jin recognises the kitten from the day they first met, it was the same one he saved from the back alley.

“She only has me. I did everything right. I tried, I really did,” Jungkook muttered quietly to himself but in comparison to Jin’s silent apartment, it was loud and clear.

He looked at the younger, placing a hand on his shoulder, “Hey, it’s going to be okay, alright?” Seokjin looked down at Jungkook’s clenched fists atop his knees and took it into his hand, surprised at how icy cold it was. He placed it on top of the tiny kitten, meeting the other’s sad gaze, “Right now she needs you, okay? I’ll be right back.”

Seokjin then stood up to retrieve his phone on his kitchen island, looking up emergency veterinarians within his area. Once he found one that was open 24 hours and near to him, he called beforehand to check if it was okay to come in. He then requested a taxi before running to take his wallet and coat from his bedroom.

They rushed down together and were at the vet in no time. “Kimi,” Jungkook speaks up as they register the kitten at the counter. Jin turns to him with a fond smile, “that’s her name.”

The two sat in defeated silence as the veterinarian took a look at Kimi. Seokjin flashes his phone’s lock screen to see 3:30 am staring back at him. A tired sigh escapes him, a pounding in his head from the alcohol. He turns his focus towards Jungkook who sat beside him. He looked younger than normal- scared, worried and afraid for the worst.

“She’ll be fine,” he says reassuringly. Jungkook turns to look at him and softly nods. “What happened?”

Jungkook leans back in his seat, gaze aimless and distant, “I noticed since yesterday she seemed a little off, didn’t eat much of her food,” he stars, biting his bottom lips in nervousness, “I came home from work and she usually greets me at the door but I found her on my bed, unresponsive and cold.”

Jin fiddled with his phone, a question at the tip of his tongue, “Why come to me?”

That made Jungkook look straight at him, an intense gaze challenging the other. Slowly, his head shakes and a small chuckle escapes him, as if his reasoning was ridiculous, “I don’t know. My mind was on high alert and before I knew it, I was sprinting out the door, her bundled in my arms.”

He sat up straight, “Wait, you ran to my place?”

“Do you think I can afford a taxi?” Jungkook snaps before turning to look away, “I followed the address on the card you gave. Maybe I came to you because…”

“Because?” Jin queries.

Staring back at him was truthful, sad, dark eyes, “Because I knew you would at least try.”

Seokjin hadn’t expected that reply. It was alarming but no doubt he knew Jungkook was being completely and utterly sincere. Ever since the library, he had been kicking himself around but knowing now how the younger viewed him made peace resonate within him once more. As if his efforts weren’t all in vain.

He wasn’t sure on what he should reply. He felt a little flattered and could only muster a shy smile in response, searching for the right words. However, just as he opened his mouth, the veterinarian called out Kimi’s name to which they both stood up.

“Kimi’s going to be fine,” she starts with a smile to which Jungkook lets out a deep sigh of relief to that, “You said you took her in as a stray, right? Well, she had some underlying health issues which worsened with time but nothing life-threatening. She should be good after taking her medications and having a lot of rest. However, I would like to keep her here for a day or two just to make sure everything’s all right.”

Her gaze altered from the both of them but Jungkook stood frozen so Seokjin took hold of the situation and nodded, “Yeah, of course. Just let us know when we can pick her up.”

They bowed to her and once it was just both of them again, he turned to the younger with a raised hand to stop the other from saying anything, “Don’t worry about it, okay? I’ll take care of it.” Jungkook’s shoulders simply slumped, not resisting Seokjin’s demands. The other didn’t have to say it but he knew he was grateful to Jin.

Jin didn’t need to be a genius to realise that Jungkook was in a sore spot financially. There were dead giveaways from his backpack that still had a broken strap, his sudden burst about affording a taxi and so on. Knowing so made the question arise in his mind. Did Jungkook live alone? Were his parents living outside of Seoul? If they did, Jin wondered if Jungkook had a dialect from wherever he came from.

He settled the bills and nudged Jungkook out of the veterinary. They stood awkwardly; their breath heavy as it turned to smoke from the chilling night. Neither said anything and chose to stay quiet under the neon signs of the city. Did Jungkook not want to go home just yet, he wondered.

“I know you don’t want anything to do with me and I know this whole thing about Kimi is an exception,” Seokjin says to which Jungkook’s cautious gaze snaps up at him from the ground, “But do you want to go to the nearest convenience store, grab a basket and go crazy with foods and drinks. Then we can go back to my place and eat while watching a movie or something?” he suggests.

Jungkook studied him for a moment before sharp eyes met his nervous gaze, “What’s wrong with you?”

Seokjin’s eyebrows furrowed, suddenly feeling taken back by the harshness of the other’s words, “Excuse me?” he says with a defensive tone.

“Seriously speaking,” Jungkook begins, taking slow steps closer to him, “Why are you doing all this? Before winter break, IT boy, Kim Seokjin, wouldn’t bat an eye to me but suddenly you keep popping up in my life.” Jungkook chuckles with a sense of mockery, “Everyone around me is either trying to avoid me or hurt me so where do you land on that spectrum?”

He had enough of taking hits from this kid that thought he knew it all, “Neither,” he states, “I’m not everyone and I don’t want to be everyone to you. I want to be Seokjin-hyung. You can trust me or not but there is not a bone in me that has labelled you other than a big fat question mark. So, you ask me why? I’m determined to replace that question mark that only I can give an answer to.”

Their chest heaved up and down heavily, eyes an intense match that neither wanted to back down from. There was a fire starting in between them that Seokjin wasn’t sure of. All he knew was that Jungkook easily enabled a part of him that was foreign to him. Seokjin had a calm and collected demeanour, careful with his words and never let his emotions run ablaze. However, one look at Jungkook, whom stood under the warm lamp post, ethereal despite the contrast of brightness and darkness, had managed to make him crack.

Jungkook stepped back while looking at him up and down before giving a satisfied, smug smirk, “I’ll take up that offer now. Thank you…” he trails, “hyung.”

A loud scream came from his living room and Seokjin quickly rushed out, halting the process of getting ready thus emerging shirtless. However, all it took was one glance at the scene before rolling his eyes and walking back to his bedroom.

Jimin was over at his house, they had planned to go grab breakfast before class. His friends had a tendency to make themselves very much at home whenever they came over and that includes cannonballing to his very comfy, plush deep-seat sofa. The view of Jimin holding up a squeaky toy in the shape of a mouse gave Jin all the explanation he needed for whatever happened.

Jimin casually walks into his bedroom, plopping himself onto his bed, toy in hand, “Do you have a cat you’re secretly keeping to yourself, hyung? And if you do, how dare you keep that little angel to yourself when you know I’m a certified cat enthusiast.”

He lets out a chuckle as he puts on his watches and rings, “Sorry to kill your dreams but I don’t own a cat. I was just cat-sitting for a friend. Must have left it behind,” he shrugs.

Jimin gave him a dumbfounded expression, “yeah, sure hyung, I totally believe you,” he says sarcastically before glancing at the newest edition to Jin’s décor of a cat castle by his floor to ceiling window, “Plus, I found cat food in your kitchen.”

Seokjin wanted to facepalm himself for forgetting about it.

Ever since Kimi was discharged from the vet, Jungkook allowed Jin to get closer to her. He would bring the kitten over to Jin’s house to play while they’d eat dinner together or hang out. He loved being around Kimi and it was evident to how his phone’s camera roll was bombarded with pictures of her. It came to the point that they were somewhat co-parenting the kitten in a way and it was strange for Jungkook to be completely relaxed with the odd arrangement despite his history of being cautious and wary.

Therefore, during one of Kimi’s follow-up appointments, he and Jungkook decided to go together as usual and while Jungkook was in the room with the veterinarian for a consultation, Jin was browsing through the products they were selling. What Seokjin should understand by now is that whenever he ‘browses’, he will always walk out with a purchase.

This time, he may have gone a little overboard. By the time Jungkook was out with Kimi in hand, Seokjin had picked out a huge bag of kitten food, snacks, toys, water fountains, carriers that looked like a little spaceship and two large cat castles. Jungkook gaped at the madness that Jin could only feel pleased with himself.

“Why did you buy two of everything?” Jungkook asked as Jin was explaining why Kimi absolutely needed a window hammock.

“One for your house and one for mine,” he deadpanned, face stern because he was completely infatuated with the idea of caring for the kitten. Jungkook simply smiled with amusement as Jin realised how serious he sounded and started to get shy and flustered, “I mean, you guys are always over at my house these days and-” he started fumbling for excuses to shield his embarrassment.

“It’s fine, hyung. But I don’t think the castle will fit my house,” Jungkook says which was a big hint to Jin that he was going a little overboard without thinking that Jungkook lived in a small space. He has never exactly gone over but Jungkook had once expressed how amazed he was with Jin’s luxurious apartment and said how his home was probably the size of Jin’s bathroom for scale.

There were many things that Jin had to put back with a pout but it was okay since the easiness of Jungkook letting him buy things for Kimi meant that the younger would come over now even more often.

“A friend of mine comes often with their cat and I just want to be a good host,” he casually says as he picks up his bag and walks out with Jimin tailing behind him, analysing the facts.

The shorter one ponders for a moment before he stops in his track and his face brightens intensely, “Holy shit!” he shouts with excitement that may have been a little unnecessarily loud, “you’re dating someone, right?” he asks as he rushes to pick up his things while keeping up with Jin who’s slipping on his white sneakers.

Jin gives the other a ridiculous look at that before walking out of his house, leaving a hollering Jimin behind him.

Jimin pesters him all morning and even through their breakfast to which Jin resumes to deny it. He wonders when Jimin’s eagerness will die down but it only intensifies when Taehyung spontaneously joins them and the two prove to Jin that they indeed share a singular brain cell.

“Hyung, you’re dating someone?” Namjoon shrieks from the other end of the phone to the point that Jin has to push his phone away from his ear. Seokjin scans the quad because he swears, he can hear the other from a distance. He then feels the slight irritation build inside as the need to stitch Jimin’s big mouth becomes more appealing to him.

He sighs deeply, hanging up before opening his messaging app to see a new message from Jungkook with a photo of Kimi sleeping on her window hammock.

Heh, I knew she would like it.

However, his calmness is short-lived until dinner a few days later as he and his friends are sitting around a round table. What should’ve been a calm dinner of Chinese cuisine turned chaotic as he is bombarded with questions. “Does no one here believe me?” he asks, slumping back in his seat unamused with his friends.

“Don’t worry, hyung. I believe you,” Yoongi says from beside him and they high-five at that. “Plus, Jimin is pretty unreliable about these sorts of things.”

Jimin feigns offence, “I am not!”

Taehyung cuts in speaking with his cheek full of food, “Jimin has a good point though,” he says before swallowing, “Explain why Jin-hyung puts so much effort to the point he has cat food, toys and a boujee castle. This isn’t just a friend.”

“Hyung’s loaded, I mean have you seen all the unnecessary shit he’s bought?” Hoseok chimes in, “No offence hyung, but you seriously have a spending problem that we need to plan an intervention about.”

Seokjin shrugs, scooping his chopstick in his white rice, “Look, my friend comes around sometimes with his cat-”

Jimin stands up from his seat, “It’s a he?!” he belts out and his friends explode with excited chatter once more where all he wants is to disintegrate into nothingness.

Jin and Jungkook have nothing but a bond in development. Okay, sure, Jungkook is special and Jin may harbour some fluttery feelings but for all that’s known, it’s still one-sided. He doesn’t want to scare the other off, not when the younger is beginning to slowly open up little by little to him.

Even if they were together, Jin wouldn’t expose his relationship unless Jungkook wanted him to. Seokjin enjoyed his privacy and didn’t like the idea of others meddling. He liked to keep things to himself and enjoyed the secretive intimacy of his relationships- which weren’t a lot to begin with.

They’ve known each other for a good two months now but Jungkook has only just let Seokjin in his little bubble. He doesn’t want to spoil what they have now just because his heart has issues. It wouldn’t feel right to take advantage of Jungkook that way who only viewed Jin as a friend. In fact, if Jungkook and Jin remained just friends till the end of his days, then it was fine with him.

“Debunk one rumour about you that people on campus still seem to believe,” Seokjin asks as they eat takeout, the TV’s volume on low to not make the apartment seem so quiet. His eyes travel to look at Kimi chasing around a catnip ball before turning back to the raven-haired boy.

Jungkook thinks for a moment, a small cut of beef in his mouth. He chews before replying, “I think people still believe I have a criminal record.”

“Do you?”

“Of course, not,” the younger says, humoured, “I haven’t even stepped inside a police station before.”

They were all smiley to one another but Jungkook’s reply made him think back to the day they first met. The day when the cold felt like prickling needles and crimson blended with the heavy rain. He wondered what happened to Jungkook after Jin left. If there was any action done towards Dohan for the violence and pain he caused.

Jungkook stopped eating to look at his frozen state as if he knew what was racing through his mind, “You can ask me about that day, you know. I don’t mind,” he says reassuringly but there seems to be a slight tremble about recalling that day. He shook his head, “I never reported it,” he answers Jin’s silent question.

“Why didn’t you?” he was quick to ask.

“A part of me wanted to,” he starts, fiddling with the meat in his bowl, “but another part of me just wanted to get out of the rain.”

Jin nods, resumes eating, carefully choosing his words. It feels like he’s treading on very thin ice, “Do you think his actions were validated?”

The younger cocks an eyebrow, “Are you asking me if I deserved it?” he starts to sound annoyed.

Seokjin’s mind is blaring out warning sirens to stop and recover but the atmosphere feels just right to prod a little further, “I’m asking you if it’s true.”

He sounded straightforward and confident; he was seeking answers. Answers to the root that started it all. Jin’s gaze never faltered but stared straight ahead at the boy across from him who looked smaller, more fragile and maybe even a little sad.

After what feels like a long time, Jungkook sighs and leans back to rest against the sofa behind him, “it’s not,” he answers. A small sense of relief floods Jin but then he sees Jungkook opens his mouth once more, “but it’s not entirely false either.”

“Are you comfortable sharing it with me?” he tests the waters.

Jungkook’s gaze looks around in thought for a moment, “I might leave things here and there off.”

“I’m just happy you trust me to even understand a sliver of your pain.”

“Why?” he asks in an instance.

“I believe if you share with me your pain, it will be divided. And if you decide to share your happiness with me, it will be multiplied,” Jin says with a comforting smile, trying to ease the other’s nerves.

Jungkook looks down at his lap, a small smile stretching across his pretty lips, “Okay.”

“Okay.”

“I was escorting,” he says like it’s a breath he’s been holding in for a long time. Jin raises his eyebrows because that really wasn’t what he was expecting for Jungkook to start with. “I don’t do it often, just when money is really tight, I guess. I don’t like it but it at least ensures that I get to pay my monthly bills. That month, my heating system was broken and my landlord kept playing off whenever I asked him about it. With winter in full force, I ended up spending most of my salary to get it fixed instead of waiting around.

“A few days before Christmas, I realised I just didn’t have enough to survive and got back in it. It’s usually easy, accompany a guy for the night as arm candy, mostly at clubs. There’s a specific club I liked to go to where we all wear masks- where anyone could be anybody. And by the end of the night, I would have enough to get by until my next pay. That was the plan until…” he trails.

“Until Dohan showed up?” Jin continues, having now moved from opposite of Jungkook to beside him, resting back against the same sofa.

“I didn’t even know him at all before that night. Let alone the fact that he had a girlfriend. I met him on my way to the toilet and he just showed interest from thereon. He seemed familiar but I just brushed it off, resuming to act like this flirty persona that I often put on whenever I was working. I, of course, ended up back with my guy but from a distance, Dohan was watching my every move.

“After my time was finished and my guy paid me, I was set to quickly leave and go home but Dohan stopped me from leaving. He wooed me to stay and I decided to just see where this would go, you know?” he says, turning to Jin who was simply immersed in listening.

“Jungkook-ah,” he shakes his head, “I’m not them, I’m not going to judge you. You’re safe here to open yourself and be free.”

Jungkook nods, smiling with assurance, “We ended up dancing, making out and just hitting it off, I guess. I had a bad feeling from the start but I wanted to let myself go for once. So, when he suggested getting out of there- I agreed. He got us a room in a motel and it was getting good. We still had our glittery masks on as we hit the bed and I was about to prep him but then midway I just stopped and realised what I was doing.

“His bloodstream was maximum capacity of alcohol and drugs. He was slurring and mumbling all over the place and here I was buzzed but sober enough. It felt wrong and I couldn’t do it so I told him and that he should just sleep it off. He got mad, shoved me and my mask slipped off. After that, I just went home and took a cold shower, forgot about it,” he pauses, licking his dry lips, “That is until the first day of class after winter break.”

Jin raises his hand for the other to stop, “You don’t need to trespass painful memories from that day, I won’t let you.” Jungkook nods appreciatively, reaching for a side dish to ease his nerves. “Jungkook, look at me,” he states affirmatively.

Doe eyes that are round, cautious but warm look back at him, lacing with worry, “You called the right shots. Dohan is a dick for trying to play the victim in this situation. He cheated on Seri willingly and needed to understand why you stopped yourself that night. He could have chosen to thank you for not taking advantage of him but instead turn it to fit his toxic masculine narrative which is so wrong,” he says, subconsciously brushing a stray part of Jungkook’s hair comfortingly, “You don’t owe him or anyone anything,” Jin concludes.

They stay silent, just staring at one another with a silence that was piercing but comfortable and intimate. There wasn’t any more that needed to be said to drag this topic out any longer. Their gaze did snap when a small mew came from between their pressed knees; Kimi gazing up at the two of them.

Jin smiled at her; petting her back but Jungkook went back to looking at him, searching for answers, “You’re still here, why?”

Jin lifts Kimi, pressing his nose to hers. A small giggle escapes him before he turns to the younger, “It’s going to take a lot for you to get rid of me.”

“Hey, you made it,” Jin says with a warm smile as he puts his phone down by his side. He looks towards Jungkook who hesitantly thanks the waiter while clutching the strap of his bag.

They were currently in a somewhat fancy restaurant. The ones that had waiters and had big paned windows overlooking city streets, bright lights in contrast to the dark night sky. He was used to dining at these places. It was no secret on campus that he lived an easy life with his parents aiding him financially. He didn’t like depending on them but his parents did not take no for an answer and told him to save his buck after he graduated. They really were no use in negotiating with them.

Seokjin’s mother had called him the night before that she had reserved a table at a restaurant that was unnecessarily hard to get into. She had planned to go with one of her wine friends but cancelled last minute.

“Eomma, I have dinner plans with someone tomorrow,” he said, not really liking the idea of going. He and Jungkook had made dinner plans, Jungkook wanted to be the one to cook for Jin for once.

“That’s great, sweetheart! Bring your friend along and have a good time, okay?” she said cheerily and before he could refuse once more, his mother ended the call. He looked at his phone and groaned, annoyed that she always did that.

However, now he was more annoyed because Jungkook was really looking forward to cooking. The younger constantly asked him what food he liked and disliked before concluding his menu of stew and side dishes. The last thing Jin wanted to do was rain on his parade.

With reluctance, he dialled Jungkook and asked if Chef JJK would be available to reschedule to the night after. The other gave a small chuckle in response to that before agreeing, said that he didn’t mind rescheduling at all which made Jin feel a twinge of relief. “Hyung, it’s alright. We never eat out so it would be nice.”

What Seokjin gravely didn’t take into consideration was where they would dine and the atmosphere they would be surrounded by. Similar to the view they had, Jungkook was the dark night contrast against the shiny light of the crowd that sported designer luxe. Jungkook was coming from class but Jin was sure he would have refused the moment they arrived at the valet if they arrived together.

Jungkook looked around, shifting in his seat with a tightened expression that was easily understood as comfortless. His eyes glanced to the younger who gave a hard stare towards the menu, his dark wavy locks curtaining his face.

“Jungkook,” he calls out as the other snaps up to look at him, giving a small hum of acknowledgement. Just staring at the other’s surprised expression, the feeling of uneasiness was clear to decipher that Jungkook would love to be anywhere but here. There wasn’t anyone looking towards them per se but Seokjin wouldn’t be able to eat right knowing how Jungkook felt despite the lack of indication. He just knew neither of them would have a good time.

“Let’s ditch this place,” he says with a mischievous smirk, “it’s a little late for cooking so why don’t we just get takeaways and you can tell me about your day?”

He doesn’t let Jungkook pipe a word before standing up and gesturing for the other to follow him out. They don’t say anything until the lift door closes the two in, “Was it so obvious?” he asks.

Jin looks to him to be met with pretty brown eyes gazing at him with intent. He shakes his head, “Nah, the menu looked unappetising anyway. I think I’ll take Chef Jungkook’s cooking any day,” he says, side-eyeing the other, “Even if he disappointingly chars the life out of it,” he adds, earning a sharp playful hit.

They walk together down the lively streets of Gangnam and the air around them feels warmer as spring approaches them with zero hesitation. Nights aren’t chilly but pleasantly bearable. He wonders to himself if Jungkook likes spring or prefers autumn. He ponders at the idea of bringing Jungkook to the countryside during the summer to pick strawberries together.

It’s an awestruck feeling that’s fleeting as he watches Jungkook look up at neon signboards, completely unaware of how beautiful they make his eyes sparkle. Maybe it’s the way the younger mumbles to himself from time to time, thinking Jin wouldn’t notice it. Then he concludes it’s definitely the way Jungkook gives dull looks to passengers on the train but then catches Seokjin staring at him and then there’s a heartbeat moment where the darkness comes to life.

This must be what infatuation feels like.

It’s late and small businesses are closing off for the night and the small alleyway is growing quiet as it settles into slumber. Seokjin looked up to the sky and could faintly see the stars and thought how familiar they looked. He wonders if he’ll see those same stars by his side as the horizon turns from blueberries to persimmons.

The sound of footsteps approaching behind him makes him turn to see Jungkook exit the store with bags of takeaway food in hand. Jungkook speaks as Seokjin takes one bag, “You know, I live around here actually,” he says which makes Jin glance up at him in surprise of what he thinks the younger is insinuating, “would you like to come over to my house?”

Seokjin doesn’t realise that he doesn’t respond but instead freezes, quite out of character for him. It’s just that the sudden invitation caught him off guard. They had always gone over to Jin’s house for dinner and it felt like Jungkook practically lived there. He completely forgot that Jungkook had his own place to call home.

He must have taken longer to process because Jungkook began to ramble, “I mean it’s nothing fancy, actually pretty ridiculous compared to your snazzy apartment, hyung. I mean- like we can just go to your place; I was just thinking out loud-”

“I’d like to go to your house,” Jin cuts him off with a soft smile, one where his eye crinkle and utter fondness is practically dripping off him.

Jungkook looks surprised for a moment before nodding, “Yeah, okay, great.”

So here they were, in Jungkook’s little home. The owner of the home was flustered from the start, apologising for the mess when nothing was out of place to start. His house was small in size but was homey and comfortable. The liveable area was probably as big as his closet but each corner had a purpose if that made sense. Jungkook put up artwork and sketches, small memorabilia here and there. There was one corner specifically for Kimi’s food bowl and water fountain and toys.

He caught a glimpse of a photo frame by his bedside that seemed to look like a family photo. He debated with himself but his curiosity got the best of him, “Is that your family?” he asks.

The other was setting up their food on a foldable table in the middle of the room, eyes darting to the frame before looking down to resume his plating, “Yeah, they’re back in Busan,” he simply replies.

Seokjin wants to hold back but he decides to press on since the topic has opened and he doesn’t know when the next opportunity will come. It was a chance to get to know more about Jungkook and to understand the parts that he was certain no one else knew about or tried to understand.

He sits down across from Jungkook and they start to quietly eat while Kimi meows beside him, pawing and asking for nibbles of his food. “Do you go back home often?” he tries.

Jungkook hesitates, knows where this is going and is counselling himself if it’s okay to allow Jin to enter uncharted territories. Seokjin can’t help but feel nervous since it’s blatantly obvious that talking about family is a sensitive topic. He doesn’t want to pressure Jungkook nor force him to open up- god, that’s the last thing he wanted.

He tries to reassure Jungkook that he doesn’t have to talk about it and that they can simply change topics. However, he’s cut mid-sentence by Jungkook peering up at him, “They kicked me out after I graduated high school.”

Seokjin can’t hide his shock and sympathy to which Jungkook simply chuckles at his reaction. “It’s fine,” the younger reassures. “I came out to them during my senior year. My parents were furious. Eomma came around eventually a few months after I was kicked to the streets. My hyung was always supportive of me but he was in university when all this went down so I really didn’t have anyone back then.”

Jin is reminded of when his parents found out. He never really came out properly. He wanted to make it casual and slide the surprise to his parents, not allowing them to protest his choices. He never had any proper relationship and always kept his private life to himself- the secrecy wasn’t fond over by his parents. They were always prying but never found success.

That is until one night during dinner, they had gone to a wedding earlier in the day. His parents were discussing future venues for his older brother to wed in despite not having a partner. They liked planning ahead and were always ambitious like that.

It came to when his parents were suggesting a venue for Jin’s future wedding at a luxury resort to which he replied, “I don’t know, I kind of like the idea of an outdoor wedding- pretty sure my future husband would like that too,” he said before taking a smooth sip of red wine, completely ignoring the sudden shock his parents expressed.

Now that he thinks of it, he should feel lucky that they never made a fuss or rejected him for it. Sure, it started out a little awkward but they eased into the idea and accepted him. He was embraced while Jungkook was banished. It made a sense of guilt bubble inside him. That he never realised how comfortable his life had been while Jungkook seemed to be living the worst day ever, every day.

“That’s how I got into escorting. It was easy money but never saw it as sustainable for me. I wanted to enrol in university, build a lifelong career…” the younger trails before turning to look at Kimi with an expression so soft and fond, “start a family,” he finishes quietly. Jin watches as Kimi silently approaches Jungkook, pawing at his knee before leaning her small head against his warm palm. 

He’s brought back to the day where the clouds were crying and so was the kitten. He remembers clearly as if he’s seeing it before his eyes once again as Jungkook crouches down to the soggy cardboard box and lifts the fluffy black tuff towards his chest. He recalls how gentle the younger held her despite being bruised, bloodied and exhausted.

“She’s like me. We were both abandoned, scared and alone but now we’ve found each other,” Jungkook says with a foreign expression, a side to him that Seokjin is seeing for the first time.

He feels the heaviness of his beating heart and he’s unsure if he’ll make it out of this night alive if Jungkook continues to show this part of him. Seokjin feels like he should hide the younger from the world and treasure him for himself. It’s sacred.

Jungkook smiles down at Kimi who’s giving tiny licks to the pad of his finger fondly before his eyes dance their way to him, “We’re family now,” the younger says and that’s when Seokjin finally understands what it is.

It’s love.

“Are you really not dating anyone?” Namjoon asks cautiously and Jin glares at him because he’s tired.

Namjoon had come over to his place to help him prepare for Yoongi’s birthday party. To repay for his help, Seokjin had made a delicious lunch of Namjoon’s favourites. However, now he’s debating to take the other’s bowl away and refuse feeding him anymore.

Every year since they’ve all met, Jin has made it a personal mission to be in charge of throwing outlandishly large parties for all their birthdays. He’s unsure why but the aspects of birthdays excite him and he is an advocate of ensuring that a big party is a non-negotiable necessity.

Namjoon was free and decided to give him a helping hand. Jin was in charge of handling the venue and the cake while Joon was arranging with the team of decorators. They also had to go over party supplies and make sure the food and drinks were in accordance. This party was going to be awesome and Seokjin was buzzing with anticipation for Yoongi’s birthday to come already.

“Like, I know you must be annoyed with us but you can’t blame us, you’ve never been involved with anyone like ever,” the younger one says with a shrug.

“Involved, huh,” he muses.

“Well, just look around you, hyung. You have cat stuff all over the place and not to mention,” he says pointing to Jin up and down, “That is definitely not yours.”

Seokjin cocks an eyebrow before looking down and he groans inwardly. He accidentally wore a black graphic hoodie that Jungkook had left behind, mistaking it as his. Jungkook had accidentally spilt beer on it so Jin took it to wash and then it was forgotten history.

A deep sigh of defeat escapes him as he finally gives in, “it’s not that serious.”

Namjoon squeals with excitement before pushing to know even more and Jin can’t really wriggle away after being caught red-handed. “Can’t believe Jimin was right all this time! So who’s the lucky guy, hyung? Do I know him? Is he from our university?” he fires question after question.

Jin is amused at the anticipated expression Joon wears and leans in forward near the other, “I’ll tell you and only you but you better keep your lips zipped or I’ll hang a giant banner of the drunk nude you sent me at Yoongi’s birthday,” he threatens with humour, responded with obedience. He leans back and looks away with a shy smile, “It’s Jungkook.”

Namjoon is taken aback instantly, freezes his expression before confusion comes, “As in Jeon Jungkook? The guy that got beat up at the start of the year?”

He’s bemused at how his friend (and probably everyone else) think of Jungkook’s name and instantly recalls that incident. As if he’s attached to the hip with that dark day. It doesn’t sit right with him but he can’t blame them, they don’t know the Jungkook that he knows and deeply cares for.

Instead of fighting Joon about it, he decides to simply accept that that’s just how it is now, “Yes, that Jungkook. We’re not really anything at the moment but,” he thinks, Jungkook’s pretty smile flashing in his mind, “I like him.”

Namjoon stares at him as if he’s currently having technical issues at processing the information given that his best friend, the IT boy of their university, is together with someone infamous with trouble sticking to him like a shadow. “You guys are from two different worlds, complete parallels,” he starts. However, Seokjin is unsure if Namjoon truly believes it or he sees the insecure rising anxiety in him, “yet, you guys found each other. I’m happy for you, hyung,” he says with a soft dimpled smile.

Seokjin pouts and stands up, rounding the corner before engulfing the other in a tight hug. He doesn’t like sharing his private life with others because he’s always had that small fear of being unaccepted by others. Namjoon chuckles at the sudden affection before they resume eating.

They talk about Jungkook and Jin gushes over Kimi, and shows Joon pictures of her. He shows the younger videos of her too and Seokjin flushes when Jungkook is in view smiling and laughing which Joon notes is a strange sight to see.

“You guys look happy yet you’re not together?” Namjoon asks as they migrate to the sofa.

Jin shrugs, “It’s one step at a time with him. I have to be careful and wait for opportunities instead of forcing my feelings on him. I don’t even know if he’s interested in me that way.”

“Mm, well I hope that opportunity comes soon. I want you guys to get together and get to know him too! He sounds like a cool guy from what you’ve said,” Namjoon says as Seokjin sets up the PlayStation. “You know what, hyung?” he adds, making him hum in acknowledgement. “Why don’t you invite Jungkook to the party?” he suggests.

Jin stops his actions, processing the question a million times but an error keeps popping up. He turns to look back at his best friend with a confused look, “What?”

Namjoon leans back and shrugs, “Why would you not? I mean, have you guys been out together in public?”

He sits upright, “Of course we have. We go hang out and grab dinner on most nights.”

“Ouch. So that’s why you’re always cancelling dinner plans with us,” the younger feigns being shot in the chest as Seokjin rolls his eyes. “Seems like Jungkook is comfortable being around you now. Bring him to the party, surprise everyone and then introduce us to him. It’ll help him break out of his shell,” Namjoon says as if the whole act of bringing Jungkook to a club packed with people from their university would be easy-peasy.

“I don’t know…” Jin says, reluctant to force Jungkook into an uncomfortable setting. He takes the consoles and walks back to the sofa, passing one to the younger before plopping down with a conflicted expression.

“Jungkook doesn’t seem like a people person, I get that,” Namjoon shrugs but turns to give him a cheeky smile, “It wouldn’t hurt to ask?”

Thus, seven hours later, here they are on the sofa. Seokjin was nervous while Jungkook looked at him wide-eyed and silent. The only noise heard was the bell on Kimi’s collar as she ran around chasing a ball.

Please say something.

He knew it was a bad idea to follow through with Namjoon’s plans. Once the other left after their Mario Kart session and Jin to his thoughts, he couldn’t stop thinking about it. Of course, he wanted the younger to meet his friends and he was sure the party would be fun as they drank the night away.

He started to imagine what it would look like; having Jungkook by his side all night, the two enjoying the other’s company. They would drink concoctions that would burn their throats and maybe even witness drunk Jimin and the birthday boy dancing on top of the tables as the rest of them laughed and recorded the silly two. 

Then he thinks about dancing with Jungkook, his skin tingles at the vision of them close, chest-to-chest, swaying to the upbeat music. He desires to feel Jungkook’s hands on his waist and their breaths mingling. He wants to feel how warm Jungkook’s body is against him.

However, there’s no denying the evident twinge of shattering expectation he feels as Jungkook stares back at him with fear. It’s the same eyes he sees when they first met so Seokjin has learned to recognise it, has witnessed it being worn on multiple occasions.

“I’m sorry,” he starts, looking down at his empty hands, “I knew it would be silly to ask.” He smiles at the younger one reassuringly before getting up to get them both ice cream for dessert. He can feel Jungkook’s gaze sticking to his back as he moves around his kitchen. From his peripheral view, he can see Jungkook glancing down at his fidgety hands, looking away like he’s debating with himself before turning back to look at him once again.

“I would’ve gone,” Jungkook finally says as he sits back down on the sofa, handing a small bowl of ice cream to the other. He cocks an eyebrow at the younger, “I would have but you know I have the late shift on Fridays.”

He completely forgot. He remembers Jungkook’s work schedule but thoughts of the party made it slip off his mind completely. If Jungkook went to the party, he would’ve been too tired to stay around past midnight especially since he would be taking the day shift the next day.

Jin covers his face in embarrassment and heard Jungkook’s melodic laugh at his actions which only prompted his neck and ears to grow red. He shoves Jungkook playfully before taking a spoonful of his ice cream to cool him down.

Jungkook’s wide smile that showed off his pearly whites and bunny teeth was easily Seokjin’s favourite smile. “Did you really want me to come? I’m not going to lie to you, I don’t know what to expect if I came and how others would react. But I still would’ve come, since it’s your party,” Jungkook says as he finishes the last of his ice cream.

Seokjin shrugs, “I wanted to introduce you to my best friends, which let me assure you, are the coolest dorks around campus. Most importantly, I just wanted you to have a fun night,” he says, trying not to seem shy about it. He leans back against the sofa, “Plus, the next legendary Kim Seokjin party would be Namjoon’s birthday on 12th September which is so far away.”

Jungkook perks up at that, “Oh, my birthday is in September as well. It’s on the 1st.”

Seokjin smirks mischievously, “Well then, let me retract my statement. The next legendary Kim Seokjin party will be on the 1st of September then,” he announces to which the other simply chuckles in response.

It’s a few days later and he’s doing a double-take around the nightclub, checking on the cake and music as Taehyung tells him that Hoseok has finally pulled up with the man of the hour. Jimin is lighting all the candles as everyone approaches the centre of the club awaiting Yoongi.

The party has been in motion for an hour already and he’s already had a drink or two to keep him buzzed. He booked the entire club to hold all their friends from university which made the atmosphere livelier. He sees mostly familiar faces but of course, there are foreign additions to which he doesn’t really mind since the more the merrier.

He checks his messages with Taehyung and is about to close his phone before his chat with Jungkook catches his eye. He opens it to reveal a photo of Jungkook in his cute uniform, throwing a lazy peace sign. Have fun tonight, is the message below the photo which was their final interaction.

He would’ve liked Jungkook to come but it’s not like there was anything Jin could do about it. For now, he just has to settle with taking lots of photos and videos to show Jungkook later and maybe save some of the cake for him as well.

“Happy Birthday!” everyone shouts as Yoongi emerges with a wide smile on his face. They sing to him as he approaches his tiered cake, face illuminated by the bright candles before Yoongi blows them all out.

“Alright, let's get shitfaced!” Yoongi screams as the partygoers’ roar with cheers.

The music plays loudly once more and everyone is hugging Yoongi and congratulating him. “Welcome to the oldies club, bestie,” Jin jokes, hugging Yoongi.

Their group hangs around the bar area, drinking and having a fun time. Hoseok was telling the group a funny story about Yoongi needing to be picked up after a one night stand, “You guys should’ve seen him running out of the house barefoot and shirtless while holding a bottle of tequila that he stole! It was fucking insane!”

Seokjin laughed loudly with the others before taking a sip of his drink, leaning against the bar beside Jimin who was sitting on the stool. They continued passing around embarrassing stories about Yoongi before drowning together in alcohol.

”Oh?” Jimin says, sitting upright from his relaxed position as he stares past Yoongi who was in front of him. “Isn’t that Jeon Jungkook?”

At the sound of his name, Seokjin snapped his head towards the same direction and low and behold, in leather pants and a thin, fitted, dark grey sweater, Jungkook stood under the neon lights searching around the club. He simply couldn’t imagine it; this must be some weird hallucination from all the drinks he’s had but everyone seems to see Jungkook as well.

Before anyone could utter another word, he places his drink down and walks over towards Jungkook. The moment their eyes caught one another; he could feel his heartbeat louder than the rhythm of the music that was playing. Jungkook looked gorgeous and Seokjin understood the fluttering feeling in his gut.

“You made it,” Seokjin said, leaning in close to the other's ear before pulling back to create space in between them.

Jungkook smiled nervously before placing his hands against Jin’s chest and shoulder, leaning in to reach his ear. The actions were simple but his attraction for Jungkook made him start to feel lightheaded. They have never been this physically close before so Jin couldn’t be blamed for feeling a little delirious.

“My boss let me leave early and I asked a coworker to cover my shift for tomorrow so…” Jungkook trails, his lips barely brushing against the shell of Jin’s ear. “I’m all yours tonight,” he says before pulling back to give a cheeky smile.

I’m all yours tonight.

Jeon Jungkook, you truly will be the death of me.

“That’s great!” he shouts, taking note at their close proximity and Jungkook’s hands still on him. From this close distance, he takes attention to how gorgeous Jungkook is even under the flashing strobe neon lights. He styled his raven hair in wet-like locks and smelled heavenly; Seokjin had to refrain from giving in to the temptation of burying his face into the younger. His sweater was fitted but loose at the neck hole, showing off Jungkook’s pearly skin, broad shoulders and defined collarbones.

He had never seen Jungkook like this. He was always in comfy baggy clothes whenever they hung out. Therefore, it was a fresh sight to see Jungkook showing off his alluring build that he’s worked hard on. He had explained to Jin that he would often go to the university’s gym to work out but stopped after the whole incident with Dohan. Of course, Jin offered his apartment’s gym to him and they’ve been working out together there from time to time.

“Those are your friends, right?” Jungkook asks as he gestures behind Seokjin, towards the bar where he left them. Everyone knew of their little friend group full of popular faces from top-scoring students, star athletes and social butterflies. It also helped that Jin had shown him a group photo when Jungkook asked about them.

He turned his head back to glance at them, terrified at their predicted reactions. However, he was met with all five of his friends gawking at them before averting their gazes to not seem that obvious (who were they fooling?). He sees Namjoon raising a thumbs up to him with a wide smile and it reassures him.

Reassures that it’ll be fine.

He turns back to Jungkook and nudges the other to follow his lead. They walk side by side and it’s obvious that many eyes have turned towards the unlikely pair. He ignores it but as he looks to his side and Jungkook is staring down at the floor as they walk, he can’t help feel proud at how brave the younger is. “Hey,” he says, grabbing Jungkook’s attention immediately to look up at him, “eyes on me.”

Jungkook gives him a small reassuring smile with a little nod as they finally approach the bar. “Guys, this is Jeon Jungkook. He’s the friend that’s been coming over to my place a lot with his cat,” he says loudly, wondering if they can hear the wobble in his voice over the pounding music.

A sea of nervous faces turns to happy ones as Yoongi is the first to break the ice, “Hey man,” he says, going in for a handshake, “Thanks for coming to my party.”

Jungkook’s face melts into a shy demeanour as they all pull him in to introduce themselves. On the other hand, Jin stands behind and is glad that they were able to welcome Jungkook nicely.

“I gave them a brief explanation when you left,” Namjoon says from beside him as they watch Taehyung gush over how hot Jungkook looks in his outfit. “You might need to sit them down and properly tell everyone about you two but for now,” he pauses to reach behind him to the bar and grabs two shot glasses, “it’s time to party!”

Jin takes one and clinks it with Joon’s before tipping his head back and making a face at the instant effects. He notices that many of the partygoers stop and stare before whispering at the sight of Jungkook. However, he sees that Jungkook tries hard to pay no mind other than a weary quick glance around.

“We need to get you wasted,” Jimin shouts to Jungkook. Jin reaches to the tray of shot glasses and passes it over to him. He watches amusingly as Jungkook laughs at Jimin’s enthusiasm and raises the shot to his lips. Then, Jungkook’s sharp gaze focuses on Jin as he drinks and there’s something in the way those eyes look at him tonight.

It’s different; it’s calling him, coils around his body and constricts before devouring him. It’s dangerous; the world around him disappears and it’s just Jungkook looking like the lovechild of heaven and hell. It’s on a mission; a mission to wreck him inside out.

“One more,” he says subconsciously. Jungkook smirks at him and trades his empty glass with a new one before taking it straight down like a pro. It’s like Jungkook’s teasing him and he finally gives in to what he thinks the younger really wants. “That’s it,” he says, taking Jungkook’s hand and guiding him over to the ocean of bodies dancing to the pounding music.

Jungkook giggles as he is dragged. Jin turns back a few times to look at the most gorgeous man in the room, unable to fathom how lucky he is to be the centre of attention of said man.

At first, there’s a space in between them as they dance and laugh together. There are faces that turn towards them but he’s pretty sure he and Jungkook are done caring about what others have to say about them anymore.

A distance becomes close enough with time and Jin’s mind is empty other than taking in how beautiful Jungkook looks. He wants to savour every moment with him. Capture his view as Jungkook unwinds, the lights hitting his face just right each time. Not a moment nor a frame- Seokjin doesn’t want to miss a thing when it comes to Jungkook.

God, he’s drunk on Jungkook.

He’s hit with a wave when Jungkook turns around and leans back into his chest. Seokjin’s hand automatically snakes to his waist as if it belongs there. It’s a different kind of emotion that disrupts Jin’s inner turmoil, having the expanse of Jungkook’s entire body flushed against him. Where he is being given permission to feel the curve and soft edges of a body carved by angels and devils. This Jungkook is daring, fierce and making his mark.

Once it starts to get really hot, Jungkook guides them out of the crowd to go back to the bar and drink. Seokjin sees his and Yoongi’s mutual friend from high school waving and calling him over from one of the booths. He guesses Jungkook can handle himself at the bar with the group so he heads over to his friend.

“Myungsoo, glad you came,” Jin says, hugging him.

“And miss one of your parties? I gotta be out of my mind!” he says as they laugh, “Man, every party, it just gets crazier. Can’t wait for your birthday party though, how are you going to top last year’s one where you hosted it on a fucking yacht!”

Jin shrugs and eyes the two girls sitting at the booth as well. Myungsoo introduces one as his girlfriend and her friend. Jin shakes their hands with a warm smile, “Hope you girls have fun tonight,” he says before turning back to Myungsoo, “Order a round of drinks and tell them to put it on my tab alright.”

They chat a bit more and he can feel the burning gaze of the other girl as she tries to squeeze herself into their conversation with each opportunity that she gets. Seokjin has seen girls like her too many times but as always, he’s too polite to turn her down even when she starts getting brave and placing her hand on him.

However, as soon as her hand attempts to touch his bicep once more, it’s removed and replaced with a weight resting against his side and an arm around his waist. He looks to his side and sees Jungkook with two tall glasses in hand. He takes one with a small smile.

“Is this your…” Myungsoo asks but Jin doesn’t quite catch what he’s insinuating and before he queries, Jungkook cuts him.

“Yeah, I am. I’m Jungkook,” he says as the two shake hands. Jungkook turns to Jin and leans to his ear, “I was waiting for you at the bar but you were taking too long.”

He mouths an apology before taking a sip of the bubbly drink Jungkook got for him. It’s still giving him chills, the way the younger comfortably rests himself against Jin. Thus, no, Seokjin will not focus on the hand around his waist either as he knows, he will short-circuit from it.

“You got a cute catch, Seokjin-ssi,” Myungsoo’s girlfriend states, gesturing over to Jungkook who only smiles politely at her before shaking his head. He must not recognise them so figured that they weren’t from their university. The Jungkook that was around strangers was much friendlier and seemed more comfortable.

“Babe, I’m shutting your idea for a foursome right now,” Myungsoo says jokingly, roaring with laughter while he receives an eye-roll from her.

The other girl who was once interested in Jin and couldn’t stop touching him was now suddenly quiet and kept to herself. Just then, their drinks arrive and Seokjin decides it’s time for him and Jungkook to leave and let them enjoy their drinks.

It’s just past midnight and Jin excuses himself to go to the toilet, Yoongi tags along to go too. They’re washing their hands and fixing themselves up when Yoongi turns to him, “Jungkook, he seems cool.”

Jin can’t help but chuckle at how he knew; Yoongi tagged along to pry an explanation out of him. He shrugs, “I like him, a lot.”

“I’m happy for you, hyung. Hope you’ve got a whole slideshow presentation for us all to explain what, how, why and when,” Yoongi replies humouredly, “It’ doesn’t help that he’s also hot as hell! I’ve seen him a few times on campus but never like that. I mean you always hear about him but maybe it takes to see the man for yourself and getting to actually know him before making conclusions.”

“We aren’t even together but I mean, I feel like he’s too gorgeous for his own good and all I want to do is hide him from the world,” Jin says as they exit the toilet, walking down the dimly lit hallway, “Funny how he shows this dangerous side of him now and not within the months we’ve known each other.”

“Pretty sure his naked form is his ultimate form. Once anyone gets to see that, it’s game over,” The younger replies jokingly. However, Yoongi stops suddenly in his track, expression turning sour instantly “Holy fuck, hyung. Look.”

Seokjin follows his gaze towards the bar and pales at the sight he sees. It’s Dohan standing in front of Jungkook with his posse crowding him. He sees his group telling them to leave and he’s thankful to them for protecting Jungkook. However, he’s worried because Jungkook doesn’t look scared or angry. He’s emotionless which seems to be worse.

“Didn’t know this club held Fag Fridays. You seem to fit right here don’t you, Jungkook-ssi,” Dohan says, reaching a hand up to touch the younger’s face but Seokjin was faster and shoves him away. He stumbles back at the suddenness, face twisting with anger, “the fuck? Kim Seokjin? What the fuck was that for?!” he yells, straightening up.

“It’s my party and I’m warning you and your friends to get the hell out of here now,” Seokjin warns, a hand placed behind him, blindly capturing Jungkook’s hand.

As they stare down at one another, Seri comes into view and approaches Dohan, looking at Seokjin and Jungkook with disgust, “Seokjin-oppa, why are you protecting that sleazy liar? Don’t you know what he’s done? He’s disgusting, poor and someone you shouldn’t be seen with.”

“Yah, Lim Seri, watch your mouth,” Hoseok shoots, “You want to profile someone, why don’t you start with yourself first? Namjoon’s already called security so save yourself the embarrassment and get the hell out of here.”

“Should we?” Dohan rhetorically asks Seri and his friends before turning to face Seokjin once more, “I don’t know, seeing that piece of shit again makes my blood boil. Seokjin-ssi, know your standards that a man of your status shouldn’t be seen with trash like that. Hand him over and I’ll get him out of your hair,” he says obnoxiously, reaching to push him away from Jungkook.

He’s had enough now.

“Oh, shut the fuck up, Park Dohan,” he spits out before throwing a strong fist to Dohan’s once smug face, watching him fall to the ground with a loud groan of pain. Around them, people gasp, Seri screams but Jin’s only focus is towards the hands that grip his shirt from behind.

He turns and places a hand on Jungkook’s waist, guiding him to leave the area until security escorts them out. But they only get far enough until Dohan yells and charges at them. He’s pissing Seokjin off and he is ready to properly beat him to a pulp but what he doesn’t expect is the series of events.

Jungkook is faster at reacting and as Dohan is ready to strike them, Jungkook turns and kicks him hard enough to send him flying off his feet, hitting the massive tiered birthday cake that topples all over Dohan. The sight is astonishing and comical. The club is dead silent for a moment, awed at witnessing such a moment before everyone breaks into cheers and whistles for Jungkook.

Dohan is covered in cake, frosting and edible glitter but it’s Yoongi that gives him the cherry on top by popping a bottle and pouring its content all over the asshole, “That’s for ruining my party, dipshit,” he says before being pushed away as Dohan’s friends try to help him up.

Dohan shoves them away from him with an angry yell ripping out of him before giving him and Jungkook a stare ready to kill, “Oh fuck,” Jin says, grabbing the younger’s hand and running as fast as he can towards the exit. They look back to see Dohan and his friends running after them which makes them sprint out harder.

The crisp night air feels like a bucket of iced water poured on them. “Here!” Jungkook shouts, pulling Jin hand-in-hand towards an alleyway across the street so they can escape Dohan and his posse. Seokjin pushes Jungkook against the wall into a dark corner within the alleyway as he hears Dohan’s angry voice.

He peers carefully around the corner to see Dohan and his friends rush towards the wrong way. This was crazy, he had never gotten into a fight or altercation yet here he was. His heart was drumming against his ribcage and adrenaline was pumping with vigour in his bloodstream.

He turns to look at Jungkook who was staring up at him, searching his face with amusement before they burst out laughing. The emotions they were feeling was like a cocktail; a mixture of excitement, daringness and a fluttery little thing.

That’s why when Jungkook wrapped his arms around Jin’s neck while his hands fell resting on the younger’s waist; breath escaping their lungs and the remnant taste of tequila, lime and cherry landed on his tongue- it simply felt complete.

The feeling of Jungkook’s lips against his own lips completes him.

He’s unsure of how they get here but he’s far from complaining.

He remembers the way light would fade in and out from the taxi’s backseat. He remembers wandering hands all over his body and the warmth of skin against skin. In a short blip, he sees the driver clicking his tongue at the sight of them but he pays no mind to it. He recalls the puffs of breath fanning his heated skin and small whimpers, unsure if it’s coming from him or another.

However, what is crystal clear to him is the comforting constant pressure of Jungkook’s lips against his.

He’s not foreign to going home with someone. Always just a hookup, nothing more, always less. It’s often going back to their place because he couldn’t stand having strangers or acquaintances enter his home, his safe space. No one ever mentions going home with someone and the lustful desire decreasing with every minute passing to their end destination. The lust just swirls and dissipate and sometimes, by the time they reach the bed, the fire has simply been put out.

But as usual, Jin is too polite to not comply with his end of the transaction. No feelings, just sex. That’s how it’s always been. It’s always been actions with no feelings lingering and by the end of their endeavours, he would leave by dawn with nothing left behind in between the sheets then just another warm body.

However, this is strange. It’s foreign. It’s suffocating. It’s delicious.

He’s never felt his heart drum this way or his bloodstream pump with so much adrenaline. He feels needy yet with Jungkook’s wandering fingers mapping the expense of his body- he feels wanted.

To be desired has become an accustomed norm to him; always the centre of attention, loved and adored by many. Despite that, to be wanted in the way Jungkook wants him feels completely fresh. It’s the want to take in his beauty and flaw, to accept the good and the bad- to absolutely surrender in being intertwined with him to the end of their days.

He knows this from the way those black, empty eyes have turned fond and sparkly. It’s from the way the younger was always cautious, keeping a safe distance and protective of himself to now pulling Seokjin as close as he possibly could. It’s the journey they’ve gone through from that rainy day to loving in the dark.

The air within his apartment is not lust nor the chase to be satisfied. It’s clear from the way they stumble into his apartment in kisses with giggles escaping them as they fumble. It’s the way they fall onto the sofa, Seokjin straddling the younger’s thick thighs and pausing to relish in the beauty below him; how the shadow of his dark apartment work well with the brightness of the city illuminating Jungkook. Their minds are clear, vacant of alcoholic intrusion and the clarity of devotion to the other.

“You’re so beautiful,” he says like a confession of sin.

Eyes dripping with awe and affection stare up at him, a hand raising to rest against his cheek, “If only you could see yourself from my point of view.”

A trail of clothing from Jungkook’s sweater to his black pants lead from the hallway to his closed bedroom door. They crash against the white cotton, clad with nothing but skin. For a moment, the world around them ceases to exist, it’s silent and quiet, respectful and courteous.

I want you to want yourself the way you want me.

He leans with a deeper kiss, soothing the other as he pushes a finger in. The younger pulls him down, comforting him back as they start something they can never take back now. Muffled whines and winces escape Jungkook but Seokjin knows he’s gentle and careful. He wants to take in the sight of every furrowed brows and fluttering eyes that he causes.

He’s three fingers deep in the younger’s warm, wet cavern when Jungkook turns to him, lips glistening and swollen and eyes full of content. Seokjin leans in and kisses his eyelids softly, hoping his sincerity is conveyed.

“We can stop.”

“I don’t want to. I want you.”

Seokjin can’t help smiling widely, he’s filled to brim with happiness. He captures the younger’s lips one last time before climbing above him, hands filled with meaty thighs as he pushes them high and apart. Jungkook looks away shyly for a moment as Seokjin stares down at his most intimate area. Quietly whines when Jin rakes his eyes over how absolutely beautiful Jungkook is- his mind, body and soul.

His hand ghosts against the younger’s desperate erection, seeking to be pleased. He leans down, eyes on Jungkook before licking a strip from the base and circling the head. His pointed tongue teases and Jungkook looks close to passing out as he places a passionate kiss at the sensitive tip.

He chuckles when Jungkook expresses his frustration before sitting up once more. Deciding that fine, I’ll give you what you deserve. He slowly sinks into the younger, the slipperiness of lube and the extent prep he did making the ordeal easier yet unforgivingly arousing. His mind goes to places at how perfect they fit, as if this hole was meant to be filled only by him. The delusion that Jungkook was made for him and he belonged to the younger.

Their chests are rubbing against one another as they kiss, hands intertwined against the softness of the sheets all while Seokjin’s hips lazily push and pull. He closes his eyes as he lets Jungkook’s lips travel to his neck, making his mark of bruises he never wants to fade away. One of the younger’s hands is on his waist, caressing the curve of his torso.

He relishes in their affection. Sex has always felt like a race, to be fast, determined, eyes focused only towards the finishing line. However, with Jungkook, it’s like a journey to a destination. There’s an ending point but time is given to admire, to experience and to understand. The night seems to wait for them instead of letting time pass them. It gives them the opportunity they deserve since the first day they met.

He leans down, capturing the younger’s bud in the heat of his mouth while Jungkook squeals in sensitivity. He looks up surprised at the reaction but is amused at the same time especially when he goes down once more and Jungkook is softly gripping his hair. He feels Jungkook squeeze around him which encourages him to gradually pick up the paces.

“I learn something new about you every day,” he quips before nibbling down at the skin around his nipple.

Jungkook rolls his eyes with an amused grin, “Mm, and what use will you do with this information?”

He starts pulling out close to his tip before drilling back into Jungkook which manages to push out grunts and choked breaths, “That whenever you’re extra bratty, I can pin you down and have you squealing under me.”

“Just like this?”

“Just like this.”

His hips start to snap as he stares deep into Jungkook’s love-drunk gaze. He places a hand on the small of the younger’s back, lifting him up higher above the comfortable linen. Jungkook has one hand supporting his weight and another holding Seokjin’s shoulder for dear life.

He arranges himself to press as close as he can against Jungkook before he pistons deep into Jungkook. Like this he sees Jungkook’s expression turn to glassy eyes, cheeks flushed and broken ah, ah, ah, falling out between his lips. His pace is relentless, treading atop dangerous territory and purposeful.

Jungkook’s lips wobble, “Yes, yes, oh god,” he whimpers.

He then suddenly pulls up Jungkook all the way, resting atop Seokjin, letting him tower him. The younger is momentarily surprised, looking down at Seokjin before leaning down to crash their lips once more. He feels Jungkook shift his legs properly while he places his hands against the globes of the younger’s ass, heart swelling as they fill his palm perfectly.

Jungkook drops down while Seokjin thrusts upwards and it creates a sensation like nothing either of them has experienced before. It’s powerful enough to push the air inside them out through guttural groans.

“Oh my god, I feel like I’m going to die,” he says as they continue to chase the end of their journey.

Jungkook places both of his hands against Jin’s cheeks, “I’ll allow you to die after you make me cum so hard that I’ll die along with you,” he giggles with a single tear gliding his face.

Jin grazes his lips to catch the fallen tear before moving to the younger’s lips, pressing the saltiness to be tasted. They move in sync like a waltz they’ve practised over and over again. It’s as if they’ve made love like this for centuries and mastered the art of the other’s body. He wonders if maybe their growing affections prepared them for this moment.

A thought that doesn’t get missed is if they’ve always been in love. Not from the time Jin first visited Jungkook’s house. Not from when Jungkook stood at his front door, breathless and shaking. Not from that time when he shyly gave Seokjin the fried chicken from his boss.

No, it must’ve been from the start.

Jungkook wraps his strong arms around his neck, resting their sweaty foreheads together as yelps, screams, whines and pleas are heard. Their hips speed up and the coiling deep within their guts is fiery.

“Hyung, oh god, I’m going to-,” Jungkook sobs out, face twisted in desperation to release.

“I got you, baby. I’ve always got you.”

Jungkook yells out loud as white covers their abs and atop Jin’s angered cock. The feeling of wetness and witnessing Jungkook’s reaction has him pushing the younger down one final time before he releases deep into him, hands clutching the younger’s waist to secure himself.

They fall together against the bed, slumber embracing them to give in. Their eyes look to one another, hooded, heavy and exhausted. The air around them is strong with the musk of after-sex.

Seokjin catches his breath before stumbling over to his bathroom, his mind foggy and delirious. He hears a small giggle from the bed as he staggers before coming back with a damp towel. He wipes Jungkook down before turning him on his chest and cleaning him out as best as he can to be gentle. Jungkook winces a few times but is compliant. Lastly, he wipes down himself before throwing the cloth to a random corner and then tackling Jungkook down for cuddles.

They’re in a mess of limbs as they stare at one another, Seokjin gently brushing the side of Jungkook’s hair. It’s soothing and comforting so it’s no surprise as the younger’s eyes softly flutter shut but a small smile remains. He watches Jungkook breath steadies and he feels sleep finally catching up to him.

His breath slows down and his hand stops to rest against Jungkook’s arm. His eyes feel heavier but that doesn’t stop him from leaning and kissing the younger’s smile. Whispering one final confession of the night before letting sleep take over.

“I love you.”

Seokjin’s eyes flutter open as he feels tiny paws pressing against him. He lifts his head up to be greeted by Kimi making biscuits against his sheets. He smiles and pulls her against his bare chest before turning to his phone on his bedside table to check the time.

“Good, you’re awake,” Jungkook says, walking in while adjusting his watch and heading for the dresser. “My classes start early today and then I’m off to work. I’ll be back by dinner, yeah?”

Seokjin sleepily nods while watching the younger pauses before walking over to him, sitting down on the bed, pushing his messy black locks back and leaning in for a kiss, “I made coffee and steamed egg for you. Eat it while it’s still hot.”

With that, he gives Kimi a little pat on the head before leaving. Seokjin leans back against the headboard, can’t stop the giddy smile from forming. He thinks about how lucky he is and how the events have turned towards their favour.

It’s been a month since the night they got together and Jungkook has been mostly sleeping over at Jin’s apartment. They haven’t declared a title or label their developed relationship but Jungkook isn’t shy to give and accept romantic pet names. Honestly, he doesn’t mind it and wants Jungkook to be the one to decide.

He winces as he gets out of bed and walks down to the kitchen, Kimi following at his side. There’s a paper note next to the coffee machine that Jungkook must’ve left before Jin woke up.

Sorry for being a little rough last night, babe o3o I’ll bring back chicken for dinner to make it up to you okay <3

Seokjin likes this Jungkook. This Jungkook that is sappy and sweet and likes to doodle on the little notes he leaves for Jin but maintains this “I hate everyone” demeanour with others. Makes him feel special.

He enjoys his breakfast while scrolling through his phone before getting ready for class. Ponders if he should wear one of Jungkook’s shirts that the younger has been leaving behind today. He agrees on wearing Jungkook’s grey sweater; yes, the sweater. He strips his bedding and throws them into the laundry before tidying up. Ensures Kimi’s food bowl has enough food and water before kissing her goodbye.

He’s walking up the pathway from the car park when he is stopped mid-way by a girl he doesn’t know. He smiles politely when she greets him. Seokjin notes the group of girls watching them from afar which he guesses must be her friends. He knows where this is leading to but can’t stop the confession from escaping her. She continues to tell him how handsome and caring he is and would like one chance.

“Oppa, please accept me and I will try hard to be the best girlfriend for you,” she says a little too loudly as multiple pairs of eyes turn to them.

He doesn’t like attention but needs to let her down slowly. “I’m sorry but I’m actually seeing someone right now.”

She gasps as her eyes begin to water but all he can do is bow to her and walk away. He halts to look back and calls to her, “Don’t ever change for a guy. Lovers are supposed to accept the pretty and ugly parts of us,” he advises, offering a small smile before resuming his path.

That’s when the whispers start. He can faintly hear the girl’s friends talk badly about him to comfort her. He brushes it off, he’s not the bad guy. You can’t force feelings especially if those feelings are already reserved for somebody else.

He’s mindless of his actions, mind fleeting to sweet memories he’s had with Jungkook. It takes him back to the morning after where Seokjin, in a way, was scared to open his eyes, fearful of vacancy on the other side of his bed. He remembers the relief of seeing a snoring Jungkook hugging the duvet he’s bunched up.

It was still early, the horizons just starting to brighten up and the morning sun peeking through to enter his room. He feels too warm and remembers the state they were when they went to bed. His nose scrunches at how icky he feels and sitting up, he feels the burn and sore muscles. Raising his arms up, he stretches and groans at the thought of washing up and doing laundry when all he wants is to go back to sleep.

He turns his head to see curious sleepy eyes look at him, half of his face hidden under the duvet, “We should wash up,” he says.

Jungkook stays silent, eyes squinting with mischief before pulling the sheets to fully cover himself. Seokjin’s amused and grabs the fabric which initiates a tug of war. This is definitely a new part of Jungkook, someone who is extra playful, cuddly and affectionate. He eventually gets Jungkook to go wash up first while he tidies up but the other pulls him under the spray of hot water before he gets a chance to escape.

The younger pushes him against the black tiled walls before pressing their lips together. That’s how he learned to not shower with Jungkook if he didn’t have at least an hour to spare.

When Seokjin woke up that morning, he wasn’t sure how to approach the shift in their dynamics but maybe he was just too afraid to confront reality. However, one look at Jungkook, softly smiling at him, eyes glittering with adoration. He thinks of the Jungkook everyone pictures at the mention of his name and the one who’s checking himself in the mirror as he proudly wears Seokjin’s favourite grey hoodie. They were the same person but Jin had the privilege of falling in love with both of them.

He walks with Jimin, Hoseok and Namjoon to the bathroom before heading out together for lunch. “I told you Professor Kang was chill. Trust me, you got a good supervisor for your thesis,” he tells Namjoon who agrees with him.

“As long as I didn’t get Prof Yoo,” he shivers, “they say you’re not his pupil if you don’t cry after every revision with him.”

Seokjin is checking his phone and wonders if he should call Jungkook up just because he misses him. They’ve gotten to that stage of cheesy selfies together so a shy smile appears as he looks at his lockscreen of them posing in front of a mirror while Jungkook is hugging him from behind.

He’s about to gush to his friends about Jungkook when two guys enter, instantly recognising them as Dohan’s friends. He doesn’t bother to acknowledge them but his friends instantly side-eye them. Jimin looks over at him and he just shakes his head, silently conveying they’re not worth it.

Hoseok is finishing up reapplying his sunscreen when one of them turns to the group with a snide look, “Ain’t that a little gay, Hoseok-ssi.”

Hoseok finishes patting the cream to his skin before looking at the other through the reflection with a fake smile, “Only you could be intimidated by a harmless little cream. I see toxic masculinity resumes to make you lot ugly as fuck,” he says as he drops his smile and rolls his eyes.

The other turns to look at Jin which instantly fills him with dread. He’s not in the mood to deal with stupidity today, “Heard you’re seeing someone?”

“That’s none of your business,” Jin flatly states, eyeing the others and gesturing to make their way out.

It wasn’t that Seokjin was backing down from confrontation. He simply knew better than to entertain those who just wanted to press his buttons and agitate him. He would rather save his breath and energy for something actually worthwhile.

However, the idiot must’ve felt daring.

They were midway to exiting when they heard, “They say it’s a pretty model but I don’t believe it. I’m reckoning it’s that fag that’s obsessed with Dohan.”

Seokjin slowly turns his head back with anger bubbling at the seams. They could yap about him and his rumours all day long for all he cared. But it’s a mistake made to tread and talk down someone Jin cared for.

“You better shut it,” Namjoon warns, knowing well where this was headed.

The two guys snickers at that, “Or what?” he taunts, turning to look at Jin once more, “never took you, the Kim Seokjin, as someone who’s into boys,” he says, slowly walking over to stop right in front of him, leaning in close, “tell me, at least you’re the man in the relationship that does the fucking because trust me, it’s hot news if you let Jeon Jungkook take you up the ass-”

Seokjin wouldn’t hear any more before gripping the collar of the guy’s shirt, shoving him against a closed cubicle door, hard enough to make a grunt of pain emit from the other, “You say his name one more time and I swear to god, I’ll break your face.”

He feels an arm on his shoulder, “Come on, hyung. He just wants a reaction from you. You’re better than this,” Jimin says trying to calm the situation before it gets too out of hand.

His eyes feel like it’s burning with a sensation that words such as anger and rage doesn’t quite seem to fit. It takes him a lot of strength to restrain himself and instead throws him down to the tiled floors.

I need him, he thinks of a pretty boy with long, dark hair and soft, pink lips. Wants Jungkook to pull him into a hug and comb his fingers through his hair comfortingly. It would be quiet, a silent understanding. His mind would be racing with questions on how unfair it was to love someone the world didn’t give a chance to understand but one look at his lover and it’ll dissipate into steam and then nothingness.

“Don’t you see? He’s ruining you. Your status, your reputation, it’s going down the drain all the way to the bottom where that filth is. Imagine when everyone finds out- you’ll be nothing. You’ll be ridiculed and he’ll be tormented for dragging you to his level,” he states menacingly, glaring towards Seokjin who’s a hot minute away from getting blood on his knuckles but Jimin beats him to it.

He watches as Jimin lifts his leg up to press his shoe against the asshole’s forehead, “Go ahead, talk badly about my friends; I dare you, fucker. Because I promise if you do, I’ll shove this very expensive Chelsea boot so far up your ass since you’re so fucking curious about it.”

Jimin leans his shoe harder pushing the guy away with a grunt before turning to guide Seokjin out of that messy situation. They resume going for lunch together but it’s quiet and the atmosphere is tense. He can’t stop thinking about Jungkook, worrying over him. Wonders if they dare to test him, nothing will stop them from going after the younger.

“Hyung,” Hoseok calls out from across the table, offering a comforting smile, “it’s going to be fine.”

Seokjin forces a small reassuring smile to his friends, feeling bad for ruining their lunch, “Thanks, really, I mean it. What you guys did for me back there- I’m grateful.”

“Gotta give props to Jimin though, he really was the cherry on top,” Namjoon jokes before they all start chiming in, expressing their awe.

“No lie, I was so scared. Who knew our cute Jiminie could also be so threatening!” Hoseok says, exaggerating how surprised he was.

Jimin turns to Seokjin beside him, resting a hand on him, “Nobody messes with my friends and that includes their cute boyfriends too.”

He gets shy at the title and feels his face burn along with his ears. They joked around and soon the tension had vanished into thin air. Honestly, Seokjin was proud of his friends and knew that from the start to the end, they would always be there for him. They were fearless to stand in the eye of a hurricane to protect each other and that was what made their bond grounded and strong.

That’s what he wants; to stem within his relationship with Jungkook: strength to prevail all. He desires to open Jungkook’s chest and understand his pain. He wants the younger to pull apart his limbs and uncover the Seokjin he never shows others. He wants them to tangle, intertwine and never let go. He expects them to surrender completely to the other.

He doesn’t expect to kick in his passcode and enter his living room to see Jungkook stopping midway of putting Kimi in her carrier. Jungkook’s eyes are large and fearful. He looks terrified to see Seokjin, why?

“I thought you were at work,” he says, dropping his hand to his side and pocketing his phone.

Jungkook closes the carrier and rises to his feet, “I thought you were in class.”

“Class got cancelled,” he states, trying to analyse the situation, a million possibilities rushing through his mind. “Jungkook-ah,” he starts, walking closer to the younger with worry across his face, “what’s going on?”

He reaches out for the younger but Jungkook turns towards the bedroom instead- avoiding his touch. Seokjin tails him, confused, but one look towards the bed where a full bag at its foot has sirens alarming his insides.

“Jungkook-ah, what are you doing-”

“What do you want from me?” Jungkook asks as he turns to face Seokjin.

Seokjin searches his lonely eyes, “I-I don’t understand what you mean,” he stutters, unsure of the ache in his chest as he reaches out for his lover but just like before Jungkook turns away from him.

The younger has his arms crossed facing the bedroom’s large paned windows that overlook a beautiful view of the city skyline. The window that has shown them the many sunrises and sunsets that they have gone through. It has accompanied them through their pillow fights, pulling one another out of bed for class and even witnesses their love bloom.

Jungkook turns to look back, his face was cold but so full of pain. “I was there,” he says quietly like a whisper, “in the toilet. I heard it all, hyung.”

Seokjin watches the younger’s lips wobble before he turns back to the window. It dawns on him then and he simply couldn’t believe it. When the four of them entered the toilet, the middle door, oh god, the door he slammed the dipshit against- was occupied.

He looks up at the younger who looks smaller, more fragile, further away when he was only a few steps from him. Jin slowly approaches Jungkook and is unsure of what to say. Knows now that all that was said must have gone through to his head and allowed intrusive thoughts to speak louder than his own voice.

It seems like every time he reaches out for the other, Jungkook vanishes into thin air because that’s all he catches when he turns to look at Jin. “I have to leave,” he states before pushing past Seokjin to retrieve his bag.

“Wait- Jungkook, please, stop,” he pleas as he chases after him.

“You heard him!” Jungkook shouts, angry tears filling his eyes and threatening to drop. This is the first time he has ever heard Jungkook raise his voice. It isn’t loud like when they play video games and he’s cheering from winning. It isn’t loud like when he screams for Seokjin to go faster and harder. It’s shrill; terrified, heartbroken and in grief.

“Me and you- it’s a joke. We,” he points towards himself and Jin, “should’ve never happened. I warned you from the start. I told you!” he pushes against Seokjin in frustration but he doesn’t move an inch, “I-I was happy being on my own and then you happened.”

“So you’re putting this on me now?” Seokjin retorts, impatient and hurt.

“You knew what people were saying on campus but y-you wanted to make a fucking point. See if you can take a chance at the university’s loser, heck, maybe that was the plan all along! Fuck!” he curses, “You’re fucking Kim Seokjin- you’re loved and adored! Make it make sense why a guy like you would be with a guy like me?!”

He takes a step back, baffled at the accusation, “How could you say that?” Seokjin is hush with his words, doesn’t even care that his cheeks are wet and his chest feels heavy and tight. “After everything- everything!” he shouts; voice cracking like a piece of his heart shattering, “You want to succumb to what everyone thinks because it’s easier that way. Let them trample you because you feel like you deserve it. You’re so fixed on it that it’s made you scared at the idea that someone actually wants to be with you!”

Jungkook stares at him, frown containing sobs and red-rimmed eyes detaining tears to fall. Without noticing, Jungkook has become his earth, heaven and hell. How would he go on with his days without him? How would he survive the heartbreak?

The younger turns and retrieves Kimi’s carrier and Seokjin feels utterly helpless at this point. All hope is leaving him as all he can do is simply watch. With every step Jungkook takes, it’s another stab to his heart. He’s willing to sacrifice the world for Jungkook to stay.

However, as his lover walks closer to the door, needless to say, he needed Jungkook to know one thing if this was the end.

“You know I love you.”

Jungkook’s eyes were exactly the same ones from when they first met. The ones that he fell deepest for. The ones that dropped a single tear before he left.

“I don’t believe you.”

“What do we do? He’s already missed a week of class.”

“Gosh, has he eaten anything today? Weren’t you in charge of his meals today?”

“No? I thought it was you.”

“Come on, the man’s gone through a lot. Can’t we at least make sure to have meals ready for him?”

Seokjin can’t take it anymore as he sits up to rest on his elbow to turn towards the bedroom door, “you guys aren’t slick.”

His five friends exchange looks as they’re squished through the doorway, expression worried and cautious. They fall in and find a spot around him, invading his bed and sitting on the floor. He feels Hoseok crawl under the sheets to hug him from behind while Taehyung lays close to the edge of the bed, taking his arm to rest in the younger’s curly hair.

“Hyung, we’re just worried,” Namjoon pipes in quietly from the floor.

“You’ve been missing a lot of your classes, you haven’t been taking care of yourself and not going to lie, you look like shit right now,” Yoongi bluntly says, he’s always been one to not sugar coat.

He peers down towards Taehyung with a pout, “does hyung really look that bad?”

“Nonsense, you’re always handsome. You just don’t look your best right now and that’s okay,” Taehyung reassures with a smile before he receives good boy pats.

“Hyungie, it sucks what happened between you and Jung-” Jimin starts before being nudged in the rib by Namjoon, “him, but you shouldn’t forget to care for yourself as well. You need to get back up on your feet, go shower, do your hair- you need to live again.”

“He’s right,” Hoseok says while combing his fingers through Jin’s greasy hair, “it’ll take time and a lot of strength to get through it but we’ll be here. We’ll always be here to pick you up but we need you to try as well.”

He turns to lay flat on his back, Hoseok and Taehyung letting him do so before latching back on him. He starts to feel his eyes grow wet because he truly has the best-est friends in the world, “I don’t deserve you guys, really,” he says with a smile but tears are rolling down to his pillow.

“Aww,” they all say simultaneously before tackling the bed and squeezing in to find a spot to hug and comfort him. He truly does appreciate them so much.

A small chuckle escapes him at their affections, “I really want to move on but how could I get over someone like him? He took my heart along with him when he left. Now it just feels like a vacant space in my chest.”

Yoongi lifts his head up, smiling brightly which was a rare sight to see. He reaches towards his chest, pinching nothing before pressing against Jin’s chest. Seokjin looks at him confused, “There, you can have a bit of my heart for now.”

“Ooh, mine too!” Namjoon cheerfully joins in.

And soon all his friends do the same, pressing their fingers to his chest, “See, hyung, now you have a temporary heart. So, whenever you’re ready, maybe you can ask him to give yours back, yeah?”

That night they all decide to sleepover. They push Seokjin to finally take a shower while worrisome crashes can be heard coming from the kitchen. However, they must’ve cleaned up fast since his kitchen is spotless when he finally emerges. They eat, laugh, drink and crash by 3 am.

Seokjin fondly looks over at Taehyung and Yoongi sleeping snugly on the sofa while Namjoon has spread a futon for two on the floor for himself only. He switches off the lights before going towards his bedroom which’s conquered by very drunk Hoseok and Jimin sprawled sideways.

There’s no room for him so he retreats to the study room but is reluctant to step inside for reasons. He releases a deep sigh and gives in, closing the door behind him to flick the lights on and reveal what he had been avoiding.

Despite Jungkook packing his things when he left, he forgot many of his belongings. In a flurry of being upset, Jin sought out each of Jungkook’s things and left it in his study to be forgotten. Never knew when he would dare to open it once more but, here he was, one week later.

He arranged Jungkook’s things to one corner that ranged from sweaters, hoodies, his toothbrush, his boxers and even his favourite mug. He set up the sofa bed with an extra duvet and pillow before dimming the lights. Seokjin turned on his side and couldn’t help himself but stare at his ex-lover’s belongings with a sense of yearning.

His friends wouldn’t know.

He stripped his clothes off, taking a black hoodie and boxer brief to match before settling once more on his makeshift bed for the night. Seokjin thought it was strange for Jungkook to leave this particular hoodie; it was his favourite. He pulled the collar higher above his nose and inhaled deeply, still being able to faintly smell Jungkook. It felt warm as if Jungkook was hugging him like before.

He wonders- just a thought, that maybe, just maybe.

He got up once more, dashing towards his wardrobe to look through it, something missing, anything. Mayhap he was desperate to know that maybe he meant something more towards Jungkook. At that point, he was simply pouring the content of his wardrobe all over the floor, dreading the clean-up.

But then he sees it, his sports attire section, an empty odd space at the back of the drawer makes him slump back with ease resting in his chest. His grey hoodie was missing. The same grey hoodie he gave Jungkook to wear when they first spoke to one another after the car park incident. The grey hoodie Jungkook wore the morning after. The grey hoodie that has now become Jungkook’s piece of Seokjin.

He starts to hiccup as he brings his knees closer to his chest and begins to let the tears pour out. He misses him so much but in a way he’s glad. Glad that through the hurt Jungkook felt that day, he still knew he needed a piece of Seokjin to go on despite his plan to leave him. Glad to imagine that the grey hoodie gives Jungkook comfort that Jin had never noticed until it was too late.

Glad to envision that maybe Jungkook was curled in bed, wearing his grey hoodie, have it warm him throughout the night while the younger’s black hoodie comforted Seokjin.

Although separated, they were still there for one another.

He had envisioned how meeting Jungkook for the first after the younger left him would play out. It wouldn’t necessarily be the younger jumping into his arms and reconciling. This wasn’t a fairytale, this was reality, and reality was harsh.

His steps were slowed as the one he desired came into view. He halted; one foot on the next step of the stoned stairway and the other at the bottom. The scene was unforgivingly cruel.

Seokjin could see Jungkook past the numbered people surrounding him to watch the commotion. Anyone would come out to have a peek whenever drama occurred, enjoyed it, especially when it was tragic. Yet, no one came forth to help him. Typical.

He looks from afar, his heartstring tugging at the seams at the sight of Jungkook. His head was hanging low, raven hair shielding his expression as he stood frozen and took the stabbing insults. He could only watch as his belongings were thrown to the curb on such a cold spring night. No one should ever have to go through what Jungkook had to.

He then watches Jungkook’s arm raise to wrap around his body, gripping the grey hoodie he wore to stay warm. Jin’s grey hoodie.

This was not how they should’ve met.

It had been two weeks since he finally decided to get out of the house and attend his university classes. He may have had a twinge of fear to see Jungkook, afraid he would break down crying, begging for the younger in front of everyone. What he hadn’t taken into account was how scarier it would be to not see Jungkook- at all.

Seokjin nor the others spotted Jungkook on campus; he would wait outside the chicken shop yet the younger never showed up for his shifts. He didn’t understand fear until he registered that Jungkook’s whereabouts were unknown.

His friends had told him that Jungkook needed space as well, that he must be dealing with it equally as bad as Jin. That didn’t make him feel any better because although he had his friends by his side, Jungkook didn’t have anybody besides Kimi. Seokjin and Kimi- they were his only family.

“Why do you want to see him? Not trying to sound rude, hyung, but he did break your heart,” Namjoon queried, mouth full of rice.

Seokjin shrugged, looking down at his plate, fiddling the vegetables with his chopsticks, “I wouldn’t be feeling this way if I could at least see him from afar. I don’t know if he’s sleeping well and if he’s eating enough or not. It’s like he’s just- gone.”

Taehyung placed a spring roll on Jin’s plate before taking one for himself, “he’s a big boy, hyung. I’m sure he’s fine. We’ll keep a lookout for him if that will ease you a bit.”

He gives in and decides that maybe Jungkook just doesn’t want to be found. Wants to begin again wherever that is. To resume his life prior to Seokjin.

It bothers him day and night but he tries to carry on with his life. He would occupy his time by studying or getting drunk by himself. His friends had tried to bring him out multiple times but he simply wasn’t interested anymore. He would simply stare at the caller ID of his friends, letting it ring as he took sips of his alcohol choice of the night.

Nighttime was hard. He had grown accustomed to studying late, forgetting the time only for Jungkook to appear, shy smiles and teasing actions before pulling Seokjin to the bedroom. However, now, his apartment never seemed quieter.

There was no more soft singing coming from the bathroom in the morning anymore. Making dinner was quiet, absent of Jungkook watching the 7 pm news and relaying it with his ‘hot news anchor’ voice. The bed felt colder every time the sun rose up, a heart-breaking twinge occurring the moment he opened his eyes thinking it was all a bad dream.

Please, just let it be a nightmare.

He thanked the waitress for showing him the private dining room he and his friends booked for dinner. Taehyung insisted they eat there, noting into the group chat that the traditional interior and delicious food would lure Seokjin out of his drunk night routine which proved to be a success.

“Hey, you made it,” Hoseok greeted, patting the seat mat beside him for Seokjin to take, “We already ordered the main course sets but told them to bring it out when everyone arrives. They just brought out the tea, let me pour for you, hyung.”

Seokjin watched in silence as Hoseok poured the tea, his eyes snapping to across the table where he felt a deep stare from. Jimin jumped in surprise before melting into a comforting smile, “You’re doing good, hyung?”

He softly nodded, before nervously giving the tea a sip, “I’m doing good. Not my best but it’ll be okay,”

The food arrived and they began to dig in. Chattering with one another and taking photos for memories. Seokjin tried to enjoy his time, he appreciated being surrounded by his friends. Well, it beats getting drunk by himself.

Namjoon had suggested going clubbing a few days prior, explaining that Jin needed to party, get wasted and maybe get to know new people. He understood that his friends were hinting for Seokjin to just find a rebound to replace the Jungkook-shaped hole in his heart; but, how could he?

“This was such a good break from that damn thesis,” Namjoon exclaimed while stretching his arms out before suddenly turning to Hoseok, “How come you’re so chill? I’ve never not once heard you complain about it and I’m the honour student,” he deadpanned.

The other shrugged with a silly giggle, “I’m trying to take it easy after seeing Yoongi-hyung’s meltdown last year. Midway of the year he went and threw a copy of his draft from the rooftop of the Arts department.”

“It was perfect but that asshat, Prof Chen, said I needed to add more subtopics and I was like- how?!” Yoongi defended himself, tipping the teacup back as if it was a shot glass which made everyone laugh.

Through the laughter and banter, suddenly multiple chimes of notification flooding in filling the room. Their usual rule was to never use their phones when they were hanging out unless it was to take pictures and if it was an emergency. However, it wasn’t just one but all of their phones.

Jimin and Taehyung pulled their phones out to check while Seokjin glazed through his selections from the seafood platter. He thought it must be some gossip spreading ablaze but as usual, he was never too bothered about it before and he isn’t going to start now.

He took a small bite of the side dish, eyes turning to curiously look at Jimin and Taehyung from across the table. They were silent, paled up but their eyes were filled with something akin to fear.

Just then Taehyung looked up at him with a saddened expression, “Hyung…”

That was when everyone rushed to check their phone as so too Seokjin. The way the younger look at him instantly made him feel like a weight dropping in his gut. His hands felt jittery as his mind raced with every possible worst-case scenario. He was hoping that none of them could be true but oh how wrong he was to undermine the cruelty that reality could bring.

So that's why he was here. He was watching the man who owned his entire existence, trying to keep himself together as he witnessed his belongings crashing and thrown to the dirty, damp ground. Seokjin pushed forward through the growing crowd who simply recorded the scene to humour over later.

“2 years, 2 years I let scum like you live in my house. I’ll have to bleach the place, burn it down to rid it of your evil!” the man shouted as he threw a handful of clothes in front of Jungkook.

Seokjin scanned the crowd for a face that he would only see in blood red. Dohan- he did this. The bastard took it too far this time.

He didn’t know how he felt when he checked his phone to see everyone circulating a video of Dohan parading in front of a miserable Jungkook as his landlord screamed at him. Dohan had outed him to his very homophobic landlord about everything he knew including his past as an escort.

From the video, Dohan was here but must’ve left already. Good riddance, he would’ve been arrested for what he would do to that asshole. It wasn’t just for Jungkook, but for anyone who Dohan had tormented. He deserved it.

Although he was steaming with anger, one look at Jungkook and all those dark thoughts floated to nothing but steam. Now, Jungkook was the only thing that mattered.

He didn’t know how he got here. One moment he was rushing out of the restaurant, heart thrumming like a madman in his chest. The next he was pressing a little too hard on the gas pedal, racing down the street yet slower than the speed of his intrusive thoughts.

Then he was here. He was here to stand beside Jungkook, intertwining his fingers through the younger’s so naturally, it was as if the younger knew he was there all along. Seokjin was here for Jungkook as he picked up Kimi’s carrier whom curled in weariness and fear. He was there to look around at the judgemental stares but only focused on one who truly mattered.

And together, they were gone.

He softly knocked against the door to his study which has become a makeshift room for Jungkook. He heard no response and opened the door slightly to see the younger sleeping, face pressed against Kimi’s soft, black fur. Seokjin smiled at how innocent it looked and entered the room, sitting down by the sofa bed before carding his fingers through Jungkook’s hair.

Seokjin brought them home that night. Jungkook didn’t say a word. He didn’t say anything as Seokjin led him to the bathroom, ran him a warm bath and stripped him of his clothes. He didn’t say a word as Seokjin placed a hot bowl of ramen for him to eat while he set up the study for Jungkook. He didn’t say a word when Jin laid him down on the sofa bed and left him to be.

It was clear, Jungkook needed his space before he was ready.

The next day, his friends came over while carrying multiple boxes. They had gone to pick up Jungkook’s things, well salvage whatever wasn’t ruined really. Yoongi had fun flipping and cursing the landlord off. Jungkook stayed in his room but they knew he appreciated their kindness.

When Jungkook finally talked to him it wasn’t extravagant, not a show of immense gratitude. It was simple, just like Jungkook. Seokjin had returned home after a gym session and was sweaty and couldn’t wait to jump into the shower. Jungkook existed around him but never reached out for him. Jin was patient and understanding, he knew only time could heal oneself.

He had peeled off his sweaty tank before feeling arms wrap around his waist from behind. They stayed silent, Jin was tensed only to melt in the arms of his lover. He looked down at the strong arms around him before intertwining them.

“Thank you,” it was small, timid, fearful but there.

That night Seokjin would always remember the way he turned and felt the embrace of the other. He would remember the cringe he felt, remembering his sweaty state. But he would also remember the small smile Jungkook gave him before leaning in to give him a small peck, ushering to be quick with his shower.

He’ll always recall that night where they laid in the dark on Seokjin’s bed, talking in hush as if the world was trying to listen in. Jungkook told him about how he returned to Busan to visit his parents once more. He needed to escape Seoul, to get away from everything that reminded him of his painful past and Seokjin. Talked about how scared he was when his dad answered the door, expecting to be yelled at but was instead pulled into a tight hug.

“You told them about me?” he asked.

“Of course, I did. Before I got kicked out, dad said nobody would love me so when I came back, I wanted to tell him that he was wrong,” Jungkook said before peering up to his face, “Someone back in Seoul did love me.”

He pursed his lips, “You said you didn’t believe me.”

“I’ve always believed it. I was just in denial that anyone would love me but…” Jungkook leaned up closer to his face, eyes glancing from Jin’s eyes to his lips, “now I know better. Now I know that I love you too,” he ended before pressing their lips together.

Once he got back, he wanted to live the life he deserved, not the pitiful one he had before Seokjin. He wanted to be a better version of himself before approaching Seokjin. He insisted that Jin deserved that much for all the shit Jungkook put him through.

So when Dohan and his friends came to the chicken shop to torment him as usual, Jungkook for the first time, stood up to him. He was determined to not let Dohan hurt him any longer and stood his ground despite feeling himself shake. He felt proud of himself but it was short-lived when he came back home to his landlord screaming to his face about how disgusting he was just for being gay.

“I’m so proud of you,” Jin said while peppering kisses to Jungkook’s bare shoulders and chest.

“Even after all that happened?” Jungkook looked away with a weary expression.

Seokjin placed his hand under Jungkook’s chin, guiding it to look at him, “Even after going through hell,” he guided their hands on top of the younger’s heart; they both felt it drum, “this little fighter here is still pounding with vigour.”

A wide smile spread to Jungkook’s face before he cupped Jin’s face to pull down and smash their lips together.

This feels like home.

“Hey baby,” Jin calls out, watching Jungkook stir before looking around confusingly, “Jimin and Taehyung are here.”

“O-oh,” the younger says, nodding while sitting up.

“Jeez, I told you to put away your things, not take a nap with Kimi, sheesh,” he playfully scolds, getting up to see the progress Jungkook’s made. He looks over it before rearranging here and there to his liking.

“Mm, Kimi was sleeping and so I just decided to join her,” he replies with a sleepy giggle.

Seokjin turns to look at his dishevelled boyfriend who is unimaginably stunning even after just waking up, “What are you plotting with dumb and dumber anyways?” he squints with suspicion.

“I have a surprise for you.”

And oh boy, was it a surprise. Jungkook had finally returned and called out for him. He placed down his hairdryer, leaving his damp hair to air-dry instead. He halted in surprise the moment he spotted his lover before eyeing the two who looked proud and giddy. “I leave my boyfriend with you two for three hours and he comes back to me blonde,” he deadpans.

Jungkook, of course, he looked gorgeous. It looked great on him. He approached the younger to check it out closer, brushing his fingers through the soft locks.

“You don’t like it?”

He gave a funny look to Jungkook, “Of course I like it, babe. You look ten times hotter now though.”

Jungkook cards his fingers through his hair, “This is the new and improved Jungkook 2.0 so I wanted to change up my appearance as well. I’ll probably get gawked at but as long as hyung and I like it, everyone else doesn’t matter.”

Seokjin could simply look at his other half proudly, loved this Jungkook that was confident, brave and wanted to take his life back. He wasn’t changing for Jin or anyone else; he was doing it for himself. He was tweaking and improving himself day by day while Jin watched from the sidelines, encouraging him to go on.

After Taehyung and Jimin had left, Seokjin plopped onto the sofa where Kimi instantly pounced on him, demanding for attention. Jungkook joined him after washing up the dishes from dinner with a tired sigh. Sometimes he couldn’t believe how they got here- warm, together and in love.

Jungkook lightly pushed Kimi off his lap before replacing it with his head as they watch the TV, “Your last paper is tomorrow, right?”

The younger nods with eyes closed, attempting to drift to sleep. A small smile crept up to his lips as Jin twirls small strands of his hair soothingly, “Should we celebrate tomorrow?”

“Is there something you wish for?”

“Mm…kind of want you to cook me something good and then have sexy time all night long,” he replies triumphantly.

Seokjin flicks the younger’s forehead, “Ace your paper and maybe I’ll let you have your way with me. How’s that sound?”

It sounded great; it really did. He was anticipating since the moment he woke up to Jungkook pressing butterfly kisses all over his face before bringing Kimi to lick Jin’s nose with her tuna breath. He was excited as he deeply kissed the younger good luck before letting him leave the apartment early.

“Come on, Hoseok. I’m a taken man now so I have to put him over you lot,” he jokes, snickering even if Hoseok couldn’t see him.

The younger groans through the phone, “I get it, hyung. Your man’s dick is more important than us, I can respect that,” he laughs, “You owe us all brunch this weekend then! That’s what you get for breaking our post-finals tradition.”

“Yeah, yeah, you guys can go crazy with the bill. It’ll be worth it anyway,” he chuckles to which Hoseok emphasises his cringe. Seokjin is about to torment him further before he stops in his tracks, smile falling instantly.

“Hyung?” he faintly hears, but it's muffled. It’s like his ears are stuffed with cotton balls and his vision is turning red by the second. He could feel the intense drumming sensation from his chest, adrenaline kicking in with acceleration. A face came into his view, a snarky smirk across his lips with the intention to menace so clear.

Park Dohan.

He stopped a few steps away from Seokjin, Seri attached to his arm with an annoyed expression, “Well, well, isn’t it the great Kim Seokjin,” he states with a taunting tone, “Heard you came to rescue that pathetic loser. You should’ve left him to rot in the streets where he belongs.”

“He’d survive through whoring around though,” one of his posse chimes in as the others laugh at his remark.

Seokjin stays silent, calculating and resisting the urge to pin Dohan down and break his face. He was never one for violence but this was an exception. Dohan needed to be put into place, to understand that there was no hierarchy where he sat atop the food chain. He needed to be humbled.

Dohan clicks his tongue with annoyance at his lack of response. Seokjin smirks at how sad the asshole must be to ruse and fail at making him lose his temper, “What’s wrong, hmm? Too much of a sissy to talk back to me? Man…you really do turn into a girl the moment you let someone take you up your hole.”

“You would know, wouldn’t you?”

The other glances at him with confusion, “What are you talking about?”

“Isn’t it a little too much of you to continue playing this narrative to stay hidden?” Seokjin takes one step forward to come intimidatingly closer to Dohan who looks nervous. He gives Seri a glance over before turning back, “Isn’t it a little mean of you to stay with her despite wanting something else- somebody else.”

“Oppa, what does he mean by that?” Seri asks, letting go of his arm and looking up at her boyfriend with wariness.

“Nothing, he’s talking nonsense,” Dohan tries.

“Am I?” he pushes.

“You better watch your mouth.”

Jin chuckles, “Or what? You’re going to spread a rumour to validate beating me up too?” he rolls his eyes deciding that Dohan wasn’t worth it, “You keep calling him pathetic when I’m standing in front of you, knowing everything from that night- I pity you.”

“That fag was the one who started the rumours,” one defends.

“Did he?” Dohan isn’t able to meet his eyes, he’s feeling ashamed. Seokjin pushes past him and the others but stops to look back, “You’ve wronged him so much, he didn’t deserve any of it. He went through hell that day and it will stick with him for who knows how long- maybe forever. All because under your mean bully demeanour- you’re a scared little boy.”

“No I’m not,” Dohan tries once more although there’s a broken expression he’s trying hard to contain.

Seokjin had the power, the upper hand against Dohan. His girlfriend and friends were surrounding him, he could’ve exposed him- outed him as he did with Jungkook. Give him a taste of his own medicine. It would be easy; the news would spread like an ablaze wildfire. He would be left alone with no one by his side.

However, if he did it, he would be no less like Dohan and Seokjin would never bring himself to be on the same level as him. He was better than that.

“I hope you find peace within yourself one day,” Jin says before turning to resume his path, leaving the group.

Despite everything they’ve been through, he hoped for the best for Dohan. Although he himself never experienced the struggle of coming out, he knew everyone had different challenges. However, what he did know for sure was that being out and accepting yourself was better than staying closeted and allowing the suppression to fester deep within.

At the end of the day, people grow. They either grow and blossom like Jungkook or become lengthy vines with no direction in life. There were no words to express how proud he was of Jungkook, for the man he’s become. To have gone through hardship, pain yet able to stand back up on his feet and run towards better days.

He opens the doors to the university’s café where he had planned to have lunch with his friends and Jungkook. Jungkook was faced away from him but he had grown all too familiar with the broadness of the younger’s back. The back he’s had the pleasure to leave soft kisses and scratch marks on. The back he’d press his face into when he woke up and the one he knew he could lean on.

“Heard that’s the one Seokjin-oppa is going out with,” a girl beside him mutters to her friends around the table without noticing him standing there.

“Him? Didn’t know he swung that way. Isn’t that Jeon Jungkook?” another says.

Another tsks, “I know right? He could do so much better. But I’ve never seen them together, maybe it’s just a rumour?”

God how he hated that word.

So he decides to make a point.

He looks back to the table Jungkook sat with Hoseok and Yoongi. He eyes the seat beside the younger, knowing it’s reserved for him. Bursts of warmth envelopes him with each stride he takes closer to home. Once he sits down, he faces the younger, taking his hand which instantly snatches Jungkook’s attention from his study notes.

The other blushes at the suddenness, they’ve never been openly affectionate, not even in front of their friends. “Hyung,” he eyes him, searching for reason.

“You love me?”

A small, shy smile spreads across Jungkook’s pretty, pink lips. He glances around before leaning in closer, “You know I do. I love you,” he says in hush for only Seokjin to hear.

With that clarification, Seokjin wraps his arms around the younger’s neck before the other gets the chance to protest. He leans in and captures Jungkook’s lips in a searing burst of affection, hearing faint gasps and loud cheers around them. He wants the world to witness his infatuation for Jungkook.

The younger is shocked at first but instantly melts between his plush, warm lips. He can feel his heart bleed open for his lover. Mesmerises in the feeling of his head spinning a love-drunk high.

Once they slowly pull away, Jin smiles wide, eyes dripping with content and adoration for the younger. He forgets the world, ignores his friends and only focuses towards the one that has enamoured his mind, body and soul.

“I love you too.”