Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The air was thick with unfallen rain, night sky weighted by a looming gray. The wind persisted at Sooyun’s back, whistling through the treetops and shaking the branches above, any sharp or sudden noise startling the child in her arms. A twig cracked below, and Sooyun stumbled as she advanced. Jimin whimpered, and Sooyun pulled him tighter to her chest, tucking his head under her chin before glancing around warily.

She was in completely unknown territory by this point, alone and exposed to the wilderness around her. Jimin clung tightly to her chest, surprisingly quiet aside from his occasional noise of fear. Her young son seemed to be in a state of shock for hours now, eyes shut tight and body curled into his mother’s warmth. Sooyun wished she had grabbed more furs to wrap her boy in, but she had rushed out too quickly to think of the September chill.

At least the howling died off the day prior. Either they were far enough out of hearing range, or the search parties had allowed the trail to run cold, too cautious even in groups to venture out into wild land and prospective territories.

A shiver wracked Jimin's small frame and Sooyun hesitated mid-step, leaning into the trunk of a swaying tree. She rubbed at his back, knowing she would soon be too weak to carry him further. “It’s okay. baby,” she whispered shakily. “We’ll find somewhere soon. Eomma will make it better.”

“’S cold,” Jimin mumbled, nose pressed to Sooyun’s throat.

“I know,” she said helplessly. “I know.”

Sooyun pushed herself onward, trying hard to ignore the ache in her legs and the sting in her lungs. She wasn’t sure how many packs lived this far north, or if any were even welcoming to lone wolves. She could only hope that foreign wolves would harbor compassion toward an omega and her pup, especially with Jimin whimpering in her grasp.

Sooyun’s run slowed to a fast walk, pain shooting up her ankle from some injury she sustained hours back. Just another hour, she told herself. They’d find shelter in that time. She had to hold out hope.

It only took another ten minutes for Sooyun to pick up on a new pack’s scent, however. It was weak enough for her to know she wasn’t very close to their homes, but she could follow the strengthening trail to a patrol group or even the main pack itself. Sooyun momentarily shook the creeping fear of hostility out of her mind, advancing farther into the territory.

She moved toward the source of the scent, slowing when it was strong enough to be suffocating. She noticed a break in the trees not far off, surely a clearing with the wolves’ settlement. Sooyun peered through the tree line, spotting cabins mere yards away, larger buildings in the distance. Lamp-lights flickered in windows, long grass swayed with the wind, a sea of green broken by stone paths winding from the center of the settlement to the houses.

A howl split the air behind Sooyun, some distance back in the trees. A patrol had picked up on her foreign scent. Jimin released a wail and Sooyun ducked low, heart thumping madly beneath her ribs.

Sooyun was too distracted by the commotion back in the woods to catch the approaching scent, even more startled when a gasp reached her ears. Sooyun’s grip on Jimin tightened, and she staggered back a step, posture stiff with tension.

A woman and her young son halted on the path nearest them, the boy clutching her leg, face peeking out at them cautiously. Sooyun felt guilt from scaring him; he didn't look that much older than Jimin.

The woman, however, set Sooyun on edge. Her scent very clearly announced her as an alpha.

The alpha gathered her wits before Sooyun, holding out her hands in careful surrender. “Is he hurt?” She asked quietly, nodding toward Jimin. Sooyun had forgotten about the dried blood soaking his pants, the red stain most likely rubbing off on Sooyun's hands, as well.

“N-no,” Sooyun said, voice hoarse. “But he is cold. Please, if...”

She stopped, gritted her teeth, and glanced around, knowing other pack members would be crowding the area in search of the intruder soon enough.

The woman hesitated, making a decision. “We can help him. Both of you.”

Sooyun’s stance eased slightly.

“You look tired. I can carry him to the infirmary for you?” She offered.

Sooyun bit her lip. “Thank you, but I’ll hold him.”

“I understand,” she said slowly. She shifted to look down at her son, the boy wide-eyed as he stared up at Jimin’s shivering form. “Yoongi, go to Alpha Sung’s cabin and tell her we have a visitor.”

Yoongi’s attention strayed from Jimin only briefly as he met his mother’s gaze. “Okay,” he said, pulling away and breaking into a run toward the cabins farther back.

“Come with me,” the alpha said kindly, gesturing them along, leading Sooyun deeper into the territory. “Healer Park should still be in the infirmary. We’ve had quite a few sniffley pups this week. I think there’s a bug going around.”

Sooyun took in the settlement as they walked. She wasn’t oblivious to the many worried glances the alpha fixed on Jimin.

“What’s his name?” She asked lightly, maybe trying to distract Sooyun from her evident distress.

Jimin nuzzled into Sooyun’s neck; she rubbed his back soothingly. “Jimin.”

“Oh, what a pretty name,” she sighed. “My Yoongi is six. How old is Jimin?”

“H-he’ll be four next month.”

The alpha pouted sympathetically. “They grow up too fast. I'm almost tempted to have another.”

Sooyun smiled weakly.

“I’m Min Sanghee, by the way. Do you know what pack this is?”

Sooyun shook her head. “I lost track past the river, after we crossed through the Kwon territory.”

Sanghee frowned and promptly tried to subdue her reaction. “The Kwons are pretty far back. We’re currently the Sung pack.”

“Currently?”

“It switches when we get new leadership,” she said, as if it was such a common notion.

“Oh,” Sooyun replied.

They stopped in front of a larger cabin, Sanghee knocking at the door before tugging it open.

“Hyunjae,” Sanghee called, holding the door open for Sooyun to step in slowly. "Park Hyunjae?"

A tall woman stepped around a divider, short hair sticking up and eyes wide at the newcomers, probably noting on the foreign scents. Sanghee gestured to the medic’s hair and Hyunjae quickly reached up to pat it down.

“This is Jimin and—” Sanghee attempted to introduce, squinting at Sooyun and realizing she hadn’t gotten her name.

“Sooyun,” she filled in.

“Right. Can you check them for injuries? Sounds like they’ve had a long night out in the woods.”

Hyunjae observed them for a moment, mind whirring as she processed the pair before her, gaze lingering on the blood staining Jimin. She pulled on a smile. “Of course. Sit right over here,” she instructed, pointing to the first cot.

Sooyun settled in with a sigh, every ache in her body resurfacing.

Hyunjae bent down in front of them, her heady alpha scent surrounding them.

Sooyun leaned away.

“Can I take him?” Hyunjae asked quietly, refraining from reaching out for the boy.

Sooyun sucked in a breath. “I... I’d rather you didn’t.”

Hyunjae glanced at Sanghee.

“She said the blood’s not his,” Sanghee offered weakly, both of them clearly grappling with how to deal with the situation.

“Alright,” Hyunjae mumbled, pursing her lips. She knelt to the floor. “Can you get him to sit up in your lap?”

Sooyun hesitated, then nodded. She threaded her fingers through Jimin’s hair. He seemed to be drifting to sleep amidst the warmth of the infirmary. “Jiminie, baby, can you let go of Eomma for a little bit?”

Jimin whined. Sooyun frowned, but grabbed his waist and detached him from her chest all the same. He was too tired to even struggle. He would’ve slumped forward if not for Sooyun’s grip holding him upright. She settled him in her lap, facing him toward the medic.

“Hello, there,” Hyunjae spoke to Jimin, watching him as he blinked at her blearily.

“Sooyun,” Sanghee said softly, drawing her attention. “I’m going to fetch some clean clothes for Jimin, alright?”

Sooyun nodded. “Thank you.”

Sanghee left with a wave, a breeze of crisp air blowing through before the door clicked shut.

Hyunjae ensured Sooyun was watching before she lifted Jimin’s shirt. “No bruises or cuts,” she noted aloud. “Only a few minor scratches on his back and arms. Those’ll be healed in a few days.” Hyunjae pressed her fingers to Jimin’s wrist, checking his pulse. When she was satisfied with the result, she rolled up his pants legs. “No cuts here, either.”

“Like I said, not his blood,” Sooyun muttered.

Hyunjae glanced up at her, expression somber. The room felt too quiet. “Whose is it?”

Sooyun bit the inside of her cheek, meeting Hyunjae’s eyes. “Not mine,” she replied evenly.

Hyunjae arched a brow, picking up on Sooyun’s stubborn reluctance to explain, then sighed and moved on. “Your son’s fine. He just needs some rest and a good meal in the morning.”

She stood and moved to a shelf of sheets and furs, pulling out a thick blanket to wrap Jimin in. “Lay him down while I check you.”

“I’m fine,” Sooyun argued.

“I saw you wince when you put too much weight on your right foot,” Hyunjae stated. “Lay him down.”

Sooyun frowned, biting her tongue. She sort of expected the alpha to order her, yet all Hyunjae did was watch patiently, unmoving until Sooyun gave in. Sooyun audibly huffed, wrapping Jimin tighter in the furs and shifting over to lay him out behind her. She paused, saw her son’s lashes flutter as he settled into the sleep creeping up within his limbs. Sooyun bent down to kiss his forehead, finally taking a moment to exhale in relief that he’d made it so far unscathed.

Hyunjae was watching Jimin with an unreadable expression when Sooyun turned around. Sooyun nudged the knelt alpha with her foot. “So? Do I have to disrobe?” She asked stiffly.

“Not entirely. Also, sorry. Usually there’s an omega in here who’d examine you, but he’s popping out a pup any day now,” she said, shrugging with a “what can you do?” kind of expression.

Sooyun hummed in acknowledgement, shrinking into herself the slightest. “Let’s make this quick, then,” Sooyun muttered, unmoving as she waited for Hyunjae to touch her.

“You’ve got some sass for someone who wandered into a strange pack’s territory,” Hyunjae stated.

“Are you mocking me?”

“No, it’s—” Hyunjae protested, stopping to shake her head. “No. Just a joke.”

Hyunjae grasped her wrist to assess Sooyun’s pulse first, long, tan fingers an odd contrast to Sooyun’s short digits. Hyunjae’s brows pinched together in concentration, hair falling in front of her eyes. She had a nice nose, Sooyun noted. Kind of long and curved at the tip. It suited her thin face. Sooyun pondered if, under different circumstances, she’d find Hyunjae attractive.

Sooyun flinched when Hyunjae’s touch skimmed over the bare skin of her abdomen. “Sorry,” she murmured, fingers moving higher. She rolled Sooyun’s shirt up farther, expression marred by a frown. She prodded lightly at Sooyun’s ribcage. The omega released an involuntary whimper. “Yeah, that’s what I thought. A cracked rib. Actually, two.” She pulled away. “Luckily they’re not broken, so they couldn’t puncture a lung or anything else important. Do you know how you sustained the injury?”

Sooyun had an idea, not that she’d admit it to the alpha. “No,” she replied.

“You’re a terrible liar,” Hyunjae said bluntly.

“I don’t care. You don’t need to know, so I’m not telling you.”

Hyunjae leaned back, expression tense. “Clearly there’s something you’re hiding. Do you think we’re going to hurt you if you admit it?”

“I...” Sooyun clamped her mouth shut. “I'd just rather leave it behind me for now, okay?”

Hyunjae was quiet, gaze flickering from Sooyun to Jimin. “For him?” She asked softly.

Sooyun sucked in a breath, shoulders tense. “Healer Park, do you have any children?”

She seemed startled at the question. She shifted over to examine Sooyun’s injured ankle. “No,” she eventually replied.

Sooyun folded her hands in her lap and straightened her spine. “Well, if you ever do, you’ll understand the lengths you’ll go to for a pup of your own.”

“You’re here for his sake,” Hyunjae concluded.

“Mm,” Sooyun mumbled. “And it’d be best if he didn’t remember anything of his life before this.”

Chapter Text

In October, the pack territory was an expanse of orange and red, the wind cold against Jimin’s cheeks. He tucked his numb fingertips into the sleeves of his heavy coat and glanced up at the darkening sky. It had not rained for a couple weeks, but a new downpour appeared to be looming.

Crisp leaves broke underfoot as Jimin hurried to the massive dining hall. He was close enough to latch onto the noise emanating from the old log structure. It was early enough for the pups to still linger with their parents, childish laughter filtering through the deeper voices of the pack’s adults. Jimin hadn’t bothered checking the time before heading out; he was grateful he’d woken before noon, yet still a bit bitter Taehyung had left the omega dorm without him.

Jimin scurried through the open doorway into the large space. Weak yellow sunlight spilled in from the eastern windows. Food was still out, thankfully, and he could spot his friends at their usual table. Then Taehyung shot up with a blinding grin and pointed at Jimin.

“Ladies and gentlemen, would you look at that! The prettiest omega north of the river has finally graced us with his presence!” He shouted above the rest of the noise.

A few dozen sets of sleepy eyes were directed toward Jimin, who immediately flushed up to his ears. He sighed, then set his shoulders, deciding to play along. Jimin struck a pose, tilting his chin up, placing a hand on his hip, and curving his spine. He winked at his small audience, neck and cheeks flushing red with mild embarrassment. A few of the elder wolves laughed and shook their heads, the younger adults merely rolling their eyes and returning to tending to their fidgety pups.

Jimin’s sultry smile faded into a scowl as he continued toward his friend group once again. Hoseok and Jungkook were cackling; Taehyung seemed much too impressed with himself. “Morning, Chim. Sleep well?”

Jimin sunk down next to Hoseok, glaring across the table at his best friend. “You could’ve done the considerate thing and woken me. I probably missed this morning’s eggs,” Jimin pouted.

“Oh, you definitely did,” Jungkook confirmed, plate already empty.

“I wasn’t sure if Yoongi was still in there,” Taehyung stated with a shrug.

“I’m actually not sure when he left,” Jimin replied.

“I saw him walking back to his cabin, like, an hour ago,” Jungkook commented.

“Still smells too much like alpha in that room. I’d rather not go in under any circumstance,” Taehyung said.

“It’s not that bad!”

“It is! Of course you don’t mind when it’s your alpha—”

“He’s not my alpha.”

“C’mon, Min. He’s your alpha,” Taehyung argued.

“It’s not like we even have sex. I just have trouble sleeping alone sometimes. Besides, I don’t think you’re one to complain. Kookie sleeps over, too.”

“Rarely. Yoongi’s there practically every other night now. You guys just need to mate and move out before you actually get into trouble,” Taehyung said. He straightened up and puffed out his chest. “No alphas allowed in the omega dorm! No exceptions! As Jin would say.”

Jungkook chuckled, then sat up himself. “Boundaries must be enforced to maintain an organized pack,” Jungkook said stiffly, imitating their pack alpha, Namjoon. Taehyung started giggling, only urging him on more. “This is a civilized community. There’s a reason we uphold our traditions.”

“What’s that reason, Joonie?” Taehyung teased.

“Three important standards,” he emphasized, expression surprisingly serious. “Safety, functionality, and honor.” Jungkook’s lips quirked up just as a shadow passed over him, a figure looming above the two.

Hoseok stilled while Jimin paled.

“You forgot respect,” a low voice corrected, lacking amusement. Jungkook’s eyes widened comically and he shrunk lower into his seat. “And your imitation is lacking. Keep practicing, pup.”

Namjoon placed a firm hand on Jungkook’s head and walked behind him, Seokjin snickering and following along closely. The couple settled at the table. Seokjin lifted their pup off his hip and handed him to Namjoon. Haeju squirmed for a bit before curling into his father’s chest, eyes curious and wandering.

“What? No speech about Jungkook’s maturity? About the responsibility of an alpha?” Hoseok questioned with a teasing tone. Jungkook shot him a warning look.

Namjoon sighed. “He’s determined to act like a kid. All I can do at this point is hope he grows out of it.”

“You say that like either of you are all that mature,” Seokjin scoffed. “Hobi, don’t make me bring up any of your dumb pranks.”

“It gets boring around here,” Hoseok muttered.

Jungkook reached over to pick at Taehyung's plate. “Heard Yoongi’s team picked up the scent of some humans yesterday,” he said casually.

“What?” Hoseok balked, expression falling solemn.

“Hey, I’m just saying it's not always boring.”

“Kook,” Taehyung muttered, shaking the alpha from his distracted eating.

Jimin stilled as well, gaze meeting Hoseok’s.

“I’m guessing he didn't tell you, either?” Hoseok asked.

Jimin furrowed his brows. “No. I don’t see why—”

“Yoongi brought the news to me first,” Namjoon raised his voice, attempting to settle a wriggling Haeju in his lap. “We decided it’d be best to investigate it privately. Don’t want to stir up panic in the pack.”

“At the very least, us hunters should know,” Hoseok argued.

Jimin nodded along. “What? Did he think you’re next in line of importance?” Jimin directed at Jungkook.

“Nah, I just happened to be heading toward Namjoon’s office anyway and overheard,” Jungkook shrugged.

“I think you should be more worried, Kook,” Jimin just about hissed.

“Joon’s right. Let’s not make a big deal about it,” Taehyung cut in, voice wavering the slightest.

Jimin sighed and sat back, too swept up in his own worries to scent Yoongi’s approach. He merely felt himself being nudged a few inches over, Yoongi sliding up close next to him. He slung a dark fur over Jimin’s shoulders, Yoongi’s scent suddenly overwhelming his own.

“Why’s everyone so grim this morning?” Yoongi asked gruffly.

Jimin pursed his lips and turned toward him. “You couldn’t bother mentioning the scent you picked up yesterday?” He said a bit coldly.

Yoongi squinted at Jimin, then whipped his attention toward Namjoon.

“It was the pup,” Namjoon explained.

“I’m not a pup,” Jungkook weakly protested.

Yoongi rubbed the bridge of his nose. “The scent was faint.”

“We should all have the right to know it was there at all,” Jimin said, lowering his volume. “Tell us the area, so we can at least be cautious.”

Yoongi shook his head. “You’ll just be avoiding the area altogether for a while. This pack won’t make the same mistakes as last time.”

“We need to take advantage of every bit of hunting ground before winter hits,” Jimin argued, irritated at Yoongi’s simple dismissal, as if the problem would just solve itself.

“Jimin,” Yoongi said firmly—a warning.

Jimin clamped his mouth shut. Although Yoongi was an alpha actively courting Jimin, he was also the pack’s head hunter. As his subordinate in the field, Jimin had to obey warnings and orders, no matter how much it ticked him off.

Their table had gone silent, Jungkook picking awkwardly at Taehyung’s food and Haeju huffing while Seokjin walked away to grab his family breakfast.

“Have you eaten anything?” Yoongi asked, tone softer as he leaned into Jimin.

Jimin wouldn’t meet his eyes. “No.”

Yoongi frowned. He pulled the thick black fur tighter around Jimin’s frame, then tucked Jimin’s hair behind his ear. Jimin stared down at the wood of the table, eyelids heavy and limbs still tired. They’d stayed up too late talking—nothing out of the usual, although they probably should have been making an effort to rest better.

“Alright, wait here,” Yoongi said quietly, standing and moving toward the food laid out in the back of the dining hall.

“You guys going out today?” Taehyung said after a moment, trying to make conversation.

Jungkook hummed in affirmation, shutting his eyes contentedly as Taehyung brushed his fingers through the younger’s hair.

“Who knows how long we’ll be out there if we have to take an alternate route,” Hoseok mumbled.

The Kim Pack’s hunters were divided into teams of three. Jimin worked with Jungkook and Hoseok, the latter acting as their team leader. Although Yoongi ran his own team, he still oversaw the actions and scheduling of the other three, as well.

Seokjin slid back into his seat. “I think you should all stop whining. Your superiors have made a decision, it’s clearly what they think is best. So, deal with it.”

“Of course the head omega would say that,” Jimin grumbled.

“Do you really want to be fighting with both me and Yoongi?” Seokjin said pointedly, stabbing at a sausage and fixing Jimin with a stern look. “You three can take this as a lesson in maturity. Respect what your elders have to say.”

“Wait, Joon’s not older than me,” Hoseok said.

“Shh, it’s only semantics,” Seokjin replied. He shifted over to coo at Haeju, the pup still wriggling around within the confines of Namjoon’s arms.

Taehyung leaned over to watch them, starry-eyed. Taehyung always had a thing for pups. He chose to work as a caretaker the moment he presented; wolves in their packs began training for their chosen jobs once they knew their rank.

“Have you been feeding him solid foods, yet?” Taehyung asked.

“Only a little bit. It's mostly still breastmilk. We’ll start trying to switch over after he’s eight months old. Just one more month, baby,” he said sweetly, tapping the pup’s nose.

“I feel like he was born just yesterday,” Taehyung sighed.

“I agree,” Seokjin nodded.

A plate was slid in front of Jimin, startling him out of his focus on the pair of Kim brothers. Yoongi pushed up close to him, hand on the nape of his neck. Jimin barely even noticed the touch anymore. After years of courting, Yoongi’s scent surrounding him and his skin against his own just felt natural.

Then again, Jimin couldn't shake the irritation prickling within him, the sensation only heightened by Yoongi’s proximity. Jimin started to slowly eat to distract himself.

Jimin couldn’t be mad at the leader part of Yoongi. He was handling matters efficiently, in a way he thought was safe. But the part of Yoongi that was Jimin’s, the part that brought him courting gifts every other day, walked him back to the omega dorm during evenings, had dinner with Jimin’s family and treated them like his own... now, that part of him Jimin could find fault in. Yoongi was with Jimin just last night. At what point did he think it was okay to just keep Jimin in the dark? What would the harm be if he told only one wolf? Jimin figured he was Yoongi’s confidant. This lack of transparency wasn’t sitting right with him.

“—Jimin.”

Jimin’s head whipped up. “What?” He said dazedly.

Taehyung gave him a strange look. “I asked if you wanted to walk to work with me and you didn’t respond. Did you hear me?”

“No, sorry,” Jimin said quietly. He glanced down at his plate. He’d really only been picking at the contents.

“Well, do you want to?”

“Uh, yeah,” Jimin said quickly, standing almost immediately. The table watched his sudden action with mild surprise.

“Alright,” Taehyung said, confused, as well. He moved to take Haeju from Namjoon. The pup was finally old enough to spend part of the day in their care facility.

Taehyung leaned down to peck Jungkook’s cheek, then readjusted the pup on his hip. Jimin followed him away from the table, head still muddy with doubts.

“Jimin.”

Jimin felt Yoongi’s long fingers wrap around his wrist, tugging him around to face him. Yoongi hesitated, tongue heavy with words he wouldn’t say. “Meet us out at the tree line when you’re done,” he reminded instead. “I’ll assign hunting routes.”

“Right, like always,” Jimin said dully. He felt only slightly guilty at the tone. “Later, Yoongi.”

Yoongi released his hold without fuss.

Jimin rushed back after Taehyung, pulling the new fur tighter around himself as he hit the cool morning air. They began the short trek toward the family cabins, the school and care facilities in that direction.

“I don’t know how you do it,” Taehyung stated.

Jimin paused, slightly taken aback. “Do what? Deal with Yoongi?”

“Be a hunter,” he murmured, lips pursed. “As an omega, especially. I can't imagine being out there so deep in the woods, avoiding some animals and killing others. Don’t you feel vulnerable being smaller?”

Jimin tilted his head. It always made sense to him. He supposed the logic wouldn’t appear as apparent to someone who wasn’t also accustomed to the job, the lifestyle. “It’s good to have us omegas around. I may not be big enough to ram a doe down, but someone’s gotta be quick and agile enough to chase them toward the big wolves, y’know?” Jimin exhaled, breath fogging out before him. His cheeks were growing numb. “I fit in small spaces, and I’m faster than any of our alpha hunters. Plus, I don’t really mind the hunting. You get used to the hiding and killing.”

They neared the large building, Haeju still quiet in Taehyung’s grasp.

“What are you going to do when you have pups?”

“I'll have to take a short break—”

“I mean, it’s one thing having a single parent out there. But two?”

“Tae,” Jimin sighed. “Where’s this coming from?”

Taehyung worried his lip. “I just... there’s never been a real threat before. At least not for a really long time. Now, suddenly there are humans back in the area? Humans and their loud weapons? They think we’re animals, a-and I don’t like you or Kook being out there where a human could just be lurking.”

Jimin snorted, shaking his head. “I understand the concern, but we know what we’re doing, Tae. I mean, I’m worried, too. That’s why Yoongi’s whole attitude is sorta pissing me off. But if anyone can help the situation, it’s us—the trained hunters. We know how to fight, and I’m sure we’re much smarter than any human that could hide out there.”

Jimin bumped his shoulder against Taehyung’s, offering him a sympathetic smile.

Taehyung exhaled heavily. “Okay... yeah, I guess you’re right. Just look out for Kook, please? He’s big but he's not—”

“Mature? Experienced? Careful?” Jimin offered with a smirk.

“God, all the above,” Taehyung grumbled.

Jimin snickered. “Don’t worry. I’ve always got my team’s back.”

They walked up the wood steps, entering into the warmth of the square building. A large fire crackled on the wall, illuminating the rugs spread across the wide expanse of the floor. Yongsun was already inside, a few older pups waddling around, toting blankets and toys.

“Hi, Yong,” Taehyung greeted sunnily.

“Hello,” she said, standing to meet them near the entrance. She smiled down at Haeju, reaching out to grasp his hand, delighted when he stuck out his tongue and simply stared. “Welcome back, Kim Haeju. Less fuss leaving Papa this time?”

“No fuss at all, actually,” Taehyung corrected.

“Oh, that’s great news,” she cooed.

“Here. You can take him while I see Jimin off,” Taehyung said, handing Haeju over.

“Sure,” Yongsun replied, bouncing the pup in her arms and walking over to the center of the room where it was warmer.

Jimin shrugged off the new fur, brushing his hands against it, then folding it up.

Taehyung pinched at the thick material, nodding, expression impressed. “This is real nice. Ends sewn well. Fur clean and soft.”

Jimin hummed. “I’d rather not leave it with the rest of my clothes while I’m out today. Can you take it to my room when you go back to the dorms?”

“Yeah, of course.”

Jimin stared at the black material for a moment longer, chest heavy.

“I think you and Yoongi should talk tonight,” Taehyung said quietly. “This isn’t worth getting down about.”

Jimin nodded and took a deep breath. “I know.”

Taehyung plucked the fur from his grasp. Jimin’s arms fell limply to his sides. “Hey, you said you know what you’re doing out there, right? So, get your head on straight.”

Jimin mustered a smile, amused over Taehyung’s forced stern tone. “Okay,” he said. Then again to himself, “Okay.”

Jimin wandered ahead, trailing the strengthening scent of a doe. Hoseok and Jungkook padded on behind him, huffing as they weaved through relatively untrodden paths. Yoongi had instructed them to reroute after all, and none were happy about the change.

“This is too far from the lake. Nothing good is gonna be this far from its water source,” Jungkook grumbled through their mental link.

“Not much we can do about it,” Hoseok replied. “Jimin, how’s it looking?”

“She’s moving south,” Jimin informed, nose to the ground.

He didn't particularly like this part of the woods. The soil was drier, less moss padding the forest floor. He felt as if he was walking on too many prickly branches, dead twigs scattered and uncovered by the unusually barren terrain underfoot. Not to mention how eerily dark it was, the trees dense around them, the distance shrouded in shadow. Jimin felt every one of his nerves on end, paranoia and caution eating away at his subconscious.

Jimin made a sharp turn to the right.

“Great, farther west,” Jungkook complained.

“Shut up. At least you’re not the one doing the scouting,” Jimin retorted. “There are too many weird scents out here.”

Jimin paused when the smell weakened suddenly. Jungkook bumped into his halted body and Hoseok hovered over Jimin, tail flicking at the disturbance. The larger wolves crowded Jimin, Hoseok eventually nudging him in question.

“Give me a moment,” Jimin said, only glancing back at them briefly. “And give me some space.”

Jungkook was the biggest nuisance, considering how bulky his wolf form was. Although Hoseok was much leaner, he was just as tall, the two of them making Jimin’s lithe wolf form look minuscule in comparison.

Jimin pressed himself low and focused in on the faint trail left over. “Something startled her, but I can catch her scent on the wind. She’s only a little farther west,” Jimin explained. Luckily, they were downwind from their prey, but Jimin was aware of how stealthy and quiet he had to be, considering how much his sandy coat stood out against this area’s greenery. “Keep yourself hidden.”

Jungkook nodded, sticking close to the trees they rounded so his dark brown fur could blend in. Hoseok’s ruddy hue would be easier to spot, but staying by Jungkook kept him relatively covered.

Jimin detected a spike in the doe’s scent. She was near. The alphas could evidently smell her, too, both sets of ears perking up, postures tense and alert.

“Jimin, you chase after her when she runs. Kook, you head left, and I’ll move right. Jimin and I can herd her in your direction,” Hoseok said as they drew nearer.

Jungkook growled low in his chest in affirmation.

Jimin saw a tan head poking out from a patch of shrubbery, the doe chewing as she assessed the area. She ducked back down, yet to notice the wolves on her tail.

Jimin crept ever closer, faintly hearing his teammates spread out in their assigned directions. Then someone stepped on a twig. Jimin kept his jaw clamped shut, irritated and unsure if he could catch her with so much distance left. The doe’s head shot up, eyes wide and cautious, stance set to run. Jimin’s window of opportunity was waning, so he tensed his muscles, exhaled, then leapt forward.

The doe startled, scrambling away from Jimin, but the wolf didn’t waste a moment in his pursuit. He ran after her, jumping over bushes and swerving through trees, following her distressed scent more than her blurry, moving figure. He vaguely heard pounding footsteps around him, the other two wolves closing in.

Jimin gritted his teeth, legs aching as he pushed himself harder, trying to pick up speed as they clambered deeper into the dark, unfamiliar woods. Jimin felt a stinging sensation in his front paw, only stumbling a moment before he regained his sprint. Hoseok closed in on them, only a few inches ahead of Jimin, but far enough to urge the doe in Jungkook’s general direction.

Hoseok snapped his jaws at her, close enough for him to nearly sink his teeth into the doe’s back leg. Jimin barked, startling the doe into a misstep, the minor mistake allowing Hoseok the opportunity to collide with the deer, contact brief but effective enough to shove her to one side. Jimin took over from there, ignoring the pain in his paw to chase her down the home stretch.

Jungkook’s scent was growing stronger. It was only a short distance now, Hoseok hot on Jimin’s heels in case something went wrong in the process. Then Jungkook appeared in the tree line, skidding to a halt in their direct path. The doe didn’t have time to process the appearance of a third hunter. She merely dug her hooves into the ground to try to swerve away, but Jungkook acted faster. He rushed forward, mouth open and snarling. He clamped down on the deer’s throat, using brute strength to throw her to the ground. He held the doe as she struggled, biting harder with a sickening crack.

Jimin and Hoseok slowed to stop a few feet away, both panting heavily as Jungkook dealt the killing blow. Blood spurted from the doe’s artery, coating Jungkook’s jaw. He released his grip, and the limp head fell with a weak thud. Jungkook spit out the blood that had filled his mouth.

“Good work, team,” Hoseok said too cheerily.

Jimin huffed out a heavy sigh, the dull throb of pain in his right paw finally catching up to him. He knew it would only worsen as the adrenaline wore off. He tried to hide the limp, walking over to help Hoseok push their kill onto Jungkook’s back.

“How thrilling,” Hoseok went on, tail wagging as he took up the front, leading them back to the center of their territory.

“If you think this is thrilling, you should really hang out with more omegas,” Jungkook said, huffing with the weight of the doe. “That’s where the fun’s at. Right, Jimin?”

It took Jimin a moment too long to even register he was being addressed. He could smell his own blood, frustrated that the minor wound had to be bleeding. He'd never hear the end of it from Yoongi or his family if it got infected.

“Huh? Yeah, sure. We’re a wild time,” Jimin responded dully, unintentionally falling behind.

Hoseok slowed. “You okay?”

“Just stepped on something. I'm fine,” Jimin brushed off.

Hoseok scented the air, ears laid flat against his head. “I can smell your blood from here, Jimin.”

“I'll wrap it when we get back, alright?” Jimin said, baring his teeth in annoyance.

“Who stepped on your tail?” Jungkook said.

“Not a good day for backtalk, Kook,” Jimin retorted, effectively shutting him up for the remainder of their trek back.

When they returned to the edge of the forest, pack buildings well in sight, they met Yoongi’s team. Jimin searched for the black coat, but only saw the silver fur of Hyejin and light brown of Wheein.

The pair of wolves were dragging a buck and a fox toward the storage shed, where they deposited most of their kills waiting to be skinned and cooked. Jungkook and Hoseok trailed after them.

Jimin limped toward the chests outside the shed where they stored their clothes while hunting, quickly shifting and changing before he could get too cold. Jimin wrapped the speckled brown fur around himself, wincing when he was reminded of his injury. His cut was deeper than he had anticipated, still open and bleeding, staining the light fur in his grasp. Jimin groaned under his breath. Yoongi had given it to him just last month.

When Jimin rounded the corner, the four wolves stepped out of the shed, Yoongi exiting behind them, already shifted and clothed. Yoongi wrinkled his nose as his gaze landed on Jimin. Well, more importantly, when he scented Jimin’s blood.

He rushed forward and began searching for Jimin’s injury. “Yoongi,” Jimin protested, holding out his hand. “Look. It’s just a cut.”

Yoongi's expression only tensed further. “That needs to be disinfected.”

“I know—”

“I’ll walk you to the infirmary.”

“It’s fine, Yoon,” Jimin sighed, trying to wrench his hand away, yet to no avail. “You need to wait here for the last team to get back. And I don’t want to bother the medics with something so small. I’ll go back to the dorm and clean it myself.”

“Hyejin can wait instead,” Yoongi insisted, glossing over the entire latter half of Jimin’s statement.

The four wolves glanced between them rather awkwardly. Then Hoseok and Jungkook ducked their heads, slinking away to go shift. Hyejin huffed, yet sat down and made herself comfortable, clearly adhering to the command. Wheein curled up to her, averting her eyes from the bickering couple.

“Yoongi,” Jimin whined. “Don’t make a big deal. I'm tired and I just wanna go home.”

“It’ll be quick,” Yoongi muttered, evidently not budging.

Jimin puffed out his cheeks. “Why do you have to be so stubborn?”

Yoong’s frown eased up, knowing he’d won the argument. He tugged Jimin close and placed a hand on the small of Jimin’s back. He turned on his heel briefly to address Hyejin. “Howl if something’s wrong, yeah?”

Hyejin growled in affirmation, shutting her eyes as Wheein lapped at her jaw.

Jimin fell quiet as Yoongi led them down the familiar path to the infirmary. He kept his mouth clamped shut, although he knew he needed to talk to Yoongi and resolve this tension between them at some point. He supposed this was an excuse to put it off for a little longer, though.

When they stepped into the small hut of the infirmary, Hyunjae was sifting through jars of herbs, nose pressed close to the glass as she squinted at the labels.

“Healer Park,” Yoongi greeted.

Hyunjae huffed and stepped back, surprised at their presence. “Ah, sorry. My eyesight isn’t what it used to be.”

“That’s alarming, considering you... operate on people,” Jimin mumbled. Then louder, “JaeJae, he’s making me get this professionally disinfected.” Jimin pouted and held out his hand, palm up.

Hyunjae chuckled at Jimin’s expression, laugh lines around her eyes crinkling. Her short hair had streaks of gray now. She looked so young in Jimin’s earliest memories. It was odd watching his parents grow old before his eyes. To be fair, though, Jimin’s mother wasn’t quite as old as Hyunjae.

Hyunjae grasped his hand gently and looked over the wound. “Well, it’s not bleeding much anymore. There’s a lot already clotted, but we might have to wipe that away. Sit down, sweetie. I’ll get the alcohol.”

Jimin nodded, slowly wandering to an empty cot and lowering himself down, joints stiff from the exertion of the hunt. Yoongi sat across from him, glancing around as Hyunjae collected a clean cloth.

“Medics never call me sweetie,” Yoongi muttered in mock offense.

“Maybe if the medic was your parent,” Jimin shrugged. “Better luck in your next life.”

“You shouldn’t be talking about next lives until you get to my age,” Hyunjae joked, settling down beside Jimin. She pulled his hand into her lap and poured alcohol on the cloth. Jimin gritted his teeth, anticipating the sting when she pressed the damp material to his cut. He shut his eyes and leaned forward, forehead pressed to Yoongi’s chest.

“You’re such a baby, Jimin,” Hyunjae teased.

“But it hurts,” Jimin whined, knowing he could always glean sympathy from Hyunjae.

“Then, be more careful next time.”

“Not my fault,” Jimin muttered. “New terrain.”

He hissed as Hyunjae began to dab at the wound.

She pulled the cloth away, material stained red, and picked up a roll of gauze. “You’ll have to redress this tomorrow and keep it covered for another day, but after that, you can leave it be. It’ll be mostly healed within a week. No hunting until it’s completely healed up, though. Okay?”

Jimin sighed, yet nodded.

Hyunjae looked at Yoongi pointedly.

“His team can manage without him for a few days,” Yoongi assured.

Jimin straightened his spine once his hand was wrapped. He frowned down at the thick gauze, palm now too stiff to close properly. Picking stuff up was going to be a whole new challenge. “Great, thanks,” Jimin sighed, watching Hyunjae rise and toss the cloth in a hamper.

Jimin was preparing to stand when Hyunjae lingered by the herbs, eyes on Jimin. “Do you need contraceptives while you’re here?”

Yoongi inhaled sharply, an awkward stiffness evident in his limbs. While Jimin was accustomed to the awkwardness of asking Hyunjae for jack-in-the-pulpit root, Yoongi never had to accompany Jimin to experience the interaction before then.

“No. Heat’s still pretty far off,” Jimin denied, ignoring the flush along his neck. “Thanks, though.”

Hyunjae shrugged, never one to be bothered by the subject.

After Jimin presented at fifteen, he spent his first few heats alone. They were torturous. Yoongi began courting him when Jimin was sixteen, and soon after, Jimin asked if he’d be his heat partner.

Yoongi held rather traditional views. He wanted to have sex with Jimin only once they were mated. But the more Jimin described how awful the heats were alone, the more sympathy Yoongi harbored for Jimin. Yoongi still insisted he’d handle his ruts by himself, but they came to the compromise that they’d only sleep together during Jimin’s heats.

Of course, that agreement also meant Jimin needed contraceptives. The first time he went to the infirmary, he specifically sought out a time when Hyunjae wouldn’t be present. He shyly asked one of the omega medics for the root, and she nodded in understanding.

Jimin wasn’t so lucky the second time around. It was inevitable that she’d find out. That didn’t mean Jimin was any less embarrassed to find Hyunjae the only medic present, however. His heat had been creeping up on him, and he knew he was nearly out of time. So, he sucked it up and asked for the herbs, looking away when Hyunjae arched a curious brow.

“Well, this is new,” she’d mumbled to herself, searching out the store of contraceptives. She was rather laid-back as she explained how to use the root. Jimin didn't have the heart to tell her that he’d received instructions from someone else previously. Then, like an arrow to the gut, Hyunjae said, “If Yoongi gets you pregnant, he’s mating you.”

“I-I never said it was Yoongi,” Jimin stuttered nervously, red up to the tips of his ears.

Hyunjae snorted. “Who else would it be?”

Jimin merely ducked his head and scurried toward the exit, shouting a mortified, “Don’t tell Eomma!”

Now, it was finally Yoongi’s turn to glance around awkwardly, fiddling with the sleeve of his shirt while Hyunjae resumed her herb-sifting. Jimin rolled his eyes.

“Come on, Yoon,” Jimin said, pushing himself to his feet and moving toward the door.

“Oh, Jimin,” Hyunjae called before Jimin could depart. Jimin noticed a tuft of her hair sticking up in the back. “Visit your mother sometime, yeah? She keeps nagging about how little she sees you.”

“If she went to breakfast earlier—” Jimin sighed, cutting himself off. “Fine. I’ll try to have dinner with you guys sometime soon.”

Hyunjae nodded with a smile. “Good. She likes complaining about how much she misses her son.”

“She also likes complaining about how I haven’t had pups yet,” Jimin muttered under his breath. “See you later, JaeJae,” Jimin then raised his voice, ducking out of the hut with Yoongi trailing behind him.

The sun had sunk much lower on the horizon while they were indoors. The expanse of swaying grass ahead of them was cast in a vibrant orange. If Jimin squinted, he was sure it’d look like a sea of whispering flames.

“Got a few more hours until dinner,” Jimin observed, walking slowly in the direction of the omega dorm.

Yoongi grasped his uninjured hand, threading their fingers together. He hummed in affirmation.

Jimin looked up at the alpha through his lashes, reluctant once again to talk. But they needed to, he reminded himself. What was a relationship without communication?

The silence was strange, seemingly widening the distance between them throughout their walk. Jimin swore he could feel Yoongi’s gaze heavy on him, yet kept his own eyes focused ahead.

When they reached the large, looming omega dorm, Jimin paused by the stairs. “Come inside with me?” He asked weakly, drained from the hunt and the stress of his wound.

Yoongi glanced out at the territory behind them, probably drawn to the rest of his hunters, unsure how that last trek turned out. Yoongi was a leader first, an aching truth that Jimin was constantly reminded of.

Yet, surprisingly, Yoongi turned back to Jimin with a gentleness in his expression. “Sure,” he said.

They ascended the steps together, Jimin pushing open the heavy door and facing a lack of the usual bustle in the entryway. Most of the omegas must have still been away for the day. Jimin followed the path to his room, route second nature, Yoongi just as familiar with it.

Yoongi’s scent from the previous night still lingered when Jimin stepped into his room. The bed was a mess of sheets and furs, a small scene of chaos he hadn’t bothered rearranging after he’d woken. He noticed the folded black fur set neatly on his dresser, surely thanks to Taehyung.

Yoongi sat on the edge of the bed while Jimin shrugged off his speckled pelt, sighing at the crimson stains. Seokjin could probably wash them out if Jimin asked nicely enough. He laid it over his desk chair in the meantime.

Jimin’s movements were a bit cautious as he returned to Yoongi’s side, an unusual distance between them as Jimin settled a few inches away.

“You’re stressed,” Yoongi murmured, easily picking it up through his scent.

Jimin looked down at his lap and played with his own fingers, bottom lip pulled between his teeth.

“I-I know you have to take care of the hunters, and... and the pack,” Jimin began quietly. “I know that's your biggest priority, b-because that’s your position. You’re one of the protectors. You’re Head Hunter. I know.”

Yoongi kept silent, merely watching Jimin struggle with his words. Yoongi’s jaw clenched tight, evidently holding himself back. His first instinct was to encompass Jimin in his embrace when the omega was distressed, yet he was also understanding enough of Jimin’s body language to be aware of when his touch wasn’t desired.

“But I want you to be honest with me,” Jimin confessed, exhaling heavily, shoulders slumping. “I get it. There are ways we do things, chain of command, all that. But I still want to know when something’s up. I want to hear your concerns from you first, not from Kook offhandedly.”

“Jimin,” Yoongi breathed. “You knew I was going to be your superior when you became a hunter.”

“You’re more than just my superior, though,” Jimin protested, finally turning to face Yoongi, lips pressed together and expression somber. “If you want to be my mate, you can’t leave me in the dark over big stuff like this, even if you are my superior.”

“You understand why I have to hide things, don’t you?”

“I—” Jimin bit his lip. “Yes, but... But it hurts when you keep things from me. Partners are supposed to be open. There should be a level of trust here, especially with how many years this has been going on. Yoongi,” Jimin enunciated, brows drawn in concern. “I want a mate who doesn’t hide things from me, no matter what it is. I don’t want to be a-an inferior in your field before your—your partner!”

Yoongi looked at him with wide eyes, tongue heavy.

Mating had become a sensitive subject for them. Although Jimin had been old enough to mate for basically an entire year, he’d brushed it off at any mention. Yoongi started courting Jimin early, as did many alphas, so they could be close enough to mate when Jimin was of age. Yet, here they still were, struggling to reach agreements on what they both wanted in the long run.

And it was disputes like this that really made Jimin wary of mating at all. It’s not like Yoongi wasn’t the right alpha. Rather, Jimin thought very highly of him, and he figured they made a pretty good pair. But these kinds of arguments, these standstills they often reached, were concerning for Jimin.

Mating was permanent. It was a decision he couldn’t take back. There was always the nagging fear at the back of his skull, warning him that taking that final step could turn out to be a mistake.

Yes, Jimin loved Yoongi. God, he loved the alpha so damn much. But then again, he was young. His intense love for Yoongi could be clouding the logic in his perception of their relationship.

If they couldn’t find common ground on important subjects like communication and honesty, Jimin couldn’t be sure how the future would unfold.

At the end of the day, the image of Jimin’s mother’s faded mating mark haunted him. It was a reminder of a massive mistake of her youth, and the mate she left behind long ago. A mate that Jimin had assumed he was just too young to remember. Sooyun may have been happily mated to Hyunjae now, but that second, older mark would forever be a stark fixture on her skin.

Jimin hadn’t realized he’d started shaking, only startled back to reality by Yoongi’s steady hand over his.

“I’m sorry,” Yoongi whispered, brushing Jimin’s hair back. “I didn’t know how much this meant to you.”

“I just want honesty,” Jimin uttered, leaning into his touch.

“Then I’ll do better,” Yoongi said. “I can’t make promises right now, Jimin. Trust me, all I want is to make you happy. But there’s also the pack to consider. I can try to keep you as informed as possible. Yet even then, I can’t be arguing with you out in the field, around other hunters. You can’t go against my decisions so openly. It’s just—”

“A hierarchy thing. I know,” Jimin sighed. “I’ll hold myself back, as long as we can talk openly when we’re alone. Just like this. I want us to trust each other.”

Yoongi pursed his lips, expression softening. “I already do trust you, Jimin. I love you, and I... I think of you when these sorts of situations come up. I want you to be safe.”

Jimin nodded, eyes watery. “Alright. I guess we’ve both got some work to do, then.”

Yoongi shifted closer, pulling Jimin into his embrace. “I guess we do,” he whispered, nose to Jimin’s hair, hand rubbing soothingly up Jimin’s back.

Jimin closed his eyes and pressed himself against Yoongi, settling in his arms. For now, this was the best they could do—try.

Chapter Text

Yoongi started courting Jimin right after the omega’s sixteenth birthday. Although they’d been close friends since they were pups, the first gift came as a surprise.

Yoongi was a couple years into hunting training. He was soon to be placed into an official team. He’d spent the months leading up to October looking for the most attractive pelts of his kills. Yoongi planned to court Jimin for quite a long while, anxious for the right moment to get the ball rolling. He wanted his gift for Jimin to be entirely from himself. He learned how to meticulously skin animals, clean their pelts, and sow the edges to make coats or blankets. And when he finally returned home from a hunting trip with a vibrantly colored deer, the brown fur of the pelt resembling an orange hue, tapering off to white in some sections, he knew he’d found just the right gift.

When Yoongi presented the fur to Jimin, the omega was leaving the dorm with Taehyung, only half awake.

First Yoongi called his name, so Jimin turned to him expectantly, wondering what couldn’t wait until they were at the dining hall. Then Yoongi procured the fur, holding it out with his head slightly bowed. "For you," Yoongi said hastily, voice not as firm as Jimin was accustomed to. Yoongi actually appeared shy for once, leaving Jimin’s groggy brain reeling for a moment.

“Oh,” Jimin murmured, initially thinking it was a late birthday gift. Taehyung gaped as Jimin accepted the fur, amazed at how soft it was under his fingertips. He noticed the blush along Yoongi’s neck, wondering what had the alpha so worked up. Jimin noted Yoongi’s posture next, the way he humbled himself in front of Jimin, appearing non-threatening. Then the distance between them, Yoongi’s scent clinging heavy to the pelt... all to make Jimin feel safe. "Oh!" Jimin gasped as the realization dawned on him.

Jimin tugged the fur closer, holding it to his chest with elation. He’d been so caught up in his familiarity with Yoongi that the possibility of courting hadn’t even crossed his mind.

Taehyung pulled himself together and began snickering behind his hand, much too amused over Jimin’s previous obliviousness.

"T-thank you, Yoongi," Jimin managed to utter.

Yoongi straightened up, nodding. Jimin’s blush was deeper than his now.

Jimin slung the fur over his shoulders, wrapping himself in Yoongi’s scent—a clear acceptance of the proposal.

'Holy shit," Taehyung breathed, nearly choking on a cackle. "You just—you were just staring, like—"

"Shut up, Tae," Jimin whined.

"Well, at least he figured it out eventually," Yoongi added, shyness fading.

Jimin liked how easily they fell back into their normal. Yoongi’s teasing, Jimin's pout, the smiles they were trying but failing to hide. The more Jimin considered the notion of being courted by Yoongi, the more it made sense. When he really pictured it, Yoongi was the one wolf he could imagine mating. One of the people who knew him best. They worked well together. They simply fit.

"Wait," Jimin said suddenly, holding a hand out for Yoongi to stay. Jimin turned around and rushed back up the steps, running past a group of sleepy omegas on his way to his room.

Jimin, Yoongi, and the rest of their friends had taken a trip to the coastline not long ago. Jimin had found a glittering, almost opaque blue rock on the shore. He'd stashed it away for safekeeping, and he dug around in his dresser for it once again.

Omegas didn’t always give courting gifts in return, but Jimin wanted to show his affections for Yoongi as well. He grinned down at the rock once he found it, laying it flat on his palm and tilting it to catch the sunlight. It was nearly the hue of the ocean. Hopefully Yoongi would find it as pretty as he did.

Jimin rushed back outside, holding onto his fur to keep it from falling loose. He burst out of the dorm and halted breathlessly in front of a wide-eyed Yoongi. "Here," Jimin announced, holding out the rock. “A gift in return.”

Yoongi accepted it with a curious expression, turning it in his hand, watching the blue hue sparkle. He rubbed his thumb over the smooth surface, seemingly in awe of the small thing. He smiled wide, looking back up at Jimin.

Jimin’s heart skipped a beat.

"Thank you," Yoongi said quietly. He stepped closer and kissed Jimin’s cheek.

☽○☾

Jimin curled into the warmth at his back, snuggling further under the mess of blankets tangled around his limbs. The sun had just barely risen, peeking through the slit in his curtains. Jimin felt Yoongi’s arms tighten around his waist, the alpha shifting with a sigh.

“Happy twenty-first, pup,” Yoongi muttered, pressing a kiss to the nape of Jimin’s neck.

“Don’t think you get to call me pup anymore,” Jimin rasped, huffing out a chuckle.

“Any younger wolf is a pup,” Yoongi groggily reasoned. He nuzzled into Jimin’s neck, scenting him.

Jimin struggled to turn around just to pout at Yoongi. “But ‘m not a pup.”

“What else should I call you, then?” Yoongi asked mirthfully. “Pretty baby? Sunshine? Clingy omega?”

Jimin groaned in embarrassment and tugged a blanket up to cover his face. “Stop,” he whined.

“How about whiny Minie? I think that one works,” Yoongi continued to tease.

“Be nice to me. It’s my birthday,” Jimin said.

“Oh, my apologies,” Yoongi replied, leveling Jimin with a sly look.

Jimin didn’t have time to prepare himself before Yoongi was tickling his sides. Jimin screeched, trying to wiggle out of his grasp but only tangling himself further in the sheets, incapable of escape. “Stop!” Jimin wailed, tears pricking his eyes as he heaved with laughter. “Yoongi, please!”

Jimin pushed at his chest and kicked, struggling to force Yoongi to stop. It worked somewhat, considering Yoongi had to let up on the tickling to wrestle Jimin back. Jimin continued squirming, attempting to roll himself on top of Yoongi to get the upper hand. Yoongi grasped his biceps and wrangled him down against the mattress, holding him there despite Jimin’s best efforts.

When Jimin’s teary vision regained focus, Yoongi was hovering over him with a victorious smirk. “You cheating bastard,” Jimin hissed, kicking out vainly once more before accepting fate and sinking into the bed. “You can’t use alpha strength to win!”

“And yet I just did,” Yoongi sighed dramatically.

Jimin narrowed his eyes and stuck his tongue out.

Yoongi’s expression eased, adoring eyes roving over Jimin’s bedhead and thin shirt ridden up his stomach. “What do you want to do today, birthday pup?” He asked softly.

“Go to the beach!” Jimin exclaimed with a grin.

“Too far away. It’d take us the whole day to get there,” Yoongi said. “We’ll go some other time.”

Jimin pressed his lips together and hummed. “Then I wanna stay here in bed, where it’s warm and I don’t have to do anything.”

“You want to do nothing?” Yoongi arched a brow.

“Well, not exactly nothing,” Jimin corrected quietly. He slung his arms around Yoongi’s shoulders, one palm on his nape. Jimin felt the muscles in his abdomen tighten as he sat up, pressing a kiss to Yoongi’s lips. The contact was short and sweet, Jimin flopping back down after only a few moments.

Yoongi blinked at him, only mildly taken aback, before he pressed himself into Jimin, kissing him firmer. He grasped the omega’s chin, holding him in place as their kiss deepened. Yoongi’s tongue parted Jimin’s lips, Jimin gasping into his open mouth. Jimin shivered at the warm sensation of Yoongi’s tongue against his, reveling in their proximity and shared breathing, Yoongi’s chest nearly flat against his. He liked feeling the weight of the alpha’s body, the grip of his hand as he grasped Jimin’s waist and squeezed.

Jimin’s belly was growing hot with desire, a purr low in his throat as he rutted up against Yoongi. Yoongi’s palm skimmed lower until he pushed Jimin back down by his abdomen.

Jimin groaned in frustration at the loss of friction, still losing focus as Yoongi sucked at Jimin’s bottom lip. “Yoon,” Jimin said huskily, fingers wrapped up in his hair. He tried rolling his hips up again, just for Yoongi to stop him with a grunt. “Fuck me,” Jimin said huskily.

Yoongi splayed his hand over the bare skin of Jimin’s toned stomach. He broke the kiss, lips only ghosting over Jimin’s. “You don’t have any contraceptives.”

“I don’t care,” Jimin said, chasing that lusty fog filling his head.

Yoongi pulled away completely with a frown. “Jimin,” he addressed firmly, shaking Jimin from his daze.

Jimin took a moment to catch his breath, holding Yoongi’s stare with hooded eyes. “What? I doubt I’ll get pregnant if it’s just once.”

Yoongi rolled his eyes and sat back on his heels, straddling Jimin. “Were you really raised by a medic?”

“I can’t be that fertile,” Jimin mused.

Yoongi sighed and patted Jimin’s belly, then tugged his shirt back down to fully cover him. “Sure, pup,” he muttered.

Footsteps pounded down the hall and the bedroom door was shoved open before either of them could properly react.

“Happy birthday, Jiminie!” Taehyung yelled.

Yoongi winced at the volume.

Taehyung’s excited grin fell as he spotted Yoongi, the alpha rolling off of Jimin to sit on the other side of the bed. “Why are you always here?” He complained. “You have your own house, y’know. That you built. I assume it’s furnished.”

“Well, when Jimin finally decides to live there—”

“Yoongi,” Jimin sighed, cutting him off.

Their pack had a very strict custom concerning housing. After alphas presented, they tended to live in the alpha dorm for a few years until they were in a serious courtship. To prepare for a potential mate, they’d take up residence in an empty cabin or build their own.

The alphas typically furnished the home in a manner they thought would please their potential mate. The real strict part of it all, though, was that no other wolves aside from the alpha’s family were allowed in the home until they mated. Therefore, Jimin had yet to even look inside Yoongi’s cabin.

Taehyung snorted. “Until then, Jiminie should be all mine,” Taehyung stated, walking across the room to flop down on top of Jimin. Jimin merely grunted, unbothered as Taehyung nuzzled into Jimin’s neck and promptly wrinkled his nose when he was assaulted by Yoongi’s scent.

“You’re gonna miss lunch if you lay in bed all day,” Taehyung chastised. “I think Jinnie even made cookies for you.”

Jimin perked up. “Really?”

Taehyung nodded. “We can go get washed up, then find him at the dining hall.”

Jimin glanced at Yoongi in question. Yoongi shrugged. “Go ahead. I’ve got to go out with my team at some point today. I guess I can come find you before dinner at your mother’s?”

“Ah, that’d be good,” Jimin agreed. He couldn’t sit up and kiss Yoongi like he wanted to with Taehyung still on top of him. So he just smiled sheepishly.

 Yoongi huffed out a short chuckle, leaning down to press a quick kiss to Jimin’s red lips. “See you later, Minie,” he murmured, parting and moving off the bed.

“Bye,” Jimin said with a smile. “Love you!” He shouted as Yoongi left.

Taehyung was breathing evenly by the time the room fell silent, head rested on Jimin’s chest.

“How long’ve you been up?” Jimin questioned.

“Not long,” Taehyung muttered, cheek squished. “I have the afternoon shift with the pups today, so I slept in a little.”

“That’s nice,” Jimin hummed. “Seen Kook at all?”

Taehyung shook his head, really only managing to rub against Jimin’s chest. “He said he’d be out on a hunt from early morning ‘til afternoon. They’ve been working longer hours since you’ve been out of commission.”

Jimin held up his healing palm. He should be good to rejoin in another day or so. “That’s rough. Guess they really do need me.”

Taehyung chuckled breathily. “Yup.”

Jimin wiggled around. He patted Taehyung’s back. “Get up so we can go, yeah? Maybe the bath isn’t very busy at this hour.”

Taehyung exhaled heavily and nodded. He pushed himself up tiredly, brushing through his hair. Finally freed, Jimin rolled off the mattress and padded over to his dresser. He gathered some pants and a thick sweater, rifling through his large drawer of furs. He’d had to migrate quite a few to a basket in the corner a while ago, the drawer filling up quick considering how often Yoongi gifted him with new items. Jimin was proud to say he had quite the array.

His hands lingered by the neatly folded brown fur in the corner. The first fur Yoongi gave him remained Jimin’s favorite. He really only wore it on special occasions, too scared of damaging it.

Jimin lifted it out carefully, unfolding the fur to admire it. Yeah, Jimin could afford to wear it for a day. Taehyung approached behind him, eyes on the vibrantly-colored pelt as well.

“God, I remember when you guys started courting so clearly. You two were so cute and awkward.”

Jimin smiled. “It’s weird to think it’s been, what, just about five years?”

“Mm. You guys have such a nice story to tell your pups. Meanwhile, Kook’s was barely a real proposal.”

“I don’t think I was there for that?” Jimin said, drawing a blank.

“No, you were. Just about the whole pack was,” Taehyung pouted. “It was three years ago, right outside the dining hall. I told Kookie how nice his new coat was. It was caribou. So he just turns around and is like, ‘yeah?’ And I'm like, ‘yeah. I really like it.’ So he fucking took it off and threw it at me! And said ‘Then take it.’”

Oh, right. Now Jimin remembered. Most everyone thought it was merely their usual antics. Taehyung and Jungkook had a habit of breaking out into wrestling matches when they were younger. Jimin could only laugh at Taehyung’s shocked expression as Jungkook shoved the coat into Taehyung’s arms. It seemed Jungkook was the only one who considered it a courting proposal.

“He came up to me later that day, suddenly weirdly shy and said, ‘so we’re courting now?’” Taehyung retold incredulously. “My alpha’s an idiot.”

“Well,” Jimin began, having no real end to that statement. He tried to think of something positive. “He, uh, goes all in?”

Taehyung snorted in amusement. “Sure, alright.”

Jimin snickered and laid his clothes and chosen fur over his arm, turning toward the door. “Hey, at the very least, your pups will be very pretty.”

Taehyung sighed. “True. We’re both exceptionally attractive.”

He threw an arm over Jimin’s shoulders and guided them to the back of the dorm. They pushed open the double doors, emerging into a wide room, steam trailing up to the high roof. The communal bath drew water from a natural spring, the water warm even during winters. It was astonishingly unoccupied. Usually there’d be small groups of omegas gossiping in the mornings or late in the evenings. The water laid unusually still, though.

The omegas shed their clothes and stepped in, Taehyung hissing at the temperature. Jimin sunk down to his shoulders immediately, small ripples lapping at his chin.

Taehyung swam around, overjoyed at the rarity of having the space to themselves. Meanwhile, Jimin pressed himself up against the edge and closed his eyes.

“So... I could definitely scent some sex pheromones in your room,” Taehyung said conversationally.

Jimin pursed his lips. “We didn’t have sex.”

“Sure reeked of it,” Taehyung muttered.

Jimin’s eyes snapped open. “I wanted to, but Yoongi said no. Didn’t have any contraceptives.”

“Oh,” Taehyung said simply, joking demeanor fading. “Yeah, you shouldn’t play around with that stuff.” Taehyung paused, wading in the water. “Jin was talking about this omega he works with. Apparently the poor girl got pregnant by a random heat partner.”

Jimin wrinkled his nose. “That sucks.”

“Uh huh... He went on this rant about pregnant, unmated omegas though. Like he’d have any idea what it’s like to not get mated after less than a year.”

Taehyung wasn’t wrong. Namjoon started courting Seokjin when he was nineteen. They mated when he was twenty. It all happened so fast.

Jimin’s mother often talked about that feeling of knowing when a wolf is “the one.” She said you’re supposed to know if someone’s meant to be your mate. The concept always confused Jimin. To him, it sounded like there was some matter of fate involved. But maybe Namjoon and Seokjin felt it?

“I hate how preachy he gets. Just because he’s the perfect omega doesn’t mean he gets to judge how the rest of us do things.”

“Is that sibling rivalry?” Jimin attempted to joke.

Taehyung didn’t even crack a smile. “It... it just gets annoying being compared to him, y’know? Not everyone’s gonna mate a pack alpha. Not everyone’s gonna wait to have sex and pups and the whole thing!”

Taehyung released an irate huff, sinking down into the water until half his face was submerged.

“Taetae,” Jimin coaxed gently, managing to draw his attention. “You know you’re your own person. So it doesn’t matter, right? As long as you’re doing things your way.”

Taehyung’s expression eased, eyes softening. He bobbed back up to the surface, frown mild. “Yeah, I know,” he mumbled.

Jimin beckoned him over, wrapping the omega in a hug as Taehyung rested his head in the crook of Jimin’s neck. He purred as Jimin threaded his fingers through his hair, thumb rubbing at the tense nape of his neck.

“You still smell like Yoongi,” he complained weakly.

Jimin laughed.

The dining hall was relatively empty when Jimin and Taehyung entered. There was a lull between the breakfast and lunch crowds. The cooks wouldn’t be serving again for probably another half hour. In the back of the hall, past an open doorway, was the bustle of the kitchen. They found Seokjin supervising the scene of organized chaos.

“Jimin!” He exclaimed excitedly when he spotted the two. “Look at you, birthday boy. I remember when you were just a tiny pup,” he said, approaching them with a hand on his hip.

“You’re not that much older than us,” Taehyung said, watching with amusement as Jimin was strangled by a hug. Jimin sucked in a deep breath when Seokjin released him.

“Old enough to think you were so tiny,” Seokjin cooed, squeezing Jimin’s cheeks like he did to his own pup. “Oh, I made you something,” he said, turning around and grabbing a plate of thick pumpkin cookies. “Your eomma reminded me of how much you like these.”

A grin bloomed on Jimin’s lips as he accepted the plate. “Thanks, Jinnie.”

Seokjin smiled back. “Here, you guys can sit around for a little while if you’d like. I wouldn’t mind the company.”

“Are we not company enough?” A girl called from the other end of the kitchen.

Seokjin rolled his eyes. “You know what I meant, Minjee!” He turned back to the omegas and gestured to a line of counters overlooking the rest of the kitchen, a few tall chairs pulled up.

Jimin looked to Taehyung.

“I don’t have work for another hour,” he shrugged, enough affirmation for Jimin.

They settled in, Taehyung picking up the first cookie and biting into it happily. They were both rather relaxed and fresh-faced from their bath, skin still warm and pink.

“How’s the hunting situation going?” Seokjin asked, probably just trying to make conversation. He leaned over the countertop as the other two chewed.

“Don’t get him started,” Taehyung muttered.

Jimin sucked in a deep breath.

“You got him started,” Taehyung sighed.

“I’m sure you’ve noticed how much less meat has been brought in,” Jimin said pointedly. “I love Yoongi, I do, but his dumb ass is being way too cautious. Our usual hunting grounds are entirely off limits! For all we know, the fucking humans could be stealing our kills. Meanwhile, my team’s without their best tracker, and everyone’s just trying to figure out this new—objectively worse—terrain. All I can say is, what the fuck!”

Jimin finished his rant and leaned back in his seat, arms crossed and brows drawn.

Seokjin cleared his throat, certainly not prepared for that outburst. “So I take it things aren’t ideal.”

Jimin threw his arms up in defeat. “I just—I—I don’t know what to say anymore,” he grumbled. “Tell me about your baby.”

Taehyung gave Jimin a sympathetic look.

“Alright,” Seokjin said slowly. "Well, I've gotten a lot more work done in here now that he’s away for a decent part of the day. But at night, he—” Seokjin clenched his fists. “He crawls everywhere. It’s so adorable. When Joonie and I are both home, he’ll hold Haeju up and help him walk. He’s got these chubby legs, but he still takes steps. A-and I really can’t handle it.”

“Cute,” Taehyung wailed, splaying his upper half across the counter top, chewed cookie pressed to the inside of his cheek. “Why are pups so damn cute? I want to cuddle all of them. The ones with the big cheeks are the best.”

“They’re kind of annoying when they cry,” Jimin added quietly.

The Kims looked at him with confusion. “Seriously?” Taehyung said incredulously.

“Hey, we should be glad I’m not pup-crazy. I don’t need to be jumping into that right now. Especially with...” Jimin trailed off, expression growing somber. “You know.”

Taehyung and Seokjin exchanged a look.

“I get it,” Taehyung amended softly. “And you’ve still gotta keep Yoongi on his toes, right? No mating just yet.”

Jimin nodded.

“Why don’t you guys eat before the crowd, huh?” Seokjin suggested, walking away before they could answer. He returned with sandwiches for them, ruffling Jimin’s hair after he set the plates down. Jimin didn’t quite mind being babied at the moment.

Jimin ate quietly while Seokjin and Taehyung talked about their work. Apparently the farmers had an influx of pumpkins this year and Seokjin was trying to wrap his head around how to utilize it all. Taehyung had a couple new pups in the care center. Twins, actually. They were rather fussy and had a tendency to throw blocks at each other.

Jimin was a little bitter he had nothing to share of his past week. He’d only picked up bits of stories from Hoseok, the alpha describing his and Jungkook’s troubles with the grounds to the west. The area wasn’t sparse enough to allow much sunlight. Hoseok said the environment felt plainly suffocating.

By the time they were ready to leave, their sandwiches were eaten and most of the cookies gone. They bid Seokjin goodbye and departed for the care facility. Jimin needed to pass more time, and he didn’t mind spending a couple hours with the pups.

It was a chilly day despite the gleaming sun overhead. Fallen leaves blew through the open expanse of the territory, swirls of orange and red fluttering past them.

Approaching the familiar building, Jimin noticed Taehyung’s coworker, Go Taeseob, stepping out. He was pulling his coat up around his neck and watching his step as he descended the stairs.

“Hi, Taeseob,” Jimin greeted politely. He didn't know the omega very well, but he saw him enough in passing.

Taeseob perked up, smiling when his gaze landed on Jimin. “Hi, Jimin,” he said, sweet and soft-spoken as ever. “I’m glad you’re here. I actually meant to go find you today.”

“Really? What a nice coincidence, then.”

Taeseob hummed, rifling in his pockets until he found something. He pulled out a bracelet comprised of smooth, white and gray stones. “Here,” he offered. “I made it for you.”

“Oh,” Jimin said simply, thoroughly surprised. He and Taeseob weren’t exactly friends, but Jimin didn’t see anything wrong with the randomly kind gesture. Maybe the omega knew it was his birthday? “Thank you,” he eventually uttered, accepting the gift.

Taeseob’s eyes widened when Jimin grasped the bracelet. He floundered for words, looking between the small item and Jimin himself. He eventually nodded, then scurried past with a shy smile.

Taehyung was unusually silent at his side.

“What?” Jimin said, turning to his friend.

Taehyung’s lips twitched up momentarily. He reeled himself back in. “Nothing,” he said, voice evidently strained.

“What?” Jimin repeated in genuine confusion. “Tae!” He whined, following along as Taehyung continued on toward the door.

☽○☾

Jimin was helping a pup build a tower out of wood blocks when Yoongi arrived. He opened the door quietly, lingering in the entryway as he spotted Jimin not far off. Jimin was smiling wide, showing the pup how to place a block without the entire structure shaking. The pup watched him, totally absorbed in Jimin’s slow words and gentle instructions.

Yoongi leaned into the doorframe, donning a soft smile of his own. It took Jimin quite a while to notice Yoongi’s presence at all. Only when a breeze blew Yoongi’s scent into the room did Jimin sit up and glance over.

Their eyes met, Jimin somewhat surprised to find Yoongi idling there so silently. The pup continued stacking despite Jimin’s distraction. Jimin’s heart stuttered at Yoongi’s expression, knowing almost immediately what was running through the alpha’s head—Jimin, hunched over and playing with a pup that looked unmistakably like them.

Maybe their morning exchange had gotten to both their heads.

“Hey,” Jimin finally greeted, tone gentle.

“Hey. You ready to go?”

Jimin shifted around, searching for Taehyung. The omega currently had his hands full, trying to chase after one pup while another clung to his leg.

“Tae!” Jimin called.

“Yeah?”

“You gonna be okay if I head out?”

“Yeah!” He shouted, voice tense. “Yongsun should be here any minute.”

“Alright,” Jimin replied, albeit skeptically. “See you tonight.”

“Uh huh,” Taehyung said distractedly, turning to try to grab the pup on his leg.

Yoongi arched a brow at Taehyung and opened the door for Jimin, following him out.

The sun was low in the sky, Yoongi’s eyes roving over Jimin as he readjusted the fur on his shoulders. “You don’t wear that one often,” Yoongi said, threading their fingers together when Jimin was finished.

“Mm. Don’t wanna risk ruining it,” Jimin replied.

They set out on a path toward the northern end of the settlement, where the clearing sloped into a short hill. Hyunjae and Sooyun lived up at the top, away from the bustle of the rest of the pack. Jimin didn’t wander over that direction much, the cabin too far off his usual path.

Jimin swung their hands back and forth as they walked, steps light. Yoongi squinted down at Jimin’s arm when something caught his eye. He raised their clasped hands up, observing the simple bracelet on Jimin’s wrist.

“Where’d you get this?” He asked.

“Taeseob gave it to me,” Jimin said casually.

“Omega Taeseob?”

“Yeah.”

“Was it, like... a birthday gift?”

“I think so? He didn’t really say much. Just that he made it for me,” Jimin said.

Yoongi slowed his pace, smirk pulling at the corner of his lips. “Jimin,” he enunciated. “This is a courting gift.”

“What?” Jimin gaped. “No, he...” Jimin paused as it dawned him. “Shit,” he muttered. “That’s why he looked so surprised when I accepted it.”

Yoongi shook his head, amazed and baffled. “You are astoundingly oblivious when it comes to these things.”

“I just thought he was being nice,” Jimin whined. “I wouldn’t have taken it if I’d known!”

Yoongi snickered and brought their hands closer, kissing Jimin’s knuckles. “Oh, you precious pup,” he murmured, wholly endeared.

“You’re not mad?” Jimin said sullenly.

“Of course not. You’re absolutely clueless, Minie. It’s adorable.”

Jimin pouted at him, backing away when Yoongi leaned in to kiss him. “Don’t tease me.”

“Do you want me to be jealous, Min?” Yoongi huffed.

“No,” Jimin sulked. “Honestly, I’m just surprised that you’re not scenting me.”

“Don’t worry, pup. I’ll make sure to scent you tonight,” he smirked.

Jimin ducked his head and blushed.

They began ascending the hill, following the worn path up to the Parks’ front door. They just arrived at the top of the steps when the door swung open, Yoongi stumbling back a bit in turn.

“My boys!” Sooyun exclaimed, grinning ear to ear. She rushed forward and engulfed Jimin in a hug, swinging him on his feet as Jimin worked hard to continue breathing. “Happy birthday, my sweet Jiminie. I’m so happy you’re finally here.” There was definitely a passive-aggressive tinge to her tone.

“’Course, Eomma. You didn’t really give me a choice,” Jimin replied with forced pleasantry.

“Oh, baby boy. You always have a choice,” she went on. Sooyun pulled back and patted his flat belly. “So, Jae told me about your visit to the infirmary—”

Jimin knew immediately where this was going. “Eomma,” he said sharply, pursing his lips when she shrugged and moved to embrace Yoongi.

“You can’t blame me for holding out hope,” she said airily.

Sooyun was known for being quiet, yet strong-willed. If she wanted something, she was sure to make it happen. She’d recently made it her personal mission to encourage Jimin to have pups as soon as possible. “I’m getting older,” was her single excuse.

“Sooyun, have you gotten shorter?” Yoongi asked, trying to break the thinly veiled tension between her and her son. He tucked her head under his chin.

“Ha,” she huffed. “I’d say you’ve just grown, but we both know that’s not true.”

Jimin snickered behind a palm. “You were asking for that one, Yoon.”

“Fair,” Yoongi replied, breaking away and smiling down at her all the same.

“Come inside, boys. It’s been colder these past few days,” Sooyun said, ushering them in.

Hyunjae and Jimin’s half-brother, Jihyun, were in the kitchen, eating pieces of meat that they were probably supposed to be cutting. Jihyun caught Sooyun’s eyes, then ducked down guiltily.

“Jae,” Sooyun sighed. “You’re encouraging bad behavior.”

“He’s not harming anyone,” Hyunjae argued lightly.

Sooyun pursed her lips. “You two sit down. I’ll finish cooking.”

They didn’t protest, wandering out toward the living room, Hyunjae kissing Sooyun’s cheek as she passed be.

Jihyun reached out to smack Jimin in his usual sibling greeting. Jimin grabbed his wrist before he could really try. “You’re too slow, kid,” Jimin said, shoving him back a step. “Listen to your Eomma and take a seat.”

“Tightass,” Jihyun muttered.

Jimin knew on instinct that Yoongi was gearing up to comment, so he quickly slapped a palm over his mouth. “No,” Jimin hissed, leveling Yoongi with a very pointed look. “No crude jokes, got it?”

Yoongi glanced away innocently.

“Jimin,” Sooyun called, “Come here for a moment.”

Jimin released Yoongi with a warning in his eyes. Yoongi cleared his throat and turned toward the couch to sit with Hyunjae. “Go on, Min,” he encouraged with a subtle smirk.

Jimin rolled his eyes and retreated to the kitchen, hovering around his mother. “Yeah? Need help?” He asked.

“Oh, not really,” Sooyun said. “Just wanted to know how Yoongi’s been.”

Jimin furrowed his brows. “What do you mean?”

“With the whole human scare going on,” she answered, lowering her voice substantially. “I hope it’s not stressing him out. I know he blames the previous head hunter for what happened last time.”

Jimin exhaled slowly, shoulders slumping and a frown falling on his lips. “I don’t know, it’s... it’s not great. I want to say he’s overreacting, but considering how personal it is for him, I guess I understand?” Jimin bit the inside of his cheek. “It’s just really frustrating to work around. He won’t let us anywhere near where the scents were found, and that’s our best hunting ground. We’re sorta screwed at the moment. We shouldn’t have to deal with this when winter’s so close.”

Sooyun hummed, finishing cutting the meat. “Does he seem withdrawn?”

“Not really,” Jimin replied. “He’s spending as much time with me as usual. So I suppose that’s a good sign.”

Sooyun nodded. “Good,” she murmured. “That’s good. Just... pay attention if things get worse. I don’t want him to feel overwhelmed or, god forbid, responsible for anything that may happen.”

“But that’s the thing, Eomma. I don’t think anything’s gonna happen. No one’s actually seen or faced a human yet. Who knows, maybe they were just passing through this time. Caribou and ducks do that. Who’s to say humans don’t migrate too?”

Sooyun smiled softly. “Mm. Who’s to say.”

They had a shockingly pleasant evening, the subject of conversation failing to waver toward anything too serious. Hyunjae told funny infirmary stories, like the recent instance in which a first-time father rushed in, panicked and scared that there was something wrong with his hiccupping pup.

As Jihyun was fourteen, Sooyun felt it necessary to express how perplexed she was over what he’d present as. “I knew Jimin was an omega since he was a baby. But Jihyun, he—” she shook her head. “He’s not nurturing like an omega, and he’s way too passive to be an alpha. My poor, confusing child.”

“I don’t know, he seemed pretty aggressive when I lived here. Always stealing my damn snacks,” Jimin grumbled, blocking a kick from Jihyun under the table. “Brat,” he hissed.

“I think you two take advantage of having a sibling,” Sooyun chastised. “I know you could get along if you really tried.”

“Really? Because I get the feeling it’d be much better as an only child,” Jimin said lightly, thinking specifically of Seokjin and Taehyung.

“What do you think, Yoongi?” Sooyun prompted.

Yoongi snorted. “Honestly, I didn’t mind growing up without another pup hanging around. I mean, I think Seokjin fit the role well enough when we were young. He was enough of a nuisance.”

Jimin glanced at his mother smugly.

“Hm,” Sooyun said stiffly. “I got along quite well with my brother.”

Jimin’s chewing slowed. He swallowed, trying hard to not choke. Sooyun never mentioned her family, not even in passing. Growing up, Jimin figured their existence had just been erased from Sooyun’s mind completely. He didn’t want to dampen the mood by inquiring further, but god did he desperately want to know more.

Yoongi evidently picked up on the slip too, movements stilling and gaze shifting to Jimin. They exchanged a curious, almost concerned look, before promptly returning to the remnants of their meals, neither willing to push the point.

When they were finished eating, Jihyun and Jimin stood to wash the dishes. Sooyun was occupied with squeezing Yoongi’s cheek and asking him about this season’s rabbit population, of all things.

Jimin and Jihyun stood beside each other, cleaning monotonously. This was the one chore they had to do together growing up, so they learned how to get along for the short duration of it.

“How’s school?” Jimin asked.

“Eh,” was Jihyun’s lackluster response.

“Any wolves you’re interested in?”

“No,” he said simply.

Jimin sighed. “You really are boringly passive.”

“Maybe my beauty and charm lie on the inside, Jimin. You ever considered that?”

“I don't need your sarcasm.”

“And yet you really asked for it.”

They lapsed into silence, Jihyun scrubbing, Jimin drying, their shoulders only barely touching.

“So when are you going to mate Yoongi?”

A plate nearly slipped out of Jimin's grasp, the omega acting fast to catch it and set it aside gently. “When I want to,” he said roughly.

“Do you still like him?”

Jimin gaped. “Of course I do.”

“Then why—”

“Because it’s a big decision, alright Jihyun? You want me to make the same mistakes as Eomma?”

Jihyun stilled, staring down at the soapy water swirling down the drain. “That’s harsh.”

“It's not—I didn’t mean it that way. Not with that tone,” Jimin said, much quieter. “I just meant that I don’t want to dive into it. People act like I’m not still young, but I am. I have so much of my life ahead of me. I shouldn’t feel pressured to tie myself down just because I’m an omega. You ever notice how people don’t ask alphas when they’re gonna hurry up and mate? Jaejae was twenty-five when she and Eomma mated. And literally no one gave a shit.”

Jihyun continued scrubbing. “Yeah, I guess you’re right.” He passed a cup over to Jimin, movement slower than before. “But like, out of genuine curiosity, how long do you think an alpha would wait? I’m not saying Yoongi would run off and find someone new. But do you think if you made them wait long enough they’d give up?”

Jimin sighed, expression tired. “I don’t know. I guess some alphas would, if all they want is a partner to pop out pups. But Yoongi loves me, and that’s... that’s all that has to matter.”

☽○☾

The night sky was a vibrant blanket of stars overhead once Jimin and Yoongi began their walk back to the omega dorm. Yoongi held his hand, Jimin swinging them back and forth once again in content silence.

Jimin leaned into him amidst a sudden chill breeze, cheek pressed to Yoongi’s shoulder. “Do you think I could get back to hunting tomorrow?” He asked.

Yoongi hummed. “Depends.”

“On what?” Jimin chuckled, a little tipsy after an hour by the fire accompanied by wine.

“If you feel up to it.”

“I will,” Jimin said, considering Yoongi’s words after another moment. “This situation is annoying, but I can make the most of it, Yoongi. I’m no amateur.”

Yoongi pressed his nose to Jimin’s temple. “I know. You’re strong and capable—”

“Yoongi,” Jimin groaned.

“—And whiny as hell,” Yoongi finished with a chuckle. “And I love you,” he said clearly, tone much more serious.

They slowed as they approached the dorm, the grounds before the building flooded with light spilling through the bedrooms’ windows.

Jimin buried his shy smile against Yoongi’s coat. Yoongi played with Jimin’s fingers as they lingered near the front steps, the two merely idling as they stalled for more time.

“You can come in,” Jimin suggested quietly.

Yoongi shook his head, expression soft. “I think I’ll go home for once, sleep in the cabin I worked so hard to build.”

Jimin snickered briefly, sound dying in his throat as Yoongi’s gaze remained heavy on him.

“You could live there too, y’know. If you wanted.”

Jimin leaned back to look up at the alpha, lips parted. “I...” he cut himself off. “I know,” he managed to say, voice weak. Jimin hesitated, staring down at their twined hands. “How long do you think that offer will stand?” Jimin eventually whispered.

“As long as it needs to,” Yoongi said firmly.

Jimin’s heart melted at the unshakable sincerity within that simple statement. He let go of Yoongi’s hand so he could wrap his arms around the alpha’s shoulders, leaning into him to meet his lips in a gentle kiss. Yoongi cupped Jimin’s cheek, thumb caressing the blushing skin.

Yoongi broke away to move down to Jimin’s neck, kissing him lightly until he reached the juncture of Jimin's neck and shoulder. He began to suck, tongue laving over the reddening spot each time he nipped.

Jimin sighed, lashes fluttering shut as Yoongi scented and marked him.

When Yoongi was finished, leaving a dark bruise against Jimin’s skin, he nosed back up to nuzzle against Jimin, inhaling their combined scents with a content grumble deep in his chest.

Jimin’s knees were weak by the time Yoongi released him. Yoongi stepped back, glancing behind him in the direction of the familial cabins.

Jimin inhaled deeply, trying to steady himself despite his racing heart and foggy mind.

“Goodnight, Jimin,” Yoongi said gently.

Jimin huddled into the fur draped over his shoulders, nodding. “Night,” he murmured, voice swallowed by the cold evening.

Chapter Text

On a spring morning nine years ago, Min Sanghee and Min Daejung did not return home from a hunting trip. There was little sign of unusual activity, only traces of foreign scents on the edge of their territory days prior. No distress call from either wolf on the day of. The couple set out alone as they often did, leaving their son to be with his friends without so much as a goodbye.

The pack sent out a search party before evening fell, the Mins already missing for eight hours. The pair were considered the best hunters in the pack. A trip like this shouldn’t have lasted more than a few hours.

When the search party left, Sooyun went looking for Yoongi. She found him and Jimin by the stream at the northern end of their territory, tossing rocks and trying to shove each other into the cold water.

“Yoongi,” Sooyun said breathlessly, meeting Yoongi’s wide-eyed gaze. “The pack’s looking for your parents.”

Yoongi faced her completely, dropping the pebble in his grasp. “They’re not back yet?”

Yoongi was fourteen at the time, only a year away from presenting. Yet in that moment, with fear creeping into his expression, Jimin thought he looked very much like a child—helpless and terrified.

“No. It… it could be nothing,” Sooyun said quietly. “But I’d feel better if you came home with us until we hear back.”

To the entire pack’s dismay, however, it wasn’t nothing. While the young boys sat by the Park’s fireplace, Jimin casting worried glances toward Yoongi every minute, the group of hunters made it to the edge of their territory.

The wolves who returned would later describe the foreign scent as permeating the entire area. It smelled nothing of wolf, yet also not any other animal either. The pack had never encountered humans before, only heard nightmarish tales of the destruction they left in their wake. The hunters realized, with dread deep in their veins, that this scent must surely belong to the fabled humans.

Shrouded in the blanket of the night and the heavy mask of human, the search team did not immediately find Daejung’s body. When the wolves did eventually stumble upon the corpse, though, they were struck with horror. The killing wound was a hole in the alpha’s skull, definitely not caused by a bite or kick. The humans had weapons previously unheard of—startlingly deadly in their own right.

The hunters couldn’t wrap their head around how anything took down two strong, experienced alphas. Yet here was the proof all the same.

There was another pool of blood by Daejung’s body, the scent of it unmistakably Sanghee’s. As for the wolf herself, she was never found again. Although none would admit it, many assumed the alpha was dead too, body taken by the humans for whatever purpose.

With only his father to bury, Yoongi never truly got closure.

In the span of a day, he was suddenly left without a family. Sooyun pleaded for him to move in with the Parks, let her act as his mother in the absence of his real parents. Yoongi quietly refused, deciding to continue living in his parents’ house alone until he presented, when he promptly left for the alpha dorm.

The wake was grim. An unusually cloudy day in the middle of spring. There were two graves marked, one body buried. Yoongi stared at the graves dully as the pack alpha gave a eulogy for the respected hunters. Jimin suspected Yoongi didn’t hear a word of it.

Sooyun held Yoongi throughout the wake, arms around his waist in a warm embrace. She tried holding back her tears for his sake. Jimin wanted to be with them, hugging Yoongi too, holding his hand, something. Yet Hyunjae had told him it was best to give grieving wolves space.

Hyunjae held her sons close, concern for both Sooyun and Yoongi evident on her features. The entire pack, circled around the fresh graves, were sniffling or sobbing. Jimin stood quietly, tears streaking down his cheeks freely.

Yoongi was frozen for most of the eulogy, entirely stoic, perhaps still in shock. Towards the end, however, Sooyun cracked and released a choked sob. Yoongi broke right after, inhaling a quivering breath, then hiccupping as he began to cry. He turned around in Sooyun’s embrace, clinging to the omega tightly as sobs finally wracked his body.

☽○☾

Jimin’s hunting team returned with four rabbits. It was a measly offering in comparison to their usual batch of kills, Jimin and Jungkook depositing them in the shed with mirrored sighs. As Hoseok left to shift and change, Jungkook sprawled out in the open grass, basking under warm sunrays.

Jimin approached him, still in his wolf form, and flopped down. Jimin nosed at his ear, nipping it, then leaned away when Jungkook growled. Jimin nudged him, only pushing the alpha slightly. Jungkook whipped his head up, teeth snapping at Jimin. Jimin scampered around him, egging him on.

“You must be really bored,” Jungkook said through their mental link, sitting up anyway. He nipped at Jimin’s flank, chasing after Jimin who barked and ran.

“Don’t run into anyone!” Hoseok yelled as the younger wolves dashed off.

Jimin hopped in delight as he gained distance between himself and Jungkook, teasing the alpha for falling behind. Taehyung was leaving the care facility when he spotted the wolves bounding around the open area, the two bumping into each other whenever they got too close.

“I wanna play!” Taehyung exclaimed, already disrobing.

Jungkook stopped and stared at Taehyung, distracted enough for Jimin ram into him and knock the alpha off his feet. Jungkook quickly regained his footing, snapping back to attention and grabbing Jimin by the scruff of his neck. Taehyung shifted, his light wolf dashed toward them, tackling Jungkook back down and forcing him to release his hold on Jimin.

They teamed up against Jungkook, Taehyung nipping at his legs each time he tried to get up. Jimin pressed his front paws on Jungkook’s flank, holding him down somewhat victoriously. Jungkook wriggled around meanwhile, attempting to gain footing, although Jimin suspected he wasn’t putting much force into the effort. He didn’t really risk hurting Taehyung much these days.

Jimin would’ve been laughing at Jungkook’s tired huffs if he was in his human form. Instead, he bared his teeth playfully, jumping to land weightily back on him.

“I forfeit, you win,” Jungkook said.

“What? You never admit defeat,” Taehyung replied, straightening up to watch the alpha go still beneath him.

“Sun’s too warm. Would rather nap.”

“He’s not wrong,” Jimin said, stepping off of Jungkook and sitting down. Wind ruffled through his fur. Jimin laid his ears flat and shut his eyes.

“Fine,” Taehyung conceded, laying down and scooting in close to Jungkook. He licked at his jaw, then down to groom the fur sticking up around his neck.

He scented Yoongi’s approach before he felt the large palm on his head, fingertips massaging Jimin’s scalp. “What’re you doing?” He asked.

Jimin couldn’t communicate with him unless Yoongi was also in his wolf form, so he merely glanced up at Yoongi, then tilted his head toward Jungkook and Taehyung’s rather idle selves.

“What? Sunbathing?” He chuckled. “You guys should go eat some lunch while there’s still food out.”

Jimin reached out to poke Jungkook with his paw. “Yoongi’s right. I'm hungry.”

“I’d rather sleep.”

“No, you wouldn’t,” Taehyung corrected. “You’re gonna be complaining in an hour if you skip lunch.”

“Wow, you know me so well.”

Yoongi patted Jimin’s head. “Get dressed. I’ll see you guys up there.”

Jungkook struggled to heave himself up as Yoongi walked away. Taehyung snorted and stepped back, watching the alpha try to lift his larger body off the soft ground. Taehyung walked off to collect the clothes he’d discarded in the grass while Jimin ran to the side of the shed, shifting and changing with practiced ease.

It was oddly warm enough for him to need one coat that day, all his furs tucked away neatly at home. Jungkook only had a simple shirt on. He claimed he naturally ran hot, garnering an eye roll from Taehyung.

They set off toward the dining hall together, Taehyung begging Jungkook to carry him on his back until the alpha inevitably gave in. Taehyung swung his legs out happily, arms locked around Jungkook’s shoulders. He blew on Jungkook’s ear, cackling as the alpha squirmed, having to readjust his grip on Taehyung’s legs.

“I can and will drop you,” Jungkook warned.

“Be gentle to my bum,” Taehyung pouted.

Jimin snorted in dry amusement and walked ahead of them, stepping into the chatter of the dining hall first. He noticed a congregation of hunters at one table, Hyejin and Wheein sitting with another team.

Hyejin whistled as she noticed them, gesturing the three over.

Jimin wasn’t exactly fond of the team they were chatting with. They may be led by the calm omega Chunhei, but the alpha Kangdae did most of the talking.

Sure enough, Kangdae had something to say as he looked Jimin up and down.

“Hey Jimin, how’s the delicate paw doing?” Kangdae asked cockily, brushing back his meticulously cared for hair.

Probably one of the most annoying things about Kangdae was that Jimin had trained with the alpha, shadowing Chunhei’s team before he was assigned to Hoseok’s. While Kangdae figured he was familiar enough with Jimin to have the right to tease, Jimin also knew him well enough to decently retort.

“I’m not sure you’re one to talk,” Jimin said smoothly, tilting his head and meeting Kangdae’s gaze head-on. “Heard from Yoongi you guys requested the spots closest to the lake. Y’know, with the sandy ground and soft foliage. Sounds to me like you’ve got quite the advantage for your delicate paws.”

That drew a snicker out of Chunhei and the new alpha girl beside her. Jimin bit back a smirk as Kangdae nodded in defeat. “You got me there, Park.”

“What? That’s it?” Taehyung butted in, sliding off Jungkook's back. “I remember your tongue having a much sharper edge to it. Have you shockingly matured over time, Kangdae?”

“Ah, you caught me,” Kangdae shrugged. He tapped at the mating mark on his neck. “Had to settle eventually. But what about you, Tae? Still sleeping around?”

Taehyung grimaced. Their pack wasn’t exceptionally large, so Kangdae had surely noticed Taehyung’s courtship with Jungkook.

Jimin almost snapped for real, knowing how much Taehyung regretted his early years after presenting. While Jimin waited for Yoongi to have a heat partner, Taehyung found reprieve in multiple alphas, many of them older and uninterested in actually mating the young omega. It still ate at Jimin’s nerves that Kangdae was one of them.

“We’re gonna go eat now,” Jungkook said clearly, a new tension in his jaw. He wrapped an arm around Taehyung’s shoulders, steering the irate omega around.

Jimin saw Chunhei smack Kangdae’s arm before turning away himself.

They found Yoongi by the food laid out, the alpha talking with Namjoon. Jimin quickly gathered his meal and moved to find a seat, somewhere preferably far from those hunters, when Yoongi grabbed him by his hip, nose going straight to his neck.

“You okay?” He murmured, obviously scenting Jimin’s distress.

“Your teammates hang out with dicks sometimes,” Jimin grumbled, relaxing into Yoongi’s touch.

“Do I need to scold someone?”

Jimin sighed, shaking his head. “No. I’ve just remembered why Kangdae annoys me so much.”

“You remember that’s why I reassigned you?”

Jimin chuckled. “Yeah. That team was a damn headache.”

Jimin saw Jungkook and Taehyung taking a seat, Taehyung leaning on his shoulder, Jungkook’s hand running through his hair soothingly. Yoongi guided them toward the other two, settling across from them.

“Eat,” he gently commanded, observing Jimin’s troubled expression.

Jimin complied, eating slowly.

Laughter echoed from the other side of the large room, bouncing off the high ceilings and drilling right into Jimin’s skull. He knew those laughs, the voices unmistakably Kangdae’s and Hyejin’s. The others in their group were joining in, albeit to a less obnoxious degree. Jimin saw the hunters making furtive glances at Taehyung. Taehyung surely felt the heat of the attention on his back.

Jimin pushed his food around, mostly focused on how Taehyung cut his meat, twirled the knife between his fingers, repeat. Jimin wouldn’t say Taehyung was unstable per se. Rather, he was very emotional—sensitive, some may say. And he tended to act when he was riding a wave of anything too strong. Such as burning anger, for example.

“He whimpered like a bitch,” Kangdae cackled.

Jungkook’s jaw clenched. Taehyung gripped the knife harder, knuckles white. Jimin was worried he'd have to restrain at least one of them.

“I mean, it’s Taehyung,” Kangdae’s voice filtered over once again.

Taehyung stood, chair screeching as he pushed it across the hardwood.

“Tae,” Jimin said quickly, rushing to follow after him as the omega strode toward the hunters’ table, weapon still in hand.

Taehyung halted in front of the oblivious group, raising the knife and stabbing the blade into the table, a mere inch from Kangdae’s hand. The group fell silent, all conversation cutting off abruptly. Jimin halted in his tracks behind Taehyung, momentarily relieved he hadn’t stabbed anyone.

Taehyung leaned in close to Kangdae’s shocked face, palm still on the knife’s hilt. “Keep my name out of your dirty mouth,” Taehyung snarled.

Jimin wrenched his friend away, holding the seething omega to his chest. “Let’s go,” Jimin whispered in his ear, tone urgent and firm. Jimin forcefully turned him around, not bothering to gauge the rest of the hunters’ reactions.

They swiftly exited the dining hall, Jimin keeping them walking until they were well past the doors. Jungkook jogged after them, shaken by Taehyung’s outburst. He pulled Taehyung from Jimin’s embrace, wrapping him in his own arms.

“I’ll fuckin’ cut them,” he muttered as Taehyung sank into him.

“They’re not worth the time,” Jimin said, shaking his head. “Just write that alpha off as the trash he is and leave them be.”

Jimin noticed Taehyung’s hands grasped tight to the back of Jungkook’s shirt, hold an anchor for his quivering body. Jimin bit the inside of his cheek, resisting the urge to walk back in there and sock Kangdae right in the face. It wouldn’t be the first time he hit a smug alpha.

Yoongi finally came up behind them, ruffling his hair and frowning in irritation. “I know it’s not much, but I assigned them tomorrow’s late shift. Maybe they’ll learn a lesson about being dicks to their fellow pack-mates when they’re out hunting after the sun’s set.”

“A good punch may have done the trick too,” Jimin replied grimly as Yoongi wrapped an arm around his hip.

“What kind of chaos would this pack be in if we responded to every conflict with violence?”

“I don’t know, Yoon. But I have a feeling I’d be running this place,” Jimin muttered.

Yoongi sighed. “I think everyone just needs to go home and get some rest. Sleep off the anger and deal with the rest later.”

“The sex was terrible,” Taehyung mumbled, voice further muffled by Jungkook’s chest.

They all looked at him with surprise.

“Just saying,” he continued, even quieter.

Jimin huffed, a semblance of a laugh. He stepped forward and threaded his fingers through the omega’s hair. “I love you, you ridiculous boy,” Jimin said. “How about we go take that nap?”

☽○☾

Jimin went out on a hunting trip early the next morning, returning rather successfully only a couple hours later. The day had barely begun and Jimin was at a loss as how to fill it now. As he was entering the omega dorm, Taehyung was on his way out, stumbling and fussing with a coat.

“Hey, Tae,” Jimin greeted, wide-eyed at Taehyung’s hurry.

Taehyung was visibly startled, just noticing Jimin’s presence. “Hey, Chim. Overslept, late for work. Gotta go,” He rambled, still walking to the door.

“You think I could hang out over there today?” Jimin called.

“Yeah!” Taehyung shouted, not bothering to turn back to answer. “Come by whenever.” Then he was out of sight.

Jimin hummed, heading to his room to freshen up and change his clothes. Jimin stepped in and frowned at his unmade bed and the furs that had accumulated on the floor recently. Jimin knew he should probably clean up at some point. Yoongi tended to point out how messy Jimin was at any opportunity.

“Jimin, you know it’s going to be hard for me to live with someone who can’t manage something as simple as making their bed every morning,” Yoongi often chastised.

Jimin sighed, knowing he didn’t have a lack of time as an excuse on this particular day. He slumped his shoulders and began picking up the scattered furs, tucking them against his arm and walking to the dresser to fold and put them away.

He noticed the bracelet on the top of the dresser, unworn since that first day. Damn, Jimin should really talk to Taeseob while he was in the process of cleaning up his messes.

Jimin stored his furs and quickly pulled the sheets up his bed, making it very lazily. Yoongi could complain all he wanted later, but at least Jimin did it.

Changed and ready to go, Jimin grabbed the bracelet, pocketed it, and headed back outside. He took a detour at the dining hall, hoping Taeseob would be lingering around. He didn’t really have a clue what the omega’s schedule was.

Instead, Jimin ran into Hoseok—literally. The alpha was careening out of the dining hall much too fast, and the hunters collided with a simultaneous “oof.”

“Oh, hey Jimin,” Hoseok greeted sunnily, holding the omega by his shoulders to steady him.

“Hey, uh, have you seen Taeseob around?” Jimin asked, glancing around Hoseok.

“Who?”

“Go Taeseob. Our pack isn’t that big, Seok. Y’know, he’s just a tiny bit taller than me. Long face, cute droopy eyes.”

“Hmm,” Hoseok dragged out, squinting his eyes. “That guy?”

He pointed out behind Jimin. Jimin whipped around, finding the omega on a path to the dorm. “Oh,” Jimin uttered. “Taeseob!” He shouted, the omega jumping a bit at the noise. He turned toward them. Jimin beckoned him over.

Hoseok fell silent, staring at Taeseob as he drew near.

“Hi, um, I’ve been meaning to talk to you,” Jimin began, pulling on the nicest tone he could manage.

“Okay,” Taeseob said breezily. He glanced up at Hoseok, smiled, and waved.

Hoseok blinked owlishly. A bit unusual for him, Jimin noted.

“So... I really do appreciate the gift you gave me,” Jimin said slowly. “But I’ll admit I can be pretty clueless. I actually didn’t realize it was a courting gift until Yoon—someone pointed it out to me.”

Taeseob’s lips parted, and he nodded in understanding. “Wow, yeah. That makes so much more sense. I was really surprised you accepted it.”

“So you know I’m being courted by Yoongi?”

“Yeah,” Taeseob said airily.

“Then why—"

“Because I thought it was at least worth a try,” Taeseob said with a shrug. “My parents always say that you’ll never succeed if you don’t just give things a chance.” He nodded to his own words sagely.

Jimin gaped for a moment. “Ah,” he mumbled simply. “So you’re not going to be too hurt that I have to turn you down?”

Taeseob smiled. “It’s okay. I get it.” He noticed Jimin fishing the bracelet out of his pocket. “No, you don’t have to give it back, Jimin. We’ll just call it a friendship gift instead of a courting one.”

Jimin paused, a bit overwhelmed by the sweet omega. Jimin fiddled with the bracelet’s stones. “Alright,” he said eventually. “Thank you, then.”

“Of course,” Taeseob replied, swaying on his heels. He ducked his head a bit and lowered his voice. “If you ever do break your courtship with Hunter Min, though, I hope you know where to find me.”

Jimin released a breathless chuckle, shaking his head. “I don’t really see that happening, but thanks for the offer.”

Hoseok cleared his throat then, surprising both of them. “Hi, I’m Hoseok,” the alpha said rather loudly.

Taeseob blinked a few times, trying to regain his composure. “Go Taeseob,” he responded, grinning at the alpha brightly.

“You have a very pretty smile,” Hoseok blurted.

Jimin clamped a hand over his mouth to avoid breaking out into laughter. Hoseok, shy and awkward? Unheard of. Yet here he was, bumbling like an enamored idiot.

“Sorry, um,” Hoseok stammered, searching for a change of subject. “It’s been a while, but I’m pretty sure I recognize your name?”

“Right. We might have been in secondary schooling for a year,” Taeseob said. “I think I remember when you presented.”

“I’m shocked I’m not as familiar with you,” Hoseok admitted.

”Well, I have grown up a bit since we last shared the same circles,” Taeseob chuckled.

Jimin coughed into his fist, breaking their conversation. “Well, I’ve gotta get going,” he said in a mockingly casual voice. “But I’m glad you two are getting on so well.” Jimin stepped back and patted Hoseok’s shoulder, gripping him tightly for emphasis. “See you guys later, yeah?”

“Uh huh,” Hoseok agreed dumbly, barely paying any attention to Jimin.

Jimin rolled his eyes and walked away, back on his path to the care facility.

They were some older pups out in the field, running around in their wolf forms as a couple adults watched over them. Jimin recognized Byulyi, another omega and Yongsun’s mate. He waved at her and she returned the gesture. Then a pup bit the tail of another and she ran after them for a scolding.

Jimin snickered at the scene, attention lingering on a group of pups rolling around in the grass, a little white one getting stains on their fur. Jimin briefly wondered what Yoongi and his pups would look like. Would they have blonde fur like Jimin’s, or black like Yoongi’s? Maybe something entirely different. Jimin sort of hoped at least one them inherited the silver fur of his mother.

He continued walking, passing the pups until he was closer to the forest. Out by the tree line were some hunters, freshly shifted out of their wolf forms and hanging around their usually occupied spot. Jimin saw Chunhei first, then frowned and looked away, fully intending to ignore them completely.

“Jimin!”

The omega’s shoulders tensed. He stopped and sighed, already hearing someone jogging up to him. Jimin simply waited, knowing Kangdae’s scent the moment it reached him. Jimin pursed his lips as the alpha halted at his side.

“Hey,” Kangdae said.

“What do you want?” Jimin asked tersely, eyes still on his destination ahead.

“Just... to sort of apologize about yesterday—”

“Sort of?” Jimin echoed with a dry laugh. “You’re either in it or you’re not. Are you just trying to get back on Yoongi’s good side?”

“I don’t think I’ve ever been on Yoongi’s good side,” Kangdae admitted.

Jimin tilted his head, finally glancing at him through a narrowed gaze. He wasn’t wrong.

“Look, Jimin. Could you maybe tell Taehyung I didn’t mean to upset him?”

“I’m pretty sure any mention of you would be upsetting enough,” Jimin replied, noting Kangdae’s unusually tense expression.

“He looked really pissed, alright? And I’d rather not have Jeon at my throat for the rest of time. So do me a favor and tell them both I didn’t mean anything by it all.”

Jimin felt his muscles tense, pissed at the flat-out lie of it. Kangdae was looking for a reaction yesterday. Whether or not that anticipated reaction was from Taehyung, it didn’t matter—the alpha meant offense by the comments all the same. Jimin inhaled slowly and counted to ten, telling himself it was less trouble to bite back with words.

“You know what, Kang?” Jimin began, voice clear and even. “I get it. You’re insecure. You mated late because no omega could stand to fuck you more than once. You haven’t been promoted in nearly a decade, so you pick on the people who are actually enjoying their lives. So maybe I have just a smidge of sympathy for you. Because, really, you could turn that bitterness into something productive if you actually wanted to.”

Jimin watched him gape, saw the anger flickering behind his closed expression. Jimin leaned in, liked how uncomfortable the alpha seemed with the sudden lack of personal space. It probably felt suffocating. God, did Jimin hope it felt suffocating.

“But let’s get one small thing straight,” Jimin murmured, looking him in the eye. “If you ever pull that shit with Taehyung again, I will cut your tongue out. And we both know damn well Yoongi won’t stop me.”

Kangdae mustered the resolve to step back, posture stiff despite his best efforts to pull on a blasé smile. “Damn, Park. You’re the scariest bitch out here.”

Jimin rolled his shoulders, loosening the stressed muscles. He looked Kangdae up and down with the same intention as the alpha had done to Jimin the day before. “Don’t you dare forget it. Have fun fumbling around in the dark woods this evening,” Jimin stated, returning his attention to his original path. He walked away, lacking the patience to wait for whatever response was scalding Kangdae’s tongue.

Jimin managed to compose himself before reaching the care facility. He didn’t want to share his mood with Taehyung or any of the pups. Pups were very keen to distressed scents. Jimin exhaled heavily before stepping inside, pulling on a smile as he spotted Taehyung on a large rug, one pup clinging to his side while another played with a toy duck.

Jimin shut the door behind himself and moved to sit close to Taehyung. “How are things going?” He asked lightly.

“Well, this one’s been stuck to me for a half hour, so I’d say pretty normal,” Taehyung replied. “He really likes my scent for some reason.”

“You do smell good,” Jimin said with a shrug.

“Mm,” Taehyung mumbled. “I think I need a day off, but I’m pretty sure my next one will just be during the harvest festival.”

The harvest festival was a yearly communal event celebrating the autumn’s harvest. It was typically in late October or early November. Always before the first snow. It was quite the social event for young, unmated wolves.

“You can’t get anyone to cover a shift?”

“We’re sort of low on staff this year. A slight influx in pups and a couple elders retiring. Hopefully we get some new trainees soon when more wolves present,” Taehyung sighed. “Right now we’re averaging three pups to one adult, which is fine if they aren’t babies and toddlers.”

“But these guys are precisely babies and toddlers,” Jimin nodded in understanding. “Well, at least you’ve got the harvest festival to look forward to.”

Taehyung hummed. “Dancing, a warm bonfire, so much food.”

“And drinking,” Jimin added dreamily.

Taehyung merely watched the pup with the duck toy. She spun around and held the duck high above her head, making brief quacking noises.

“Just two more weeks of chaos,” Taehyung chuckled to himself, although it sounded rather dry.

“Do you guys get pregnancy leave?” Jimin asked.

“Why?” Taehyung said slowly, distractedly playing with the hair of the pup at his side.

“Just curious. Hunters do, but since this isn’t really a dangerous job, I wasn’t sure. Seems like it’d be a lot to handle yourself and pups running around.”

“I think it’s kinda up to you,” Taehyung said, brows drawn. “One of the omegas who trained me hung around until she was eight months pregnant. Her coworkers kept insisting she should take time off and rest, but she said no just about up to the end. She was a tough one.”

“Huh,” Jimin muttered, impressed.

The spinning pup ahead of them lost her footing. She fell on her bum and sat in silence for a long moment. Then she glanced up at Taehyung, eyes wide as she gauged his reaction, seemingly deciding if she was supposed to be crying.

“You’re fine,” Taehyung said gently, making no effort to reach out for her.

She blinked at him, and glanced down at her lap. She began her quacking again.

“They rarely get upset unless they know they’ll get a reaction out of you,” Taehyung said. “Just a tip.”

Jimin snickered. “I’ll keep that in mind.”

Another pup waddled over, blanket in hand. He rubbed at his eyes sleepily, paying no mind to Taehyung as he walked straight toward Jimin. The pup plopped himself right in Jimin’s lap, curling against his chest as if he belonged there.

Jimin wasn’t quite sure how to react. “Alright then,” he said simply, glancing up to meet Taehyung’s muffled grin.

“I guess he wanted to sleep,” Taehyung said mirthfully. “Maybe you’re better with pups than you thought.”

☽○☾

The sun was just setting when Taehyung’s shift ended. Jimin had yet to hear from Yoongi that day, so he figured he’d just head home with Taehyung, perhaps settle in and play a game. Or even cuddle.

Yongsun was hanging back to stay with the remaining few pups until their parents were finished with their own jobs for the day. Jimin helped put away some scattered toys, then went searching for Taehyung’s coat that a pup had dragged off at some point. He found it stashed under a chair with a couple pillows. They must’ve been making some sort of nest or fort.

Jimin met Taehyung at the door. They lingered in the entryway, soaking up the warmth of the building while they waited for Jungkook. The alpha had promised to walk Taehyung back this evening and Taehyung didn’t want to depart without him.

There was soft chatter behind them, Yongsun speaking to a pup in low tones, and an expanse of dark blue spreading out across the territory grounds. They only had to wait a few minutes before they saw Jungkook approach. A smile grew on Taehyung’s lips as his eyes met his alpha’s.

Light from the facility spilled out behind them, yellow casting shadows against the swaying grass, outlining Jimin and Taehyung’s idle forms huddled together in the doorway.

As Jungkook neared the stairs, Jimin adjusted his coat and tucked his hands into the pockets. He nuzzled into the high collar, prepared for the chilly walk ahead of them. Jungkook had just opened his mouth to greet them when a howl split the still air.

A distress call, as clear as they came.

Jungkook’s gaze was still leveled on Taehyung, the alpha’s eyes widening substantially. Jimin’s breath caught in his throat.

A rumbling boom echoed through the forest beyond them, an eerie silence in its wake.

Taehyung’s lips parted, expression pleading as Jungkook’s eyes hardened. The alpha shook his head, decision made. No amount of fear and distress radiating off of Taehyung could break his resolve. Jungkook rushed toward the shadowed forest, shifting quickly and running in the direction of the initial howl.

Jimin swore his heart had stopped. His knees grew weak, a ringing in his ears and a numbness spreading through his limbs. Taehyung clutched at his arm, either holding Jimin back or anchoring himself.

Jimin knew he should leave. He was a hunter, a fighter. The wolves out there—possibly even Yoongi—needed help. Yet Taehyung uttered a single, quivering syllable: “stay.” And Jimin’s remaining strength crumbled.

“Get inside and latch the door,” Jimin said hoarsely.

Jimin pushed Taehyung, the omega unmoving with overwhelming terror. He maneuvered them back into the warmth of the building, wailing pups a dull thrumming in Jimin’s ears.

Outside, the forest was dark and looming.

Jimin heaved the door shut.

Chapter Text

Jimin, Taehyung, and Yongsun sat against the wall opposite the door, pups held tight. Some were still whimpering from the adults’ scents of distress while others had recovered from the scare of the loud boom and were trying to wriggle free.

At least ten minutes had passed since the initial scare. They were simply dwelling in the silence of the aftermath, anxious to hear news from the outside. They couldn’t be sure if anyone was hurt, or what that sound even was in the first place. All Jimin knew was that he had a very bad feeling settled in the deepest pit of his gut.

Jimin had Haeju’s cold nose pressed to his throat while another pup clung to his arm. Yongsun was struggling to keep one in the safety of her lap. She shushed him, trying to coax him down from whatever energy high he was on.

“You guys got any weapons stored around here?”

“Weapons?” Yongsun echoed incredulously. “No, Jimin. We don’t keep hidden weapons around children.”

“Sorry. I’d just... feel better if I had some sort of defense.”

“No predator’s going to make it this far into our territory,” Yongsun muttered. “The alphas will stop them before then.”

Taehyung tensed, reminded of Jungkook, still somewhere out there in the unknown shroud of the night. “Look, can we just not argue. Please? I’m freaked out enough,” Taehyung said.

“I suppose I could shift if I need to,” Jimin muttered.

“You do not need to always be in battle mode!” Yonsun protested.

”Guys,” Taehyung whined, sinking lower.

“Okay, maybe you should be a little grateful you have a hunter in here.”

“Right, as if I haven’t had any battle training.”

“What damage are you gonna do without at least a knife?”

“No damage needs to be done!”

There was an echoing knock on the door, startling an exclamation out of Taehyung. Yongsun and Jimin looked at him pointedly; their presence had just been given away to whoever was outside. “Uh, n-no one’s home,” Taehyung said timidly.

Jimin exhaled very slowly, pinching his brow and mentally preparing himself to get up and shift.

“Tae?” A voice on the other end called.

“Jin!” Taehyung replied in relief, setting the pups in his grasp down carefully and scrambling up to get the door. He unlatched the lock and swung the door open, encompassing Seokjin in a hug. “I’ve never been this happy to see you. What the fuck is going on out there?”

“We’re not entirely sure,” Seokjin replied uneasily. “Jung Wheein returned just a minute ago. She said she was close to where the noise went off, but the distress howl didn’t come from her or Hyejin. We assume it was Chunhei’s group. What we do know is that nothing has advanced further into the territory, so it should be safe for everyone to retreat home.”

“Any word from the alphas and hunters who went out?” Jimin asked.

Seokjin’s expression was somber. “No, sorry. At the very least, there haven’t been any more howls for backup.”

Jimin inhaled unevenly, then nodded. “Alright. So we’re sending the pups home?”

“Yes. I checked the other facilities first, and you’re the only ones that were locked in with pups. We’ll go deliver them now. And then we’ll just have to wait for more news.”

“The waiting is the worst part,” Jimin sighed, helping the other omegas gather up the pups.

Seokjin ran to pick up Haeju first, letting the pup press his nose against his father’s neck.

Jimin felt a constant chill along his spine as they walked the pups to their respective homes, keeping them bundled up against the wind. Taehyung remained by his side throughout, the both of them making constant glances to the empty tree line, hoping for someone to emerge, yet also cautious enough to dread it as well.

When they were done, Yongsun left to find her mate. Seokjin said he would try to keep them updated, but walked away all the same, Haeju on his hip, to reconvene with Namjoon and the elders. Jimin and Taehyung stood on a path between the cabins and the omega dorm, Jimin’s heart aching for answers. He stared out at the woods for a long while, disturbed by the silence that he got in return. Taehyung buried his face against Jimin’s shoulder, shivering.

“Let’s go home,” Jimin whispered. “We’re of no help out here, anyway.”

Jimin couldn’t sleep. He laid in the darkness of his room, door cracked so he could hear anyone entering the dorm, maybe scent the return of one of their alphas. Taehyung was curled into his side, buried under a mound of blankets and furs. His stress had worn him out to the point of actually falling asleep. Jimin watched his chest rise and fall with even breaths.

Jimin found himself staring at the wall, senses on high alert despite the fact that it’d been nearly an hour with no news. It was selfish, he was well aware, but all he wanted to know was that Yoongi was alright. He tried to suppress the fear, knowing that giving it even an inch would lead to him being entirely encompassed by the unending flutter of panic.

Taehyung twitched in his sleep, brows drawn and scent spiking in distress. Jimin shushed him gently, rubbing his back until he calmed once more. Nightmares, Jimin thought bitterly—and probably only the beginning of them.

Taehyung’s body tensed once more. He released a whimpered utterance of “pup.”

“The pups are safe, Taetae,” Jimin muttered, nuzzling into him. “You’re okay.”

Wind whistled against the window. If Jimin closed his eyes and concentrated, he could hear the violent sway of dead leaves and dry branches out past the dorm and across the otherwise quiet grounds.

The front door of the dorm creaked open. Jimin immediately snapped to attention. He stiffened, barely hearing faint footsteps down their hall. Jimin began to sit up, posture rigid and defensive. The newcomer slowed by Jimin’s room. The scent hit Jimin before the door was pushed open further, revealing a figure in the entryway.

“Yoongi,” Jimin breathed, eyes widening and heart stuttering in relief.

Yoongi stepped into the room, kneeling on the mattress as Jimin pushed himself forward, wrapping his arms around the alpha’s shoulders. He buried his nose against Yoongi’s neck, assuring himself this was his Yoongi. He was here, alive.

“Jimin, baby,” he whispered, clinging to Jimin just as tightly.

“I’m sorry I didn’t go out there too.”

“No, no. I’m relieved you stayed,” Yoongi said, kissing his cheek. “So fucking relieved. I assumed you’d just run toward the signal without a thought like so many others did. I got scared when I couldn’t find you. Then Kook told me you stayed back and, god, I could breathe again.”

Jimin pulled away slightly, cupping Yoongi’s cheek. “What was that? Is anyone hurt?”

Yoongi sighed. “We lost a hunter.”

“What?” Jimin gasped. “Who?”

“Kangdae. He was the only casualty.”

Jimin slumped into Yoongi, pressing their foreheads together as he shut his eyes. “Fuck,” Jimin muttered. “How?”

“Chunhei said it was a human. Two of them, really. She and her group were out too far east. Kangdae ran ahead despite Chunhei warning him that something smelled off. He was chasing a buck and wasn’t paying any attention to the warning signs.”

Yoongi paused, glancing down at Taehyung’s still sleeping form.

“He’s fine. Just worried,” Jimin said. “Lay down on my other side. Tell me the rest.”

Yoongi settled next to him, wrapping his arms around Jimin’s waist and tucking the omega’s head under his chin.

“Chunhei said it happened too fast,” Yoongi murmured. “She followed after him, but by the time she reached him he’d already run into a pair of humans. She’s not sure what they were doing, if they had any intention of interacting with us. But of course, finding any sort of trespassers led Kangdae to growl at them. Our wolves didn’t even have time to attack. Chunhei howled for backup. Then one of the humans pulled out some sort of weapon and pointed it at Kangdae. There was the boom, and... a-and a hole through his skull.

“Chunhei, obviously scared and angry, attacked the one who had killed Kangdae while the other ran off. She managed to injure it, but it escaped too. Hyejin said she and Wheein decided to scout their area, Wheein eventually running back to update the pack.

“Hoseok and I were at the shed when we heard the call. We were the first to make it to Chunhei’s team, but too late of course. Other wolves followed soon after. While Chunhei and Hoseok collected Kangdae’s body to bring him back to the pack, I led the rest in scouting the area, making sure the humans were really gone.

“We know they’re not in our territory anymore, but the border reeks of them. We’ll do a more proper search once the sun’s risen.”

“Where’s Kookie now?” Jimin whispered, reminded of Taehyung’s weight against his back.

“Describing the scene to Namjoon. I only filled him in briefly before coming here. Had to make sure you were alright,” Yoongi said, brushing his knuckles over Jimin’s cheek, face somber as he observed the omega.

“Kangdae shouldn’t have been so careless, but... god. No one deserves to die like that,” Jimin said, voice wavering. He nosed into the crook of Yoongi’s neck, inhaling shakily. “How the fuck do we come back from this?”

“I think that the answer, if there is one, has to wait until tomorrow. We’re still processing the aftershocks,” Yoongi uttered. He pressed his lips to Jimin’s temple, touch gentle. “For now we need to be thankful for everyone who made it out fine.”

The front door to the dorm opened once again, a set of frantic footsteps advancing down the hall. Soon enough, Jungkook was poking his head into the room, evidently following the trail of Taehyung’s scent.

“He’s here, Kookie,” Jimin said groggily, pulling away from Yoongi to gesture to Taehyung.

He saw Jungkook’s shoulders slump in relief. The alpha walked over and knelt by the bed, brushing his fingers through Taehyung’s sleep-mussed hair.

“His scent is still distressed,” Jungkook said.

“It’s been a long night,” Jimin replied. “He’ll be fine if you go with him to his room.”

Jungkook nodded. He nudged Taehyung’s shoulder, trying to rouse him gently. “Tae.”

Taehyung’s lashes fluttered and his nose scrunched. “Hm?”

“Let’s go lay down in your room, yeah?”

“Koo—” Taehyung inhaled his scent and opened his eyes fully. “Kookie,” he gasped. He threw his arms around Jungkook’s shoulders and clung to him tight. “You’re alive. You’re—you’re fine, right?”

“Yeah, I’m good,” he quickly assured. “And you?”

“Nothing happened here. Just a bit of panic.”

“I’m glad,” Jungkook breathed. He helped Taehyung sit up and lifted him. Taehyung wrapped his legs around Jungkook’s waist, nose buried against his neck as he inhaled his scent. “Thanks,” he said to Jimin quickly.

“’Course,” Jimin mumbled, tiredness really setting in. He waited until they were out of his room before laying down, letting Yoongi pull him back against his chest once more.

They buried Kangdae in the morning. Yoongi gave a statement to the pack about how Kangdae had died, citing him as a “respected and brave hunter.” Jimin stood motionless, Jungkook and Hoseok on either side of him. All the hunters were, silent—reserved and reeling.

This wasn’t the first wake since Yoongi’s parents, but god did it feel familiar. The difference was that Yoongi no longer had the head hunter to blame. It scared Jimin, knowing Yoongi was probably shouldering the responsibility, somehow finding himself at fault for the mistake of Kangdae and the mercilessness of the humans.

Jimin’s gaze drifted toward Kangdae’s sobbing mate, the woman being held up by her parents. Jimin meant to look away, allow the grieving wolf some privacy, but he lingered on her mating mark. It was faded.

Jimin blinked, startled at the familiarity of the sight. Sooyun’s old mating mark was faded in that exact manner. Jimin had just assumed her mate was left behind, in some other pack far away. The realization that the wolf was dead, however, was entirely new to Jimin. He felt a twinge of frustration and pain over the fact that his mother had never told him.

Jimin averted his eyes back to the plot of open dirt where Kangdae was buried. Namjoon was speaking now, Yoongi returning to their small group, settling between Jimin and Jungkook.

Yoongi’s lips were pressed in a tight line, his jaw tense and scent spiked with something near distress. Regret, maybe guilt. Jimin grasped his hand. They said nothing.

☽○☾

Jimin and Taehyung sat on the latter’s bed, lamplight low amidst the darkness of the room. Jungkook was sprawled out behind them, sleeping deeply. He hadn’t properly rested since the night before.

The patrol many of the hunters went out on turned up nothing new. Any scent of human was in the easternmost sector of their territory. They found no camps or strays. No dead animals or altered terrain. The motive for their presence was still entirely unknown.

“This fucking sucks,” Taehyung muttered. “Kangdae may have been an actual dick, but...”

“But we shouldn’t have to live in fear,” Jimin concluded. “What I don’t understand is why there are humans around in the first place. Are they trying to attack? Because if they are, they’re real slow in getting to us. And if not, well, shouldn’t they know this territory’s taken by the scent?”

“Maybe humans are too stupid to understand scents,” Taehyung shrugged.

Jimin frowned. “How do you survive if you can’t distinguish between scents? You’re just asking for trouble, stumbling into whatever predator may be ahead.”

“They could be the predator, wherever they’re from.”

“Yeah? Well we’re top of the food chain here. And I’m not about to give up that position.”

Taehyung shook his head. “I don’t know how you’re handling this so well. I’m too scared to leave the dorm, for fuck’s sake.”

“I guess I’m trying to rationalize the situation, force it to make some sort of sense. Otherwise I’ll just feel helpless. And god, is that the worst feeling,” Jimin muttered.

Taehyung hummed and picked up Jungkook’s hand, holding it in his lap and tracing the veins. ”It must be terrible for his mate, though. I can’t... I can’t imagine that. Thinking they’re out for a quick hunt, and they don’t come back. Physically, yeah, but not really. You lose so much in just one moment.”

“That kinda thing’s traumatic,” Jimin said in agreement. “Do you think,” Jimin paused, worrying his lip, “Do you think you’d mate again after that?”

Taehyung shrugged. “Maybe if you had time to heal, found anyone that could even compare to your last mate. Personally, I don’t think I could do it. I especially if I had pups with my real—” He cut himself off. “Original mate,” Taehyung corrected.

Jimin stared down at his lap, fiddling with his own fingers. “Tae,” he said softly. Taehyung perked up, startled by Jimin’s shift in tone. “I think my eomma’s first mate is dead.”

“Why do you think that?” He asked.

“I saw Kangdae’s mate’s mark. It was faded like Eomma’s. I shouldn’t be surprised. That could be why she never talked about them, but... it feels wrong not even knowing such a basic thing about my other parent. She tells me nothing, Tae. I don’t really know how to feel.”

“Do you think something bad happened at your old pack? That’s why you had to leave?”

“That would make sense,” Jimin said, brows drawn. “Some sort of conflict, like a fight with another pack. Or even humans.”

“You could try asking her,” Taehyung said quietly.

“You think I haven’t?” Jimin sighed. “She shuts down every time.”

“Maybe it hurts too much to remember,” Taehyung murmured. He brought Jungkook’s hand up to his lips, kissing his palm. “I’m not sure I could stand to talk about it.”

“Not even to your own son?"\” Jimin asked weakly.

“It must be complicated, Jimin,” he said. “You could always keep trying. Let time do its work.”

Jimin exhaled heavily. “Yeah.”

“How’s Yoongi?” Taehyung asked, drawing Jimin away from the past subject.

“Not much better,” Jimin answered. “He talks like he’s responsible. I told him that he did everything right. He told us where we shouldn’t go, and Chunhei’s team disobeyed. The fact that it was a night shift doesn’t change a thing. They should’ve scented danger even if they couldn’t see it.”

“He’s a leader. He’s going to feel at least partially responsible for the death of one of his own.”

“But he shouldn’t,” Jimin protested in frustration. “He should have the mind to understand that none of this is on him.”

“But isn’t that the problem? None of us are in our right minds. Terrifying, inexplicable things are happening. We’re all shaken up and trying to figure out a solution that probably doesn’t actually exist,” Taehyung firmly argued. “None of this would be happening if it weren’t for the humans. That’s the end of it.”

“I need to do something, Tae,” Jimin said weakly. “You may be right, but I hate sitting around. I’ll fight someone if I have to. Shit, I’ll actually start listening to Yoongi for once. We can’t just do nothing.”

Taehyung heaved a sigh. “What do you think it's like for Yoongi, having an omega that wants to fight everyone?”

“Oh, come on. I don’t want to fight everyone.”

“You’ve been real snappish lately. I’d say you’re out for blood,” Taehyung said simply.

Jimin managed a dry laugh. “I thought that was my thing? Angry, small omega.”

“At least you admit to how small you are,” Taehyung shrugged.

Jimin rolled his eyes. He leaned forward to push Taehyung down onto the mattress, gasping as Taehyung grabbed him arm, the two landing in a heap. Jimin laid still on Taehyung’s chest, catching his breath.

Taehyung was silent, gaze focused on the ceiling. “We’re gonna be okay, right?”

“Yeah,” Jimin mumbled. “We’re gonna be okay.”

☽○☾

The pack was quiet. Tension ran thick, especially between sub-groups. Some wolves whispered about what the hunters could have done differently, while others insisted they were only safe because of the hunters. Many parents took time off to stay with their pups, paranoid that danger was around the corner. In the following days, a tangible stress mounted and the pack itself slowed to a near stall.

Namjoon finally told Yoongi he’d like to meet with the hunters as a whole.

Jimin went to dinner with Jungkook and Hoseok the evening of the meeting, the three of them returning from a very cautious and uncomfortable hunting outing. Hoseok jumped at just about every noise. Jimin had kept a constant eye over his shoulder.

They heard commotion from within the dining hall as they approached. Jimin rushed forward as the volume increased, two voices locked in a shouting match. They found Chunhei in the center of a group of hunters, Kangdae’s mate across from her, finger pointed at the omega hunter and lips set in snarl.

“You should have been paying attention!” The mate yelled.

“You really think there was much more I could have done?” Chunhei defended, seething. “I tried to help him!”

“Clearly you're incompetent!”

“Look me in the eye when you say that, bitch,” Chunhei snarled, the usually calm omega snapping under the pressure.

The mate lurched forward, stance set for attack. Jungkook and Hoseok ran past Jimin, pulling the women apart as they went after each other with teeth bared. Jungkook shoved Chunhei while Hoseok grabbed the mate, trying to settle her as she continued to resist.

“Stop this!” Yoongi barked, entering behind Jimin and leveling the women with a harsh scowl. “Pull yourselves together. This is no time for petty arguments. It happened. It’s over. Don’t blame others for intricacies.”

The wolves stopped struggling, Chunhei falling completely silent under Yoongi’s command. The alpha looked damn pissed.

“I’d expect better from you, Chunhei,” he said pointedly.

Hoseok and Jungkook released the women, stepping back and standing between them rather awkwardly. The whole dining hall was shocked into a strange hush, everyone too afraid to utter the first word, especially amidst the tension strung out in the space between them.

Yoongi sighed, surveying the idling crowd. “I came here to collect my hunters, so let’s go. You better behave yourselves in that small office, for fuck’s sake,” he muttered the last part. He whistled and waved them out, the hunters detaching from the rest of the crowd and sulking after him.

“Shit’s getting crazy,” Hoseok murmured near Jimin’s ear, sidling up next to him.

“I’m glad I don’t have to deal with a pissed Yoongi. He’s damn scary,” Jungkook added, close to Jimin’s other side.

“Great, thanks for reminding me, Kook,” Jimin retorted. “Let’s just get whatever this meeting is over with. I don’t like being stuffed up in a room with all these pent-up fighters. I think we’re all too quick to snap at this point.”

“Agreed,” Hoseok replied.

They walked the short distance to the communal building that the elders tended to gather in. The pack alpha’s office was toward the back. There weren’t often this many wolves that had to fit inside.

They sat down in a circle, many wolves eyeing others warily. Jimin settled between Yoongi and Jungkook, keeping a wary gaze on Chunhei and the remaining alpha in her team.

Namjoon was already inside. He greeted them in an oddly pleasant manner, waiting for the murmured chatter to die down before saying anything of substance. Yoongi leaned in to whisper to the pack alpha, Namjoon’s expression falling after.

“Well, seems like we have quite a bit to talk about,” Namjoon said slowly. “Maybe starting with ideas on how to remedy this divide between you and the rest of the pack.”

“We can’t force people to trust us,” Jimin stated, crossing his arms.

“You’re saying there’s a lack of trust,” Namjoon noted.

Jimin rolled his eyes. “Joon, there’s obviously a lack of trust. We hear it during meals, in the dorms. The other wolves think we're in over our heads with this one.”

“So we show them we’re not,” Hyejin said.

Jimin really didn’t like the sound of that.

Hoseok frowned. “How the hell do you suggest we do that?”

“Bring back a dead human,” she said simply. “A life for a life—”

“Leaves us with a whole damn war,” Yoongi grunted. “Not the smartest move, Ahn.”

“Effective, though,” she argued.

“Alright, well... there’s one idea,” Namjoon said uneasily.

“Why don’t we just keep doing what we always have?” Hoseok prompted. “We provide a lot of the food. Anyone with half their wit will realize how vital we are to the pack. They can’t just be mad and wary of us forever.”

“Not everyone has half a wit, though,” Wheein muttered.

“It’s only been a few days,” Jimin interjected. “Who’s to say this change is anything near permanent? We’re all clearly shaken up. The weird atmosphere could fade if we give it time.”

Jungkook nodded. “Makes sense to me.”

“Right, says the half-wit,” Hyejin snarked.

“I’m sorry, did I step on your tail at some point?” Jungkook asked bluntly.

Hyejin grimaced and leaned back, avoiding his eyes.

“Wow, there’s a whole lotta alpha rivalry in here, huh?” Hoseok said loudly, trying to brush the conflict off.

Namjoon cleared his throat. “I guess along the same lines, there’s another thing I’m worried about. The harvest festival is supposed to be held in just over a week. I know that could really boost the mood of the pack, hopefully bringing some divided groups back together. But I’m not sure if you, as hunters, would consider the celebration disrespectful, given how near it’d still be to Kangdae’s passing.

Jimin unfolded his arms and moved his hand toward Yoongi’s lap, brushing his thumb over Yoongi’s hand. Yoongi grasped it, turning Jimin’s palm up and playing with his fingers. It was much too stuffy in here. Jimin needed the contact to calm himself down.

“I’m not sure,” Chunhei replied. “It could be too soon.”

“I don’t see why not,” Jungkook argued. “It’s tradition. Why should we let some humans mess with that? Seems like a victory for them.”

“I agree with Chunhei,” Hyejin said stiffly. “The dancing and music could be too much—”

“It could ease the people who’ve been holed up in their homes for days, too freaked out by the prospect of danger. Dancing’s never hurt anyone, Ahn,” Jungkook said.

Hyejin snorted. “Honestly. You just want an excuse for your slut of an omega to grind up on you—”

Jungkook lurched forward with a reverberating snarl. Hoseok struggled to grasp the alpha and hold him back.

“You wanna take this outside, pup?” Hyejin hissed, meeting his eyes.

“I will drag you both outside if you don’t shut up,” Yoongi barked.

Hyejin jumped in her seat, reeling back. Jungkook’s snarl died off as he pressed his lips together, expression still full of blatant distaste.

“You’re being a child,” Wheein growled at Hyejin. She turned back to the rest of the hunters. “Why don’t we just take a vote? Settle it and deal with what the majority decides.”

“Wow, finally something logical,” Chunhei grumbled.

“Alright,” Namjoon nodded. “Those in favor of holding the festival, raise your hand.”

Jimin held his hand up, Yoongi, Hoseok, and Jungkook doing the same. Wheein hesitated a moment before raising hers as well. One of the trainee wolves lifted their hand meekly, not meeting Hyejin’s sharp eyes.

“Then it’s decided,” Namjoon stated. “Business as usual.”

☽○☾

Jimin dropped off dinner at the care facility for Taehyung one evening. The omega had over an hour left of his shift when Jimin came around. Yet by the time Jimin left, it had decreased to a mere half hour. The sun had set while Jimin was inside, so he found himself walking in the direction of the dorm under a sky of stars.

He saw the lights in the infirmary still on and felt a tug at his heart. Jimin had been thinking too much about the dead mate thing lately. He couldn’t get the frustrations out of his head. At the very least, he wanted to know who his other parent was. A name, maybe. He didn’t need a whole back story right now. He’d waited this long already—he had patience left to spare.

Jimin had entertained the thought of just asking Hyunjae. The alpha was very open, and there was the real possibility that Sooyun had confided in her throughout their years of being mated.

Jimin paused on the path, not far from the infirmary. He just wanted answers. Jimin worried his bottom lip, trying to make a decision. He finally broke, turning toward the infirmary and walking up to the door.

He was met with the sight of his mother as he entered, left shocked and frozen for a minute. Sooyun didn’t leave the house all that often, and definitely not at night.

“Eomma?” He said dumbly.

“Jiminie,” she smiled. “Why’re you here? Are you okay?”

“I should be asking you that,” Jimin replied, walking over to sit at the cot across from her.

“Oh, I’m just waiting for Jaejae to finish up, baby. Jihyun’s been with a friend so I got a little lonely.”

Jimin hummed, gaze wandering toward the entrance. He knew, logically, he should just make an excuse about his sudden presence and turn tail right back out. He never wanted to upset his mother. Yet, here she was alone, amidst their mutual quiet. Jimin could vaguely hear Hyunjae talking to another medic in the back. Maybe now was his chance to say something.

“Hey, Eomma,” he began, voice wavering. She blinked up at him expectantly. “What was your first mate like?”

The color drained from Sooyun’s face, her lips pressing together as her entire body stiffened. “Where’s this coming from, Jimin?”

“It’s not an attack, Eomma,” Jimin said, brows drawn. “Why are you acting so defensive?”

“Because you know full well I don’t want to discuss these things. Leave the past in the past—”

“No,” Jimin protested, voice cracking. “It’s not fair of you to keep this from me. I don’t know a single thing about my other birth parent. Not their gender or rank. Not even a damn name! What’s my real family name?”

“Park is your real family name,” Sooyun hissed. “It’s who you are and who you’re supposed to be.”

“You can’t just erase the first four years of my life!” Jimin said desperately. “I know they’re dead, Eomma. I finally know why your mark is faded. Who were they? How’d they die—”

“Jimin,” Hyunjae said sharply.

Jimin hadn’t even scented her approach, but clearly she’d scented the heavy distress rolling off her mate in waves.

“Tell me something,” Jimin insisted, searching his mother’s eyes. “Please.”

Sooyun’s jaw tensed, shoulders slumped forward. “He was an alpha,” she said sharply. “A terrible, terrible alpha. And that’s all you will ever need to know.”

Jimin gaped. “What? That’s all you can give me?”

Hyunjae stepped toward him and lifted Jimin up by the bicep. She forcefully guided him to the door, shutting it behind them as they exited the infirmary. Jimin wrenched his arm out of her grasp, stumbling back. “What the hell?” He hissed. “Let me talk to my own mother, Jae!”

“You’re freaking her out,” Hyunjae said firmly, blocking his path back in. “You need to cool down and reassess what you’re doing to her.”

“Are you kidding me? I’m just looking for some fucking answers! My whole life, I’ve been offered nothing. She shouldn’t get to keep hiding it from me, even if the subject upsets her. It was her life! She should be able to talk about it years after the fact.”

Jimin inhaled shakily, watching Hyunjae’s tense face soften. She ruffled her hair in mild frustration, glancing out at the dark expanse of the territory.

“Jimin, she’s not doing this for herself. She doesn’t want to trigger any memories of your life before here,” Hyunjae explained

“C’mon, Jae. I deserve to know where I came from,” Jimin argued. “Even if she refuses to tell me, shouldn’t you be able to? You do know what went down, right?”

“I do, but—” Hyunjae sighed. “It’s not my place to tell you, alright? Sooyun made me swear to keep quiet, so I’m respecting her decision.”

“Seriously? Even if it leaves me in the dark? This is ridiculous.”

“Jimin, I know it’s hard—”

“No, you really don’t,” Jimin said coldly. “You have no clue what it’s like to have such little background on yourself, to have not a single bit of information on your parents’ families. Yeah, I’m Park Jimin now. But who the hell was I before? It hurts that she won’t let me know any of it, Jae.”

“But you’re Jimin either way,” Hyunjae said softly. “You’re the same person now, despite what you do or don’t know of your past.”

Jimin shook his head. “If I could stop this from bothering me, I would.”

“But you can’t,” Hyunjae concluded, expression sympathetic. “I just hope you find it in yourself to forgive your mother. Everything she’s done up until now has been for your sake, whether you realize it or not.”

Jimin looked down, frustration and guilt welling up within him.

“Go sleep this off, Jimin. Give yourself a rest. This past week has been hard on all of us,” Hyunjae said, voice taking on a gentler tone. “I need to calm Sooyun down.”

Jimin pressed his lips together, yet nodded all the same. “Fine,” he whispered. “Tell her... tell her I’m sorry for yelling.”

“I will,” Hyunjae murmured, turning back to reenter the infirmary.

Jimin huddled further into his coat and backed away from the light of the small building. He slowly resumed his path toward the dorm, mind a mess of emotions.

So Jimin had a father. He tried to absorb that fact. His father was an alpha. Apparently a terrible one at that, whatever his mother meant by that. His father was dead and had been since Jimin was four, at the very latest.

It wasn’t much to base an image off of, but it was a start.

Jimin continued onward, pausing mid-step when he neared the communal building he’d been in with the hunters mere days before. Just outside was undeniably the form of Taehyung. The omega was lingering by the entrance, hand hovering over the door handle, seemingly debating with himself.

Jimin was going to call out to him, but Taehyung made his decision and pulled open the door, quickly stepping inside. Figuring Taehyung was going to talk to the pack organizers, hopefully negotiating some much-needed time off, Jimin followed behind. He’d feel better walking the rest of the way home with a partner, anyway.

When Jimin entered, however, Taehyung was already past the organizers’ office. He was heading toward the end of the hall, eventually turning in to Namjoon’s office.

Jimin stalled in the hall, curious as to why Taehyung was seeking out Namjoon rather than Seokjin.

“Hey, Tae,” he heard Namjoon greet, voice muffled by the distance.

Jimin walked closer, pressing himself to the wall only a couple feet from the door. So maybe this was technically eavesdropping, but Jimin didn’t really see a point in turning back now. It’s not Taehyung could possess any top secret knowledge that only the pack alpha should hear.

“Hi Joon,” Taehyung replied, sounding nervous. “I, um, I have something I need to ask you. N-not as a brother, though.”

“So, official business?” Namjoon asked lightly.

“Uh huh,” Taehyung mumbled.

A bout of quiet lapsed. “Is everything okay, Taehyung? You look stressed.”

“I kind of am,” Taehyung chuckled weakly.

Jimin’s heart ached, resisting his initial urge to go in there and pull Taehyung into a hug. Jimin had been Taehyung’s self-proclaimed protector since they were pups. He’d tussle with anyone who even looked at his friend the wrong way. Of course, that got Jimin into quite a lot of trouble growing up. He didn’t mind, though, as long as Taehyung knew he had someone looking out for him.

Jimin involuntarily held his breath, waiting to hear whatever Taehyung was this anxious to say.

The sound of floorboards creaking, someone shifting their feet. Taehyung inhaled sharply, scent spiked to a noticeable extent.

“Um, so... let’s say, hypothetically, an omega was with an alpha who was almost twenty, but not quite there yet. And...” Taehyung cut himself off, exhaling.

“And?” Namjoon prompted gently.

“And the omega... got pregnant. W-would the o-omega be able to mate his alpha?”

Silence. Jimin held a palm over his mouth, trying to process what Taehyung had just said.

“Tae,” Namjoon said slowly, “Are you pregnant?”

“I don’t know for sure,” Taehung replied, voice quivering. “But I think so.” The omega released a shuddering sob.

Jimin’s composure shattered. He rushed over to the doorway, gaze meeting Taehyung’s watery eyes. “Oh, Tae,” Jimin breathed. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to listen in on something so important. I was just—”

Taehyung didn’t leave him time to finished, swiftly running into Jimin’s arms. Jimin pulled him close, felt his friend cry into his shoulder, entire body shaking. Jimin rubbed his back, hoping to soothe him somewhat. Taehyung only clung to him harder.

Jimin glanced up, locking eyes with Namjoon.

“Please don’t tell Jin,” Taehyung hiccupped.

Namjoon’s face fell. Jimin’s expression matched Namjoon’s—an awfully overwhelming mix of shock, worry, and helplessness.

All Jimin could do was let Taehyung cry.

Chapter Text

Jimin vaguely remembered living with his mother in the omega dorm from the ages of four to five. They shared a room and a single bed, Jimin curled into her side every night, sleeping soundly despite the noise of the young omegas throughout the building. The omegas used to dote on him, sneaking him extra sweets from the kitchen. They’d take him to the communal bath and try to teach him to swim. Although Sooyun was still withdrawn from the pack as a whole, her son had been thoroughly accepted and taken under many wolves’ care.

There was a girl in the room next door who would take care of Jimin when his mother had to leave for a few days at a time. Every three months, Jimin would pack up some clothes and the furs that smelled most like Sooyun and stay with their neighbor in the dorm.

Then Hyunjae became the one to take care of him. Jimin quite liked Hyunjae. She always had a hard candy to offer when she saw him, the type that were supposed to be given to fussy pups in the infirmary. When Sooyun took her short absences, three to four days at a time that Jimin much later figured out were heats, Hyunjae took Jimin up to her cabin to stay with her. Up there he had his own room, and he started leaving some of his toys around, knowing he’d be back eventually. Hyunjae would also take him to work and let him play in the back room if the infirmary wasn’t busy.

Jimin would snoop around Hyunjae’s house and point out all the things his mother liked. Excited gasps of, “Oh, Eomma likes this color fur,” and, “Eomma likes really fluffy cushions.”

Hyunjae would nod with a smile, simply replying, “I know.”

Jimin was too young to catch on to the fact that Hyunjae was filling her home with Sooyun’s favorite things for the sole purpose of pleasing her. She was preparing her home for Sooyun.

Jimin was also too young to pay attention to his mother being courted. All he knew was that she often came back to their room with new gifts, many smelling heavily of Hyunjae. She’d lay the furs out and say, “Pretty, isn’t it, Jiminie?”

He swore he’d never seen Sooyun look so happy.

When Jimin was six, Hyunjae began to disappear for days along with Sooyun. He didn’t mind all too much—he still liked hanging out with the omegas. That was also around the time when his mother’s scent started to change.

Jimin couldn’t really place it, just knew it was out of the ordinary. He’d nuzzle into her neck and inhale. It didn’t smell bad, just... different. A bit milky, he thought.

Soon enough he found himself sat down on the front steps of the dorm, sucking on a hard candy while Hyunjae and Sooyun knelt beside him.

“Jimin,” Hyunjae said carefully. “I want to ask you about something.”

“’Kay,” he said, watching a butterfly drift past, riding the breeze.

“Jimin, baby, pay attention please,” Sooyun said.

Jimin turned back to them, blinking owlishly. He didn’t like getting in trouble with his eomma.

“So, you’ve been to my house before,” Hyunjae began, “And you seem to like it there—”

“Uh huh. It’s warm and I’ve got my room,” Jimin agreed.

“That’s good. Well, your eomma and I have been talking for a long time. And we’ve decided it’s time we take another step and become more than friends,” Hyunjae said slowly, gauging Jimin’s reaction.

“Didn’t know there was a step after friends. I should tell Taehyungie,” Jimin said.

“You can later, baby. Just listen,” Sooyun urged, leaning into Hyunjae.

“There is a step after, but it’s a pretty big one. Do you know what mates are?”

Jimin paused, considering it. He knew Yoongi’s parents were mates. They did a lot of stuff together, lived together, hunted together too. The kind of best friends that never split up. Yeah, Jimin knew. He nodded.

“Good,” Hyunjae said softly. “Well, your eomma and I want to be mates. But that would mean you and her moving out of the dorm. I know that’d be a very big change for you. I need to know if you’d be okay with that.”

“If you want to be mates, you should do it,” Jimin said simply.

Sooyun smiled. “That’s nice of you to say, Jiminie. But Jae just wants to make sure that we’re not going to put you in an uncomfortable position. I want you to be happy with where you live and... and who I’m with.”

The candy had become so small, the smooth remainder pressed to the inside of his cheek. His whole mouth tasted like strawberries now. If Jimin could spend every day with Hyunjae, eating candies and telling stories on her soft carpet in front of the fireplace, Jimin figured he really wouldn’t mind.

“Okay,” Jimin said. He reached out to poke his mother’s flushed cheek. “Let’s all be happy together, then.”

☽○☾

Jimin and Taehyung’s morning walk to the dining hall was quiet. Taehyung had been unusually reserved since his encounter with Namjoon a few days ago. Jimin hadn’t gotten much time to talk with him properly about the news.

“We should go to the infirmary today,” Jimin said. “Since you don’t have to work ‘til later.”

Taehyung looked on ahead as they walked. “Okay,” he said meekly.

Namjoon had said that he and Jungkook could, by pack rule, get mated as long as they knew for sure Taehyung was pregnant. They really only needed a medic’s word on it before Taehyung could begin the process of working toward a mating ceremony.

He’d still need to meet with the elders, and that wasn’t even the hardest part—facing his family was sure to be the worst of it. Seokjin and their parents held rather traditional views. It was a relief that Namjoon had held off on telling his mate about Taehyung’s situation, allowing the latter more time to figure out how he was going to deal with it all.

“Tae, it’s fine. I’ll be with you the whole time,” Jimin coaxed.

Maybe Taehyung was just scared to confirm it. Because once his suspicions were validated, he’d have to face this inevitable reality. Jimin had to be there for him, though. Jungkook couldn’t hold Taehyung’s hand while he was still unaware of the omega’s condition.

“Thanks,” was all Taehyung said.

Jimin sighed and stepped ahead to walk into the dining hall. Jungkook and Hoseok were seated, heads ducked together, Yoongi at the same table listening to them with boredom. Jimin guided Taehyung to get their food, avoiding contact with other wolves. There were still tensions heavy throughout the pack, cliques eager to pick a fight.

Jimin dropped his plate by Yoongi, then leaned against his back, hand sliding over to his chest in a half hug. He felt the alpha deflate beneath his touch, inhaling his scent as Jimin pressed himself to his neck.

“Hey,” Jimin greeted, releasing Yoongi to sit beside him.

Yoongi had other plans, however, and grabbed Jimin’s hips to set him on his lap. Jimin landed with an unexpected “oof.” Yoongi wrapped his arms around Jimin’s waist and buried his nose against the omega’s neck. Jimin couldn’t be frustrated with the clinginess; Yoongi’s rut was bound to start any day now.

Jimin patted Yoongi’s hand. “I’ve got a shirt tucked in my coat to give you. Remind me before either of us leaves,” Jimin said gently. Jimin had drenched the material in his scent to help Yoongi with his rut, since the alpha still refused to let Jimin help him directly.

Yoongi grunted in affirmation.

“Chunhei still won’t go on hunts,” Hoseok mentioned to Jungkook.

“Guys, can we not gossip about this,” Jimin muttered, picking at his food.

He glanced across the table at Taehyung, the other omega having yet to eat anything. He merely leaned into Jungkook, appearance tired. Jimin wasn’t surprised; he’d heard a lot of crying coming from Taehyung’s room the past few nights. He would have gone to comfort him if Taehyung hadn’t been so cold to everyone, Jimin included, lately.

“It’s not gossip,” Hoseok argued. “I just don’t think it’s fair of her to sit her job out for a week and leave the brunt of the work on the rest of us.”

“Not to be insensitive, but she really needs to get herself together if Yoongi’s going to be sitting out for a while too,” Jungkook said.

The three of them looked to the head hunter for his response, yet Yoongi didn’t seem to be paying any attention. He was holding onto Jimin like a lifeline, immersed in the omega’s scent and presence before he inevitably had to let him go.

“So maybe we go without our usual supply of meat for a week or so. It’s been a good harvest this year,” Taehyung spoke up in a rough voice, much to Jimin’s surprise. “Let her be upset. Not everyone processes these things quickly.”

This quieted Jungkook.

Jimin began to eat properly, hoping to get Taehyung to the infirmary before it could get too busy. It’d be best if he had some privacy for such an important and nerve-wracking visit. Jimin looked at Taehyung pointedly, gesturing between the full plate and the omega.

Taehyung met his eyes stubbornly. Jimin then glanced at Jungkook suggestively in slight warning. Taehyung rolled his eyes and made a show of taking a big bite. He may be acting childish, but hey, at least Jimin had enough experience with children to know how to deal with one.

Jimin leaned forward to slide his plate over to Jungkook, prompting the alpha to finish the remainder of his eggs. Apparently Yoongi thought Jimin was shifting too far away, evident by his growl as he practically yanked Jimin back to his chest.

Jimin sighed. He often didn’t have the patience for possessive alpha antics, but this was a begrudging exception. Jimin turned his head to look at Yoongi. He grasped the alpha’s chin and pressed his lips to his cheek. He pulled away an inch to lightly chastise him. “You need to go home. Your pheromones are everywhere and it’s going to disturb others.”

“Now’s not the best time to be bossing him around, Jimin,” Hoseok chuckled.

Jimin shot him a sharp look. “I’m being practical for the sake of the rest of the pack.”

He felt Yoongi nosing along his scent gland, felt his lips against his skin before the prick of teeth. Jimin shut his eyes and held back a hiss at the sudden pain. It was a throb, no broken skin, but Jimin hadn't exactly been anticipating it.

Hoseok and Jungkook watched Jimin’s reaction with evident mirth, muffling snickers. They all knew Yoongi was staking a claim for the days he’d be gone, making sure every other wolf was aware that this omega was his.

Jimin pouted as his teammates continued to glean amusement from the situation. Meanwhile, Yoongi licked over the spot soothingly, perhaps in apology.

Jimin grabbed Yoongi’s hand and squeezed. “You really do need to go.”

Yoongi sighed and very reluctantly detached himself from Jimin, unwrapping his arms and leaning back. Jimin rose from his lap and snuck his hand under his coat to find that aforementioned shirt. He handed it over to Yoongi as the alpha rose to his feet as well.

Jimin cupped his cheek and offered a kiss, making it chaste before Yoongi could get carried away.

“Alright, remember to eat. Try to fit some sleep in. And have fun,” he said sarcastically.

Yoongi wrinkled his nose and mussed his hair. “Ha,” he replied dryly. “Bye.”

While Yoongi walked away, Jimin turned back to Taehyung with an arched brow. “You about ready to go too?”

Jungkook had just finished Jimin’s eggs and glanced up curiously. “Where you guys going?”

Jimin gaped, scrambling to answer. “Ah, he has a long shift today. I’m walking with him.”

“Oh,” Jungkook said, looking down at Taehyung’s stiff form. “Don’t overwhelm yourself.”

“I won’t,” Taehyung stated. “And yeah, I’m ready.” He pushed aside his half-eaten breakfast.

He stood and walked to the head of the table, ignoring Jungkook’s mildly concerned look. They passed through the lessening crowd of the dining hall, taking a sharp turn toward the infirmary. Even under the rising sun, the air was bitter with an unshakable chill. Jimin regretted not dressing warmer when November was well on its way.

Jimin could feel Taehyung’s anxiety radiating off him, making the short walk seem even shorter to the both of them. Taehyung stalled when they neared the building, feet suddenly rooted to the ground. He grabbed Jimin’s arm before the omega could take another step. Jimin swore he could hear Taheyung’s heart thundering.

“It’s okay,” Jimin murmured.

“I don’t think I can do this.”

Jimin bit the inside of his cheek, searching for the right words to comfort his friend. Honestly, it’d be more than just Taehyung’s family that would be upset with him. He would face scrutiny from the whole pack. There was a reason the minimum for mating was twenty. Any wolf under that age was deemed too young to be making such lasting, serious life decisions.

Taehyung had clearly made an irresponsible one, and to present that to the rest of their known world was scary. Even more frightening, though, was accepting it for himself.

“Going in there’s not going to change what’s already happened, Tae,” Jimin said. “Pregnant or not, the reality isn’t going to change just by getting a confirmation. You really think you're pregnant?”

Taehyung nodded, no hesitation.

“Then you’ve already prepared yourself to an extent. You might think you can’t handle it, but you really already are. You dealt with the realization, dealt with thoughts of the aftermath. Handled talking to Namjoon. You’re already so many steps in, and I promise you’re getting better at dealing with it the longer you’re aware of this part of you.”

Jimin smiled at him gently, watching as Taehyung’s eyes grew glassy. “It’s fine, Tae. The ones who stick with you are the ones who matter.”

Taehyung exhaled shakily and worried his lip. “What if Jungkook—”

“He’s going to be happy,” Jimin said firmly. “Because he loves you. He wouldn’t be courting you if he didn’t want a family and future. Alright?”

Taehyung quickly wiped at his eyes. “Alright.”

Jimin led Taehyung into the infirmary, an omega medic looking up from a desk off to the wall. “An emergency injury?” She inquired, scenting the air for blood.

“No,” Jimin said lightly. “Just a pregnancy confirmation.”

She eyes widened a fraction before she could reel herself in. She worked with Hyunjae, so she was familiar with both Jimin and Taehyung. The news was surely at least a little intriguing.

“We can go to a curtained-off cot—”

“Pregnancy confirmation?” Hyunjae exclaimed, popping out from the back room. Her eyes landed on Jimin, another question clearly on her lips.

“Not mine, Jae,” he said quickly before she could get too far off track.

“Oh,” she breathed. She shifted over. “Taehyung, wow. How exciting.”

“Mm,” Taehyung mumbled in response, releasing Jimin and following the other medic over to a more secluded section.

“I’ll be here when you’re done,” Jimin said encouragingly when Taehyung glanced back at him.

Taehyung hesitated in his steps, then nodded.

Hyunjae walked over after the curtain closed, sidling up beside Jimin. “Is he still with Jeon...?”

“Yup,” Jimin said quietly.

“That oughta be interesting,” Hyunjae muttered. “No harm to Taehyung, but I’m rather relieved it’s not you.”

Jimin squinted up at her, confused. “You’re not as adamant about pups as Eomma?”

“I’d just rather you wait until you’re mated.”

“That might be a while, Jae.”

“And that’s fine,” she said airily. “I’m just saying, from the perspective of someone who did do the whole pregnancy before mating thing, it kinda sucks.”

“Wait,” Jimin began, brows drawn. “Jihyun...”

“Yeah, we only mated once your eomma was three months in.”

“That’s why she smelled different,” Jimin gasped, the realization finally dawning on him. “She smelled milky. Then you guys mated and it sorta masked Jihyun’s pup scent altogether, at least to me.” Jimin pursed his lips. “Why’d you wait if you knew?”

“We had to. Since it was Sooyun’s second mating, we had to go through this whole process of appealing to the pack elders. Meanwhile, Sooyun was stuck living in the omega dorm and it—” she frowned and shook her head. “It irked me.”

“Well, hopefully the process doesn’t take too long for Tae. He has to get approval from the elders too.”

“Ah, I forgot Jeon’s still nineteen.”

“Unfortunately,” Jimin grumbled. His gaze was focused on the curtain, wondering why Taehyung hadn’t been making much noise. He half expected to hear the omega crying. Nothing, though.

Jimin played with his fingers, anxious to hear back.

God, he hoped this worked out for Taehyung. He talked about wanting a family of his own so much when they first presented. He had this entire image of what his life would look like. Taehyung’s romantic side got the better of him, though, leading him to go along with whatever alpha was currently flirting with him. Jimin was just thankful that, out of all the other alphas Taheyung had been with, Jungkook was the one he was having a pup with. Taehyung needed a partner who truly loved him.

The curtain was pulled back then, Taehyung stepping out in a daze of sorts. He didn’t look or smell distressed. Jimin wondered, for a brief moment, if Taehyung’s intuition was wrong and he wasn't actually—

Taehyung's eyes met his, a little watery, a little shocked. He splayed his palm over his belly. Oh.

Jimin smiled.

Jimin gave a short bow to the medic on both their behalves. “Thank you,” he said, turning to follow Taehyung out.

Taehyung clung to his arm once again, mind reeling. “So?” Jimin prompted, watching Taehyung’s expression morph from dazed to hopeful.

“So... I guess I’m having a pup.”

☽○☾

Jimin’s team was finishing up their day’s hunt, already shifted back and loitering around the shed when Hoseok approached Jimin nervously. Jimin was wrapping himself in an extra fur when Hoseok halted in front of him, fidgeting.

“Yes?” Jimin arched a brow. He glanced behind the alpha with a wrinkled nose, already smelling the foreign scent of their visitor.

Although the Kim Pack didn’t trade with many others, there were a few nearby packs that they were acquainted with, trading goods like jewelry and furs a few times a year. One such pack was the Kwons.

Jimin never really interacted with their representatives, but he did know that every wolf they sent was an alpha. Alphas that turned their noses up at the sight of omegas out and about, completing jobs rather than sitting around with pups all day. The representatives had no right to criticize another pack’s inner workings, so as far as Jimin heard, they kept their mouths shut. The snide looks still ticked Jimin off, though.

“So, I’m going out with Taeseob today,” Hoseok began.

“Nice, sounds fun,” Jimin replied. He narrowed his eyes and glanced back at Hoseok once he remembered Yoongi’s absence. “Wait, you’re acting as head hunter right now. You should be going to a meeting with the Kwon wolf.”

“I know,” Hoseok said slowly, holding his hands out in a placating motion. “That’s why I need to talk to you. Taeseob works with the pups, and we all know how rigid their scheduling is. Today’s the only time he has off in a long time, and I really wanna show him the flower fields out south. I’m kinda running out of time; who knows when first snowfall will be.”

“And?” Jimin prompted, having an idea of where this was headed.

“I would appreciate it so very much if you could attend the meeting in my place. You know just as much about trade routes as I do. You probably know the southeastern part of the territory better than I do, actually.”

Jimin pursed his lips. “Yoongi’s pretty strict about chain of command.”

“Please, Jimin? No one has to know. Just tell Namjoon I’m out sick.”

Jimin sighed and crossed his arms. “You must really like him.”

“I do! He’s real sweet. After working with you for so long, I figured all omegas were mean—”

He hissed as Jimin slapped his arm. “You’re supposed to be appeasing me, not insulting me!”

“Ow, sorry, fuck,” Hoseok grumbled. “Clearly you’re the nicest omega alive.”

“Indeed,” Jimin nodded. “And fine. I’ll go to the damn meeting. Just don’t screw yourself over! You're not messing up another courtship opportunity.”

“Another?” Jungkook echoed from behind them.

“The first one wasn’t my fault! I didn’t know he was interested in someone else!”

“Wait, I’m still confused. Who?” Jungkook said incredulously.

“He tried to court Seokjin back in the day,” Jimin informed.

“Holy shit, what? How did I never hear about this?” Jungkook gaped.

“Because we both kept very quiet about the incident—for good reason!” Hoseok whined. “Now let me go out with the wolf that actually likes me, please.”

“That’d be such a weird, yet entertaining pair,” Jungkook muttered to himself.

Jimin rolled his eyes at the both of them. “Bye, Seoksie,” he said with a wave, urging the alpha to hurry up and go. “Don’t let Namjoon see you running around healthy!” He shouted after him.

“So you’re really gonna go play nice with one of those snotty Kwons?” Jungkook asked. He began walking alongside Jimin to the main territory.

Jimin shrugged. “Someone’s gotta do it and Chunhei still won’t show up for anything.”

There was only a moment of quiet, then Jungkook saying, “Hey, is Taehyung feeling alright?”

“Yeah, he’s fine. Why?” He answered quickly.

“I think he’s been avoiding me.”

“Ah, well, he’s been having a hard time at work lately. Just tired, I think,” Jimin said, swallowing his nervousness.

Jungkook hummed, not entirely convinced.

“I’m sure he’ll be back to himself for the harvest festival. He loves the event.”

“He does,” Jungkook agreed. “Should I get him something, you think? To cheer him up a bit?”

Jimin smiled. “Yeah. I think he’d like that very much.”

They continued on until they stopped by the communal building, Jungkook bidding Jimin goodbye as he entered. Jimin knocked on Namjoon’s door, hearing muffled voices on the other end.

”Glad you could—” Namjoon stopped himself short as he opened the door, gaze landing on Jimin. “Oh, could Hoseok not come?”

“Unfortunately not. He’s had a very bad cough since this morning. Very gross and disruptive,” Jimin lied cheerily. “I hope I’m sufficient enough?”

“Of course. Come in,” Namjoon nodded. Jimin entered, the other alpha in the room immediately looking Jimin up and down with a pinch in his expression, clearly scenting Jimin’s rank. “Jimin, this is the Kwon’s representative, Ha Chinhwa. Chinhwa, this is one of our top hunters, Park Jimin.”

“An omega hunter,” Chinhwa said gruffly, leaning above a map laid out over a large, round table. “Must be hard for your mate, having you out there fighting and hunting.”

Jimin felt his face twitch the slightest, smile tightening. “I’m actually unmated,” he said simply.

The alpha not too subtly arched a brow. “At your age?”

Namjoon cleared his throat. “Jimin’s priority is very much the well-being of our pack, which all of us appreciate.”

Jimin narrowed his eyes at Chinhwa and stepped up to the table. “What do you need my input on, Joon?”

He noticed Chinhwa’s eyes widen at how Jimin addressed Namjoon.

“We’ve already negotiated trade deals for next month. Since there’s a chance of snow by then, we need to know the safest routes between their territory and ours.”

“Well, I’d only recommend a short cut across the lake in January. Going around adds some travel time, but...” Jimin bit his lip in concentration, eyes flitting over the sketch of their territory and beyond. “You’ll also have to avoid the east,” he stated, circling the vicinity with a finger. “This is where we’ve had trouble with humans.”

“Humans?” Chinhwa questioned, facing Namjoon.

“Yes. Only one real incident—”

“Have you considered setting out a patrol of alphas?” Chinhwa continued, cutting Jimin off, still ignoring the omega.

“At this point, it would only tire the wolves out. Our pack isn’t large enough for a nightly patrol rotation,” Namjoon stated.

“Huh,” Chinhwa rumbled. “We haven’t had trouble with humans in years.”

“Yup, vexing. Back to the matter at hand,” Jimin enunciated, attempting to draw Chinhwa’s attention. He traced the western route around the lake. "You should stick southwest. It may be a little longer than if you went around the eastern way, but I assure you this side is much safer.”

“Our wolves would have to pass through a range of hills, though,” Chinhwa argued.

“If the trek is in November, even December, it should be entirely safe. The rocky formations aren’t at a high enough elevation to get too icy at that time of year—”

Chinhwa shook his head. “No, that terrain just won’t work.”

“I’m telling you,” Jimin said pointedly, “That it absolutely will. I’ve been in these hills before in late December. If your wolves are careful and experienced with carrying heavy weights, they will be fine.”

Chinhwa continued to shake his head while Jimin’s frustration mounted. How else was he supposed to explain such a simple concept to a grown man?

“Chinwa, I assure you I know what I’m talking about. I’ve been down south many times before on small expeditions with my teams. We’ve never faced a serious injury—”

“Were you leading the team?” He interjected.

Jimin blinked at him, flabbergasted. “No, but I don’t see why that’s relevant.”

“Was an alpha making the decisions?”

“Yes, but—”

“Perhaps you don’t remember it properly. I’m sure your alpha was taking extra precautions for you,” Chinhwa stated, entirely calm. He seemed so sure of himself, pissing Jimin off exponentially more.

Jimin exhaled slowly and gripped the edge of the table. “Are you really questioning my knowledge about my field of work? Which I have been thoroughly trained in since I presented?”

“Oh, no. Let’s not make it a matter of knowledge. I’m sure, for an omega, you know quite a lot.”

“Excuse me,” Namjoon cut in quickly. “It’d be best if you didn’t put down the intelligence of half our wolves. Especially when it really isn’t relevant.”

“You’re right, Kim—usually it isn’t relevant. I just can’t wrap my head around why there’s an omega in here in the first place.”

“Did I not iterate that I am an actual expert on the southern terrain?” Jimin said loudly. “Does anyone hear a single word coming out of my mouth?”

Chinhwa then proceeded to shush Jimin. Jimin would jump at his throat if he wasn’t so shocked. “You’re getting very stressed about this. See, this is why I don’t understand why your pack lets omegas do whatever they want. Certain matters are just too distressing for them,” he stated, as confident as an alpha could get. “Park, why don’t you just calm down and return to the pups, hm?”

Jimin gritted his teeth. He saw Namjoon inching toward him, convinced Jimin was going to snap.

“Do you need me to prove myself to you, alpha?” Jimin spat. “Because I’m free this afternoon. We can head right outside. I’m always down for a wholesome brawl.”

“Jimin,” Namjoon warned.

Chinhwa gaped at him, evidently expecting Namjoon to say more. Probably hoping for a proper berating. When Namjoon didn’t continue, however, Chinhwa’s expression hardened.

“You don’t even discipline them?” He growled. He stepped forward and grabbed Jimin’s wrist.

Jimin’s face pinched in disgust, lips curling around a snarl. He was preparing to wrench himself away, but the usually composed Namjoon was already stepping up to them, forcing Chinhwa’s grip off.

“Ha Chinhwa,” he said icily, face rather neutral. “I kindly ask you don’t lay hands on our omegas. You may not agree with how we do things around here, but it is best not to question our customs.”

Jimin glared across at Chinhwa, jaw tensed and brow arched.

Chinhwa balked.

Namjoon nudged Jimin. Jimin averted his eyes up to the alpha, questioning. Namjoon tilted his head toward Chinhwa, gesturing.

Jimin huffed in disbelief. He squared his shoulders and muttered an irate, “Fine. Ha Chinwa, I apologize for challenging you to a fight. It was inappropriate given the setting and circumstances.”

Chinhwa merely continued to stare. “You crazy bitch,” he said, astounded.

“Joon, I’m gonna castrate him,” Jimin hissed.

“Alright, we’re done,” Namjoon acted quickly, urging Jimin out of the office and shutting the door once they were in the hall.

“I tried,” Jimin said sharply before the alpha could berate him.

“I know,” Namjoon sighed, running a stressed hand through his hair. “Shit, this goes so much easier with Yoongi.”

“Not my fault that guy’s an omega-hating asshole,” Jimin grumbled.

Namjoon placed a hand on Jimin’s shoulder and released calming pheromones. “I’m sorry. I didn’t realize he’d be that disrespectful.”

“You think I ruined the trade deal?” Jimin asked, quieter.

“Probably,” Namjoon said honestly. “But I’d rather we not trade with the likes of them anyway. There are smaller packs sprouting up farther west. There are always other options, Jimin.”

Jimin nodded, a bit relieved. “Good.”

Namjoon steered him down the hall at an even pace. “Why don’t you go rest a bit? Calm your system down and relax some. I can scent your distress and it’s very unhealthy.”

“Alright,” Jimin murmured. “I guess I’ve got an overload of time to spend with Taehyung.”

Namjoon paused. “How is Taehyung, by the way?”

“Not great,” Jimin replied. “But he’ll be better, I think. Still processing things. When can he appeal to the elders?”

“As soon as Jungkook’s in the loop.”

Jimin frowned. That meant Taehyung had to muster up the courage to tell Jungkook first.

“Okay. Well, thanks for keeping quiet. Taehyung won’t say it himself but I know he’s grateful for the privacy.”

“Of course,” Namjoon said quietly. “Make sure he’s resting well too, yeah?”

“Mhm,” Jimin agreed as he reached the building’s exit. “Bye, Joon.”

☽○☾

“Where does he think pups come from? Omegas are literally the pillars of a pack. You can’t have a fucking pack without pups!” Jimin huffed.

He and Taehyung were in the latter’s room, getting ready for the harvest festival taking place that evening.

“You’re still on about that? Jimin, it’s been days,” Taehyung groaned. He leaned closer to his mirror, applying kohl around his eyes while Jimin sat pouting on his bed.

Jimin hadn’t been entirely sure Taehyung would feel up to attending the festival. He was pleasantly surprised to find Taehyung in his room that morning, excitedly coaxing him to wake up and start getting ready for the event way too early—as they traditionally did. They’d spend a long time in the bath, then hours picking out clothes. It was a ridiculous waste of time, but fun nevertheless.

“Yes, I’m still on about it!” Jimin exclaimed. “You should’ve heard how he talked down to me, like I should be embarrassed about my rank. Sorry I’m proud of being an omega hunter! I can take life and give it, so fuck you.”

“And by fuck you, you mean fuck him,” Taehyung clarified with quirked lips.

“Correct,” Jimin grumbled. “I was really gonna throw down, Tae. No one disrespects me like that and gets away with it.”

“You’re bolder than most,” Taehyung hummed. “C’mere, let me line your eyes.”

Jimin begrudgingly stood and walked over, standing by the mirror and closing his eyes. His lashes fluttered as he felt Taehyung’s fingertips against his skin, one hand gabbing his chin to steady him. He felt the minor pressure of the pencil, heard Taehyung’s even breaths as he concentrated.

“You have such pretty eyes,” he whispered. He smudged the liner on his lid. “Looks better on you faded out. Gives you a sultry look.”

“Sultry,” Jimin echoed with a snicker. “Wow.”

“Oh, rouge too,” Taehyung said, grabbing the tin and returning to fret over Jimin’s face. Jimin’s eyes opened. He watched as Taehyung’s finger dipped into the pink dust, patting it over Jimin’s cheeks and the tip of his nose for added color. Jimin focused on Taehyung’s red lips, already tinted. His tongue stuck between his lips as he finished fading out the dust, making the pink tint look more natural against Jimin’s skin. “Pretty,” he mumbled, stepping back.

Jimin grabbed Taehyung’s cheeks. “Look at you, sexier than the day you presented.”

Taehyung smiled shyly and pushed him away. “Maybe I’m glowing,” he said weakly.

Jimin nodded. “That must be it.” Jimin paused, listened to the chatter out in the hall and waited for the noise to die down and the omegas to depart. “Do you think you’ll tell Kook soon?”

“I... don’t know,” Taehyung sighed. “But I do know it won’t be tonight.”

“Right, just fun tonight,” Jimin replied.

Taehyung nodded. “Just fun.”

“Park Jimin!” A familiar voice shouted down the hall. Jimin’s shoulders stiffened, attention whipping to the ajar door.

“He sounds mad,” Taehyung whispered.

“Yeah,” Jimin breathed, searching for somewhere to hide. He had a pretty good idea of what Yoongi was upset over. Jimin wasn’t allowed much time, though, Taehyung’s bedroom door opening the rest of the way only a moment later.

“Yoongi,” Jimin tried to greet cheerily, going still in the middle of the room.

Yoongi walked up to him, brows drawn and lips pressed tight together. “Why did I hear that you challenged another pack’s alpha to fight during a meeting that you weren’t even supposed to attend?”

“Y’know, I’m so glad you finished your rut in time for the festival. I was getting kinda worried—”

“Jimin,” he repeated pointedly, folding his arms over his chest.

Jimin puffed out his cheeks in annoyance. “He was being disrespectful, right Tae?”

Taehyung backed away. “I wasn’t there, don’t drag me into this.”

“H-he kept ignoring me and saying I didn’t know what I was talking about just ‘cause I’m an omega,” Jimin said indignantly.

“That doesn’t mean you should challenge him to a fight!”

“I was ready to defend my honor, Yoon,” Jimin protested. He could feel Yoongi’s dissatisfaction, palpable in the air. “It’s not like he really even touched me.”

“Excuse me?” Yoongi enunciated, narrowing his eyes. “He touched you?”

“Oh,” Jimin breathed. “I figured Joon told you that part too.”

“No, he left it out for the sake of my sanity. What the fuck,” Yoongi growled, pinching the bridge of his nose. “I want to not be super pissed about this, but I’m still riding a huge fucking wave of hormones.”

“He just grabbed my wrist. It was brief.” Jimin played with his fingers, expression slightly apologetic. “Do you want to, uh, scent me?”

Yoongi didn’t respond, just grabbed Jimin’s hip and tugged him over, nose pressed to Jimin’s neck. Jimin melted into him, palms steadied on Yoongi’s broad chest. He wrapped his arms around Jimin’s waist and held him very close.

“Don’t like strange alphas in our territory,” Yoongi grumbled against Jimin’s skin.

“Trust me, none of us enjoyed his presence either,” Jimin said. He felt his knees go weak, body reacting to all the pheromones Yoongi was releasing. “Alpha, relax,” Jimin coaxed, mind growing fuzzy as he naturally began to submit, head tilting back further to allow Yoongi better access.

“God, Yoongi. Now your scent’s all over my room,” Taehyung complained. He leaned heavily against his dresser, overcome by his own body’s reaction too.

Jimin curled his hand into Yoongi’s hair and managed to pull his head away. Jimin was breathing heavy, trying to piece his loose threads together again. “We should... we should head out,” Jimin managed to utter.

The room had been cast in a gray dimness once the sun set. The pack was sure to light the bonfire soon.

Taehyung exhaled heavily, gathering his wits before he turned back to his dresser. He grabbed a pair of glittering earrings, then leaned in close to the mirror to put them in.

“Taehyungie, where’d you get those?” Jimin asked breathlessly. Jimin had to hold Yoongi away, the alpha’s arms still encompassing him.

“Kookie gave them to me yesterday. Nice, huh?”

“Very nice,” Jimin agreed.

Jimin managed to untangle himself from Yoongi’s hold and walked to Taehyung’s bed, picking up the large black fur he’d left there. It was turning out to be one of his favorites, especially now that the temperature was really starting to drop. Yoongi moved forward to pull the fur up higher along Jimin’s neck, tucking it around him carefully.

“I would’ve gotten you something new to wear too, but... you know.”

Jimin smiled softly. “I know.”

Taehyung cleared his throat and inclined his head toward the door when he garnered their attention. “Sun’s gone. Time to party, boys.”

Chapter Text

The wolves walked out of the omega dorm to find Jungkook waiting by the steps. He blinked up at Taehyung owlishly, the omega ducking his head with a blush. Jimin held back a smile, hoping his friend could really just take this evening to have fun.

“Hey,” Jungkook said slowly when they reached the bottom. He held out his arm for Taehyung to hold onto. “You look really good. Not that you don’t always. But like, somehow extra good,” he fumbled over his words.

Yoongi snorted. Jimin grabbed his arm and tugged them toward the center of the territory where everyone would be gathered. The other two trailed after them, talking in quiet tones.

“Do I look good, Yoongi?” Jimin teased, pushing up against his shoulder.

Yoongi’s gaze flickered over Jimin, from his makeup to his attire. “That’d be an understatement, pup.”

Jimin snickered, swaying on his feet. “Let’s hit the wine first, mm?”

“I’m already low on energy. I don’t know if that’s the best idea.”

“You can just watch me drink, then. I’m always entertaining.”

“Perhaps too entertaining. No drunken arguments this time, alright?” Yoongi urged.

Jimin rolled his eyes. “Sounds boring, but okay.”

Smoke drifted through the air, rising from a wavering glow of orange not far off. There was distant shouting and laughter, plus the squeals of playing kids.

“They lit the bonfire without us,” Taehyung pouted.

“To be fair, we’re a bit late. Night’s already fallen,” Yoongi said.

“I’m sure there’s still stacks of wood to be thrown in by the pups,” Jungkook added.

Jimin giggled. “You’re calling Tae a pup, huh?”

“Are you saying he doesn’t act like one?”

Taehyung huffed, shooting a pout between Jungkook and Jimin. “I’m just young at heart,” he protested. “That’s why children like me so much, y’know.”

“Oh yes, that must be it,” Jimin hummed mirthfully.

A group of little kids ran past them when they reached the clearing, chasing after each other with arms outstretched. Adults were mingling, practically the entire pack out and conversing, even the more secluded wolves like Sooyun.

There were tables laid out with party foods and many bottles of wine and soju. Drums were set up on the southern end of the bonfire, the music and dancing yet to begin. A few young, unpresented wolves were loitering near the fire, tossing in wood and cackling as sparks burst into the air. Jimin spotted Jihyun with those wolves, laughing along.

Past the tables were the Parks and Jeons. Sooyun was giving her mate an odd look while Hyunjae shoved food in her mouth, the latter nodding along to whatever Jungkook’s mother was saying. The Jeons were the closest neighbors to Sooyun and Hyunjae. They were carpenters, and preferred to work from home, a little farther from the main territory than most. Sooyun often teased that Jungkook only became a hunter because he was following after Jimin, since many wolves tended to pick up the same occupation as their parents.

Sooyun’s gaze flickered over to Jimin and Yoongi, expression falling neutral for a moment. Jimin’s chest felt tight with guilt. Sooyun quickly recovered and smiled at Yoongi. Jimin averted his eyes.

“What’s wrong?”

Jimin glanced at Yoongi, tongue caught. “W-what do you mean?”

“Jimin,” Yoongi sighed.

“I’m actually very thirsty, y’know,” Jimin said in a forcibly smooth tone. “Could you go get me a drink?”

Yoongi was none too pleased with Jimin’s aversion.

“You want something too, Tae? Wine?” Jungkook asked.

“Ah, yeah. Water would be nice,” Taehyung said, scrambling to add, “No alcohol. Don’t want to get lightheaded or anything before I even get the chance to dance.”

“I, for one, can work through the tipsy haze,” Jimin said, urging Yoongi to just drop it and go.

“Alright,” Yoongi mumbled, giving in for now. He left for the drink table, Jungkook scurrying after him.

Jimin soon found Taehyung clinging to his arm, and nodding to their right with a worried expression. “Don’t do anything to draw attention. My parents are here.”

“What?” Jimin gasped, resisting looking over too. “I thought they were still on a diplomacy trip.”

“They should be. It’s not like they even enjoy the harvest festival. Say it’s a crude mass-mating ceremony,” Taehyung hissed. “Great, now I’ve gotta avoid them all night. And Seokjin! I just know he’ll drag me over there if he finds me.”

“Tae, you can’t avoid your parents forever. It’s probably better to tell them before they stumble upon you visibly pregnant,” Jimin said lowly.

Taehyung vigorously shook his head. “Nuh uh. Here’s my plan. I don’t tell anyone. I stay inside once it’s too obvious to hide, until I give birth. Then I just tell them I found the pup in the woods. Simple, right?”

“A pup that shares a striking resemblance to you and Jungkook?”

“Just a funny coincidence.”

Jimin rolled his eyes as the omega ducked further behind him. “That’s stupid and you know it. Really, how are you going to tell them?”

Taehyung pursed his lips. “I’ll... I’ll get really wasted so I lose all inhibitions and have to blurt it out. Then I run, like, fast.”

“You’re gonna get drunk?” Jimin reiterated with an arched brow.

“Yes—Wait, no. Shit!” Taehyung said under his breath. “Fuck, I don’t know anymore. They’re gonna skewer me, Jiminie. They’ll make me retract my family name and cast me out into the wild.”

“That's extreme, even for the Kims,” Jimin shook his head. “What’s the most they can do, huh? Ignore that they have another grandkid?”

Taehyung blinked, tense expression falling lax. “Oh,” he muttered. “They’re gonna ignore my pup, aren’t they?”

“Tae, I’m sorry,” Jimin whispered. “I didn’t mean it that way.”

“But you’re right,” he said, voice laced with dawning sadness.

“Hey, it’s okay. Kookie’s parents will shower your pup in love. I know that for a fact.”

“Yeah, if I ever muster up the courage to tell him,” Taehyung said dully.

Jimin had always felt apprehensive around the Kims, feeling like a smudge under their scrutinizing gazes. They were idealists—a pack should look and function a certain way. An alpha and an omega, mated for life with pups. No deviation, otherwise chaos would surely ensue.

As the child of a twice-mated omega, Jimin was treated with caution by the pair. He felt most at odds with Taehyung’s alpha mother, Kyungmi; she had a tendency to treat Jimin like he was dirty, something that never belonged in her pack, let alone her house. Kyungmi turned up her nose when she found him and Taehyung playing together. Her distaste only worsened when Jimin presented and chose to be a hunter.

They were “civilized” wolves, the type who kept to rules and customs, and expected their children to follow that same path. Taehyung wasn’t all that great at fitting the mold, however. He didn’t pay much attention in school, much more occupied with the social aspect. He was a kind kid, but a messy one, according to Taehyung’s omega father. He was too sensitive, even for an omega. Didn’t know how to just suck it up and pull himself together.

Then Taehyung presented and his relationship with his family became near toxic. They were furious with how casually he hung around alphas, disgusted when they heard he didn’t spend his heats alone. They told Taehyung over and over that a Jeon was an unreasonable mate. According to Kyungmi, Jungkook was uneducated, careless, and unsuitable to be the mate of a revered Kim.

But in Jimin’s opinion, it was their own actions precisely that drove Taehyung toward his current path. He was only looking for love amidst the unending scrutiny of his family. He followed after alphas in hopes of receiving some sort of genuine affection, only to be used and discarded by most of them. Taehyung was drawn to Jungkook because, at the very least, this alpha was compassionate and sincere. Sure, he was a hunter from a rough around the edges family, but he loved Taehyung—that was all the omega had ever wanted.

Jimin exhaled slowly. He wished there was more he could say to reassure Taehyung, but he found himself at an increasing loss for words. He backed them away from the direction of the Kims, not paying too much attention. They nearly bumped into Jungkook.

“What are you guys doing?”

Taehyung nearly jumped out of his skin, turning around to stare at Jungkook wide-eyed.

“Avoiding Tae’s parents,” Jimin explained. “They always ruin the mood.”

Jungkook handed Taehyung his glass of water. “Well, I can’t argue with that.”

The drums were starting up, their attention averted as wolves began to gather around the music, many already evidently intoxicated. Jimin took his wine from Yoongi and quickly downed half the glass.

He noticed Hoseok jogging toward them, grin on his face. He stopped with a heavy exhale, glancing at them. “Hey, guys. Who’s gonna dance with me?” He asked excitedly. “Taetae?” He prompted, pointing at the omega as he sipped at his water.

Taehyung tapped the glass in contemplation. Cheers from the dancing crowd filtered over, backed by the steady beat of drums, reverberating in their ears. “Yeah, sounds fun,” Taehyung decided, shoving his cup back over to Jungkook. He took Hoseok’s offered hand and scampered off with him, leaving Jungkook to trail along after.

“We should dance too—”

Jimin was cut off as Yoongi grabbed his bicep, tugging him back to his side. “I had an interesting exchange with your mother at the drink table,” Yoongi said with faux casualty.

Jimin swallowed a growing lump in his throat, chasing it with the last of his wine. “Oh yeah?”

“First she asked me if you’ve been stressed. So I had to awkwardly tell her that I wouldn’t know, considering I’ve been in rut for days,” Yoongi continued. “And then I asked why, does he seem stressed to you?”

“Weird, considering I haven't been around her in nearly a week,” Jimin said tensely.

“Right, almost like you’ve been avoiding her. Oh, wait. She did actually say you’ve been avoiding her,” Yoongi said bluntly, targeting Jimin with a stern, yet expectant look. “Wanna tell me what that’s all about?”

“Okay, you got me,” Jimin groaned. He set a hand on his hip and looked out at the crowd of dancers, watching as Hoseok spun a giggling Taehyung around. The bonfire wavered with a shift in the wind, smoke now blowing in their direction, stinging Jimin’s eyes. “I may have gotten a little desperate for answers about my father. Turns out I have a father, Yoongi! I mean, a dead one, but he existed!”

“Did you really pressure your mother—”

“Yoongi, don’t get pissed at me. You don’t get it. She’s been hiding this shit since I was a pup. I have a right to the information,” Jimin protested.

“Did you upset her?” Yoongi said flatly.

Jimin gaped for a second. “Y-yes, alright? I didn’t stomp in there with the intention of hurting her, but it... I’ll admit it happened.”

“And have you apologized?”

“Sort of. Indirectly,” Jimin grumbled.

Yoongi brushed a hand through his hair, jaw tense. “Sooyun cares about you so deeply, Jimin. You should treat your mother kindly while you still can.”

Jimin shook his head. “No. You don’t get to play the dead parents thing right now. That’s not fair,” Jimin growled. “You know I love Eomma. She’s just running my patience thin.”

Yoongi crossed his arms and looked away in irritation. “And what happened to the whole honesty thing, huh? I thought we were supposed to be trusting each other and all that.”

“That—that doesn’t apply here,” Jimin stuttered.

“Seriously? When does it apply, then? When I’m the one keeping things from you? Is this a one-way situation?”

Jimin’s grip tightened around his glass. “That’s not what I mean!” He huffed. “It’s not like I wasn’t going to ever tell you. First you were gone, now we’ve got the festival. I don’t know, I haven't exactly been in the mood to break that whole evening down for you.”

“God, sometimes…” Yoongi shook his head.

“What, Yoongi?” Jimin hissed. “Sometimes, what?”

“You try me,” Yoongi said lowly. “We’re polar opposites, and it’s hard to deal with it. That’s all.”

Jimin’s face fell. “Uh huh?” He mumbled. “Too much trouble, yeah?”

“That’s not what I said,” Yoongi sighed.

Jimin shoved his glass against Yoongi’s chest, prompting the alpha to take it back. Yoongi hesitantly grasped it. Jimin dropped his hand and fixed Yoongi with a neutral look. “I’m gonna go dance with my friends.”

Jimin walked off, arms wrapped around himself as he searched for Taehyung in the crowd. He found Hoseok first and stepped in to steal him from his current partner.

“Jimin!” Hoseok greeted, grabbing his hand and pulling the omega into the rhythm. “Where’s Yoongi?”

“Who cares,” Jimin said, spinning himself around, his back to Hoseok’s front, swaying his hips. “I feel the wine catching up to me.”

Jimin lost track of time, falling into the heat of bodies and deafening bursts of shouts and laughter. He took short breaks to down more alcohol, head growing fuzzy while he was passed around from partner to partner, never interested enough to stay with one person for too long.

Hoseok said Jimin had a very flirtatious look about him, how he interacted with the other wolves. But he was sly enough to leave before any of them could get their hopes up.

Jimin eventually stumbled into Jungkook and Taehyung, the two seemingly glued to each other. Taehyung seemed so relaxed, head on Jungkook’s shoulder despite the energetic beat surrounding them. The world had disappeared for a moment, leaving only the pair in their own small bubble.

The dancing wolves joined together in song, drunken and joyful under the orange haze of the crackling fire. Jimin sang along, words slurred, lyrics falling off his tongue naturally. He shut his eyes, hands on his own body, along his neck, and into his hair as the chorus of voices went on.

For a little while, with hungry eyes on him and a warmth spread through his limbs, Jimin could forget what lingered out past that tree line. Tonight there was no danger, no worries or conflicts. Just feeling and sound and the thrum of his own heart in his eardrums.

Jimin bumped into someone, shaken from the cloud of his mind. He took a deep breath and weaved through the mass, realizing he’d landed himself right in the middle at some point. He pushed past the edge of the crowd, the night chill biting his cheeks once he stepped away from the heat of so many moving bodies.

Jimin decided he should eat something and drink water to start clearing his head up, and searched for the tables. There were blankets laid out in the grass, older wolves sat down and conversing with friends while their pups were passed out on their laps. Jimin walked around the small groups to reach the food, still catching his breath.

Jimin brushed his hair back and wiped sweat from his brow. He drank a glass of water first, moving toward the food when he noticed a wolf lingering nearby out of his peripheral. Jimin blinked at the alpha, wondering how long he’d been by the other table.

The alpha turned to Jimin and smiled. “Oh, hey. Park, right?”

“Uh, yeah,” Jimin said dumbly, brain grinding to a near halt.

“Sunwoon,” he pointed to himself. “We were in school together, as pups.”

“Ah,” Jimin uttered, entirely uninterested.

“I guess you wouldn’t remember. You were always with the younger Kim boy,” he chuckled.

“Still am.”

“Of course,” he replied, glancing around a bit awkwardly. Jimin’s patience was waning in his desperation to get out of this boring encounter. “You’re a hunter, aren’t you?” He then said. “What do you think about this whole human situation?”

Jimin hummed and stretched out to swipe a cookie, biting off half before he bothered to speak. “I think we’re all gonna die,” Jimin said with a shrug.

Sunwoon’s brows shot up to his hairline, complexion going pale. “Really?”

Jimin popped the rest of the cookie into his mouth and laughed, nearly falling over with the effort. God, his limbs felt weak and wobbly. “No. That was a joke,” Jimin dead-panned. “I’ll kill any human before they can get to me. You’re fine, bud,” Jimin winked. He dusted the crumbs off his hands.

Sunwoon blinked owlishly, still recovering. “Alright, I trust I’m in good hands.”

“Yup,” Jimin drawled.

Sunwoon tapped the table. “Speaking of hands,” he said, wincing at his own transition, “Do you think, uh, you’d wanna dance?”

Jimin rolled his eyes, luckily facing away from the oblivious alpha. He turned back to him with a dull look. “Sorry, ‘m tired and tipsy enough to trip over myself.”

“Right,” Sunwoon muttered, tone downtrodden.

Jimin shifted away from him, wondering where the hell he could retreat to now. He didn’t want to loiter around the adults, lest he run into his mother, or even worse—elders who liked to remind him how big he’d gotten.

Jimin blew hair out of his eyes as his gaze drifted back to the bonfire. It was dying by now, embers burning hot, popping with glowing red sparks. Close by, Jimin spotted Yoongi, and froze.

The alpha wasn’t alone. There was a girl with him, cheeks pulled tight in a smile as they conversed. She leaned into his space, Yoongi’s stance remaining casual. Even if Yoongi wasn’t responding to her advances, her flirting in general was quickly getting on Jimin’s nerves.

She looked young. Who was this kid? Why’d she think she had the right to hit on his alpha?

Jimin set his glass down as carefully as he could manage. He readjusted the fur on his shoulders and stuck his chin up as he walked over to them. Yoongi must have scented his approach, turning toward Jimin.

Jimin was ready to push the girl away, irate at how close she was to Yoongi. Yoongi grabbed Jimin before he had the chance, holding him away while the girl stumbled back a step. Jimin was near enough to scent that she was an omega, only stoking his anger.

“Jimin,” Yoongi coaxed, trying to draw his attention from the perceived threat. “This is Dasung. You’ve probably seen her around the dorm. She’s just been talking to me about her plans to start training as a hunter. She’s worked in the kitchen for a couple years and wants a change of scenery.”

“Seems a little close for a casual talk,” Jimin growled.

“He’s drunk. I’m sorry,” Yoongi sighed.

Dasung waved her hand. “No, no, it’s fine. Um, as the head hunter said, I’ve requested a position change. I’ve been hearing about the human troubles, and I’d like to be of some use to the pack in that manner. Plus, I’ve always wanted to try hunting. My parents dissuaded me once I presented, though.”

Yoongi nodded along. “Although he doesn’t look the part now, Jimin really is our best omega hunter. I’m sure he could be helpful during your training.”

Jimin’s shoulders eased up, foggy brain slow to process what they were saying.

“Right, Jimin?” Yoongi prompted, almost a warning.

“Yeah,” Jimin said dully after a beat. “Sure.”

“It’s been nice to formally meet you, Dasung. I think I need to take Jimin home now, though. He’s had a little too much to drink,” Yoongi said politely, bodily dragging Jimin’s frozen form further away from her.

“O-okay. Bye, Yoongi,” she said, a bit wide-eyed.

“That’s Head Hunter Min to you,” Jimin grumbled, words slurred together.

Yoongi turned him around and practically held him up as they walked. “C’mon, pup. You need a lot of water and a warm bed.”

“She’s the pup!” Jimin protested, trying to point back at Dasung, only managing to get light-headed in the process. “She—why—why were you with another omega? She was flirting with you!”

“I don’t think so.”

“And you call me oblivious,” Jimin scoffed. He attempted to push himself off Yoongi, only to sway and fall back into him. “Her scent was,” he made an eccentric motion with his hands, “Strong. Trying to draw you in.”

“Uh huh,” Yoongi mumbled, more focused on getting Jimin home safely.

“Yoon, you’re not listening to me,” Jimin whined. He reached up and started pinching Yoongi’s cheek, irritated and tired.

“You’re drunk. Drunk people don’t have much of substance to say.”

Jimin gaped in offense. “’Scuse you. You don’t care that it—” hiccup, “—bothers me that you were with another omega?”

Yoongi actually chuckled and stopped them, far enough from the bonfire for the noise of the gathering to sound muted and distant. The fire itself was only a blob of wavering orange. He placed his hands on Jimin’s shoulders while the younger glared up at him.

“Are you jealous, Jiminie?”

Jimin balked. “I-I just think you should be paying attention to your omega.”

“Well, my omega stormed off hours ago. So I think you’re being a little hypocritical here.”

“It doesn't—”

“Apply? Jimin, you’re being very childish,” Yoongi said, tilting his head and watching Jimin struggle for a retort.

Jimin wrestled with his heavy tongue for a string of moments, wading through the messy thoughts cluttering his head to find something coherent to say. “I-I’m...” Jimin pursed his lips, then pouted. “I’m sorry,” he mumbled.

Yoong looked genuinely surprised, blinking down at Jimin for a second. “For what?”

“For storming off,” Jimin said in a small voice. “You had a good point, but I just wanted to be mad. ‘Cause I've been mad for a while. Everything’s been... everything’s a lot. I’m stressed and always,” Jimin inhaled a shuddering breath, “Always angry. Why am I the only one?”

Yoongi’s expression softened. “You’re not the only one. You’re just more vocal about it. You haven’t noticed? Hoseok’s been going out a lot alone. He’s constantly scouting the territory for unusual scents. Hyejin and Wheein barely sleep. And Chunhei just looks... haunted. We’re all taking it hard, Jimin.”

Jimin bit the inside of his cheek and nodded, eyes watery. Yoongi pulled him into a hug. “Fear translates into different things for all of us. Some express it through paranoia, others through anger. I think we all need to learn how to deal with it and make use of it. Turn all this bad emotion into something productive.”

“Which doesn’t include snapping at our eommas,” Jimin muttered.

“Right,” Yoongi agreed. He leaned away to look Jimin in the eye, wiping at a single tear streaking down the omega’s flushed cheek. “You’re pretty even when you cry,” Yoongi murmured.

Jimin ducked his head, tucked himself under Yoongi’s chin. “’M tired. Let’s go home.”

“Alright, pup,” Yoongi agreed, tugging Jimin against his side and slinging an arm around his waist.

“Not a pup,” Jimin argued as they walked toward the omega dorm.

“But you are,” Yoongi snickered, pressing his nose to Jimin’s temple, then planting quick kisses to his cheek. “We’ve been over this.”

Jimin struggled against him, huffing until Yoongi nipped his ear. Jimin devolved into giggles. He blushed down to his neck when Yoongi cooed, “Pretty baby. The prettiest.” Meanwhile, Jimin was silently preening under the praise.

Jimin felt the previous weight and tension of his body ease off of him during their short trek to the dorm. He found himself elated and warm by the time they reached the front door. They stumbled into the hallway, moving toward Jimin’s room on muscle memory alone. Jimin squealed when Yoongi pinched his hip and grasped at the knob of his door to get it open.

“Sounds empty in here tonight,” Yoongi noted. “Everyone still at the festival?”

“Probably. Could also be in the alpha dorm getting laid,” Jimin sighed wistfully.

“You’re reminiscing like you’ve ever spent a night in the alpha dorm.”

“How do you know I haven’t?” Jimin pouted, walking backwards to his bed.

“Because all throughout the first heat we spent together, you repeated ‘I’m a virgin! Treat me gently!’” Yoongi reminded mirthfully. “And what did I do?”

Jimin wrinkled his nose up in embarrassment. “Treated me gently,” he whined.

Yoongi pointed at him. “There you go. I know everything about you, Park.”

“Everything?” Jimin echoed, face suddenly falling lax as a thought came to him.

Yoongi squinted at him, catching onto Jimin’s look of contemplation. “What?”

Jimin plopped down on his bed, the mattress dipping as Yoongi settled beside him.

“Your eomma used to talk about how you were both there when me and Eomma got here. You guys were the first to find us. Do you...” Jimin bit his lip. “What do you remember of that? If anything.”

Yoongi’s brows creased; he leaned back against his hands. “I was only, what, six? It’s kinda fuzzy.”

“I don’t remember it at all,” Jimin said quietly. “Anything would help.”

Yoongi sighed. “Sooyun didn’t trust us. I remember her scent being really distressed. I guess that makes sense. If she’d been running from something for hours, a foreign alpha would be one of the last people she’d trust, especially when she’s got a child to protect.”

“Any other scents? Did we smell like another pack?”

“Well, yeah. But none I recognized. Blood, though. I could vaguely scent blood.”

Jimin leaned in close. “Really? Whose?”

“Not sure. It was pretty muddled by the rest of your foreign scent.”

“D-did we seem injured?”

Yoongi hummed. “Sooyun had a limp,” he nodded to himself. “Nothing serious. And you... you were just shivering,” Yoongi said, voice dropping in volume as he fell into the memory. “The blood was on you, but it wasn’t fresh. You were kinda whining but I think you were just cold. You—” He stopped.

Jimin pressed their shoulders together. “What?” He asked, a bit desperately.

“You were so small—that’s what I remember most. You were tiny and shivering and scared. I couldn’t stop staring. I felt drawn to you, I think. Like all I wanted to do was protect you.”

He met Jimin’s gaze, the omega’s lips parted and eyes glassy. “Really?” He whispered. “Even as a pup, you wanted to protect me?”

Yoongi shrugged. “Felt like the natural thing to do.”

Jimin blinked away the blurriness in his vision and rested his cheek against Yoongi’s shoulder.

“If you don’t remember that night, what was your earliest memory?” Yoongi asked softly.

Jimin scrunched his brows. He hadn’t thought much of his earliest memory. Most from that time in his life were blurry. Yet when he looked back, one stood out, clear and deeply personal. “It was you,” Jimin murmured. “In school, while we were still little kids. None of the others would play with me.”

He could vividly recall the gathering of children on the other side of the room, voices hushed and sharp. They’d aim apprehensive stares at his back, but never wandered too close. They wouldn’t touch him, talk to him.

Meanwhile, Jimin felt an ache inside himself, like he was missing something he just couldn’t place. He was lonely.

Jimin breathed out. “But then you came over, sat down, and played like it was no big deal.”

Yoongi had leaned in close to pick up one of the blocks, examining the chipped paint before he set it down next to Jimin’s tall, unsteady tower. Messy black hair fell into his eyes as he focused on his building.

“You didn’t smell like us,” Yoongi said. “I remember. The kids wouldn’t go near you because they didn’t see you as part of the pack. It didn’t help that their parents told them to keep their distance. But I knew who you were, definitely no one dangerous. You looked kinda sad, stacking blocks alone. Of course I went and played with you.”

Jimin smiled. “It meant a lot.”

“I’m glad,” Yoongi murmured. He cupped Jimin’s cheek and tilted the omega toward him, kissing him chastely.

Jimin shut his eyes and leaned back in, kissing him again. He slung his arms over Yoongi’s shoulders and crawled into his lap, slowly pushing the alpha down against the mattress. Yoongi grasped his hips, kiss lazy and sensual. Jimin rocked his hips against Yoongi’s.

Yoongi chuckled. “I just got out of rut,” he reminded. “Stamina’s not too great right now.”

“’S fine,” Jimin whispered against his lips. “Just let me...” he sighed, kissed Yoongi again. “Feel you.”

Jimin threaded his fingers through Yoongi’s hair and opened his mouth, gasping as Yoongi ran his nails along Jimin’s back. He moaned as he felt Yoongi’s tongue laving against his own, absently grinding back down.

Jimin didn’t pay much attention to the loud commotion at the dorm’s entrance, or the heavy footfalls down the hall. He was too wrapped up in Yoongi’s touch, suddenly reminded of how much he’d missed his alpha’s hands on him. Then Taehyung’s door creaked open, the next room over.

Jimin broke the kiss quickly, sitting up in confusion as someone else entered the dorm.

“Taehyung!” Jungkook shouted, out of breath and mildly irate.

Yoongi and Jimin exchanged a curious look before scrambling up, both listening intently. Taehyung’s sobbing reached Jimin’s ears a second later, startling him.

Taehyung’s door slammed shut before Jungkook could reach it. “Go away!” Taehyung shouted.

“No fucking way. What the hell’s wrong?” Jungkook protested.

“Dumbass,” Yoongi groaned. “You don’t curse at a distressed omega.”

Jimin slid off of him, gathering his wits as Yoongi walked to Jimin’s bedroom door. Jimin followed along, heart thumping madly beneath his ribs.

“Seriously, Tae! You’re scaring me!”

Yoongi stepped out into the hall with a frown. “And you’re scaring him. Calm the fuck down and explain what’s going on.”

Jungkook staggered back, fist poised to knock. “I don’t know!” He said with evident frustration. “One moment we were at the festival, just talking. The next, he’s just running off! I don’t even remember what I could’ve said wrong.”

Jimin shoved Jungkook aside and knocked lightly. “Taetae? It’s Jimin. Can I come in? I’ll leave the dumb alpha out here.”

Jimin waited, hearing Jungkook pace behind him. Jimin turned around to snap at him. “Your annoying alpha is showing—”

“Am I not allowed to be concerned?”

“You upset him. I get to be pissed at you right now,” Jimin hissed.

The door cracked open a bit.

Jimin exhaled in relief and ducked inside, Taehyung shutting it quickly behind him. The omega was red-faced and streaked in tears. Jimin sighed and pulled him into a hug.

“What’s wrong?” He cooed.

“W-we were g-getting food and—and the girl from Jin’s work walked by. The—the pregnant one,” Taehyung stuttered in a shaky voice, clinging to Jimin. “And h-he got all quiet and said,” he sniffled loudly, “T-that it must suck to be the al-alpha that got her knocked up.” His voice broke at the last part, and he devolved back into shuddering sobs.

“Oh, Tae,” Jimin mumbled, rubbing his back soothingly. “You know he didn’t mean any harm by it.”

“But what if that’s what h-he thinks? That it would just be a burden?” Taehyung wailed. “He’s gonna reject me. And my family, and the whole pack, and I’m gonna be alone.”

“That’s not true,” Jimin said firmly. “There’s no way you’d be left alone. And you can’t just jump to conclusions, Tae. You only upset yourself. Just tell him and get it over with.”

“I can’t,” Taehyung hiccupped. “Please don’t make me.”

“I won’t make you,” Jimin said tiredly. “It’s up to you, but I really do think you should.”

“It was s-supposed to just be fun tonight.”

“I think the fun’s over now, baby boy,” Jimin whispered, pulling Taehyung away to wipe at his tears.

Taehyung caught his wobbling lip between his teeth and glanced over to the door anxiously.

“It’s okay.”

Taehyung looked at him, watched Jimin put on his brave face and nod reassuringly.

“Okay.”

Jimin opened the door, arm still around Taehyung to support him. ”You stay there,” Jimin said firmly as Jungkook stumbled forward, desperate to reach the distressed omega. “Tae wants you to know that he didn’t like your comment ‘bout the omega girl. Dickhead move.”

Jungkook gaped, evidently not recalling anything that went down before Taehyung ran off. “Alright,” he said slowly, still confused. “Is that all? Can I have him now?”

Yoongi leaned into the frame of the entryway, shifting his gaze between them, always prepared to play peacemaker.

“No,” Jimin said, pressing his lips together. “Tae has something else to tell you. And I want you to think very hard about your response.”

While Jungkook nodded vigorously, overwhelmed and anxious from Taehyung’s heavy scent, Yoongi’s eyes narrowed. There was a good chance he was already catching on. Jimin noticed him subtly scent the air, brows drawn as he deciphered what laid under Taehyung’s spiked scent. His frown eased up, a hint of shock dawning in his expression. He met Jimin’s eyes; Jimin gave a minute nod of affirmation.

Taehyung stared down at the floor, tears still gathered in the corners of his eyes. He took a deep breath and held tightly to the hem of his fur. “Kook,” he said weakly. “I’m pregnant.”

Jungkook blinked, a long moment passing before he truly processed the words. “No,” was the first thing he said—downright denial.

Taehyung hunched further into himself and Jimin snarled.

“N-no, I mean, that’s not possible,” Jungkook attempted to remedy, wide-eyed and panicked. “We’re always careful. We always... always...”

Taehyung shook his head and bit his lip as more tears flowed freely. “I messed up. My last heat, I-I skipped a dose. I wasn’t really thinking a-and it happened. I went to a medic and everything.”

“How long have you known?” Jungkook asked, voice cracking.

Taehyung’s shoulders shook with a sob. “A month.”

“An entire month?” Jungkook said quickly, a harsh edge to his voice.

“I’m sorry,” Taehyung wailed, shrinking back again. “I didn’t—didn’t know what to do. Now you’re mad at me, a-aren’t you? You’re gonna leave me, aren’t—” Taehyung hiccupped, crying too hard to speak any more.

“Tae, breathe. You’re hysterical,” Jungkook fretted. He stepped forward, Jimin eyeing him cautiously. Taehyung continued to ignore him, only whimpering when the alpha’s scent spiked in response to Taehyung’s. “Omega, stop,” Jungkook finally growled, closing the distance and grasping the back of his neck, forcing Taehyung’s body into a lax state.

The omega slumped forward with a long whine, falling into Jungkook’s chest. Weak hiccups continued to wrack his body as Jungkook shushed and scented him.

“I’m not going to leave you,” Jungkook whispered, sounding heartbroken over the mere concept. “I love you, Tae. Why would I...” He exhaled. “I’m sorry you’ve felt so uneasy about this, and that I freaked you out. I’m still reeling. This is a lot, y’know? A lot.”

Jimin’s hold fell away from Taehyung completely. He retreated back to the entryway, lingering near Yoongi.

“Give me some time to process it, okay? And to make plans. We’ll figure it out,” Jungkook continued, nose pressed to Taehyung’s hair and eyes closed. “We’re gonna be fine.”

☽○☾

Jimin and Taehyung were nineteen, sat together in a field of swaying flowers. It was spring, a sea of red, blooming poppies laid out before them. Jungkook was wandering about, collecting a bundle for Taehyung while the omegas basked under the gentle sunlight.

Jimin rubbed a stem between his fingers, absently humming as a breeze rustled his hair. “I think spring’s my favorite season,” Jimin said.

“I thought it was fall?” Taehyung murmured.

“Y’know, I say that when it’s fall, yet every time spring rolls around, I’m enamored all over again.”

“Maybe you just have two favorite seasons,” Taehyung mused.

“Maybe,” Jimin chuckled.

Jungkook straightened up, small collection of poppies in hand. He waved them for Taehyung to see. Taehyung nodded and grinned in approval, watching as the alpha turned back around and returned to diligently picking the best flowers he could find.

Jimin curled his fingers into the fur beneath them—a gift from Jungkook to Taehyung. Jimin had helped Jungkook take down the grizzly bear. It made a nice blanket, soft to the touch.

Taehyung exhaled long and wistfully, gaze still steadied on Jungkook, eyes catching every movement, the strain of his back to the hair falling in front of his eyes. Taehyung’s expression was gentle and reverent.

“I love him,” he said quietly, a simple confession.

Jimin’s lips parted in question, a bit surprised. “Really? You haven’t been courting all that long.”

“I know,” Taehyung mumbled with a smile. “But what does it matter? He loves me too.”

Chapter Text

“You three will be training Dasung.”

Jimin blinked at Yoongi, way too tired to process this bullshit. It was a chilly morning in early November. They were out by the forest, preparing to set out on the day’s hunt. The sun was barely up over the horizon, the other hunters yawning a few paces off.

Jungkook crossed his arms and Hoseok squinted. They were all at least mildly confused.

“Okay, wait. Who’s Dasung again?” Hoseok asked.

Yoongi gestured to the young girl idling behind them, perked up as she examined the tree line. “The omega I told you about earlier. The transfer.”

Hoseok’s mouth was just opening in reply when Jimin’s brain finally caught up to him. “No fucking way,” he gasped, side-eyeing the girl. “Adding a pup to our team will just slow us down! Why don’t you give her to Chunhei?”

Yoongi scowled. “Chunhei’s got enough on her hands with her team as-is. Come on, everyone has to start somewhere. It’s only temporary; she’ll be switched over to Chunhei once she’s ready.”

“What about your team?” Jimin continued to argue, desperate to weasel out of this situation.

“And make her put up with Hyejin? Absolutely not.”

“Hey, we’ve got Jungkook. He’s a nuisance too.”

“Great, thank you,” Jungkook said dully.

“Look, Jimin,” Yoongi sighed. “You’re a cohesive group and she needs a good omega example to follow. She’ll fit in fine with you.”

“I refuse,” Jimin said stiffly.

“You refuse?” Yoongi echoed, a hard edge to his voice. He stared Jimin down for a good three seconds, the omega growing squeamish under his disappointed gaze. God, it was infuriating how easily he wore Jimin down.

Jimin gritted his teeth. “Fine! She’ll join. But I won’t be the one to train her,” Jimin growled, throwing his hands up in defeat.

Yoongi whistled Dasung over, the round-faced girl skipping up to them with a curious expression. “Dasung, Hoseok’s team has agreed to train you for the time being. Just listen to their instructions and take it easy. There isn’t a lot expected of you this early on.”

“Ah, alright,” Dasung chirped. “I’m looking forward to working with you guys. I know Jimin, and you two are...?”

“Hoseok,” the alpha greeted with a smile. “This is Jungkook, our youngest, and the last person you should listen to while we’re out in the field.”

“You guys are just picking on me today, aren’t you?” Jungkook grumbled.

Dasung nodded with an open expression. “I’m excited. So, what’s the process? Got a certain spot you hunt in?”

“Yes,” Yoongi said, “I’ll be assigning those before you head out.”

Jimin snuck up to Yoongi’s side. “We deserve the territory closest to the lake if we’re gonna have a pup trailing along,” he whispered. Yoongi didn’t look all that convinced. Jimin sighed and hunched down, making himself appear smaller. He’d play submissive if he had to. “C’mon, Yoon. Please? My paw still hurts sometimes.” He held up his hand to show off the well-healed scar.

“You’re a manipulative little brat,” he murmured, low enough for only them to hear. Jimin smirked and Yoongi rolled his eyes in turn. “Fine. You stay in the boundaries I assign, though. I don’t want any trouble today.”

Jimin’s expression softened. “I know. None of us do.”

Dasung’s wolf form was surprisingly smaller than even Jimin’s. She was fluffy and black, resembling a much younger Yoongi. She stumbled over roots and seemed rather inexperience overall on four legs. She also talked throughout the entire trip, as if the woods’ every detail was fascinating enough to be mentioned.

“Look at those red leaves! Are they dead?”

“Look at that stream! It’s so glittery!”

“Look at those birds! Aw, they’re mates.”

“Look at Jimin’s tail! Does it always flick that much?”

“No!” Jimin finally snapped, turning around to bare his teeth at her. “It doesn’t always flick that much. I’m annoyed, pup, because we’re not getting anything done. If you’d focus more, maybe we would have caught something by now.”

“Jimin, don’t be a bitch,” Hoseok said in exasperation.

Jimin and Dasung snapped back in unison.

“Don’t call me that.”

“Don’t call him that!”

Jimin was startled by the haste of her defense, face easing up and tail falling limp. He took a deep breath and recovered. “You talk to Taeseob like that?”

“No,” Hoseok said dejectedly. “Sorry. You’re just being really harsh, alright? You were a blabbering, wide-eyed pup once too, y’know.”

“I like to think I’ve always been practical.”

Jungkook snorted.

“Honestly,” Jimin grumbled. “We’re already low on food. We can’t afford to waste time, Seok. How about Jungkook and I go off and catch what we need, and you do the training stuff? She doesn’t need three of us showing her the most basic shit.”

“Yoongi said we shouldn’t be splitting up,” Hoseok argued. “It’s much more dangerous if we’re caught alone or in smaller groups.”

“We’re in ideal territory! Let me go kill a couple deer, for fucks’s sake!”

“Why don’t we just demonstrate deer-killing?” Jungkook interjected. “Teach by showing. She can stick with me while you guys go through the whole chasing process.”

Hoseok turned to Jimin, ears perked. “Well?”

Jimin huffed out a breath. “I guess that could work. As long as she stays out of the way.”

“Yeah, I can do that,” Dasung said, watching Jimin intently as he brushed past them, walking ahead with his nose low to the ground.

Hoseok continued to give Dasung tips while Jimin searched out a target. He caught onto a faint trail, trying to ignore the chatter around him as he tracked the stag further into their southern territory. They were straying a bit from the lake, soft, sandy terrain turning rougher over time. Jimin quickly reminded Dasung to watch out for obstructions, like patches of brambles or twigs.

The stag’s scent was growing stronger. Jimin hunched his shoulders, steps much more careful now that he knew they were getting close. The animal should be in sight soon. Hoseok caught on and followed along, crouching and urging Dasung to do the same.

“Left or right?” Jungkook questioned.

“You head left,” Hoseok instructed. “Dasung too. Give Jungkook some space, though, in case he needs to shift course.”

Dasung nodded and tried to imitate their stance.

“Square your shoulders,” Jimin corrected. “Make sure to keep your weight balanced, or you’ll fall forward. Don’t strain your back legs too much, either. You could hurt yourself when you start sprinting if you don’t keep the muscles somewhat relaxed.”

“Thanks,” Dasung said, blinking in surprise. Her crouch was still a bit off, but better than before. Jimin nodded, knowing it’d only get better with time.

Jimin flicked his ears as he caught sight of the stag’s antlers through a cluster of old, rotting trees. The deer was standing idle in a patch of sunlight, nose poised to sniff its surroundings. There was no breeze this deep in, giving the stag a chance to catch their scent.

“Stay,” Jimin stated, leaving the other three behind as he crept closer. A few more feet and he should be a decent enough distance away. His gaze flickered to their surroundings, formulating a vague route he could chase the stag through.

The woods didn’t let up further down, so it’d be best if Jimin and Hoseok could steer the deer to the side as quickly as they could manage. He told Hoseok as much.

“I’ve been meaning to ask,” Dasung began, breaking Jimin’s concentration for a moment. He figured it was an inquiry about the hunt, and resigned himself to answering. “The head hunter isn’t mated, right?”

“What?” Jimin said with a deep growl.

The sudden noise startled the stag. Its head snapped to attention, big eyes peering at Jimin directly before it leapt in the opposite direction.

“Fuck,” Jimin snapped, dashing after the deer, a strain in his muscles. He ran through the trees with an angry fog in his mind, focused solely on the target too far in front of him. “I am not losing this kill,” Jimin said, lungs burning as he pushed himself to his limit. He only vaguely heard Hoseok swerving through the trees to his right. Losing this would technically be Jimin’s fault, and he wasn’t about to deal with that added frustration.

Jimin’s chest heaved and his jaw hurt from pent-up tension, but he was gaining on the stag. He pushed harder, not even considering the possibility that he could be hurting himself in the process. He was practically on the stag’s heels. Then Hoseok dashed in, curving in to the deer’s right side. The alpha lurched forward and bit the stag’s leg, causing it to stumble.

Jimin took that window of opportunity to surge forward to the deer’s front, jumping up and biting into the flesh of its neck. With Hoseok’s help, they bodily forced the deer to the ground. Jimin held it there while it writhed, still caught up in a whirl or adrenaline when Hoseok reminded him to finished it.

Jimin bit down and tore at its throat, feeling the animal pulse beneath him, gushing blood until it finally fell limp. Jimin spit out the chunk of flesh between his teeth and staggered back, limbs aching and lungs stinging.

Jungkook padded up to them, shock radiating off of him while he panted. “What the hell, Jimin.”

“There was a chance. I took it. You can kill the next one,” Jimin said dully, fog easing away until the world flooded back to him full-force. Everything hurt.

“Did you pull anything?” Hoseok asked, half concerned and half impressed.

“I’m sure I’ll feel it soon if I did.”

“Let’s go back. I think we’re done for today,” Hoseok said cautiously. He helped Jungkook lift the stag, the both of them waiting for Jimin to follow along.

Dasung was staring at Jimin silently. He couldn’t decipher her emotions, nor did he have the energy to really try. Jimin turned and fell into step behind the alphas.

“How was the hunt today?” Yoongi asked as Jimin descended the steps of the omega dorm that evening.

“Well, I overexerted myself and now my whole body aches like I’ve just gotten out of a heat. But other than that, it sucked,” Jimin said bluntly, grabbing the alpha’s outstretched hand. “She’s so distracting, Yoon. It was terrible for my focus. I nearly fucked up our only kill.”

“Ah, yeah. Hoseok mentioned you had a bit of a rage moment.”

“It was more than rage. It was like I had my pride riding on this stag. I don’t know, my head felt weird and foggy.”

“It’s the stress, Jimin. I’d suggest you take time off, but we can’t afford that right now,” Yoongi said.

“I know,” Jimin sighed. “At least we’ll get a short break when the snow’s deep enough.”

“Mm. Might be a month or two away, though.”

“I’ll push through,” Jimin mumbled. “It’d be easier if Dasung wasn’t around, of course—”

“Jimin,” Yoongi sighed.

“She’s such a child. She got embarrassed getting dressed after the hunt today. You can’t be bashful around alphas or they’ll just tease you for the rest of your miserable life.”

“Are you saying you never got embarrassed when you were new to this?” Yoongi asked with a mild frown.

“Not really. The only person I got shy about seeing me was you.”

“Me?” Yoongi echoed with evident mirth. “Why me? We basically grew up together.”

“‘Cause I kinda liked you, alright? It’s natural to be shy about that with an alpha you like. E-especially if you haven’t had sex and you, y’know want to.”

“Oh my god, you’re even blushing right now,” Yoongi stated with a growing smile. He pinched Jimin’s cheeks. “That’s so cute.”

“See what I mean about teasing alphas?” Jimin whined.

Yoongi chuckled and pressed a kiss to his temple. “Cute,” he repeated.

Jimin pouted, yet leaned into Yoongi all the same as they approached the dining hall. The evening air held a bitter chill to it, and Jimin was grateful to step into the warm chatter of the communal building.

They sat at their usual table with Jungkook, Taehyung, and Hoseok. Jimin’s gaze lingered on Taehyung, the omega distractedly running his palm over his relatively flat stomach as he spoke with Hoseok. Hoseok’s eyes flickered to the movement as well, yet his expression held no confusion or curiosity.

“Did you tell him?” Jimin blurted, looking directly at Taehyung.

Taehyung startled, mouth open in a dead reply. “What?”

Jimin blinked, figuring it was obvious. He made a curved motion over his own belly.

“Wait, Jimin’s pregnant too?” Hoseok gasped.

Yoongi squinted at Jimin. Jimin gaped. “No. I am not,” he said pointedly to Yoongi, then turned back to the others. “So you do know that Tae is?”

“Yeah. Kook’s terrible at keeping secrets,” Hoseok said casually. “I’ve known for days now.”

“Oh,” Jimin replied. “That means we’re all in the loop.”

“Well, not Jin,” Taehyung said quietly. “But Kook and I are having dinner at his house tomorrow night, so I’ll try to get it over with then.”

Jungkook nodded. “He’s really nervous. He’s already shaking.”

“I’ll punch him if he tries anything,” Jimin said.

“No, you won’t,” Yoongi corrected. “You’re not touching the head omega. Remember what I said about productive outlets?”

“Yeah,” Jimin grumbled, hunching down in his seat.

“If anyone’s punching my brother, it’ll be me,” Taehyung said dully. “But honestly, anything negative he says will probably be more passive-aggressive than downright aggressive. He’s mean, but in a classy way. Inherited it from our damn parents.”

“If things get too bad, we’ll just leave,” Jungkook added. “No sense talking to someone who won’t listen.”

“Hey, well, here’s something to look forward to—you get to appeal to the elders now,” Jimin said.

“Yeah,” Taehyung said softly. “I am happy about that.” He smiled up at Jungkook lovingly.

“Gross,” Hoseok muttered.

Jimin glanced at Hoseok and wrinkled his nose. “Don’t act you’re above all this couple shit. Where’s your omega?”

“He’s not mine if I haven’t even started courting him.”

“You haven’t started courting him?” Jimin asked in disbelief. “Seok! Jump in there before some other asshole picks him up. You’re both past typical mating age. Wait any longer and you’ll lose your chance.”

“Sorry! I’m just a little worried about getting rejected again,” Hoseok huffed.

“It’s not like Taeseob’s all that interested in someone else,” Jimin argued.

Yoongi cleared his throat. Jimin rolled his eyes. “Aside from me, I mean,” Jimin said pointedly. “You’re a hunter. Find your nicest fur, clean it up, and give it to him. It’s really that simple.”

“You’re underestimating the thought that goes into this stuff,” Yoongi cut in. “The first courting gift is a real point of pride for an alpha.”

Jimin arched a brow at him. “I don’t think you get a say in this. You way overthought mine.”

Yoongi balked.

“Not that I don’t love it,” Jimin said sheepishly. “Look, Hoseok. Just go for it. If it’s meant to be, he’ll love whatever you get him.”

Hoseok exhaled long and slow. “Alright. But if he breaks my frail heart, you’re to blame.”

Jimin snickered and shook his head. “You’ll be fine.” He touched Yoongi’s shoulder, the scent of food finally hitting Jimin full force. “I’ll go grab us something to eat?” He suggested, standing when Yoongi nodded.

Jimin walked over to the layout, trying to ignore a group of wolves subtly moving away from him. Maybe it had been naïve of him to assume that the uneasiness toward hunters would fade after the harvest festival. Jimin repressed a frown and gathered two plates, smiling at a couple of elderly omegas when they stopped him to rave over how attractive he’d grown up to be.

“So dashing,” the graying woman sighed

“You must steal all the alphas’ hearts, sweetie,” the other cooed, pinching his cheek.

Jimin laughed it off and told them he had one alpha in particular he needed to return to. Jimin carefully weaved through the crowd to reach his table, making sure no one bumped him or his plates in the process. Jimin stopped short a few feet away, frozen at the sight of a now familiar omega, practically glued to Yoongi’s side.

Dasung had her chin propped up on her hand, looking up at Yoongi through her lashes as he talked. She was giggling, for fuck’s sake, and Jimin could smell her sweet scent from here. And Yoongi really thought Jimin was the oblivious one.

Jealousy festered hot in the pit of Jimin’s belly. He gritted his teeth and stepped forward, moving around them to set the plates down.

“Hi, Jimin,” Dasung said innocently, expression falling when Jimin sat himself right in Yoongi’s lap. He looked her in the eye when he pressed himself against the alpha’s chest. Jimin curled into Yoongi further and buried his nose against Yoongi’s neck.

Possessiveness running hot through his veins, Jimin tilted his head to rub his cheek against Yoongi’s gland, scent-marking him. The entire table was staring at Jimin; Jimin only felt pride over the fact they were watching as he staked his claim.

When Jimin pulled away, his eyes were narrowed. “Oh, Dasung. I didn’t see you there.”

Hoseok whistled. “Petty,” he muttered, impressed.

Yoongi was staring at Jimin with a slight frown pulling at his lips. He grasped Jimin’s chin, forcing the omega to face him. “What are you going?” He asked lowly.

“Sitting,” Jimin said simply, defiantly.

“We’re in a public space—”

“Do you think she knows that?” Jimin interrupted, gaze flicking over to the shocked form of Dasung. “She’s releasing pheromones. Doesn’t seem like the most appropriate thing to do in the presence of so many other wolves. Wouldn’t you agree, Yoon?”

“S-sorry,” Dasung said loudly. “I’m not meaning to. My heat’s coming up soon, so it must be that.”

“Liar,” Jimin said firmly. “If you were, I’d smell it on you.”

“Jimin,” Yoongi growled, stealing his attention. “Stop picking fights.”

“I’m not,” Jimin hissed. “She’s making advances on my alpha.”

There was a clatter as Dasung stood. She was donning a solemn expression, but Jimin didn’t detect any sincerity in her eyes. “I really didn’t mean to cause any trouble. I just wanted to talk with you guys. But I’ll go eat with some other friends. I don’t want Jimin to feel upset over my presence.”

Snake, Jimin thought.

“No, I’m sorry for how he’s acting,” Yoongi said.

Dasung nodded. “Maybe we can try this some other time,” she replied, turning away to move to another table.

Jimin stared at the tick in Yoongi’s jaw, waiting for the chastising that unsurprisingly followed.

“You’re being a brat. You need to learn how to get along with her,” he said in a rough tone. Yoongi actually sounded angry. Jimin leaned away a bit, taken aback. Yoongi rarely got angry.

“She’s hitting on you—”

“She is not and you need to drop it,” Yoongi stated. He lifted Jimin up and set him on the seat beside him. Jimin felt an ache in his chest at the rejection. He looked up at Yoongi with wide eyes. “Now eat,” Yoongi said gruffly, pushing Jimin’s plate directly in front of him.

Was Jimin really imagining it? He knew Yoongi was desperate for cohesion amongst his hunters, but the alpha must really be fooling himself if he couldn’t see the girl’s advances. She was downright disrespecting Jimin, thrusting her scent upon an alpha that she laid no claim to. Jimin gripped the edge of the table, knuckles turning white and face heating with shame.

On one hand, Jimin could do as he was told. Submit and be a good subordinate, cut his losses and make peace with it.

Then again, Jimin wasn’t very good at ducking his head and obeying commands. Especially when sympathetic eyes were leveled on him. He was hurt Yoongi would brush him off so easily, and even humiliate him in the process. So on the other hand, Jimin could stand and leave.

He did just that.

“Chim,” Taehyung said softly as Jimin stepped away from the table. “Wait for me.”

Jungkook grasped Taehyung’s shoulder with a shake of his head, urging him to leave the other omega be.

Jimin pulled the dark fur tighter around his shoulders, eyes stinging as he pushed through the mingling wolves, out into the darkening night air. God, it was cold, wind sharp against his cheeks. The sky was an expanse of white, no help to the numbness creeping along his fingers.

He walked hastily away from the dining hall, craving the seclusion and warmth of his bed. Jimin wanted to forget today. Today, and maybe this month, and who knows—maybe even this year too. These past weeks alone had been so draining. Jimin just wanted the worst of it to end.

Jimin buried his nose against the fur, frustrated over how strongly it smelled of Yoongi. He hadn’t even realized he’d started crying, tears falling cold against his skin. He sniffled and wiped furiously at his eyes. “Stop,” he told himself, picking up his pace. “Stop, stop, stop it, you idiot. Alphas aren’t worth your tears.”

A shiver wracked Jimin’s frame as the wind picked up, buffeting against him as he stumbled. “Stop,” he uttered a final time, voice broken with a sob.

“Jimin!”

The omega stiffened, biting his wobbling lip as he spun around. “No,” he shouted at Yoongi. “I am not talking to you right now. Let me go home and sleep.”

“You’re upset,” Yoongi said, shocked at Jimin’s evident crying.

“Yeah, I’m upset,” Jimin growled. “You were treating me like I was fucking hysterical. Do you know how humiliating that is? Try again when you’re ready to actually listen to me.”

Jimin tried to turn away, only to be yanked back by his bicep. “Jimin—”

“Don’t touch me!” Jimin snarled, wrenching himself away from Yoongi. He didn’t miss the look of hurt crossing Yoongi’s eyes. “It fucking sucks to be rejected, huh? To have your argument ignored and your partner push you away. Fucking stings, right?”

Jimin’s breathing was labored, white breath puffing out in front of him. Yoongi staggered back a step, conflicted. His omega was in distress, but he’d only make it worse by reaching out to him again. So he stayed put, brows drawn and chest tight.

“You know I’d never want to hurt you,” Yoongi said slowly. “You were just being very rude.”

Jimin shook his head in denial. “You really don’t believe me,” he said brokenly. “I got distracted today because she outright asked if you were mated. She touches you and you do nothing. She spreads her scent to get your attention. Those are clear signs of interest, and you’re just ignoring it. And for what? The sake of us hunters? You can’t pretend everything’s fine and peaceful.”

Yoongi pressed his lips together, watched Jimin with resignation.

“I thought, out of all the things going wrong right now, that I’d at least have my partner on my side. I shouldn’t have to worry about some pup trying to mate you. I’ve got a million other things on my mind, yet I have to fight this runt off while you just try to ignore it! I don’t care if it’s your duty to keep things friendly, to force us to get along.”

Jimin blinked back more tears, lip wobbling. “I can’t deal with this. All I wanna do is cry, but I can’t. Not when we’ve got humans out there, and winter on the horizon, and Tae’s pup, and... and...”

“I’m trying to see the best in Dasung. We need new hunters. You know that,” Yoongi said quietly.

Jimin swallowed a lump in his throat. “Right. Of course.”

“You’re shivering. Let’s just go inside—”

Jimin stepped back, eyes hardening. “I’ll go alone,” he whispered.

Yoongi’s lips parted in protest, battling with himself. Jimin knew he wanted to use force again. Priority one for an alpha was ensuring the safety and health of their omega. But Yoongi wasn’t a typical alpha. He was gentle and logical. He didn’t touch Jimin.

“Jimin, I’m sorry you thought I rejected you,” Yoongi said in a clear voice, words calculated.

Jimin wrapped his arms around himself. “There you go again, implying it’s only my impression of things,” he said bitterly. He shook his head. “I need space, Yoongi,” he then murmured, turning his back to avoid Yoongi’s reaction.

He set a straight path home, legs moving until he was up the steps, inside, in the comfort of his bed. Jimin tossed around for hours, stomach empty and brain clouded. When he did sleep, it was fitfully.

Jimin dreamt he was stumbling through empty, dark halls, vaguely recognizing the maze as the omega dorm. A candle would flicker in the path ahead of him, only to blow out the moment Jimin drew too close. Jimin was growing desperate, terrified at how vacant the silent building was. It felt unnatural, shadows creeping under his skin, seeping into his bones until it was a physical ache.

Jimin ran, fingertips skimming along the wall to make sure it was still there. There was a deep sense of dread within him, an inexplicable knowledge that something was wrong. He didn’t know who he was trying to reach, only that he needed to escape these lonely, lonely halls.

He stopped, a boom reverberating through the building, echoing in his skull and setting his arteries abuzz. The noise was too familiar for comfort, loud and piercing. In Jimin’s mind, the sound morphed into an entity of its own, looming like a predator—one he did not know how to kill.

☽○☾

“Are you sure this is a good idea? Just us and Seokjin in one room, with who knows how many knives?” Jimin asked Taehyung as they approached the dining hall late in the evening. The dinner crowd was long gone, but apparently Seokjin had invited his brother to come hang out while he baked cookies.

Jimin was still uneasy about Seokjin’s reaction to Taheyung’s news. He and Jungkook had told the elder the previous night, and according to Taehyung, Seokjin wasn’t angry.

“Just disappointed,” Taehyung had said with a shrug. “He gave the whole speech on how he’d expected better of me and all that. Didn’t say anything to Kook, though. Which was weird. Figured he’d be up in his face about responsibility and commitment and all that shit.”

“Maybe Jin’s softened over the years?” Jimin suggested, not quite believing it himself.

“Could be,” Taehyung had replied, a bit too naïvely. Jimin figured he was just happy to be over with it and to have left unscathed.

Yet now that they were entering the vacant hall, Jimin felt an odd twinge in his gut. They walked straight to the kitchen in the back, Taehyung humming absently as the scent of pastries hit them. Seokjin was by an oven when they stepped inside, greeting them with a mild smile.

“Is it cold out tonight?”

“Even colder than it’s been the past few days,” Jimin said. “The temperature’s dropped really harshly.”

Seokjin frowned. “I’ll need to sew a thicker coat for Haeju, then,” he mused to himself. “Sit down, boys. I’ll get you tea. And tell me how you’ve been, Jimin. I didn’t realize you’d be tagging along with Tae.”

“Well, when there’s a promise of cookies,” Jimin chuckled.

“Of course,” Seokjin said, sifting around the cupboards for two mugs. The tea was already made, and he poured it rather quickly, the ceramic soon sliding across the counter space to them. Taehyung leaned down to blow on his.

“Well, nothing’s gotten better, but I can’t exactly say things are worse either,” Jimin shrugged. “The hunters are tired. I’m tired. Animals seem to already be heading into hibernation. I’m starting to think we should do the same.”

“What a concept,” Taehyung sighed. “Sleeping for months at a time.”

“Sounds unproductive,” Seokjin commented. “Wolves live a certain way for a reason, you know. Everything has its purpose.”

“How sage of you,” Taehyung chuckled. Jimin narrowed his eyes at the older omega, that uneasy feeling returning to him in waves.

Seokjin placed a plate of cookies in front of Jimin directly, then watched him expectantly. Jimin picked it up slowly, eating while he met Seokjin’s eyes. Jimin wondered if he could communicate his distrust through his gaze alone.

“Taetae, how’s the morning sickness?” Jimin asked.

Seokjin flinched. Caught you, Jimin thought. Something was definitely up.

“Bad,” Taehyung bemoaned. “I can’t take the early shifts at work anymore. And my stomach’s upset like half the time. It sucks.”

“Maybe Jin has some suggestions on how to handle it,” Jimin said, tilting his head, observing the elder carefully.

Seokjin pursed his lips. He was catching on to Jimin too.

“Ginger. Ginger helps,” Seokjin said simply.

“Oh, think you could give me some?”

Seokjin paused. “Sure.”

“Hey, Tae,” Jimin said slowly, already easing out of his seat. “I forgot I have an early start tomorrow morning. Could you come back to the dorm with me?”

“Huh? I thought you were going out closer to noon,” Taehyung replied curiously.

“If Jimin needs to leave, he can manage alone. He’s a big boy,” Seokjin stated.

Jimin narrowed his eyes and leaned in. “Kim Seokjin, what the hell are you plotting?”

“I don’t know what you mean,” Seokjin said dully.

Jimin finally registered the footsteps clacking through the dining hall, nearing them at a quick pace.

“Taehyung,” a sharp voice addressed from the kitchen’s entryway.

Taehyung swiveled around in shock. “Eomma? What are you doing here?”

Kim Kyungmi’s lips were pursed, eyes steely. Her posture was perfectly straight as usual, chin tilted high, perpetually looking down at the rest of them. “I need to speak with you, and Seokjin told me you’d be here this evening.”

Jimin released a small hiss between his teeth, gaze snapping back to said omega. “You fucker—”

“No profanities, please, Jimin,” Kyungmi interrupted. “It’s unbecoming of a young omega.”

Taehyung was only just coming to, still reeling over the sudden appearance of his dreaded mother. He looked over at his brother, hurt and betrayal clear in his expression. “You told her.”

“I’m only doing what’s best for you,” Seokjin said, no sympathy in his tone.

Kyungmi grabbed the nape of Taehyung’s neck then, nearly dragging her son off his chair and out of the kitchen. “Come on, Taehyung. We have some matters to settle.”

“No fucking way,” Jimin growled, preparing to follow after them. Seokjin’s hand clamped down on Jimin’s wrist, not strong enough to really hold him in place, but still an effective distraction. “Let me go, Jin. Your mother’s as venomous as they come.”

“I meant what I said, Jimin,” Seokjin stated firmly. “I think Taehyung needs to hear her out. She can knock some real sense into him.”

“You don’t know what he needs,” Jimin retaliated. “Your parents are cold. They know nothing about their son, nor have they tried to learn. He doesn’t need to listen to her, because Taehyung knows what’s best for himself.”

Jimin snatched his arm back and stood. Seokjin quickly rounded the counter to step in front of him.

“Seriously?” Jimin snarled. “You think you’re going to physically stop me? You may be tall, but you’re not strong, Jin.”

“Just wait,” Seokjin said, a hint of desperation in his voice. “Understand that we don’t want Taehyung to have to deal with the repercussions of one mistake for the rest of his life. He can do so much better.”

“I don’t like what you’re suggesting,” Jimin said, worrying creeping between his ribs. He needed to get to Taehyung.

“You can’t be the only opinion in such important matters!”

“Are you kidding? I’m absolutely not. What about Jungkook, the father of that pup? What about his other friends, Hoseok and Yoongi? What about himself, for fuck’s sake. He came to his own decision because he’s an adult. He can’t stay under your parents’ thumb forever. He doesn’t have to be like you!”

Seokjin’s expression morphed into an ugly scowl. “I’ve made my own decisions too.”

“Great, then make one now and move. Your brother may not be prone to violence, but I don’t hesitate when it comes to forcing away obstacles,” Jimin said lowly, stepping up to the other omega. “Alright?”

Seokjin’s resolve wavered, a flicker behind his eyes before he stepped aside. “She wants him to abort the pup,” Seokjin said quietly.

Jimin’s eyes widened, heart stuttering to a halt. “What?”

“I figured it was the best option, but... I’m having second thoughts.”

“Oh my god,” Jimin gasped. He rushed past Seokjin, careening back into the dining hall to find Taehyung and his mother not far off. He stopped short, overwhelmed by the alpha pheromones permeating the air. His limbs felt heavy, entire body sluggish under an invisible weight.

Taehyung’s head was low, shoulders slumped as Kyungmi talked on and on.

“You can’t even be sure it’s his!”

“It’s his,” Taehyung mumbled.

“With all the alphas you trifle around with—”

“It’s his,” Taehyung repeated to deaf ears.

“—Well, a courtship with a Jeon doesn’t mean much anyway. It’s not worth the trouble, Taehyung. Don’t let him drag you down to his level. And what were you even thinking being with him in the first place? Do you have any idea how shameful that is to our family name?”

“I love him,” Taehyung said weakly.

“As if love has anything to do with it. I mated your father for the sake of the pack. You think he was in love when he left his pack for diplomacy’s sake? You think I was in love when I took him into my home? Of course not, but we owed a duty to our packs, and we brought honor to both our families. You’re a child, Taehyung,” she enunciated, pointing down at him with a scowl curling her lips. “Have you learned nothing of what’s expected of you? We could find you a suitable mate, you realize. As soon as that thing is gone, we’ll find you an alpha from a good family, preferably in a different pack. This place has done you no good.”

Taehyung blinked away his tears long enough to glance up at his mother, jaw slack as he processed what she said. “What do you mean by ‘gone?’ Gone where? My pup’s here,” Taehyung said, palm on his stomach. “I assure you it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.”

Kyungmi grimaced. “Oh, don’t call it a pup. You’ll only get more attached.”

“Why shouldn’t I get attached to my child?” Taehyung’s voice pitched.

“You’re getting rid of it,” Kyungmi said decidedly. “There are herbs to force your body to reject it. It’ll only hurt for a day or so, I hear, then it’s over. You can start anew, live a respectable life this time.”

Taehyung gaped, tears streaking his colorless face, eyes glassy and disbelieving.

Jimin stepped forward, internally screaming at himself to get to Taehyung and remove him from this awful, awful situation. His body was still reacting submissively to Kyungmi’s pheromones, though. He felt like he was swimming up river.

Then Taehyung wrapped his arms around his stomach in a protective motion. His gaze hardened, jaw tightened in a shocking act of defiance. “No,” he stated, unwavering.

Kyungmi blinked at him, as if she’d misinterpreted the sounds leaving Taehyung’s mouth. “Excuse me?”

“No!” Taehyung exclaimed, voice breaking. “No, no, no!” He backed away as he shouted, teeth bared and scent flaring with rage, disrupting the sea of pheromones rolling off of Kyungmi. “I’m done bowing my head to you! All you’ve done is criticize me for not being the perfect son. But I’m done. My own pup is where I draw the line!”

“Taehyung, calm yourself,” Kyungmi snarled.

Taehyung shook his head. “No fucking way. I’m tired of you looking down on me, insulting my mate, acting like every one of my decisions is wrong. They’re not wrong! Everything’s fucking fine! I’m got someone who loves me for exactly who I am! He doesn’t need me to change. Doesn’t need me to toughen up or uphold any damn honor.”

Taehyung’s chest heaved with his ragged breathing. “That’s what this is all about to you, isn’t it? Honor. Not about your kids or their happiness. Not even about your own happiness. You just wanna look good in front of everyone else. But guess what? The rest of us all think you’re a dick! A mean, selfish person who hurts anyone who doesn’t agree with you!”

“I’m the selfish one?” Kyungmi spat. “You ungrateful child. Everything I’ve done is for my family! I brought you and your brother up to be respectable wolves. I’m only trying to remedy your mistakes because I don’t want you to be ridiculed!”

Taehyung’s lips parted, brows drawn in genuine confusion. He straightened up, shoulders still tense with decades’ worth of weight and frustration. “Eomma,” he said slowly, voice rough but quieter than before. “How can you say that when you’re part of the problem?”

Kyungmi seemed to struggle for a response, gaze searching her son’s for some kind of fracture, any weakness she could take advantage of. That’s how abusive alphas kept the upper hand—they asserted dominance through the small, sharp things.

“If you’re really so scared of how everyone else will treat me, then shouldn’t you have been trying to change their minds? Instead, you tried to make me conform to what they think I’m supposed to be. Your solution is backwards, Kyungmi.”

“Taehyung,” she said hoarsely, running out of steam and any previous argument she may have been clinging to.

“No,” Taehyung said firmly. “I’m done.”

As Kyungmi’s pheromones faded, Jimin felt like he could properly breathe again. Regaining control of his body, Jimin rushed forward, grabbing Taehyung by the shoulders. He shot a scalding glare at the alpha before walking to the exit with Taehyung.

They kept walking for a long while, Taehyung high on adrenaline and Jimin desperate to get as far away from that scene as possible. He reminded himself to check on Taehyung, rubbing his arm soothingly and releasing his own pheromones as a familiar blanket.

Jimin pressed his nose to Taehyung’s hair. “I’m so proud of you,” Jimin murmured. “You’re so strong, Tae. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.”

“I won’t,” Taehyung breathed. “Not anymore.”

The sky was white once more overhead, the temperature harsh to their shivering forms. They were fast approaching the dorm. Jimin looked forward to snuggling up to Taehyung for the remainder of the night, pressed together until they felt warm and safe.

A biting wind blew past them, sharp against Jimin’s bare cheeks. Then something wet landed on his nose. Jimin slowed to a halt, Taehyung stopping along with him. They both looked up, basking in silent surprise as snowflakes fluttered down from the heavy clouds above, landing in their hair, on their coats, melting against their skin.

“Why’s the first snow so early?” Jimin whispered. He held out a hand, watching a dancing flake melt into a tiny drop of water on his palm. “Do you think it’s a good or bad omen?”

Taehyung shut his eyes and exhaled, snowflakes catching on his lashes as his breath fogged out before him. “Honestly…. I’d rather not think about it at all.”

Chapter Text

The Mins’ house was always so warm. The hunter couple collected many furs over the years, laying them out as rugs, throwing them over chairs, hanging them on walls. There was a black bear fur that Jimin especially liked, spread out in front of the fireplace.

Jimin was curled up on the rug one evening when he was about nine years old, Yoongi laying on his stomach beside him and reading a book. Sanghee was in the kitchen cooking dinner, glancing over at the boys occasionally to check up on them.

Jimin was having a hard time keeping his eyes open, the soft crackling of the fire lulling him into drowsiness. Jimin blinked languidly, watching Yoongi’s lips part around the words he was reading. He’d given up on peering over the elder’s shoulder, resigning himself to this idle state, passing the time until dinner was done.

“You brought a coat, right Jiminie? It’s gonna be cold when we walk you back,” Sanghee said.

“Mm,” Jimin mumbled. There was a time not long ago when Jimin would intentionally leave his coat at home so he’d have an excuse to borrow one of Yoongi’s. Although Jimin couldn’t explain why, he really like Yoongi’s scent. Jimin thought he smelled quite a lot like the dew that hung heavy on every blade of grass in the early mornings. And this fragrant wood that he couldn’t put a name to as well. He’d have to ask his mother what it was at some point.

A gust of cold air blew in as Daejung opened the door, throwing off his coat before he headed to the kitchen. Jimin shifted over to watch the alpha as he greeted his mate. He picked up one of the apple slices Sanghee was going to put into their dessert. Sanghee slapped his hand before he could nab another.

Daejung laughed, the sound hearty and low in his throat. Jimin liked Daejung’s laugh, wondered if Yoongi’s voice would be that deep and smooth when he grew up. Jimin liked Daejung in general, really. He was one of the fun adults, running around with pups in his wolf form, bringing back pretty stones and leaves from the forest, and teaching young wolves like Jimin to hunt. Well, it wasn’t technically hunting if they didn’t stray out into the forest. But Jimin knew how to properly crouch and sneak up on small animals!

Daejung was kind, too. Both of the Min mates were. They doted on Jimin even more than Hyunjae. They brought him occasional gifts and invited him over for many dinners and sleepovers. Sometimes, they felt like a second set of parents.

Daejung grinned sheepishly in response to Sanghee’s scowl. She pinched his arm and he tickled her in turn. Their brief spat devolved into giggles, noses eventually pressed to each other’s necks.

Now that Jimin was old enough to understand the concept of romantic love, he found himself wondering if he could love someone as much as the Mins loved each other. Jimin wanted a mate like that when he was grown up, someone who laughed with him and played around. He could only wonder who that mate would be.

Jimin glanced back at Yoongi. Jimin had been thinking about who Yoongi’s mate might be too, and finally decided that it must be Namjoon. Namjoon and Yoongi were really good friends, and they were both pretty calm. It made sense in Jimin’s head. Jimin just hoped he could still have sleepovers with Yoongi once he was mated, and maybe even keep borrowing his coats as well.

“Jimin,” Daejung greeted excitedly, stepping into the living room and kneeling beside him. “Is Yoongi not playing with you?”

“Reading,” Yoongi said simply, eyes not leaving the book in his grasp.

“Moody kid,” Daejung snickered, reaching over to ruffle his son’s hair. Yoongi batted his hand away. “It’s okay, I’ll play with Jiminie.”

Jimin sat up, eyes bright and expectant.

“You wanna see something cool, pup?” Daejung asked, already reaching to something attached to his belt. Jimin nodded reverently, excitement bubbling up. Daejung held out a sheathed knife. He pulled the blade out slowly, dark surface shimmering under the firelight. Jimin gaped. “Got this from the forge yesterday. New and clean and sharp.”

“It’s so pretty,” Jimin cooed.

“Pretty?” Daejung echoed in amusement with an arched brow.

“Yeah. It’s all glittery and stuff,” Jimin insisted. “Can I touch it?”

“Be careful!” Sanghee shouted from the kitchen.

“Sure. Just the flat part, though. Don’t want you to cut yourself on the edge,” Daejung said, holding the knife out steadily.

Yoongi moved toward them, peering over Jimin’s shoulder to take a look for himself.

“So now you want to hang out with us, huh?” Daejung teased.

“Now that you’re doing something interesting, yeah,” Yoongi grumbled.

Jimin reached over to run his fingertip along the smooth surface. “Do you think I can have one when I’m older?” Jimin mumbled. He pouted when he noticed the smudge he was leaving behind.

“If you ask your eomma, sure,” Daejung chuckled. “Not everyone carries knives around with them, though. Not unless you need one.”

“Am I gonna need one?”

“Hm, well, omegas tend to work with pups or in the kitchens. So, probably not,” Daejung nodded to himself.

“Dae,” Sanghee hissed, lingering near the living room. “Omegas can do whatever they want.”

“You think I’m an omega?” Jimin slowly asked.

“Everyone does, baby,” Sanghee said mirthfully, watching him with a fond look. “Sooyun especially. But that’s a good thing. Omegas are kind and strong.”

“Strong like hunters,” Jimin said. “If omegas can be anything, can I be a hunter like you?”

“Of course, Jimin,” Daejung replied. “I guess in that case, you’d want a pretty knife, huh?”

“Mm,” Jimin uttered, touch moving toward the sharp edge.

Yoongi’s hand flitted over to Jimin’s, fingers wrapping around the younger’s to carefully pry them off the blade. “Don’t cut yourself,” he whispered.

Daejung stared at Yoongi for a long moment, a smile eventually dawning in his expression. “There you go, Yoon. Always be gentle with omegas.”

Jimin sat back, pressed to Yoongi’s front due to the elder’s proximity. “Are you gonna be an alpha, Yoonie?” Jimin asked.

“Dunno,” Yoongi shrugged. “Don’t really care.”

“Really?” Daejung asked curiously. “When I was your age, pups were really passionate about what they wanted to be. Huh, Sang?”

“Yeah,” Sanghee called. “Real dead-set. It was funny when things didn’t turn out their way, though. I think it’s good to have an open mind. Otherwise you’re stuck trying to make do with a body you weren’t expecting to have.”

“Wise words from a wise woman,” Daejung nodded sagely, laughing when his mate rolled her eyes.

“I can be Jimin’s mate either way, so whatever,” Yoongi said simply, shifting to his feet as he started to smell food.

“My mate?” Jimin asked loudly. “Not Joonie’s?”

Yoongi wrinkled his nose and looked down at Jimin. “Namjoon as my mate? No way. All he talks about are the different classes of herbs. He’d just be boring.”

“Then what about Seokjin? He follows you around a lot.”

“He just wants someone to boss around. He does that to his brother too, y’know.”

Sanghee laughed awkwardly. “How about you both write Kyungmi’s sons off your lists. The Kims are a whole lot of baggage.”

“But I like Taetae,” Jimin pouted.

“He can still be your friend,” Sanghee cooed.

Jimin hummed and puffed out his cheeks. “I guess that’s fine, as long as Yoonie’s my mate instead.”

Daejung and Sanghee shared a glance, the former breaking into snickers. He brushed a hand through Jimin’s fluffy hair. “Sounds like a good deal to us.”

Sanghee smiled fondly at Jimin, then retreated back toward the kitchen. “Go wash up, boys. Dinner’s ready.”

☽○☾

Jimin struggled to wake. He groaned against the muted sunlight, eyes already stinging and body still heavy with sleep. It was mid-November and the hunters had been working their asses off to collect food. Although snowfalls were still sparse and light, they served as an ominous reminder of what was soon to come.

Jimin knew he and the others were being overworked, yet he pushed through as promised, distracting himself from the physical pain with drunk late nights. Jimin had even started to create a stash of alcohol in his room, unwilling to sneak into the kitchens anytime he was in search of a buzz.

Jimin untangled himself from his sheets and slid off the bed, barely conscious as he collected a towel and his soaps to go bathe. He resisted glancing back at the empty bed, didn’t want to dwell on the sight of Yoongi’s side, left untouched for weeks now. Instead, he walked swiftly out of his room, barely even registering the wolves he passed by on his way to the communal bath.

There was idle chatter echoing around the room as Jimin entered. Jimin yawned and set his things down by the edge, slowly disrobing before easing himself into the warm water. He exhaled as he sank in, submerging himself up to his chin, eyes shut.

Jimin dunked his head and began washing his hair when he felt ripples in the water, someone moving closer. Jimin wiped water and suds away from his eyes, squinting as a familiar scent approached him. Jimin wrinkled his nose.

“Good morning, Jimin,” Dasung said cheerily, tilting her head and observing him, keeping herself afloat in deeper waters. “I’m really excited for training today. You think there’ll be more ice from how cold last night was?”

“I assume so,” Jimin said curtly, ducking down to rinse his hair. What an uncomfortable position to be cornered in.

“It’s too bad you and the head hunter aren’t talking. Otherwise you could charm him into giving us better grounds today. It’s so rough out west,” she pouted, an edge to her innocent tone. “Y’know, I would give it a try, but it’s hard to seduce someone once you know their preferred body type.”

Jimin scowled. “What the fuck are you on about?”

“I’m just saying you have some meat on your bones and I’m, well, I’m very thin. My eomma used to say that was a good thing, but now I’m starting to question it if Yoongi likes curvy omegas—”

“Do you honestly think I have the patience for this?” Jimin said dully.

“I’m sorry to upset you? I’m just making friendly small talk with a coworker,” Dasung stated, watching him with an unreadable expression.

Jimin lowered his voice. “I don’t care if you’re an impulsive liar, or whatever the hell. But cut the shit. I’m so fucking tired of it, Dasung.” He turned around, intending to cut off the conversation entirely.

Jimin was washing his arms and torso when he heard Dasung humming behind him, the girl having yet to leave. Jimin reminded himself not to snap at her. She wasn’t worth the stress at this point, not with everything else going awry.

“What, you’re saying you don’t play nice to get your way, too?” Dasung said with evident mirth lining her voice. “Don’t act like you’re above me.”

Jimin pinched his brow. He turned toward her slowly, definitely not awake enough for this. “It’s not about superiority. You just annoy me, plain and simple. You know, it’s rude to thrust yourself into people’s relationships, pup. Didn’t your parents ever teach you to cut your losses and deal with it?”

Dasung narrowed her eyes. “Not really. They were more concerned with teaching me how to cook and clean. Please a mate. Figure I should put those skills to use somehow.”

While Jimin understood the bitterness in her voice, he refused to shake the distaste he felt over her actions as a whole. “You know Yoongi and I are courting,” Jimin said slowly, anger licking at his belly as she remained silent, withholding a protest. “So why do you keep forcing yourself upon him?”

Dasung bit the inside of her cheek and bounced in the water, rolling her response over her tongue in a blasé manner. “Because strong omegas take what we want,” Dasung said firmly, meeting Jimin’s gaze. “And I happen to want the head hunter.”

Jimin’s lips parted, shocked into a moment of silence over her sudden honesty. When he finally processed her words, he released a dry laugh, face pinched. “Do you really not care about who you’re hurting in the process? Do you have any fucking sense of compassion?”

Dasung snorted, crossing her arms. “What good does compassion do, Jimin? If we don’t force our hand, we’ll never get what we want out of life. That’s just how it is for omegas. You of all people should know.”

Then, like a ringing in the back of his skull, Jimin was struck with a solemn realization. There was a lot of Jimin in Dasung. She resembled him from his stubborn strength to his selfish will. That thought hurt him more than he’d like to ponder.

Jimin sighed and pushed away the wet strands of hair falling in his face. “There’s a difference between asserting yourself and straight up taking things. I think your view of it is pretty immature. Not that I’m one to lecture anyone on maturity...” Jimin worried his lip, then took a deep breath. “You’ve got some lessons to learn on growing up, and god do I hope they hit you fast.”

Jimin pulled himself up out of the water, Dasung’s gaze scrutinizing, yet confused all in one. Jimin wrapped himself in his towel and gathered his things, padding toward the exit without sparing another word.

Jimin soon found himself back in his room, irately rifling through his clothes. He opted for layers of sweaters and coats rather than one of his heavy furs that smelled overpoweringly of Yoongi. Jimin huffed as he tugged everything on, brushing through his hair with a permanent frown. He stepped back from his vanity, gaze lingering toward the bottom drawer of his dresser.

Jimin bit his lip in contemplation. Wind rattled his window, breaking the lapse of silence that had overtaken his room. He was very aware of the tension in his body, the seemingly ever-present tightness in his throat and clenching of his heart.

Jimin was a responsible hunter, he told himself. It would just be once. No one would notice.

Jimin lurched forward, tugging open the drawer and rifling around for the scotch stored inside. He quickly uncapped the bottle and shot down a swig, lowering it and turning to his mirror to stare at his colorless reflection.

There was laughing out in the hall, a group of omegas leaving the dorm, reminding Jimin he needed to eat something before heading to work.

Jimin stuck his hand back into the drawer, retrieving a small flask he barely used. He’d taken it from his parents’ house when he was much younger, back when he wasn’t supposed to be drinking at all, and the entire ordeal was a youthful adventure. Jimin smirked at the memories of he and Taehyung sneaking out of the dorm, sitting under the cover of trees and stars as they gossiped about the newly presented alphas. God, did Jimin miss those days.

He poured scotch into the flask and sealed it, slipping it into his coat before he put everything back in order. He slipped out of his room and the dorm, swiftly walking toward the dining hall.

An old, thin layer of snow crunched underfoot. The skies were starting to be cloudy on most days, outside temperature numbing any exposed skin. If Jimin didn’t know any better, he’d guess they were already creeping upon the dead of winter.

Jimin approached the chatter of the dining hall, double doors only propped rather than thrown wide open. Jimin pushed a door a few inches back to peek through, hoping to avoid a few certain wolves and stick to Taehyung’s side. He spotted Taehyung with their usual crowd of hunters, though, both Yoongi and Dasung occupying the same table.

Jimin’s breathing quickened, ticked that Dasung had managed to get here so quickly, and that she still had the audacity to sit up against Yoongi. Jimin’s jaw clenched as he backed away a couple steps, veering off to the side despite his body urging him to seek warmth inside. He moved slowly to the wall, slumping up against it and burying his hands inside his jacket.

Jimin pulled out the flask and uncapped it with deft fingers, too tired, tired, tired to give a fuck about repercussions.

He thought about the footsteps they’d found days ago in the light layer of snow in the southeast, how the imprints were from boots, but most definitely not their own. Hunters only strayed that far in their wolf forms. Stumbling upon that blatant sign of human activity in person had been jarring for Jimin.

The omega had been following a trail, scents muted by the forest’s frozen state, when he was quite suddenly faced with the imprints. Right down past his nose. He’d reeled back, Hoseok bumping into him as Jimin stared at the footprints, confused brain catching up to him, processing the inevitable. His heart was stuck in his throat for days after.

The flask was half empty when Jimin resurfaced from the memory. He squinted down at the small container, shaking it a bit to affirm that he’d really downed that much so carelessly. Jimin flinched when he heard snow crack nearby. He swiveled around to find an alpha approaching him.

“Jimin! Hi,” the alpha greeted, much too cheery for this early in the morning and the weather looming around them.

“Hey?” Jimin replied in confusion.

“You don’t remember who I am again,” the alpha sighed with disappointment. “Sunwoon. From the bonfire?”

Jimin’s brows pinched together, eyes narrowed in contemplation. Oh, that alpha. Jimin held back a frown. “Right. The one who says we went to school together.”

“Wow, you remembered something,” he said in a tone that was probably meant to be joking, but really only sounded patronizing to Jimin’s groggy ears.

“Uh huh,” Jimin mumbled. He looked away and recapped his flask, trying to slip it back into his coat inconspicuously.

“So, uh, word around here is that you and Min broke off your courtship.”

Jimin wrinkled his nose. “If that’s what he’s telling people, he needs to look me in the eye and say it to me before it’s official,” Jimin grumbled. He huddled into his coat and glared out at the expanse of white territory before them.

“Oh, I didn’t hear it from him personally. It’s just a rumor.”

“Then everyone can stick the rumor up their asses. My relationship is my business, yeah?”

“Yeah,” Sunwoon said slowly, an awkward tinge to his tone.

“Look, man. If you’re talking to me ‘cause you wanna fuck, you’re not exactly in luck. I only fuck during heats and my next one is a month away.”

Sunwoon gaped. “N-no, that’s not—”

“Your intention? But isn’t it everyone’s? We’re all a bunch of sad fuckers just trying to get laid.”

The alpha shifted on his feet, most definitely questioning his decisions up until this point. “I mean, you’re not wrong.”

“I know. You should hear the omega dorm in the spring. The pollen seems to really get to people,” Jimin scowled. He shook his head. “Anyway, better luck with someone else. I’ve got places to be and people to avoid.”

Jimin stepped around him, mustering up the courage to enter the dining hall with his head high. Jimin shouldered open the door and exhaled in relief as a wave of warm air hit his face. There was a clatter from a table in the distance, Jimin barely having time to register it before he was staggering back, arms wrapped tightly around his shoulders and a heavy body pressed to his front.

“Chim!” Taehyung squealed, pulling away an inch to grin at him. “Guess what?”

“Uh, you’re way too awake?”

Taehyung giggled. “Sure. But there’s something else! I actually got up a lot earlier this morning, ‘cause Kook and I had a scheduled meeting with the elders.”

Jimin’s eyes widened, catching on to Taehyung’s news. “Tae, really?” He gasped.

Taehyung nodded vigorously, absolutely beaming. “Yup! Our mating appeal was approved!”

He hugged Jimin even tighter this time, Jimin returning the embrace in full. “Oh my god, I thought it was gonna be really stressful and unpleasant, but most of the wolves were really nice! This one woman couldn’t stop rambling about how beautiful our pup is gonna be!” Taehyung said, face crinkled up in elation. “They said we can mate in a week.”

“That’s—that’s so soon,” Jimin stammered, holding his smile up as he realized what that meant. In just a week, Taehyung would no longer be living in the dorm with him. He’d be mated, in his own house, starting his own family. Jimin’s breath hitched in his throat.

Thankfully, Taehyung didn’t notice Jimin’s hesitation, merely talking on about the entire thing.

“Of course, that also means we’ll need a place to live in a week. That’s no time for Kook to build a cabin, but we’re looking into living in an empty one. He said his parents will probably want to help him furnish it, so I think in the end we’ll be fine.”

Jimin nodded dumbly, mind working slowly, gears in his head rusting over as the scotch kicked in. But Jimin managed to focus on Taehyung, tried to get swept up in his excitement. He didn’t look at Yoongi. Jimin told himself, despite the attention they were drawing, he wouldn’t look at Yoongi.

They were preparing to set out on their hunt, idling around as they awaited their territory assignment from Yoongi. Hoseok was explaining to Jungkook how to match a set of sheets to a comforter, the younger’s brows drawn as he listened intently. Jimin watched them with mild interest, still having a hard time processing everything they were saying.

“Dude, do you even know how to mount a fur on the wall?”

“Why would you put furs on the wall?” Jungkook retorted, genuinely confused.

“Insulation,” Jimin said after a beat, vaguely remembering Sanghee’s explanation many, many years ago. “You can take ‘em down in the summer. Unless they’re thin, then you leave ‘em up for decoration.” Wow, he had a hard time wrapping his heavy tongue around that last word. The alphas didn’t seem to notice his momentary struggle.

“Huh, I guess that makes sense,” Jungkook drawled.

Dasung nudged Jimin, startling him. “D’you think we’ll find more human tracks?”

Jimin pursed his lips. “Fuckin’ hope not. You don’t wanna fight one of them, pup. Boom. Blood. Dead.”

Dasung wrinkled her nose. “I’m not entirely sure what that means, but the mental image I’ve got from it isn’t pleasant.”

“Good. Shouldn’t be,” Jimin mumbled.

Yoongi walked over then, speaking directly to Hoseok in his usual low timber. Jimin stared at a nearby stump, trying to decipher the sounds coming out of the alpha’s mouth. Why was it so much harder when his voice was smooth like that?

“Jimin, are you listening?”

Jimin stumbled over himself a bit, trying to swerve around to face Yoongi. Yoongi’s look of suspicion only worsened.

“Yeah,” Jimin said simply, fixing his gaze on Hoseok’s shoulder this time.

“Look at me.”

“Why?” Jimin huffed. “No reason to.”

He felt cold fingers brush against his skin before Yoongi gripped his chin, turning Jimin toward him. He examined Jimin with narrowed eyes.

“Don’t touch me,” Jimin growled, wriggling out of his grasp and scrambling back with an evident unsteadiness to his step.

“Your eyes are unfocused, you reek of alcohol. You’re drunk,” Yoongi said, voice laced with disbelief. “You actually showed up to hunt intoxicated. I cannot verbally express how disappointed I am.”

“Oh, right. Because your opinion actually matters,” Jimin retorted, words starting to slur together.

“Jimin,” Yoongi coldly addressed. “Go home.”

Jimin balked at him, neck hot despite the biting temperature. “How ‘bout you go fuck yourself?”

Hoseok and Jungkook worked in sync, grabbing both of Jimin’s arms and bodily hauling him away from a seething Yoongi. “Okay, time to go,” Hoseok said tersely, ignoring Jimin’s futile struggling.

“Wait, I’m not done with him,” Jimin said, the words sounding more like a whine than anything else.

“Jimin, if you know what’s good for you, you’ll go home and sleep this off,” Hoseok sighed, stopping when they were out of ear shot of the other hunters. “Sober up, think through how irresponsible you’ve been. Then maybe apologize if you don’t want Yoongi to be pissed at you for the next millennia.”

“I dunno why he’s acting so haughty. ‘M not even drunk! And it’s just one time. Never done this before.”

“I know, that’s why it’s crazy weird,” Jungkook replied. “Seriously. Get yourself together and figure out what this is,” he gestured to Jimin as a whole.

Jimin scowled and wrenched himself free from their lax grips. “Whatever,” he grumbled. “You’re gonna have a hard time tracking without me.”

“I get the sense it’d actually be harder with you today,” Hoseok retorted.

Jimin scowled and waved them off, walking back toward the main territory. He stopped when he reached a beaten path, turning away from the direction of the dorm without much thought. Jimin seemed to be following his own legs, trudging past communal buildings, then cabins, until he was ascending a small hill.

Jimin found himself in front of his parents’ front door.

He still had yet to talk to Sooyun. But once he knocked, Sooyon opened up and fixed him with a concerned look. “Jimin...” she murmured, taking in his tired appearance.

Jimin’s lip wobbled, eyes growing glassy. “Eomma,” he whimpered, falling into her weakly when Sooyun rushed forward to wrap him in a hug.

“Oh, baby boy. What sort of trouble have you gotten yourself into this time?”

☽○☾

Sooyun made Jimin sit down and explain his problems, constantly refilling his water and urging him to drink throughout. Jimin eventually sprawled out on the rug by the fireplace, closing his eyes for a moment, only to drift into a long nap.

Sooyun left him be, going about her day normally, glancing back at Jimin every so often with a sigh. Hours passed before Jimin was roused by anything, the sound of the front door startling him into consciousness. Jimin blinked the bleariness out of his eyes, shifting over to look at the entryway.

Hyunjae was shrugging off her coat, brow arched at Jimin. “Sooyun, why’s your son moping on the floor?”

“He’s having romantic troubles with Yoongi, didn’t react well to it, and got scolded,” Sooyun said, stepping into the living room with a hand on her hip. “Now he’s fighting the alcohol in his system.”

“Day drinking?” Hyunjae said.

“More like morning drinking,” Jimin mumbled.

“Sounds like that was a pretty stupid idea, huh?”

Jimin groaned and rolled over, pressing his cheek into the rug. “Yoongi and Eomma already chewed me out enough.”

“I didn’t exactly make the best decisions when I was young,” Hyunjae said.

“Shocker,” Sooyun muttered.

“I wasn’t finished,” Hyunjae protested, frowning at her mate. “Anyway, one lesson I learned is to pause and assess what you’re doing. Just take a moment and ask yourself, ‘would this be a stupid thing to do?’ And if the answer’s yes, then you don’t do it.”

“Enlightening,” Jimin sighed. “Look, I own up to the fact that it was irresponsible. But it’s not like I’m actually a bad hunter. I fucked up once. It happens.”

“But what are you going to do about it?” Sooyun prompted.

Jimin threw his hands up in surrender. “I don’t know. I’ll figure it out at some point.”

“I’d start with an apology,” Hyunjae suggested. She stepped around the living room, heading toward the hall.

“To who? Yoongi? He’s being a dick. I don’t think he deserves an apology right now.”

“If he really hasn’t been doing the right thing, even better reason for you to be the bigger wolf here. Lead by the example. You know, that’s the first tip to parenting,” Sooyun stated.

“What if I don’t want to talk to him at all? Seems like he’s always with that annoying pup these days. She’s so rude and selfish, Eomma,” Jimin whined, donning a pout.

Sooyun walked over, stopping beside Jimin to kneel down. She ran her fingers through his hair, lips pursed. “When you really love someone, you make the effort to talk it out, Jimin. Even if it’s rough or awkward at first, you have to do it. Otherwise it only gets worse and worse.”

“How are you so smart,” Jimin grumbled, resting an arm over his eyes.

“Raising you has taught me a lot about patience,” Sooyun said with a hint of mirth. “And many other things too that come with parenting.”

“I thought Jihyun was the difficult child.”

“Jihyun’s never been as social as you, as adventurous or stubborn.”

“He’s pretty stubborn,” Jimin argued weakly.

Sooyun laughed, the sound raspy and light. “Then maybe you both got that from me.”

Jimin breathed in deeply, basking under the heat of the fireplace. His thoughts kept circling back to that word—selfish. How it permeated Dasung’s behavior, her entire ideology. But it struck a chord with Jimin personally, because that’s what he was at his core. Jimin had always thought, since he was allowed the freedom to, that he should do what he wanted and take what was available.

He was privileged enough to have friends that put up with him, an alpha that had loved him since before he’d even presented. Jimin was given the space to be whatever he set his mind to. The repercussions of his actions had never been serious enough for Jimin to really reflect on what he was doing.

Jimin wanted to be Yoongi’s whole world. He expected Yoongi to always listen, to always go along with what he wanted. Maybe it had been naïve to expect a perfect partner, to not try to understand Yoongi’s shortcomings. Because in the end they were all flawed. Jimin wished he had understood that fact sooner.

Yet there was also another matter Jimin had been incredibly selfish about, involving the woman by his side, doting on him since the moment he showed up on her doorstep.

“Eomma,” Jimin whispered, face still covered. She hummed in response. “I... I never really apologized for upsetting you that night in the infirmary.”

Sooyun sucked in a breath, touch stalling against his hair. “Oh, Jimin, it’s okay—”

“But it’s not,” Jimin protested, lips tilted down. He struggled to sit up, looking her in the eye once he’d managed to prop himself up on his arms. “You never hesitate to help me. You’re so kind and... and I take advantage of that. That night, I-I was being selfish and just plain mean. I accept that now. And you definitely didn’t deserve it—don’t deserve it. I’m really so sorry—”

Sooyun lurched forward and pulled Jimin into a hug, running a soothing hand along his back. “It’s alright, my sweet boy,” she said quietly, a waver in her voice. “I love you so, so much. I forgive you.”

☽○☾

“God, I’ve been hungry for hours,” Hoseok complained as they finished dressing themselves.

Jimin’s body was wracked with a belated shiver as he pulled his last coat around himself tighter.

“Did you not eat this morning?” Jungkook asked, stepping around them and walking backwards as they left the cover of the shed.

“No. I overslept,” Hoseok said. “I think my rut’s getting close. All I wanna do is sleep.”

“Really? I have a hard time sleeping when my heat’s coming up,” Jimin commented.

Dasung scurried after them, nearly bumping into Jungkook in her haste. “I think it’s counterproductive, but I can barely hold any food down.”

Jimin nodded along. “Every aspect of a heat sucks.”

“I think they’re fun,” Jungkook joked.

Jimin lightly punched his bicep. “Of course you’d say that. You’re not the one who’s perpetually uncomfortable.”

“Heats must be at least a little better when you have a partner,” Dasung said. She was looking at Jimin.

Jimin shrugged. “He makes me eat.”

“Seriously? That’s all you can say? Maybe you’re taking advantage of what you’ve got,” Dasung said, an edge to her tone. “No wonder it’s so easy for him to shrug you off.”

Jimin bit the inside of his cheek and focused on his steps, one foot in front of the other. Do not strangle the girl.

“If I had an alpha like that, I’d constantly be thanking him for his kindness and consideration.”

“And yet you don’t,” Jimin said coldly.

“Not yet.”

“What the fuck is that supposed to mean?”

“Nothing,” Dasung chuckled. “Why do you take every comment so personally?”

“Because you’re clearly prodding at me,” Jimin enunciated.

Dasung hummed, then shook her head. “Yoongi’s right. You’re delusional.”

Hoseok glanced back at them with a worried expression. “Hey, maybe let’s not—”

“You wanna run that by me again, pup?” Jimin hissed. “You must be lying again. Yoongi would never talk badly about me. Especially not in front of an annoying runt like you.”

“I’m starting to feel attacked,” Dasung said mockingly, hand over her heart. “Why would I lie about the many conversations I’ve had with the head hunter? It’s not like I’m set out to ruffle your fur.”

Jimin laughed, the sudden sound harsh and dry. “You’re so infuriating, I’m actually at a loss for words.”

“If they were alphas, they could just brawl this out and be over with it,” Jungkook muttered to Hoseok. The two omegas heard it anyway, both stalling in their steps.

“That’s not a bad idea,” Dasung said slowly, facing Jimin. “Maybe I can convince you to stop treating me like a kid.”

“I don’t know about this,” Hoseok tried to interject.

“I’m fine showing you just how in over your head you are,” Jimin retorted.

Dasung smirked and began tugging off her coat. “No,” Jimin stated. “Not in our wolf forms. We do it like this.”

Dasung visibly hesitated, face falling. “What?”

“Wolf forms let you hide behind teeth and claws.”

“Yeah, but that—that’s how you fight. What good does anyone do on two legs?”

“Fighting without built-in weapons takes tactics and quick thinking. Don’t you think that’s more fair?” Jimin questioned, knowing full well he was cornering Dasung. “You feel vulnerable in this state, don’t you? The most you know how to do is snap your teeth at something’s legs or neck.”

“That’s what I’ve been taught so far,” Dasung said uneasily.

Jimin crossed his arms. “Then consider this a different kind of lesson, because real combat is so much more than that. You said yourself that you’re a strong omega, right? Well, part of an omega’s strength is their brain, Dasung.”

Jimin watched her, the way she clutched at her sleeves, her wandering eyes, searching from an escape from this uncomfortable situation that Jimin had roped her into. “We’re a lot alike, aren’t we?” Jimin murmured, Dasung’s attention whipping back to him, her brows drawn. “Confident until someone proves us wrong.”

“I thought you hated me. Why compare us?” Dasung said with dry mirth, genuinely confused.

“I figured you saw the similarities too. Manipulative and head-strong. But most importantly, selfish.” Jimin stepped toward her, Dasung stumbling back a step in response. “I didn’t really think about these bad parts of me until I saw them in you. So, thanks for showing me, I suppose.”

“A-are we fighting or not?” Dasung stubbornly retorted.

“Can you handle that?”

“I’ll figure it out,” Dasung hissed.

Jimin lurched forward, startling the girl. She lost her footing and fell backward, landing on her bum. Dasung stared up at Jimin, doe-eyed.

Jimin shook his head. “No, think this stuff through. Be smart, Dasung. That’s how you grow up and get stronger.” He held out his hand to help her back up, but Dasung only curled her lip, her blatant dissatisfaction a rejection in itself. So Jimin pulled his hand back, tucking it into the pocket of his jacket. Jimin sighed.

Clouds were gathering overhead again, darker than they had been in days. Jimin was ready to get inside.

“Alright. Come find me when you are ready to fight, then. I’ll be doing some growing up of my own in the meantime.” Jimin’s expression eased into sympathy as he stepped around her, set back on his path to the dining hall.

Chapter Text

Jimin folded up the last shirt and tucked it into a woven basket, already filled with piles of clothes. He huffed in exhalation and looked around the relatively bare room, a twinge of sadness settling in his chest. “So that’s it,” he murmured, glancing at Taehyung.

Taehyung hovered over the empty drawer of his dresser, expression blank as he ran his fingertips along the edge.

“How do you feel?”

“It’s... bittersweet,” Taehyung whispered. “Doesn’t it feel like we just moved in? I can’t believe it’s been years and—and now I’m getting mated. Tomorrow. It’s weird.”

Jimin walked back to the bare mattress, settling down as he watched Taehyung follow along. “You’re excited though, right?”

“Of course,” Taehyung replied, voice pitched. “But I’m gonna miss you. Can’t sneak into your room whenever I want, or hide your towel while we’re bathing.”

Jimin wrinkled his nose. “That second one’s a benefit. And we can still take baths together. You just can’t take your mate along.”

Taehyung chuckled. “Fair.” He leaned back onto his palms, mild smile waning. “This whole thing is so different from what I had pictured. I mean, pup aside, I always figured you’d be mated a while before me.”

Jimin looked down at his lap and fiddled with his fingers. “Me too.”

“Is it getting any better?” He asked softly. “I don’t see her trailing after him as much.”

“It is better,” Jimin admitted. “We’re not really talking. The last real conversation we had was when I begrudgingly apologized for showing up to work sorta drunk. But, yeah... Either I scared Dasung a bit or Yoongi’s really catching on to her game. I saw him actually, physically pushing her away from his side at dinner a couple nights ago. So, it’s something.”

“He should still apologize for not believing you in the first place,” Taehyung grumbled.

Jimin shrugged. “He’s trying to find a balance between his duty a-and me. I’m not surprised I’ve taken second priority. We can all see what this human thing is doing to him. He’s trying way too hard to keep the hunters in line so we don’t—” Jimin sucked in a breath. “Lose another. And that desperation makes him do stupid things.”

“Like ignoring Dasung’s advances.”

“Right,” Jimin mumbled. “I think he’s really starting to understand how much it’s hurting me, though. And I’m glad. I’ll take what I can get at this point.”

Taehyung shook his head in sympathy and patted Jimin’s thigh. “Sorry. I’d go beat him up if there was any chance of me winning that fight.”

Jimin laughed airily. “Nuh uh, you gotta watch out for your pup now, Tae.”

Taehyung broke into a grin. “Yeah I guess you’re right.” He smoothed a palm over his belly, then grasped the hem to pull it up. “I might have a tiny bump now?”

“But you’re so early on,” Jimin said, looking at Taehyung’s bare stomach, flat and soft. “You’ve never been all that fit. Maybe it’s just those cakes you’ve been eating.”

Taehyung nudged him with an affronted expression. “Here, feel,” he insisted, grabbing Jimin’s hand and placing it on his stomach. “Firm, huh? That’s no extra lining of fat.”

Jimin smiled, rubbing his belly. “How far along are you supposed to be?”

“Well, it’s been over two months since my last heat,” he said quietly.

“Are your nipples sensitive yet?”

“Chim!” Taehyung gasped.

“What?” Jimin chuckled. “I heard that happens!”

“Sure, later on,” Taehyung grumbled, pushing Jimin’s hand away and pulling his shirt back down. “How about you just hurry up and experience it yourself? Our pups can grow up together.”

Jimin shook his head. “There’s too much to be done, and I can’t hunt while I’m pregnant.”

Taehyung pouted. “What? So I’m gonna be on my third before you’re even thinking about your first?”

“Wait, how many pups are you planning on popping out?”

“I don’t know, as many as I can?” Taehyung snickered. Jimin shoved him with a roll of his eyes.

“Have you talked about this with your mate-to-be?”

“Oh, like he cares. He’s out in the woods with you half the time anyway.”

“He’ll have to take time off when the pup’s born. It’s ridiculous to expect you to handle it on your own,” Jimin protested.

“True, but I am the somewhat experienced one.”

“You’re gonna be sore, though. And tired and hungry and whiny—”

“I get it. It’s gonna suck,” Taehyung sighed. “But I’m gonna have a pup to cuddle! One that hopefully looks a lot like my Kookie.”

Jimin smiled softly. “Yeah, of course.”

There was a hesitant knock at Taehyung’s door—an unexpected visitor. Jimin met Taehyung’s eyes, both of their expressions quizzical.

“What?” Taehyung called, scooting up to the edge of the bed.

The door creaked open, Seokjin stepping in slowly. Taehyung immediately stiffened up and Jimin’s lip curled into a snarl.

“No, absolutely not,” Jimin stated, pointing at the hall. “Out. He doesn’t need to deal with your shit right now.”

“No, I—” Seokjin said quickly, already flustered. “I came here to apologize.”

“Weeks late?” Jimin growled. “Bullshit.”

“Jimin,” Seokjin groaned. “Just let me talk to my brother.”

“I don’t trust you, so I’m staying right here,” Jimin said, watching him through narrowed eyes.

Seokjin’s shoulders slumped as he sighed. He glanced around the empty room anxiously, hands clasped in front of him. “I know I should have done this sooner, b-but it took Joon a lot of time to really talk sense into me.”

Taehyung was guarded, arms wrapped around his stomach. “And?” He quietly asked.

“Things turned out for me well. I did it all the traditional way, how we were supposed to. And I thought, because it worked for me, it has to for you, too. But what Eomma did, what she told you... it sort of shook me up. Jimin was right. I-I don’t always make my own decisions.”

“No shit,” Jimin grumbled.

Seokjin gave him an exasperated look. “This is hard for me, alright? Just let me talk.”

Jimin rolled his eyes. “Fine.”

Seokjin huffed and straightened himself up, evidently uncomfortable under their scrutinizing stares. “I let Eomma dictate my life because that’s how I was raised. There was never a reason for me to break away from that. I wanted to be with the pack alpha, I wanted to be the perfect omega. You didn’t, though, and I couldn’t wrap my head around that for a long time.

“Joon and I argued a lot soon after that whole ordeal. You getting rid of the pup wasn’t my idea, but I didn’t tell Eomma no. I didn’t stand up for myself, and my mate was mad at me for that. Like he said, this pack has worked so hard to create a place where omegas are safe, where they can do what they want, i-instead of what’s expected of them. I thought I was on board with that idea, at least until it came to my own family. And that was hypocritical of me.

“I didn’t consider the impact of my actions enough. Not until I started to really picture you with a pup, what that could mean. I wondered how you’d raise it differently than Haeju. Haeju—” He stopped, throat tight. “He’s what really got me. I had to think about how I want to raise him. He could be an omega and I don’t... I don’t want him to ever feel like he doesn’t belong, in his pack or his family, for whatever path he chooses. I want him to feel loved and respected, no matter what.”

Seokjin looked down, eyes glassy. “You weren’t treated like that, and I didn’t help the situation, because I was comfortable enough where I was at. And I’m sorry. I’m really so sorry, Tae. I can’t imagine how upset you are with me, but I wanted to get this out before your mating ceremony. As Head Omega, I have to be there. A-and I don’t want you to be stressed over me. Over this.”

Taehyung bit his lip and quickly wiped at his eyes. “I’m still pissed at you,” he said weakly.

“I understand,” Seokjin nodded, voice cautious.

“But give me some time,” Taehyung continued. “Maybe I can forgive you with time.”

Seokjin inhaled deeply, still nodding. Long overdue, yet a breath of fresh air all the same.

Jimin walked with Sooyun to the field spread out before the communal building. The sun was setting, orange bleeding into the deep purple of a clear night sky. There were blankets laid out in a circle in the grass, the middle left bare. Candles were lit and flickering, illuminating the center in a gentle light. A table of food was set up close to the communal building, although most of the attending wolves were already gathered at their seats, divided into their family groups.

They met Hyunjae and Jihyun, already settled in. Sooyun sat down beside her mate while Jimin remained standing.

“How’s he feeling?” Hyunjae asked.

“Nervous,” Jimin said. “Excited for the most part, though. He looks gorgeous.”

“We made sure of that,” Sooyun added with a smile.

“No sign of his parents?” Jimin questioned, lowering his voice.

Hyunjae shook her head. “Nope. Only Seokjin.”

“Good,” Jimin muttered. They hadn’t been expecting the Kims to show up, but it was still a relief that they weren’t around to screw up the evening.

“I’m gonna go eat something real quick,” he said, turning away from his family to walk to the rather unoccupied table. He found Namjoon idling close by, watching the remaining wolves filter over and spread out their blankets. “Smaller crowd than usual,” Jimin observed, hanging back by the pack alpha.

“Mm. Just about everyone’s caught on to why we’re holding a premature mating ceremony. You can’t expect the whole pack to approve.”

“It’s better the dissenters keep to themselves, yeah?” Jimin replied with a shrug, picking up a dumpling to pop into his mouth. He chewed and took in the quiet chatter of the crowd, the meticulous layout of the event. “Looks nice.”

“Jin organized it,” Namjoon said simply. “He apologized, right?”

Jimin snorted. “Yeah. Came into Tae’s room yesterday and made a whole speech. They’re not exactly on good terms, but at least they don’t have to avoid each other anymore.”

Namjoon hummed. “I hope they can make up. Taehyung’s going to need all the family he can get.”

“He has me,” Jimin protested.

Namjoon grinned down at him. “How could I forget?” He tapped his foot, anxiously awaiting Jungkook’s arrival so they could get started. “Speaking of domestic spats...”

Jimin groaned.

“C’mon, what’s up with you and Yoongi? I’ve never seen either of you get so worked up over an argument.”

“It’s complicated,” Jimin muttered. “We’re working on it.”

“I think you have to actually be talking to consider yourselves ‘working on it.’“

“Well, I can at least tell you we aren’t broken up. I’m too old to go looking for another alpha.”

“You act like you’re unmated at thirty,” Namjoon chuckled.

“With Taehyung pregnant, I feel like I’m sorta falling behind.”

“Take it at your own pace, Jimin. That’s what I admire about you—you just do everything your own way.”

“Ha. That gets me into trouble when I don’t check myself, though.”

“True,” Namjoon mused. “Y’know, I admired you so much when we were younger, I was planning on courting you.”

Jimin’s eyes widened, snapping to attention. “What? When, exactly?”

“Right after you presented,” Namjoon said. “Had a gift ready and everything.”

“So why didn’t you?”

“Yoongi,” Namjoon said mirthfully.

Jimin frowned. “Wait, what? He waited a whole year later to start courting me.”

“I was talking to him about it, my whole plan and whatnot. I knew you were close friends, so I guess I wanted his approval in some sense. Then, uh,” Namjoon laughed, “He got this look on his face. Sorta shock, sorta disgust, a lot of panic. He didn’t have to say anything; just from looking at him, I knew. So I backed off. Worked out better for the both of us, though, I think.”

Jimin bit his lip, considering. “Yeah, I would’ve made a terrible head omega.”

Namjoon smiled at him warmly. “Maybe not terrible, but definitely an aggressive one.”

Jimin wrapped his arms around himself and leaned back on his heels. “What was the point of that story, Joon?”

“Figured I could give you a reminder of how much Yoongi loves you. How long he’s loved you. That’s all,” Namjoon quietly replied.

Jimin exhaled, shoulders heavy. “He doesn’t always have the best of way of showing it.”

“We’ve all got our shortcomings,” Namjoon shrugged.

Jimin smiled wryly. “Yeah,” he murmured. “Thanks. I guess I should sit down now.”

Namjoon gave him a firm pat on the back. “Of course. Enjoy the ceremony. I’ll try not to stutter while officiating.”

Jimin rolled his eyes and straightened his posture, retreating back toward his family. He lowered himself down onto the blanket slowly, muscles a bit stiff from hunting and the colder weather. He leaned into his mother, the other wolves around them settling as the Jeons approached the grounds.

Jungkook’s parents broke off from him, grinning excitedly, his mother fretting over his furs before she was dragged away by her mate. Jungkook shooed them as he walked toward Namjoon.

“Jungkookie, you look so cute!” Jimin shouted, the alpha flushing red up to his ears as he refused to look at Jimin. Jimin heard Hoseok cackling from the other side of the circle.

“Aw, you’re embarrassing him,” Sooyun whispered.

“That’s the point, Eomma,” Jimin snickered.

Jungkook’s hair was neatly groomed for once, black hair curled against his forehead, a light dusting of kohl accentuating his eyes. Under his heavy, dark furs was the ceremonial hanbok, his being simple and black. Omegas typically wore more intricate and colorful patterns than alphas.

“It feels like our mating ceremony was just yesterday,” Hyunjae said.

“Really? Seems like it was decades ago to me,” Sooyun countered.

“Why do you always have to bicker?” Jihyun groaned.

“This isn’t bickering,” Sooyun gasped.

“Yeah, we’ll show you real bickering,” Hyunjae added.

“God, am I glad to not live with you anymore,” Jimin sighed.

“So you understand my pain!” Jihyun wailed.

“If you’d hurry up and present,” Hyunjae drawled, “You wouldn’t have to deal with us anymore.”

“Now what am I gonna do with an empty nest?” Sooyun argued. “Baby, you stay as long as you can. No matter what your ma says, Eomma will always take care of you.” She tried to reach over and strangle Jihyun in an embrace, only for him to wriggle out of her grasp.

“I see Jihyun’s going through that moody stage,” Yoongi spoke from behind them.

Jimin stiffened. He should have scented Yoongi’s approach. His lack of attention left him with no time to escape.

“Yoonie,” Sooyun gasped as she turned around, lurching to her feet to wrap him in her arms instead. “You can have all the hugs he rejects.”

Yoongi returned the embrace, eyes meeting Jimin’s. “Jimin,” he curtly greeted.

Jimin was silent for a long moment. His mother kicked his thigh. Jimin hissed, then forced a smile. “Yoongi. Nice to see you.”

“Likewise,” Yoongi murmured, releasing Sooyun and walking around to Jimin’s other side. He left some distance between them as he sat down. Jimin looked ahead, hands in his lap and throat tight.

Jimin did scent the wolf coming up behind Yoongi, however. He tried to keep a neutral face as Dasung sat beside Yoongi. Jimin’s brows pinched together and his lips tipped into a frown. Yoongi watched his expression morph into something thoroughly unpleasant.

Yoongi cleared his throat. “Ah, Dasung, it’s customary for wolves to sit with their families during mating ceremonies.”

Dasung blinked at him, then glanced at the row of Parks. “Where’s yours?”

“This is my family,” Yoongi said simply, a spark of warmth alighting in Jimin’s chest as the alpha shifted closer to him.

Dasung looked confused, so Jimin exhaled and leaned forward to explain it for her. “Yoongi’s parents passed years ago. I’m sure you were too young to remember.”

“O-oh,” Dasung gaped. “I’m sorry.” She pushed herself back to her feet, bowing her head apologetically as she moved away from them once again.

Jimin curled back into himself, staring at his hands.

“Are you cold?” Yoongi asked, taking Jimin by surprise.

“N-no,” Jimin said quickly, but Yoongi was already taking off one of his furs to wrap over Jimin’s shoulders. Jimin really wasn’t cold. He’d dressed practically, and the wind wasn’t all that strong this evening. But he didn’t protest, allowing Yoongi to tuck the material around his neck, up to his chin. Yoongi’s hands slid away slowly, touch lingering over Jimin, reluctant to return to himself completely.

Namjoon clapped twice, quieting the crowd and drawing their attention. He stepped into the center of the circle, gaze roving over the attendees. “Thank you all for joining us tonight to witness the joining of two wolves. Tonight, two members of our pack come together. Jeon Jungkook,” he gestured toward the alpha, giving him the cue to join him in the center. Namjoon held out his hand, Jungkook resting his palm against his. “And Kim Taehyung.”

A few wolves gasped excitedly, Jungkook’s eyes widening substantially. Jimin turned around, following Namjoon’s attention to find the omega approaching the circle from behind them. Seokjin was accompanying him, beaming before he broke away to find his own allotted seat. Taehyung blushed and ducked his head under all the attention. His hanbok was a deep red, a gold leaf design threaded across the skirt, glittering under the candlelight.

Namjoon held out his hand for Taehyung as well, smiling down fondly at the shy omega. Jimin couldn’t hold back his glee—his best friend was beautiful and absolutely glowing, cheeks and lips a complementary red to his hanbok.

Namjoon turned Jungkook’s palm over, then gently placed Taehyung’s hand onto his soon-to-be mate’s. Jungkook grasped his hand tightly. As soon as their eyes locked, the rest of the world disappeared.

“Under the moon, the couple will now make their oaths. You may both be seated,” Namjoon stated, stepping back to allow the two to settle into the grass. He moved away to sit beside the head omega.

A mating ceremony’s main focus was the couple, therefore the pack alpha played little part in it. Namjoon was really only around to keep the event organized. Once he symbolically joined the wolves, they made their own speeches, proclaiming their love and loyalty to each other in front of the pack.

Jungkook quickly leaned forward to whisper something to Taehyung, the latter breaking out into raspy giggles before they both broke away. Taehyung didn’t look around at the wolves watching them, only pouted and fiddled with Jungkook’s fingers.

“I guess I should start, huh? It’s really cold out here.”

Jungkook gave him a ridiculously large grin. “You should’ve dressed warmer.”

“And cover up my hanbok? I look so pretty!” He whined.

Jimin muffled his own chuckle as Jungkook playfully rolled his eyes.

“Okay, go then. The quicker we do this, the quicker we can go inside and cuddle by the fire.”

Taehyung slumped his shoulders. “That sounds so nice,” he sighed. “Alright. Where do I even start? No one tells you how hard it is to really say all you want to in the moment.”

“You can keep it simple,” Jungkook said softly, reassuring.

Taehyung looked down at their twined hands and tilted his head. “I’ll just start from the beginning,” he said, wetting his bottom lip as he considered his next words. “I didn’t... grow up with a lot of affection. It was kinda something that had to be earned. At school, I’d have friends, but at home things were just different. A bit lonely.”

Taehyung took a deep breath. “I spent a lot of time trying to fill that hole, that part of me that wanted love and attention and anything, really. I was a bit relieved when I presented as an omega, because that meant I had an excuse to be doted upon. I’d get so many gifts from alphas, compliments from other omegas. I’ve been blessed with a pretty face, after all,” he joked, pushing through the waver in his voice.

“But none of it felt very genuine. Maybe that’s why I got desperate. I went searching for love in all the worst places. I’d give myself to people, only to find nothing real in return. I gave and people took and... I got tired. I wondered if this was all my life was gonna be.”

Taehyung blinked through the tears gathering in his eyes. Jungkook brought their joined hands to his lips, kissing Taehyung’s knuckles.

“You were always there, though. Weren’t you?” Taehyung said quietly. “Sure, as a dorky young alpha, so energetic and eager to wrestle around. You weren’t always a romantic interest, in that sense. But you were a constant. A home I could always come back to.

“I didn’t expect us to court, and I was a little scared when we did start. I couldn’t be sure what you were after, if you had the same intentions as the rest. But I shouldn’t have doubted you,” Taehyung shook his head, eyes distant. “For years, you’ve shown me so much love. Unconditional love. You’re one of my best friends, Kook. You’ve got me when everything else has gone to shit. You want me not because of my body or my face, or because I’m an omega. You just want me.”

Taehyung exhaled shakily. “I was looking for love in terrible, terrible places. But in the one place I wasn’t searching, you found me instead. And it turns out, Jungkook, that you are exactly the love I’ve been searching for.”

Jungkook’s lips parted, his own eyes watering as Taehyung smiled at him. The alpha lurched forward and cupped Taehyung’s cheek, kissing him passionately for a drawn-out moment.

Jimin heard Namjoon sigh. “God, Kook. You’re not supposed to kiss him until the end,” Jimin mumbled, despite his own small smile.

Taehyung huffed when they broke away. “Kookie, I wasn’t finished,” he whined, blushing heavily.

“Then finish,” Jungkook laughed.

Taehyung brushed his hair back. “L-like I was saying, um... I promise to return the love you’ve shown me in full, and to respect and cherish you as my partner. B-because we get to share this love with our own family now,” he said, voice quieter than before. “It’s going to be hard, and unconventional, but I’m so glad you’re the one by my side. So, Jeon Jungkook,” Taehyung said firmly, “I accept you as my mate.”

There was a short cheer from Hoseok a few feet off, followed by a wave of chuckles.

Taehyung nudged Jungkook. “It’s your turn now.”

“Fuck, you’ve got me all emotional,” Jungkook said, blinking through the blurriness in his eyes. “My oath’s not gonna be nearly as long or articulate as yours. You’ve always been the smart one between the both of us.”

Taehyung rolled his eyes.

“Hey, you know I’m going to give it my all, though,” Jungkook stated. “So, uh, we’ve kinda known each other forever. I’d tease you when we were pups and Jimin would come back to beat me up.”

Jimin nodded along. It was true.

“Honestly, he still does that. But, um, yeah... From pups ‘til now, you’ve been there, y’know? I had your back and you had mine. Even though I didn’t know exactly what you were going through after you presented, I saw how it was affecting you. It hurt me to see you upset.

“I think I’ve always loved you, in some way or another. I don’t known when platonic turned to romantic, but sure enough it did. After I presented, seeing how those other alphas treated you, I wondered if I could do better. I’m not any good at this stuff. I sort of fucked up the first courting gift. But you accepted it anyway—you accepted me anyway.

“The funny thing, Tae, is that in my head it’s always been you. My friend, my partner, my everything. When we first started courting, people would warn me. Tell me not to get tangled up with a Kim. But what the fuck would they know, when it was you? You’re my entire world, Kim Taehyung. You look at me like I’m worth something. You’re the kindest, most wonderful wolf I’ve ever met, and you gave me of all people a chance.”

“No, don’t say that,” Taehyung whispered, grasping Jungkook’s hand tighter, reaching for his other one. “You’re amazing, Kookie—”

“No interrupting, right?” Jungkook snickered, grinning as Taehyung wrinkled his nose. “You see what I mean? You’re sweet and compassionate, and strong in every sense of the word. I want to give you everything, because all you deserve is to be happy. I’m so honored that you’ve picked me to be the one to make you happy. I love you.”

“I love you too,” Taehyung said quickly, tears streaking down his cheeks.

Jimin swallowed a lump in his throat, getting rather worked up himself. He glanced over at the space between him and Yoongi. Yoongi’s hand was laid flat between them, supporting his body as he leaned into it. Jimin inched his own hand closer, fingertips tentatively brushing against Yoongi’s.

“When you found out you were pregnant, you started to see yourself as a burden. I should’ve known something was wrong sooner. Should have gone to you, comforted you sooner,” Jungkook continued.

Yoongi’s gazed flickered down to their hands, noticing Jimin’s faint touch.

“There’s never been a question about this, about us. You’re my person, Tae. A pup, or any obstacle really, could never change that. There will never be a question about it,” Jungkook said firmly, meeting Taehyung’s watery eyes.

Yoongi twined his fingers with Jimin’s. Jimin’s breath caught. Warmth bloomed beneath his ribs.

“Kim Taehyung, you will continue to be my whole world, and I promise I will respect you as such. Anything you want, I will give it to you. Hold me to my word,” Jungkook said, voice softening toward the end. “And if you really will have me, I accept you as my mate.”

Now, at this point they were actually supposed to kiss. Taehyung lurched forward, though, wrapping Jungkook in a tight hug. Jungkook held him close, laughing before he pressed a kiss to his hair, then his forehead, and a firm kiss to his cheek.

More wolves joined Hoseok in his cheering this time. Namjoon stood to his feet, walking over to the pair until he placed his hands on their shoulders. “Under witness by the moon and the pack, I pronounce these wolves mates.”

Taehyung pulled away, wiping at his eyes, then kissed Jungkook in full.

☽○☾

Jimin stretched out his arms, groggy under the morning sun. Dasung was laid out in the grass beside him, wrapped in layers of furs. Snow looked to be on the horizon, white clouds heavy above.

“How long until mated couples return to their normal lives?” Dasung grumbled.

“Could be days. Could be a week. Who knows. Depends on how eager they are to fuck,” Jimin sighed. It was two days after Taehyung’s mating ceremony, and Jungkook had yet to return to work.

Yoongi muffled a yawn as he walked up to them. He pointed straight out into the woods. “Southern territory today,” he assigned.

Jimin furrowed his brows. “Aren’t you gonna wait for Hoseok?”

“Hoseok went into rut last night,” Yoongi said bluntly. “It’s just you two for now.”

Jimin and Dasung groaned in unison.

“You can manage. If it doesn’t work today, I’ll just group you in with Chunhei tomorrow. Fair?”

“I guess,” Jimin said.

“Dasung, get up. Animals are going into hibernation as we speak,” Yoongi chastised.

“You don’t have to look so sulky either,” Yoongi said quietly, cupping Jimin’s cheek without much thought. Jimin’s eyes widened a fraction as he looked at Yoongi, skin tingling under his touch. Yoongi awkwardly cleared his throat and removed his hand. “Watch your step out there. Animals are stocking up. They might get aggressive.”

“I know, Yoon,” Jimin murmured. “We’ll be fine.”

Yoongi nodded, lingering a moment before turning to walk away.

“C’mon, pup. We’ve got work to do,” Jimin said, kicking her ankle.

They moved at a slower pace that morning, tired and cold as they advanced deeper into the woods. There were patches of snow in the darker, denser areas, muffling the scents of potential prey. Hunting during winter was dangerous if a wolf couldn’t always tell what they were walking into.

Jimin and Dasung weren’t having much luck anyway, every set of tracks they followed leading to nothing. It was difficult to distinguish the old tracks from the new ones, yet they didn’t have much else to follow.

Dasung had developed a knack for following scents. Jimin let her lead the way while he padded along behind her, still trying to shake the fog of sleep out of his head.

“I think I got something,” Dasung said, picking up her pace, nose low to the ground. “Smells like deer.” She veered off toward the left, following the trail attentively.

“Slow down,” Jimin said half-heartedly, falling out of step. “You’re way too eager, pup.”

“We haven’t caught anything yet!” She argued. “It’s close,” she exclaimed, pace a near jog.

“Dasung, be more cautious,” Jimin warned, aching limbs trying to keep up.

Jimin caught a whiff of blood. His muscles froze, his legs slowing to a near halt. “Dasung, stop,” Jimin said firmly.

“I’ve got this,” Dasung said, only speeding up.

Jimin was forced to follow after her, knowing their mental link would break with too much distance between them. As they neared a clearing of glittering sunlight, the scent of flesh hit Jimin hard. Dasung was too concentrated on the deer to really notice.

Jimin pushed himself into a run. Despite the mask of snow, Jimin could finally detect the hint of bear amidst the stench of carrion. “Pup, stop!”

Jimin’s command came too late. Dasung had already emerged into the clearing, her high-pitched yelp following shortly after. Jimin burst into the bright clearing, blinking away the haze of his eyes, finding Dasung hunched down with her hackles raised, growling at a bear hovering over a dead deer.

The bear’s claws were wet with blood, muzzle a mess of red flesh. Jimin could smell the hint of milk on the bear—its cubs were nearby. The bear advanced toward Dasung with its teeth bared before Jimin could herd her away.

Dasung only snarled louder.

“Don’t provoke it!” Jimin said desperately.

The bear broke into a run then, leaving Jimin little time to think through his next move. Jimin sprinted toward the pup as she froze in terror. He barreled into her, shoving her away as the bear got close enough to attack. It snapped at Jimin’s head, the omega ducking in time to escape the impact of its teeth. It snapped again as Jimin was turning to escape himself, jaws clamping down on Jimin’s back thigh.

Jimin scrambled around with a snarl, scratching at the bear’s face until it released him, lumbering back a step. It was a heavy animal, slower than Jimin. But it was powerful. This was not a fight he could win alone.

“Run,” Jimin stated.

“What?” She said as she stared at him, still in shock.

“Run!” He repeated.

Dasung struggled to her feet, dashing a few feet away, hiding behind Jimin. Jimin barked at the bear, backing away from it slowly. He laid his ears flat, teeth bared, and barked again, startling it back step by step.

“Will it follow us to the territory?”

“No,” Jimin said, easing them closer to the line of trees. He barked even louder, trying to assert his dominance despite the fear running rampant within him, roaring in his ears. Once there was a reasonable amount of distance between them, Jimin swiftly whipped around and bodily pushed Dasung. “Go!” He urged. She finally complied, Jimin limping after her as fast as he could manage.

Jimin ignored the throbbing of his injury, adrenaline powerful enough to get them through the forest, shadows passing by their vision, dead leaves and old snow crunching underfoot, until they neared their central territory. When they burst through the tree line, Hyejin staggered back, shocked at the commotion.

She was already out of her wolf form. She blinked at Jimin, watching him pant and collapse before she scented the blood. “Shit. What happened?” She rushed to Jimin’s side, tugging off her furs as he shifted.

Jimin hadn’t gotten the chance to assess the injury. He gritted his teeth as he looked down at his bare thigh, wincing as the pain flooded back to him. The gashes were deep, blood flowing out and streaking down his skin in rivulets of crimson. Hyejin wrapped Jimin’s shivering body in her furs and picked him up as gently as she could.

“Bear attack,” Jimin said.

Dasung shifted back as well, staring up at Jimin reverently as Hyejin pulled him closer against her chest. “You saved me. Why—why did you—”

Jimin hissed as another wave of pain washed over him. “You really think I wanted that bear to tear your head off?” Jimin said. “It’s called compassion, Dasung. That’s all.”

“C’mon. You need to get to the infirmary,” Hyejin murmured, breaking his focus.

Jimin breathed heavily as he pressed his head to her shoulder. He shut his eyes tightly, trying to work through the rising sting on their short journey to the infirmary. Minutes felt like hours, Jimin finally exhaling in relief when they reached the small, familiar building. Hyejin threw open the door rather dramatically. “Hunter down!” She shouted.

Hyunjae scurried to the entryway, eyes going comically wide as she took in Jimin’s pale complexion, sweat beading at his temples despite the cold temperature. “What did you get yourself into?”

“Why’re you and Eomma always asking that?” Jimin huffed. “‘S a fuckin’ bear.”

“Oh,” she gasped, rushing to clear off a cot. “Lay him down here.”

Jimin winced as he was laid out. He peeled the fur away from his thigh, tamping down the panic that arose at the sight of his blood flow.

Hyunjae came over with disinfectant, grimacing as she took in the damage. “Is it just your leg?”

Jimin nodded. “Hurts like a fucker, though.”

“Well, you’re not going to bleed out. So you’ve got that going for you.”

“Thanks, Jae,” Jimin grumbled.

Hyunjae wiped off the excess blood, then began dabbing at the gashes. Jimin whined low in his throat, resting his head back against the cot as she continued to clean him off.

“I’ll, uh, go get Yoongi,” Hyejin said, inching toward the door, looking a little queasy.

“No, he’s—” Jimin hissed through his teeth, “In a meeting today.”

“She’s already gone,” Hyunjae said.

Jimin sighed and shut his eyes. “Great.”

Hyunjae examined the injury more closely once most of the blood was wiped away. She pressed a cloth to his gashes. “Hold this,” she instructed, pressing his hand over it. “I’ve gotta get more gauze from the back.”

“You got any drugs that’ll help with the pain?”

“I thought you were tougher than that?” Hyunjae teased.

“Not now, Jae. I’m a crybaby, remember?” Jimin grumbled.

“Of course, baby. I’ll see what I can find,” she said with mild mirth.

“Oh, spare clothes too, please,” Jimin called after her. He pursed his lips and shifted around, staring up at the planks of the ceiling. He could already tell this was going to be a long and rough recovery. All for that damn pup. Jimin suddenly couldn’t remember what exactly the benefit of being a good person was.

Jimin audibly squeaked as the front door was thrust open. His eyes met Yoongi’s panicked pair, and the world seemed to freeze for a moment. Yoongi’s gaze then fell to the blood-soaked cloth covering his thigh. “Park Jimin,” he growled. Jimin had to resist the urge to curl into himself.

Jimin could not hold back the whimper that escaped his lips when Yoongi strode over, however. The alpha’s scent hit him immediately. Jimin felt his muscles easing up, worry fading as Yoongi crouched beside him, pressing his nose to Jimin’s neck.

“A bear attack. For fuck’s sake,” Yoongi mumbled, lips ghosting over Jimin’s skin.

Jimin clutched at his back, shivering as Yoongi’s fingers skimmed over the exposed skin of Jimin’s thigh. “You said you were gonna be safe.”

“It wasn’t me. I was just saving the pup.”

“Coulda gotten yourself killed in the process.”

“I thought you wanted me to get along with her?”

“Not—” Yoongi stopped and exhaled shakily. “Not in a reckless sense. You have any idea how pissed I’d be if you you’d died?”

“I guess I figured you’d be sad,” Jimin said dully. Yoongi was evidently in no mood for joking; he pinched Jimin’s thigh.

“Don’t be a brat.”

“Yoongi, I’m going to need you to move so I can finish patching him up,” Hyunjae sighed, standing at the foot of the cot with a raised brow and a handful of gauze.

“How bad is it?” Yoongi questioned.

“He probably shouldn’t be walking for a while.”

“Seriously?” Jimin moaned. “What am I gonna do? Just lay around in bed?”

“Y’know, some people would be grateful for time off,” Hyunjae stated.

“Unfortunately, Jimin’s not some people,” Yoongi said.

“Ha,” Jimin rasped dryly. He clenched his jaw and grabbed Yoongi harder as Hyunjae removed the cloth and began to wrap up his injury. “Too tight,” Jimin whined.

“Yeah, it’s supposed to be tight,” Hyunjae said. “Baby.”

“Make up your mind, Jae. Am I a baby or not?”

Yoongi brushed his lips against Jimin’s scent gland, the omega falling limp beneath him. “Calm down. It’s almost over.”

“Well, it’s just about over now anyway. I’ve got some pills to give you. You can take them for a few days, then you’ll just have to tough out the remaining ache.”

“Awesome,” Jimin mumbled. “Clothes?”

“Ah, right,” Hyunjae replied. She left briefly to retrieve them, handing the stack over to Yoongi rather than Jimin, along with that pills that Yoongi quickly pocketed. “I’ll slide the curtain over for privacy.”

“Wait,” Jimin weakly protested. Hyunjae already closed the curtain around them and left.

Jimin laid there for a moment, staring at the ceiling once more. “I can dress myself,” he said hesitantly.

“Go ahead, try to move,” Yoongi said, leaning away to observe Jimin.

Jimin released his grip on Yoongi and placed his hands back on the cot, pushing himself up into a sitting position with some trouble. He took the offered shirt and very slowly pulled it over his head. He looked at Yoongi pointedly, victory in his smirk. Yoongi merely nodded down at his lower half.

Jimin’s face fell. He tried to move his injured leg, only to stiffen up. “Fuck,” he hissed, hunching over.

“That’s what I thought,” Yoongi sighed. He moved to sit on the edge of the cot, situating himself beside Jimin’s legs. “Can you lift your hips?”

“I think so,” Jimin said quietly, cheeks hot as he lifted himself up. Yoongi was careful as he slid the underwear on first, moving onto the pants without missing a beat. His touch was gentle as the material glided over the gauze. He made sure it didn’t pull too much on his wrappings. He patted Jimin’s hip once he was finished, silence spanning out between them.

“I’ll carry you home now.”

“You don’t need to,” Jimin said quickly.

Yoongi pursed his lips. “How else are you going to get there?”

Jimin gaped, response dying in his throat. “I... don’t know.”

Yoongi took a deep breath, expression neutral. He slid his arm under Jimin’s legs, then secured another at Jimin’s back. He lifted him gently; Jimin gripped his shoulder. Jimin’s heart rate sped up as he was pressed against Yoongi’s chest. He resisted the strong urge to just nuzzle into Yoongi’s neck.

Yoongi carried him out of the infirmary and into the winter cold. December was creeping up on them, its chill seeping into their bones. Jimin shivered and focused his attention on the ground, eager to be in his bed and away from this uncomfortable situation.

He knew he should just talk to Yoongi, but Sooyun was right—the longer they’d let this go on, the harder it was to get the damn words out.

Jimin’s grip on Yoongi’s shoulder tightened, his heart heavy and mind a muddle.

“I’m sorry,” Yoongi said abruptly.

They were passing the dining hall, a litter of snowflakes drifting down.

“What?” Jimin asked dumbly, blinking up at him. Snow landed on Yoongi’s nose, fluttering around him and catching in his lashes.

“For not believing you.”

“O-oh,” Jimin muttered.

“You have a tendency to blow things out of proportion, so when you started throwing accusations at Dasung, I shrugged it off.”

Jimin’s first instinct was deny the claim. But he forced himself to remember the lesson he’d learned, and his determination to be better. “You’re right.”

Yoongi looked down at him in surprise. “Really?”

“I’m trying out this humility thing. Don’t spoil it before I’ve barely begun.”

A ghost of a smile graced Yoongi’s lips. “Alright.”

“So?” Jimin prompted. “What changed your mind?”

“Dasung,” Yoongi said simply, mulling over the rest of his answer. “Well, I actually didn’t believe you for a while. I thought you guys had just developed some sort of rivalry. Then her advances got more obvious, and you seemed genuinely upset and it... it got to me. But you have to understand, Jimin. Even once I was aware of her intentions, I saw her as a pup. She’s six years younger than me. I can’t really see her as anything other than a kid, so I guess I didn’t view her as any serious threat. Unlike you.”

Jimin snorted. “Unlike me.” He held out a hand, letting snow melt against the heat of his open palm.

“But she was mean to you, wasn’t she?”

Jimin’s eyes widened a fraction. “You know that?”

“I didn’t, not for a long time,” he shook his head. “She tried to talk down on you like a week ago, though. And that really ticked me off. I’ve been trying to shake her off ever since.”

Jimin bit his lip and sighed. “That’s nice, Yoon. But you’re... not the only one to blame. I do overreact, and I can be very immature. I should’ve just sat down and talked to you about it honestly instead of blowing up.”

“But I was a bit delusional,” Yoongi argued. “I wanted everyone to get along so desperately. I thought, if I tried hard enough, I could force you two to work together. I really thought I could make everyone, y’know, work it out. That’s not the reality of things, though.”

They neared the steps of the omega dorm, Yoongi hoisting Jimin up higher as he ascended. Jimin’s nails dug into his shoulder. He set Jimin down, the omega leaning on Yoongi heavily as he opened the front door. Jimin tried to limp inside, only to be scooped back up.

“I shouldn’t have gotten frustrated by your reaction. But we’re both stubborn like that,” Yoongi continued.

“I felt like you were genuinely mad at me,” Jimin said.

“Not really. Not after that first week. I got it into my head that I was right, and by the time I came around, you were acting so coldly.” He paused as he shouldered open Jimin’s bedroom door. Yoongi carefully set Jimin down on his mattress, taking a step back once Jimin was situated. “The last thing I wanted was to upset you any more.”

Jimin shook his head with a wry smile. “People thought we’d broken our courtship off.”

Yoongi gaped. “That’s... awful. I never mentioned anything like that.”

“I know, Yoon,” Jimin murmured. “It’s okay. We can stop this stupid game now, right?”

“As long as you understand how sorry I am, Jimin. I feel terrible I let us get so distant,” Yoongi insisted, brows drawn.

“Yoongi,” Jimin said firmly. “I know. I’m sorry too, for not trying to resolve it. I acted childishly. I should’ve put the pup in her place long ago instead of letting her get to me.”

“You can’t change the past,” Yoongi said, kneeling in front of Jimin. He grasped his hands. “Let’s just do better, yeah? Talk things out instead of acting petty. Listen to each other. Not run in front of a charging bear—”

“Oh my god,” Jimin whined. He flopped back onto his mattress, wincing when he strained his injury.

He heard Yoongi chuckling and felt himself grow warm at the familiar sound. Yoongi took a deep breath and stood, releasing Jimin’s hands. “Do you need anything before I leave?”

Jimin struggled to push himself back up. “You’re not staying?”

Yoongi blinked at him in surprise. “I wasn’t sure if you wanted me to.”

Jimin’s lips parted, expression vulnerable. “Stay,” he said.

Yoongi looked at him for a long moment. “Okay,” he murmured. He helped Jimin tug off Hyejin’s furs, then tucked him into bed. Yoongi took off his own shoes and coat, crawling in after him.

Jimin curled up close to Yoongi’s side, pressing his nose to the alpha’s scent gland. Yoongi wrapped his arms around Jimin’s waist and kissed his head. “I love you,” he said softly.

“Mm. Love you, too.” Jimin nuzzled further into him, fighting the exhaustion that followed his harsh drop in adrenaline.

“Sleep, pup,” Yoongi whispered. Jimin purred as Yoongi rubbed soothing circles into his lower back. “I’ll still be here when you wake up.”

Chapter Text

Jimin was inducted as an official pack hunter when he was eighteen. He served the standard training time of three years, got assigned to a compatible team. Their pack didn’t hold a grand ceremony, no public gathering.

Jimin wore the furs of his latest kill, a vibrantly spotted doe, and stood by the tree line, the rest of the hunters gathered across from him. It was a simple tradition—the accepted wolf was presented to their peers under the soft haze of the rising sun. The head alpha was holding a bowl of Jimin’s most recent kill’s blood.

Jimin didn’t have to prove himself, he’d done so enough throughout the span of his training. There was no designated speech or test. Only the head alpha’s voice needed to be heard across the silent and still morning air.

“Today we accept Park Jimin as a hunter of the Sung pack,” Yoongi announced, voice carrying over the chilled breeze. He stepped up to Jimin, head high, and leveled him with a neutral expression. “One of us.”

“One heart,” the wolves replied in unison, pride swelling within Jimin’s chest.

“One heart,” Yoongi echoed, dipping three fingers into the blood and closing the small remaining distance. Jimin met his eyes, jittery with excitement. His own pride was reflected in Yoongi’s expression, the both of them holding back a smile.

Jimin had been dreaming of this moment for years. It was nothing huge, no public display. But intimate and heart-warming. A short ceremony of acceptance.

Yoongi ran his fingertips down Jimin’s cheek, leaving three distinct trails of crimson. And the tradition concluded.

Jimin was a true hunter. A defender of the pack. A warrior.

☽○☾

Jimin had been in and out of sleep for the remainder of the day of the bear attack. Every time he woke, pain would flood back to him in intense, pulsating waves. Yoongi had to carry him just about everywhere, drawing too many eyes throughout the omega dorm. Yoongi had abandoned all other duties for the day to care for Jimin. Jimin didn’t have the heart to protest, knowing he dearly needed the assistance.

The pain killers Hyunjae provided finally knocked Jimin out in the middle of the night, and he didn’t stir again until the sun was well risen.

Jimin nuzzled against the warm body curled around him, sunlight much too bright on his eyelids. Yoongi’s chest was rising and falling steadily, Jimin’s palm splayed out over his heart. Jimin blinked up at him groggily, taking the time to simply watch Yoongi sleep, the alpha’s expression relaxed and peaceful.

It had been too long since Yoongi was in Jimin’s bed.

Jimin brought his hand up to gently trace the curve of his nose, fingertips skimming over Yoongi’s skin. He pressed a thumb to Yoongi’s lower lip, eyes reverent as the alpha’s lashes fluttered.

Jimin brushed his hand through Yoongi’s hair, noting how long it’d grown. He buried his hand within the soft strands and wiggled in closer, pressing his forehead to Yoongi’s with a context sigh.

“I missed you,” he whispered, inhaling Yoongi’s scent, now permeating the sheets, Jimin’s clothes, and basically the entire room.

Jimin kissed the tip of Yoongi’s nose, careful as he shifted himself around to reach his cheek, planting tiny kisses along his face. Jimin moved lower again, kissing Yoongi’s jawline, then his neck, and settling against his scent gland.

He felt the rumble deep in Yoongi’s chest, reverberating against his own. Jimin clutched at Yoongi’s side as the alpha roused awake. He whined when Yoongi began to turn them over, laying Jimin out on his back. He stuck his nose into the crook of Jimin’s neck, laving his tongue over the omega’s gland. A shiver wracked Jimin’s body.

“Yoon,” Jimin breathed, circling his arms around his shoulders.

Yoongi bit Jimin’s neck, the omega falling limp beneath him with a whimper. Yoongi growled in satisfaction, continuing to lick over the flushed skin of Jimin’s neck. He nipped at Jimin’s collarbone before pushing himself up, looking down at Jimin with hooded eyes.

Jimin was breathing heavily, belly warm and muscles loose. Yoongi brushed his knuckles against Jimin’s cheek, expression sleepy and fond. “We should change your gauze,” Yoongi said, voice rough.

“That’s the first thing you’re going to say to me after all that?” Jimin grumbled.

Yoonig quickly kissed his cheek. “Yes.”

He rolled off of Jimin and walked to the dresser to pick up the roll of gauze. Jimin threw off the sheets and wiggled out of his loose sleep pants, sighing at the bruising surrounding the wrapped portion of his thigh. He kicked his pants to the floor with a huff, watching as Yoongi returned and settled at the end of the mattress.

“How does it feel?” Yoongi asked.

“Sore, I guess,” Jimin mumbled. He rubbed at his eyes. “Shouldn’t you be at work?”

“Caught Wheein in the hall this morning. Put her in charge ‘til further notice,” Yoongi said simply.

“No one came looking for you yesterday?”

“I suppose word got around.”

“Then why hasn’t my mother come banging down my door?”

Yoongi chuckled. “I’m sure Hyunjae told her you were being taken care of.”

Jimin pouted. “For all she knew, you could’ve dropped me and left.”

“Mm. Good thing she knows me well enough to not assume that, though. Even if we were fighting...”

Jimin’s expression softened. Yoongi met his eyes, silence passing between them. Then Yoongi smoothed his palm over Jimin’s leg, beginning to peel off the wrapping. Jimin winced in discomfort, wiggling back into the mattress.

“Stay still,” Yoongi muttered, holding his hip down. “Don’t open any wounds.”

“Doesn’t feel good,” Jimin complained.

“Of course it doesn’t. It’s not supposed to,” Yoongi said with a roll of his eyes. His brows furrowed as he assessed the damage.

“Should I look?” Jimin asked.

Yoongi sucked in a sharp breath. “Well, it’s not infected. But it’s definitely not pretty.”

“Great. I look like carrion.”

“You’re fine. It’ll make for a nice, big scar.”

“So I can show it off to all the swooning omegas?” Jimin joked.

“Sure, once you’re toting a mating mark as well,” Yoongi said stiffly, concentrated on wrapping Jimin’s leg back up.

“Yoon,” Jimin hissed. “Hurts.”

Yoongi finished up, touch lingering on Jimin’s skin. “What do you want me to do about that? Get some more medicine?”

Jimin looked up at him from under his lashes. “No. Make me feel better.” He reached out to grab Yoongi’s knee, expression pleading.

“How do you suggest I do that?” Yoongi asked, voice low.

Warmth stirred within Jimin, his body aching for the touch he’d been missing for weeks now. “T-Tae gave me his leftover contraceptives,” he said quietly.

“Jimin, you’ll only hurt yourself more.”

Jimin bit his lip and ran his hand up Yoongi’s thigh. “Please?” He rasped.

“No,” Yoongi said firmly, only arching a brow at Jimin’s pout. “You really think I’m not going to give priority to your safety?”

“I’d be turning my back to you if wasn’t so painful to move,” Jimin grumbled.

Yoongi brushed Jimin’s hair off of his forehead with a fond smirk. He leaned over the omega, waiting for Jimin to meet his eyes. “C’mon, Minie. What’re you being so stubborn for?”

Jimin puffed out his cheeks and kept his eyes trained over Yoongi’s shoulder. “Want you,” he mumbled indignantly.

“What was that?” Yoongi teased, moving in closer.

“Don’t be mean to me.”

“You’ve got to be clearer, pup,” Yoongi snickered.

“You’re supposed to be doting on me,” Jimin said, wrinkling his nose.

Yoongi watched him intently, then cupped Jimin’s flushed cheek. “Cute.”

“M’not.”

“But you really are,” Yoongi sighed. He closed the remaining distance, pressing his lips to Jimin’s chastely. Jimin’s tense expression eased up, and Yoongi kissed him again. Jimin tilted his head, urging Yoongi kiss him deeper, parting his lips after another moment.

Yoongi had other plans, though, breaking the contact not long after it had begun. Jimin blinked open his eyes, watching Yoongi with confusion as the alpha moved down, skimming his hands across Jimin’s torso. He shifted further onto the bed, hovering over Jimin. Yoongi pushed the hem of Jimin’s shirt up and brushed his lips across the taut muscles of Jimin’s abdomen. Jimin sucked in a breath, sensitive to the touch.

Yoongi kissed Jimin’s hip bone, then moved to the dip above it. He sucked at the skin, working Jimin up as his tongue laved over the spot repeatedly. Yoongi made a trail of short pecks up to Jimin’s chest, scrunching shirt up further until he could wrap his lips around a nipple.

Jimin shut his eyes tight and buried his fingers in Yoongi’s hair, holding on for leverage as Yoongi nipped at the hardened bud. “I thought you said,” Jimin gasped, “No.”

“I did,” Yoongi murmured, pulling off of Jimin to meet his eyes. He snuck a palm down to Jimin’s underwear, over his growing bulge.

“Wait, I—” Jimin threw his head back, shuddering under Yoongi’s careful ministrations. He felt slick leaking between his cheeks, could scent his own arousal in the air. “Mm,” Jimin groaned, words long lost.

“Wow, you are extra sensitive this morning,” Yoongi observed.

He plucked at the waistband of Jimin’s underwear, sliding it down at an agonizingly slow pace. He lightly ran his nails along Jimin’s bare hip, watching reverently as Jimin twitched beneath him.

Yoongi pulled the material down to Jimin’s thighs, past the new wrappings until he slid it off completely. He averted his attention to Jimin’s uninjured thigh, hiking his leg up for better access. Yoongi nipped at the supple flesh, grip digging into Jimin’s thick muscle. Yoongi was too far from where Jimin wanted him most. Jimin whined.

“Always so impatient,” Yoongi mumbled.

Yoongi sucked bruises onto the honeyed skin, leaving a wet trail as he moved up inch by inch. Jimin squirmed as Yoongi’s breath ghosted over his sensitive cock. Yoongi lingered, Jimin desperate for the alpha to just touch him.

Yoongi grasped a pillow and tapped Jimin’s hip, urging him to lift himself up. Jimin did as instructed, settling back on the pillow. Yoongi carefully grabbed Jimin’s legs next, placing them over his shoulders. Jimin felt anticipation build up, heavy in his lower abdomen.

Jimin gripped the sheets tightly when Yoongi parted his cheeks, then hissed out a ragged breath when he felt Yoongi’s tongue on his rim, lapping up the slick leaking out. “Yoon,” Jimin whined, shivering as the alpha swiped over his rim again, firmer this time.

Yoongi ran his hands along Jimin’s waist in a soothing motion and hummed; Jimin could feel the small vibrations against him. Yoongi pressed his tongue against Jimin harder, nipping lightly at the rim while Jimin gasped.

“I-inside,” Jimin stammered, mind a fog of lust.

Yoongi backed away to look at Jimin, brow arched. “That’s not a very polite request.”

Jimin frowned, eyes still shut tight.

“Jimin, look at me.”

Jimin groaned, frustrated over the lack of contact. He blinked against the bright light, trying to fix his hazy gaze on Yoongi. Jimin’s lips were swollen and red from kisses and his own teeth. His breathing was labored, cheeks and neck flushed a lovely red.

Yoongi stared at the omega a bit too long, caught up in the mere sight of Jimin.

Jimin shivered as Yoongi’s breath fanned over him again. “Please,” he said weakly.

Yoongi was roused back to reality, lips quirking up at Jimin’s broken voice. “There you go.”

Yoongi pressed a kiss to Jimin’s fluttering hole, the omega groaning at the abrupt action. Yoongi licked over him again, a beat passing before he finally pushed his tongue past the tight ring of muscle.

Jimin felt another wave of slick ease out of him, Yoongi lapping it right up and thrusting his tongue in deeper. Yoongi gripped Jimin’s uninjured thigh, then his hip with another hand, holding the omega down as he continued to squirm.

Jimin’s walls instinctively clenched around Yoongi, aching for something bigger. “Yoon,” Jimin whimpered, panting as Yoongi’s tongue dragged along his walls, stretching his rim further. “Inside,” he repeated.

Yoongi pulled back a moment, wiping slick off his chin. “I am inside.”

Jimin shook his head. “More,” he huffed.

Yoongi slipped a finger in up to the last knuckle without warning, watching Jimin intently as the omega tensed up. “Don’t you know good boys are quiet, Jiminie?”

“Mm,” Jimin mumbled, trying to shake his head, murky thought cut off short when a second finger joined Yoongi’s first, both curling into him, rubbing against his prostate. Jimin released a long, throaty whine.

Jimin’s cock was red and strained, laying untouched as Yoongi dipped down again to push his tongue in alongside his scissoring fingers, licking at the slick his careful ministrations were producing. With Yoongi’s constant rhythm against Jimin’s prostate, the omega wasn’t sure how long he could last.

His chest was heaving, entire body flushed and tight. Yoongi’s nails were digging into his hip, the sting only adding to his build-up of pleasure. Jimin was too warm, sweat beading along his temples. Everything was wet and hot. He was surrounded by his own scent of arousal, Yoongi’s heady scent mixed in as well.

Jimin shifted his hands around, clutching at the sheets but gaining no extra leverage. He gasped and quivered, rim tightening around Yoongi’s tongue and fingers. Then white behind his eyelids, a long overdue orgasm coursing through him.

Yoongi held Jimin down into the mattress, lapping up Jimin’s last wave of slick as the omega rode his high. Jimin’s breathing stopped for a moment, nerves buzzing and warm. His body eased up; he sank back with a tired sigh.

Yoongi smoothed a palm over Jimin’s thigh as he pulled away, tongue swiping over his chin and lower lip to get the remaining slick.

“Feel better now?” He asked gruffly. If Jimin wasn’t so fucked out, the sound alone would have turned him on.

Jimin had a hard time peeling his eyelids open, and an even harder time focusing his vision on the alpha hovering over him. “Uh huh,” Jimin mumbled, mouth feeling cottony.

Yoongi chuckled and quickly kissed his nose. “You really are cute,” he mused, rolling off the bed to grab a towel. He returned and wiped off the come on Jimin’s belly, then cleaned up the rest of the mess between his legs. “I’ll have to strip your sheets.”

“Later,” Jimin said.

Jimin laid out limply while Yoongi doted upon him, rolling his shirt over his belly and slipping the rest of his clothes back on. He only sat up once Yoongi urged him to, hand at his back while he held a glass of water up to Jimin’s lips. Jimin wrinkled his nose and took the glass from Yoongi. “I can do that much myself,” Jimin said. He took a few large gulps, then startled when a resolute knock sounded at his door.

Yoongi’s brows furrowed. He took the glass back, setting it down safely at the side table before he rose from the bed and answered the door. Jimin squinted as he tried to peer around Yoongi, the wolf across from him too short to see very well.

“I-I brought this for Jimin.” Oh, Dasung, Jimin realized.

Yoongi stepped back so Dasung could see him. Her eyes widened in shock as the sight and scent of what had just happened hit her. The smell of slick and sex pheromones were far from subtle.

The girl was holding a tray of food and tea, her knuckles white from her nervous grip. “Jimin,” she breathed. “How are you doing?”

“Fine. A little achy, but Hyunjae didn’t say I was dying, so,” Jimin shrugged.

Dasung worried her bottom lip and shifted her feet. “You, ah, told him it was my fault, right?” She asked, briefly glancing to Yoongi.

“We both made it out alive. I don’t think now’s the time to be casting blame,” Jimin said slowly, watching as Yoongi’s expression stiffened.

“Oh, I wouldn’t say that,” Yoongi murmured, frowning down at Dasung.

She suddenly thrusted the tray toward Yoongi, face pale. “W-well, I wanted to apologize for being so careless and not listening to Jimin’s warnings. And I want to help Jimin out some. If h-he needs anything else, I live on the first floor too. And I mean anything.” Her gaze flickered back to Jimin. “I can’t repay you enough for saving me.”

Jimin blinked at her in surprise, then nodded. “Just rest for now, okay? I know that sort of thing is jarring for someone who’s only starting out.”

“Alright,” Dasung said with hesitance. She stepped back, glancing between the both of them. “I’ll check on you again soon,” she quickly added, turning tail and leaving.

Yoongi shut the door behind her and returned to Jimin’s side, confusion evident in his expression. “Wasn’t expecting that,” he muttered. “Now I’m gonna feel weird punishing her.”

“Don’t punish her,” Jimin said firmly, reaching out to take the steaming mug of tea.

“What?”

“She’s a pup. She made a mistake and learned her lesson. So don’t punish her.”

“I thought you’d be jumping at this chance,” Yoongi replied, sitting beside him.

Jimin pursed his lips, then blew at the rising steam. “I guess I’m trying to be the mature one here?”

Yoongi snorted. “You? Mature?”

Jimin nudged him. “C’mon, Yoongi. Let me make an attempt.”

Yoongi smiled at Jimin with endearment and brushed the fringe out of Jimin’s eyes. “Fine. But if she does this shit again, I won’t be so easy on her.”

☽○☾

A week into his recovery, Jimin still had nothing to do. Dasung was at his door just about every day, often bringing him food and other supplies once Yoongi needed to return to work. Jimin’s entire hunting team was still out of commission. Hoseok visited Jimin when he was out of rut, then joined Chunhei’s team for the time being. Apparently Jungkook was having a hard time parting with Taehyung for any longer than an hour.

“Yoon,” Jimin said, gaze trailing after the alpha as he folded Jimin’s clothes, walking between the bed and Jimin’s dresser. “Yoon,” Jimin repeated when he was ignored.

Yoongi muffled a yawn and finally turned to Jimin, the omega sprawled out on his bed. He arched a questioning brow. “Yes?”

“I miss Tae,” Jimin sighed.

“You pestered me to tell me you prefer the company of someone else?”

“No,” Jimin huffed. “I wanna see him.”

“He can come see you when he’s ready.”

“What if I’m ready, though.”

“You know newly mated omegas like to hole themselves up and nest. Just wait for his hormones to calm down. It can’t be too much longer.”

“But what if it is,” Jimin groaned. “Take me to his cabin. I can’t walk there alone.”

“You’re admitting that you’re powerless if I say no.”

Jimin pouted and glared. “Never mind. I’ll find another alpha to take me.”

Yoongi’s lips quirked up in amusement. “And where are you gonna find one of those when you can’t even leave the omega dorm?”

Jimin’s eyes widened. He crossed his arms and turned over on his side, back to Yoongi.

“You’re acting very childish today, Jiminie,” Yoongi crooned.

“‘M bored,” Jimin whined, eyes narrowed at the wall.

Yoongi chuckled. “Y’know, I really think you should be thanking me for hanging around, taking care of you so well. I get you food. Help you to the bathroom. Change your gauze. I even did your laundry. What a kind alpha I am, hm?”

Jimin grumbled incoherently. The mattress dipped; he felt Yoongi’s palm on his hip.

“Jiminie,” Yoongi coaxed. “I’m not hearing a thank you.”

“Thanks,” Jimin mumbled dejectedly.

Yoongi nuzzled into Jimin’s neck and pressed Jimin’s back to his front, scenting him deeply. Jimin involuntarily purred as Yoongi’s hand smoothed up to his stomach, always content to be touched by his alpha.

“It’d be even better if you took me to Tae’s, though.”

He felt a puff of laughter against his neck. “Fine. I’ll take you tomorrow, after I have the chance to give them both warning. But only because I love you so much.”

A grin bloomed on Jimin’s lips. He wiggled around in Yoongi’s arms, nose brushing across the elder’s. Jimin kissed him.

Yoongi helped Jimin get to Taehyung’s home the following morning. While Jimin could technically walk, he had a heavy limp and required someone to lean on for constant support. It was a slow trek from the dorms to the cabins.

Jimin knocked and waited anxiously, still gripping onto Yoongi rather tightly. Jungkook answered the door, hair a mess and smelling strongly of his mate.

“Hey,” he said, looking Jimin up and down. “Can you even walk?”

“Sort of,” Yoongi answered for him. “Here, take him. I’ve got to go out with my team today. I’ll be back in a few hours.” Yoongi carefully handed Jimin off to Jungkook, as if he was much more fragile than Jimin actually felt.

“Yoonie, stay for a minute or two,” Jimin protested.

“And hang out in a place that reeks of another alpha? There’s a reason I moved out of the dorm quickly,” Yoongi snorted. “I’ll be back soon. Have fun,” he said, patting Jimin’s bum as he departed.

Jimin hissed in embarrassment, glaring up at Jungkook when he had the gall to chuckle.

“Wow, so you really tried to take on a bear, huh?” Jungkook asked as he maneuvered them through the entryway, shutting the door behind them. They were engulfed by the warmth of the house, the air almost thick with heat and mingled scents.

“Not by choice,” Jimin retorted.

They stepped into the living room and Taehyung shot up off the sofa, running toward Jimin at full speed. “Jiminie!” He exclaimed. Jimin braced himself as Taehyung threw his arms over the other omega’s shoulders, pressing them close together. He scented Jimin and hummed happily.

Jimin was a bit confused when he noticed a slight pressure against his stomach. Jimin hugged Taehyung back while he considered it, then it dawned on him. Oh. “Oh!” Jimin said, pushing Taehyung back. His eyes widened as he looked down at Taehyung’s belly. “You’ve actually got a bump.”

Taehyung blinked, as if he’d forgotten about it himself. Then he grinned. “Yup!” He chirped, taking the liberty to tug his shirt up. “I’m just over three months in now,” he explained. Jimin was astounded at the noticeable difference after a mere week and some change. Perhaps it was just more evident to Jimin now that he didn’t see Taehyung daily.

Jungkook watched with a warm expression as Taehyung rubbed his hand along his belly for emphasis. “You feel. It’s kinda weird,” he giggled, grabbing Jimin’s hand to set over the small swell.

It wasn’t big enough to be obvious under Taehyung’s loose shirt, but damn if it wasn’t a new sight to behold. Jimin paused, palm splayed over Taehyung’s lower abdomen, as the reality of the matter really started to sink in. There was a pup in there, in Jimin’s childhood friend. Weird indeed.

Observing Taehyung’s excitement, understanding the prospect of a life-to-be, for a brief moment Jimin almost felt... Jealous.

Jimin removed his hand and cleared his throat, trying to shake the thoughts out of his. He couldn’t get pregnant now. He’d been out of commission enough lately. Maybe in a year or so, leaving the later months of pregnancy for winter when he wouldn’t be hunting anyway.

“That’s amazing, Tae,” Jimin said quietly.

Taehyung nodded along, then grabbed Jimin’s upper arm, guiding him to their couch. The whole space looked rather cozy, multiple rugs laid out, fire bright and crackling. The sofa was piled with a ridiculous amount of pillows and blankets. Taehyung really had been nesting.

Taehyung tried shoving the mess to one side, frowning at his own disturbance of the nest. “It’s okay. You don’t have to move everything,” Jimin said, settling down in a spot with the least blankets. “You sure are getting comfortable.”

“You should see the bedroom,” Jungkook muttered.

“Are you complaining, Kook?” Taehyung huffed.

“Nope. I definitely enjoyed moving the wardrobe three times,” Jungkook replied with a sheepish half-smile.

“You may not admit it, but I know you did it with pride,” Jimin chastised. Taehyung settled into his mass of fabric and furs, Jungkook sitting very close behind him. Taehyung leaned into him heavily. “Alphas do that, y’know. Get all proud and posture-y when they’re providing for their expecting omega. This is what they live for.”

“I don’t know if it’s what I live for,” Jungkook said. Taehyung glanced up at him in surprise. The former’s expression softened. “Well, I guess it could be.”

“So,” Jimin said slowly, pulling his legs up with a slight wince. “When are you guys planning on returning to society?”

“Soon,” Taehyung said with a shrug.

“Just soon? No estimate?”

“I’m sure Kookie will get antsy soon enough. He can only go so long without hunting. He’s already pacing around the house,” Taehyung replied.

“Part of me really wants to get out there already, but another part gets anxious at just the thought of leaving,” Jungkook added.

“So it’s true that mating kinda makes you feel attached?” Jimin asked, making a twining motion with his fingers.

“Yeah, you could say that,” Taehyung said. “There’s this pull at my heart when he’s away for too long. I wanted to bake bread a couple days ago, so Kook went to the dining hall to get flour. He was only got for like, twenty minutes. But I got really uncomfortable, in a physical way.”

“I asked my parents about it, and they said to just slowly test the waters. A half hour here, an hour there. I think we need to start with getting Tae out of the house,” Jungkook said.

Taehyung ducked his head a bit bashfully. “My instincts are telling me I’m safe here, so I find myself laying around and nesting half the time. It’s odd, since that urge only got strong once we mated.”

Jimin paused, focusing in on Taehyung’s neck. He’d been too preoccupied earlier to notice the mating bite. “Oh, wow,” he gasped, taking the other wolves by surprise as he leaned in to get a better look. “Did it hurt?” Jimin asked, pointing at the bite.

They both flushed red.

“Uh, not really. We were, um, y’know, doing what you do when you mate,” Taehyung stuttered out.

“You were fucking,” Jimin said bluntly, arching a brow in amusement over Taehyung’s embarrassment. “It’s okay, you can say it. We all know the process.”

Taehyung rubbed at his warm cheeks. “I-it stung a little. I imagine you wouldn’t really feel it at all if you were in heat. Then it ached the next day. Hasn’t hurt other than that, though. Healed over really well.”

“Mine definitely bled more than Tae’s,” Jungkook said with a frown. “I knew he was a biter, but—” He grunted as Taehyung elbowed him.

“Enough about us,” Taehyung said, raising his voice. “What about you? Are you still in any pain?”

“Not really,” Jimin shook his head. “The pain is minimal. The injury itself is really just an inconvenience. I can barely walk, definitely can’t hunt. I feel pent up, like I wanna just sink my teeth into something, y’know?”

Jungkook nodded while Taehyung grimaced. “Graphic,” Taehyung muttered.

“Yoongi doesn’t let me go anywhere, though. He said I shouldn’t hunt again until January. January,” Jimin emphasized. “What am I gonna do for another month? Sew a quilt?”

“Mate,” Taehyung fake coughed into his fist.

Jimin narrowed his eyes at the omega. “I don’t need to do everything you do, Tae. We’re not pups anymore.”

“But that’s my argument. We’re not pups anymore,” he replied conversationally. “Don’t you think about having a family?”

“I’ve got one,” Jimin said simply. “I feel like I’ve got Jae nagging me every other day. Who knows how much I’ll have to deal with Jihyun if he presents as an omega. My brother and I living under the same roof again?” Jimin said with a scoff. “Sounds like too much family.”

Taehyung frowned. “You know what I mean.”

“And I’m saying, what’s the rush?” Jimin retorted.

Taehyung rolled his eyes. “You act like we’re all gonna live forever.”

Jimin stiffened and looked away.

“C’mon, Chim. I just think we should love who we’ve got while they’re still around. The world is scary right now. One thing I’ve learned is that it’s okay to jump into the things you want, as long they’re going to make you happy. Mating a year early? Alright. Surprise pup? Sure, I can handle that with a smile.”

“Jumping in can get you into fucked up situations,” Jimin quietly argued.

“How badly can you fuck up with Yoongi?” Taehyung said with exasperation. “He’s your goddamn soulmate, Jimin. You love each other to the afterlife and back.”

Jimin inhaled a shaky breath. As much as Jimin was reluctant to admit it, Taehyung had a point. Jimin knew Yoongi. Felt a connection with him deeper than words could describe. For years, there had been no question as to who Jimin wanted to be with.

Yet, permanence was frightening.

“I know,” Jimin finally murmured. “I’m thinking about it, trust me. I’ve also got a lot else on my mind right now, though. Like when the fuck I’m going to get back out into the woods. My room is beginning to feel very suffocating.”

Taehyung snorted. “Hey, I’ll leave my space when you leave yours,” he joked.

Jimin shook his head and muffled a laugh. “Great. I look forward to seeing you in an entire month, then.”

☽○☾

Dasung carefully brought two hot mugs of tea to Jimin’s bedside table, wincing when she stumbled slightly. Jimin was leaned up against the wall, pillow in his lap. “Thanks,” he said quietly as she set them down, then sat on the edge of the mattress.

“You look bored,” Dasung stated.

“I am. Aren’t you?”

Dasung sheepishly shook her head. “Hoseok and I actually went out yesterday. Probably will again tomorrow.”

“Dammit,” Jimin grumbled, hugging the pillow to his chest. “What’s he got you working on?”

“Herding. We’re practicing on smaller animals. Caught a couple foxes yesterday,” Dasung said. “Those fuckers are fast.”

“Maybe you just need to build up your stamina,” Jimin suggested, reaching out for a mug. He blew hesitantly at the steam as it fanned across his cheeks, condensation sticking to his skin like summer humidity.

“Should I run laps around the territory?”

“Maybe,” Jimin shrugged. “Were you not active as a pup? I was definitely fit enough by the time I started training.”

Dasung frowned and grabbed her own tea. “As a pup, yeah I was active. Then I spent the past two years in the kitchen and lost any muscle I may have had.”

“Two years is long enough to get settled into a job,” Jimin said carefully. “I still don’t really understand why you’d leave it.”

“I got kicked out,” Dasung said in a dull tone.

Jimin glanced up, startled at the news. “What? How?”

“I mean, not officially, but they were hostile enough,” Dasung shrugged. “Even though the head omega technically runs the dining hall, he isn’t exactly around a lot. Especially since he had his pup. Now there are alphas in charge during a lot of shifts, and they really don’t like back talk.”

Jimin furrowed his brows. “What, do they like, snap at you?”

“Basically. And I’m not talking about the older wolves. Wolves that around the same age as me, who don’t have any cooking background from home. Whenever I tried to do things my way, they’d chew me out. And if I ignored them, it was even less pleasant. Then the omegas got all chattery and I uh, was sorta exiled from the inner group,” she chuckled uneasily.

“You weren’t doing anything wrong, right? Cooking-wise,” Jimin inquired.

Dasung shook her head. “I grew up cooking. That was the one skill my Eomma hammered into me. So I was really freaked out when I got on the bad side of the staff. You could say I had a bit of a crisis.”

“So you just decided to be a hunter?”

“Basically. I said ‘fuck it’ and dropped my job in the kitchen, signed up to start training, talked to Yoongi about it literally a day after. Fell into a destructive spiral, figuring since I was already disappointing my parents, might as well go after whatever else I want in the process.” Dasung laughed dryly. “That obviously worked out great.”

Jimin sighed. “You dumb, dumb pup.”

Dasung sipped at her tea, wincing as it burned her tongue. “Yup. Hey, at least I’m doing something I want to do now. The kitchen was always so boring.”

“You’re really terrible at making friends, aren’t you?” Jimin continued.

“Eomma never got around to teaching me how to be nice,” Dasung joked. “Sorry for getting you caught up in my spiral, by the way.”

“Oh trust me, I was spiraling too,” Jimin muttered, hating to even think about his freak out at Yoongi. “Two stressed, stubborn omegas should never butt heads like we did.”

“Catastrophe,” Dasung said bluntly.

“Mm,” Jimin agreed, humming as the hot tea slid across his tongue, warming him from the inside out.

“Yoongi hates me now, doesn’t he?” Dasung said suddenly.

Jimin tilted his head in consideration. “Sort of. He’s not happy over you hitting on him, and he... he likes having someone to blame when bad shit happens. Even if I try to tell him otherwise, you’re at fault for the bear incident in his mind.”

“It was my fault,” Dasung said simply.

“Slow down there, pup,” Jimin huffed. “Too much maturing in one go, and you’re gonna give me whiplash.”

Dasung rolled her eyes.

There was a short knock at Jimin’s door before it creak open, Yoongi stepping inside with snow melting on his coat and in his hair. “Hey. Still alive?” He greeted.

Dasung sighed dramatically. “I’m sorry to inform you, but Hunter Park passed mere minutes ago.”

Jimin snorted, then smiled at Yoongi. “Come check my heartbeat for yourself.”

Dasung scooted down to allow Yoongi room, expression a bit awkward now.

Yoongi laid a palm flat and firmly on Jimin’s chest, face pinched as he pretended to concentrate. “Cold, yet beating.”

Jimin pushed him away with an exasperated huff, only for Yoongi to lean right back into him. He sat beside Jimin and pecked his cheek.

“Is it cold out there?” Jimin asked, brushing his fingers through Yoongi’s damp hair.

“Not if you keep moving,” Yoongi shrugged. “The clouds are drifting away, so the snow should let up soon. Hopefully the sun will come out and warm up the air somewhat.”

Jimin shifted and faced Yoongi with excitement. “Can I make snow people?”

Yoongi blinked at him. “Why d’you wanna do that? It’s cold, Jiminie.”

“You just said it’d be okay,” Jimin pouted. “There’s a nice clearing not too far south. I’m sure there’s been plenty of snow buildup for the past few days. Entertain me.”

“Jimin,” Yoongi murmured tiredly.

Jimin hunched into himself and gave Yoongi his best pup eyes. “Yoonie,” he whined, pushing himself up against the alpha. “I’m so bored here. Don’t you want me to be happy?”

“Sure, happy and not freezing your ass off.”

“I’ll take him if you don’t,” Dasung piped in.

Yoongi’s attention snapped toward her. “No you won’t,” he said quickly. “We’ve seen how well that goes.”

“Yoongi,” Jimin grumbled, nudging him. “C’mon. Please?”

Yoongi frowned at him for a long moment, took in Jimin’s dramatic pout. He grasped Jimin’s chin. “Are you patient enough to wait an hour or two?”

Jimin visibly perked up. “Sure, why?”

“I’m guessing that’s how long it’ll be before the weather lightens up.”

“Yes, Yoon. I’ll be really patient. I’ll clean my room and eat a snack and drink lots of water—”

Yoongi burst into chuckles, releasing his grip. “Fine, fine,” he quelled. “If your leg starts hurting you too much, we’ll come back, though.”

“Of course,” Jimin lied, already rousing from his spot on the bed. “Dasung, help me clear out all this cups and dishes.”

Yoongi shook his head in fond exasperation.

Jimin was wrapped up tight in furs when they departed from the omega dorm. His limp was lighter now and walking itself was an easier task. He still leaned on Yoongi, their pace rather slow as they passed the tree line, traversing through the rougher terrain of the forest.

The snow was probably only three inches deep. Not enough to truly hinder them. Some roots were buried, however, leaving them cautious over the prospect of tripping. Yoongi guided Jimin through winding paths of trees, certain areas even darker than Jimin remembered, thanks to their ice and snow-laden branches. Half of the forest was coniferous, leaving quite a few heavy branches of frozen pine and fir needles, bare branches of the deciduous swaying between.

The woods looked different during every season. Jimin tried to decipher his usual routes now that the ground was almost entirely covered. They reached the clearing after much effort, however, emerging into a white field where poppies once swayed.

Jimin nearly jumped with excitement, detaching himself from Yoongi to wobble out further. He sank to his knees a few steps in and dug his fingers into the snow, grinning as the chill numbed his reddening palms. “I feel like a pup again,” Jimin snickered, already forming a ball between his hands, packing more and more snow in.

He set it down in a new patch, rolling it across the field as the ball grew. Yoongi merely watched him for the first couple minutes, then joined in, helping Jimin push the increasingly heavy mound of snow.

“It’s old enough to pack well. Not much of that light and flimsy texture. I could probably mold some ears once we’re done with the body,” Jimin rambled, huffing as they came to a stop, standing above the lower half of their creation. “Looks good,” Jimin said decidedly. He scampered toward an untouched area to get started on his next ball.

“Don’t strain yourself,” Yoongi reminded, smiling at Jimin all the same. He dusted new snow off his knees and trailed after Jimin at a more even pace.

“D’you remember when your appa would break off icicles from the roof of your cabin, then give them to us to suck on?” Jimin asked as he patted another mound together.

“Uh huh. Then Eomma would come out and rant about how unsanitary it was.”

“It’s not like we ever got sick,” Jimin giggled. “Would you let our pups eat icicles?”

Yoongi hummed. “If they’re not sharp at the point, sure.”

Jimin looked up at Yoongi, pausing as he noticed the elder’s ruddy cheeks. He felt the bite of cold against his own skin, distracted enough from his task to really take in the winter scene before them.

The sky was rather white, soft sunrays peeking through a small break in the blanket of clouds. Wind swayed the bony branches surrounding them, limbs stretching into the stark backdrop like quivering black shadows.

The forest was silent. Jimin could hear his own puffs of air, see the breath in wisps before him. Yet the rest of the world seemed so eerily still. Old snow crunched under Yoongi’s weight as he stepped forward. Then nothing. The birds were gone, grass buried too deep to dance and whisper.

Winter was here, and Jimin felt it like a cold rush of water in his veins.

“Is it already too heavy for you?” Yoongi questioned, smirking down at Jimin’s idle form.

Jimin gaped. He shook his head. “No. Just... got distracted,” he said distantly.

Yoongi’s expression fell. “You okay, Min?”

“Mm,” Jimin mumbled. “It’s quiet out here, isn’t it?”

“I suppose,” Yoongi replied, glancing around as well.

“Kinda feels like everything’s dead.”

Yoongi crossed his arms and shrugged. “Life will return in the spring. The flowers and the birds and the rabbits will all be back soon enough,” Yoongi said softly. “That’s what’s so nice about a territory like this. Everything runs its course.”

Jimin blinked at Yoongi, taking a moment to admire his calm expression and lax features, the way his gaze skittered over the field and up toward the horizon.

“Hey, Yoon,” Jimin said quietly.

Yoongi seemed a bit surprised by the tone as his eyes met Jimin’s. “Hm?”

“I love you.”

There was a confused furrow to his brow. He huffed out a chuckle. “Love you too.”

Jimin nodded to himself, then dug his fingers into his growing ball of snow. He turned back to his task at hand, feeling Yoongi’s curious gaze still lingering warm on his back.

Jimin patted and rolled, patted and rolled amidst the peaceful atmosphere, only snickering when Yoongi said his fingers were turning blue.

“Hyunjae’s going to have to amputate them if you’re not careful,” Yoongi joked, helping Jimin heave the second, smaller snowball toward their first.

“I know my limit,” Jimin whined. “It’s fine.”

Yoongi just shook his head. They stopped; Yoongi looked between the two snowballs, assessing how heavy the second one was going to be to lift.

“I guess I’ll go look for some rocks for the eyes while you take care of this,” Jimin said cheekily, already stepping away.

Yoongi scowled. “You’re not going to help even a little?”

“I thought I wasn’t supposed to strain myself,” Jimin said with mock innocence.

“Oh, you really are a brat.”

Jimin crinkled his nose in delight. “But you love me.”

“Begrudgingly,” Yoongi said dramatically.

Jimin was still smiling when he turned around, planning to search through the patches they had already uncovered for pretty stones. A breeze blew through the clearing, carrying what sounded like voices. Jimin paused, smile quickly waning.

He waited a beat, figuring he just imagined it. No hunters would be out this late in the day, out of their wolf forms no less. There it was again—a voice, pitched one moment, tone evening out the next. The snow muddled the scent, only contributing to Jimin’s uneasy feeling.

Jimin shifted over to Yoongi, eyes wide and lips parted. His heart was beating too loud. “Yoongi, do you hear that?” Jimin murmured.

Yoongi had been crouching down to pick up the snowball, only to swiftly straighten up, already on high alert. Jimin gestured toward the northeast, close to their tracks leading into the clearing.

Yoongi narrowed his eyes and stepped closer to Jimin, shoulders squared defensively. The trees weren’t too far off. The intruders could be close.

“The tracks split up here,” one of the foreign voices said, near and clear enough for Jimin to finally make out the words. They held an accent, nothing Jimin could place, however.

Jimin stiffened and clutched at Yoongi’s arm. “That’s none of our wolves. Let’s go,” Jimin harshly whispered, terror overtaking him. Usually he’d be up for a fight, but in his current state, Jimin stood no real chance.

Yoongi nodded slowly and began to push Jimin away from the direction of the voices.

“Hey, stop!” Someone shouted. Two men emerged from the shade of the woods, one pointing a long, gleaming rod of metal at them.

Jimin froze. Yoongi snarled.

“Wait—” Jimin hissed, plea arriving too late. Yoongi was already shifting, taking a protective stance in front of Jimin.

The men stumbled back in surprise at the sight of Yoongi shifting. Jimin could only watch them in confusion. Were they not wolves themselves? Jimin focused in on the foreign weapon, then, realization hitting like a sharp pain to his gut. Humans.

“Whose command are you under?” One of the humans shouted.

Jimin flinched at the volume, too shocked to respond.

“He looks young,” the other said. He addressed Jimin again; “What are you doing out here? A-and with this animal?”

“Animal?” Jimin echoed. “No, we’re wolves.”

The humans exchanged a look. “Just grab him,” one said to the other.

The human without the weapon advanced toward them. Yoongi growled in warning, yet the human ignored it.

“Keep your dog down!” The idle one shouted.

Yoongi broke into a run, surprising them both. Jimin shifted while the humans were distracted, knowing he was better equipped for survival in his wolf form. Yoongi sprinted quicker than the humans could properly react.

One human pushed something on his weapon, a loud, echoing sound resounding in the wake. Jimin’s ears were ringing; he tried to refocus his attention on Yoongi, finding him still uninjured. The alpha jumped and snapped his jaws around the unarmed human’s arm, dragging him down. Yoongi wrenched him into the snow.

Another thundering boom went off and Yoongi barked in pain.

“Are you hurt?” Jimin asked frantically, running over to help. He tried to ignore the strain in his thigh.

“Just my shoulder. Stay back,” Yoongi replied. There was already blood matting his dark fur, yet he finished the human off, tearing into his throat. The human was barely capable of putting up a fight without a weapon of his own.

Jimin made it to the remaining human, seemingly unsuspecting of Jimin’s attack. He was aiming the rod at Yoongi again, teeth gritted. Jimin rammed into him before he use the weapon, knocking the metal out of his hands. Jimin snarled and bit into the human’s leg. The human yelped in pain and collapsed to his knees. Jimin overwhelmed him and bit into his throat, killing him in a burst of fear and rage.

Jimin’s mind was abuzz when he stepped back, adrenaline still thick in his arteries. Jimin’s injured leg was throbbing. He staggered over to Yoongi, heart stopping when he found the alpha collapsed.

Jimin howled.

He limped the rest of the way to Yoongi, breathing labored as he tried to assess the damage. Blood. There was so much blood. It was all flowing out of one wound, tattered red flesh sticking out starkly against the black fur of Yoongi’s shoulder.

Jimin shifted back, whimpering as he knelt beside his alpha. Jimin pressed his shaking hands over the wound, knowing he needed to stop the bleeding somehow. He could only hope the wolves at home heard his cry for help.

“Yoon,” Jimin whispered, voice wavering. The alpha was panting, eyes closed. “Yoongi, please.”

Jimin’s hands were wet and crimson, blood gushing out between his fingers. Jimin felt helpless, body seized up in panic. He couldn’t watch Yoongi die. Not like this. They were supposed to have so much more time left together.

The snow was red, a sea of death surrounding Jimin and Yoongi, advancing inch by inch. And all Jimin could do was sit in it.

There were flashes in Jimin’s mind then, brief glimpses of another time, another limp body in a pool of warm blood. A man older than Yoongi. Jimin knelt helplessly at his side, frozen.

Jimin pushed the memories back. He pressed against Yoongi’s wound harder, tears streaking down his cheeks as he silently wept. Jimin fell forward, resting his forehead to Yoongi’s thick fur. “Don’t leave me,” Jimin said brokenly.

He couldn’t be sure how much time passed. The flow of blood seemed never-ending, and Yoongi’s breathing only continued to grow more shallow. He had fallen unconscious.

A howl not far off. A response to Jimin’s plea.

Heavy footfalls advanced toward them, breaking into the clearing. Jimin couldn’t hear them, couldn’t scent them. His senses were overtaken solely by Yoongi.

Then Jimin was wrenched away. He released a high-pitched whine, struggling against the hold around him. Someone was shushing him, wrapping his bare body in a fur. “Jimin,” the voice urged. “It’s okay. We’ve got you. Hyejin and Wheein are going to carry him back. He’s going to be okay.”

Jimin continued to writhe, desperately trying to reach Yoongi—his mate.

Jimin’s nose was suddenly pressed to the crook of the wolf’s neck, calming pheromones overwhelming Jimin in a sweeping wave. He fell limp in the other’s arms. “Breathe, Jimin. I’ve got you.”

Hoseok, that’s who it was.

Hoseok picked Jimin and up and cradled him to his chest. Jimin could only watch as he was carried away from Yoongi. Watch, and try to breathe.

Chapter Text

Glimmering blue waves crashed against the western shore, white foam surging up against the sand, just barely reaching their feet. Sea spray collected on Jimin’s cheeks, salt stiff against his skin, leaving behind a dewy shine. The end of autumn was nearing, sun a dying orange against the hazy line of the horizon.

Jimin was hyperaware of Yoongi’s hand atop his, skin prickling under the minimal weight. They’d been courting for less than a month, and Jimin still wasn’t sure how to act with this development.

“Did Taehyung and Hoseok leave?” Yoongi asked.

“Mm. Back to the trees to set up tents,” Jimin murmured. He chewed his lower lip. “We should probably head back soon, too. It’ll get cold once the sun is gone.”

“Yeah, we should.”

Neither made an attempt to move. Silence passed between them, tension building within Jimin. He didn’t have a clue whether Yoongi felt the same. Jimin made a furtive glance over to the alpha.

The tide inched closer.

“Should I share a tent with Tae?” Jimin blurted.

Yoongi turned to him and blinked in confusion. “Why wouldn’t you?”

“I—” Jimin balked. “I don’t know. Never mind.”

Right. Yoongi wouldn’t want to sleep with him. They hadn’t even kissed yet, for fuck’s sake.

“Jimin,” Yoongi said, attempting to draw his attention. Jimin blushed. “What are you so nervous about?”

“Nothing,” Jimin muttered.

“Nothing? I don’t believe that,” Yoongi scoffed. He reached over to pinch Jimin’s

pink cheek, removing his hand from Jimin’s in the process.

“Stop,” Jimin whined, batting him away. “I’m fine, really.”

Yoongi narrowed his eyes at the younger. “Uh huh,” he said slowly. He analyzed Jimin long and hard, the latter growing even more embarrassed under the attention.

“Just drop it, okay?” Jimin groaned.

Yoongi gasped, then. “You thought I wanted to share a tent with you!”

Jimin groaned and shoved him. “Shut up.”

“Oh my god, Jimin. That’s so funny,” Yoongi snickered. “You know I invited you out here for a late birthday celebration, right? I wasn’t gonna—I didn’t—I don’t have those kinds of expectations, alright? You don’t have to worry about it.”

“But it’s natural for me to worry about it!” Jimin protested, red to the tips of his ears. “We’re not just friends anymore, a-and alphas want to have s-sex with omegas they’re attracted to.”

“You really think this is me seducing you?”

“I wouldn’t know! I’ve never been seduced before!”

“Okay, well, rest assured I’m not seducing you,” Yoongi said firmly, palms up in surrender. “I don’t know what kind of alphas you’re hanging around, but I’m not in this for sex.”

Jimin squinted. “You’re not?”

“Jimin, I’ve loved you since we were pups. Just because you’re an omega doesn’t mean I suddenly only want to—to—” He flailed his arms, gesturing.

“What, so you’d really still want me if I didn’t present as an omega?”

“Of course,” Yoongi insisted.

“You’d love an alpha Jimin?”

“You’d still be Jimin, wouldn’t you?”

Jimin paused, taken aback. “I guess so,” he mumbled.

“And what about me? Would you accept the courtship if I was an omega?”

“Obviously. I think it’d still feel right,” Jimin said without hesitation.

“This feels right to you?”

Jimin met Yoongi’s eyes, saw the joy and hope behind them. “Yeah,” he replied, voice softening. “Yeah, it does.”

Jimin smiled, heart fluttering within his ribcage. Yoongi placed his hand on Jimin’s again, twining their fingers together this time. Jimin heaved an exhale.

“So, when do you want to have sex?”

Yoongi spluttered. “W-when we mate.”

Jimin’s eyes widened, lips parting. “Seriously? That’s like, years away,” he exclaimed.

Yoongi shrugged. “I don’t mind.”

“You don’t have heats! Of course it’s fine for you.”

“I’ve got ruts,” Yoongi argued.

“It’s different,” Jimin said, puffing his cheeks out.

Yoongi poked him and chuckled. “Is it really?”

Jimin shifted over swiftly and shoved Yoongi. The alpha was taken completely by surprise, falling over into the sand. Jimin burst into giggles over Yoongi’s annoyed look. Jimin pushed himself up and hovered over Yoongi.

“It really is,” Jimin insisted.

“Well, will just a kiss be fine for now?”

“I don’t see how that would help my heats—”

Yoongi leaned up, cupping Jimin’s cheek, and pressed his lips firmly to Jimin’s. Jimin was too shocked to close his eyes. He didn’t exactly know what to do with himself in the first place.

But Yoongi’s lips were warm, and that heat spread through Jimin like a coursing wave in his veins.

Yoongi laid back down and assessed Jimin’s expression.

“Oh,” Jimin said simply.

“Sorry, was that—”

“Shh,” Jimin cut him off, still considering how he felt. It wasn’t bad. Not as exciting as some of the omegas made it out to be. Maybe they were doing a different kind of kissing? This version was pleasant enough, though. “It was nice, I think,” Jimin said decidedly.

He leaned down for another.

A large wave crashed ashore, pushing chilled waters along the dark sand. Sea foam washed into Yoongi’s hair and he gasped. Jimin pulled away. “What?” He breathed.

“Cold,” Yoongi complained.

There was second of quiet, then they laughed.

☽○☾

Jimin tightened and released his grip, over and over, fingers clenched into the material of Hoseok’s shirt. The dining hall was a dull buzz in the back of his mind, cautious wolves filtering in and out. The dinner crowd was past. Now most everyone in the area were worried onlookers, waiting for reality to snap back into Jimin.

But it didn’t. Jimin didn’t have much concept of time, sitting there in the alpha’s lap, staring at nothing. He’d worried his lip red and bloody. His knuckles ached from his constant movement. Other than that, Jimin really wasn’t there.

Taehyung sent furtive glances between Jungkook at his side, and Jimin across from him. “Jiminie,” he said hesitantly, “Do you want to try drinking some water?”

The hand secured around his waist tapped him. Jimin didn’t respond. He felt Hoseok’s sigh, his chest heaving from beneath Jimin’s cheek.

“Should I go check again?” Jungkook asked.

“No good. A medic will come to us when they think he’s stable,” Hoseok said.

“How long’s it been now?” Taehyung asked.

“Two hours, I think,” Hoseok replied.

“Did Jae say when his shock will go down?”

“She didn’t really have the time to.”

“Do they even know how to treat an injury like that?”

“I... I don’t know.”

Jimin clenched his fist tighter and paused. He stopped breathing for a moment. All attention turned to him. There was a beat of nothing, then Jimin unclenched.

Taehyung exhaled. “Was he crying when you took him away?”

“Mm. Abruptly stopped before we made it back here, though. I’m starting to wonder if it was the best idea to keep him from Yoongi.”

“Not like they can operate on him with Jimin clinging to his side,” Jungkook said.

“Sooyun should be back with more blankets soon,” Taehyung commented. “Hopefully he responds to her this time. She looked so heartbroken when he refused to be touched.”

“He just needs time,” Hoseok replied.

Taehyung rubbed absently at his stomach. “Is he gonna be allowed to stay in the infirmary when they’re done?”

“Only mates can stay overnight.”

There was a pause. “I think this is an exception.”

The dining hall door swung open, a gust of winter wind following. Sooyun rushed toward them, arms full of blankets and furs, snow melting in her hair. “How’s my baby?” She huffed, collapsing in the seat beside Hoseok. She shook off a blanket and carefully wrapped it over Jimin’s shoulders, letting Hoseok tuck it around him.

Jimin blinked rapidly, his mother’s scent hitting him like a wave. His heartbeat sped up; there was a flicker of light within the haze of his mind. Words became more clear, started to make sense to his ringing ears. There was a comfort in the new scent surrounding him. But something else was missing. A scent that lingered on him already. Jimin’s eyes widened a fraction.

“Yoongi,” he gasped, shifting forward.

Hoseok quickly tightened his grasp, preventing Jimin from slipping away. “In the infirmary,” Hoseok said swiftly. “Alive, Jimin. He’s alive.”

Jimin struggled, breathing suddenly erratic. “N-no, let go. I have to see him!” Jimin insisted.

“Jimin,” Sooyun said sharply, cupping his cheeks and holding him in place. She looked him in the eye. “Stop.”

Jimin froze, gasping.

“Jaejae’s with him now,” she said in a gentler tone. “Don’t you trust her to take care of our boy?”

Tears welled in Jimin’s eyes. “I-I don’ want him t-to die,” Jimin whimpered.

“I know,” Sooyun whispered, trying to keep a brave face. “He won’t.” She pulled Jimin closer, held the back of his head, and rested his cheek against her shoulder. Sooyun shushed him as he hiccupped. “It’s okay. It’s going to be okay. Look, all your friends are here to support you.”

Jimin clung to her as they swayed. He felt Jungkook and Taehyung’s gazes on him, searching and expectant.

“Why don’t you eat something? Drink water?” Sooyun suggested. “It might be a long evening.”

Taehyung slid a glass of water closer, watching as Jimin reached out with a shaking hand. Jimin’s movements were sluggish; he only sipped at the drink, until he felt just how dry his throat was. His face felt stiff, too, from his previous crying. Jimin began to drink more heartily, noticing Taehyung’s expression of relief.

When Jimin finally set the glass down, he looked to Taehyung. “You left your house.”

There was a beat of surprise, then Taehyung broke into a grin and released a wet laugh. “Yeah. Yeah, I did.” He leaned closer and laid his hand atop Jimin’s. “How are you feeling?”

“Scared,” Jimin said honestly. “I might’ve hurt my leg again, but I’m not really feeling it yet.”

“A medic looked over it while you were huffing and whining,” Hoseok cut in. “You didn’t reopen anything, but it might ache for a few days.”

“Do you, ah, remember everything that happened?” Sooyun asked tentatively.

“Yeah,” he said slowly. “And then some.”

Sooyun paused the hand that had been moving up and down his back. She looked at him, brushed the fringe from his eyes. “What do you mean?”

Jimin exhaled heavily. He hadn’t wanted to dissect what he saw in the memory, but he could conclude one thing—it was indeed a memory. Something he’d long suppressed. Jimin clutched the blanket around himself tighter.

“You didn’t tell me you killed him.”

Silence strung out, taut as a wire.

Sooyun’s hold fell away. She pulled back, breath caught in her throat, and looked at Jimin. Jimin’s expression was solemn, body and mind tired.

“I’d be more specific, but I still don’t know his name, Eomma,” Jimin muttered.

“How?” Sooyun said simply.

“How did I remember?” Jimin asked, waiting for her curt nod. “It was what you were so afraid of—something triggered it. I was sitting in my own mate’s blood, and suddenly I was hit with images of my father bleeding out right in front of me. And you, standing above us with a damn human weapon.”

“Jimin,” she said with caution. “I assure you, there’s more to the story.”

“Then tell me,” Jimin said firmly. “I’ve got nothing else to do tonight, other than worry if my mate is really going to make it out alive. And I’ve remembered my father’s death now, so there should be no reason for you to keep an explanation from me.”

Taehyung had been left reeling as he took in their conversation. “Your mate?” He suddenly voiced.

Jimin stopped. It had been an unconscious utterance. Jimin cleared his throat and averted his gaze.

“I guess we can unpack that later,” Jungkook muttered.

Jimin finally removed himself from Hoseok’s lap completely, settling in the space between the alpha and his mother. He leveled his attention on Sooyun, waiting for her long overdue response.

She inhaled unsteadily. “Alright. What do you want to know?”

“Everything,” Jimin stated. “Where we’re from, who you were. Who he was.”

“That’s going to be a long story, Jimin,” Sooyun quietly warned.

“Like I said, we’ve got time.”

Sooyun nodded and twined her fingers in her lap, nervous. She tilted her head and stared at the table, allowing herself to drift off into those faraway memories. “We come from the Baek pack.”

“South of the Kwons?” Jimin asked.

“Yes, much farther than you’d think. Nowhere near the ocean, but there was a lake by the territory, cold in the spring from snow melting off the mountains. I’m sure there are rivers and streams near here that lead into it.” She cleared her throat. “Um, things were very different there. Omegas didn’t really work. We actually mated within a year of presenting.”

The wolves around them stiffened, uncomfortable at the notion. Newly presented wolves were practically still pups.

“Did... did you?” Jimin questioned.

Sooyun bit the inside of her cheek. “Yes.”

“To...?”

“Your father. I wasn’t his first mate, either. But when his omega passed, he set his sights on me. Asked my family for my hand before I’d really even spoken to him.”

“If you were his second, how much older was he?”

Sooyun closed her eyes as she concentrated. “Six years older? Maybe seven. Alphas tended to mate later than omegas in any circumstance, one of those irritating double standards. Apparently our wombs were only good for so long, but the alphas could breed whenever they wanted,” she said with a bitterness to her tone. “He was with his first mate for probably two years. There was a rumor she was infertile. Then she mysteriously fell ill. What a coincidence, hm?”

Hoseok must have noticed Jimin’s scent spiking with displeasure, as his hand found its way to his lower back, steadying him.

“Anyway, she died before long. I presented. And suddenly he came into my life.”

“Why so soon? Isn’t that suspicious?” Jimin asked, an edge to his voice.

Sooyun shook her head. “He needed an alpha heir. Leadership is passed down through bloodlines with the Baeks. Hojun was set to be the next pack alpha.”

“Hojun,” Jimin echoed, rolling it over his tongue.

“Yes. He... I don’t know what he saw in me. Maybe he just thought I was attractive, or figured I came from fertile lineage. I had four other siblings, so that wouldn’t be the most absurd conclusion.”

“Do you miss them?”

Sooyun seemed startled at the question. Her gaze snapped to Jimin. “What?”

“Your siblings, do you miss them?”

“Only one,” she said slowly. “I was the only omega, so I was an easy target. But my older brother was even-tempered and kind.”

“And his name?” Jimin prompted, hungry for more, for the family he’d been stripped of.

“Jukan,” she whispered, as if the syllables themselves were dear to her.

“So, your family wasn’t nice to you?” Jimin continued.

Sooyun laughed dryly, shaking her head. “My father was a rough alpha, didn’t spare any time for me. My mother taught me how to run a home, didn’t dote upon me until I was being courted. Once Hojun presented himself as a potential mate, I was actually worth something to her. There’s a lot of pride that comes with breeding your blood with the pack alpha’s. Of course, all she could talk about then were how strong my pups were going to be. I was going to have a litter of alphas, she insisted. I was going to care for a respectable family.”

Jimin observed her expression, the downward tilt of her lips, the dullness in her eyes. “You didn’t want that,” he murmured.

Sooyun met his gaze and smiled softly. “Who would? Being mated just to be bred. Living with someone who thinks he owns you, owns the whole damn world. What an insufferable life.”

“But you agreed to it anyway?” Taehyung asked, his hand in Jungkook’s, brows drawn.

“I didn’t have any choice,” Sooyun said simply. “As an omega, I was my practically my father’s property, then my mate’s. I may have wanted to find love, but my parents never gave a shit about my wants. Two courting gifts in, and they already set a date for my mating ceremony.

“I was fifteen and my mother sat me down to tell me what was expected of me. That I should have a pup within a year.” Sooyun’s jaw tightened. “I thought about leaving. The night before the ceremony, I just laid awake and stared outside. I thought I should go north. I’d felt it calling to me, b-but I had no clue where’d I go. I wasn’t allowed outside the central territory. I didn’t know what was out there in those trees.”

Sooyun picked at her nail and sighed. Jimin grasped the glass and took another drink of water, chest aching over what he knew would come next.

“So I mated him. I never knew Hojun to be kind, but for the first few months, it was... tolerable,” she shrugged. “He was gone most of the day, hunting or dealing with pack arrangements. I cleaned and cooked and really just laid around. Then we found out I was pregnant.”

Jimin did the math in his head, knowing his mother was still probably fifteen at this point in the story. Too early for the pup to be him. He felt dread settle in his gut. His hand skimmed over, settling atop Sooyun’s.

“Hojun was so proud. My family was so proud,” she exhaled. “I was terrified, didn’t feel like my body was ready. But everyone was telling me this was a good thing, that I should be happy. Nothing I could do about it, anyway. So I ate well and rested more. I got to about three months.” Her eyes flickered to Taehyung briefly, then to Jimin. “And I miscarried.”

Taehyung wrapped an arm around his stomach and inhaled sharply.

Sooyun was silent for a long moment, worrying her lip. She swallowed the tight sensation gathering in her throat, pressed her other hand against her thigh, curling her fingers.

“They said it was my fault,” she whispered. “I still had blood on my inner thighs and those alpha medics told me it was my fault. That I should be ashamed of my body. That I must have intentionally killed my pup. An omega my age should be perfectly suited to carry a child.”

Sooyun’s gaze flickered to the floor. “That was the first night he hit me.”

Jimin grasped her hand tighter, rage already boiling within him. Just the thought of anyone touching his mother like that had Jimin gritting his teeth, ready to sink his claws into the bastard.

“The funny thing was, I almost thought he loved me. He’d been so pleasant while I was pregnant. But the moment it was over, some sort of beast took his place.

“The hard part is realizing that he was just a product of his environment. I want to be angry, I do. But the pack made him that way. I’d heard stories before I knew him. I heard he was the type of kid to catch butterflies and squish them between his fingers, just ‘cause he could. And no one stopped him. His family, the pack, they wanted a strong alpha. The type of leader with an iron will and a growl that people fear. So they taught him that the world was his.

“It wasn’t my job to fix him, either. I didn’t say anything when he hit me. You need the right type of environment to create someone like that, so I knew speaking up wouldn’t make a damn difference. No one bothered making the change when it mattered, so I had to become a victim of it.”

Sooyun inhaled a shaky breath, trying to mellow herself out. “I told myself for a second time that I should run. But I also wondered if the other packs outside my own would be any different.”

She looked at Jungkook then, a ghost of a smile gracing her lips as she watched him mess with Taehyung’s hair, Taehyung purring as his fingers carded through the smooth strands. “I should’ve known better.”

“What actually pushed you to leave?” Jimin murmured.

“You,” she said simply. She straightened up and took a deep breath to continue. “In a little under a year I was pregnant again. And this one stuck. Hojun was somewhat kind again, but I didn’t trust it this time. I was very careful.

“And things were fine for a matter of years, honestly. I gave birth without trouble, I got to meet my son.” She cupped Jimin’s cheek and Jimin leaned into the touch. “There was no trouble when you were an infant. The whole pack loved you, said you were going to be their strong, beautiful leader one day.”

“Sounds like a conditional love to me,” Hoseok commented.

Sooyun nodded. “Oh, it was. When Jimin got older and started to develop his own personality, things changed. You were a fragile child. You wailed over everything. You were somehow more of a crybaby then than you are now.”

Jimin snorted in dry amusement. “And?”

“And I knew you were an omega. You’ve always been so gentle with the world around you, so compassionate and protective over me. You are an omega through and through. Your father noticed it too,” she said, pausing.

“You were two when I first started to suspect it. So I went to my brother, Jukan, who had become a medic. I asked him to sneak me contraceptives. He was the only wolf who had sympathy for me; he knew what your life would be like as an omega. Knew I couldn’t risk putting any more children through that.”

“You weren’t allowed to control that yourself?”

An incredulous look crossed Sooyun’s face. “Absolutely not. When and if I had pups were on my mate’s terms. So I had to break some rules. A good decision on my part, too. I was not going to willingly give that man any more children. Especially not after—” She stopped, shut her eyes for a moment.

“When you were three, I caught Hojun yelling at you. Yelling at a pup to shut up. Called you a pathetic omega runt. I would have slapped him right there if I wasn’t so terrified of him,” Sooyun said stiffly. “I told myself it would be fine, that I could just keep you away from him as much as possible. As long as he didn’t lay a hand on you, we would be okay.”

Jimin saw Jungkook’s lip curling up as the alpha began to catch on. “Please say he did not hurt his own pup.”

“I think one lesson we’ve learned is that there are very terrible alphas in the world,” Sooyun stated. “He hit my baby. There was one line he could not cross and the bastard fucking crossed it. He had the gall to do it while I was out picking up food. I came home to Jimin sobbing, a glaringly red mark on his cheek. I knew.”

She took a deep breath. “Our pack had trouble with humans, but we were big enough to kill off any real threats rather quickly. Hojun sometimes brought back trinkets from the humans, never anything I was comfortable having around the house, around my child. But the humans were a distraction, one I could make use of.”

Sooyun tapped the table, expression tense and gaze distant. “There was a night that they planned to go on a thorough patrol, clear the territory of any stragglers. I knew most of the pack would be asleep and Hojun would be gone for hours. So I made a plan, and as soon as he left for the night, I packed clothes and furs for the both of us. I knew they would be searching in the east and south, so the north was a good bet for escape.

“We were just about ready to leave when the front door slammed open,” Sooyun said with a grimace. “Apparently they’d encountered a group of humans too close to the homes, and many of the alphas came back to secure our cabins. Hojun caught me, took one look and knew what I was trying to do. He was... h-he was furious, to put it simply.”

Sooyun’s throat constricted. “He started shouting at me, called me an ungrateful bitch and a lot other things I remember less clearly. Started shoving me around, but I was desperate. I fought back. Well, not that I really knew how to. But I finally slapped him like I’d wanted to for years. I got shoved to the ground. Then you came out of the hall. I was so scared in that moment, Jimin. He looked at you, and I felt absolute dread seep into me,” Sooyun said, voice wavering.

“He grabbed your arm and dragged you over, said he’d strangle you if I ever tried to leave again. A-and if we did leave, he’d find us. And he’d kill you, and I’d have nothing.” She quickly raised her hand to wipe at the corners of her eyes, shaking her head when Jimin reached out to touch her, comfort her. “It’s okay, I’m alright.”

Sooyun sniffled and tried to blink through the tears. “There was a... a weapon he kept hanging on the wall close by. The humans called it a shotgun. I was so scared, so angry that he’d even think about harming you. My head was a mess, you were crying, and I just grabbed it. He looked shocked for a second, then he wrapped his hand around your tiny throat. I didn’t know what I was doing, but I aimed and pressed the trigger. He collapsed.”

Sooyun covered her face with her palms for a long moment. A heavy exhale wracked her body. She looked up, eyes rimmed red. “A lot of that moment is a blur, but I do remember Jimin sitting in his blood. He wasn’t even scared, just confused. That confusion turned to shock. But I didn’t think about it, just grabbed him, wrapped in our warmest furs and left. There was no doubt the pack had heard that shot; we needed to get out of that territory as quickly as possible.

“I felt so terrible rushing Jimin out into the night. My original plan gave us time, and I’d have more clothes and furs for Jimin if he was cold. But all those safeties were gone. Jimin was whimpering and all I could do was shush him. I knew I couldn’t turn back. If we were caught, I’d be sentenced to death and Jimin...” Sooyun’s voice broke. “I hate to even think about it, but Jimin would have been stuck in the same position as me. He’d be raised to be some alpha’s mate. Leadership had to remain in the Baek bloodline, so Jimin would be forced to have those pups.

“What I did may have been awful, but please understand that I couldn’t let that happen to you. I wanted you to have control over your own life, to choose what you wanted instead of having everything thrust upon you. And thank whatever deity was watching out for us that we made it here.”

Jimin pulled her into an embrace, saddened, yet grateful for his mother’s sacrifices. “Thank you,” he whispered into his hair, resisting tears himself. “And I’m so sorry.”

“No apologies, Jimin. We were meant to be here. We can just be glad that we made it, that you get to live like this, love who you’re with.” She chuckled wetly. “That I get to do the same.”

Taehyung was wiping at his eyes, the two alphas visibly shaken from the story.

It really had been a miracle that Sooyun managed to get them out, despite the unfortunate circumstances that preceded it. She’d kept them alive through the long journey, pushed herself until they arrived this far north.

Maybe she was right—they were meant to be here. In a pack where Jimin wasn’t limited by his rank. Where he was respected by his alpha peers. Where he could love and be loved in return. Where Jimin could be with someone as wonderful as Yoongi, as long as he chose to.

Sooyun had managed to collect herself while Jimin was lost in thought, her attention focused on her lap where she was absently playing with Jimin’s fingers, short like her own.

“Eomma,” Jimin said quietly. “Can I ask you something else? In private?”

Sooyun looked at him for a second, lips parted in an unspoken question. She nodded.

Jimin cleared his throat. “We’re gonna, uh, step outside,” Jimin said to the other wolves.

Taehyung looked at him worriedly. “Are you okay? Should you be outside? It’s really cold—”

“I’m fine,” Jimin said, mustering a small smile. “It’ll be brief.”

“Oh,” Taehyung murmured. “Okay.”

Sooyun stood first, waiting patiently as Jimin fought with his sore and aching muscles, limping up to her. She slung an arm around his waist, supporting him as they moved to the door. The chill was bitter against Jimin’s skin, wind harsh this evening. The sun was long set, a heavy and dark blue settled overhead.

Jimin and Sooyun leaned into the outer wall, huddled together. Sooyun glanced at him with expectation. “You look troubled.”

“I guess you could say I am,” Jimin replied bluntly.

Sooyun nudged him. “Of course you are. What about in particular, though?”

Jimin inhaled slowly, staring out at the swaying trees as he considered how to phrase his next words. “Do you... see your first mating as a mistake?”

Sooyun bit the inside of her cheek and focused on the sets of tracks in the snow, leading to and from the dining hall. “In a sense, yes. In an ideal world, I would have found Jae first.”

Jimin hummed in agreement.

“But, without Hojun, as terrible as he was, I wouldn’t have you. And no matter how much I love Jae, you were my first love.”

Jimin met her eyes, firm yet kind. “Are you really saying I’m worth all that pain?”

“I’m saying that the good things in life find a way.”

Jimin rubbed at his red nose, feeling no less conflicted. “Eomma,” he began tentatively, “What if I mate Yoongi, and it turns out to be a mistake?”

Sooyun rested her head back against the wall and twined her fingers together. “I think the signs of a bad partner are always there, no matter how much we try to ignore them. I knew Hojun had a past with aggression. I had an idea of the kind of person he was. And you... you know Yoongi. Has there ever been a time when you had a real reason to doubt your relationship?”

Jimin considered it and genuinely came up short. “No.”

“Then I wouldn’t be scared, Jiminie. I know you don’t want to end up like me—”

“Poor wording,” Jimin muttered.

“But that’s the general idea, isn’t it? You want to do things right the first time.”

Jimin paused. “Yeah, I guess so.”

“But if you’ve never had a reason to worry, then don’t worry. You’re giving me that look, like you don’t really believe me. But I would know, Jimin. If Yoongi treats you well, trust him. Trust that you are doing right by yourself with him. If my past experiences are what’s keeping you back, then take my word. You will be alright,” Sooyun said firmly. “You love him, don’t you?”

“Of course,” Jimin murmured.

“And he loves you?”

“Probably too much.”

Sooyun nodded. “Do you want to mate him?”

Emotion welled up within Jimin. He heaved a shuddering breath. “Yes.”

“Then do it,” Sooyun stated. She grasped Jimin’s hands, expression tender as she looked him in the eye. “Love that boy while you can, because you both deserve to be happy. Okay?”

Jimin sniffled. Sooyun wiped at the single tear sliding down his cheek. “Okay,” Jimin breathed.

Sooyun smiled warmly and released his hands, patting his back. “Now let’s go inside—”

“Jimin!”

Jimin snapped toward Hyunjae, eyes widening as he saw her jogging toward them, hair in disarray and blood smattering her shirt. Jimin hunched into himself, suddenly reminded of where that blood came from.

“Yoongi’s stable,” Hyunjae huffed, halting before them. “We gave him some strong meds, so he should be asleep for tonight and then some. But he’s alright.”

Jimin covered his mouth, trying not to cry all over again. “God,” he gasped. “Thank you.”

“Me or a god?”

Sooyun shot her a look. Hyunjae seemed sheepish in turn.

“Can he go lay with Yoongi?” Sooyun asked.

“Well, he doesn’t look great,” Hyunjae said with hesitation.

“I don’t care,” Jimin said quickly. “Please, I just want to be with him. It’s fine. I’ll be fine.”

“Sure,” Hyunjae said slowly, holding out an arm to escort Jimin over. She directed her attention to Sooyun. “You going home?”

“In a bit. I’m going to pop back in with the kids first,” she said, nodding to the dining hall.

“Stop by the infirmary and I’ll walk home with you?” Hyunjae suggested.

Sooyun smiled. “Yup.” She began to turn away, yet paused. “Jae,” she stated. Hyunjae arched a brow. “I love you.”

Hyunjae blinked in surprise. “Love you too, shortie.” She reached out to pinch Sooyun’s cheek. Sooyun ducked out of her reach while Hyunjae snickered.

“Nice try,” Sooyun said. “Later, Jae.”

“Later,” Hyunjae huffed.

Jimin and Hyunjae padded through the snow toward the growing light of the infirmary windows, anticipation burning hot in Jimin’s gut the entire trek. He was anxious to touch Yoongi, to scent him, reassure himself that the alpha’s heart was really beating.

There was a medic yawning up at the front, seated at the desk for the night. They walked past and toward a curtained cot in the back. “Don’t touch his left side,” Hyunjae warned. She pulled open the curtain, and Jimin could finally breathe.

Yoongi was paler than normal, but his lips were parted in his sleep, features lax and comfortable. Jimin could pick up his scent from here; he only wanted to get closer.

Hyunjae rested a hand on Jimin’s shoulder. Jimin’s gaze flickered up to her. There was a solemn expression on her face. She pressed a gentle kiss to the top of Jimin’s head, then released him. “I’ll be back in the morning.”

Jimin nodded, watching quietly as she left.

Jimin wasted no more time in getting to Yoongi. He shrugged off his heaviest fur and crawled onto the bed, snuggling into the alpha’s side. He wrapped himself around Yoongi’s right arm and pressed his nose into the crook of his neck, inhaling deeply.

“Never leaving you again,” he whispered, throat tight. “Never again.”

Jimin tucked himself neatly against Yoongi and purred in contentment, knowing he fit there perfectly. Surrounded by Yoongi’s dewy scent, Jimin fell asleep quickly.

☽○☾

Jimin felt warm. He pressed himself into the body beside him, humming at the rise and fall of the chest beneath his cheek. His legs were tangled with another pair. Jimin inhaled deeply. Yoongi.

Jimin opened his eyes, looking blearily at the calm face beside him. He stared at the curve of Yoongi’s nose, to the pout of his lips. He hugged Yoongi’s arm tighter.

He heard the curtain being pulled back. A growl rose in Jimin’s throat at the disturbance, a sudden wave of protectiveness washing over him. He felt the strong urge to defend his injured mate.

The medic put her hands up in a placating gesture. “I just need to check his bandages,” she said quietly.

The growl died down to a rumble. Jimin tucked himself back against Yoongi’s neck. Jimin watched her through half-lidded eyes, too tired to pay very close attention. He didn’t notice himself drifting off again, only woke with a startle when someone shook his arm.

“Jimin,” Taehyung urged, hovering over him. “I’ve come to get you. You need to eat.”

“M’not hungry,” Jimin grumbled, trying to hide his face against Yoongi.

“Don’t be stubborn. C’mon. I’m sure you’re feeling weak after yesterday.”

“Not gonna leave him.”

“Twenty minutes, that’s all,” Taehyung insisted, forcing Jimin onto his back. Jimin glared at him. Taehyung offered a weak smile. “Please?”

Jimin wrinkled his nose. “Fine. No more than twenty minutes.”

Taehyung grinned. “Of course.”

He helped Jimin untangle himself and roll out of bed, supporting the elder as they passed through the infirmary. The morning air was still, a silence hanging over the snow-laden territory. Even the peace felt ominous now.

Jimin sat quietly amongst their friends while Taehyung fetched him breakfast, then ate when reminded. He only vaguely listened in on their conversations, much more occupied with thoughts of Yoongi. Whether he was still asleep. Whether he was alright.

“Jimin.”

Jimin’s head shot up, eyes meeting Seokjin’s concerned pair. He nudged a new plate even closer to Jimin. Jimin blinked down at it. Pumpkin cookies.

“Oh,” he said.

“I came in early today, figuring if I could get you to eat something...”

“Thanks,” Jimin stated, reaching out slowly to grab one. Chewing was such a laborious process. He had to wait until most of the cookie had cleared his mouth before he could turn back to Taehyung.

“Has it been twenty minutes yet?”

“U-um, I don’t think so.”

Jimin grumbled unintelligibly and grabbed another cookie.

“You sleep alright, Jimin?” Hoseok asked. Taeseob was beside him. Since when had Taeseob been there?

“Yeah,” Jimin replied.

An awkward quiet.

“How’s Yoongi?” Namjoon, now.

“I don’t know,” Jimin sighed. He shoved the remainder of the second cookie into his mouth.

“You look jittery,” Seokjin observed. Jimin wasn’t sure why he was still hanging around.

“I’m anxious.”

“Need some lavender scones?”

“What the fuck is that?”

“I’m just trying to help.”

Jimin puffed out his cheeks. “I want to leave now,” he said firmly. “Will someone walk me back?”

The wolves at their table exchanged hesitant looks. Taehyung groaned in exasperation. “I will, you whiny pup.”

“I could’ve died yesterday,” Jimin mumbled. His sympathy tactic didn’t work on Taehyung, however.

“Uh huh,” the omega said, helping Jimin stand. “What a miracle you didn’t.”

“That sounded like sarcasm.”

“Did it?”

Taehyung dragged him along. Jimin felt his heartrate pick up as they neared the infirmary again, entire body desperate to return to Yoongi’s side. He tried to pick up his pace, only to be chastised by Taehyung and told to “calm the fuck down and be safe.”

Jimin stumbled through the door and the medic at the front perked up. “Oh good, you’re here. He just woke up.”

Jimin stilled. He pulled away from Taehyung and rushed the remaining distance, ignoring his limp. Jimin threw back the curtains, startling Yoongi. Yoongi sat up with a wince, gaze meeting Jimin’s.

Jimin burst into tears. “Yoonie,” he wailed.

Yoongi collected himself and opened his arms as Jimin moved toward the bed, crawling on and gravitating to Yoongi’s side. He wrapped his arms around the alpha’s waist and scented him, tears wetting them both.

“Jimin,” Yoongi groggily addressed, still a bit out of it. “Are you alright? Are you hurt?”

“No,” Jimin assured. “I’m okay. You fuckin’ scared me, though.”

“You were the scared one? I was terrified those humans were gonna take you,” Yoongi huffed. “With your leg, I wasn’t... I wasn’t sure you’d be able to get away.”

“I killed the other one,” Jimin said meekly. “I’m not sure if you saw.”

Yoongi tried to turn to look at him. When Jimin sat up, Yoongi cupped his cheeks. “You’re sure you’re not hurt?”

“Stop fretting,” Jimin sighed. “Worry about yourself. You had a damn hole in your shoulder, Yoon.”

Yoongi shook his head. He brushed his thumb along Jimin’s cheek gently, the omega leaning into his touch. “You know I only care about your safety.”

“I know,” Jimin muttered. “But maybe, just once, care about your own safety as well.”

“I’ll make an attempt,” Yoongi said, smirking at Jimin’s pout.

Taehyung cleared his throat from behind them. Yoongi’s hands fell away and Jimin swiveled around with a scowl. “What?”

“I’ll get him some food and water?” Taehyung suggested sheepishly.

“You had to ruin our moment for that?”

“Well, it didn’t look like you two were gonna stop anytime soon.”

“Thank you, Tae,” Yoongi said pointedly—a cue for him to leave.

Taehyung winked at Jimin and stepped away. Jimin scoffed.

He felt Yoongi’s fingers against the back of his neck, then, tangling up into the hairs at his nape. Jimin’s muscles eased up and he leaned forward, attention returning to Yoongi. Yoongi’s soft gaze met Jimin’s.

“Hi, Minie,” he murmured.

Jimin’s throat clenched up. God, he’d been so close to losing this man. This wonderful, wonderful alpha that was always so gentle with him. Who had so much love to give. Jimin had never felt more relief than in this moment. His lip wobbled.

“It’s okay,” he quietly crooned, drawing Jimin closer.

“You shouldn’t be the one comforting me,” Jimin said brokenly, shutting his eyes as his forehead was pressed to Yoongi’s.

Yoongi only continued to shush him, his other hand resting against Jimin’s hip. Their noses brushed. A pause. Yoongi tilted his head, lips meeting Jimin’s in a ghost of a touch. Jimin wrapped his arms around his neck, careful not to rest any weight on the alpha’s shoulder. He eased into the kiss.

Jimin wanted to live in that moment, revel in the tender kiss, in the warmth of Yoongi’s skin against his.

But Jimin broke away, sucking in a quivering breath. “Yoon,” he whispered.

“Mm?”

Jimin was almost shy, but the words weighed heavy on his tongue, perhaps overdue. Jimin grasped the back of Yoongi’s shirt, fisting the material as he collected himself. They were close enough that all Jimin could scent was Yoongi. He senses were overwhelmed by him—Yoongi, Yoongi, Yoongi. Jimin refused to let go.

“Will you be my mate?”

Yoongi looked at him intently, eyes roving over every detail of Jimin’s face. His eyes widened a fraction. Then he broke into a brilliant smile. “When?”

“That’s the reply you’re gonna give me? After all this time?” Jimin questioned, a hint of surprise and a hint of mirth.

“I’ve been waiting a long while for this, Min. I’ve wanted to be your mate since we were pups. I just wanna know how soon we can make it happen,” Yoongi said warmly, fiddling with the omega’s hair, gazing at Jimin like he was the sun itself.

Jimin gaped for a moment. “My heat. In a couple weeks. W-we could... in a couple weeks.”

Yoongi just smiled wider. “Sounds perfect.”

Chapter Text

Yoongi stayed with Jimin during his recovery. As an unmated alpha who stuck to tradition, he couldn’t allow Jimin to check up on him and care for him in his own home. So for the week following the incident, he slept in Jimin’s room, accompanied Jimin to every meal, and allowed the omega to change his gauze.

Jimin cried the first time he pulled the wrappings back and saw the marred skin, low on Yoongi’s shoulder. He had to pull himself together and disinfect the wound, search for signs of complications in the healing.

Yoongi had to lift his arm for Jimin to wrap his wound back up. When the alpha winced at the painful strain of the motion, Jimin swallowed a lump in his throat, obviously troubled.

“I can get someone else to do this,” Yoongi quietly suggested, taking in Jimin’s discomfort.

Jimin shook his head, hands a bit shaky as he finished the process. “No. You took care of me. I’m gonna do the same.”

“Jimin,” Yoongi sighed. “It’s okay—”

“I’m your mate, aren’t I?” Jimin interrupted, looking up at him. “Let me do this. I hate seeing you in pain, but it’d be worse if I wasn’t the one taking care of you.”

“Alright,” Yoongi said slowly, brushing his fingers through Jimin’s hair.

Yoongi had a tendency to pretend that his injury, and the trauma accompanying it, didn’t affect him. He’d bite the inside of his cheek to hold back a groan when he moved his shoulder. He would brush assistance off and claim he was fine if anyone asked. When wolves offered their sympathies over what had happened to him, Yoongi merely said, “I’m just glad it was me rather than anyone else.”

It pissed Jimin off. Yoongi had all the right to show how much pain he was in. All the right to be upset. Yet Yoongi was the type of person to keep his troubles to himself, as long as it kept others from worrying.

Yoongi was rather good at pretending. But sticking to his side nearly every minute of the day, Jimin saw the cracks in his composure. How he flinched at loud noises, kept a wary eye on doors, rushed them from building to building to remain out of open view. He was obsessively protective over Jimin, concerned about his whereabouts and doting upon his every move despite being the wounded wolf among them.

When Yoongi slept, it was fitfully. One night in particular startled Jimin awake.

He felt a dip in the bed, Yoongi shifting beside him. Jimin then heard Yoongi’s labored breathing, ragged huffs broken by noises of distress. Jimin blinked against the darkness of his room, only a sliver of silver moonlight flooding through the window. Jimin reached out, careful to avoid Yoongi’s injury, and tried shaking him awake.

“Yoon,” Jimin said urgently, voice rough. “Yoongi, wake up.”

Yoongi inhaled a shuddering breath and snapped open his eyes, glancing around blearily.

“Hey,” Jimin gasped. “It’s okay. You’re okay.” He brushed off the hair sticking to Yoongi’s damp forehead and watched him try to rein in his breathing. Jimin’s hand hovered over Yoongi’s heart, beating erratically beneath his fingertips.

Yoongi reached up with a shaking hand and grabbed Jimin’s wrist, holding him in place.

“Nightmare?” Jimin whispered.

Yoongi did not reply. He stared at the ceiling for a long while, grip too tight around Jimin. Jimin shifted closer cautiously, scared to startle Yoongi. He leaned in slowly and pressed a kiss to Yoongi’s cheek, then settled into the crook of his neck, brushing his nose against the alpha’s scent gland. Jimin lightly kissed his neck in hopes of calming him.

He felt Yoongi’s arm suddenly wrapping around his back, pulling Jimin closer. “Wait,” Jimin murmured, “Not too hard. You’ll hurt yourself.”

Yoongi ignored him, only hugging him tighter as he nuzzled against Jimin, chest heaving against the omega’s. Jimin shut his eyes and rubbed Yoongi’s back. Yoongi’s hand skimmed across his hip, then between them, palm flat over Jimin’s stomach.

“Do you want to talk about it?” Jimin asked after a pause. Yoongi’s thumb pressed into the taut muscle of Jimin’s abdomen as he scented the omega. Jimin was a little confused. “Yoon, I’m not pregnant.”

“I know,” Yoongi said hoarsely.

“Was I, i-in your nightmare?”

Yoongi pulled back, far enough that he could meet Jimin’s eyes, his own red-rimmed. Jimin cupped his cheek, stroking his overly warm skin as he waited for Yoongi to find his words.

“I could hear a pup,” Yoongi sighed. “Everything was hazy and dark, and I couldn’t see it, but I knew it was ours. And I needed to find it. I think someone took our pup.”

Jimin pressed his lips to Yoongi’s jaw, then leaned away. “Where was I?”

Yoongi’s expression tensed; he wouldn’t meet Jimin’s eyes. “I’m not sure. But I s-scented blood.” He clutched onto Jimin tighter, buried his nose back against Jimin’s neck. “I just kept running, but the pup’s wailing never got any closer. I was so fucking scared.”

“Oh, Yoonie,” Jimin exhaled. “It’s not real. There’s no pup, I’m alive.”

“I know,” Yoongi mumbled.

“We’re safe now.”

Yoongi was quiet.

☽○☾

“Say ‘ah,’” Taehyung cooed, mimicking the action as he held up a piece of carrot toward Jungkook. Jungkook distractedly complied, otherwise occupied with looking at the map spread out between him and Hoseok.

Jimin wrinkled his nose. “You’re treating him like a baby.”

Taehyung blew on a steaming cube of potato and shrugged. “I’m practicing.”

“On your mate?”

“He doesn’t mind,” Taehyung argued, feeding Jungkook once again. “Sometimes he needs reminders.”

“Y’know, usually that dynamic is the other way around,” Yoongi muttered, shoveling curry-soaked rice into his mouth.

“You don’t feed me,” Jimin commented, squinting at him.

“You get pissed when I try to.”

“Well, maybe I like it sometimes,” Jimin said as he puffed out his cheeks.

“Only when you’re coming up on your heats.”

“That’s what that smell is!” Taehyung exclaimed, palm slapping down on the table. Jimin reeled back. “I forgot your heat was coming up. Must be less than a week now. Totally slipped my mind with everything else going on,” he chuckled to himself.

Yoongi blinked. “Is it really that soon?”

“Mm,” Jimin hummed, searching his plate for meat, knowing how little they had left in their store. With the heavy snow fall during the past week, there had been a reasonable excuse for the hunters to take the time off. “Having second thoughts?”

“About what?” Taehyung cut in, curious.

Jimin frowned in disappointment when all he could find were cubes of vegetables. “We’re mating right before my heat.”

Taehyung gaped. “You didn’t tell me.”

“Must have slipped my mind,” Jimin echoed, glancing up as Taehyung narrowed his eyes at him. “Honestly, though. I’ve been busy taking care of this one.” He pointed to Yoongi, finger pressing into the elder’s cheek as he chewed.

Yoongi swallowed. “I don’t think I require all that much care. You’re much more needy.”

“I thought you liked that,” Jimin said innocently.

“Wait, wait, shut up,” Taehyung interjected. “You guys are actually, seriously mating? Finally?”

“Yes,” Yoongi said bluntly.

“I thought I’d never live to see the day.”

Jimin rolled his eyes. “You act like I made him wait a decade or something.”

“Sorta feels like it,” Yoongi muttered.

“Are you happy or not, pretty alpha boy?” Jimin retorted. “You should be elated that you get all this for the rest of our lives.” He gestured down his body, stopping at his thighs and arching a pointed brow.

Yoongi shoveled in another mouthful, making Jimin wait as he chewed. “Yup,” he eventually stated. “And the attitude that comes with it.”

“Your pups aren’t allowed to play with mine,” Taehyung said decidedly.

Jimin and Yoongi gawked. “What?” Jimin said.

“Why the fuck not?” Yoongi added.

“They’ll be too sarcastic, like their parents,” Taehyung replied.

“Excuse me?” Yoongi uttered. “Our kids will be perfect.”

“Damn right, Yoonie,” Jimin nodded along.

“What are you all arguing about now?” Namjoon asked, stopping in front of their table.

“Nothing important,” Taehyung said, resuming picking at his plate.

Namjoon’s expression of mild amusement faded as his attention zeroed in on the alphas at the back of the table. “No,” he stated loudly, already walking around Taehyung to reach them. “Close that up. No plotting.”

Hoseok glanced up at the pack alpha with surprise. “We weren’t doing anything.” He snatched the map away from Namjoon’s reaching hand.

“Really? Because you’re looking very suspicious right about now.”

“Just looking at routes for the spring,” Jungkook said too quickly. He wasn’t the best liar.

“Like I said, hunting season’s over for the winter. I know you two are up to something and I absolutely do not approve.”

“Technically we wouldn’t be going out as pack hunters,” Hoseok defended.

“Too much snow for any wolf to be out there.”

“Hasn’t snowed in two days. Warmer winds are blowing through. Tomorrow at noon would be perfect—”

“No,” Namjoon cut in, face pinched.

“We’ll go west,” Jungkook tried. “Take two other wolves.”

“Do either of you understand the concept of rejection?”

“We shouldn’t have to cut off our typical season early,” Hoseok said, an edge to his tone.

“You’re going to get yourself hurt, or worse,” Namjoon snapped. “I don’t care if you’re experienced. I don’t care what route you take. Everyone stays here where we can look out for each other. At least until the spring, when the terrain is safer.”

“That’s really it?” Jimin said quietly. “Nothing until February or later?”

“Joon, we’re not properly stocked,” Yoongi reminded, meeting Namjoon’s gaze.

“Oh c’mon, Yoongi. Tell me you understand where I’m coming from.”

Yoongi sighed. “Yeah, I do, and I respect your decision. But you get why they’re fighting it, right? We put the pack before ourselves.”

“Isn’t your whole ideology based in the concept of one blood?” Namjoon said, calmer now. He looked between Hoseok and Jungkook. “I figured you’d be more concerned about your fellow hunters.”

Hoseok snorted. “Concern? You’re really questioning my concern? Like I don’t lose sleep every night wondering what the fuck is going to happen to us.”

Jungkook bit the inside of his cheek, eyes distant. Taehyung grasped his hand. “I know we all feel better when we’re doing something,” Jungkook added.

Jimin stared down at his plate. Jungkook was right.

Namjoon exhaled heavily. “Whatever you think about the decision, you will stay out of the woods. And Yoongi,” he addressed, “I anticipate you’ll make sure of it. Keep your hunters under control.”

Jimin waded in the awkward silence amongst them until Namjoon left. He dug his nail into a crack in the table. “You guys are dumbasses.”

“For wanting to go out and hunt?” Hoseok said incredulously. “Like you wouldn’t do the same—”

“For not keeping that shit private.”

Hoseok paused. “Oh.”

Taehyung cleared his throat as he picked at his food. “That sure ruined the mood.”

Jungkook exchanged anxious glances between Hoseok and Yoongi, expecting something. Yoongi squinted at him. “What?”

“You’re not gonna chew us out?”

“Just... be careful, whatever you do,” Yoongi said tiredly. “If you want to wander out west, at least be smart about it. And don’t get caught, or I’ve gotta take the fall.”

“Yeah, um, I’d prefer if you didn’t go out at all,” Taehyung said.

Hoseok slumped forward and began to fold up the map properly. “I don’t even know anymore.”

“Do you guys ever wonder if we’d have the same problems if we lived somewhere else?” Taehyung suddenly asked, abandoning his food.

“What, if we had like, a different territory?” Jimin questioned, confused.

“Yeah. You think humans are everywhere? Or just here?”

“Eomma said they were down south,” Jimin shrugged.

“What about north?” Jungkook suggested, resting his cheek against a palm.

“Depends on how resilient a human is,” Yoongi offered. “Maybe they’re weaker than us, and that’s why they require weapons to fight.”

“Maybe,” Hoseok echoed, brows drawn. “Hyejin suggested we try to catch one.”

Jimin frowned. “A human?”

“Uh, yeah.”

“Hyejin’s never been the brightest of us,” Yoongi stated.

“Oh, I don’t like that idea,” Taehyung said. “I don’t want one any closer to us and our pups.”

Jungkook blinked as he processed the notion. “Absolutely not. Hyejin’s crazy if she thinks we could—should do that. You don’t lead a damn bear into your own den. Not when you’ve got mates and elders a-and kids in there.”

Taehyung rubbed a soothing hand along his arm.

Hoseok raised his palms in surrender. “Never said I agreed with it.”

Jimin tilted his head, still stuck on that territory topic. “Where would we go?” He asked, drawing the table’s attention. “If we weren’t gonna live here, I mean.”

“I hear there’s lakes in the east,” Hoseok said. “But that’s also where we think the humans are coming from.”

“Kwons in the south,” Taehyung sighed.

“Ocean to the west,” Yoongi stated.

“So... north,” Jimin concluded. “What’s up north?”

“Snow, mountains, bigger bears?” Hoseok suggested.

“No one really knows. Not many packs past us. No major ones, at least,” Yoongi replied. “Doubt the cold terrain would be all that livable.”

“So we’re stuck,” Jimin hummed.

Hoseok tapped the wood idly and offered a dry laugh. “Might as well make the best of it?” The atmosphere’s tone was too grim to garner any real amusement amidst it.

Jimin leaned into the table, shoulders heavy and a mild pout on his lips. He shoved his plate aside. Yoongi pulled it back with a pointed look.

“I’m done,” Jimin said.

“Really? Because you only ate half of it.”

“I only wanted to eat half of it.”

Yoongi arched a brow at him, then gestured to the food. “You know you shouldn’t lose body fat in the winter.”

“Yoon, I’m not gonna lose body fat,” Jimin sighed.

“I’d feel better if you were eating full meals—”

“You’re fretting,” Jimin interrupted with exasperation. “Y’know, that thing you do when I’m close to heat. It’s annoying.”

“You act like I can help it.”

“I mean, if you tried...”

Taehyung exhaled heavily and rolled his eyes. “Bickering.”

They both turned to him. “Oh, like you don’t do it,” Jimin said.

“I hate to interrupt this heartfelt scene, but,” Wheein cut in, stepping up to their table. She whistled at Hoseok, drawing his attention. “Set a route yet?”

Hoseok made a furtive glance at Yoongi.

“Oh,” Wheein stated, catching on. “Got a meeting place, at least?”

“We’re still working it out,” Hoseok admitted.

Wheein shrugged, surveying the table. Yoongi tensed when she moved closer to Jimin. “Is he invited?” Wheein asked, resting her hand on Jimin’s shoulder a moment later.

Yoongi growled, arm wrapping over Jimin’s waist to tug him away from Wheein.

Wheein released her grip and startled back, eyes widening a fraction as Jimin’s scent finally hit her.

“Yoongi,” Jimin sighed, squished up against his side, an inch from being in his lap. “It’s just Wheein.”

“No, sorry. I didn’t realize,” Wheein said, hands up.

Yoongi tucked Jimin’s head under his chin and grasped his hip securely, still eyeing Wheein like a threat. Jimin couldn’t do much about it, not that his instincts would let him pull away. Jimin’s omega side was preening over the protective action.

Jimin merely waved her off. “It’s fine. And uh, what about an invitation?”

“Hoseok was considering taking you with us. If you’re in shape now, I mean,” Wheein replied, exchanging a look with Hoseok.

“We’re probably gonna go out while Jimin’s in heat, at least this first time,” Hoseok said. “So honestly, I forgot to even ask. Maybe next time, Jimin?”

“Maybe,” Jimin replied, swallowing a purr as he felt Yoongi’s lips against his cheek, the alpha’s scent surrounding him. “I might actually listen to the rules this time around.”

“That’s genuinely shocking,” Jungkook said.

“Well, I think I’ve learned my lesson that safety is definitely a factor to be considered,” Jimin quietly replied. He rested his head against Yoongi’s shoulder.

A knowing silence strung the air around them.

Jimin folded up the last of his summer clothes and bent down to lay the stack in a basket. He brushed hair out of his eyes and huffed as he straightened up. “You’re staring. I can feel it.”

“Do you want me to stop?” Yoongi asked, meeting Jimin’s gaze as the omega turned around. He was on Jimin’s bed, propped against the wall and donning an amused expression.

Jimin snorted. “It’s fine. Curious as to why me packing is so entertaining to you.”

“Well, firstly, I don’t have anything better to do than watch you,” Yoongi said bluntly. “But it’s also sating the instinctual part of me that’s overjoyed all your stuff, courting gifts included, are going to my house.”

“Feel the need to puff out your chest?” Jimin joked.

“Sorta, actually,” Yoongi shrugged. “My stupid alpha pride aside, how are you feeling, packing up all your stuff?”

“Good, I think,” Jimin mused, picking up a blanket to fold. The ministrations were barely a distraction, his hands moving on muscle memory. “I’m gonna miss my room, but it’s also not the same now that Tae’s gone. So I guess I’m more excited than anything, knowing I’ll really be living with someone again.”

“You get lonely?”

Jimin pursed his lips. “Not often,” he said quietly. “Anyway, I finally get to see the inside of your cabin, how you’ve decorated it and all that.” A smile bloomed on his lips.

Yoongi smiled in return. “Then I get to move everything around when you nest.”

“Oops,” Jimin said nonchalantly. He dropped the folded blanket onto another basket. “You can’t blame me for my omega instincts, Yoon. Just embrace it.”

“I will,” Yoongi murmured, endearment evident in his tone. “Did you pick a hanbok you like when you went out with Tae today?”

“Yes!” Jimin gasped excitedly. “The seamstress tried to dissuade me from the color, said as an omega I should pick something brighter.” Jimin rolled his eyes. “Of course I stuck to what I wanted.”

“Good,” Yoongi hummed. He held out an arm, beckoning Jimin over. “I’m glad. Can’t wait to see it.”

Jimin walked over and settled beside Yoongi, mattress dipping under his weight. He cuddled into Yoongi’s uninjured side and rested his head on his shoulder. The wound had healed up quite a lot, but Jimin was still cautious around it, even if Yoongi claimed he could move the muscles without much ache. “Three days,” Jimin murmured.

Yoongi brushed a gentle hand over Jimin’s forehead. “Feeling overheated yet?”

“Not really. There still isn’t much discomfort.” Jimin shifted around and Yoongi’s arm wrapped around his back, palm resting against his waist. “That empty feeling is starting up, though.”

“Sorry,” Yoongi murmured, kissing his forehead.

“You’d think I’d be used to how awful it can get by now, considering how frequent heats are. I’m a little jealous Tae gets to skip at least three of them,” Jimin grumbled.

“Sure, but at a price,” Yoongi chuckled. “What do you think is worse, struggling through three heats, only a few days at a time, or growing a whole person inside you for nine months straight?”

“Dunno. Never tried the second option,” Jimin replied. “I’ll get back to you when I have a better idea.”

Yoongi shook his head and rested it atop Jimin’s. Jimin grasped Yoongi’s hand and fiddled with his fingers, tired gaze wandering as he took in his bedroom. Half of his belongings were already cleared out, taken to Yoongi’s cabin by Hyunjae and Sooyun. Well, it would be their cabin soon, Jimin noted. A collective home that would hopefully be permanent.

Clearing out his things was bittersweet, just as Taehyung had described before his own mating ceremony. There were too many fond memories in here to count.

Jimin could recall his nervousness upon first moving in, how he’d clung to his mother even after he was fully unpacked. She assured him the trip between the dorm and home was only under ten minutes, that Jimin could come back if he needed a break. Jimin was anxious over the thought of being away from her; his mother was his anchor.

The first few months had been a bit lonely. The loud omega next door soon mated and moved out, and Jimin had never felt more alone. At least until Taehyung presented and promptly took up that same room, excited to be out of his parents’ house.

After that, it was night upon night smuggling alcohol from the kitchens, hiding them in discrete nooks to evade Seokjin’s random searches of their rooms. They’d get tipsy and giggly around midnight, when the rest of the dorm had fallen silent. Taehyung’s favorite late night activity was opening a window, no matter the outside weather, and shouting at the alphas trying to sneak to the rooms of omegas they were courting. Taehyung startled many of the skulking visitors, laughing as the alphas yelped in surprise and mild terror.

Jimin found himself staring at a crack in the wall that had surely not been there when he moved in. The first time Jungkook tried to be one of those late night visitors, he’d gotten the room wrong, stopping one door short and stepping into Jimin’s by accident. Jimin, half awake and way too on edge, crept through the darkness of his room and slammed the intruder into the wall as soon as a figure stepped through the entryway. Of course, they had a good laugh over it later once the nights were on and they could take in the full brunt of the damage.

Then there was the time he and Taehyung had set fire to Jimin’s coat to see how well fox fur burned. They weren’t exactly sober for that experiment, and in hindsight, they really should have taken it outside. At least that mishap didn’t leave behind much evidence. Just the lasting scent of smoke on Jimin’s sheets and a suspiciously gray stain on the ceiling.

Looking back, Jimin was so grateful they’d both presented as omegas, that they had been allowed the opportunity to truly grow up together.

Now it was time to be adults, though—and what an odd concept that was for Jimin to attempt to wrap his head around. Taehyung would be a parent soon, and Jimin a mate. Finally, Jimin had to say goodbye to this room and prepare himself to fuck up a whole new home, but with a different partner this time around.

Jimin smiled softly and wrapped his fingers around one of Yoongi’s longer digits, only imagining how many more memories they could create in their years to follow. Jimin felt like, in a way, he’d been given a second chance with Yoongi after the panic with the humans. There had been a moment when Jimin had genuinely thought he was going to lose Yoongi. But their time wasn’t up. Jimin hoped they could make the most of it.

Yoongi nuzzled into Jimin, nosing along his cheek and down to his jaw, breathing even and demeanor calm. “You smell really good,” he said abruptly.

Jimin’s smile widened. “Obviously. It’s an evolutionary effect, leads to reproduction and all that.”

Yoongi grumbled low in his chest and held Jimin tighter. “Mm. I’d like it better if you smelled like me.”

“So other alphas wouldn’t find my scent just as enticing as you do?” Jimin teased.

“There you go,” Yoongi agreed.

Jimin rolled his eyes. “You can wait a few more days. Then we’ll smell like each other permanently. How freaky is that?”

“Sounds great to me,” Yoongi said quietly, a contrast to Jimin’s joking tone. Jimin blinked up at him. “I like your scent, Minie. Wouldn’t mind carrying it around too, letting everyone know who my heart belongs to.”

Jimin held a hand over his own heart. “What the fuck, Yoon. That’s so sweet.”

Yoongi observed Jimin, perhaps expecting a reply. Jimin hesitated. Yoongi pinched his cheek and Jimin squirmed, huffing as he met Yoongi’s eyes.

“Jiminie,” he murmured. “Is mating really what you want?”

Jimin parted his lips, surprised. “Yes,” he said swiftly.

“Clearly this is something I’ve always wanted, but you’ve been cautious about it for so long. Now you still seem hesitant,” Yoongi explained, a slight downturn to his lips.

“Yeah, I was cautious. But I’ve changed my mind. Talking to Eomma, a-and almost losing you... I’ve learned that you can’t just wait and hope for the best. If I want to be with you, really, truly, I need to just do it. So maybe I’m still adjusting to the idea of being mated in itself, but as long as it’s with you—” Jimin stopped, biting the inside of his cheek. “I don’t like making decisions I can’t back out of. But it’s you, Yoon. And you will never be a mistake.”

Taken aback, Yoongi merely stared at Jimin. He sucked in a breath, then leaned forward and kissed Jimin chastely. “If you’re positive—”

“I am,” Jimin said with resolve. “Trust me.” He held Yoongi’s hand between two of his own and sat up with determination. “I can give you my oaths right now, if you want.”

Yoongi grinned in endearment. “You’ve already written them?”

“Memorized ‘em, too,” Jimin nodded excitedly. “What else do I have to do, being stuck inside all day?”

Yoongi chuckled and fell forward until his forehead was resting against Jimin’s, their noses brushing. “I love you,” he sighed. “But it’s alright; I think I’d rather wait to hear them the night of.”

“What about you?” Jimin prompted. “Got your oaths down?”

“Hm, that’s a secret.”

“What for?” Jimin snickered, breaking away to look at him incredulously.

Yoongi just smiled and reached out, grasping Jimin’s hip. He began to tickle the omega. There was a single moment Jimin was allowed to express his betrayal before his face split into a grin with breathless laughter. He bent forward, trying to escape Yoongi’s grasp, yet to no avail.

He squirmed further onto the mattress, only to be pulled back, falling against Yoongi’s chest as he curled into himself. Jimin gasped, trying to pry Yoongi’s hands away.

Yoongi let up, his own breathing labored as he held Jimin. Jimin’s cheeks were hot, skin warm and flushed from more than just the pre-heat. “Bastard,” Jimin managed to utter.

Yoongi chuckled. “You let your guard down.”

Jimin slumped forward, arms pressed over Yoongi’s wrapped around him. “Well played, Min.”

Yoongi pressed a kiss to his temple. “Thanks.”

☽○☾

“Whose stupid idea was it to have mating ceremonies right before heats?” Jimin grumbled, shifting around in a vain attempt to ease the discomfort within his abdomen.

“You’ll feel better if you eat something,” Sooyun berated, grabbing Jimin’s shoulders and forcing him still before she could continue working on his makeup.

Jimin was cross-legged on too thin a cushion in Namjoon’s office. Wolves were already gathering outside the building, settling in to witness his ceremony. It had been a long day for Jimin, waking in his bed for the last time, sending off the rest of his belongings to Yoongi’s cabin. His pre-heat symptoms had only increased in strength the longer he was awake. Jimin couldn’t let go of Yoongi all morning. Yoongi had to shush and reassure him that it’d only be a matter of hours, Jimin would be fine, when they had to part.

Now it was evening and all Jimin wanted was to be curled into a pile of furs, Yoongi holding him close.

“The food Jin brought you is still warm,” Taehyung encouraged from Sooyun’s side. He dabbed at a thick spot of rouge on Jimin’s cheek. “I can go grab the plate.”

“Not hungry,” Jimin huffed, stomach coiled in knots. He hadn’t managed to eat much all day.

“Jimin, don’t be stubborn. Your scent is smothering; your heat’s due very soon. You need to give your body something to work with, otherwise you’re going to feel even worse,” Sooyun argued, stepping away to admire her handiwork. “Such a nice face, if you’d just stop frowning.”

Jimin pursed his lips. “I want Yoongi.”

“You’ll see him soon,” Sooyun assured.

Jimin shook his head. “I wanna see him now,” he whined. “I don’t like being away this long. I think I’d feel a little better if he was here.”

“It’s against tradition,” Sooyun sighed. “Don’t you want him to see how pretty you are once you’re out there and the ceremony’s started?”

“Don’t care. I want Yoonie,” Jimin protested, brows drawn.

“He might be down the hall with Joon,” Taehyung said slowly. “I could go get him?”

“No,” Sooyun quickly answered before Jimin could. “We won’t be able to pry you off him, then.”

“Did I not emphasize how much I don’t care?” Jimin enunciated. He waited a moment, assessing his mother’s stiff expression. Jimin put on his pup eyes and pouted his lower lip. “Eomma, please. Your son is in pain.”

Sooyun cupped his cheeks, lips tilted down. “I just want this to be a special moment for you, looking back.”

“And I want to not feel shitty in the moment.”

Sooyun exhaled slowly, then bent down to kiss his forehead. “Tae, sweetie, can you go get him?” She asked quietly, turning to Taehyung.

Taehyung hesitated before nodding, rushing to the door.

“Do you promise to eat something if Yoongi’s here?”

“Yes,” Jimin said quickly, a whine building in his throat at the thought of being in his alpha’s arms again. He shifted in his seat, clutching at the fabric of his skirt, unclenching, repeat as he impatiently waited.

“Don’t mess up any of this, by the way,” Sooyun reminded, gesturing to Jimin’s face. “Eomma put a lot of work into your special look for this evening. Of course, my baby is already the prettiest omega in the pack.”

“Eomma, I’m too anxious to even groan at that.”

“Good. I can say it without consequence, then.” Sooyun gasped rather dramatically. “Oh, just imagine how attractive your pups will be. And with Yoonie’s genetics, too... I’ll have to show them off to everyone.”

“Uh huh,” Jimin said, trying to peer around her at the empty doorway. “Shouldn’t he be here by now?”

“Maybe they’re chatting,” Sooyun suggested.

Discomfort clamped tight at Jimin’s abdomen. “I’ll just go to him.”

“No,” Sooyun held out a finger. “You can wait—”

“Jimin?”

“Yoonie,” Jimin breathed, shooting up, light-headed over the sudden movement. Sooyun stepped aside so Jimin could see him, meet his eyes. Yoongi’s jaw fell slack as he took Jimin in, from the subtle kohl around his eyes to his hanbok, silver and threaded with an icy pattern at the hem.

“Oh,” Yoongi uttered, frozen as he stared at Jimin in awe.

Jimin stepped forward on unsteady legs. Yoongi opened his arms and moved to reach him, enveloped by Jimin’s overwhelming scent. Jimin nearly collapsed against his chest, the gnawing urge to be touched finally sated.

“You’re so warm,” Yoongi whispered with concern, lightly brushing his knuckles against Jimin’s flushed cheek. “How do you feel?”

“Bad,” Jimin mumbled, clutching at Yoongi, scared to let go. “I’m jittery and hot and everything just feels wrong.” He nuzzled into Yoongi’s neck, inhaling deeply as Yoongi rubbed soothingly at his back. “Feels better with you, though.”

“He’s too weak. He needs to eat something,” Sooyun cut in, drawing Yoongi’s attention. “He won’t listen to me when I tell him to.”

“Jimin—”

Jimin shushed him, reaching up a finger to press to Yoongi’s lips. “Focus on cuddling me.”

Yoongi grasped Jimin’s arms, unwrapping them from himself. “No, no, no,” Jimin plead, whining as he was pushed back a step.

“You’re fine. We’re just gonna sit down,” Yoongi assured, bodily leading Jimin to the cushions laid out on the floor. Jimin held onto his arm, chest tight with waning panic. Yoongi helped him sit before he lowered himself to the ground. Jimin crawled into his lap.

“Don’t wanna eat, Yoon. It hurts,” Jimin said as Sooyun brought a plate over.

Yoongi grasped the back of his neck, urging Jimin to look at him. “You can do it, Minie. You’re gonna eat something, we’re gonna do the ceremony. Then we get to go home. You can put on your comfiest clothes and cocoon yourself in bed, and I’ll be with you the whole time. Doesn’t that sound nice?”

Jimin worried his lower lip, yet nodded. He already felt somewhat better, wrapped up in Yoongi’s scent, the alpha’s arm skimming along his back, palm cupping his cheek. His heartbeat had slowed to a more normal rate, stomach loosening up.

Jimin took the offered plate with hesitation. He tucked himself under Yoongi’s chin, eating very slowly while Sooyun watched on from the other side of the room, quietly talking with Taehyung. Yoongi continuously rubbed Jimin’s arm, encouraging Jimin as he ate.

“You look very pretty, Yoonie,” Jimin mumbled, pausing to pinch at the black fabric of Yoongi’s hanbok. It coincidentally complemented Jimin’s, sleeves and hems lined with silver thread. Jimin glanced up to meet Yoongi’s curious eyes. Jimin touched Yoongi’s red lips. “Did you put on rouge?”

“Mm. Tae came in earlier and insisted I wear it.”

“I like it,” Jimin replied, watching Yoongi’s expression soften. “You’ve already got such nice lips, and it just... it draws attention.”

“I don’t think I’ll be drawing any attention with you next to me tonight,” Yoongi chuckled, gaze roving over Jimin’s face.

The smooth compliment had Jimin unusually bashful. He covered his hand with his sleeve, holding it over his face as he blushed harder. “Wasn’t me. Was Eomma,” Jimin muttered.

“What? The makeup? Or your lovely face in general?”

Jimin huffed and leaned back into Yoongi’s chest where the alpha couldn’t see him. Yoongi’s hand found Jimin’s as his chest shook with mirth, threading their fingers together and resting them in his lap. He kissed Jimin’s head. “I love you more than words can describe.”

Jimin nuzzled into him and purred, the remaining food left forgotten.

The office door opened then, Namjoon peeking his head inside. “The moon’s out in full. We should probably get started now. Everyone’s already set up outside.”

“Alright,” Yoongi replied. “You guys can go ahead. We’ll be out in a minute.”

“You don’t want to split up and be escorted by family?” Sooyun asked.

“We don’t care too much about tradition,” Yoongi said simply. “Thanks, though.”

Taehyung exchanged a look with Sooyun and shrugged. “Hang in there, Jiminie. Doing the oaths isn’t as scary as it seems.”

“It’s going to be okay, baby boy. You’re going to do great,” Sooyun added, hesitance in her expression as she moved toward the door. “Love you both, so much.”

Yoongi smiled in return, and the two stepped out.

Yoongi waited a moment once they were alone, allowing Jimin the time to merely breathe. Jimin’s hold on Yoongi had slackened as the tension in his body eased up. His head finally felt clearer, body no longer a mess of nerves.

“Are you ready?” Yoongi murmured.

“I think so,” Jimin sighed, reluctantly pulling away from Yoongi’s chest. “I can probably survive for a half hour or so.”

“Good,” Yoongi said, already unwrapping himself from Jimin.

Jimin felt the loss like a physical weight settling within him. He shifted off of Yoongi’s lap, waiting for the elder to stand first. Yoongi held out a hand, tugging Jimin to his feet and back to his side. Jimin linked their arms, a whole new anxiety buzzing within his arteries.

They took their time exiting the room, moving down the hall to the building’s main door. They could hear idle chatter through the wood, witnesses conversing the wait away. Yoongi paused by the door and look at Jimin, gauging his current state.

Jimin inhaled and squared his shoulders, like a hunter heading into battle. “Okay.”

They stepped out to meet a circle of welcoming gazes and giddy gasps as the wolves took the couple in—Jimin, for the most part. The moon was bright overhead, glow catching on the threads of silver sewn through their hanboks, the pair practically glimmering amidst the shadow of the evening.

Namjoon was already standing in the center, the spot cleared of snow, grass beneath still wet and downtrodden. Luckily, their hanboks were built to be thick. “Looks like they’ve already given themselves to each other,” Namjoon joked, referencing their interlocked arms. It was the pack alpha’s duty to hand the pair to each other, expressing his, and the elders’, permission and approval toward the couple.

A wave of mild chuckles rippled throughout the audience. Jimin held back his own embarrassed smile while Yoongi guided them into the circle, surrounded by flickering candles.

Jimin’s gaze caught Dasung’s briefly. Her expression was rather neutral, until she noticed she had garnered Jimin’s attention. A small smile dawned on her; a subtle sign of encouragement.

Jimin and Yoongi detached from each other once they were in the center. Namjoon held his palms up. Yoongi placed his hand on Namjoon’s first, turning to face Jimin fully. Jimin followed a second after.

Namjoon cleared his throat. “Tonight, we bring two of our pack members together—two hunters.” He lifted Yoongi’s hand up an inch. “Min Yoongi,” then Jimin’s, “And Park Jimin. Both very honorable and selfless wolves, who have wonderfully found companionship in each other.”

Jimin heard his mother squeal in excitement not far off. He resisted rolling his eyes.

Namjoon placed Jimin’s hand in Yoongi’s, the warmth of his alpha’s skin flooding through him like a familiar comfort. “It’s really cold out here, so I won’t draw this out any longer. Under witness of the moon, the couple will now make their oaths. You can be seated.”

Namjoon stepped away and retreated out of the circle as the pair settled in. Jimin’s heart thumped wildly beneath his ribs. Yoongi squeezed Jimin’s hand, drawing his attention. He offered Jimin a soft smile.

“Is it alright if I go first, Min?” Yoongi asked calmly, relaying no trace of nervousness he may have been feeling.

Jimin nodded and scooted closer until their knees were touching. He smoothed out his skirt and Yoongi rested their linked hands between them.

“Great. So, for everyone who’s familiar with us, you know Jimin and I have been inseparable since we were pups,” Yoongi began. “I saw him the first night he and Sooyun stumbled into our territory, and I just locked onto him. Still can’t explain to you why.

“But I do know why I stuck to him from then on. Jimin was the type of kid to catch frogs and take the time to return them to the lakebed. He was gentle when picking up bugs and birds and whatnot. Wouldn’t let the other pups squish worms after it’d rained.”

Jimin bit his lip and snickered, remembering the offended faces of the other boys when he had rescued more than one handful of worms from a possibly gruesome demise. Even if Yoongi hadn’t cared all that much about the worms, he backed Jimin up every time.

“Once Jimin was old enough to wrap his head around the concept of death, he went up to my father after a hunt one day. Appa had this limp rabbit still in his grasp and Jimin looked up at him with those huge, innocent eyes and asked if it had died quickly. If Appa had made it as painless as possible.”

Yoongi swallowed the tight sensation in his throat, emotional when he thought too much about his parents. “Appa told him yes. Of course he did it quickly, treated the animal with respect. To this day, Jimin understands that respectfulness can accompany necessity. He teaches this to our younger hunters, to the pack pups that love him so much. Jimin knows sacrifice, but more importantly, he knows compassion. I think that’s the trait I love most about him, admire most about him as a partner and a fellow hunter.

“You could say Jimin shaped my past. He was a constant in my childhood. When my parents passed, Jimin didn’t give me looks of pity. Didn’t distance himself like a lot of others did, just because he wasn’t sure how to act around me after the fact. He only showed me warmth and kindness. When I lost my home, he gave me a new one in himself.”

Jimin inhaled a shaky breath and tried to blink away the moisture gathering in his eyes. He shifted their hands, turning Yoongi’s palm up as he began to rub his thumb against the calloused skin.

“I swear, Jimin, there is no wolf like you. No other wolf I could even imagine being with. You are strong and caring. You’re passionate, maybe too much at times. My life with you is exciting and terrifying and... complete. You bring out all the best parts of me, show me how amazing it is to be loved wholeheartedly. You’ve shown me over and over again how to love in return.

“Not everyone stays with you through the span of your life, but you have. You’re my past, my present. I am so happy you want to be my future, too. I think about what we are, what we could be. How well we work together. Things have been very scary, but you keep fighting. You make me believe that life is always worth fighting for.”

Jimin brushed away a stray tear, then reached out to collect the tears catching on Yoongi’s lashes. Yoongi grasped Jimin’s hand before he could pull away, pressing a light kiss to his skin.

“I swear I will do everything I can to make you as happy as you’ve made me. You are my future, Park Jimin. My—my everything, really. I will continue to treat you as an equal and protect you, always. I promise to respect you, listen to you, and support you. You deserve a love as warm and steadfast as you have offered me.” Yoongi took a breath, meeting Jimin’s eyes with sincerity. “I love you so very much, Minie.”

“Yoongi,” Jimin mumbled. “We can’t be crying already.”

Yoongi laughed wetly and shook his head. “Sorry. The heat’s getting to both of us.”

“Let’s get through this, then,” Jimin said, trying to gather his thoughts. “Forewarning, my hormones are messing with everything, and I may not say all I want to, in the way I want to.”

“It’s alright. You’re perfect no matter the circumstance,” Yoongi assured with a teasing grin.

“My god,” Jimin snickered. “How long have you been sitting on that line?”

“They just come to me,” Yoongi said innocently.

Jimin was smiling too wide; it was starting to hurt his cheeks. “Well, it’s easy to admit I’m a mess in general,” Jimin said, hearing Hoseok’s snort and chuckle two rows back. “But you take me with all my flaws, don’t you? Even when I’m tired or stubborn, or flat-out difficult to deal with. You treat me with patience and take it in stride.”

Jimin glanced down at their twined fingers. “I’ve always thought you made the perfect hunter, Yoongi,” Jimin said quietly. “You’re very level-headed and critical. You lead well, and you work well. You’re diligent and loyal. You know how to uphold command... and still treat people with kindness and care. You look out for the safety of others, and I feel safe with you.” Jimin nodded to himself resolutely.

“While I’m this crazy whirlwind of a person, you’re the anchor I come back to. When I’m lost, you find me. Really. I started out here with no one but my mother. But you gave me the attention no one else would, made me feel like I belong. No matter how much we’ve been fighting, or how bad things are going in your life, you’re quick to care for me, to hold me steady when no one else can.

“I know, technically, no one truly needs a partner. But there are times when I really think you’re a necessity in my life. You keep me from doing dumb shit, or at the very least, you tag along so we can do it together. Like when I wanted to go swimming in January, and couldn’t be convinced to not fucking do it, so you just brought along an actual basket of furs to warm me up with after.” Yoongi shook his head, yet muffled a laugh anyway. “I don’t know how to phrase it any better than this, Yoon, but... that’s just the kind of person you are.”

Jimin paused, exhaled slowly, and shut his eyes. “I think you underestimate yourself, how much you’ve impacted me, how much you mean to me. Without you, I would be in constant chaos. Without you, I wouldn’t know what a genuinely good alpha looks like. Without you, I... Well, I wouldn’t want to be around without you, to be honest.”

Jimin’s lashes fluttered open, wet and surely smearing  his makeup. “It’s hard to describe a relationship that feels so natural, so right. It’s inexplicable, isn’t it? No matter how much we bicker, we just fit together. I was confused when Eomma used to talk about that feeling, about knowing ‘the one.’ But I’ve learned that it’s not some sort of realization you have. It’s this feeling that builds up slowly, that sits inside you and keeps you warm. Until one day, you look at that someone, and everything simply clicks, like two halves of a whole snapping right into place.

“I want us to always be like that. I want to spend years and years more bickering with you, hunting, living, loving with you. And I promise to treat you well throughout. Swear to give you the respect you deserve, cherish all these extra chances we’ve been given by whatever deity is looking out for us. I swear to love you the way you love me, Yoongi. With no reserve, with a gentle touch, and every ounce of my heart. Because we both know how fucking much I love you too.”

There was a mere second of silence, Yoongi’s open gaze steadied on Jimin. His fingers curled over the curve of Jimin’s hip, then he tugged the omega closer and kissed him. Jimin shut his eyes tight, a final tear falling loose, and he cupped Yoongi’s cheek. Despite the cold creeping through his numb limbs, and the ache growing within his belly, Jimin would be happy to live in this moment forever.

He vaguely heard Namjoon’s voice over a wave of cheers; “Under witness of the pack and moon, I get to finally pronounce these wolves mates!”

They parted breathless, Jimin’s forehead rested against Yoongi’s for a short while longer as well wishes were being thrown their way.

“Yoon,” Jimin whispered, still swept up in their own small world. “Let’s go home.”

Yoongi pulled back, held Jimin’s hand tighter, and the rest was a blur. They bid the pack goodbye. Jimin swiftly hugged his parents, aware he wouldn’t see them for days on end. Perhaps longer than a week.

Then they were leaving the gathering, bitter wind barely a nuisance amidst Jimin’s elated giggles while he fell into Yoongi. Yoongi chuckled as Jimin stumbled through the thick snow, the latter constantly hiking up his skirt until they made it to Yoongi’s cabin—their cabin.

Yoongi helped Jimin up the few steps and paused by the door. “Huh, I hope I remembered to clean.”

Jimin lightly slapped him. “C’mon, let me see. I’ve waited long enough.”

“You forgot to mention your impatience in that fantastic oath of yours,” Yoongi joked, only snickering when Jimin frowned at him dramatically. “Want me to carry you in? I’ve heard some omegas like that.”

“Don’t get too ambitious. You might break your back.”

Yoongi rolled his eyes. Then he bent down swiftly, arms positioned beneath Jimin’s knees, and promptly scooped him up. Jimin yelped. He gawked and clung to Yoongi’s shoulders.

“A warning would be great.”

Yoongi merely took the opportunity to nuzzle into Jimin’s hair.

“Okay, show me now,” Jimin reminded, already reaching for the handle. He turned it and shoved the door open a couple inches. Yoongi shouldered it open the rest of the way.

He stepped past the threshold as Jimin began to take the scene in. Yoongi shut the door behind them with a resolute click and carefully set Jimin back on his feet, fingers twining with the omega’s as he awaited Jimin’s reaction.

Jimin’s lips parted in awe. The living room was covered in different vibrantly colored furs, multiple rugs laid out and blankets tossed over sofas and chairs. It resembled the Mins’ home. Jimin took his first step forward, then another, until he slipped out of Yoongi’s grasp.

Yoongi held back patiently, letting Jimin take his time as he explored the new environment.

Jimin’s fingertips skimmed over the orange-brown fur on the longest sofa. His gaze caught on the wood of the armrest, soon noticing that it matched the rest of the furniture spread throughout. “This is the same wood in my parents’ house.”

“Mm. You said you like the color of it. And I figured you’d like some stuff resembling your home,” Yoongi explained. “Want you to feel comfortable here.”

Jimin continued forward, gravitating toward a bowl on a side table. There were glimmering, multicolored sea stones inside. The precise ones Jimin had given to Yoongi over the years, during and after every one of their trips to the beach.

Jimin turned toward the large fireplace, stepping onto the rug beneath it. He looked down, then held a palm over his mouth to muffle a gasp. “It’s the rug,” Jimin whispered. He knelt down to touch it, black fur still clean and smooth.

“Yeah, I... there was no way I could get rid of it,” Yoongi said, aware of how much time they’d spent lounging out on the rug as pups during the winters. “There’s a few more of my parents’ things scattered around. Only the important stuff, though. Wanted to make this our house more than anything, y’know?”

Jimin nodded, slowly standing up again.

“I like the finish on these walls,” Jimin murmured, advancing toward the single hallway. He halted, only briefly noting the kitchen. “It’s big,” he observed. “You cook much?”

“Not as much as I should. But the space is large enough that we could cook together?”

Jimin smiled. “I’d enjoy that.”

Jimin continued on, faced with a decision to turn in to the room on the left or the right. He puffed out his cheeks, mulling in indecision, and felt Yoongi hovering behind him. Jimin turned left.

The room was darker than the rest of the house, moonlight slipping past a slit in the drapes. There were boxes and baskets stacked against one whole wall, and a rocking chair by the window.

“I’ve been using this as a storage room for a while. I’ll have to clear this stuff out,” Yoongi said, a bit sheepishly.

Jimin pointed to the rocking chair, a flicker within his chest. He already had an idea of what it was. “And that?”

“Built it not long ago. Figured this could be a bedroom for pups, and my eomma had a chair like that, for when she was pregnant a-and when I was really young.”

“So it’s mine,” Jimin whispered reverently, stepping forward. He skimmed his fingers along the smooth arm, then pushed it back to watch it rock.

“Yeah,” Yoongi said just as quietly. “It’s yours.”

Jimin felt an intense warmth blooming within his chest, an unshakable hope for what could be. He could picture this room as a proper nursery, spring sunlight filtering through the glass. He could see himself relaxed into the rocking chair, cradling a pup.

Jimin wrapped his arms around his midsection, wondering if this wave of emotion was merely the oncoming heat, or something more. He exhaled. “Can I see the bedroom now?”

“Of course,” Yoongi replied, catching Jimin’s distant look. “Is this okay? Is it too much—”

Jimin shook his head. “It’s perfect, Yoon,” he murmured.

“Good,” Yoongi nodded to himself. “That’s good.”

They walked across the hall and stepped into a candlelit room, large bed taking up the center of the space. There were two dressers against the wall. Yoongi motioned to the one closest to them. “We put your clothes in there, and most of your furs in the chest at the end of the bed.”

Although the entire house smelled heavily of Yoongi, the scent was especially strong in this room. Jimin felt at ease surrounded by it, urged to step in further, drawn to the bed. There were quite a few blankets laid out over the bed. Jimin pushed his palm flat into the mattress, feeling it sink beneath the pressure. It felt rather comfy.

Jimin stopped at the head of the bed and reached out for a pillow. He pulled it to his chest and buried his nose against it, inhaling Yoongi’s scent. Jimin’s limbs went weak, feeling safe and calm in here. Jimin sat down on the bed and promptly slumped over on his side, laying out and curling into the pillow.

“How do you feel?” Yoongi asked, running his palm along the curve of Jimin’s waist.

“I love it, Yoonie,” Jimin mumbled. “Everything.”

Yoongi sighed in relief. “I’m glad.” Yoongi sat beside him, mattress dipping.

It was quiet here, no chatter from neighboring rooms or pattering footsteps moving to and from the bathroom. Just the silence of the house and the even breathing of Jimin’s mate.

“Why don’t you get changed and ready for bed? I’m sure you’re very tired,” Yoongi suggested, patting his hip.

“Okay,” Jimin said, yet made no effort to move.

Yoongi huffed. “I’ll tickle you.”

“Fine,” Jimin whined, reluctantly pushing himself up into a sitting position.

“I’m gonna go latch the door and get you a wet cloth for your makeup, alright?” Yoongi said, standing from the bed.

Jimin made a noise of affirmation and forced himself to his feet, trudging toward the dresser. He dressed quickly, working off muscle memory as he listened to Yoongi moving around the house, tap running briefly before he walked back down the hall. Jimin was already seated at the edge of the bed by the time he returned.

Jimin accepted the wet cloth gratefully, wiping off the residue of their night from his face. Yoongi brushed Jimin’s hair back once he was done, observing the omega with a fond expression.

“I guess I should brew you the tea tonight. Your temperature’s pretty high, so I’ll bet your heat will break during the morning, or maybe even before.”

“Tea?” Jimin echoed, groggy brain taking a moment to catch up. He paused when he realized, an odd twinge in his chest at the notion. Contraceptives, right. Jimin worried his lip as Yoongi continued to brush though his hair.

“Trust me, you’re not gonna want to take it once you’re actually in heat.”

Jimin nodded, hesitant to voice what was on his mind. “I know,” he mumbled. “But, um...”

Yoongi waited patiently for Jimin to find his words. “What is it, Minie?”

“What if we don’t u-use contraceptives this time?”

Yoongi’s ministrations slowed. “Is this the heat talking or Jimin?”

“I’m not in heat yet,” Jimin said, curling into himself a little. “So, i-it’s Jimin.”

Yoongi exhaled slowly as Jimin’s confession sank in. “Then, I wouldn’t mind that,” he calmly replied.

Jimin’s eyes widened a fraction; he looked up at Yoongi. “Really?”

“Yeah,” Yoongi said airily, a smile curling at his lips. “You know I like pups, Jimin. And pups that are ours, I... I would like that a lot.”

Cheeks tinged pink, Jimin smiled in return. “I would, too.”

“Okay,” Yoongi said, seemingly an affirmation for himself. “Okay, great.”

Jimin muffled a yawn and Yoongi kissed his temple. “Let’s sleep for now, huh?”

Jimin hummed and crawled toward the top of the bed, quickly burrowing into the sheets as he waited for Yoongi to change and join him. Minutes later, Yoongi blew out the candles of their room and climbed into bed, curling around Jimin with a content sigh.

Jimin tucked himself under Yoongi’s chin and purred, satisfied and warm, wrapped up in Yoongi’s arms.

Chapter Text

Jimin stirred, breathing heavy and labored. He shifted over to snuggle into the body beside him. Warm. Too warm. There was sweat along Jimin’s temples and a tangible flush to his skin.

Jimin threw off the covers with a shaky inhale, opening his eyes to a dark bedroom. It didn’t look familiar, but the scent permeating the sheets and air assured Jimin that the foreign setting was safe. He struggled to sit up, legs tangled and body tensed with pain.

“Jimin?” Yoongi asked groggily, blinking through the darkness to peer at the omega.

Jimin brushed hair away from his eyes and winced as a wave of pain rolled through his abdomen. He couldn’t sit still; it’d be too much to handle. “It hurts,” Jimin whined, trying to crawl away. His arms shook as he struggled to support himself, limbs too weak to handle much of anything.

“Wait, just—wait,” Yoongi rasped quickly, removing himself from the sheets to pad toward the other end of the bed. “I’ll carry you to the kitchen,” he said, holding out his arms, expecting Jimin to come closer.

“But I want it to go away,” Jimin argued. He wrapped his arms around his midsection and slumped forward.

“I know, pup. It’ll go away soon. Let’s go get water and a cold cloth for you first, though. Hm?”

“Yoonie,” Jimin mumbled with a pout, his instincts insisting he stay in bed and nest, prepare for the brunt of his heat.

“You trust me, right Jimin? I’ve always taken good care of you,” Yoongi said gently.

Jimin worried his bottom lip. “Yeah,” Jimin said hesitantly.

“Good. C’mere, Jiminie. It’s gonna be hard for you to walk on your own.”

Jimin slowly unwrapped his arms from himself and leaned forward, very unsteadily crawling toward the edge of the bed. Yoongi placed an arm under Jimin’s thighs, then secured the other around Jimin’s back. Jimin clung to his shoulders as he was lifted, burying his nose against Yoongi’s neck.

Yoongi dramatically grunted as he turned around, heading toward the hall. He hummed as he navigated them through the shadow of the hallway, stepping into the kitchen on memory alone. He stopped in front of the counter and patted Jimin’s bum, giving him warning before he set the omega down onto the countertop.

Jimin wouldn’t release his hold on Yoongi’s shoulders, whimpering as he tried to pull away.

“Jiminie,” Yoongi sighed. “It’s okay. I’m not going anywhere.”

Jimin didn’t quite believe him. He squinted at Yoongi in suspicion. Yoongi rolled his eyes and swiftly kissed Jimin’s forehead before reaching up to pry Jimin’s hands off himself. “Just getting water,” he reminded as Jimin grumbled.

Yoongi lit a candle first, shedding their corner of the kitchen in a warm orange hue. They must have not slept that long, considering the evident bags beneath Yoongi’s eyes. He smiled at Jimin assuredly as he walked past to the faucet. He pulled out a single glass; Jimin stared intensely as water slowly filled it, a drop rippling the surface as Yoongi shut the tap off.

Yoongi handed the glass to Jimin, careful that the latter could hold it. Jimin needed to use both hands. Jimin took a sip under Yoongi’s scrutiny.

“Keep drinking while I get a cloth,” Yoongi murmured, ruffling Jimin’s hair before he stepped away.

Jimin held the glass tighter and focused on his whitening knuckles, the way his short fingers curled around the circumference, pink hue reflected against the water. Jimin brought the rim up carefully, taking sips to avoid spilling. Jimin felt an immense urge to please his alpha, so even once Yoongi had returned, Jimin continued drinking in lieu of tracking his every movement. Footsteps, switch of the tap, water seeping out of the cloth as Yoongi wrung it.

Jimin was over halfway done by the time Yoongi had returned to him. Jimin lowered the glass and showed it to Yoongi. “Look. I did good. Let’s go now.”

“You did do good,” Yoongi chuckled. “Just wait another minute, pup.”

Yoongi took the drink from Jimin and set it on the counter. He stepped between Jimin’s legs and held the cloth up, dabbing the cool surface to Jimin’s flushed skin. He wiped off Jimin’s forehead, temples, then down to his neck, holding the cloth to his nape while Jimin sighed in relief.

“How bad is it?” Yoongi asked quietly.

The candle flickered, light wavering over Yoongi’s face.

“Clenching in my gut,” Jimin muttered. “And my veins feel hot.”

“Pleasant,” Yoongi joked. He ran his palm along Jimin’s thigh, soothing him as he moved the cloth back up to Jimin’s forehead. “Are you ready for this?”

Jimin crossed his ankles behind Yoongi’s back, holding him in place. “For the rest of this heat? Never.”

Yoongi shook his head. “Mating.”

“Oh,” Jimin said, lingering on the syllable for a moment. “Yeah. I can kinda feel an ache along my neck, like my body knows what’s coming. Wants it.”

“And you want it, too?”

“Yoonie,” Jimin huffed. “I’m sure, alright?” He grasped Yoongi’s cheeks, meeting his gaze firmly despite the haze in his own head.

“Alright,” Yoongi replied, eyes widening a fraction.

Jimin released him, satisfied, and sat back. Yoongi pulled the cloth away and just observed Jimin for a second longer. The tension was clamping down on Jimin’s insides again. His lips parted, broken breath leaving him as he tried to brace himself. Yoongi pressed Jimin to his chest and rubbed his back, shushing him as Jimin nuzzled into his neck.

When the pain subsided somewhat, Jimin slung his arms around Yoongi’s neck. Yoongi secured his hold around Jimin again and lifted him, moving them back toward the bedroom, to Jimin’s great relief.

Jimin rested his cheek against Yoongi’s shoulder for a moment and shut his eyes, feeling the alpha’s heartbeat against his own. This felt nice, Jimin thought. Being in their own intimate space, safe in Yoongi’s embrace—Jimin could get used to this.

Jimin sucked in sharply as he lurched backwards, getting dropped onto the mattress below. His grip loosened and he sank into the bed, staring at the ceiling shortly before the bedroom’s strong scent engulfed him, and Jimin was snapped back into action. He rolled over and sat up, beginning to gather the furs and blankets already laid out on the end of the bed. Yoongi took some more out of the chest, handing them over to Jimin.

Yoongi stepped away, leaving Jimin to nest as he lit the two candles on their nightstands. Jimin deftly arranged the furs in the center of the bed, creating a circle big enough to fit them both.

“How many pups do you want?” Jimin asked as he arranged the fabrics.

Yoongi paused, caught off guard. He hummed to himself, considering it. Although they both knew the other wanted pups, and had since they began courting, the quantity had never really been discussed. Jimin had sort of figured that Yoongi would want a smaller family like his own had been.

“Four,” Yoongi said decidedly. He sat at the edge of the mattress and watched Jimin move about, adjusting each minute detail.

Jimin blinked up at him. “Really?”

“Mm. What about you?”

Jimin bit the inside of his cheek, holding back a grin. “Five,” he countered.

“Oh, so you’re trying to one-up me,” Yoongi chuckled.

“Nuh uh,” Jimin denied.

“And here I was considering you and the state of your body. You really wanna pop out five pups, Jiminie?”

Jimin scoffed. “As if four isn’t a lot.”

“It’s less than five.”

“Well, true. Technically. I can handle it, though.”

“That’s a lot of breaks from hunting,” Yoongi said, quieter now.

Jimin hovered over the top of the nest, hesitating at the reminder. “Yeah,” he exhaled. “But maybe I can take breaks between? Like, keep them a couple years apart.” Jimin pursed his lips. “Of course, they have to be old enough to spend the day in the care facility before I can actually go back to work.”

Jimin sat back on his legs, sifting through all the holes in his logic.

“I could stay home with them part of the time,” Yoongi suggested.

Jimin smiled softly. “Can you breast feed them?”

Yoongi was quiet. Jimin nudged one last section of fur into place. He shrugged.

“It’s okay. I can figure it out later,” Jimin said, a slight waver in his voice.

“I understand if hunting’s more important to you, Jimin,” Yoongi murmured, trying to meet Jimin’s eyes. “It’s alright. It’ll be just as great if we only have one or two, or even put it off for a while. We’re pretty young.”

Jimin stared at his lap, throat tight. His abdomen tensed, another reminder of just how empty he was inside.

“I get jealous when I see Taehyung,” Jimin confessed in a whisper. “I hear him talk about his pup, imagine what it’s going to look like when he finally gets to hold them. Imagine what it’ll feel like for him.” Jimin titled his head, eyes a little watery. “I want it, too. I wanna know what it feels like, growing that life inside me. Wanna hear my pup’s first cries, scent them, hold them. I just can’t stop thinking about it, Yoongi. Their tiny hands and button nose and—and—” Jimin stopped, lump too big in his throat.

Yoongi grasped Jimin’s hand. He leaned forward and pressed a gentle kiss to Jimin’s cheek. “You really do want it.”

Jimin nodded, tears pricking his eyes, caused by the wave of emotion and the pain mounting within him.

“You know I’ll give you whatever you want. Absolutely anything. You want it, Minie, and it’s yours,” Yoongi said, voice a near whisper, tone reverent as he took Jimin in.

Jimin met Yoongi’s eyes, tears pricking at his own. Yoongi smiled warmly and swiped his thumb under Jimin’s lash-line, gathering the newly shed tears. Jimin searched his gaze, finding the conviction he desperately needed.

“Please give me a pup,” Jimin uttered.

Yoongi cupped his cheek, expression soft. He leaned forward and kissed Jimin sweetly, the omega falling lax under his touch. Jimin parted his lips, mind going blank as the heat festering under his skin overtook him. He gripped the comforter beneath him for leverage, otherwise still as Yoongi deepened the kiss, grasping Jimin’s chin to tilt his head. Jimin naturally went pliant, awaiting as Yoongi inevitably took control.

Jimin hunched forward as Yoongi nipped his lower lip, crowding further into the alpha’s space. His neck prickled with discomfort, hot and flushed, the sensation crawling down his spine and setting the rest of his body alight in quick succession. Jimin reached up to struggle with the hem of his shirt, huffing against Yoongi’s mouth at the uselessness of his quivering hands. Yoongi took note and swiftly broke away, helping Jimin tug it off.

Chest bare, Jimin gravitated back into Yoongi, shockingly held back by a firm hand on his shoulder. Yoongi brushed his knuckles along Jimin’s forehead. “You’re overheating again,” he muttered.

“Make it stop,” Jimin breathed, reaching out for Yoongi, digging his hands into the loose material of Yoongi’s shirt.

“I’d tell you to relax, but your scent says you’re fully in heat now,” Yoongi sighed. Jimin tugged at Yoongi’s shirt, the latter taking it off after little pestering. He carefully moved to the center of Jimin’s nest, managing to leave the omega’s tedious work undisturbed. “C’mere,” he murmured, crossing his legs and patting his thigh.

Jimin eagerly clambered into his lap and pressed their chests together, purring at the skin to skin contact. Jimin nuzzled into Yoongi’s neck and threw his arms around his shoulders. He wiggled around, frowning over how wet his sleep pants had become. Jimin had barely even noticed the slick leaking out, soaking his clothes and filling the room with the scent of his arousal.

Jimin shuddered as another wave of slick gushed out of him. He was losing the ability to voice his discontent, head growing foggy with a heat-induced haze. He clutched at Yoongi tighter, squirming and gasping, scenting Yoongi to try to calm his hormones down.

Yoongi shushed him, fingertips skimming down Jimin’s back until he reached the waistband of Jimin’s pants. He began to ease them off Jimin’s hips. Jimin sighed in relief as the wet material slid past his thighs. He weakly lifted himself up so Yoongi could tug them off the rest of the way, tossing the item to the floor.

Jimin plastered himself back to Yoongi and rutted forward, not entirely sure how to achieve the release he was seeking. Yoongi hummed and gripped Jimin’s hip, holding him still while the omega whimpered against his neck.

“Want me to make you feel better, hm Jiminie?” Yoongi asked, other palm skimming over the curve of Jimin’s bum, briefly gripping the supple flesh. Jimin nodded, eyes shut tight. He felt the rumble in Yoongi’s chest. “I’m gonna need a yes, baby.”

Jimin dug his nails into the taut muscle of Yoongi’s back. “Y-yes, please,” he managed to brokenly utter.

He felt Yoongi’s finger circle his wet rim. Jimin tensed for a moment, then eased up, his shock over the touch soon replaced with anticipation and excitement.

“You’re surprisingly polite while in heat,” Yoongi commented, pressing his finger harder against Jimin’s rim, nearly breaching through. Jimin rocked back, satisfaction flickering within him as the digit slipped past the ring of muscles. Yoongi clicked his tongue, pushing his finger in further rather than chastising him. “Just when I was going to praise you for being good.”

“Can still—” Jimin huffed, “P-praise me.”

Yoongi smoothed his hand along Jimin’s waist and tilted his head to press a kiss to his sweaty bangs. Jimin rolled his hips down, urging Yoongi to move. Yoongi knew it didn’t take Jimin as long to adjust while he was in heat, so he already began to prod at Jimin’s rim with a second digit. Two fingers rubbing against his prostate was better than one.

Jimin eased into the familiar motions, moaning as Yoongi stretched him slowly, building up his pleasure meanwhile. Slick coated Yoongi’s hand, stained the material of his own pants, and was probably wetting the comforter, too. Jimin couldn’t care less, though, busy enough panting against Yoongi’s scent gland and shuddering under the alpha’s ministrations.

Jimin lost focus, lost his grasp on time, flooded with warmth, pleasure, and Yoongi’s scent. He continued to subtly rock into Yoongi, taking all the alpha was willing to give him, mind nothing but a foggy sea of lust and love. He came to with four fingers already inside him, stretch aching yet pleasant, body still hungry for more. Jimin moaned breathily as Yoongi’s nail scraped along his inner walls, pressing incessantly against his prostate, helping him ride a wave of bright light behind his eyelids and tingling under his skin.

Orgasm mounting, Jimin mouthed along Yoongi’s scent gland. Yoongi’s grip was steady on Jimin’s hip, his chest heaving against the omega’s. Jimin felt so secure in his arms—safe, loved, and thoroughly cared for. This alpha loved him so wholeheartedly, Jimin’s subconscious reminded through the thick haze. This one was his; Jimin couldn’t let him go.

As Jimin’s muscles tensed and breathing quickened, he pressed his teeth to Yoongi’s neck, at the juncture of his shoulder. His instincts were demanding he bite down, claim the alpha that cared for him so well.

Yoongi’s lips ghosted over the shell of Jimin’s ear. He could sense Jimin’s desire, feel his restraint as he was pushed closer to the edge.

“Go ahead,” Yoongi whispered, no hesitation. “Bite me.”

Jimin seized up for a single moment, abdomen clenching and nerves on fire. He sank his teeth in as he came. Yoongi hissed, part pain, most contentment Then there was blood on his tongue, come between them, and an ease to the pressure in his head.

Jimin fell limp against Yoongi, heart swelling as if a piece of himself had finally returned to him. Yoongi took a second to compose himself, absently rubbing Jimin’s back, surely feeling the effects of the claim harder than Jimin was. Jimin would be much more overwhelmed once the bond was complete. But for now, he was happy to know that Yoongi was his. Fully and forever.

Jimin mustered the energy to lap at the remaining blood on Yoongi’s neck, moving back an inch to admire the mark through tired eyes. He barely whined as Yoongi gently detached the omega front his front, laying him out on the mattress once again.

Yoongi reached up to touch the mating mark, already healing over. Jimin watched him blearily, empty over the lack of physical contact. He inhaled deeply, then made weak grabbing motions with one hand, hoping Yoongi would notice and return to him.

Yoongi’s attention flickered back to Jimin and he chuckled, sound rough and raspy. “Sorry, needy boy,” he teased, leaning over Jimin to smile down at him fondly.

Jimin puckered his lips and Yoongi accepted the invitation, pecking him briefly, lingering, then giving him a firmer and longer kiss. “I should be nicer, shouldn’t I?” Yoongi mused, grasping Jimin’s hand and kissing the palm. “Poor baby.”

Jimin purred as his lips skimmed over to his wrist, pressing light kisses along his skin, trailing up his arm. Yoongi stopped at Jimin’s shoulder, sucking a dark spot onto his skin before he broke away, eyes meeting Jimin’s. “My pretty baby.”

Jimin would be visibly preening if he had the energy.

“Yoon,” Jimin mumbled, pawing at Yoongi’s chest. The omega was still hard after his orgasm, cock strained, hole wet and fluttering. There was a gnawing emptiness within him, desperate to be filled.

Yoongi knew; he saw it in Jimin’s hazy eyes, heard it in his strained tone, felt it between their fractured bond. He gently brushed the damp fringe off Jimin’s forehead, skimmed his knuckles along Jimin’s pink cheek. “I know,” he said sympathetically, offering Jimin a reassuring smile.

Yoongi gripped Jimin’s hips and tugged the omega closer. He managed to remove his pants rather quickly, smoothing his palms up and down Jimin’s waist to soothe him somewhat. Jimin spread his legs, head pressed back into the mattress in anticipation. Yoongi slotted himself between Jimin’s thighs, grasping the thick muscle of one, squeezing to draw Jimin’s attention.

“Doing okay?” Yoongi asked. It took Jimin a second to process the question. When it finally clicked, he nodded. He couldn’t articulate what he needed, but he was sure Yoongi knew well enough. “Good,” Yoongi murmured.

He briefly took Jimin in, from his heaving chest to his mussed hair. Jimin clutched the sheets as Yoongi guided his cock to his leaking rim, groaning as he pushed past the stretched muscle. It still stung a bit, adjusting to the thickness of his cock, yet Jimin couldn’t complain—much too sated by the sensation of being filled.

“There you go,” Yoongi breathed, eyes fixed on Jimin, careful and attentive as always. “You take me so well, Jiminie. Every time.”

Jimin bit his lip and whimpered, shiver wracking through him as Yoongi slowly bottomed out. Yoongi’s cock brushed against Jimin’s prostate. The alpha held him still by his hips as he squirmed.

“M-move,” Jimin stuttered, body desperate for more, for that awaited knot.

Yoongi didn’t comply right away, though, momentarily distracted as he brushed his fingertips along Jimin’s abdomen. Jimin’s stomach tensed, body reacting to the cock settled deep inside of him. His muscles were strained taut, Yoongi fixated on the smooth and flat expanse. Yoongi pressed his thumb into the dip between Jimin’s hip and stomach. Jimin wondered what he could be imagining, if he was really picturing the same swell that Jimin was.

“Alpha,” Jimin plead, finally snapping him back to attention. “Please.”

Yoongi inhaled shakily and laid his palm out flat. He bent down to kiss Jimin’s bent knee, then rocked forward, offering Jimin the movement he’d desired.

“Ah,” Jimin uttered, lips parted while Yoongi slid out. He thrusted back in rather swiftly, a welcomed friction against Jimin’s sensitive walls.

Yoongi remained upright as he thrust into Jimin, observing the omega’s writhing form from a slight distance. Jimin panted, barely capable of keeping his eyes open, hit by wave after of wave of tingling shocks of pleasure, heat spreading through his arteries like venom. He reached forward, blindly trying to find Yoongi’s arm, maybe urge him closer.

He felt Yoongi’s hand, tried to twine their fingers. Yoongi helped him along, then took the cue when Jimin drew their hands closer to himself. Yoongi leaned in, hovering over Jimin as he picked up his pace, practically slamming into him now, holding Jimin down.

Jimin moaned at the snap of his hips, tried to meet Yoongi’s thrusts. His abdomen felt tight, orgasm growing once more, urged on by the wet slap of their skin, the ragged huffs of breath filling the air.

Jimin raked his fingers up Yoongi’s arm, clutching to his shoulder as he grew more pliant beneath him. Jimin felt so good, wonderfully full. He wished he could tell Yoongi, wished he could wrap his swollen, red lips around the words. He whimpered at a particularly hard thrust, quivered as he felt Yoongi’s cock against the nerves of his prostate, building upon the tension within him.

Jimin’s neck seemed to pulse, muscles strained, scent gland somehow hotter than the rest of his body. He was releasing more pheromones than usual, his omega calling to his mate, begging to be claimed.

Yoongi inched in closer, kissing along Jimin’s jaw as the omega lost himself in the overwhelming sensations. He flicked a thumb over Jimin’s nipple, nipped his skin as he felt Jimin clench around him.

Jimin inhaled sharply as Yoongi’s knot began to swell, stretching his rim even more, a bit painful, yet so very satisfying. Jimin held onto him tighter, scared he might pull out, might leave him in such a vulnerable and wanting state.

Yoongi merely shushed him, kissing the omega’s cheek. “It’s okay. I’m here,” he assured. “Not going anywhere.”

Jimin still dug his nails in, white behind his eyelids as he approached his second release. Jimin needed to tell Yoongi to bite him, needed to feel their bond in full. His throat was tight, though, thoughts incoherent, and tongue tied.

He whimpered, knot now too big to slip out. It was too much, the strain all-consuming. Jimin knew he was going to come any moment.

“Yours,” he gasped. It was much as he could manage, only hoping Yoongi understood.

Yoongi watched him for a passing beat, eyes hooded and sharp. His gaze met Jimin’s very briefly, but he seemed to find the confirmation he was searching for.

Hips pressed flush to Jimin’s ass, heaving chests mere inches apart, Yoongi wrapped an arm around Jimin’s waist. Their bodies moved together, as much as the knot would allow. Yoongi nosed along Jimin’s jaw, down to his neck, settling against his scent gland.

Jimin shut his eyes, heart stopping for just a second as Yoongi’s teeth scraped along his neck. The brief, subtle contact had Jimin coming. In that time of ecstasy, Yoongi bit down, finally laying his claim.

Jimin barely felt it, already flooded by the overwhelming sensation of their completed bond. His heart was full, ribcage near bursting as Yoongi’s love washed through him. He could feel everything—attachment, pleasure, absolute belonging. It was more than love.

Jimin felt whole.

There was a buzzing in his head as he rode out his high. He was vaguely aware of Yoongi’s tongue on his skin, lips still sealed over the new mark. The alpha’s come was pumping into him, orgasm having hit them just about the same time. Jimin’s entire body eased up, limp and sated as he was filled and bred, warm from the inside out.

Yoongi rolled them over until Jimin was sprawled on his chest, knowing they’d be stuck together for a little while. He kissed Jimin’s cheek, his lips, his forehead. Jimin buried his face in the crook of Yoongi’s neck and fell quiet.

“I love you,” Yoongi whispered into Jimin’s hair, arms wrapped around him securely. “Love you so much.”

Jimin wanted to tell him that he knew, that he could feel it through their bond. He merely hummed. Jimin tried to keep himself conscious, intending to bask in their combined afterglow. But his eyes wouldn’t open, limbs too heavy, breathing already shallow.

When Yoongi urged him to rest, Jimin let himself fall.

☽○☾

There comes a point when want turns to need. When words eventually fail and Jimin merely has to ride out a process as best he can manage. While the first part of a heat may have been tender and gentle, there always came a time when typical inhibitions had to be tossed out. This was usually when he stopped drinking and eating. Stopped trying to be a functioning person altogether.

He’d heard that some alphas were the same way—they’d fall into instinct just as easily as their omega partners during heats.

Luckily, Yoongi remained at least somewhat coherent. He’d clean Jimin up when the omega had drifted to sleep. Coax him to drink water when he woke. Squeeze in snacks every few hours. It was an exhausting endeavor, but Yoongi was patient enough to handle it.

On the second day of Jimin’s heat, Yoongi found the time to cook for them. Jimin sat on his lap, cuddled onto the couch, as he ate slowly. He wasn’t nauseous like he’d been the first day, but he didn’t quiet have an appetite yet, either. Yoongi had been keeping him plenty hydrated, though.

Yoongi set Jimin’s plate on the side table when he deemed his efforts “good enough.” Jimin settled back into the crook of Yoongi’s elbow, attached to the alpha’s side as he gazed out the window.

It had been snowing for hours already, fat flakes drifting leisurely across the white sky, fluttering through the occasional gust of winter wind. The wind was rough at night, rattling the frosted glass panes. Jimin could only wonder how hard it would be trekking to the dining hall once they decided to finally leave the house.

Jimin’s eyelids drooped as he watched a large icicle quiver under a heavy gust. Meanwhile, Yoongi absently fiddled with Jimin’s fingers, observing the short digits, then holding them between his own.

Jimin rested his cheek against Yoongi’s shoulder and sighed.

“Still doing alright?”

Jimin licked his lips, assessed the twinge of discomfort in his abdomen. They’d fucked all through the morning; Jimin could proudly admit he took three knots. Honestly, he was a little fucked out—finally.

“Yeah,” Jimin mumbled. “Just sore.”

“You gonna last another day?” Yoongi chuckled.

“I heard heats stop short if you get pregnant,” Jimin said abruptly. He lifted his head and glanced at Yoongi, saw the question in his expression.

“Is that what you’re counting on?”

Jimin shrugged. “Wouldn’t mind it. That’s all.”

Yoongi merely hummed in reply. He nosed along Jimin’s jaw, moved down to his neck where he could scent the omega. Jimin currently smelled heavily of sex pheromones, but beneath the influence of the heat, there was the underlying scent of Yoongi. A now-permanent fixture.

Yoongi pressed his lips to the healed mating mark. Jimin titled his head to allow him better access.

“I would look good pregnant, wouldn’t I?” Jimin blurted.

Yoongi reeled back and blinked at Jimin. “Huh?”

“I mean, I’ve got a nice figure for it, right? The hips and cinched waist, and...” he trailed off, worrying his bottom lip.

“Yeah,” Yoongi said simply, adjusting to how boldly Jimin was talking about the subject. “I’m glad you’re confident about it,” he added with a hint of mirth.

“It’s all I can really think about now. I mean, during every heat it’s breeding—pups pups pups. But now especially, because, well, it’s possible. Like, even when my head’s all foggy, I know I’m on contraceptives, know I’m not really gonna get knocked up. It feels real this time, though.”

“Does it scare you?” Yoongi asked quietly.

“No,” Jimin said slowly, averting his gaze to the flickering fire and the long shadows it cast across the wooden slats of the floor. “Birth is a scary thing. But the whole process before... I don’t think I’m too worried about that. Not when I get to—get to feel it, y’know?”

Jimin had a hard time articulating what he meant, so he grasped Yoongi’s hand and laid it flat over his stomach. “Like, imagine I’ve got this bump, yeah? And everyone knows there’s this pup in there. But I can feel it. It moves around and kicks and... a-and maybe I feel warmer. Maybe I feel a little more whole.”

Yoongi watched him for a long moment, gently grasped Jimin’s chin to turn him towards himself. Jimin waited as Yoongi processed the notion. Shut his eyes as Yoongi kissed his cheek. His hand pressed firmer to Jimin’s belly, fingers curling against the slight dip of his waist.

“Hard to get the idea out of your head now, huh?” Jimin whispered.

Yoongi pulled Jimin tighter against him suddenly, burying his nose in his hair. Jimin’s eyes widened, cheek squished against Yoongi’s shoulder once more.

“I don’t think I’ve ever been this grateful that you’re an omega,” Yoongi mumbled, words muffled.

Jimin’s lips parted. A pause. Then he snickered. “Why, because we can have pups?”

“You have no clue what the thought of you carrying them does to me. I can’t even wrap my damn head around it, let alone explain it.”

“It’s an alpha thing, Yoon. You don’t have to try to explain it,” Jimin said, wholly amused. “I get it.” He tucked himself under Yoongi’s chin, considering. “So, if you were an omega too, would you still want me to be the one to carry?”

There was only a beat of hesitation. “Yes.”

Jimin gasped rather dramatically. “That’s not very fair, if you’ve got a perfectly functional womb as well.”

“Are you really offended on behalf of this fictional circumstance?”

Jimin pulled away to squint up at Yoongi. “Yes.”

Yoongi rolled his eyes.

“Okay, wait. Why couldn’t we take turns?”

“Take turns?” Yoongi echoed, half incredulous and half entertained. “Wouldn’t that confuse the pups?”

“I don’t see why it would. They’d have the same genetics. Wouldn’t really matter who popped them out.”

“Alright, uh, imagine if Sooyun was an alpha—”

Jimin wrinkled his nose.

“C’mon, just imagine,” Yoongi insisted. “And she and Hyunjae took turns. Wouldn’t that be weird?”

Jimin paused, taken aback by the notion. He couldn’t really picture Hyunjae pregnant. She was... Hyunjae. Tall, awkward, yet very much an alpha. There was no other way to put it.

“Sure. But imagine your appa as an omega,” Jimin began, holding back a sly grin.

Yoongi peered at him, very confused over this thought. “Okay, um, no.”

Jimin giggled over Yoongi’s downright discomfort, satisfied that he’d gotten some payback for forcing that foreign notion into his head.

“Seriously, Yoon. What’s so special about me being the one always carrying pups?” Jimin asked, breathless from laughter.

Yoongi’s expression softened, faux irritation quickly fading. Yoongi shifted beneath him as he considered how to phrase what he wanted to say. He grabbed Jimin’s hips and moved him farther down his lap, where he could better observe the omega.

“It’s just what I’ve pictured since you presented,” Yoongi said, brows drawn. “Like, I knew I was an alpha, and then I waited for you to present. I was fine with the thought of you being an alpha too, but then we got confirmation that you weren’t—aren’t—and...” Yoongi bit his lip. “Since then, that’s all I can see. You and your pretty, glowing face,” he cupped Jimin’s cheek, “and your hips. A-and—”

Yoongi stopped, placed both palms on Jimin’s waist, took a moment before sliding up the hem of his shirt. Jimin looked down at where Yoongi’s gaze was focused; his flat belly, Yoongi’s thumbs skimming over the bare skin.

Jimin slowly reached down and silently tugged his shirt off. Yoongi was still distracted, struggling for words. Jimin leaned in close and kissed him, broke away only to linger. Their noses brushed. Yoongi kissed him again.

He shifted them over, held Jimin more securely before bending down to lay Jimin out on the sofa. Jimin went willingly, eyes curious as Yoongi sat back up, touching him.

“You’re already so full of life,” Yoongi murmured. “An absolute burst of spirit and sunshine. So when I imagine that, a pup, I can’t help picturing it coming from you. I think it just makes sense, in some inexplicable way.”

Yoongi brushed off the fringe falling into Jimin’s eyes. He cupped his cheek then, touch careful and warm.

“You’re so compassionate and gentle. At least, when you want to be. When it comes to the important things,” Yoongi continued. “So I see you with that round belly, proud of your growing bump, gentle as you cradle it.”

Jimin’s heart fluttered, gaze soft as Yoongi just about crooned the image to him. Jimin slotted his hand over Yoongi’s on his cheek. “What else?” He whispered.

Yoongi leaned into him, kissed him for a moment. He pulled away just enough for their lips to ghost over each other’s; so very intimate.

“Nesting,” Yoongi breathed. “You wrapped in too many furs, cuddled up in safe corners.” Another kiss. “Tight clothes so you can show off your pup. Show the whole pack how proud you are of the life you’re growing.” Jimin pressed their lips together this time. “A shift in your scent. The milky hint of a pup beneath your own sweet scent. Just—”

Jimin kissed him deeper, tilted his head, making this wonderful feeling last.

“Everything,” Yoongi finally uttered. “I want it all.”

Warmth pooled in Jimin’s belly, his heat creeping back up on him. Jimin wrapped his arms tight around Yoongi’s shoulders, coaxed him back into his embrace. Felt Yoongi’s love until he was no longer sure where he ended and Yoongi began.

☽○☾

Jimin’s heat broke during the afternoon of the third day. He was on his hands and knees, chest and cheek pressed to the sheets while Yoongi held his hips up. Jimin had been reduced to a whining mess; tired, wet, and done with it all.

Yoongi snapped his hips one last time before his knot locked them together, Jimin shuddering as the alpha soon reached his release. The feeling of being filled brought Jimin to his final orgasm, body spent and left with nothing to give. His walls clenched weakly around the cock inside him while Jimin slumped forward even further. Yoongi was careful as he eased him down, turning them on their sides to hold Jimin against his chest.

Jimin’s breathing was shallow and ragged. His muscles ached, and he was positive he wouldn’t be able to walk straight for a damn week.

Jimin whined as he felt another spurt of come, curling into himself from oversensitivity.

Yoongi hummed as he released calming pheromones. He trailed gentle kisses along the back of Jimin’s neck, although he was just as spent as the omega.

“Don’t fall asleep just yet,” Yoongi coaxed. “You should take a proper bath.”

“Jus’ a nap,” Jimin mumbled, purring as Yoongi nuzzled against his scent gland.

“Minie,” Yoongi sighed, reluctant to pester. “You’ll feel much better once you’re cleaned up. I’ll replace the sheets and—”

“Don’t leave,” Jimin said hurriedly, words slurred together.

“Baby, I won’t. It’ll be quick. I want to make sure you’re comfortable so you can rest well.”

Jimin grumbled, too exhausted to argue much past that.

Once Yoongi’s knot went down, he pulled out slowly, garnering a whimper from Jimin. Yoongi shushed him, rubbing his thigh as come leaked past his rim.

“N-no, keep it in,” Jimin said, voice rough from misuse.

“Sorry,” Yoongi replied with a frown, knowing there wasn’t much he could do to help. “It’s okay, though. You’re okay, Jimin.”

Jimin whined and nuzzled into the sheets. Yoongi begrudgingly nudged him. “Bath, remember?”

“No,” Jimin stubbornly mumbled.

“I’ll carry you,” Yoongi warned. “And there is a good chance I’ll drop you.”

“Dick.”

The bed creaked as Yoongi got up, tugging on some loose, previously discarded pants as he waited for Jimin to stir to action. “C’mon, Min. It won’t take too long.”

A pause. “Will you wash my hair?”

Yoongi snorted in dry amusement. “Sure, pup.”

Jimin very tentatively rolled over, wincing at his overall soreness. As reality flooded back to him, he realized just how gross he was, covered in dry come and slick. He didn’t want to see his hair.

Jimin was slow to get off the bed, taking Yoongi’s offered hand for support as they made the short trip to the bathroom. Jimin sat on the counter and looked at the array of soaps as Yoongi ran the bath. He avoided glancing at the mirror positioned behind him, waiting as long as possible to assess the damage.

Yoongi motioned Jimin over when the tub was full. “The bath’s tap draws from the spring, but it’s not going to be as warm as the water in the dorm,” he warned.

Jimin shrugged. He’d take what he could get.

Yoongi helped him step over the edge. Jimin sank down with a drawn-out sigh, easing into the slightly warm water until it reached his chest. He slumped over and pressed his cheek to the rim, allowing his muscles time to relax.

“I’ll be back in a few minutes,” Yoongi said.

Jimin instinctively reached out to stop him as Yoongi stepped away. He grasped air, arm falling limp as he watched Yoongi with a startled expression.

“It’s alright,” Yoongi coaxed. “I promise it won’t be long.”

Jimin’s throat clenched, panic welling up within him. He forced a nod. Jimin shakily exhaled once Yoongi was out of sight, unsure what to do alone, heart already strained at the minimal distance.

“It’s alright,” Jimin whispered to himself, dropping his hand into the water, feeling it glide between his parted fingers. “It’s alright.”

Jimin stared at the empty doorway as seconds passed by, perking up at every noise, imagining what Yoongi was doing. He couldn’t explain this deep-seated paranoia, nor what he was exactly afraid of. His instincts told him that distance was bad, however. Jimin shouldn’t be without his mate.

“It’s alright,” Jimin repeated, grabbing the edge of the tub until his knuckles turned white.

He pursed his lips as he heard the shuffling of sheets, wanting desperately to be curled up under them with Yoongi. Soon, Jimin told himself. He could do that soon.

Jimin’s heart leapt as he heard Yoongi approach. He sat up despite his stiffness, eyes wide as he watched Yoongi enter. Yoongi paused, noticing how Jimin was looking at him. He tilted his head with a mildly amused smile.

“Hey, pup.”

Jimin reached out, making a grabbing motion with his hand, frustrated that Yoongi wouldn’t just come over here and touch him. Two seconds passed before Jimin huffed irately, a pout overtaking his face.

“Yoongi,” he said.

Yoongi arched a brow.

“Yoongi,” Jimin repeated, voice cracking.

Sympathy flooded Yoongi’s eyes and he swiftly closed the distance, feeling somewhat guilty for teasing Jimin while he was still so vulnerable. He knelt beside the tub, brushing his fingers through Jimin’s sweaty, mussed hair, the omega leaning heavily into his touch.

“Let’s get you cleaned up,” Yoongi murmured, grabbing the soap and setting to work.

He cleaned off Jimin’s body fairly quickly. When he got to the hair, though, Jimin wouldn’t let him stop. Yoongi had both hands buried in the dark strands, massaging his sudsy scalp while Jimin purred. Jimin was resting against the porcelain rim while Yoongi kneaded circles, content enough to fall asleep if given a little more time.

Yoongi removed one hand to start washing the soap out, splashing water over the back of Jimin’s head and rubbing. Jimin grabbed his wrist as Yoongi tried to pull the other hand away.

“Jiminie,” Yoongi sighed. Jimin’s grip was weak enough to merely shake off, but Yoongi refrained. “The faster we finish this, the faster we can go to bed.”

Jimin furrowed his brows, tempted by the offer. “Can we cuddle?” He mumbled.

“Of course,” Yoongi replied, tired yet fond.

Jimin unwrapped his fingers from Yoongi’s wrist, eyeing him cautiously to be sure he wasn’t going to back away altogether.

Yoongi finished rinsing Jimin off, helped him stand, and wrapped a towel around his shoulders. Jimin stood in the middle of the bathroom, huddled into his fluffy towel while Yoongi dried his hair with another. Satisfied, Yoongi tossed the second towel into the hamper and led Jimin to the doorway. Jimin abruptly stopped in front of the mirror.

He stepped closer, staring at his reflection. His skin was paler than usual, lips bitten and red. His hair wasn’t too dull. Jimin focused in on the blatant red mark on his neck, fingertips brushing over the scar reverently. There were lighter marks and bruises scattered across his shoulders, chest, and jaw. But Jimin couldn’t take his eyes away from the claim.

“Hey,” Yoongi said gently, palm pressed to his lower back. “It’ll still be there when you wake up. So let’s rest for now, okay?”

Jimin’s lips parted, response dying in his throat. He tore his gaze from the mirror. Jimin nodded.

Jimin practically limped back to their bedroom, relieved beyond words to sink down into the mattress. He threw off the towel and crawled under the sheets, too tired to bother with clothes. Yoongi made him drink a glass of water before he could properly lay down.

He watched the sky darken beyond the window pane, sun sinking further below the line of trees, shedding the forest in a blanket of deep and vibrant blue. The snow would surely overtake the horizon by morning.

Once he was settled in bed, Jimin fully sank into the warmth and comfort of the new sheets. He snuggled up to Yoongi and shut his eyes, breathing in his scent as his aching limbs fell numb. Jimin felt Yoongi’s palm pressed over his belly, touch gentle and firm, as he drifted off.

Chapter Text

Jimin stood outside the doorway of his parents’ room, careful to stay still, otherwise the floorboards might creak. He wrung the hem of his sweater, tiny knuckles white under his tight grip.

Sooyun had been bedridden for days. She couldn’t cuddle Jimin or cook him food. She didn’t even tuck him in at night! Hyunjae was the only one to give him goodnight kisses. His eomma must have been like this forever. Then finally, yesterday, Sooyun was shouting, there was a commotion, and Jae’s medic friends came over. Jimin was handed off to the Mins for the whole day.

When he came back, his eomma didn’t even remember to greet him. She was too busy tending to the new pup in her arms.

Jimin didn’t think Jihyun was a bad person. But he was a bit of an attention-hog. All he did was wail and sleep, forcing Sooyun to look after him constantly. Jimin was already fed up with it. Who did this pup think he was, coming into Jimin’s home and stealing his eomma like that?

Now Jimin just felt lost. He knew he should be a big boy, find his own snacks in the kitchen, dress himself, and go to bed alone. But it was hard trying to adjust so suddenly. To make it even worse, Jimin’s eommas seemed so happy being with the pup. They cooed at him and rocked him, made sure he was always entertained.

The pup was asleep most of the time, yet even at this moment, Sooyun was fretting over the blanket swaddling Jihyun, making sure he was warm and comfortable enough. She was saying something to Hyunjae, lips wrapped around soft utterances as her gaze remained focused on the pup cradled in her arms.

The pup’s nose twitched and Sooyun’s voice tapered off. She paused to observe the small movement, his face scrunched up—a face not too similar to Jimin’s. Jihyun had a different nose, different lips, a thinner face overall. Jihyun looked like Hyunjae. Jimin wasn’t sure who he looked like; his eomma in some aspects, but not many.

Jimin leaned into the doorframe, peering at the pup to get a better look. He lost his balance, though, and stumbled a step, the floor creaking beneath his weight. Hyunjae quickly glanced over and caught him staring.

Jimin met her eyes and blinked, a little panicked. Was he in trouble for spying on them?

Hyunjae collected herself and said something to Sooyun.

The omega’s gaze flickered over, surprise dawning on her gentle features. She nodded.

Hyunjae moved to her feet and walked around the bed to reach Jimin. Jimin staggered back, looking up at her tall figure, wide-eyed. Hyunjae stopped in front of Jimin and held out her hand. He instinctively took it, proceeding to follow her down the hall.

“It’s nice out today, isn’t it, Minie?” Hyunjae prompted as she halted by the door. She grabbed two of their coats hanging on the rack, then bent down to wrap Jimin in his. She buttoned it carefully and pulled the collar up to his chin. She patted his sleeves down to ensure he was fully covered.

“Uh huh,” Jimin mumbled as Hyunjae shrugged her own coat on.

Opening the front door forced them face to face with a burst of early spring light. The air was chilly, but as they stepped outside and descended the stairs, the sun warmed Jimin’s back.

They walked along the northern slope of the hill, Hyunjae shortening her strides to match Jimin’s slower pace. Jimin watched a flock of birds flit overhead, moving toward the eastern edge of the woods. The farther along they went, the more prominent the sound of trickling water became.

“How are you feeling, Jiminie?” Hyunjae asked, guiding them closer to the stream that he and Yoongi often skipped pebbles in. It would be much too cold to stick his toes in the water this time of year, Jimin thought glumly.

Jimin shrugged in response.

“Not very chatty today,” Hyunjae hummed, keeping her tone light. “Are you doing alright? Anything you wanna talk about?”

Jimin let go of her and moved ahead to crouch by the waterside. He stuck his fingertips into the stream, barely breaching the surface, and clenched his jaw in shock. “Cold,” Jimin breathed, falling back onto his bum with a huff.

Hyunjae stood over him for a moment longer, gauging his hesitance. She didn’t pester. Exhaling, Hyunjae settled down in the grass beside Jimin, following his lead by sifting through the colored rocks on the shore. She smoothed her thumb over a flat stone, turning it over to examine its shape and weight before passing it off to Jimin.

Jimin eagerly accepted it, already squinting as he began to angle his wrist. He stuck his tongue between his lips in concentration.

“To your right. The stream’s calmer,” Hyunjae murmured, watching him carefully as Jimin set up his shot.

Jimin’s breath hitched as he tossed it. One skip, two, then a faltering third. Hyunjae held up her hand and Jimin swiftly slapped it. Victory.

Hyunjae leaned back on her palms, patient enough to let Jimin simmer in his silence. Jimin occupied his hands with picking at grass, the elation from his skips ebbing quickly. Jimin squished a blade of grass between his fingertips, watching it bleed yellow onto his skin as he continued to rub the green mush.

“Jaejae,” Jimin mumbled, lips pouted as he stared at the glimmering water before them.

“Nn?”

“Does Eomma not need me anymore?”

Hyunjae’s gaze flickered to Jimin, brows drawn in confusion and concern. “What do you mean?”

“Eomma u-used to need me, right? ‘Cause we’d do everything together. Sleep and eat and take baths. It was just us, and she said it only had to be us. But now she’s got the other pup. She doesn’t need me to cuddle with at night, o-or play with. She’s got a new one.”

“Jimin,” Hyunjae started off slowly, gathering her thoughts. “Just because there’s a new pup around, that doesn’t mean your eomma isn’t going to spend time with you anymore. You’re still her baby. Of course she still wants to, probably feels like she needs to, be with you and do things with you. But newborn pups,” she paused, mulling over her words. “Newborn pups just need more attention.”

“Sounds kinda selfish,” Jimin confessed.

Hyunjae couldn’t hold back a breathless chuckle. “Let me put it in different terms. So, you’re six now.”

Jimin nodded proudly. Hyunjae smiled in return.

“Pups who are six can do a lot more things than pups who are only a day old. Have you noticed that Jihyun can’t walk? Talk? Or really even move at all? He needs his eommas for everything right now. But you’re more grown up, so you don’t need our help as much. It’s not a matter of how much we want to do with you. It’s more like, how much we need to do for Jihyun. Does that make sense?”

Jimin wrinkled his nose. “How long’s he gonna be like that?”

Hyunjae hummed, then leaned down, glancing around in conspiratorial caution. “I’m gonna be honest with you, because you’re a big boy,” she said, quieting her tone. Jimin’s eyes widened with interest. “The truth is, it’s gonna be a little while. But that’s okay. Everyone goes through that phase. You even did, too. You’re older now, though, so you get to do fun stuff that Jihyun’s not big enough for yet.”

Jimin gasped. “Like climb trees.”

“Right, like climb trees,” Hyunjae said solemnly. “So really, you’ve gotta have a little sympathy for him right now. He’ll get big someday, but we all gotta take it slow, learn how to adjust around him in the meantime.”

Jimin glanced back down at his hands, yellow and green. “When... when d’you think Eomma can start doing normal things again? Like cooking and bath time?”

Hyunjae’s lips quirked up in amusement. “Soon, pup. She’ll be getting back into things soon.”

“You promise?” Jimin said seriously, meeting her eyes.

“More than a promise,” Hyunjae stated. “I swear.”

“That’s too serious!” Jimin exclaimed.

“I’m an adult. I can be serious,” Hyunjae attempted to assure, snickering as she patted his head. “Trust me, Jiminie.”

“Mm, okay,” Jimin replied, sated by that answer.

Hyunjae’s expression softened then, her palm sliding down to rest firm against his back. “You know I love you lots, right? And no new addition to our family is ever going to change that.”

Jimin bit the inside of his cheek. “Even if I don’t look like you?” He asked hesitantly, voice wavering. It felt almost shameful to ask, but Jimin had to know, even if the truth hurt.

Hyunjae was most taken aback by this response, her face falling blank as she processed the insinuation. “Oh, Minie,” she eventually sighed. “I don’t know why you’d even consider that. Has that been worrying you?”

“I dunno,” Jimin said, honest as he could manage. “I just thought Jihyun looks like you. And maybe...”

“I need you to know,” Hyunjae began firmly, grasping one of Jimin’s hands. It fit so perfectly against her palm, tiny and delicate against her rough skin. “That blood doesn’t matter. I don’t care what any of the other wolves in this pack say. You are my son, and I love you as such. Do you understand?” She waited for his reply, expectant.

Jimin blinked, shock by her adamant declaration. “Mm.”

“Good,” Hyunjae murmured. “I care about you not just because you’re Sooyun’s pup, but because you are my pup, too. I don’t want you to ever think otherwise.”

Hyunjae tugged Jimin closer to her side, and Jimin nuzzled against her shoulder in turn. She rubbed his arm to warm him, then pressed a gentle kiss to his head. “Silly boy. I love you. I love you from here to the horizon, and beyond. Don’t ever question that.”

☽○☾

Jimin rubbed sleep from his eyes and padded down the hall, following the scent of food. His oversized shirt was slipping off his shoulder, thighs bare and feet cold against the hardwood. He’d just rolled out of bed, barely bothering to pat his wild hair down.

He gravitated toward Yoongi’s lone figure in the kitchen, colliding with his back and wrapping his arms around the alpha tight. He buried his face between Yoongi’s shoulder blades, slumping into him completely.

“Morning,” Yoongi chuckled, trying to shift around to see Jimin.

Jimin only grumbled in response, barely cognizant. He scented Yoongi, ignoring his mate’s attempts to return the embrace.

“Why are you so tired? You slept, like, ten hours,” Yoongi said.

“Shut up. Everything’s sore,” Jimin whined. “I thought we were supposed to be done with sex after my heat passed.”

“I have no clue why you’re complaining. You’ve initiated most of it,” Yoongi replied with evident mirth. He finally managed to untangle Jimin’s arms from around his midsection, spinning himself around to face the omega.

Jimin just fell into his chest, cuddling against his front. “I didn’t ask for logic. Just sympathy,” Jimin huffed, nuzzling his way into the crook of Yoongi’s neck.

Yoongi hugged him and hummed, palm rubbing along the curve of his waist. “Okay, you’ve earned my sympathy. What do you want me to do?”

“Dunno,” Jimin sighed. “Stay for a bit.”

Yoongi smiled and pressed his nose to Jimin’s tussled hair. “I’m here.”

Jimin purred, content to hold steady in the warmth and scent surrounding him. When Jimin was with Yoongi, touching him in any manner, he felt indescribably whole. There was a tangible tugging at his heart when his mate was too far away. But this was nice—this felt right.

“Of course, I’ll have to move at some point if you want food,” Yoongi reminded. “I know you haven’t eaten in a while.”

Jimin pouted, realizing there was little room to argue. “I want eggs. And toast. Oh, do we have any of that apple jam left?” Jimin pulled away, looking up at Yoongi expectantly.

“Sorry, pup. You ate the last of that yesterday,” Yoongi said. “Don’t get all mopey. I already made your eggs. I figured you could smell it.”

Jimin perked up and looked over his shoulder. “I do,” he said, suddenly remembering what drew him to the kitchen in the first place.

Yoongi untangled himself so he could hand the plate over to Jimin.

Jimin scuttled over to a stool by the counter, where he could eat and watch Yoongi flit about.

Jimin dug in, the empty feeling in his gut intensifying. He’d mostly been lounging around lately, too lazy to get up and feed himself unless Yoongi reminded him to. Jimin didn’t stray from the bedroom often, and in turn, the days faded together. It must have been a while since his heat ended, but Jimin couldn’t be sure just how long it’d been since he last went outside. A week? Maybe longer.

As if sensing his thoughts, Yoongi trailed over and leaned into the countertop, observing Jimin as he simmered in his own contemplation. “Do you think you want to go out soon?” He asked quietly.

Jimin continued to chew, wary to answer, hesitant over the matter. “How long’s it been?” Jimin diverted.

“I think it’s still December,” Yoongi half-heartedly joked.

Jimin managed a small smile. “What, a week? Two?”

“A week and a half, I’m pretty sure,” Yoongi said. “Not ridiculously long, but... I figured you might be getting bored. Or stir-crazy.”

Jimin folded his hands in his lap, expression neutral. He worried his bottom lip, trying to find the words to explain what he’d been feeling. “I don’t mind being here,” he slowly began. “I feel really unproductive, but also, my body really only wants to rest. I guess I could still be trying to flush out all the stress that’d been building up.

“I do miss the pack, though—having meals with everyone, going out and just doing stuff, even if we can’t hunt right now. But I’ve got this weird feeling, like I shouldn’t be leaving home. Like I’m not safe out there, and I don’t know where it’s coming from. Could be the new mating bond, o-or fear? Am I scared of our territory now?” Jimin said, voice cracking.

Jimin buried his face in his hands as he evened his breathing out. Yoongi rounded the corner, sliding an arm over Jimin’s shoulders, then pulled him against his chest.

“It’s okay,” Yoongi said as Jimin clung to him. “Fear is healthy. It keeps us cautious.”

“But I want to go back out there at some point,” Jimin protested. “Hunters can’t be afraid of what’s out in those woods—”

“But we are, aren’t we?” Yoongi interrupted, tone firm. “We’ve all got our fears, and we have every right to be scared right now. We overcome that, though, right? We face the things that scare us so we can move on. It just... it takes time. And you’ve got time, Jimin. It’s going to be months before we can hunt again.”

Jimin sniffled and exhaled.

Yoongi rubbed his back and released calming pheromones, helping Jimin piece himself back together.

“It’s so frustrating,” Jimin said, clenching and unclenching his fist in the material of Yoongi’s shirt. “It’s more than a thought, it’s a physical thing. I feel weak and uncomfortable when I imagine stepping outside. God, I hope these instincts fade.”

Yoongi sighed and rested his chin atop Jimin’s head. “Well, I’ll go whenever you do, alright? Whether it’s tomorrow or another week from now, you don’t have to do it alone.”

“Yoongi, c’mon! I don’t wanna miss breakfast,” Jimin called, idling by the front door, hands buried in his sleeves. The horizon was white, promising another batch of snow within the day. Jimin at least wanted to make it to the dining hall before it came down upon them.

Yoongi scurried out from the hallway, halting abruptly before Jimin and engulfing him in a huge, thick coat. Jimin was allowed no time to question it, fur already up to his cheeks, body thoroughly bundled up.

“What,” Jimin said simply, glancing between the coat and Yoongi’s self-satisfied expression. “I didn’t even know you had this.”

“I checked the temperature when you were getting dressed. It’s cold,” Yoongi explained.

Jimin gaped. “Yoongi, you’re fretting.”

Yoongi leaned forward. “Let me have this one thing, alright? Be warm, Park Jimin. Do it for me.”

A grin curled its way onto Jimin’s lips. “Park?” He echoed.

It was Yoongi’s turn to be surprised. “What? That’s your name.”

Jimin snickered and turned around to wrench the door open, a gust of bitter wind hitting them face-on. Jimin took his first tentative step out, leaving Yoongi to trail after in confusion.

“Jimin,” Yoongi said as Jimin skipped down the stairs.

Jimin hopped from the last step to the ground, landing in inches of undisturbed, stiff snow. He shivered and tugged the coat around his midsection tighter. Maybe he didn’t mind the excess precaution, after all.

“Jimin, clarify.”

“It’s nothing,” Jimin said mirthfully, wading through the snow. He held out his hand for Yoongi, hoping they could support each other in some manner throughout the difficult trek. “I just forgot I haven’t gotten my name changed yet.”

“Yet?” Yoongi replied, grasping Jimin’s hand and following after him, already huffing from exertion. “Goddamn. There has to be a worn path out here.” Yoongi frowned as he sank into a particularly deep patch, almost losing his balance. His nose scrunched up, already red from the cold. “Anyway, you never mentioned changing your name.”

“I didn’t?” Jimin mused. “We never discussed that?”

“No. I’d just assumed you’d keep Park.”

“Why would I keep Park when I could be a Min?” Jimin asked, tone open and genuine. He shifted around to meet Yoongi’s eyes, the both of them pausing mid-stride.

Yoongi blinked, actually taken aback. “If it wasn’t such a struggle to reach you, I’d kiss you right now.”

Jimin broke out into a wide grin. “Min Jimin,” he teased, searching Yoongi’s expression for the inevitable reaction.

Yoongi’s lips parted, mind surely whirring as he processed Jimin’s words.

“Min Jimin,” Jimin said again with excitement, soaking up Yoongi’s shock. “Min—”

There was a crunch of snow underfoot as Yoongi closed the difference, then cold fingers against Jimin’s cheek as he was pulled into an impassioned kiss. Jimin nearly staggered back, gripping Yoongi’s shoulder for leverage as he was wrapped up in the alpha’s embrace. The winter breeze nipped at their flushed cheeks, but Yoongi’s lips against Jimin’s felt so warm.

When Jimin managed to break away, he looked at Yoongi through hooded eyes. “Happy now?”

“Mm,” Yoongi mumbled, pecking him chastely. “When are you going to—”

“Holy shit, it’s the lovebirds!” Someone exclaimed.

Jimin actually did stumble this time, swinging around to spot the source of the familiar voice. “Tae!” He shouted, gaze landing on the other omega, arm linked with Jungkook’s and stalled on the path from his own home to the main territory.

“Welcome back to the world!” Taehyung greeted with a giggle while Jimin hurried toward him. It took an excruciatingly long time to cover such a small distance, but it was worth falling into Taehyung’s open arms.

Jimin held him tightly, taking a moment to scent his friend before pulling away to meet his eyes. “How are you? Have you been eating well?”

“I’m fine, everything’s fine,” Taehyung assured. “And I’ve been eating too much, Chim. It’s hard not to when someone keeps shoving food in front of me. All damn day.” His eyes flickered toward Jungkook.

“Hey, I feel no guilt over that. My actions are justified,” Jungkook stated, hovering close by in case either omega lost their footing. “In my opinion, you’re not gaining enough weight.”

“I’m not supposed to be huge until later on!” Taehyung scoffed.

“You need proper nutrition.”

“And I’m getting it just fine on my own.” He peered at Jungkook for another tense moment.

“Well, I don’t think you look any bigger,” Jimin commented.

“Oh, just wait until we get inside and I can shrug all these furs off. I’ve got such a nice bump now, Jiminie. People keep commenting on it, pretty much every day,” Taehyung sighed, a hint of pride in his expression.

“We really should be getting inside,” Yoongi reminded, hand on Jimin’s back, steering him in the right direction.

Taehyung released Jimin and clung to his arm instead, leading him down a trodden path where it was much easier to walk. Their mates fell into step behind them. Taehyung bumped their shoulders together and smiled at Jimin giddily. “So?”

“So?” Jimin teased in return.

Taehyung pouted. “How was it? How do you feel?”

Jimin hummed and tilted his head. “Good. The first few days were a blur, obviously. But I do remember my heart just feeling very full. Now it’s hard being separated at all. I like it overall, though. Feels like I found a missing piece of my heart.”

“It does feel like that, doesn’t it?” Taehyung replied softly. “After a little while, you have a hard time imagining how it felt before. It’s strange.”

“Mm. I hope I can learn to cope with distance, though. You know I don’t like being dependent on anyone.”

“Of course,” Taehyung nodded. “Your scent’s different, by the way. Wasn’t sure if you’d gotten the chance to notice.”

Jimin’s breath hitched, heart fluttering. “Yeah?”

“Yeah. You smell too much like Yoongi.”

Oh. Jimin tried to quell the small flicker of disappointment in his chest. He shouldn’t have gotten his hopes up so quickly. Even if he was pregnant, he wouldn’t be able to detect it in his scent at this point, anyway. “Ah, right,” Jimin said slowly.

Taehyung’s expression fell a bit. “Something wrong?”

“No,” Jimin swiftly replied. “You’re right. I didn’t notice. My scent’s still mostly me, though.”

Taehyung nodded. “And the house?” He prompted, hoping to lighten whatever mood Jimin had fallen into.

“Honestly, it’s perfect,” Jimin murmured. “It’s so warm and comfy inside. The kitchen’s too big for us not to cook. And it’s all just so personal. He did a really good job, Tae.”

“I’m glad. My Jiminie deserves only the best,” Taehyung snickered.

Jimin had never been more relieved to reach the dining hall. By the time they entered, Jimin’s fingers and toes had gone numb. It was much colder out than he had anticipated. Even if it was still chilly inside, at the very least Jimin was no longer full-body shivering.

Jimin and Taehyung spotted Hoseok and moved to sit at his table. Meanwhile, the two alphas behind them went on ahead to grab food. Across from Hoseok sat Namjoon, Seokjin, and Haeju. Seokjin was feeding Haeju a small clump of rice, face lit up in excitement as the pup slowly chewed.

“Jimin,” Hoseok grinned, motioning him closer. “Nice to finally see you.”

“Hi, everyone,” Jimin greeted, nodding to the wolves sat around him.

“Hey, Seok. I talked to Wheein—” Dasung stopped short in her approach as she noticed Jimin. “Oh, welcome back.”

“Hey, pup,” Jimin replied, eyes widened a fraction. “What’s that about Wheein?”

Hoseok made a furtive glance toward Namjoon, indicating Dasung should shut up for now. Luckily, Namjoon was too distracted by Haeju to catch the exchange.

“Ah, nothing important,” Dasung said swiftly. “Nothing at all. We were just discussing last night’s kimbap.”

“You used to be a better liar, y’know,” Jimin commented, arching a brow. “Hoseok, have you lot been doing anything stupid?”

Hoseok cleared his throat, then lowered his voice. “There is a distinction between mild stupidity and serious stupidity. We’re careful to watch that line.”

“Alright, great,” Jimin said dryly. “I’d say count me in, but I’d like to consider myself somewhat of an intellectual.”

Taehyung muffled a snort of amusement.

“So, uh, where’s your mate?” Dasung asked, a strange intonation to the last word, as if it had left an odd taste on her tongue.

Jimin nodded ahead, Yoongi and Jungkook already on their way back.

Dasung panicked for a brief moment. “Alright, well, if he hears about anything suspicious, just tell him Hoseok’s the mastermind behind it all. I hold no responsibility.”

Jimin arched a brow in amusement. “Sure.”

“Great, thanks,” Dasung rushed, then scurried away.

“I swear, you better not get yourselves hurt,” Jimin muttered to Hoseok before Yoongi was close enough to overhear.

“Have some faith, Jiminie.”

Yoongi sat down beside him and offered his quick greetings to the table. Seokjin finally glanced up from his pup. “Took you long enough,” he said in simple response.

“When it’s this cold out, there’s more than enough incentive to stay at home,” Yoongi countered.

“He eats solids now?” Jimin interrupted, focused on Haeju.

“Yes,” Seokjin giddily replied. “He can walk, too.”

“Barely,” Namjoon corrected. “Two cautious steps at a time.”

“He’s going at his own pace,” Seokjin said. He readjusted Haeju in his lap, facing the pup toward the rest of the wolves around them. “Huh, baby? You’re doing very well for your age.”

Haeju grumbled and reached out for Seokjin’s plate, scooping up more sticky rice to shovel into his mouth.

“I don’t think he cares,” Yoongi said dryly.

“Honestly, who would when you’ve got better things to be concerned with? Like stealing food,” Hoseok added.

“Must be nice being a pup,” Taehyung sighed. “No responsibilities. Sleep whenever you want.”

“You do that now,” Jungkook said.

Taehyung elbowed him. “I thought I needed the rest.”

“Ow, be nice to me. I’m fragile,” Jungkook complained.

Taehyung rolled his eyes, then pinched Jungkook’s cheek. “Are you pouting at me? I’m not sure if I should be endeared or annoyed.”

Jimin tuned out their bickering as his focus zeroed in on Haeju. Jimin rested his cheek against his palm and unintentionally stared, observing as Seokjin bounced the pup in his lap and continued to feed him. Haeju’s chubby cheeks puffed out as he chewed, smiling as his father brought the plate closer.

Jimin wanted to wrench his eyes away. Told himself to stop. There was jealousy festering in his gut, and he knew he shouldn’t feel this way. There was no sense to Jimin’s yearning, no fair reason behind his sudden melancholy. He didn’t have a pup, and that was okay, Jimin told himself. Yet Jimin still felt empty, just as he had for days on end.

He should tell Yoongi. That would be the reasonable thing to do. There was no use in sulking alone. But Jimin just... let it eat away at him.

When Jimin’s gaze flicked up, he met Namjoon’s eyes. Sympathy. Oh god, he knew what Jimin was thinking. Jimin averted his attention, guilt bubbling up within him. He must have been frowning, and at a pup, for fuck’s sake.

Jimin felt Yoongi’s palm on the nape of his neck, then. “Are you okay?” He whispered, detecting Jimin’s distress through their bond.

Jimin inhaled shakily. He nodded. Before Yoongi could question him further, Jimin busied himself with his breakfast. He ate while the wolves around him conversed, busy trying to shake awful, overdramatic thoughts out of his head.

Yoongi’s hand grasped Jimin’s. His thumb rubbed along the omega’s hand. He gently played with Jimin’s fingers, silently supporting him while he otherwise left Jimin be. Jimin shut his eyes and set his utensils down. He took a deep breath, ignoring the world around him. Yoongi threaded their fingers together securely, touch a steady anchor.

It was in these small moments that Jimin couldn’t be more thankful Yoongi had chosen him. That Jimin had chosen Yoongi in return.

☽○☾

“Looks like that’s the last of your files, Min Jimin,” the bookkeeper said warmly. She smiled at Jimin, reflecting his palpable joy.

“Thank you,” Jimin breathed, eyes roving over his name change report for a final time before sliding it back across the desk. According to pack records, Jimin was officially a Min.

“I remember when I filed for a name change,” the woman sighed wistfully as she gathered the stack of paperwork. “Of course, I was in a bit of a rush, eight months pregnant and all.”

Jimin’s smile twitched just the slightest.

“Wanted my whole family to be under the same name. Good on you for getting it done early. Some wolves will forget until months after they’ve mated,” she went on, ending with a chuckle.

“Well, I’ve really got nothing else to do,” Jimin said honestly. “There’s only so many types of breads you can bake before you grow tired of bread altogether.”

“Ah, right. You’re a hunter,” she nodded. “Must be nice, being out of work for a few months.”

“You’d think so. We hunters tend to get restless, though,” Jimin shrugged. “I should probably be getting home.”

“Have a safe trip. It’s getting icy out on the main paths,” she reminded.

Jimin nodded and bid her a pleasant goodbye.

Stepping out of the records office, Jimin nearly bumped into another wolf. He stumbled to a halt as the other uttered a swift apology.

“Oh, Jimin.”

Jimin took a step back and blinked up at Namjoon. “Joon,” he replied, still shaking off his surprise. “You going home, too?”

“Sort of. Gotta pick up Haeju first; Seokjin’s working a little late tonight,” he said. “Since we’re going in the same direction, is it okay if I walk with you?”

“Need me to protect you?” Jimin replied, only half-joking. In practicality, Jimin was probably a better fighter than the pack alpha. Namjoon was admittedly much bigger, however.

Namjoon chuckled. “I’d appreciate it. It can get dangerous out there in the dark. I didn’t expect you to be here in the evening. Or alone at all, really.”

“I told Yoongi I’d be quick,” Jimin said. “Turns out paperwork takes way longer than you’d expect.”

“I have too much experience with it to expect otherwise,” Namjoon said mirthfully. “Paperwork for what?”

“I’m a Min now.”

Namjoon gaped wordlessly.

Jimin rolled his eyes. “People really don’t expect me to change my family name.”

“Wow, yeah. I didn’t see that coming,” Namjoon managed to say.

“What? Doesn’t suit me?”

“It is an odd notion, yes. But I imagine you wouldn’t be doing it if it wasn’t what you truly wanted.”

“Yup,” Jimin replied. He cleared his throat and motioned to the main door. “Shall we?”

Namjoon opened it for him and they stepped out. Jimin’s body tensed against the cold, and he buried his hands within his sleeves. “Fuck,” he muttered. “It’s not even January yet.”

“It’s bound to get worse in the next couple weeks,” Namjoon sighed in agreement. “Especially if the snowfall doesn’t let up.”

Jimin hummed, watching his step as they followed the worn trail ahead. Yellow light in Jimin’s peripheral caught his eye. He stopped and turned to look at the small building to the side—the infirmary.

“Hey, um, I think I’m gonna head in there for a little while,” Jimin said abruptly, gesturing to the infirmary.

“Okay,” Namjoon said slowly. “Should I wait for you?”

“No, I’ll be fine,” Jimin insisted. “As long as you’ll be safe by yourself.”

Namjoon chuckled and nudged him. “I think I’ve made this trek often enough to feel alright about it.” He took a step forward, then halted rather suddenly. “Oh, before I forget. Do you know why skinned animals keep showing up in the dining hall’s food stores?”

Jimin steeled his expression and shook his head. “No clue. How long has that been going on?”

“A week, I’d say. Jin finds it when he goes to work in the morning. Seems a bit suspicious, huh?”

Jimin widened his eyes innocently. “Sounds helpful to me. More meat is good for everyone.”

“You’re sure you don’t know?”

“I’ve been out of commission for a while. Can’t say I’m in the loop these days.” Jimin resisted the minuscule smile quirking along his lips.

Namjoon huffed out a less than amused exhale. “Alright. Maybe someday these hunters will respect my authority.”

“Oh, Joonie. I respect you,” Jimin said in a sweet, high-pitched tone. He managed to draw a snicker out of the alpha.

“Thank you, Jimin. I guess I’ll figure it out on my own,” he said with resignation. “Goodnight.”

“Goodnight,” Jimin replied softly, waiting for him to walk away before setting a short course for the infirmary.

Jimin pushed open the front door to meet an empty room. He ducked his head to peer around the corners, still coming up short. “Jae?” He called, shutting the door behind himself. Jimin fiddled with the hems of his sleeves as he waited. “Jaejae?” He tried again.

He heard footsteps from the back room, so he leaned back on his heels, anticipating as she stepped out into the main space.

“Jimin,” Hyunjae greeted, brows high and hair a mess.

Jimin gestured to her hair. She quickly reached up to pat it down.

“I don’t know how you manage that,” Jimin said sincerely, mirth evident in his tone.

“I run my fingers through it when I’m stressed. You picked that habit up from me, y’know,” Hyunjae stated, pointing at him.

Jimin scoffed. “I don’t do that.”

“Ask anyone. They’ll tell you,” Hyunjae shrugged. She glanced down at her palms, then, nose wrinkled up at the green and yellow stains. “Sorry. I was mashing roots and organizing herbs.”

Jimin snorted. “Haven’t been busy?”

“Thankfully not,” she replied, fetching a towel to wipe her hands off on. “No one’s really been around today, aside from you. What’s up?”

Jimin bit his lip, forgetting this inevitable part of the conversation. “Um,” he started off eloquently.

Hyunjae tilted her head. “Everything alright, pup?” She asked softly.

Jimin stared down at his feet, heart melting at the familiar parental tone. “I don’t know, Ma,” he whispered.

Hyunjae exhaled, brows drawn in concern. “C’mere. Let’s sit down,” she suggested, guiding Jimin to a cot at the back. Jimin followed along instinctively, settling beside her on the cot, shoulders brushing. Hyunjae waited a moment, perhaps allowing Jimin more time to initiate. He wasn’t really sure where to begin. “Do you need to talk your eomma?”

“No,” Jimin sighed.

Hyunjae rested her palm on his knee. “Okay,” she nodded. “Are any of your injuries flaring up?”

Jimin shook his head. “Yoongi’s fine, too. It’s not... it’s not any of that. I—” Jimin’s words simply caught in his throat. He was almost ashamed to admit what had been troubling him. “I think I got my hopes up for something that wasn’t practical.”

Hyunjae hummed. “So, you’re dealing with some disappointment?”

“Yeah,” Jimin said, considering. “But it’s more than that. I keep getting these intrusive thoughts that it’s more than—than something simple. Like, since it isn’t happening now, it won’t ever happen. And I know that it’s a ridiculous thought. Kinda childish, too, assuming everything I want is supposed to happen immediately. But I’ve been so emotional, and it’s really getting to me.”

“Does Yoongi know?”

Jimin leaned into his hands, covering his face. “No. I’m not sure how to tell him. It’s sort of a new thing, and I know it shouldn’t be bothering me this much. And I don’t want to overreact and worry him, too.”

“Right,” Hyunjae murmured. “The wonderful thing about mates, though, is that they tend to know you best. And they love you, no matter what you’re going through.”

“Yeah,” Jimin uttered. “It’s just...”

“Harder in practice,” Hyunjae finished.

Jimin nodded.

She rubbed at his back, letting the silence settle around them. She waited for Jimin to be ready.

Jimin still couldn’t get the damn words off his tongue. Jimin shakily inhaled and threaded his fingers together, trying desperately to work through the clenching beneath his ribs.

Having a thought was one thing. Uttering it aloud made it real.

Hyunjae’s hand was steady on his back, though; as warm as it had been when he was a pup. The alpha had seemed so much bigger back then: confident and unstoppable. It was hard learning that his parents couldn’t solve all the world’s problems. But she was here now, Jimin reminded himself. She was helping now. That’s what mattered.

“I’m not pregnant,” Jimin whispered.

“Okay,” Hyunjae calmly replied. “How does that make you feel?”

“Empty,” Jimin confessed, throat constricting around the single word. “Sad. Useless. Scared.”

“Why does it scare you?”

“Because I’m young. Because I’m off contraceptives. Because I went through an entire heat, and... And nothing. If I can’t get pregnant now, will I be able to at all?”

“It’s not that simple, Min. And I think you’re aware of that,” Hyunjae said softly.

“Taehyung was on contraceptives when he got pregnant,” Jimin muttered. “Jin had his pup within the first year of being mated. What’s wrong with me?”

“Nothing,” Hyunjae said firmly. “You’ve been on contraceptives for years. Your body’s still adjusting. Nothing happens with a snap of your fingers. Fertility is such a complicated matter, Jimin. These things take time. You shouldn’t put such heavy expectations on yourself. It’s unrealistic.

“Everything takes time. You’re not broken, even if it takes a little longer for you.”

A hiccup wracked Jimin’s body, tears wetting his palms. “But I want it. I want it so bad, Jae,” Jimin said, voice cracking.

“I know it’s hard accepting that you may have to wait. But I need you to realize that there’s nothing wrong with you, alright?”

Jimin sniffled and attempted a nod.

“Good. Have patience with yourself. It’s natural you’d be upset over this, especially if you want it that much. Don’t be ashamed of it, though. Have faith that you’re going to be fine, that you’ve got a partner and a family that support you no matter what,” Hyunjae said. “Time will do wonders for an aching heart.”

She paused, then pressed her nose to Jimin’s hair. “I’m gonna be honest with you,” Hyunjae said, as quiet and intimate as Jimin remembered. Jimin knew what that opening phrase meant—this was a special secret between her and him. “You’ll find good things in places you’d never thought to look.

“I stopped searching for a partner long before your eomma came around. I didn’t even think about pups of my own until you stumbled into my life. But I thank every possible deity that you both found me.” She kissed his head. “I love you. And I promise you’re going to be okay.”

“Swear,” Jimin whispered, a small part of himself desperate for an assurance he knew his mother couldn’t realistically provide.

The matter was entirely out of Hyunjae’s hands. Yet, she understood what he needed.

“I swear.”

Hyunjae gave Jimin more time to collect himself. She hugged him for a long while, helped him wipe his tears.

Jimin wasn’t sure how much time had passed when he set out to leave. He felt better, though. The fear festering within had eased, at least for that moment.

Hyunjae guided Jimin to the door, hand on his shoulder. Jimin readied himself before cracking it open, braced for the frigid air. Hyunjae patted Jimin as she let him go, waiting back in the doorway, silhouette lit by the infirmary’s warm, yellow light.

“You’re going to be okay, Jimin. It’s just a hiccup,” Hyunjae reminded as Jimin stepped out into the snow.

Jimin nodded. “Just a hiccup,” he echoed, holding onto those words.

He burrowed into his heavy coat as he walked back to the cabin he was learning to call home. The windows cast a flickering orange onto the gleaming expanse of snow. Jimin was so excited to finally get inside and cuddle up with his mate.

He opened the door to find Yoongi in the kitchen. The scent of their dinner hit Jimin hard. He sighed, shoulders slumping as he shrugged off two layers of coats. “I’m here,” Jimin practically sang. He threw up his arms, expecting a hug.

Yoongi turned toward him, a grin blooming in his expression. “Welcome home. Took a while, huh?”

“The bookkeeper wouldn’t stop talking,” Jimin fibbed.

Yoongi moved toward him swiftly, wrapping the omega in an embrace.

Jimin pressed his nose to Yoongi’s neck, purring in content.

Yoongi hoisted him up, and Jimin wrapped his legs around Yoongi in turn, resting his cheek on Yoongi’s shoulder as he was carried to the kitchen. Yoongi set Jimin on the countertop and remained standing between his legs, arms around Jimin’s waist. 

“Hi,” Jimin hummed, pulling back to brush his nose against Yoongi’s.

“You were gone too long. I forgot how pretty you are,” Yoongi said, smile softening at Jimin’s tired chuckle. He closed the mere inch between them, kissing Jimin sweetly.

Jimin threaded his fingers into Yoongi’s hair. Jimin parted his lips, eager to breathe Yoongi in. The kiss was slow and languid, drawn-out by the both of them. 

Yoongi sucked on Jimin’s lower lip until it was red, chastely kissing him again when he was done.

Jimin reluctantly leaned back, hooded eyes meeting Yoongi’s. Jimin watched as Yoongi’s expression eased into thorough fondness, his heart skipping wonderfully in reply. Jimin inhaled deeply as he brushed his fingers through Yoongi’s fringe.

It was time, he decided. They’d made a vow of honesty, and with all this love in his heart, Jimin was sure they were going to be alright.

“I’ve got something to tell you.”

Chapter Text

Jimin readjusted his grip on the woven basket as he and Taehyung stepped out of the forest shade, overwhelmed by a burst of spring sunlight flooding the clearing sprawled out before them. They emerged into a sea of bright red, breeze barely rustling the dainty stems and freshly bloomed petals.

“The poppies are here!” Taehyung sang, spreading his arms out as he soaked up the afternoon sun. “Blooming a little early this year, huh?”

Jimin hummed. “I kind of figured Hoseok was lying when he said the flowers were out already. Or exaggerating, at least.”

Taehyung was careful to walk through the sparser areas, hesitant to crush any of the poppies. He held a supporting hand under his belly as he tip-toed through his own path, gaze focused below, wide in awe. Jimin hovered close by in case he stumbled. Even if Taehyung was only at the end of his second trimester, Jimin preferred to err on the side of caution.

“So how many are we collecting?”

“Not a lot,” Taehyung mused. “Only the nicest ones. I wanna set them out in the kitchen. It’ll add a pop of color, yeah?”

“Yeah,” Jimin echoed.

“Why don’t we bring some back for you and Yoongi, too? You guys don’t have many decorations.”

“We prefer practicality and comfort over style,” Jimin shrugged. “And I think our huge collection of furs looks nice enough.”

Taehyung huffed. “Sure.”

“That sounded sarcastic.”

“It was.”

Taehyung’s expression lit up and he slowly bent down, his first poppy spotted.

“Careful,” Jimin muttered.

“I’m not that fragile,” Taehyung said with a roll of his eyes. He plucked the stem and straightened himself up, palm over his lower back as he exhaled deeply. “Got it,” he said victoriously, setting the flower into Jimin’s basket.

Taehyung resumed his venture, trekking on ahead while Jimin trailed a step behind.

“You’d be surprised how strong you feel when you’re carrying a pup. Like some sort of protective switch has been set off. I’d be very capable if any of you would just let me do things. I can’t even carry my laundry anymore. Kook’s always fussing. ‘Don’t strain yourself,’ he says. As if that’s possible with him constantly two inches away. Honestly,” Taehyung sighed. “You’ll understand someday, I’m sure.”

Jimin wrapped his arms around his flat stomach. “Uh huh,” he mumbled.

“I’m still shocked, y’know. Two whole heats and nothing, huh?”

“Nothing,” Jimin confirmed, a dullness seeping into his tone. He didn’t want to come off as frustrated as he truly felt. Jimin didn’t really have room to complain anymore—Yoongi had watched him break down enough times by now. “It’s okay. I’m glad to be hunting, and I couldn’t do that if I—I was—” Jimin stopped short, incapable of even voicing it.

Taehyung glanced back at him with evident sympathy.

Jimin shook his head. “It’s okay.”

Jimin held out the basket as Taehyung collected a couple more poppies, staring out at the forest surrounding them all the while. The world wasn’t as quiet as it had been in the winter, yet it felt more serene. The birdsong put Jimin at ease.

As Taehyung bent down yet again, Jimin watched him cradle his belly extra carefully, inhaling sharply at the angle. How nice it must be to feel that pup, Jimin thought. How fulfilling it must be to protect it.

The wind abruptly stopped then, and the chirping around them cut short. Silence strung out, harsher than any tangible noise.

Jimin felt a shiver rising along his skin, instincts on alert, feeling something wrong deep in his core. The birds had abandoned them and the poppies closed up. They felt the illness in the atmosphere just as potently as Jimin.

“Do you hear that?” Jimin whispered.

“What?” Taehyung asked, confused. He wasn’t startled by the sudden shift at all.

“There’s nothing,” Jimin said.

The words didn’t incite any realization in Taehyung’s expression. Yet, a moment later, Taehyung did pause. “Oh, the footsteps?”

“What footsteps?” Jimin questioned, the shrill ringing of a silent world still harsh within his skull. Jimin felt sick. He should go. He should grab Taehyung and run.

Jimin’s feet were rooted to the ground. The poppies wilted below, laying heavy over his shoes. He couldn’t walk, couldn’t move. There was something behind him; without any evidence, Jimin knew. He felt the threat beneath his skin.

“It’s okay,” Taehyung said softly, eyes fixed over Jimin’s shoulder. “We’re safe here.”

Jimin reached out for him, terrified. He didn’t know how to respond. Taehyung’s tone was so firm and sure. Wrong, Jimin thought. There was no safety out here. They were the prey.

How long had they been the prey?

A loud shot from behind, reverberating in Jimin’s memories, old and new.

Jimin frantically checked himself as his body tried to seize up, searching for wounds. He came up short.

Then Jimin’s gaze skimmed up, locking with Taehyung’s wide and glassy eyes.

“Jimin,” he mumbled, both palms splayed over his stomach.

Jimin’s eyes trailed down. His ears were buzzing, heady foggy. He couldn’t process what he was seeing.

There was a growing spot of red beneath Taehyung’s shirt, creeping through the material, soaking Taehyung’s hands as he tried to cover it. Taehyung swayed, shock overtaking him like a rush of cold water.

Jimin wished he had the words to console him. Wished he had words at all. “Tae...hyung...”

Jimin shot up, panic welling beneath his ribs and breathing stammered. Jimin gasped for air, hands quivering as he threw the sheets back. There was sweat along his temples, muscles still stiff from sleep. Jimin couldn’t see a thing in the dead of the night.

Jimin pushed himself out of bed and staggered to the wall, supporting himself as he made his way to the bedroom door. Jimin clung to the frame with white knuckles, peering through the shadow of the hall, determined to make it to the exit, yet unsure how.

His body was slowly kickstarting itself back to life, Jimin’s steps more steady, vision clearing. His head, though, was an entirely separate matter. Behind his eyes were flashing images of Taehyung, bloodied and frightened, too shocked to mourn his lost pup.

Jimin needed to find him.

Floorboards creaked underfoot as he advanced toward the front door. He paused as he passed by a window, momentarily struck with the realization that it was still winter. Snow lay heavy outside, frozen surface gleaming over soft streaks of moonlight. Jimin stared, panic clashing with confusion.

It was spring. It was supposed to be spring. The poppies—

Jimin shook his head, holding off a full-body shudder. He turned toward the exit again, searching for his heaviest furs hung by the door. Jimin clutched the material tight as he shrugged it on, trying to move as fast as his heavy body would allow. Shoes, Jimin quickly thought. There was snow. Right, there was snow.

Jimin’s mind had devolved into a repetition of reminders.

Taehyung, Taehyung, Taehyung. Snow, coat, shoes. Snow, coat—

Jimin gasped as arms encircled him. He struggled around the hold, scent spiked in distress. Jimin needed to leave. Taehyung was hurt. Taehyung could be dying.

“No,” Jimin wailed, wriggling and huffing.

There was a shushing against his ear, the arms around him only closing in tighter. “Calm down, pup,” a rough voice crooned. “You’re alright.”

“Tae,” Jimin uttered. “He needs me. Needs help.”

“He’s fine, Jimin,” the voice insisted. A wave of pheromones washed over Jimin, forcing his limbs to ease up and stuttering heart to calm.

Jimin knew that scent, felt it like a warm comfort in his bones. Mate, Jimin thought. Yoongi.

Once Jimin had physically relaxed, Yoongi turned him around in his hold, one hand moving to gently cup his cheek. “Whatever you saw, it wasn’t real. Look at me,” Yoongi insisted.

Jimin’s eyes widened and lips parted. He clutched Yoongi’s shirt, still scared out of his wits.

Yoongi brushed his thumb along Jimin’s cheek. “It wasn’t real,” he repeated.

“Wasn’t real,” Jimin whispered, holding onto that affirmation with every bit of his desperation.

Yoongi nodded. “Good. Now what happened? Why did you think it was safe to go outside in the middle of the night in January?”

“T-Tae, he was—we were picking poppies, and then everything was quiet. I told him something was wrong, but he didn’t believe me. Then that noise, Yoongi. It was so loud. And there was blood. H-he was so pregnant and—and—”

Yoongi’s expression tensed. He sucked in a sharp breath and pulled Jimin to his chest. Jimin nuzzled into his neck, close to weeping.

“I thought he must be hurt,” Jimin shakily explained.

“He’s not, I promise. I know it feels real, but I’m certain he’s at home, probably fast asleep. It was only in your head. Our minds play with us like that, show us all our worst fears,” Yoongi said, rubbing Jimin’s back. “You’re safe. He’s safe. Everyone is alright.”

“I don’t feel safe,” Jimin mumbled. “Feels like everything we know is just... collapsing on top of us.”

“But it’ll pass. Things change, we find solutions.”

“Do you really believe that?”

Yoongi’s chest heaved with a sigh. He pressed his nose to Jimin’s hair, silence spanning out much too long. “I want to believe it.”

“Not the same thing.”

“I guess I’m trying to convince myself.”

“You’re scared, too. Aren’t you? I’m not alone in this?” Jimin said, voice wavering.

“Of course I’m scared. If I believed in any gods, I’d be praying all the time,” Yoongi replied, words a low rumble in his chest.

Jimin skimmed his fingers over the material of Yoongi’s shirt, sliding his palm between them until it rested over Yoongi’s heart. He felt the steady beating, let it ground him. “No gods?” Jimin whispered. “Not even the moon?”

“Well, the moon didn’t do a great job watching out for my parents.”

Jimin paused, soaking in the solemnity of his tone.

Yoongi noticed how Jimin had tensed in his hold. He pried Jimin away so he could properly see the omega, holding his face carefully and meeting his eyes. Yoongi smiled softly, assuring. “The only god I believe in is you.”

“Yoon,” Jimin sighed, too endeared to argue.

“It’s true,” Yoongi said, leaning in to kiss Jimin’s forehead. The press of his lips was gentle, touch lingering even as he pulled away. “What’s a god, Jimin?”

“A god is... strong. More than that. I think a god is—is powerful. They protect the weak, provide for what they create. A god’s compassionate,” Jimin murmured.

Yoongi brushed his fingers through Jimin’s hair, gaze fixed on the omega like he was the sun itself, bright and warm, no matter how heavy the blanket of night was outside. “If that’s what a god really is, then they’ve got nothing on you.”

☽○☾

Jimin watched Taehyung spin a pup in circles, hands under their arms. The pup squealed and giggled, Taehyung’s grin bright in return.

In late January, snow was still falling heavy and steady, stacking layer upon layer. The wolves of their pack were stuck on their trodden paths, hesitant to step out into the depths of the rest of the land’s snow. Despite the blank white chill of winter outside, the care facility was warm as ever.

Left with nothing to do for the past month, Jimin had been spending most of his days with Taehyung. Taehyung called it practice for when Jimin had pups of his own. Jimin tried to not think too hard about that constant reminder, nor take it personally. Yoongi was the only one he’d been confiding in all too much lately.

His mate was still so patient over the topic, listening to each of Jimin’s worries, responding in kind with overflowing support. There were late evenings that Jimin wondered if he deserved a partner like Yoongi, who held him through all his crying without complaint. Yoongi may not have been thanking the moon, but Jimin surely did—some deity of fate must have led Jimin to a wolf so wonderful and caring.

The pup playing with blocks in front of Jimin tapped his knee, drawing his attention.

“Yes?” Jimin murmured, observing as the pup pointed at her tower.

She was sat down with her legs crossed, adamant she remained in that spot, even once she could stack no higher. She held out a block to Jimin, then pointed at the top. Jimin took it from her tiny grip. He leaned forward and gently set the block on top, hearing her gasp of elation when he set it down neatly.

The pup searched around herself for another block, thrusting it toward Jimin once again.

“Fun having someone else do stuff for you, huh?” Jimin said with a small smile. “If you learn to play people right, you don’t have to do much of anything for yourself. If I use a nice enough tone, my mate will cook for me and bring me my food.” Jimin hummed as she stared at him blankly. “Looks like you’ve got a good start.”

“I don’t think those are the right lessons you’re supposed to be teaching pups,” Taehyung said, standing behind Jimin with a pup on his hip. Jimin swiveled around to look up at him while Taehyung arched a brow.

“I think this is a valuable life lesson.”

Taehyung rolled his eyes.

“Hey, when do we get to leave? I’m getting hungry,” Jimin said, making furtive glances toward the door.

“Technically, you get to leave whenever,” Taehyung replied as he set the pup down on their wobbly feet. “I get off in twenty minutes.” He looked over his shoulder at Yongsun. “I’m off in twenty, right?” He shouted.

“Probably,” Yongsun replied nonchalantly.

“You might as well leave now. There aren’t that many pups here today,” Jimin urged, glancing around and only counting three.

“I’m a responsible worker. Don’t tempt me,” Taehyung sighed.

The front door slammed open, initial push carried by the harsh wind. Jungkook shook snow out of his hair and dusted it off his coat before it could melt. “Hey,” he said as he wrestled the door back shut.

“I can’t leave just yet, baby,” Taehyung pouted as Jungkook approached.

“S’alright. Figured I’d come by anyway. There’s only so much time with my parents I can handle.”

Jimin nodded knowingly. “The winter needs to let up already. I’m tired of doing nothing.”

“You could go out with us sometime, y’know,” Jungkook said suggestively.

“Joon’s getting real suspicious, and I don’t want to be caught up in any of the trouble the lot of you have been stirring up.”

“Oh c’mon, it’s been over a month and he still hasn’t caught us. I think we’re fine.”

“Namjoon’s no idiot,” Taehyung cut in. “And you hunters aren’t always the most careful.”

Jimin gasped in offense. “I’m very careful.”

“Which is why we need you out there with us,” Jungkook prodded.

“Honestly,” Taehyung grumbled. “Leave him out of it. He’s got enough nightmares as-is.”

Jimin stilled, breath caught. Taehyung mentally backtracked, realizing the blunt nature of his words.

“I didn’t—Sorry. Yoongi told me offhandedly, and I...” Taehyung stuttered.

“It’s alright,” Jimin said quietly, folding his hands in his lap. “They’re less frequent now. Not as bad as a couple weeks ago.”

Jungkook looked around awkwardly as the tense air spanned between them. Then a pup sneezed. Taehyung moved over to check on them while Jimin gathered the rest of his wits.

“So what were you doing with your parents?” Jimin asked.

Jungkook rubbed at the back of his neck and shifted his feet. “Putting together some tables. Boring carpentry shit.”

“Are they staying inside these days?”

“They don’t even like going out when the weather’s nice. So, yeah,” Jungkook replied. “They say it doesn’t get lonely holing themselves off, but I still wonder why they didn’t just have more pups. They’re always home anyway, and I think I would’ve liked some siblings.”

“Your eomma couldn’t,” Taehyung commented, stepping away from the pup. He walked up to Jungkook and began fretting with his hair, strands wet and flopping onto his forehead. “She mentioned it while we were having dinner with them last week. I was washing the dishes with her, and we talking about pups, as we tend to do a lot lately. And we got into talking about why you’re an only child.”

“Obviously she’s not infertile,” Jungkook said in confusion.

“Oh, I know. She said it just got hard after you. Nothing really stuck. Apparently she had a couple miscarriages. Not that you would remember; you were too young. Then nothing for the years following, no matter how hard they tried.” Taehyung grasped the collar of Jungkook’s coat and hiked it up higher. “You need to keep your neck warm, especially with bitter winds like that out there.”

Taehyung pursed his lips, hands stilling. “Must be scary, watching your one child go off and be a hunter.”

“You won’t let your pup be a hunter?” Jimin asked.

“Not here,” Taehyung said simply. “Well, there’s not much I could do to stop them, though. We’re basically out of our parents’ hands after presenting.”

“It’s going to be hard to convince them to stay out of the woods when they’re growing up surrounded by hunters, their father included,” Jimin reasoned, just a bit sympathetic. Although he understood Taehyung’s reasoning, Jimin knew he could never bring himself to dissuade his own pups from hunting. It was in the Min bloodline, after all.

Jungkook was harboring a minor frown, watching as Taehyung continued to fiddle with his coat. “Is this something we should be talking about?”

Taehyung hesitated, lip caught between his teeth. “Not now,” he said after a moment. “We have plenty of time to spare.”

Jungkook exchanged a look with Jimin, yet held back any protest he may have had.

Taehyung cleared his throat. “I’m gonna clean up some of these toys, then we can go to dinner, yeah?”

“Sure,” Jimin said. He rose to his feet and nodded toward the door. “If you’re planning on being quick, we can wait outside.”

“Bundle up,” Taehyung reminded, speaking pointedly to Jimin.

“Sure, Eomma,” Jimin retorted as he walked toward his coat hanging on a rack.

Jungkook followed after him and helped Jimin shrug his furs on. Jimin’s body seized up as they emerged into the open chill air, wind already nipping at his cheeks.

“I’m really reconsidering hibernation,” Jimin muttered, stalled on the steps.

“Sounds nice,” Jungkook agreed. “Wanna make snow people?”

“Are you insane? It’s fuckin’ cold enough out here.”

“You gotta enjoy what the season has to offer you.”

“Don’t play optimist.”

“The snow’s really not that bad once you’re numb to it.”

“Sure. I bet it’s not that bad when your fingers turn blue and fall off, either.”

“I think you’re being overdramatic.”

“Have you been asking your pregnant mate to lay around in the snow, too?”

“Nah, I save that for you.”

“God, I’m honored,” Jimin snorted. He burrowed deeper into his coat. “Help me down the steps?”

“Can’t walk on your own?”

“There’s ice.”

“I’m not immune to ice, y’know.”

“Really? I figured alphas were incapable of slipping.”

Jungkook finally chuckled, shoulders hunched as he leaned forward. He brushed his hair back and grinned down at Jimin. “Hey.”

“What?” Jimin replied, arching a brow at him.

“I don’t tell you I love you often enough.”

Jimin blinked, entirely taken aback. “Since when do you love me?”

Jungkook paused a moment before he scoffed. “Brat.” He shook his head. “You’re like a brother, Jimin. You know that. So yeah, I love you. And I get worried about you. So it’s good to... to see you joking around every once in a while.”

Jimin’s expression softened, gaze lingering on the younger. “I know,” he murmured. “And I love you, too. Even if you are a dumbass.”

“Thanks.”

The facility door opened and shut behind them, Taehyung stepping onto the small landing. “What’re you guys doing just loitering around? Afraid of some snow? I thought hunters had no fear.”

Jimin rolled his eyes. “We’re trying to not freeze our asses off just yet.”

Taehyung shrugged. “You acclimate quick,” he said, beginning to descend the steps. Jungkook trailed after him, hovering close behind in case he slipped.

Fretting, Jimin thought. Of course.

They followed the beaten path toward the dining hall, Jungkook and Taehyung’s shoulders pressed together. Jimin stayed close to the taller wolves, hoping they’d block the brunt of the wind. It was always better to travel in small packs.

“Step on my heel one more time, Jimin, and I’m going to toss you like a sack of flour,” Jungkook warned.

“Try it, kid,” Jimin retorted, reeling back a step when Jungkook actually turned around. “You may be bigger, but you’re no stronger,” Jimin huffed, still retreating on unsteady legs.

“Oh, come on, guys. Don’t tease. We’re almost there,” Taehyung cut in. “At least save it until after I have some food in my system.”

Jimin eyed Jungkook warily. “Go on, listen to your mate,” Jimin urged.

Jungkook narrowed his gaze. “Keep your distance.”

“I’ll do what I want,” Jimin nearly replied, yet bit his tongue for the sake of Taehyung and his own ass. He didn’t need to crawl his way out of a mound of snow.

The dining hall wasn’t as busy as normal. Families tended to stay at home and cook for themselves during these colder months. It was a hassle herding children through this terrain, and hard enough to get them all into proper outside attire. Therefore, most of the wolves present were either unmated or middle-aged, pups already moved out of the house.

Jimin liked how peaceful it was that evening. There was barely a line for food, and the chatter remained at a low volume. They grabbed their meals and migrated to a table rather quickly, flopping down with unified sighs of relief.

Taehyung removed his heaviest coat, tight, long-sleeved shirt beneath. His bump was rather visible at this point, and he tended to draw the eyes of the pack. Some of the elder wolves turned up their noses, reminded of Taehyung’s deviation from the norm. Taehyung no longer ducked his head in shame, though. He’d learned to stare back until the opposition broke and averted their gazes.

Taehyung’s face lit up in victory as yet another wolf was forced to look away.

“Headstrong,” Jungkook mumbled, kissing Taehyung’s cheek.

“Thanks, I try,” Taehyung said as he smoothed a palm over the slight swell of his stomach.

Jimin began to pick at his food, making constant glances toward the door. “Yoongi should be here soon.”

“I’m surprised you’ve lasted this long apart. Three hours is impressive,” Taehyung said.

“Mm. I’m really feeling the distance right now, though,” Jimin replied.

“Hello,” Hoseok sunnily announced as he sidled up to Jimin. “How has everyone been wasting this fine day away?”

The rest of the table exchanged glances. “Miscellaneous methods,” Jimin eventually replied.

“These truly are rough times,” Hoseok said. “I resorted to knitting with Taeseob this afternoon.”

“That doesn’t sound too bad,” Taehyung said.

“Four hours. Of knitting,” Hoseok bluntly clarified.

“Oh,” Taehyung said simply, quickly returning to his meal.

“I have a fun tale about a couple nights ago, though.”

“Does this entail a shorter amount of time spent knitting?” Jimin questioned.

“Thankfully, no. It was after a, uh, certain special outing.”

Jungkook was suddenly very occupied with the plate in front of him.

“Okay,” Jimin prompted with growing suspicion.

“So usually we play things pretty safe, and I’m not saying things were any different this time. But apparently some people enjoy late night baking? As a stress-reliever?”

Taehyung dropped his spoon. “You got caught by Jin?”

“Sort of,” Hoseok said with a mild grimace. “It was my turn to bring the kill to the kitchens. Didn’t notice a bunch of the lights were on until it was too late. Jin saw me before I saw him. I was gonna drop the buck and run, but again, he’d already recognize me. I stumbled over some sort of excuse; not much works on him, though.”

Jungkook leaned into his palm. “Is he gonna tell Namjoon?”

“Well, not exactly,” Hoseok replied. “Long story short, we sort of owe him a favor now. And by us, I mean me. But it’s collectively the rest of your fault as well, so if I can’t handle whatever he asks of me, one of you need to step up.”

“We could throw the responsibility onto the pup,” Jungkook suggested.

“Maybe wait until Dasung’s done something to deserve a punishment like that,” Jimin interjected. “Seokjin is not easy to work with.”

“Agreed,” Taehyung muttered.

“What, so do we need to quit going out?” Jungkook inquired.

“Not as far as I know. But we are on thin ice as of now,” Hoseok said.

“You really are dumbasses,” Jimin sighed. “Don’t let any of this get back to Yoongi. It’ll only stress him out.”

“So you’ll keep a secret?”

“I can try.”

Jimin stared down at his food, hoping he wouldn’t need to keep the secret—if he got lucky, the subject wouldn’t come up. It was hard for Jimin to keep things to himself when Yoongi started prodding.

“Your mate’s here,” Hoseok alerted, nudging Jimin’s bicep.

Jimin perked up, watching Yoongi readjust the fur on his shoulders as he walked towards them. Jimin scooted over to allow him room, warmth blooming in his chest as Yoongi quickly settled in beside him.

Yoongi slung an arm around Jimin’s waist and nuzzled into his neck, scenting him deeply after their time spent apart. Jimin’s eyes fluttered closed and he began to purr, leaning into his mate’s touch. Jimin rested a hand on Yoongi’s thigh, craving physical contact, hoping to sate the gnawing hole inside him. Yoongi surely must have been feeling the same.

Yoongi brushed his lips against Jimin’s scent gland, and the omega shivered.

“How have you been?” Jimin uttered.

Yoongi fitted his hand over Jimin’s. “Fine. Fixed that whistling window in the spare room. How about you?”

“Good. The pups were well behaved today. I watched one of them nap for a little while. They’re always cuter asleep,” Jimin murmured.

Yoongi pulled away to meet Jimin’s eyes. Jimin reached up to brush his knuckles along Yoongi’s flushed cheek. “You’re cold,” he observed with a frown. Jimin leaned in and kissed Yoongi’s cheek, trailing gentle kisses across the rest of his face in turn. He finished with quick kiss to the red tip of Yoongi’s nose.

“I don’t think we’ve ever been that grossly domestic,” Taehyung drawled, attention focused on the couple before him.

“You’ll get there,” Jimin said with a shrug.

Jimin slid his plate closer to Yoongi, encouraging him to pick at it as well.

“So, I stopped by Joon’s office on the way here,” Yoongi said, sifting through Jimin’s half-eaten meal. “Apparently the elders think the snowfall’s supposed to lighten up in a week.”

“Why do they think that?” Hoseok asked mirthfully.

“It’s an old people intuition thing,” Taehyung said. “At least, that’s what I’ve heard.”

“Right. Well, if that’s the case, it could signal an overall warming of temperatures. Not to be too hopeful, but if the weather can keep up that trend, we’re thinking hunting could start up again in late February.”

“Really?” Jimin said excitedly. “We don’t have to wait ‘til March?”

“I said maybe. We’ll have to feel it out. And the first few trips would be short, anyway. We gotta figure out which routes are going to be safest before we dive right in. I know not all of you err on the side of intelligence, but I would still like to make an attempt at playing this smart.”

“Is this information we should be keeping to ourselves?” Hoseok asked.

“Pass it around if you want. I don’t really care. It’s pretty far off at the moment, anyway,” Yoongi shrugged.

Jimin grasped Yoongi’s arm and leaned heavily into him until his chest was pressed to the alpha’s shoulder. He liked watching Yoongi talk, observing how his lips wrapped around each syllable, phrases ending in a mild pout. Luckily, Yoongi didn’t mind when Jimin unintentionally started staring.

“—Jimin.”

“Huh?” Jimin breathed, too focused on Yoongi to hear Taehyung calling him. He begrudgingly looked away to face Taehyung.

“Are you gonna stop by again tomorrow?” He repeated. “The pups really do enjoy having you around.”

“Um, maybe,” Jimin said. “I might take a day to lay around. Sometimes I’d rather not brave the cold.” Especially if I have another nightmare, Jimin didn’t add.

“You could hang out with me and Taeseob sometime. We’ll try anything other than knitting,” Hoseok piped in.

“Thanks,” Jimin said evenly, an exhaustion he was previously unaware of settling over him. “I’ll think about it.”

Jimin smoothed his palm up Yoongi’s arm, then nestled his chin atop his shoulder. Jimin felt the content rumble emanating from Yoongi’s chest. “Wanna cuddle tonight,” he mumbled.

Yoongi couldn’t hold back the smile quirking at the corners of his lips. “We do that every night.”

“And?”

Yoongi huffed out a laugh. “Alright. I didn’t have any other plans.”

“Oh, and we can bake a cake tomorrow. With icing,” Jimin said excitedly.

“Whatever you want, Minie.”

Yoongi rested his cheek against Jimin’s hair. Jimin shut his eyes.

Yoongi’s thumb rubbed the back of Jimin’s hand as they walked home. The sky was blanketed in white, stars invisible behind the clouds spanning from horizon to horizon.

“I was thinking, while Joon and I were talking, about how you never got your birthday trip to the coast,” Yoongi stated.

Jimin swung their hands between them, a spark of curiosity igniting within his chest. “Yeah?”

“I know things have been chaotic, then suddenly very uneventful. If the temperature really does warm up in February, maybe we could pack up and spend a day over there?”

Jimin faced Yoongi with a blooming grin. “I’d love that.”

“Good. Then we’ll try to do that,” Yoongi replied, tugging Jimin closer.

Newly fallen snow sank beneath their feet. There was probably only an extra inch today. At this point, it didn’t make much of a difference against the sprawling depths already laid out around them.

Jimin pictured their fireplace at home, wishing he could be inside already and out of these snow-soaked furs. The farther they moved away from the dining hall and the rest of the lit buildings of the main territory, the colder the atmosphere felt. Jimin could feel the darkness creeping up on him like a tangible chill, past his furs and under his skin. He was sure even his arteries would freeze over.

Perhaps it was the looming forest that instilled such a deep discomfort within Jimin. A once familiar and nonthreatening sight now represented a threat that Jimin could not otherwise see. He couldn’t know what exactly was out there, if the predators he dreamt of could be watching him even now. Jimin’s instincts told him that he was too exposed out here. No part of his home was safe any longer.

“Jimin,” Yoongi softly called, hoping to draw his attention.

Jimin couldn’t tear his gaze from the line of whispering pines. They were too close, their home practically nestled into the forest’s edge. How could Jimin build a family when there were monsters lurking so close by? One misstep and something might snatch them right up.

“Jimin,” Yoongi persisted.

Jimin inhaled a shuddering breath. He managed to face Yoongi, eyes widened with evident fear.

“What’s wrong?”

“Nothing. I’m not—it’s not...” Jimin shook his head, head muddied with too many worries.

Yoongi looked past him, out toward the trees. “You’re overthinking things again.”

“I can’t help it.”

“I know,” Yoongi sighed. He tightened his hold on Jimin’s hand while he thought. “When I got scared as a kid, my eomma tried to find ways to distract me.”

Jimin hummed, listening expectantly. He tried to keep his gaze on Yoongi and ignore the tension along his back, creeping along his spine in warning of an approaching threat.

“I couldn’t just fall back asleep if I had nightmares. I’d wake and only work myself up more, listening to the creaking of the house or the wind against the window panes. I’d think every small noise was a monster. So my eomma would find me crying, and she’d sit with me, let me calm down before ever speaking.”

Yoongi took a deep breath. “Then Eomma would tell me stories. Anything to take my mind off whatever I was scared of. Sometimes they were old stories her parents had told her, or new ones she made up on the spot. They were a distraction all the same, though. And I was eventually able to fall back asleep,” Yoongi said quietly.

“I think what we need to work on is finding you distractions. Maybe we’ll bake more, go on walks out in the west. We can draw the curtains at night and read books, try to forget that there’s even a world outside our home.”

Yoongi shifted to face Jimin fully and raised his palm to Jimin’s red cheek, cold skin to cold skin. “We’ve only got so much time to be here, to be together. I know it’s hard to shake off the worries, but we can’t waste all our time mulling over the things we just can’t help.”

Jimin nodded, hooked on Yoongi’s words like a lifeline. “We can learn how to knit,” Jimin said, voice wavering.

Yoongi smiled. “Sure.”

“A-and we can spend hours in bed, kissing and hugging or—or doing nothing,” Jimin continued, feeling a new swell of hope. “We can reorganize that spare room. We can get new drapes! Maybe a red material. Something sturdy, yet soft. A-and we can search through your parents’ novel collection. There could be stuff for kids that they kept.” Jimin paused, breath fanned out before him in a wisp of fog. “And when the time’s right, when my body will let me, we’ll have pups to take care of.”

Yoongi nodded, smile warm. “Of course. We’ll have pups,” he murmured, reflecting the same hope Jimin felt heavy beneath his ribs.

Jimin blinked through the tears gathering in his eyes. He swallowed a lump of emotion in his throat. “Thank you,” he whispered.

Yoongi held up their joined hands and kissed each of Jimin’s fingers with slow intention. “This is what I’m here for, Min. You don’t ever need to thank me.”

Jimin exhaled shakily. “Then accept my love, because I really do love you so much, Yoon.”

“I know,” Yoongi said, glancing at him a bit cheekily. “I love you, too.”

Jimin stepped closer and tilted his head, temped to press himself to Yoongi’s chest. Jimin observed the alpha for a long moment and leaned back on his heels, swaying. “Can you kiss me?”

Yoongi’s thumb trailed down the soft slope of Jimin’s cheek and brushed over his upper lip, down until he could press the digit to Jimin’s plush bottom lip, mesmerized by the sight. “You know you don’t have to ask.”

“But I wanted to,” Jimin mumbled, shivering as Yoongi’s thumb pushed down harder.

“We should get home first,” Yoongi replied, heart not entirely in it.

Jimin closed in until they were near enough to brush noses. Yoongi slowly retracted his hand, inhaling in expectation. Jimin’s lips ghosted over Yoongi’s, his hand sneaking between them until he could lay his palm flat against Yoongi’s chest. Steadied by the weight beneath his touch, Jimin inched forward and sealed them in a kiss, action slow and sensual.

Kissing Yoongi forced Jimin’s thoughts to the back of his head. Finally, he could feel some relief, engulf by the scent and sensation of his mate.

When the kiss grew hotter, chaste movements devolving into open mouths and gasps, Jimin abruptly pulled away. Yoongi exhaled, eyes still shut.

Jimin’s hand skimmed lower, stopping at Yoongi’s abdomen. Jimin’s lips curled into a smile. “Can you catch me?”

He heard Yoongi’s breath hitch, then turned tail and ran. Jimin felt a giggle bubbling up in his chest as he dashed toward the familiar silhouette of their cabin. His body felt light, free of his previous worries for just this moment. He didn’t even think to glance at the woods beside him.

Jimin could hear and sense Yoongi closing in behind him by the time he neared their front steps. Jimin’s adrenaline spiked with excitement, something instinctual lighting a fire in his belly.

Jimin hopped onto the first step, moving faster once he was on solid ground rather than packed snow. He lurched for the door, hand just closing around the knob and turning when he felt a pair of arms circling his waist.

Jimin gasped as he was pulled against Yoongi’s chest. He lost his footing and fell limply into his mate’s hold, left breathing heavily while Yoongi’s grip only tightened. Yoongi nosed along Jimin’s neck while the omega came down from his high, scenting Jimin with a reverberating growl in his chest.

Jimin clutched Yoongi’s hands for leverage as firm kisses were pressed to the flush skin of his neck. Yoongi left an open-mouth kiss against Jimin’s mating mark that had Jimin preening.

“Inside,” Jimin huffed, the door cracked from Jimin’s attempt to fully open it.

Yoongi shifted them around to shoulder it open the rest of the way, slamming it shut behind them. He released Jimin, only to corner him against said door, grip firm on his hip.

Yoongi kissed along Jimin’s jaw, the omega’s eyes fluttering closed as he was engulfed in the house’s warmth and the comfort of their combined scents. Jimin slung his arms around Yoongi’s shoulders, lax under his mate’s care.

Yoongi sucked marks onto Jimin’s neck, frustrated when he couldn’t even reach the omega’s collarbone. They both began to shrug off their outer layers. Before Yoongi could return to his ministrations, Jimin clutched at Yoongi’s shirt.

“Off?” He quietly prompted. Yoongi stared at him for a drawn-out moment. Jimin knew he must be a sight to behold, lips puckered and red, hair tussled by the wind, and cheeks dusted with a bright blush.

Yoongi quickly tugged the shirt off and delved right back in to kiss Jimin, deep and languid. Jimin moaned against him, fingers skimming along the alpha’s arm, up to his shoulder. His felt the raised skin of Yoongi’s scar. He paused.

Yoongi pulled back when he noticed Jimin had stopped responding. He watched Jimin through hooded eyes, took in the omega’s hesitant and tensed expression.

“Doesn’t hurt, right?” Jimin whispered. He knew the wound was fully healed, yet it was still so gnarled and pink. Too fresh for comfort.

“No,” Yoongi replied. “Hasn’t in a while.”

Jimin exhaled, chest heaving with the action. “‘M sorry.”

Yoongi slid his hand along the curve of Jimin’s waist, touch gentle and soothing. “For what?”

“Not being able to protect you,” Jimin admitted weakly.

Yoongi shook his head. “Don’t,” he said firmly. “Don’t ever think this is your fault.” Yoongi grasped Jimin’s chin, urging his attention away from the scar. Another distraction. “Look at me,” he murmured.

Jimin did.

Yoongi kissed his nose, then his cheek. “Don’t think about it.” He kissed Jimin’s lips, lingering before he pulled away. “Just stay in this moment with me.”

Chapter Text

Jimin gripped Jungkook’s bicep and hitched the alpha’s upper body over his shoulder. He steeled his stance and shifted his weight, heaving Jungkook up and over, tossing him to the slush-laden ground before them. Jungkook landed with a grunt.

“Size doesn’t matter much if you know what angle to go at it from,” Jimin stated, rolling out his shoulders with a sigh. He glanced at Dasung to make sure she was retaining his explanation. “I imagine few of your possible attackers would be smaller than you, so keep that move in mind. Even as an omega, you can still gain the upper hand.”

Jungkook staggered back to his feet, grimacing at his soaked coat. “When is this stuff gonna melt already?”

“Could be a couple more weeks,” Hoseok said, seated in his own makeshift clearing not far from them. He picked at the wilted grass. “I mean, it’s already melting somewhat. That’s why it’s so gross and... wet.”

“Snow’s always wet. It’s water,” Jimin said bluntly.

“You know what I mean.”

Jimin rolled his eyes. “Dasung, why don’t you give it a try now?”

“Can’t we switch out? Let Seok be the test dummy?” Jungkook said, wringing his wrist. “My back already hurts.”

“Mated life has made you weak. All you do is sit around and eat the sweets Taehyung bakes for you,” Jimin chastised, poking’s Jungkook’s stomach.

Jungkook swatted his hand. “Like you’re one to talk.”

“Evidently, I can still body you.”

“If I’d known it was a real fight—”

“Focus,” Yoongi droned, walking up to them with his arms crossed. “You’re out here to train, not bicker.”

“He started it,” Jimin said quickly.

Jungkook threw his hands up in exasperation.

“They’re both active participants,” Hoseok clarified.

“Snitch,” Jungkook and Jimin said in unison.

“I don’t care. Jungkook, just get thrown around a few more times. It’s not that hard,” Yoongi said with a frown.

Jimin held up a palm to cover his smirk. “Yeah, Kookie. It’s not that hard.”

“Jimin,” Yoongi interrupted, signaling him over.

Jimin raised a curious brow and walked around his group to reach Yoongi. They turned their backs on the others, Yoongi’s knuckles brushing against Jimin’s hand. Jimin’s gaze flickered between the trees ahead and the mild frown adorning his mate’s lips. Jimin nudged him, then properly grasped his hand.

“What?”

“I’m thinking about talking to Joon,” Yoongi slowly started. “Maybe we should be teaching self-defense to more than just new hunters.”

“Do you think that suggestion would be alarming?”

“That’s what’s got me hesitating,” Yoongi said, brows drawn. “It would be a bit sudden. But watching you train the pup has got me thinking about the rest of the omegas. I know not many stray outside the main territory, but—”

“There’s always that chance,” Jimin said. “Yeah, I understand. When would we even do that? The conditions aren’t exactly the best right now. It’s hard stumbling around in slush.”

“Sometime before we start hunting again,” Yoongi shrugged. “So it’d have to be in the next two or three weeks. Which we could manage if the weather continues to warm up.”

Jimin shrugged. “I’m open to training others, but yeah, you’re gonna need to talk this over with Namjoon first.”

Yoongi exhaled and nodded, already exhausted over the notion. “I’ll check his office, then.”

“Now?”

“I’m sure you can handle this. It’s just Dasung.”

“And the other pups in my team,” Jimin corrected.

Yoongi smirked and squeezed Jimin’s hand. “Fair.” He leaned in and kissed Jimin’s cheek. “You’ll be fine, though. Just keep the bickering at a minimum.”

“I can try,” Jimin mumbled.

Yoongi released his hold on Jimin and stepped away. “I’ll see you later, alright?”

Jimin blew him a kiss.

Taehyung watched Jimin pour himself a full glass of wine, red surging up nearly to the rim.

“That’s a lot.”

“Thank you.”

Taehyung tapped the countertop and sighed. Jimin shifted to face him, glass in hand, and took a sip.

“What, Taehyungie? Jealous you can’t drink?”

“Not really. What about you?”

“What about me?”

“Are you jealous?”

Jimin paused in raising his class, grip tightening around the cup. “I hear you’re supposed to avoid touchy subjects during get-togethers.”

“You look tired, Jimin,” Taehyung said bluntly. “You can’t keep lying about the nightmares. I know they’re bothering you.”

“I’ll be fine.”

“Have you talked to a medic?” Taehyung asked, voice pitching lower.

Jimin scoffed. “What good is a medic gonna do? Even if I get something to help me sleep deeper, it’s not gonna help my head.” Jimin pressed his tongue to the inside of his cheek, lingering on the bitter tinge of alcohol. “Why do our minds fuck with us like this? The worst dreams are the ones where I’m pregnant. So I guess I really shouldn’t be jealous of you, if these nightmares are any omen of what could happen.”

Taehyung shook his head. “That’s ridiculous. They hold no ground in reality—”

“They feel real,” Jimin said quietly. “I wake up convinced it’s spring, summer. Convinced you’re out in some clearing, bleeding. Or I’m...” Jimin stopped, raised his glass to his lips again. Small distractions, he reminded.

“Yoongi knows, right?”

“About some of them,” Jimin shrugged. “It’s hard to keep explaining it when they only get worse.”

“I think you need a break,” Taehyung said firmly.

Jimin’s gaze flickered up to him. “From what? I’m not working. Haven’t been for too long. All I’ve done in the past few days is train omegas.”

“A break from here,” Taehyung clarified. “I think the territory is getting to you. You mentioned Yoongi’s interest in going to the coast. You should take the vacation. Sure, it’s still cold out, but you could make the trip at this point. It’s almost mid-February—the nights aren’t as bad and snow hasn’t fallen for a while.”

Jimin took another long sip. “You really think that would help?”

“A change of setting for a night or two could really clear your head,” Taehyung nodded.

Jimin hummed, considering. “Yeah,” he said to himself. “Yeah, maybe.”

The flicker of kitchen candlelight cast shadows on Taehyung’s face, orange and yellow hues catching in his shiny dark hair. He looked warm, from the minor flush to his cheeks, to the snug sweater hugging his upper body. There was a prominent rise on his stomach, seemingly growing every time Jimin saw him.

“How’s the pup?” Jimin asked, noting how quickly he’d downed half his wine.

“Fine. Nothing too exciting’s going on. My back hurts. My feet hurt. No matter where I sit or lay, nothing’s comfortable. It’s great. I’d definitely recommend it.” Taehyung paused, then brightened. “Oh, they have been kicking, though. Usually when I’m trying to sleep. Not the most convenient, but it’s nice knowing they’re doing okay in there. Kook can’t feel it yet, but soon, I think.”

“That’s exciting,” Jimin murmured. “You’re over halfway there.”

“Close to two-thirds, actually,” Taehyung corrected.

“Are you ready to deal with a tiny person?”

Taehyung snickered. “I guess. I can’t say I’ll be any more ready when the time comes.”

“Do you guys have a nursery already?”

Taehyung rolled his eyes. “Kook’s parents had it set up before I even moved in.”

“Good. You’re at least somewhat prepared, then. And names?”

“Nope. We’ve been putting that decision off. We might wait until last minute, honestly. Maybe we’ll mull it over for a while, make a list, then pick a name when they’re actually born. I feel a pup’s name should be based on how they look.”

Jimin arched a brow. “Really? Do you think I look like a Jimin?”

“Now you do. Not sure what you looked like as a newborn, though,” Taehyung said. They exchanged a look before devolving into snickers.

“You’re ridiculous.”

“Yeah? I can be the fun parent.”

“God, that leaves Kook to be the responsible one.”

“What a concept,” Taehyung said, shaking his head. “Should we go check on them?”

“I can’t imagine it would be too easy to set fire to our furniture,” Jimin joked.

“Oh, sorry we couldn’t do this dinner thing at my place, by the way,” Taehyung interjected. “It’s an absolute mess. I’ve tried to clean up, but my nesting instincts make the process physically hurt.”

“It’s fine. It’s a little strange having guests in here for the first time, but I think we’re doing well so far.”

“I don’t understand how some wolves do this all the time. Even having only you over was a stress for me. Not that you’re a stress, but...” Taehyung worried his lip, trying to articulate what he was feeling. “It kinda feels wrong having other wolves in your home, where your pups sleep. It’s supposed to a safe space, y’know?”

“Yeah, I think I get what you mean. I don’t really have anything to protect in here, but I’m sure if I did, I’d feel that, too,” Jimin replied. “I don’t know, my eomma always seemed fine inviting people in.”

“It was mostly me and the Mins, though. I figured we were family.”

Jimin hummed. “True.” He set his glass down, near empty, feeling a buzz under his skin, passing through his arteries. He skimmed his palm over the countertop and stepped toward the edge of the kitchen.

Taehyung fell into step behind him, the two wandering back to the living room full of hushed chatter. Yoongi and Jungkook had laid out a map on a table, both hunched over it attentively.

Jimin sighed. “I leave you for ten minutes, and you resort to talking about work?”

Yoongi’s attention snapped up. “It’s just hunting routes,” he defended.

“Do you really have nothing else to discuss?” Jimin prompted. “Nothing in common? What about your hopes and dreams?”

Yoongi scrunched his nose. “What?”

“Yoon, I told you we wouldn’t be talking about hunting tonight,” Jimin said.

“We made it through dinner,” Jungkook offered.

“What could possibly be so important with weeks left to go?” Jimin asked, crossing his arms.

“We’re considering how far west our range can stretch this season,” Yoongi said.

Jimin frowned. “There’s not much good out west.”

“Nothing better too far east, either,” Yoongi somberly reminded.

Jimin stepped over and reached out to grasp the edge of the map. He began to silently roll it up, Yoongi reeling back in surprise.

“Seriously?”

“Yes, seriously. What was it you were saying about distractions?”

Yoongi clamped his mouth shut, quiet for a few long moments. “That’s not what I meant.”

“Yet that’s how I’m interpreting it,” Jimin retorted. “How about we do something fun? Like play a card game?”

“Cards?” Jungkook echoed soddenly.

Jimin squinted at him. “What, do you have a better idea?”

“Confess or Shot,” Taehyung spoke up.

Jimin spun around to look at him in surprise. Truth or Shot was a dorm game, usually played during late nights after celebrations. It was an easy and stupid way to get drunk. Wolves would ask each other questions, and either have to answer or drink. Fairly simple.

“You can’t drink, though,” Jimin said.

“Kook can take my shots for me,” Taehyung said. He glanced at his mate pointedly.

“Uh, sure,” Jungkook said slowly.

“Yoon?” Jimin urged.

Yoongi shrugged. “As long as we cut it off when the bottle’s empty.”

“Fair enough,” Taehyung agreed. “Let’s get the alcohol.”

Minutes later, they were sat in a circle on the rug, a bottle and a small glass set in the center. Jimin rested back on his palms. “So?”

“I’ve got one,” Taehyung volunteered. “Kook, did you do the dishes this morning?”

Jungkook swiftly eyed the bottle, tempted. “No,” he grumbled.

Taehyung grimaced. “It’s been two days.”

“I was tired.”

“That’s always your excuse.”

Jimin cleared his throat. “It’s Kook’s turn now.”

“Fine,” Jungkook huffed. “Jimin, did you steal my toast when I got up for seconds last week?”

Jimin balked. “Of all the things you could ask me.”

“I need to know. It’s been eating away at me,” Jungkook dramatically replied.

Jimin rolled his eyes. “Alright, yeah. I ate it. Of course I would—you left it just lying around.”

“For less than two minutes!”

Jimin raised his chin and averted his gaze. “Tae, did Seokjin really confiscate my soju stash four years ago?”

“You’ve been sitting on this for four years?” Taehyung drawled.

“You’re damn right I have.”

Taehyung tapped his thigh in consideration. A pause. “Kook, drink.”

“Oh, great. So it begins,” Jungkook groaned, uncapping the bottle and pouring himself a shot.

“You basically just confirmed my suspicions,” Jimin said with a disappointed shake of his head. “I trusted you.”

“I’m in the clear. I don’t have to tell you shit,” Taehyung retorted. He nodded to Yoongi. “Here’s a fun one. How old were you when you had your first kiss?”

Yoongi blinked owlishly, taken aback. “Um,” he stuttered. Yoongi reached out for the bottle, but Jimin quickly stopped him.

“Oh, no. I want them to hear this,” Jimin said, knowing Yoongi had kept this information very secret for a long while. He nudged his mate.

Yoongi slumped back. “I was twelve.”

“And who was it with?” Jimin prompted.

“I answered the question.”

“C’mon, Yoon.”

“I don’t know why this is so amusing to you,” Yoongi grumbled. He averted his eyes. “Seokjin.”

“What?” Taehyung exclaimed. “No fucking way.”

Jimin snapped a palm up to his mouth to muffle his giggles. “It’s way too funny, huh,” he gasped out.

“And you guys never talked about it?” Taehyung said.

“We were kids, and it was stupid. That’s the end of it,” Yoongi insisted. “Don’t you ever bring it up around him. He almost smacked Jimin for joking about it once.”

“I always assumed Jin’s first kiss was during his mating ceremony,” Jungkook said.

“Honestly, yeah,” Taehyung agreed. “God, that’s weird.”

“I know. Moving on,” Yoongi said pointedly. “Jungkook, how’d you break your arm three years ago? You said it was during training, but I very much doubt that.”

Jungkook exhaled heavily. “I really want to skip this. But I really don’t want to go home drunk.”

“It can’t be that embarrassing,” Jimin said.

“I... fell out of a tree.”

“You fell out of a tree when you were sixteen?”

Jungkook buried his face in his hands. “Yes.”

“Okay, that is embarrassing,”

“Whatever,” Jungkook said, voice muffled. “Tae, what did my mother tell you while you two were alone last time we visited?”

Taehyung looked at him sympathetically. “Oh, sweetie,” he crooned. “Take a drink.” Taehyung switched his attention to Jimin. “Chim, have you ever had sex outside of a heat cabin or your own home?”

Jimin was close to replying no, when he cut himself off. “Wait, people do that? Where?”

Taehyung exchanged a look with Jungkook. “Places,” he said ominously.

Jimin brushed his hand through his hair with a mild frown. “Define sex.”

Taehyung snorted. “Seriously?”

“I can’t answer honestly if you don’t give me some definition.” Jimin could feel Yoongi’s tense silence radiating off of him. His head was definitely going to the same place.

“I don’t know. Everyone defines sex differently. I’ll just broaden it to a sexual act.”

Jimin pressed his lips into a tight line. He waited a moment before reaching for the shot glass. He awkwardly cleared his throat as he poured himself a drink. Although Jimin would never admit it, there may have been an incident of a blowjob in the woods.

“Okay,” Taehyung said slowly. “Good to know.”

Jimin winced at the bitter taste, then relaxed his shoulders. He faced Yoongi, a new question on his tongue. Yoongi returned the attention with apprehensive curiosity. “Yoon,” Jimin began, “When did you know you wanted to mate me?”

Yoongi didn’t seem to have expected that inquiry, brows drawn.

“And don’t say since we were pups. I mean for real,” Jimin clarified, a tipsy thrum in his veins and a nice haze inside his head.

“Alright,” Yoongi said, still mulling in thought. “If I have to point to one specific moment, it was before we were courting.”

Jimin tilted his head, drawing a blank as to what Yoongi could be referring to. He figured the concept only got serious for Yoongi once they were well into a relationship. At least, he’d hoped so, considering how long it took himself to be alright with the notion of mating.

“It was during your early training, when you had to spar to learn basic fighting techniques. I didn’t believe Hoseok when he told me how quickly you’d taken him down. Even when it was my turn to fight you, I assumed it wouldn’t be all that hard, so I went easy on you. You were smaller and younger.” Yoongi paused. “And yeah, an omega. But I guess I didn’t think enough about how much you’d been training, even outside of work.”

Jimin was starting to reform the memory. A lot of those early days were a blur of long hours and tireless nights, learning how to track scents and hold off any type of opponent. Jimin had thrown himself into his training with complete dedication, determined to be the best hunter he could become.

“Under a minute in, and you slipped up my footing,” Yoongi continued with a small, reminiscent smile. “Before I could really process it, you had me on the ground. I was winded and you were just crouching over me with this huge, proud grin. I could barely breathe, was still shocked, but I knew—if my mate was gonna be anyone, it was you.”

☽○☾

Yoongi sat at the edge of their bed, rubbing sleep from his eyes as Jimin flitted around the room, collecting clothes to stuff into his bag. Jimin hummed to himself as he wandered about, excited to set off.

“Yoongi, have you packed?”

“Nn,” Yoongi grumbled, hunching forward as he yawned.

“Put on a coat.”

Jimin pulled out his thickest fur, a heavy black bear pelt, and shook it out. He returned to Yoongi, alarmed at the lack of a response. Jimin stopped in front of him and threaded his fingers through Yoongi’s mussed hair.

“Did you sleep alright?” Jimin asked, brows drawn in concern.

Yoongi hugged Jimin’s waist and pressed his cheek to his stomach. “Yeah.”

“You seem more tired than usual. Should we reschedule?”

“No,” Yoongi sighed. “All these meetings with Joon have just been stressful. I think it’s been affecting my quality of rest. But I’ll be alright. I know you really want to go to the coast—”

“Yoon, it can wait if you’re not up to it,” Jimin said firmly. “You know I care more about your well-being.” Jimin brushed the fringe off Yoongi’s forehead and pressed a gentle kiss there. “The ocean’s not going anywhere.”

Yoongi pulled him closer. “Thank you,” he murmured. “We’re still going, though. This will be good for the both of us.”

Jimin rubbed his thumb along Yoongi’s cheek. “Mm. Then let me find you a coat.”

Yoongi reached up to grasp Jimin’s hand. He kissed the omega’s palm, then his knuckles, touch feather-light.

“Yoonie,” Jimin crooned. “Poor, tired alpha. Always so sweet.”

“Do you think the stars will be brighter out there?” Yoongi whispered, not missing a beat.

“They are every time,” Jimin said, shutting his eyes as he felt Yoongi’s lips against his skin once more.

They didn’t travel in their wolf forms like usual. They spent the trip west looking at the waking world around them, from dripping icicles to sprouts of new greenery. There were a few squirrels scuttling through the barren branches. Jimin was anxious for spring to soon arrive.

The air was chilled, but there was a noticeable lack of wind, making the winter trek a little more bearable. Yoongi tucked Jimin’s coat up to his chin each time it slipped down too far. Jimin didn’t even have the opportunity to readjust his furs for himself with Yoongi constantly fretting. Jimin merely clung to his side, chest pressed to Yoongi’s arm as they walked the long and familiar path to the ocean.

Five hours drifted by as Jimin pointed out just about everything they passed, some landmarks familiar, others new amidst the setting of the season. Jimin felt excitement bubbling within him as their path sloped upward, limbs jittery and heartrate increasing. They would be reaching the cliffs soon. Jimin was sure to hear the faint crash of waves any minute.

He barely paid any attention to the ache in his legs or the numbness of his fingertips.

A far-off roaring resounded in Jimin’s ears, and he stopped mid-stride. A grin slowly crept into Jimin’s expression. He grasped Yoongi harder and shook him. “Yoon, I hear it,” Jimin gasped. “God, it’s been so long.”

“Almost two years, huh?”

Jimin nodded, then started to tug Yoongi along, incapable of standing idle any longer. As they advanced, the forest thinned around them, a break in the trees visible up ahead.

Jimin had expected white skies and foggy terrain, a layer of mist hanging over the ground and water. The only fog he found, however, was from the warm breath fanning out before him. The skies were astoundingly blue, precipitation come and gone.

There was less snow on this terrain, only patches left over from the earlier days of heavy winter. Jimin only had to watch out for stray roots and the beginning of loose sand as they rushed up the crest of land.

Finally, they emerged from the dark blanket of trees, stopping near the rocky edge of a towering cliff. Out below them was an expanse of glittering sea, hue blue and deep.

Waves crashed many feet below, white caps surging into rock and sand, foaming as the tide retreated back in the waves’ wake.

A hint of wind carried the ocean mist toward them, salt water drying on their flushed cheeks. Jimin took one last moment to gaze around the scenery he had missed so dearly, eyes focused on the blurred horizon stretched out so far away.

“Let’s go down and see how cold the water is,” Jimin gasped, grin still achingly wide.

Yoongi chuckled at his mate’s palpable excitement. “You’re gonna freeze your ass off.”

“I don’t care,” Jimin shrieked, guiding them to the left, down the slope of sparse grass and sea-worn rocks formations.

“Don’t let go,” Yoongi warned, readjusting their position to grip Jimin’s hand. “It could get slippery.”

They had an even harder time walking when they reached the sand, footing unsteady atop the rolling dunes. The wet sand farther along was heavier and more packed down, however, and Jimin could finally break into a safe jog until he hit the ever-shifting waterline.

Jimin bent down and stretched out his fingers toward the water surging forward. His fingertips grazed the foamy surface, then sunk into the frigid and clear layer below. Jimin hissed and instinctively flinched back. Yoongi laughed at his swift reaction.

“I should take my shoes off,” Jimin said.

“Jimin,” Yoongi just about exclaimed. “You were wincing at the temperature. Honestly.”

“You gotta feel it between your toes, Yoon,” Jimin insisted.

“How about we set up our stuff, yeah? Then decide whether this decision of yours is very stupid or extremely stupid.”

Jimin snorted. “Fine.”

He followed along as Yoongi tugged him back across the beach, eyes on the sky and the rocky alcoves not far off. “We should go looking for tidepools.”

“Okay.”

“And caves.”

“Tomorrow morning, when the tide’s low.”

“If it was summer, we could go cliff-diving.”

“Much too cold for that now.”

“I know,” Jimin sighed.

They stopped at the short slope of land leading to sand. Yoongi dropped his bag, and Jimin quickly set his down alongside it.

“We can pitch the tent here. The water won’t reach this far up, and the trees will allow some cover so we’re not sleeping out in the open.”

“Don’t want to be vulnerable at the hands of any seagulls,” Jimin sarcastically added.

Yoongi glanced up to smirk at Jimin. “I was thinking along the line of crabs.”

“Why?”

Yoongi pinched Jimin’s side then, and Jimin stumbled away with a squeal.

“Rude!” Jimin said with mock offense.

Yoongi merely snickered and dug into his bag to begin setting up. He unrolled the tent while Jimin dug around for their stash of furs.

“I brought blankets so we can stargaze,” Jimin said, back to his giddy tone. “The comfiest ones.”

“From off our bed?”

“Maybe,” Jimin hummed. “Don’t worry. I’ll make sure to get all the sand off after.”

Yoongi pulled out the sticks to pitch the tent, working off muscle memory while Jimin laid out their supplies. “I’m gonna make a real nice bed in there.”

“Putting those nesting skills to use?”

“Yup.”

Jimin stepped back and folded his hands in front of himself, idling. He watched Yoongi finish with the tent, ensuring the makeshift structure was sturdy enough to hold up through any winds they might have. They’d only be staying for one night, but Yoongi was big on safety.

Jimin stepped out of his shoes and tip-toed over while Yoongi was still distracted. Yoongi straightened up and peered at his handiwork one last time. Then Jimin shoved him. Yoongi stumbled, struggling to regain his balance and wits. Jimin laughed and dashed off, feeling giddy and free for the first time in ages.

The ground was a little cold beneath his bare feet, but so smooth and familiar. The closer he ran to the tide, the more he could feel the ocean spray on his numb cheeks. He could smell salt in the air and feel a faint breeze through his hair. Jimin couldn’t put his joy to words.

Jimin thought he had quite a lead on Yoongi, so he was overtaken with surprise when he was yanked back and lifted, swung around in a wide circle. Jimin shut his eyes and clung on the arms around his waist. He fell back into Yoongi’s chest when he was lowered down once again, out of breath from his run.

Yoongi left him no time to recover, smattering Jimin’s red cheeks with kisses. “You’re such a brat,” he mumbled against Jimin’s skin. Jimin squawked when Yoongi began to tickle his sides.

“Not fair!” Jimin huffed out between giggles.

“Seems fair to me,” Yoongi said with a grin.

Jimin’s legs collapsed beneath him, Yoongi’s arms the only force keeping him up. Jimin was breathing heavy by the time Yoongi stopped his tickling. Jimin rested his head back and remained limp in his hold. “Can we go find tide pools now?”

Jimin spent hours with his fingers in puddles, exploring the crevices of old and beaten rock formations. Yoongi kept an eye out for the tide and any sneak waves while Jimin explored. Jimin excitedly pointed out large starfish clinging to stone surfaces. He touched the stingers of anemones, giggling when they folded in on themselves. “Yoongi, you try,” Jimin urged over and over.

Jimin was especially fond of the little fish caught in sunken holes in the rocks, thrown in by high tides and violent waves. They flitted about while Jimin crouched above, merely watching the tiny creatures and their glittering, colorful scales.

Although the waters and air were cold, Jimin didn’t pay much mind to how the temperatures were affecting his body. Yoongi had to eventually coax Jimin away and back to their camp, where they soon crafted and lit a bonfire.

They went on a short hunt and brought back a rabbit for dinner, cooking it while the orange sun sunk lower against the purpling sky. When it reached the line of the horizon, the bright sphere was seemingly punctured, red spilling out onto the shining expanse of sea before it. The last glimpses of the sun wavered, casting every warm hue along the earth before sinking into the clutches of the night.

A navy blue overtook the sky, enveloping the two wolves in darkness. Yoongi stoked the fire and Jimin gathered their blankets. They moved to a flat spot in the sand not far from their bonfire. Jimin laid out the blankets, and the two rested atop them, Jimin swiftly curling into Yoongi’s side for comfort and warmth.

Jimin nuzzled into Yoongi’s neck, and the alpha slung an arm over his waist. Jimin exhaled in contentment, gaze focused on the flickering fire and the shadows dancing beneath it. Embers crackled and singed wood shifted, sparks flying out and falling, devolving into dull ash.

“Remember last time we came, when Hoseok and I caught a fish,” Jimin murmured, eyes half-lidded.

Yoongi chuckled, chest rising beneath Jimin. “Yeah. Couldn’t wrap my head around how you’d gotten it, but there it was.”

“We followed the gulls. They track the fish better than we ever could.”

“Smart,” Yoongi said. “You really are a genius of a pup.”

“Mm. Not a pup,”

Yoongi pressed a kiss to Jimin’s hair, then settled once more. “Find any nice sea stones today?”

“A green one,” Jimin replied. “Put it in my bag already. I’ll wash it off when we get home and put it in the bowl with the others.”

“Sounds good. What a useless collection.”

Jimin pouted. “They’re pretty.”

“Useless, but I love them dearly,” Yoongi corrected himself.

Jimin grasped Yoongi’s fingers and began to absently play with them, focusing on his veiny digits, prominent knuckles, and the contrast of his hand against Jimin’s. Jimin hadn’t considered his fingers to be chubby until he compared them to Yoongi’s.

Jimin’s mind wandered as they lapsed into silence. His head was filled with images of blooming flowers and young does. He and Yoongi planting flowers in ceramic vases, hands dirty and calloused. He imagined cracked windows and breezes filtering through the living room, carrying the faint scent of rain and new grass.

“Are you ready for spring?” Jimin whispered.

“I suppose,” Yoongi said evenly. “I think we’re all tired of snow and frozen everything.”

“Animals return in the spring,” Jimin reminded, an edge to his tone. “And whatever else comes with them.”

“We’re better prepared this time.”

“You can’t be sure.”

“You’re right, but that’s the hope we’re clinging onto.”

Jimin pressed his lips together, falling into silence. “It’ll be better if we make it to summer.”

“It’ll be better when we make it to summer,” Yoongi murmured. He shifted over to look at Jimin, reflecting the omega’s tired expression. Their noses brushed, proximity close. Yoongi offered a soft smile. “Summer means hanging out by the lake, yeah?”

“Berry season,” Jimin added, tone still weak. “Tae’s gonna want to make pies.”

“Thunderstorms and fireflies.”

“Cliff-diving,” Jimin reminded, lips curling into an identical smile.

“Of course,” Yoongi breathed. “And so much more after that.”

“Yoon,” Jimin mumbled.

“Hm?”

“We forgot about what’s already here in the moment.” Jimin’s attention flickered up to the unending black expanse above, the inky sky alight with blinking dots. Yoongi followed his lead, observing the blanket of stars above them.

For a moment, Jimin forgot to breathe.

“They really are brighter out here,” Yoongi whispered.

It was astounding how close the stars seemed. The longer he stared, the more sure Jimin was he could just reach out and touch them. Perhaps he could grasp one and tug it back to earth, cradle it against his chest. Jimin reached his arm up just to try it, palm facing the stars and fingers spread wide. Nothing but air.

“How old do you think they are?” Jimin asked.

“Older than we’ll ever be.”

“Good,” Jimin said to himself. “I like that there are things in the world that will outlive all of us, that are here no matter what.” Jimin paused, lip caught between his teeth in consideration. “Do you think we all see the same stars?”

“Maybe,” Yoongi mumbled. “You can’t really be sure if you never stray far from home.”

“What a concept, though, huh? There could be wolves way out east that are seeing the exact same sky as the rest of us,” Jimin breathed. “Kinda makes you feel warm.”

“Mm,” Yoongi agreed. “It does.”

Jimin closed his eyes and pressed himself closer into the crook of Yoongi’s neck. He placed his hand on his mate’s heart and listened to the faint thrum of his heartbeat for a long while. Yoongi’s palm brushed over Jimin’s, holding him in place.

Yoongi kissed Jimin’s temple. Jimin sighed and breathed in, lost in Yoongi’s scent. Yoongi’s lips brushed down lower, Jimin’s skin tingling from the touch. He exhaled and shifted, breaking away to hover over Yoongi.

Jimin cupped Yoongi’s cheek and kissed him properly, feeling safe under the watch of millions of stars. The kiss was slow and languid, the wolves merely feeling it out as their cold and tired bodies stirred back to life. Jimin brushed his thumb along Yoongi’s jaw, then parted his lips, deepening the kiss.

Yoongi grasped Jimin’s hip, yet hesitated. “Let’s go inside,” he whispered, lips ghosting over Jimin’s.

Jimin wanted to protest, but he could feel the aching chill in his bones. Yoongi helped him sit up. They quickly collected their blankets and moved past the fire, retreating to the cover of their tent.

Jimin had layered the floor of the tent with soft, thick furs. He spread out their other blankets too, contributing to the enticingly comfortable mass of fabric and fur. They kicked off their shoes and shrugged off their outer layers, settling into the temporary nest Jimin had built.

As soon as the entrance was closed behind them, Jimin was back on Yoongi, arms thrown around his shoulders, and lips searching out his mate’s. Yoongi helped ease Jimin onto his back, kissing him deeply throughout his careful ministrations. They continued to shed their clothes meanwhile.

Jimin wasn’t sure how it happened, but he was soon laid bare, too occupied with Yoongi’s tongue laving against his own and the alpha’s fingertips scorching trails across his skin.

Jimin knew how to fuck. Understood the hunger in movement, the desperation of trying to sate their deepest desires. But this was more. Yoongi’s touch was so much gentler than usual. He handled Jimin like he was something delicate, something to be revered.

There was nothing hurried about this process. It was heat, yet not quite fire. It was warmth and comfort. Safety. Jimin felt at ease in Yoongi’s arms, settling into the one person he could call home.

Yoongi broke their kiss after a long while to move across Jimin’s jaw, then down his neck, lower and lower until kisses had been scattered just about everywhere Yoongi could think to reach. He traced a path down Jimin’s heaving chest, light across his belly and hips, then lingering when he reached his thighs. Yoongi’s thumbs dug slightly into the thick muscle, holding Jimin’s legs still as he sucked small marks onto both of Jimin’s inner thighs.

Jimin rested an arm over his mouth to muffle his gasps, already too sensitive over Yoongi’s excruciatingly careful touch.

“How long’s it been since I told you how gorgeous you are?” Yoongi murmured, voice a low rumble in his chest as he took Jimin in.

“I don’t know, a couple days?” Jimin huffed, trying to focus his gaze on Yoongi.

“Too long,” Yoongi said with a mild frown.

Jimin threw his head back with an airy laugh. “You’re acting like you’ve committed an atrocity.”

Yoongi bent back down and nipped at Jimin’s thigh, effectively quieting the omega. Jimin gripped the blankets beneath him as Yoongi continued on, reaching his destination. Jimin’s lungs seized up, flushing to his ears as Yoongi pressed his thumb to the slick gathering at Jimin’s entrance.

Yoongi worked him open slowly, almost to the point of impatience on Jimin’s part. It was too much, honestly—Yoongi’s fingers stretching him open, crooking inside, while his tongue worked along his rim. Yoongi had to hold Jimin steady while he squirmed. Jimin was lost in his own foggy head, uttering nothing but stuttered moans.

“Too close,” Jimin gasped. “Just, just—”

Yoongi pulled away as Jimin’s release was building. Jimin exhaled a shuddering breath.

Jimin couldn’t have been more relieved when he was finally filled up. He shut his eyes and clung to Yoongi’s shoulder as he was stretched even more, the sensation only contributing to the thrumming pleasure.

Yoongi twined their fingers as he started thrusting into Jimin, keeping his movements deep and sensual, watching each of Jimin’s minute reactions. Jimin’s lips parted, red and worn, small pants escaping each time Yoongi’s cock brushed against his prostate.

Jimin vaguely registered Yoongi telling him to open his eyes. Jimin’s lashes fluttered as he obeyed, vision barely focusing as he tried to meet his mate’s hooded gaze.

“Look at you,” Yoongi crooned. “Always so pretty.”

One hand tightened its grip on Jimin’s, the other raising to trail softly along Jimin’s cheek. He brushed his thumb across Jimin’s lower lip before he moved up to thread his fingers into Jimin’s mussed hair.

“Love of my life,” Yoongi whispered, to himself more than Jimin.

Jimin sucked in sharply at a sudden and quick thrust. He wasn’t entirely coherent, a little tongue-tied, too. But Jimin hoped he could wrap his lips around a response. He squeezed Yoongi’s hand and offered a weak smile. “Love you,” he sighed.

Yoongi bent down for a heated and languid kiss.

They unraveled together, Jimin left feeling sated and full—absolutely consumed by love.

Chapter Text

“It’s dusty in here,” Jimin whined. He trailed after Sanghee like a duckling, wrinkling his nose as they stepped into a small storage room in the Mins’ house. Yellow light filtered through the single, narrow window, illuminating the hundreds of dust motes hanging in the air.

“We won’t be in here long,” Sanghee assured as she reached up for a box. She lowered it to the floor and opened it up for Jimin to peer inside. “We forgot to label these, so we need to figure out which of them are storing Yoon’s old clothes.”

“Why are we looking for his clothes? He has plenty in his room.”

“Because Yoongi outgrows them, and we put everything that’s too small for him in here. Since you’re younger, some of these are going to fit you now,” Sanghee explained. “Your eomma asked if we had any spare winter clothes, so I’m sure we can find something for you in the mess.”

“I like Yoon’s blue sweater,” Jimin said with a pout.

Sanghee snickered. “That one still fits him, sweetie. I promise it’s yours as soon as he’s outgrown it, though.”

“Fine,” Jimin grumbled.

Honestly, Jimin wanted to be outside, learning how to crouch and pounce with Yoongi and Daejung, not rifling through a storage room. But he’d been scolded enough for his grumpiness lately, so Jimin tried to keep quiet.

Sanghee was carrying another box toward him when a chair caught his eye. It was engraved with leaves and flowers, paint chipped from use and age.

“What’s that?” Jimin gasped excitedly. He rushed over to touch it, the chair rocking beneath his force. “It moves!”

“It does,” Sanghee chuckled. “I used that when Yoongi was a little pup. We don’t have little ones around anymore, so it’s stuck back here to save space, unfortunately.”

“It’s pretty. Can I have it?” Jimin asked, eyes wide and pleading.

“Oh, sweetie. I don’t think that’ll fit in yours and Jihyun’s room at home. Maybe when you’re older.”

Jimin visibly deflated, slumping forward and lips puckered with dissatisfaction.

Sanghee cooed down at him. She scooped him up rather easily, resting the child against her hip as she peppered kisses across his puffed cheeks. “Aw, don’t pout, Jiminie. I said you could have it later.”

“But what if I want it now?”

“That’s not how things always work, sweet boy. When we bake cakes, we have to wait for them to be ready before we can eat them, don’t we?”

Jimin looked up at the alpha through his lashes, cheeks red. “Guess so,” he mumbled.

Sanghee pressed another kiss to the tip of his nose.

“We just have to wait for things, but that’s okay. The good stuff in life is usually what we have to wait for, anyway.”

“Really?”

“Mm, really. Trust me, Jimin, because you know all I ever want is for you to be happy.”

☽○☾

Jimin stifled a yawn as he flipped another yellowed page, barely registering the words he was reading as a sleepy fog drifted to the forefront of his mind. The novel was a love story, but Jimin had grown a bit bored of the pining a while ago. It seemed much more interesting when Yoongi read it to him the night before.

Jimin sighed and leaned back into the headboard, eyes drooping as he laid the book down on his lap. He legs were layered in blankets, upper half swathed in one of Yoongi’s thickest sweaters. Although it had admittedly been heating up for the past few weeks, the nights were still unbearably cold.

Jimin’s gaze drifted to the window, shrouded by a thick, maroon curtain. They had kept the curtain closed at nights for a long while now, and it seemed to be helping Jimin’s state of mind. He felt less fear creeping between his ribs when his eyes couldn’t drift to the dark expanse of forest beyond them. It was even better when he laid facing away from it, Yoongi hugging his back, secure and comforting.

Jimin brushed his fingertip over the thin pages, lifting, dropping, focused on the wall of red before him. Footsteps pattered down the hall then, shaking Jimin from his distraction. He looked toward the door, Yoongi slowing in the entryway of their bedroom.

“Hey,” Yoongi said quietly, toweling his wet hair. Jimin stared at the alpha’s collarbones peeking out from his loose shirt. Yoongi arched a brow. “Give up on reading?”

Jimin shut the book and set it to the side. “It’s not as entertaining alone.”

“Oh really?” Yoongi said with mild amusement. He dropped the towel into the hamper and walked around the bed, his woodsy scent mixed with soap drifting through the room. Yoongi slumped onto the mattress with an exhale and scooted to head of the bed, resting inches from Jimin. “Want me to read it to you?”

Jimin hummed, a frown pulling at his lips. “Not tonight,” he murmured. Jimin pushed off his layers of blankets and shifted over, crawling onto Yoongi’s lap. He slung his arms around the alpha’s shoulders and looked down at him with a half-lidded gaze. “Wanna talk about your birthday.”

“It’s almost two weeks away,” Yoongi said. He smoothed his palms over the curves of Jimin’s waist.

“We can still make a plan. What do you wanna do?” Jimin said, swallowing the purr rising in his throat.

“Hang out with you.”

Jimin snorted. “But doing what?”

“I don’t know. We already went to the coast. What else is there to do?” Yoongi drawled, more focused on his own hand over Jimin’s hip, dragging the omega closer.

“We could have a party.”

Yoongi wrinkled his nose. “Too many people.”

“You really just wanna spend the whole day with me?” Jimin murmured.

“No one else I’d rather be with,” Yoongi said simply, focus flickering back up to Jimin’s face. He smiled.

“You’re cute,” Jimin mumbled.

“You’re cuter,” Yoongi retorted with a shake of his head.

“We must be so exhausting to everyone else.”

Yoongi snickered. “You don’t care.”

“No, I really don’t,” Jimin admitted. He pressed his palm to Yoongi’s neck, thumb stroking over his mating mark. Jimin leaned further into Yoongi until he rested his head on the alpha’s shoulder, pressed closed enough to feel the satisfied rumble in Yoongi’s chest.

Yoongi wrapped his arms around Jimin fully and began to rub his back in slow, soothing motions. “Maybe we can go visit my parents.”

Jimin nuzzled into the crook of his neck and inhaled. “On your birthday?”

“It’s been a while. I think they’d enjoy it.”

“Mm,” Jimin uttered, considering. “We haven’t gone to see them since we mated.”

“They would have loved to be at that ceremony,” Yoongi sighed.

“I’m sure they were watching, wherever they really are.”

“God, I hope they weren’t watching when the ceremony ended.”

Jimin weakly slapped his chest. “Yoon. Don’t think about your parents watching us have sex. I assure you, their spirits had better things to do.”

Yoongi grinned and grasped Jimin’s hand so the omega couldn’t hit him again. He brought Jimin’s hand to his lips and kissed his palm. Jimin’s eyes drifted closed as Yoongi’s lips brushed over his skin, longer fingers finally twining with his own.

“I hope our pups have your short and chubby fingers.”

Jimin huffed out a chuckle. “Why?”

“I think that would be adorable.”

Jimin smiled and curled into Yoongi. “Then I hope they all get your nose.”

“Sounds like a fair deal to me.”

Yoongi rested his cheek against Jimin’s hair and exhaled. “Maybe we’ll go visit my parents the day after my birthday,” he quietly suggested. “Then we can just stay at home the day of.”

“I can bake for you,” Jimin mumbled.

“You don’t have to do anything for me. Just be here,” Yoongi replied, chest rising and falling evenly beneath Jimin.

“You already know I will be.”

Yoongi hummed and brushed his fingers through Jimin’s hair. Jimin’s thoughts drifted to early March—they should be back out hunting again. He could only imagine the situations they would have encountered by the time Yoongi’s birthday rolled around. Jimin could tamp down the fear for now, but they would have to face that beast eventually.

“You smell good,” Yoongi said suddenly.

Jimin scrunched up his nose, confused. “Do I not always smell good?”

“No, you do,” Yoongi said, considering. “I don’t know, it hit me especially hard just now.”

Jimin pulled away with bleary eyes. He grasped Yoongi’s cheek and pressed a gentle kiss to his lips. “Yeah?” He mumbled.

Yoongi shifted up and pulled Jimin flush to his chest. “Yeah,” he breathed, kissing Jimin again.

“‘M tired,” Jimin whispered, another soft peck. He felt the rumble in Yoongi’s chest.

“So you wanna sleep?”

A gasp, a brush of lips. “In a moment.”

☽○☾

It was the last day of February, and Jimin couldn’t eat. He picked at his plate while the nervous, jittery atmosphere strung out around him. Most of the hunters were gathered at one table, trying to make conversation, yet all too aware of the anxiety amongst them.

It would be their first official hunting day of the season.

Hoseok cleared his throat and glanced around at their group. “Well, I guess now’s the time to make a speech on how nice it’s been knowing all of you.”

Taehyung leaned forward and scowled at him. “Oh, shut up,” he said, raising a bread roll in warning. “No one’s dying today. You’re all going to go out and do what you normally do. Then you’ll come home, whine about how cold it was, and start over again. I swear, you’re too dramatic.”

“Sounds like you’re projecting your hopes for this,” Hoseok retorted.

“Sure, maybe I am,” Taehyung huffed. “But if it gets you to shut up about the bad stuff that could happen instead...”

Jungkook frowned and rubbed Taehyung’s back. “How about we just don’t talk about it? Whatever happens, happens.”

Jimin couldn’t quit staring at his plate, barely present.

“You need to eat something,” he vaguely heard Yoongi murmur against his ear.

Jimin blinked. Right, food. Jimin tried to chew small bites, focusing in on the odd taste that stuck to his tongue. He must have been furrowing his brows, lips down-turned as he chewed and swallowed.

Dasung nudged him from his other side. “What’s wrong?” She asked, observing his distaste.

“Just tastes different,” Jimin said, trying to shake it off.

“Wouldn’t surprise me if they did something wrong back there. Half those cooks are incompetent,” Dasung grumbled. “I’ll kick some asses if they give you food poisoning.”

Jimin snorted in mild amusement. “Thanks. Not sure that’s what it is, though.”

Taeseob clapped his hands together from the other end of the table then, drawing their attention. “I think everyone’s going to do great. I’m sure you’re excited to be heading back out. You’ve been acting so cooped up,” he said with a gentle smile.

Hyejin gave a dry laugh.

Hoseok tapped Taeseob’s hand. “That’s a nice sentiment.”

“I swear, you hunters are trained to be pessimists or something,” Taeseob went on with a cute pout.

“Nah, Yoongi says we’re realists,” Jungkook stated.

“Some of you are just idiots,” Yoongi corrected.

Dasung snickered and Hyejin muffled a laugh of her own.

“I’m an optimist,” Wheein interjected.

“Sure, babe,” Hyejin said.

“What? I am! I was one of the only practical wolves when the rest of you were moping around in the fall. I see the good stuff in every situation so we, as a society, can continue functioning.”

“Looks like Hyejin’s pride is rubbing off on you,” Hoseok said.

Wheein gasped in genuine offense.

Jimim’s attention drifted from the conversational bickering as he made a quick sweep of the room. The chatter of the rest of the dining hall was dull, wavering through volumes as gazes flickered to them, apprehension and anticipation palpable. Jimin felt the attention like a prickling under his skin. He almost wondered if it would be better once they were out of sight of the pack, shrouded in the unending cover of their woods. Even if they felt vulnerable, at least they weren’t subjected to scrutiny.

Some time had passed before Jimin’s immediate surroundings flooded back to him. He perked up at the pitch in Wheein’s voice.

“The only thing I’m worried about is which routes are viable,” the omega said, shifting toward Yoongi. Jimin swallowed a growl as her arm brushed against Yoongi’s. This was no time to succumb to possessiveness, although the urge had been eating at him especially hard lately.

“I think our team will try out the area by the western side of the lake,” Yoongi said.

Jimin frowned. “That’s too far east.”

“We have to feel it out, Jimin,” Yoongi replied, leveling him with a pointed look. No arguing.

Jimin bit the inside of his cheek and turned away.

“I’ll assign Chunhei to our routes farthest west. They shouldn’t hit any trouble other than residual snow over there. Hoseok can hit the area in the middle,” Yoongi instructed, awaiting Hoseok’s reaction.

The younger alpha shrugged. “There may still be ice, but we can take it slow. How far south should we go?”

“No farther than the hills. We’ll leave exploration for late spring, when the terrain’s fully thawed.”

Jimin tapped his nails against the tabletop. “Should Dasung stay here?” He spoke up.

Yoongi glanced between Jimin and the girl. “You think she needs more training?”

“I think I don’t want a pup put in possible danger,” Jimin corrected.

Dasung squawked from behind him. “Excuse me, I’ll be just fine. I’ll be quiet and hang behind the rest of you like you taught me. I promise I’ll listen, Jimin.”

Jimin arched a brow. “Really? Because I know how over-excited you get.”

“You can berate me all you want if I step out of line. But I swear I’ll be good,” Dasung practically plead. She grasped Jimin’s hand, her skin warmer than his. She widened her eyes, shining and innocent.

“If you’re lying to me—”

“Never. Not anymore,” Dasung said firmly. “You think I’d do that to the wolf who saved my life?”

Jimin rolled his eyes. “Okay, now you’re getting dramatic,” he said. “Fine. We’re sending you home if you don’t follow orders, alright? We’re not fucking around this time.”

Dasung broke into a grin. “Yes, Appa,” she cheekily replied.

Jimin snorted. “Brat.”

A gust of wind blew past as a family entered through the main doors. The heavy wood slammed shut behind them. A shiver wracked through Jimin, and when he looked up, his eyes met Taehyung’s. The other omega seemed to have been watching their exchange, absently rubbing his belly with a distant expression.

“Tae,” Jimin said quietly, a moment passing before recognition sparked in Taehyung’s gaze.

“Sorry,” he said quickly. “I guess I’ve been spacing out a lot.”

Jimin shook his head. “It’s okay.” He wasn’t sure what was running through Taehyung’s head, but it must have been concern at the very least. While Jimin was too distracted by his own mission today to worry much over his mate, Taehyung would be left here alone. He wasn’t even scheduled for work; he may just be spending hours at home, pacing until someone returned.

“Hey,” Jimin coaxed, waiting for Taehyung to focus on him. “We’re going to be okay. You know that, right?”

Taehyung’s palm stilled over the curve of his belly. “Okay,” Taehyung echoed, although his heart clearly wasn’t in it. “I’ll believe you.”

Jimin rested his hand on his thigh under the table, grasping at the material of his long sweater. He found he needed something to hold onto when so many feelings were washing through him.

Then Yoongi’s hand found his, touch brushing over him with gentle security. Jimin exhaled.

Wheein gravitated toward Jimin as they were preparing to set out. Jimin was stalling by the edge of the woods, merely watching the sway of leaves and the glitter of sunlight on the fresh greenery.

“Nervous?” She said.

“I think that’s just our natural state of being at this point,” Jimin quietly replied.

Wheein laughed airily. “Fair.”

Hoseok was shouting about something not far off, followed by a clamor of other voices. They were hyping themselves up. Jimin shifted on his feet and braced against a chilled breeze.

“You’ll take care of him for me, right?” Jimin murmured. His biggest fear was not being there when Yoongi needed him most. He could not allow a repeat of last time. Jimin was healthy and healed now, yet he was going to be frightfully separated from the person he wanted to protect most.

“Of course,” Wheein said firmly. “You know we all love him. We’ve got his back.”

Jimin nodded, allowing just a slight bit of relief to wash through him. “Good. Thank you.”

They shifted, split off into their teams, and set out. Jimin pressed Dasung between Jungkook and himself as Hoseok cautiously led them through. The forest was still silent as winter, the occasional flap of wings startling them out of their collective wits.

The earth was still heavy with the scent of melted snow, muting anything else they should be picking up otherwise. They could barely smell the life around them, catching only faint trails of deer and squirrels. Nothing alarming, though; for that, they could be grateful.

They delved deeper for a long while until Jimin had to take the lead, determined to pick up any scent that could get them a kill. As they advanced through the territory, Jimin could feel a sense of ease spreading through his team. They were less aware of their paranoia when they were surrounded by such familiar and comforting terrain.

They passed through patches of sunlight, through communities of chattering birds. The life swelling around them brought a level of relief they could not even describe.

Wind buffeted Jimin’s fur as they crested a short hill, a valley spanning out below them. Jimin paused, claws sinking into cold moss and frozen ground. He flicked his ears and glanced around, chest heaving from their long trek. From the sun’s position, it looked to be past noon. The rest of their world should be well awake by now.

The wind shifted directions, bringing with it the faint scent of deer. Jimin looked to the east as his body went rigid with alert. “Quiet,” Jimin commanded, and the shuffling behind him fell to a hush.

At the end of the valley, hidden in the line of dense evergreens, was a buck.

Jimin lowered himself and laid his ears flat. “Approach slow and stick to the trees. Don’t pass me,” he said, already advancing without the others’ confirmation. Jimin’s heart was fluttering with anticipation, excitement welling up the stronger the scent became.

It was a long approach at their pace, but Jimin was sure that the buck wouldn’t be startled. Hoseok and Jungkook split off deeper into the trees when they grew much closer. Jimin’s muscles tensed and his nostrils flared once he and Dasung were a few yards away.

“You can run behind me, but don’t trip me up,” Jimin said. His attention was zeroing in on the kill now, determination strong and anticipation thick. Jimin had been awaiting this moment for months. He’d be damned if he didn’t take this buck down on his own.

“Sure. I don’t think I can run as fast as you, anyway,” Dasung replied.

Jimin could sense her presence to his side, a couple feet back.

“Are you ready to run?”

“Of course. I could use a good burn in my thighs.”

“Then let’s go,” Jimin said simply, lurching forward. He broke into a sprint, the buck startling immediately and leaping to the south. It wasn’t the direction Jimin wanted it to go, but if he kept his pace up, he’d probably be able to steer it closer to the other half of their team.

His chest heaved with effort, a pleasant sting in his limbs. Jimin’s self-defense lessons with the pack omegas had been a good warm-up for the season, but it was incomparable to a chase. Jimin could hear his blood pumping in his ears as he ran, could feel the strain in each of his muscles as he gained ground on the buck.

He followed its precise path, hopping over roots and bushes just a beat after the deer. Jimin could start to hear the buck’s ragged breathing. He was surrounded by its scent. Shadow fell over them, the trees surrounding them seeming to creep in. It was dense, turning their path treacherous. Jimin needed to finish this quickly.

Jimin pushed himself harder, gaining on the buck’s heels. He made a sharp swerve to reach the buck’s side, and nipped at its hind leg. It stumbled, then continued on with a limp. Jimin only needed to close the remaining few inches. The buck was desperate, but Jimin had little more speed left in him.

Jimin rammed into the deer and sunk his teeth into its flank, falling and pulling the buck down with him. Jimin released the buck while it tried to gather its bearings, then bit into its neck until it fell limp.

Jimin wouldn’t say the blood filling his mouth provided a pleasant taste, but it did bring him great satisfaction. He licked his muzzle clean as his panting, gasping teammates closed in around him.

“Damn, no one said you had to do it alone,” Jungkook said, impressed.

“Yeah, Jimin. Learn how to be a team player,” Hoseok joked.

Jimin snorted and flicked his ears. He turned back to observe Dasung, only to find her staring at him in awe, like he was something otherworldly.

Jimin readjusted his coat, flipping the collar up to better cover his neck. Hyejin was just finishing up her story on a bird she caught while waiting for Wheein to track a doe. She exaggerated the size of the bird, Hoseok laughing as she made an estimate with her hands.

Yoongi whistled and Jimin backed away from the small group, turning around to scamper over to his mate. He wrapped himself around Yoongi’s arm and grinned up at the alpha.

“Looks like you enjoyed yourself,” Yoongi commented with a small smile of his own.

Jimin hummed. “Are you proud of me? That was a big buck we had to drag back, right?”

“You don’t need my approval.”

“Well of course not,” Jimin huffed. “But I still want it. Praise me, Yoonie.”

“Dork,” Yoongi sighed.

“You sound endeared.”

“I am,” Yoongi said.

The sun was low on the horizon as they waltzed toward the dining hall for an early dinner. Each team had been out most of the day, observing the terrain and bringing home kill after kill. It was an admirable first batch of the season.

“I hope you didn’t strain yourself, though.”

“I know my limits,” Jimin pouted. “It felt great getting back into it. I think this is going to be a good spring.”

“Yeah? Let’s hope you’re right,” Yoongi said. “There weren’t too many birds nesting by the lake, so we’ll have to look into that more later. I just thought it seemed odd.”

“It does,” Jimin quietly agreed. “Anything else out of the ordinary?”

Yoongi shook his head. “Surprisingly, no. I expected something to go wrong, so the absence of any bad signs is really messing with me.”

“I guess we should be thankful that our territory is safe for now?” Jimin suggested, sharing in Yoongi’s hesitation.

“Sure. But we can’t let our guard down.”

Jimin nodded, expression somber. “We have something good to report to the pack for now, though.”

“Mm,” Yoongi said, “And maybe you can sleep better for a little while.”

Jimin exhaled and rested his forehead against Yoongi’s bicep. “Yeah. That really would be nice.”

Yoongi halted then, forcing Jimin to a stop beside him. Jimin blinked up at him curiously. “Sorry,” Yoongi said. “I actually am proud of you.”

Jimin flushed pink, taken aback. “I wasn’t serious—”

“I am,” Yoongi said evenly. “I know you were scared, but you went out and gave it your all.”

“I have to. I’m a hunter, aren’t I?” Jimin said, a soft smile curling at the corners of his lips. Yoongi’s reaction to that sentiment was notably different, however. A weight settled in Jimin’s belly as he watched Yoongi’s expression shift, a new tension in his limbs and a firm line to his lips.

“You’re a wolf first,” Yoongi quietly corrected. “Being a hunter is no reason for you to subject yourself to something you don’t think you can do.”

Jimin bit his bottom lip and gripped the sleeve of Yoongi’s coat. “One blood.”

“Doesn’t mean it has to be shed,” Yoongi added, voice low.

“My loyalties lie with my pack first, Yoon,” Jimin said weakly. “Is this something we really have to fight over?”

“What would you do if I ordered you to stop hunting?” Yoongi asked, observing Jimin’s reaction with sharp eyes.

“You wouldn’t,” Jimin said slowly.

“I’m not implying that I will. But I want to know if you would listen,” Yoongi went on. “If your heart’s with your pack, you follow the chain of command.”

“So either way I’m stuck,” Jimin said stiffly. “I obey my mate, or I obey my superior. Is this what you’re getting at?”

“Jimin—”

“Are you cornering me?” Jimin said, voice strained. “Well here’s a simple answer—I’ll do whatever I need to protect the people I love. Okay? You know me, knew what you were getting into when we mated.”

Yoongi met his eyes for a moment longer, furrow relaxing, an almost defeated look overtaking his expression. He inhaled a stuttered breath. “I know. You’re right, I know.”

Jimin’s shoulders eased up, tension falling away as a realization hit him. “You scared yourself today, didn’t you?” Jimin asked. He hadn’t even noticed Yoongi’s pale complexion, or the anxious shift of his gaze when he returned from the hunt. “You were convinced something was going to go terribly wrong, and now you’re just paranoid. You know what it feels like, to not be able to escape that fear in the back of your head.”

Jimin grabbed Yoongi’s hand, watched his chest heave with deep, calming breaths.

“I let it get to me,” Yoongi admitted.

Jimin nodded. “That’s okay. Just... just tell me next time. Didn’t you say we could handle this together?”

Yoongi looked at him apologetically, clinging tighter to his mate as he nodded.

“Then that’s what we’ll do. We can go eat, a-and whatever ever else after that. Distractions, right Yoon? We’ll be okay.”

☽○☾

Jimin woke alone during an early morning in March. Yoongi’s birthday was only a few days off, and Jimin was still trying to concoct some sort of plan. It had been a rough few months, and Jimin wanted to be sure Yoongi could take the whole day to focus on merely enjoying himself.

This morning, though, Yoongi was away. He’d told Jimin the day prior that he and Namjoon would be stuck in meetings for a little while. They had a representative from a small pack out west that they needed to discuss trade with.

Jimin went about his routine with bleary eyes as the rising sun cast brilliant orange onto the shining hardwood of the living room floor. He quickly cooked eggs for himself, knowing he had to be with the hunters soon. They were setting out earlier than usual, planning to move further south than they had during their previous hunts.

Jimin tugged on a thick sweater and an old black fur before he set out, squinting against the filtered light.

There was a pit of discomfort in Jimin’s belly. He’d been feeling nauseous with anxiety for a good week now. No matter how well each hunt went, he still couldn’t shake the ill feeling he dealt with every morning.

Jimin swallowed a lump in his throat and tried to shake off the jitters running through his body. He walked quickly to their meetup point, finding Hoseok and Jungkook already idling around the shed.

“Morning,” Hoseok grumbled, ruffling his hair as he fought back a yawn.

“I don’t know why we have to be out here when Yoongi’s not even gonna show up. Can’t we postpone until later?”

“I explained this yesterday,” Hoseok said. “I figured you were listening.”

“He just likes to complain,” Jimin said with a roll of his eyes. He burrowed further into his coat and glanced around the expanse of dewy grass. “When’s Dasung getting here?”

“Dunno. Haven’t seen her yet,” Hoseok said.

“Hyejin and Wheein?”

“Starting later in the morning,” Jungkook sighed.

Jimin’s gut felt tight. He furrowed his brows in discomfort, confused as sweat started to bead at his temples. His fingers were numb with the outside chill, yet his skin felt overall flushed. He didn’t think he was ill; there’d been no real symptoms of sickness in the days prior. Jimin was also careful to avoid sick wolves, knowing any illness would be a setback to their hunting schedule. Besides, Jimin had a pretty decent immune system.

“Maybe I’ll lay out here and nap until Dasung shows up,” Jungkook said, eyes drooping.

“Didn’t sleep well?” Jimin asked.

Jungkook shook his head. “Tae kept waking up and tossing around. He’s having a hard time getting comfortable these days, and he can’t always sleep through the night. So of course, I’m stuck staying up with him.”

“Seems fair to me that you don’t sleep either. That’s what you get for knocking him up,” Hoseok shrugged.

Jimin snorted in dry amusement. He began to sway on his heels, anxious to just head out and get started. If he kept himself moving, he was sure the nausea would fade, as it always did.

“Did someone tell Dasung the wrong time?” Jimin asked.

“Don’t think so. It was Yoongi who told her,” Hoseok replied.

Jimin worried his lip. Birds chirped beyond and grass swayed at their feet. It should have been calming, yet Jimin’s skin continued to prickle with heat. His stomach was rolling. Oh no, Jimin couldn’t hold back the ill feeling much longer.

Jimin lurched forward and rushed to a set of bushes. Before he could even process it, he was hunched over, throwing up what little breakfast he’d managed to consume.

“God, I can’t look or I’ll be sick, too,” Hoseok groaned, turning around.

Jungkook rushed over to stand behind Jimin, rubbing his back as the omega quivered, still puking the last of his bile.

“Is he okay?” Hoseok shouted.

“Yeah,” Jungkook replied with a sigh, an odd tinge to his tone.

Jimin took deep breaths as he tried to steady himself, body feeling so very weak. Jungkook pulled out a flask of water for Jimin. Jimin gratefully accepted it and washed out his mouth, shooting back a couple gulps after.

Jungkook was still rubbing his back in long, soothing motions, trying his best to help Jimin calm down. Jimin’s hands were rested on his thighs, too shaky to move back upright.

“I guess I owe you a congrats,” Jungkook murmured. His hand worked over the taut muscles of Jimin’s shoulders, kneading before it lowered again.

“On what? Puking up my guts?” Jimin retorted, voice hoarse and harsh to his ears.

“Oh,” Jungkook said, tone dropping. “Sorry. I figured you knew.”

Jimin shifted around to squint up at the alpha. “What are you on about?”

“It’s nothing,” Jungkook attempted to qualm.

“Obviously it’s not. Just tell me, Kook,” Jimin huffed.

“Well,” Jungkook drawled with evident hesitation. “I just figured, with the scent change and the nausea lately...”

“Scent change?” Jimin echoed. “Me? When?”

“Over a week ago, I think. It’s pretty faint, so I’m not surprised Yoongi hasn’t noticed yet,” Jungkook explained.

Then it hit Jimin, like a warm burst of hope.

Jimin gasped and whipped up, eyes wide. “Oh my god,” was all he could utter.

“So you get it now,” Jungkook said, watching Jimin’s reaction carefully.

“Holy fuck, I need to go,” Jimin said, voice wavering. “I n-need to—” He didn’t even have the words to finish.

“Sure. I’ll let everyone know you went home sick.”

Jimin pulled his coat tighter around himself, mind absolutely reeling while his heart thundered on beneath his ribs. Jimin was—he was—He couldn’t even wrap his head around the notion. Everything had so suddenly become a blur. He worked on instinct, following the familiar path to the infirmary, to Hyunjae. Jimin had to know.

The harsh chill bit at his cheeks as he broke into a jog. Jimin’s thoughts weren’t even coherent anymore. He could only zero in on that long-awaited destination.

Jimin burst into the infirmary with wide eyes and parted lips, skin flushed from the cold. Hyunjae startled back at his sudden entrance.

“Are you hurt?” She asked immediately, gaze roving his person for any visible injury.

Jimin mutely shook his head. “N-no,” he stammered. “Ma, I—I need to know something.” He licked his red lips, fear creeping into his arteries as the prospect of Jungkook being wrong finally dawned upon him. “I could be wrong,” Jimin said after a beat, voice cracking.

He was clearly conflicted, and Hyunjae rushed over to usher him to a cot. “Alright,” she coaxed in a soothing tone. “Let’s rest and figure this out.”

Jimin collapsed onto the seat, gripping his own sleeves as his heart hammered in his ears.

“Jimin, you look pale. Do you need water?”

Jimin shook his head. “Tell me if I’m—” Jimin stopped, throat dry. His eyes met Hyunjae’s, and something seemed to click in her head before Jimin tried again. Jimin placed a quivering hand over his belly as confirmation.

“Oh,” Hyunjae breathed. “Okay.”

She brushed a hand through her hair as she gathered her wits. “I’d usually check your abdomen for any unusual stiffness. But as a hunter, you have stronger muscles there already. So I guess we gotta play it by ear,” Hyunjae explained as she settled at the cot across from him. She paused as she scented the air, tense expression easing up somewhat.

“Has my scent really changed?” Jimin murmured, watching her intently.

“It does seem different,” Hyunjae admitted. “But that may still be a residual shift from your mating.”

“What else could be a symptom, though?”

“Appetite,” Hyunjae began. “Anything new in that area?”

“Stuff tastes weird,” Jimin said, recalling all the times his food tasted off, but in a manner he just couldn’t pinpoint. “And I haven’t been able to eat as much during the first half of the day. My stomach feels so tight and uncomfortable.”

“Do you have frequent nausea?”

Jimin nodded.

“Any vomiting?”

“Not until today,” Jimin said. “Should it have started earlier?”

“Depends on how far along you are,” Hyunjae replied. “Hypothetically.”

“If my scent had noticeably changed about a week ago, how far along would you, hypothetically, say I was?”

Hyunjae leaned back and sucked in a deep breath. “About a month. Three weeks, at the least.” She observed Jimin and the spark alight in his eyes. “Were you sexually active about a month ago?”

“Yes,” Jimin said immediately, all embarrassment thrown aside. “I didn’t think much of it at the time. We stopped considering it.”

Hyunjae huffed out a chuckle. “How does your belly feel? Bloated?”

“It sure did the past few days,” Jimin said slowly. “Oh god. Jae, do you really think we did it?”

Hyunjae reached forward to grasp Jimin’s hand. “It sounds like it, if you’re really experiencing all these symptoms, collectively and suddenly. But I can’t say for sure unless you think so. Omegas have really good intuition, Jimin. When you told me you knew you weren’t pregnant all those weeks ago, I believed you, because you of all people would know. So I want you to fully think about it, really consider it now.”

“What if I’m just being hopeful?”

“You were hopeful last time, weren’t you? You wanted it so badly, but you still couldn’t deny the truth.”

Jimin exhaled and wrapped his arms around his midsection. He’d been so tired lately, drained and drawn to comfort and sleep. He had assumed it was fatigue from the hunts. But he couldn’t deny how differently his body had been reacting, how his overall state of being had shifted. Jimin felt a constant need to be with his alpha. He was reluctant to skip out on rest. His instincts were driving him to care for himself—well, not just himself, it seemed.

His fingers curled into the loose material of his sweater. If Jimin was being entirely honest with himself, he hadn’t felt empty for quite some time.

“I’m pregnant,” Jimin whispered. He rocked forward, suspended in disbelief. “I’m pregnant.”

There was reverent stillness in the air, a short second that could have lasted forever.

Then Hyunjae stood and kissed his cheek, ruffling her son’s hair as Jimin held himself. “Congrats, pup,” she murmured.

Jimin let out a breathless chuckle. “I gotta go home,” he rasped. “I gotta—I don’t know. Gotta do something.”

“Then get home safe,” Hyunjae said softly. “And I’ll let you tell your mother yourself. She’ll be much more excited hearing it from you.”

“Thanks,” Jimin uttered. “Thank you, Ma.” He stood on unsteady legs and readjusted his fur, set back on the path from which he came.

Jimin couldn’t recall the walk home. He kept both hands on his belly, the rest of the world a fog in his peripheral.

He stepped into an empty and silent house, morning sunlight still soft against their furniture. Jimin shut the door and leaned against it, trying to gather his thoughts. To be honest, he really couldn’t think.

For months, they had tried so hard. Jimin had shed countless tears over their failed endeavors. Then, seemingly out of nowhere, it happened. One of those nights, it had simply happened, without Jimin even realizing. A month ago, Jimin repeated in his head. So, somewhere between early and mid-February.

Jimin’s vision was hit with a flash of stars, a warm memory returning to him full-force. Oh, the timing would have been perfect. It would have happened before the hunting season began, when their fears were still looming and unknown.

But now they were back in reality. Jimin was a hunter. He had duties to uphold. With a pup, though—with their pup, Jimin wouldn’t be capable of hunting much longer.

Jimin pushed himself from the entryway, a slight stumble in his step. The floorboards creaked and the world seemed to sway beneath Jimin’s feet. He leaned onto the hallway wall for support, pace slow as he moved toward the end, turning in to the spare room on the left, seemingly on instinct.

The room was dimmer and more dusty than the rest of the house. He and Yoongi had moved some of the boxes, but after quite a few failed attempts at conceiving, Jimin had given up on the reorganization endeavor. He supposed they’d have to figure out what to do with the rest of it now.

There was a stack of three boxes on the far wall. They could put a crib there.

The drapes in here were still old and gray. Jimin wondered if they should be red to match the rest of the house. Or maybe a soft yellow, fit for a pup instead.

They would need more rugs. Yoongi would be happy to bring home new furs.

Jimin’s gaze caught on the rocking chair. He couldn’t breathe for a moment. That was probably when the matter felt most real to Jimin. He saw it, and he was suddenly struck by the recollection of that first night—Yoongi’s hesitance and hope as Jimin took in the home he’d created for them.

Jimin brushed his fingertips along the smooth wood, just as he had then. He thought of himself in the autumn, belly heavy and round.

Jimin sank into the chair with a stuttered heartbeat. When he finally settled, his palm returned to his flat stomach.

“I’m probably pregnant,” Jimin spoke to the empty room. “Soon, there’s going to be a pup in here.”

Jimin’s throat constricted. “No, I feel it. I really do.” Tears pricked at Jimin’s eyes, vision blurring as emotion swept through him. “I’m pregnant.”

His shoulders shook, lip wobbling as tears began to slide down his flushed cheeks. “Thank you,” he whispered shakily, rubbing his belly. “We’ve been waiting for a little while now, but I’m so grateful, so happy to finally have you here.”

Jimin rested his head back and shut his eyes, concentrating at the warmth he felt within himself. “Yoongi’s going to love you so much. I promise he already does. And I... I really can’t thank you enough. I will do everything in my power to keep your safe, and to keep you happy. We’re going to make it. I swear.”

Jimin curled into himself, a sob wracking his frame. He was overwhelmed with relief, fear, and love. Then, like a spark in his chest once again, hope—hope for what they had, and all they could be.

Chapter Text

Jimin brushed his fingers through his damp hair, pushing slick strands away from his eyes. He exhaled into the steamy room and lifted his towel to wipe off the fogged mirror. His skin still felt a bit wet and prickly with heat. Jimin’s stomach had tied itself in knots, tense and uncomfortable.

He’d gotten sick again that morning; luckily, the running water was loud enough to mask the sound of his puking while Yoongi dressed himself in the bedroom next door.

Jimin inhaled shakily, a mess of nerves since the day prior. Before Yoongi had returned home yesterday, Jimin had managed to collect himself and concoct an excuse as to why he had skipped hunting. Dehydration, Jimin had said. He lied and told his mate he’d suffered from a temporary headache and mild dizziness. Yoongi gave him glass after glass of water all afternoon.

Jimin knew it would have been a good time to just fess up; he wasn’t entirely sure what he was waiting for.

No time to worry over it now, though, Jimin thought. The pack representatives that Yoongi and Namjoon had met previously had stayed overnight, and as per custom, were to dine with the Kim pack this morning. It was a formality for the leaders’ mates to be introduced the second day. How unfortunate that Jimin was finally part of the custom.

Jimin tugged on his underclothes, loose shirt barely hanging off his shoulder. He rubbed at his mating mark, staring at the blatantly red skin. His other hand drifted to his stomach, and Jimin stared.

Despite the anxiety running rampant in his veins, Jimin felt the winter months had passed so swiftly. In a blink, he was mated, settling into a home with his oldest and longest friend. Now, no matter how hard it was to fully believe it, Jimin was pregnant as well. He had plenty of reasons to wear a loose collar today, show off the mark that represented every bit of the life he’d been building.

“Jimin?” Yoongi called from outside the door. “You almost ready to go?”

“Um, yeah,” Jimin said after a beat, reaching out to open the door for him. A cloud of steam rolled out, Yoongi blinking when he faced Jimin.

Yoongi was looking at him with this odd sort of awe in his eyes. If Jimin’s skin wasn’t already flushed pink, he was sure he’d be blushing.

Jimin wasn’t quite certain what to do, so he cleared his throat and turned back to the mirror. He tugged a loose sweater over his head and readjusted his hair. Yoongi stepped behind him, palm skimming lightly along Jimin’s waist. He pressed his chest to Jimin’s back and rested his head on the omega’s shoulder.

“Did you sleep alright?” Yoongi asked softly.

No, Jimin hadn’t. His head was a fog of too many thoughts since that morning. He was surprised Yoongi hadn’t detected that something was up yet. “I slept fine,” Jimin replied instead, paying more attention to his mate’s arms circled around him, his nose skimming along his mating mark.

Jimin’s breath hitched as he felt Yoongi kissing along his neck. The alpha sucked on the skin around his mark, focusing intently on his task. Jimin lurched forward an inch when teeth grazed him, nerves on fire and body quickly growing oversensitive. Yoongi hugged him tighter, a rumbling in his chest as Jimin clutched at the elder’s arms.

“Yoon, what are you...” Jimin’s voice petered off, lashes fluttering closed as a content feeling welled within him, instincts preening over being claimed in a not so subtle way.

It was uncomfortable for any of their packs members to have strange wolves around; Jimin couldn’t blame Yoongi for what he was doing.

Yoongi bit down on the juncture of Jimin’s shoulder, lapping at the spot to soothe after. He continued his journey up, pressing open-mouth kisses along Jimin’s neck until he reached the omega’s jaw. Jimin inhaled a shaky breath while Yoongi eased his grip and nuzzled into him.

“You smell good,” Yoongi muttered.

“You’ve been saying that a lot,” Jimin said, holding back a smile. His heart stuttered, finally understanding what shift Yoongi was detecting. “I should—should grab my furs,” Jimin said suddenly, shaking himself out of the heady hold of their bond.

Yoongi unwrapped himself slowly, and Jimin padded to their bedroom. Jimin went searching through his drawers for his nicest furs. He looked between the many sleek pelts he’d collected over the years of courting, hand eventually stilling over the heavy black fur he’d received in October. Jimin unfolded it carefully, admiring how the weak morning sun glittered along the fine hairs. He shrugged it on with a satisfied hum.

The pair rushed out of their cabin, Jimin wrapped around Yoongi’s arm and burrowed into his side. The early winds were the worst, bitter against his bare nose and cheeks. The expanse of grass was frozen over with frost, crunching beneath their feet on their trek to the dining hall.

Yoongi ushered Jimin inside, letting the weighty front door slam behind them. They walked past rows of tables. Taehyung saw Jimin, smiled, then paused mid-wave. He zeroed in on Jimin’s exposed neck, amusement creeping into his expression. Jimin wrinkled his nose in warning and followed Yoongi past their usual group toward the back. Namjoon and Seokjin were already chatting with two foreign alphas.

One of the alphas was stockier and older than the other, evidently the wolf taking charge. His voice was loud and booming. Jimin resisted a frown as they approached.

“Jongsoo,” Yoongi greeted stiffly, nodding to the older alpha. “Ilsung,” he said in turn to the timid, lanky one. He kept a steady hand on the small of Jimin’s back. “This is my mate, Jimin.”

“Thank you for your cooperation with our pack,” Jimin said with a forced smile; he’d always hated formalities.

Jongsoo’s gaze seemed to skim over Jimin, attention never quite lingering, before it returned to Yoongi. “Where do you Kims find all these attractive omegas?” He said, laughing at his own shallow joke.

Yoongi huffed in a dry imitation of amusement, his grip tightening around Jimin.

Seokjin smiled politely, eyes narrowing. He cleared his throat. “Can I get you both some breakfast?”

“You’re the head cook here, aren’t you?” Jongsoo said, nudging Seokjin. “I expect the best.”

Seokjin nodded mutely, stepping around his mate. He grasped Jimin’s wrist and tugged him over, wordlessly beckoning. Jimin’s eyes widened, but he followed along.

They moved to the spread of food with a unified sigh. Seokjin set about preparing plates while Jimin grabbed two for himself and Yoongi. “I hate this already,” Jimin muttered, staying close behind the elder omega.

“You get used to it,” Seokjin said, voice low. “Keep your chin up. Don’t show any signs of submission.”

“Have you forgotten who you’re speaking to?” Jimin grumbled.

“I’m just saying they can get the wrong idea. Then they’ll press, because they think they’ve been given the leeway to do so. Most alphas out in the world aren’t like ours, Jimin. They prod at us, belittle us, and do anything else our own alphas will allow.” Seokjin took a deep breath. “The Lees aren’t terrible, though. They’re just... assertive.”

“And the small one?”

Seokjin snorted. “Still a pup. Younger than Jungkook, if I recall correctly.”

“Huh,” Jimin mumbled. He balanced the plates in his grip and trailed after Seokjin. They found the alphas seated around a secluded table. They set the food down, Jimin rounding the corner to sit by Yoongi. His mate pulled him into his lap. Jimin gasped and blinked.

Jongsoo was looking at Jimin, the omega realized. Not his face, though—his body, from his lips to the curve of his hips. Yoongi was eyeing him right back, extra cautious and pointed with his possessive touch skimming along Jimin’s waist. Jongsoo seemed to break under Yoongi’s intense stare, awkwardly glancing over at Seokjin instead.

“The last time I was here, you were big and waddling, huh,” Jongsoo said, making a circular motion over his belly.

“That’s right,” Seokjin said evenly, picking at his plate. “Must have been quite a while ago. My pup is already walking.”

“Really? Time passes so quickly,” Jongsoo mused.

“And how’s your family?” Seokjin prompted.

“Well, my mate’s round and happy, and that’s all you can really ask of an omega,” he said with a confident sort of ease. “I don’t know what he’d going to do with a third pup running around, but I suppose it’s his realm. I shouldn’t question it.”

“You don’t care for your pups?” Jimin spoke up, knowing full well it was not his place to.

Jongsoo was taken aback for a moment. “I’m busy as-is,” he replied, facing Yoongi with confusion, perhaps wondering why the alpha wasn’t quieting Jimin.

“He’s worked so hard to carry them, feed them, help them grow. And you don’t contribute?” Jimin went on. “Do the pups even know their father?”

Yoongi gently pulled Jimin back into him. “It’s a different culture, Min,” he murmured against Jimin’s ear.

“Sounds unfair to me,” Jimin countered. “I’m sure your mate has other things he’d like to be doing, too—like work, or hobbies.”

Jongsoo squinted. “That is his work.” He shoveled a forkful into his mouth, looking anywhere but Jimin’s eyes, most of his attention still on Jimin’s mate. “What is it you do, exactly?”

“I hunt,” Jimin said firmly.

Jongsoo chewed. “Huh,” he mused lowly, somewhat disbelieving.

“Well,” Namjoon placated with a short clap. “Are you still feeling good about the pass over the southern river?”

The Lees were a pack to the west, so there weren’t any treacherous mountain ranges separating them . There were quite a few expanses of water that traders had to cross, however.

“We’re fairly confident about the journey. Our wolves have made it farther east than your territory before,” Jongsoo assured.

“Be wary of the water levels, though,” Yoongi added. “The rivers are sure to be deeper than you’re accustomed to this time of year, with the runoff from the north and the general moisture from the melting snow.”

Jimin averted his attention while they discussed the details, trusting that Yoongi was accurate in his knowledge. He glanced toward Ilsung, closer to his side of the table. The alpha was fiddling with his food, trying to absorb the chatter of the others.

“Are you in training?” Jimin asked softly, noticing the pup’s anxious fidgeting.

Ilsung’s gaze snapped over, locking with Jimin’s for a millisecond before he hurriedly looked away, focusing on a spot behind Jimin’s ear instead. “Y-yes,” he said quietly.

“It’s colder out here, huh?”

“Not too much,” he said.

“Why did you choose trade negotiations?” Jimin prompted, trying to ignore the odd way the alpha desperately avoided meeting Jimin’s eyes. Jimin wasn’t that intimidating, was he?

“My mother’s a diplomat,” he said. “It stays in the family.”

Jimin nodded. “I understand. I bet you’re learning a lot.”

“Yes,” he said meekly, ducking his head, clearly finished with the conversation.

Jimin leaned into Yoongi, shifting to brush his nose against the alpha’s cheek. “These alphas won’t look me in the eye,” Jimin whispered.

Yoongi turned his head to speak close to Jimin’s ear. “In their pack, it’s considered rude to directly look at another alpha’s omega. It’s nothing against you.”

Jimin frowned. “How do I tell him it’s okay?”

“He needs permission from your mate.”

“Then give him permission.”

Yoongi muffled a snicker against Jimin’s shoulder. “It’d be more trouble than it’s worth. It’d just shock them more than anything.”

Jimin huffed and crossed his arms over his chest.

“But I’ve heard there are wolves in the north,” Jongsoo said, shaking Jimin from his temporary bubble.

“Where did you hear that?” Namjoon asked, brows furrowed.

“From the Kyuns, east of you. They’ve had travelers passing through in the summer,” Jongsoo said, seemingly surprised this was the first they were hearing of it. “It’s not a big pack, so nothing of a threat.”

“I don’t see how anyone could survive that high up. It’s only mountains,” Seokjin said. “How do their young live through the winter?”

Jongsoo shrugged. “I never learned the details. I suppose they’ve just adapted.”

Yoongi hummed in question; Jimin could feel the vibrations.

“What?” Jimin murmured, turning toward him.

“Nothing,” Yoongi muttered, running a soothing palm along Jimin’s thigh. “It’s just an interesting notion, that’s all.”

☽○☾

“When are you going to tell him?” Jungkook asked the morning before Yoongi’s birthday, when they were idling at the forest’s edge alone. The alpha was bundled up to his chin, glancing around warily as they waited for the rest of their team to show up.

Jimin shifted on his feet. He blew warm air into his cupped hands. “Tomorrow, I think.”

“You scared about it?”

“Why would I be?” Jimin asked, squinting up at him.

Jungkook shrugged. “It’ll change things.”

“Of course it will.”

“I mean, hunting things. To be honest, it’s gonna suck when you have to take time off.”

“Oh,” Jimin uttered, processing the notion. He worried his bottom lip. “Do you think I’ll have to stop right away?”

“It’s always dangerous, isn’t it?” Jungkook said. “From a practical perspective, it’s best that you’re out of the woods as soon as possible.” He paused, swaying. “Yoongi knows what it’s like to be out here, though. Knows how it’s going to feel to be out of commission for so many months. So I don’t know, really. I feel like he could be strict, but also sympathetic, y’know?”

“Yes,” Jimin sighed. “He’s my mate. I know.”

“I guess you should start learning how to knit,” Jungkook said lightly.

Jimin elbowed him with a roll of his eyes.

Jimin had thought about Jungkook’s words that whole day, incapable of denying the logic in his reasoning. Jimin couldn’t hide the pregnancy much longer, as Yoongi was so in tune with Jimin’s body and mannerisms. He might as well be the one to tell his mate, and on his own terms, too.

So Jimin made his decision. He steeled himself for his plan in the evening, going to bed with a tremor in his chest. He knew Yoongi was going to be happy. More than that—Yoongi was going to be overjoyed. There were so many important factors for them to discuss, however, and so many inevitable arguments to come.

Once the lights were out, Jimin clung to his mate tight, taking those last few moments to feel at ease. This unhindered comfort wouldn’t last much longer.

Jimin nuzzled into Yoongi’s neck, seeking out his mate’s scent even as he was shaking off the remaining tendrils of sleep. He was pressed flush to the alpha, Yoongi’s arm over his waist, their legs tangled. Jimin found his mating bite on alpha’s neck and began rubbing his nose against it, a purr rising in his chest.

Jimin’s clinginess had only intensified lately. His yearning to be close was nearly as strong as when they were newly mated. He felt a pull to be with Yoongi, to feel secure and cared for at all times.

Jimin felt sunlight warm on his cheek. They had decided to sleep in this morning, and he was happy to rise well after the sun for once. Yoongi also decided that he wanted an intimate birthday inside. No visitors or talk of work; only the small world within their home.

Yoongi stirred a bit, and Jimin held his breath. He had considered getting up earlier to make breakfast, then his brain kicked in—it’d be much better for them both if the matter was left in Yoongi’s hands. It was too late to make an attempt now, anyway, with Yoongi rousing. Yoongi exhaled slowly, nose pressed to Jimin’s hair.

“Happy birthday, Yoonie,” Jimin murmured, words slurred by grogginess. He wiggled up to gently kiss Yoongi’s cheek.

“Thanks, pup,” Yoongi mumbled. “‘S already the best yet, waking up with you here.”

“Did I not tell you? I live here now.”

Yoongi huffed; perhaps it was a laugh. He brushed his fingers through Jimin’s hair, mussing the mess atop his head further. Jimin didn’t have the heart to grumble.

“Do you wanna eat?” Jimin asked, opening his eyes and peering up at him.

“Is there an alternative?” Yoongi said gruffly, meeting Jimin’s hazy gaze.

“I’m still trying to decide when to give you your gift,” Jimin mused, heartbeat fluttering.

“Oh? I didn’t realize there was a gift involved,” Yoongi replied.

Jimin crawled over him, sitting up in Yoongi’s lap, palms planted on his chest for support. “Why? I’ve gotten you gifts before,” Jimin pouted.

“Sure, but you’re not much of a giver, Min. You like to be spoiled yourself,” Yoongi chuckled.

“Not my fault. I was a pampered kid,” Jimin justified, jutting out his lower lip.

“I suppose I didn’t help the situation much either.”

Jimin shook his head.

“Well, give me more to work off of here. Is the gift something special?” Yoongi prompted.

“Of course,” Jimin said firmly, a twinkle in his eyes and a flush to his cheeks. “It’s also a work in progress, though.”

Yoongi arched a quizzical brow at that. “Interesting,” he said. “Any others clues, or are you just going to give it to me?”

Jimin smiled mischievously, Yoongi eyeing him warily in turn. Jimin leaned down and brushed his thumb over Yoongi’s cheek. His lips hovered over the alpha’s for a long moment before he finally kissed him, gentle and languid. Jimin pulled away with hooded eyes.

“Are you sure you don’t want to eat first?”

“Jimin,” Yoongi sighed, feigning exhaustion. “You know you don’t always have to be a tease, right?”

“I enjoy it,” Jimin whined, a smile blooming in his expression. He was starting to stall at this point, delaying the inevitable with each coy word.

Yoongi sat up, shifting Jimin along with him, and rested against the headboard. “So?” He prompted, toying with the hem of Jimin’s large sweater. Well, Yoongi’s sweater, now that he thought about it.

Jimin took a deep, steadying breath. He grasped Yoongi’s hand, short fingers skimming over longer digits for a moment. Jimin opened Yoongi’s palm, lifted his own sweater, and set Yoongi’s hand over his flat belly. “This is your gift,” Jimin whispered, carefully gauging Yoongi’s reaction.

“What?” Yoongi chuckled. “Is it you? Because if so, I gladly accept.”

“Sort of,” Jimin replied, voice still quiet, tentative.

“Sort of?” Yoongi echoed, brows drawn in mild confusion. “I don’t...”

“It’s more than that. More than just me,” Jimin said slowly, heat creeping along his neck. The idea of stating it outright was just a little scary to Jimin. He wanted to allow them a lingering moment—a gentle revelation.

Thankfully, the realization began to dawn in Yoongi’s mind. His lips parted in mounting shock, eyes widening a visible fraction. His gaze was fixated on Jimin’s stomach, on his own palm splayed wide over it. The tension in his expression eased, all else replaced by awe. “Not just you. In...inside you,” Yoongi said slowly.

Jimin gave a small nod, watching him closely.

“There’s a pup inside you.”

Jimin sucked in a breath. Another nod as his throat constricted with emotion.

“I want you to say it,” Yoongi whispered. “It’s only gonna feel real once you say it.”

Jimin licked his lips, lungs heavy and heart stuttering. “Okay,” he breathed. He reached up and laid his hand over Yoongi’s. “Yoon, I-I’m pregnant.”

Yoongi exhaled a breath he had been holding, a smile on his lips as his shoulders eased. His arms wrapped around Jimin’s middle, and he tugged the omega into his embrace. He chuckled wetly, probably overcome by his own wave of joy and wonderment. There were tears in his eyes as he cupped Jimin’s cheek, pressing kiss after kiss of adoration upon the omega’s pink lips.

“I love you,” he mumbled into the minuscule space between them. “You’ve given me more than I could ask for.”

Jimin reached out and wiped away the tears sliding down Yoongi’s cheeks, fighting off a relieved sob of his own. Jimin shushed him, releasing comforting pheromones as he hugged Yoongi’s shoulders, resting their foreheads together.

“And I love you,” Jimin said, voice wavering. “You’re so good to me. No one else I’d want to have a pup with.”

Yoongi smoothed his palms over the curves of Jimin’s waist, settling on his hips to lift him up. He set Jimin on the mattress and rolled over him, tugging up the omega’s sweater as he lowered himself to the level of Jimin’s belly. Jimin watched him, head propped on the pillows, as Yoongi stared at his stomach with quiet reverence. He pressed his thumbs into the dips of Jimin’s hips, sliding up his touch until he was lightly pressing along the flat expanse of his abdomen.

“Hi, pup,” he murmured, voice still raspy. “I hope you’re doing alright in there. I’m sure Jimin’s keeping you plenty warm.”

Jimin giggled airily and reached down to play with Yoongi’s mussed hair.

“I’ll make him eat lots and lots so you both stay big and round, hm?”

“Yoon,” Jimin huffed. “The pup’s very tiny right now.”

“That’s why you have to eat so much,” Yoongi said, propping his chin up on his palm as he pouted at Jimin. “How else are they going to get bigger?”

“I’ll get bigger too, y’know.”

“Good. You’ll look even cuter,” Yoongi said firmly.

He leaned down to kiss Jimin’s tummy. Jimin thought it felt quite ticklish and tried to curl into himself, snickering while Yoongi held him down and continued to smatter kisses along his warm skin.

“Have you seen Hyunjae?” Yoongi asked, looking up at Jimin with an indescribable joy in his eyes.

“Mm, a few days ago,” Jimin mumbled. “The day I didn’t go on the hunt, because I was sick—and I really was. I’ve been sick in the mornings ever since. It’s been hard hiding it from you.”

Yoongi frowned. “I could have helped.”

“I wanted to wait and make this special,” Jimin sighed. “It’s made a nice gift, hasn’t it?”

“The best,” Yoongi relented. “Did she say how far along you are?”

“Just about a month,” Jimin said. “Probably won’t show for a couple more.”

Yoongi nodded, then rested his cheek against Jimin’s belly. “But you know you’re pregnant?”

“I do,” Jimin said softly. “The nausea, aversion to certain foods, my shift in scent, and... and I just feel it. I’m more tired and hungry, like my body’s working extra hard to support something. I don’t feel entirely like me anymore, but that’s a good thing—I’m positive there’s a pup in here.” Jimin inhaled a deep and steadying breath. “Of course, the timing lines up, too. We were really sexually active a month ago. I mean, no more so than usual. But it makes sense.”

“When do you think it happened? That first week of February?” Yoongi asked. He caressed Jimin’s side, eyelids drooping.

“Probably. I know we can’t ever confirm it, but I’d like to think it happened that night we were on the beach.”

Yoongi hummed. “I like that thought, too. Let’s go with that.”

Jimin chuckled and tangled his fingers in the thick hair at the back of Yoongi’s head. “I’ve been thinking about the nursery.”

“Yeah?”

“Yeah. I like the idea of yellow drapes,” Jimin mused. “And a mobile of stars over the crib.”

“We’ll need a crib first.”

“Not too soon.”

“You’re the one making early plans, Min.”

Jimin’s nose wrinkled with a snicker. “Alright, crib first. But I really want those hanging stars.”

“Then consider it done,” Yoongi murmured. “Any other requests?”

“We should start collecting furs for them,” Jimin said. “I know we have lots, but ones picked out especially for them. Lighter colors, really soft pelts. Maybe some blankets made of rabbit fur. The pup will be born in the autumn.”

“True,” Yoongi replied, considering. “I’ll keep my eye out for our prettiest catches. Only the best for your pup, Minie.”

“My pup?” Jimin questioned with mirth.

“You’re the one doing all the work at this point,” Yoongi said. “I think you have the right to claim ownership right now.”

Jimin chuckled and sighed. “Silly alpha.”

Yoongi was silent for a moment, absorbed with touching Jimin, holding him, as he gathered his thoughts. “I know you’re not going to enjoy this,” Yoongi began, “But it would be best if you stopped hunting.”

Jimin inhaled and shut his eyes, wondering how he could quell this argument before it had even begun. “It doesn’t have to be now. I’m still perfectly capable—”

“I don’t want you to injure the pup.”

“That would be very hard to do when it’s so tiny,” Jimin sighed. “I can still run.”

“That doesn’t mean you should. Don’t you want to take every precaution?” Yoongi asked, voice strained.

“Not if it means I’m stuck doing nothing for eight months or more,” Jimin grumbled.

“Jimin,” Yoongi sighed, holding him tighter. “This is what you’ve wanted for months now. I don’t understand why you’d put it at risk. You can transfer to the care facility temporarily, or whatever else you want to do—like, knitting maybe. Then you can go back to work once the pup’s born.”

“That’s not how it works. A newborn is going to need constant attention, and I’m the only one who can breastfeed them. It’ll be next spring before I get to hunt again. Why can’t I keep going for just two more months? I’ll be careful, you know I will—”

“I know,” Yoongi mumbled, taking a deep breath. “I just—worry, we both do. Things seem fine now, but we’re both aware of quickly that can turn around. It’s hard enough worrying over your safety. Adding one more doesn’t make it any better.”

“Can we make a compromise?” Jimin said weakly. “I can’t handle staying inside all spring.”

“I don’t know,” Yoongi said, exhaustion evident in his tone. “You can... you can do the bare minimum. No sprinting, no going head-first into a hunt. You can stay at the back of your group, guide the pup if you want.”

“I’ll track,” Jimin said. “I’m their best tracker. They’ll need me at the start of this season.”

“Fine,” Yoongi sighed. “But if I hear about you getting into trouble—”

“You won’t,” Jimin cut him off. “I can do this, Yoon. Trust me.”

Yoongi propped himself up and narrowed his eyes with suspicion. “I’m going to make you swear.”

“Alright,” Jimin said, eyes widening with false innocence.

“No scheming, Min.”

“When have I ever been one to deceive you?” Jimin gasped, hand to his heart. “I’m offended my own mate would make such bold accusations.”

Yoongi rolled his eyes and tickled Jimin’s side. Jimin squawked and tried to wriggle out from beneath him, breathless and frantic as Yoongi held him in place.

“You’re about as honest as a fox,” Yoongi said, shaking his head.

“I don’t know why,” Jimin uttered between giggles, “Foxes get such a bad rap.”

“They’re sly little fuckers.”

“Creative,” Jimin wheezed, “I’d argue.”

Yoongi stopped his assault, and Jimin flopped back down with a relieved sigh, cheeks flushed and lips parted. Yoongi sat up and admired the omega, dark hair a worse tangle than previously and sweater still ridden up past his belly.

Yoongi leaned down to nuzzle into Jimin’s neck, then up to pull him into a slow and warm kiss. Jimin moaned as Yoongi nipped at his lip, and wrapped his legs around the alpha’s hips. Yoongi was reluctant to part, all too happy to kiss any remaining breath out of Jimin.

Jimin tilted his head, forcing them apart, and inhaled a lungful. “So I suppose this is the part where we move on to food.”

“Tease,” Yoongi grumbled, tugging Jimin back in for more.

☽○☾

Yoongi gathered Jimin’s team the next morning under the hush of the morning air. They circled around him, heads ducked and voices low. “Jimin’s been demoted in his team standing,” Yoongi started off.

Jimin smacked his arm.

“It was just a joke,” Yoongi said quickly, rubbing the sore spot.

“Do you want to tell the truth, or should I?”

“I can handle it,” Yoongi retorted. “So, Jimin’s going to focus on tracking from here on out. No strenuous activity or dangerous situations.”

Jungkook seemed to be holding his breath, glancing between them with wide eyes.

Hoseok scrunched his brows. “Why, did you hurt yourself? How long?”

Jimin held out a placating hand. “I’m fine; no injuries. And we don’t know. It could be a month, two if Yoongi will let me last that long.”

“I’m still confused,” Hoseok said, frown only deepening when he looked at Jungkook, the younger barely containing himself.

Dasung was staring pretty intensely at Jimin. She blinked a couple times. “Oh!” She suddenly exclaimed, shaking them all into full alertness. She pointed directly at Jimin’s stomach. “You’re pregnant.”

Jimin shushed her. “Yes, but keep your voice down. We don’t need anyone else knowing yet. Especially not gossips like Hyejin,” Jimin said, warily glancing behind himself.

“Oh thank god someone finally said it,” Jungkook gasped, bending forward dramatically. “I’m terrible at keeping secrets.”

“You knew?” Hoseok gawked.

“I thought they did, then sort of broke the news to Jimin on accident.”

“Where was I?”

“A few feet off, trying not to get nauseous, too.”

“Huh,” Hoseok drawled.

“Anyway,” Yoongi said pointedly. “I can’t hang around to make sure he’s behaving, so you all need to keep him in check.”

“I’m not a child,” Jimin complained.

“You act like one at times,” Yoongi mumbled.

“Is that what you were thinking last night—”

Yoongi pressed a palm over Jimin’s mouth. He cleared his throat. “I assume you’ll still do fine with Jimin on the sidelines. If the new formation doesn’t work, we can stop and Jimin can transfer.”

Jimin pried Yoongi’s hand away. “It’ll work.”

Hoseok nodded. “We’ll make it work.”

Yoongi eyed them warily, but didn’t dispute. “Alright, that’s all I had to say, then. Go get ready to set out.”

As the group dispersed, Yoongi grasped Jimin’s wrist to hold him back. “Hey,” he said quietly. Jimin stalled and turned to face him. “Can you swear to me you’ll stay out of trouble?”

Jimin smiled at the softness to his tone. “I can promise.”

Yoongi shook his head. “Those two aren’t the same to you.”

“True,” Jimin breathed. Yoongi released him, and they twined their fingers together. “Then I swear to be good.”

“Tracking only.”

Jimin nodded.

“No, I want you to repeat it,” Yoongi murmured.

Jimin tilted his head and resisted teasing him further. His shoulders eased as he exhaled. “Tracking only.”

Jimin could admit that staying behind while the rest of his team made their kills was difficult during those following two weeks. He reasoned that it could be worse, though; he could be stuck at home, sleeping, eating, and incubating. At least he could still shift, stretch out his legs and feel the spring breeze in his fur.

Jimin and Yoongi got so caught up in their new routine that they forgot about their plans to visit Yoongi’s parents.

They finished their hunts early one day and arrived home with the sun still high in the sky. Jimin was just pulling off his largest coat when Yoongi idled in the entryway, an expression of consideration clear on his face.

“Let’s take a trip up the hill,” he said suddenly, startling Jimin to a stop.

“To the graves?” Jimin asked, coat sleeves halfway down his arms.

“Yeah. It’s a nice day, and they’d enjoy our company,” Yoongi said.

“Okay,” Jimin agreed, shrugging his furs back on the rest of the way.

They made the short trek up to the northern end of the territory, cresting a short hill and walking out to the other end. Yoongi kept a steadying hand on Jimin’s hip, their pace slowing as they neared the two familiar graves at the end of the grassy expanse.

Two stone-heads—one body beneath the earth.

They knelt between the two in careful silence, Yoongi’s palm settling on Jimin’s thigh. Jimin watched him through the corner of his eye, ready to offer comfort whenever his mate needed it.

“It’s been a while,” Yoongi said quietly. “Sorry.”

“We’ve been busy,” Jimin spoke up, rubbing Yoongi’s back. “But we’re here now to see you, Eomma and Appa. It’s such a lovely day for a visit, isn’t it? Have you been well?”

Yoongi curled his fingers into the long grass below them. He exhaled unsteadily and swallowed a rising lump in his throat. “A lot’s happened since we last talked.”

Jimin nodded with an encouraging smile. “Yoongi and I mated. I finally relented.”

“I know Eomma’s happy to hear that,” Yoongi whispered. “Eomma, you remember when Jimin first got here, don’t you? You were adamant he was going to be my mate since I first befriended him. It always seemed a little ambitious. Your son’s not exceptional enough to find a catch like this.”

Jimin snorted. “Don’t insult her like that. She made a beautiful pup,” Jimin snickered, kissing Yoongi’s cheek chastely. “And she raised you to be sweet.” He turned toward Sanghee’s grave. “You brought up a good boy, Eomma. A great mate.”

Jimin paused, licked his lips. “I think Yoonie’s going to make a great father, too.”

Yoongi’s gaze flickered to Jimin. “You’re really just putting that out there so soon.”

“Sanghee never liked secrets,” Jimin said mirthfully.

Yoongi huffed, then smiled. “We got mated in December, Eomma and Appa. We’ve wanted to have a pup since then. And, thankfully, it looks like we’ve got one now. Jimin says it happened in February.”

“We’re excited,” Jimin added. “A little scared, but mostly excited.”

“I’m gonna guess that fear is natural.”

“Of course. I bet your parents felt that, too. Good thing you turned out to be such a good kid. I mean, a moody one, but...”

Yoongi chuckled dryly and rubbed Jimin’s thigh. “Thanks, Minie.”

Jimin shifted closer and leaned into Yoongi’s side, slowly resting his cheek against his mate’s shoulder. “I know they’re happy, Yoon. Wherever they are.”

Yoongi nodded, gaze fixed on the small grassy spot between the graves. He took a deep breath. “I miss you,” he said to them, quiet and tentative. He seemed hesitant to admit it. “I know you’d tell me to keep my chin up, that we’re fine without you, but I wish—god, I just wish you could really see this. See us. Wish I had remembered to at least tell you I love you.”

Jimin shook his head and tightened his hold around his mate. “They know, Yoongi. They did then, and they still do now.”

☽○☾

Jimin found himself exhausted more often than not the further along he got. Not even two months pregnant, and he found himself napping on a nearly daily basis. One morning, Jimin helped his team track two separate deer on long and winding paths. Even that minimal effort left him drained.

Jimin settled in for a nap by the early afternoon, gathering a couple blankets and laying out on the couch. He arranged the blankets around himself precisely, noticing his nesting habits had only grown more intense.

Jimin nuzzled into the cushions at the back of the couch and curled into himself, quickly drifting into the comfort of sleep. Yoongi could wake him when he returned home.

Jimin was uncertain how much time passed, short dreams flooding into others. Then, with a burst of orange afternoon light, Jimin was blinking his eyes open, gazing around his living room blearily.

The house was empty. The sun was clearly setting, orange running down the bleeding horizon and spreading across their floors. Jimin was wondering why Yoongi hadn’t returned when a floorboard creaked. He paused and sat up. All he could smell was his mate’s stale scent, the most recent lingering from that morning. Yoongi wasn’t home.

Jimin’s body tensed with apprehension. He sniffed the air for an intruder, yet came up short.

Jimin slowly threw off the blankets, bare feet skimming the floor as he pushed himself up. He held a protective hand over his stomach as he took his first few steps. Jimin peered down the dark hall, panic restricting his throat.

“Yoongi?” He called, voice wavering.

No reply.

There was a patter of running feet. Little feet. Jimin’s heart stopped. A pup.

“Hello?” Jimin asked, tone higher in pitch. “Who’s there? Are you okay?”

He felt a parental sort of desperation sink in as he rushed forward, walking into the shadow of the hall. He heard more noise coming from the direction of the unfinished nursery. Jimin shifted to the left, stopping cold in the doorway.

The room was dim, yellow curtains closed to block out the weak light. There was a child standing in the center of the floor, no older than five. Jimin was prepared to reach out and comfort them, when his gaze landed on the child’s face.

Jimin met the eyes of his younger self.

The pup’s round cheeks were ruddy from the cold, dark eyes blank as he stared up at Jimin.

“What...” Jimin mumbled, unable to make sense of the scene before him. “What’s wrong?” He asked uneasily, bending down.

The pup’s lips parted. “They’re all going to die.”

Jimin’s breath hitched. “What?” He repeated.

“Everyone. Jihyun, Jaejae, Eomma,” the pup listed off, a spark of curiosity in the pup’s eye.

“No, everyone’s okay,” Jimin shushed, trying to assure him. “They’re all at home, probably eating dinner right now. Why don’t we go see them?” Jimin offered a hand.

The child did not step forward. “They’re going to die.”

Jimin inhaled a staggered breath, outstretched arm falling limp to his side. “Okay, that’s enough. Stop it.”

“But I’m right,” the pup seemed to taunt, expression still blank.

The room around them was fading, hazy grays replaced by heavy and smothering black.

“You’re a child,” Jimin said in a forcibly even tone. “You don’t know anything.”

“But you know, don’t you? You feel it,” the pup said. “They’re going to die. Your family, Yoonie.” He paused, raised his hand to point at Jimin’s belly. “That one, too.”

Jimin staggered back, arms wrapping over his midsection. “Shut up,” he snapped, quiet and hoarse.

“Nothing you can do about it.”

“Shut up.”

“One at a time, they’ll all fall. You know that, even if you won’t admit it. You feel it in your heart.”

“Shut up, shut up, shut up—”

“Because we know death, don’t we, Jimin?” The child said, eerily cold.

Jimin blinked through the bleariness in his vision. There was red staining the pup’s pants. The pup was standing in it, a pool of blood beneath his feet, spreading out along the floor surrounding them.

So much blood, Jimin thought. His own bare feet felt wet. He looked down slowly, a tight hand clamping down on his stuttering heart. Red on his skin. Creeping further, creeping up. Not his. Oh god, not his—

“First them, then us. We all die.”

Jimin couldn’t breathe. He wrapped his fingers around his throat, clawed at his chest. No air. Crimson everything.

“Jimin.”

His pup, Jimin remembered. How was he supposed to save his pup when the darkness was eating him alive?

“Jimin.”

Jimin was losing his vision, limbs going numb.

“Jimin!”

Jimin shot up, head swimming and vision blurred. He wasn’t in the nursery. Jimin was still firm on the couch, sun yellow and bright through the windows. His chest heaved as he finally inhaled breath after breath, aching lungs filling.

Jimin’s eyes were clearing up as his body fully returned to the waking world. Jimin was shaking and hot, sweat along the back of his neck.

Yoongi was standing at the end of the couch, leaning against the arm with lips parted around a voiced call. His gaze was fixed on Jimin, wide and glassy. There were tears running down his cheeks.

Jimin gaped as he searched Yoongi’s expression, worry flaring in his chest like a familiar nightmare. “What is it?” Jimin uttered. “Yoongi, what’s wrong?”

It was his family, wasn’t it? The child was right, Jimin thought. Of course something had happened. None of them were safe. He felt the threat like a parasite, deep beneath his skin.

Yoongi seemed to gather himself in those short two seconds. He blinked through more tears.

“It’s Wheein,” he rasped, voice weak and hoarse. “Out in the southeast, we were… She was just going ahead of us. It was so quick and loud. We—” His eyes were unfocused, scent telling of every ounce of panic and sorrow welling through him, overwhelming him like a spring flood. “We don’t know if she’s going to make it.”

Chapter Text

Jimin stumbled down the trodden path from his home, mind a fog of undiluted panic. He was still struggling to pull his coat around himself, hair in disarray and obscuring his sight. Yoongi was close behind him, breath coming out in short huffs. He grasped Jimin’s forearm, and the omega threw him off, charging ahead as if undisturbed.

“Jimin,” Yoongi growled.

“Not now,” Jimin insisted, voice hoarse and unsteady.

“There’s only one search party out. We don’t know—”

“Shut up,” Jimin hissed, abruptly twisting around. “What do you think I’m going to do, sit aside and wait for someone else to—to r-report to me?” He narrowed his eyes at his mate, chest heaving and heart clenched uncomfortably tight.

There were tears at the edges of Yoongi’s red eyes. He was clearly taken aback, stilling in his tracks as he took in Jimin’s determined posture and expression. “It’s not safe,” he said, voice hollow.

“Yet you’re out here, too,” Jimin retorted. He shifted around and marched on, a roaring in his ears as he set his sights on the infirmary. He could feel Yoongi close behind him meanwhile, probably searching their surroundings for a nonexistent threat.

Jimin was surprised how quickly Yoongi had snapped to attention after Jimin awoke. He was overcome by grief one moment, yet seemed to have the coherency to reel himself in for the sake of following after Jimin. Yoongi was surely steeling himself to deal with the ensuring chaos, though, and Jimin had no doubt he would grow distant in emotion and mannerisms. Yoongi had a hard time processing his own reaction before he moved head-first into solutions.

There was a small group of wolves hovering around the front of the infirmary, most of them hunters, pacing the dewy grass. Jimin’s team caught his scent over the heavy air of panic and lingering hint of blood. Hoseok turned toward him first, reaching out to pull Jimin into a hug as he approached.

Jimin was cradled to the alpha’s chest, more so for Hoseok’s comfort than Jimin’s. “I’m relieved you weren’t around when it happened,” Hoseok muttered, swaying with the omega in his arms.

“H-how long ago?” Jimin gasped, watery eyes watching as Hyejin slumped further against the wall, face pale and expression blank. Namjoon wasn’t far off, glancing between the sealed door and Yoongi, wringing his hands as he waited to speak with the head hunter.

“Twenty, thirty minutes now since the distress call,” Jungkook said, walking out from behind Hoseok, into Jimin’s line of sight. He was worrying his lower lip, gaze wandering and anxious. “Seok and I went straight out there. Followed the humans’ trail for ten minutes before we lost it near the lake. We’ve got wolves circling the woods now, though, in case something decided to backtrack.”

“A-and Wheein, she’s...” Jimin trailed off.

“It’s bad, Jimin,” Hoseok sighed, hugging him tighter. He pressed his nose to Jimin’s hair and shut his eyes.

“Stomach injury,” Jungkook said distantly. “We don’t know if it hit any organs. She was unconscious by the time Hyejin got her here. Even if nothing vital was hit, she lost a lot of blood.”

“What are we going to do about it? We can’t act like nothing happened, o-or keep living the same way. Someone else is going to—anyone could—” Jimin stopped, throat clenched.

“It’s the same as last year. We just don’t have a clue how to deal with this,” Jungkook growled, pacing around them. “But we’ve gotta fix it somehow. We’ve got families here to protect. Pups—” Jungkook halted mid-step, body rigid.

Jimin pulled away from Hoseok’s chest to peer at what had startled Jungkook. The youngest was staring wide-eyed at Taehyung, who was rushing toward them from the direction of the care facility. He had a stabilizing hand under his belly, cheeks red from the cold and distress.

“No, go home,” Jungkook said shortly, remaining still as his mate neared.

Taehyung staggered to a halt. “I had to make sure you were okay.”

“And I am. Leave,” Jungkook insisted, taking one step forward to press a firm hand to Taehyung’s waist, steering him away.

“Oh, Jiminie,” Taehyung gasped, catching sight of the other omega. He careened out of Jungkook’s reach and jogged up to Jimin, pulling him out of Hoseok’s embrace and into his own. “You weren’t with them, right?”

Jimin shook his head. “I was at home. Doing fuck all,” Jimin said, irritated over his own uselessness. “I wish I had been woken by the call. Then I could’ve at least tried to help.”

Taehyung grasped Jimin’s cheeks and forced him to look him in the eye. “Not with that pup,” he said, voice hoarse and pleading. Jimin blinked at him, taken aback. “Oh, I’m sorry. I know you’re waiting to tell everyone, but Kookie’s so terrible at keeping secrets.” Taehyung exchanged a wary look with his mate. “I’m sorry it had to happen like this, under these circumstances.”

“We just have to work harder to make sure this place is safe for a pup,” Jungkook muttered.

“Calm down. No humans have made it this far into our territory,” Taehyung snapped.

“Yet,” Jungkook corrected. “If they get any closer, I might consider packing up and leaving.”

“Don’t be ridiculous, Kook.”

“You really want to raise our kids under these conditions?”

“Of course not, but there has to be a more reasonable solution,” Taehyung huffed.

“We can kill them,” Hyejin said dully from a short distance off. She was staring at the ground, jaw tense. “Hunt ‘em like we do every other animal.”

Jungkook shook his head, exasperated. “You’re insane.”

“That’s how you send a message to predators, pup. You show them who’s really at the top of this hierarchy.”

“You want our hunters to just get decimated, huh? Because that’s what you’re suggesting—a death sentence,” Jungkook said, lip curling up into a snarl.

“It could also anger the humans. They might start tracking us seriously, following us back home, to our kids and mates,” Hoseok said grimly.

Jungkook stiffened and shifted closer to Taehyung, hand finding the small of his back.

The infirmary door slammed open then, startling them all. Hyunjae stepped out, frown twisting her expression. Her hands were stained red, as if she had quickly wiped them off, yet failed to wash away the blood completely. Jimin tried not to stare at the red spatters on her shirt.

“I know you’re all concerned, but your aggressive pheromones are screwing with the medics while we try to work,” Hyunjae said, brow furrowed and voice gruff. “I’d suggest going home for now. It’ll be a long while before we have anything to report.”

Hoseok scoffed and brushed his hair back. “Not to be disrespectful, Head Healer Park, but do you really expect us to sit peacefully at home?”

“No, but I do expect you to leave, at the very least. Occupy yourselves however you want. Just give us space.”

“Home?” Jimin belatedly echoed, voice small. Jimin didn’t think he’d survive sitting idly at home while this was going on.

Hyunjae blinked and zeroed in on Jimin, seemingly shocked to find him here. “Where’s your mate?” She asked quickly, somewhat harshly.

“Yoongi is...” Jimin began, suddenly confused. Yoongi had met up with Namjoon, yet now they were gone.

“He left to discuss this with Namjoon in the pack alpha’s office,” Hoseok filled in, awkwardly clearing his throat as Hyunjae’s expression soured.

“He left Jimin alone?”

Jimin shook his head. “It’s okay, Ma,” he insisted, words drowned out as Hyunjae stepped forward and herded him toward Jungkook.

“Get him home safe,” Hyunjae said to Jungkook. “Apparently this ordeal has got Yoongi’s head up his ass, and he forgot his family should come first.”

“Ma,” Jimin groaned. “It’s his job—”

“Go inside,” Hyunjae cut him off. “You’re not ending up on my fucking operating table, too.”

Jimin flinched, eyes wide. He was certain he’d never heard Jae use such harsh language before. Her expression was firm and steely, though, to match her unwavering voice. Her rare show of alpha control sparked a reaction within Jimin, urging him to shut his mouth and follow Jungkook’s guiding hand on his waist.

The infirmary door rattled after Hyunjae shut it behind her. Hyejin made no effort to move from her place on the wall. She merely watched Jungkook through narrowed eyes.

“I’m serious, pup. Our only solution is staring us dead in the eye,” she said, as if they hadn’t been interrupted.

Jungkook shook his head, jaw clenched. “I can’t do this right now,” he said, a harsh rumble in chest. He guided Taehyung and Jimin away, blocking Jimin’s view of the alpha they were leaving behind.

Taehyung clung to Jimin’s arm as they walked in tense silence toward their homes. Jungkook’s grip remained tight on their waists, his attention unfaltering as he stared at the line of trees beyond.

“Yoongi should have stayed with you,” Taehyung murmured.

“I don’t want to argue about this.”

“Your mate should be there for you when you’re scared. That’s his job—to comfort you and keep you safe.”

“I’m sure whatever he’s discussing with Namjoon is important,” Jimin mumbled with little conviction.

“The conversation can wait.”

“Tae,” Jungkook cut in, tone a warning in itself.

“What?” Taehyung retorted, squinting at Jungkook. “Don’t defend him. Would you walk away from your pregnant mate in this situation?”

“No, but I’m not in charge of all the pack’s hunters,” Jungkook replied. “Besides, we all know Yoongi. We know how he deals with these things. He’s a leader and a problem-solver.”

“I still don’t think that’s an excuse,” Taehyung muttered.

“Taehyung,” Jungkook sighed. “It’s okay. Jimin’s got us to watch out for him.” He leaned in and pressed a kiss to Taehyung’s head before guiding them directly to the couple’s cabin.

“I can walk from here,” Jimin said quietly, intending to turn and head toward his own home.

“No, you shouldn’t be alone,” Taehyung said, refusing to relinquish his hold on Jimin’s arm. He walked the elder omega up their front steps and through the door, fretting over Jimin until he was safe inside.

Jungkook latched the door for good measure.

Coats hung up and cautious stillness in the air, Taehyung pulled Jimin toward his couch, still set up into a messy nest smelling heavily of Taehyung’s now very milky scent.

“Sit down, settle in,” Taehyung urged, pushing Jimin down onto the blankets. “I’ll make us tea.”

“Yoongi will be looking for me,” Jimin said with hesitation, curling his hands into the soft fabric below him.

“If he’s smart, he’ll know where to find you,” Taehyung said, moving toward the kitchen. Jungkook trailed after him, still on high alert. He had an arm around Taehyung’s waist, but the omega paid no mind to his hovering presence.

Taehyung set about lighting the stove to boil water. He retrieved two mugs and sifted through another cabinet for the tea leaves. Meanwhile, Jimin settled his hands in his lap, fiddling with his fingers, trying to distract his mind from wandering. He didn’t want to think of the outside world right now.

Jimin eventually folded his hands over his stomach, subconsciously protective despite the lack of threat within these walls.

Taehyung gasped, nearly falling into the counter as tried to grab the tin of tea leaves. Jungkook quickly helped steady him, reaching out to retrieve the tin instead. Taehyung frowned and glared at the high cupboard as if it had personally offended him.

“It’s my damn stomach. I can’t lean into anything,” Taehyung grumbled.

“Be careful,” Jungkook said, absently rubbing Taehyung’s belly. Taehyung had grown much rounder over the past few weeks, and at an astounding pace. Jimin thought he’d be ready to pop now, rather than in two more months.

Taehyung turned to fix the tea, hand under the curve of swollen belly, a pout on his lips. “I want my body back.”

“Soon,” Jungkook said with a hint of amusement. “Are you ready to deal with a wailing pup instead?”

Taehyung arched a brow. “I deal with a wailing pup every day,” he stated, poking his mate’s chest.

Jungkook gaped dramatically. “I don’t wail.”

“What would you call it, then? I don’t think it’s mere complaining.”

“I just like attention, alright?”

“Oh trust me, I know,” Taehyung sighed.

“I guess I should be grateful you put up with me, huh?” Jungkook teased.

Taehyung rolled his eyes, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. “Go light the fireplace, please. It’s getting chilly in here.”

Jungkook snickered at his aversion, then leaned in to peck Taehyung’s cheek. “Okay, love.”

Soon Taehyung was waddling over with two mugs in hand. Jimin scooted over to allow him room. Taehyung snuggled up very close to Jimin, setting their steaming tea at the table before them. Taehyung leaned into Jimin’s shoulder, wrapping himself around the elder’s arm. Jimin instinctively eased into him, comforted by both the familiarity and milky hint to Taehyung’s scent. Jimin wondered if he’d smell just as soothing as time went on.

“How far along are you?” Taehyung asked.

Jimin shut his eyes and sunk back into the cushion behind them. “Two months.”

Taehyung hummed. “Your tummy will start growing really fast after three months. Then time is just gonna fly by.”

“I don’t know if I want time to fly by. It feels safer having them in here,” Jimin mumbled.

“Fair,” Taehyung replied. “Are you scared?”

“Of course.”

“Excited at all?”

Jimin paused. “I was,” he said slowly. “At first, I really was. Now the fear’s tinging everything. I’m not sure how to feel anymore.”

“Just wait until you can feel them kicking,” Jungkook cut in, sitting cross-legged in front of the fireplace, orange light dancing across the smooth planes of his face. “It changes everything.”

Taehyung nodded, exhaling. “Really does. Starts feeling like a real person in there. I thought it’d be impossible to love them any more, but after that... I do. God, I do.”

“Will you guys really leave if things get worse?” Jimin said meekly.

Jungkook leaned back on his palms and took a deep breath. “Yeah, I think so.”

Taehyung observed his mate through hooded eyes, listening without dispute.

“You’d leave your pack for the sake of your family?”

“Jimin,” Jungkook said tiredly, “There’s no one in this pack I love more than Taehyung. No one I care about more. If I need to put distance between us and this territory, I will.”

“I kinda figured you were more loyal than that,” Jimin said calmly, without accusation.

Jungkook shrugged. “We all have our priorities.” Well, Jimin couldn’t disagree with that. “And what about you? I know Yoongi would never leave, but hypothetically... Would you?”

Jimin reached out to wrap his hands around his mug and began to blow at the surface, watching the water ripple. He pulled his bottom lip between his teeth, hesitant to voice his thoughts. Honestly, it wasn’t a possibility that Jimin wanted to entertain in the first place.

“I don’t think so,” Jimin said with hesitance. “At least, not alone. If it was the whole pack leaving, that would be another story. This pack is my family, so taking off with my pup seems... well, unthinkable.”

“I understand,” Jungkook murmured.

“We’ll stay for now though, huh Kookie?” Taehyung mumbled, nuzzling into Jimin’s bicep. “I want Jiminie to meet our baby.”

“I hope so,” Jungkook said, watching Taehyung fondly.

“So how’s Yoongi feel about the pup?” Taehyung prompted.

“He’s happier than I am, I think,” Jimin replied, reminiscing on how Yoongi had been returning his clinginess in full. He always had his hands on Jimin when they were together, touch often drifting to his stomach. He would also rest his cheek against Jimin’s bare belly at night while Jimin was drifting off, claiming he just wanted to be as close to the pup as he could get. “He’s going to start making the crib soon.”

“You’re already planning the nursery?” Taehyung said.

“Yup. Picked out a color scheme and everything,” Jimin replied. “I don’t want to do any of it last minute.”

“Sounds impatient,” Taehyung mused.

“Sounds eager,” Jungkook corrected. “Maybe you’re more excited about this than you think.”

Jimin blinked at him. “Yeah, I guess you’re right.”

He sipped at his tea once more and placed it back down. He eventually settled into Taehyung, the two of them sprawled out on the couch, cuddled into his nest. Jimin pressed his nose to Taehyung’s neck, inhaling his scent as he shut his eyes, hoping to block out the ache in his chest.

Jimin didn’t realize he had drifted off until he was roused by a hand on his shoulder. There were distant voices in the background, mumblings slowly growing more clear as he returned to consciousness.

“There will be patrols all day.”

“And that’s supposed to make us feel better?”

“It’s better than nothing, Kook. We’ll figure something else out later, once the pack has settled somewhat.”

“How bad is the panic?”

“Wolves have been holing themselves up at home. Although that’s probably the best thing they can be doing now, anyway.”

“Yoongi?” Jimin whispered groggily, blinking through the bleariness in his eyes at the blurry figure of his mate above him. Yoongi slowly came into focus, and Jimin sighed, nuzzling into the hand that moved to cup his cheek.

“Hey, pup. You ready to go home?” Yoongi asked softly.

Taehyung’s body was still warm at Jimin’s back, arm thrown loosely over his waist.

“You abandoned him. You don’t get to take him back so easily,” Taehyung grumbled, a slight snarl reverberating through his voice as he tightened his hold around Jimin.

Yoongi arched a brow in challenge. “I appreciate you taking him in for the afternoon, but I can’t say it’s your place to criticize me during a state of emergency.”

“Take care of your damn mate, Min,” Taehyung said, peering up at Yoongi through narrowed eyes.

Taehyung’s words shook Jimin from his hormone-induced haze. He had been so happy to be reunited with his alpha, he had forgotten the pretense under which they had split.

Jimin sat up with an ache along his spine, head spinning for a moment. Jimin shook off Taehyung and leaned away from Yoongi, very slowly detaching himself from the dip he had created in the sofa. Jungkook watched him carefully as Jimin distanced himself from the bickering wolves. Jimin silently retrieved his coat, standing on unsteady legs.

“Goodnight, guys. Be safe,” Jimin said, eyes drooping and words slurred.

Taehyung and Yoongi snapped to attention, suddenly realizing the wolf they had been arguing over had already left them.

“Come over anytime,” Taehyung called as Jimin pulled open the door, stepping out onto the porch with a palm over his belly.

The sun was an orange blip on the horizon, warm hues overtaken by the navy hue of the evening. The air was colder than it had been for days. Yet, when Yoongi trod after him and touched his lower back, Jimin merely felt a weight settling within him.

“I’m not helpless,” Jimin sighed, shrugging off Yoongi’s supporting hand.

“Are you tired? You sound tired,” Yoongi said with a deepening frown.

“I am. And I’m annoyed,” Jimin said simply, eyes on the path ahead.

“Over what?” Yoongi asked, swimming in the pause between them. “Oh, is this the game we’re playing? You’re just not gonna tell me?”

“Maybe I’m not in the mood to talk, Yoon,” Jimin grumbled. He felt Yoongi’s hand on his bicep. Something snapped in Jimin, perhaps his resolve. He turned around and hissed.

Yoongi took a very calculated step back, hand held out in a placating motion. “I’m sorry,” he enunciated, clearly confused, yet trying to gauge Jimin’s expression. Jimin could see the tension evident in his shoulders—his internal battle as he chose Jimin’s wishes over his protective instincts.

“I don’t want you touching me right now,” Jimin said, eyes narrowed and breath quickened. “I don’t want you prodding me, or telling me what to do. Not after today. Not after you—you told me to stay home, like it wasn’t my place to question what you want. Not after you took off with really telling me what was going on. You don’t get to touch me and act like everything’s okay.”

Yoongi inhaled deeply and looked around them, posture apprehensive. A slight breeze disturbed the otherwise still air, rustling branches a mere murmur behind them. “Can we please take this inside?”

Jimin huffed and shifted, turning away from his mate without another utterance. He practically stomped off, well aware of Yoongi trailing behind him, a cautious eye on their surroundings. Jimin threw open their door rather harshly and retreated to their room to change into more comfortable clothes.

Jimin stopped by the bathroom to wash off his face, an icky feeling settled in his gut. The sound of running water drowned out the noise Yoongi was making in the kitchen, the alpha setting water to boil and dishes clattering. Jimin stared at his unusually pale complexion as water ran down his cheeks in cold rivulets, reminiscent of tears long overdue.

Jimin reluctantly returned to the living room, fiddling with his hands in front of him while Yoongi remained at the kitchen counter, back turned to Jimin.

“What did you talk about with Joon?” Jimin asked quietly, weak voice reflecting his emotional exhaustion.

Yoongi heaved a sigh and turned around, slumping into the counter behind him. There were two mugs set out, clean and glimmering under the hazy candlelight. Burning wood popped in the background; Yoongi must have found the time to light a fire, too.

“It was less talk. More... more contained panic. We don’t know what the fuck we’re doing,” Yoongi replied, running an anxious hand through his hair. He set his gaze on the drapes behind Jimin, expression distant.

“I’m guessing no hunting for a while?”

“We can’t keep living like that, though,” Yoongi said. “Even Joon agrees. We can hide away in our little valley, convert to being herbivores. But what good is that going to do in the long run? Today’s attack was further inland of our territory than anything previous. The humans are getting bolder. They’ll only continue to close in until we have nowhere else to hide.”

Yoongi’s words hung in the air, prickling beneath Jimin’s skin, cold as they settled in his heart.

“So what are we going to do?” Jimin whispered.

Yoongi released a mirthless chuckle, shoulders raised in a shrug. “That’s the question we can’t figure out, huh? We run or we fight, right? But both of those could have terrible consequences. Not that we even—” Yoongi shook his head, brows pinched. “Not that we even have anywhere to run.”

“So we fight,” Jimin said slowly.

“And we die,” Yoongi added, withholding none of his bluntness. “They’ve got weapons we couldn’t even imagine. We could equip our wolves with bows to try our hand at long distance, but those are nowhere near as quick or fatal as their weapons. We could try to find where they come from, but then we have to ask what kind of people we are, if...”

“What is that supposed to mean?” Jimin asked in the space Yoongi left behind. There was an edge of fear to Jimin’s tone. “Humans or not, we don’t touch enemies’ pups.”

“What if they come after ours?” Yoongi retaliated. “Look, Jimin. I’m all for mercy and morality, but if my family is in danger, then I think we could use some leniency.”

“And I’m gonna bet they’d use that same reasoning if we go after them,” Jimin said lowly, watching Yoongi’s expression as his tension only mounted.

“A bear can’t reach your den if you kill it first.”

Jimin blinked. He crossed his arms over himself. “The bear only deserves to be killed if it’s heading toward your den.”

“It’s a bear all the same, Jimin.”

“Stop it,” Jimin muttered, pursing his lips and stepping back. “We’re making too many assumptions. We don’t even know their reasoning.”

“They’re killing us. Who gives a fuck about motive?”

“I do! How else are we going to negotiate?”

“For fuck’s sake. You think those animals are going to listen to what wolves have to say?” Yoongi growled.

Jimin narrowed his eyes. “Even if you don’t want to try, I can. I will—”

“Don’t be ridiculous, Jimin,” Yoongi scoffed. “You’re not getting anywhere near a human if I can help it.”

“You can’t control me when I’m out with my team,” Jimin retorted.

Yoongi’s gaze hardened. “You’re not going out again.”

Jimin paused for a long moment, shock settling within his limbs, freezing him in place. “Excuse me?” He whispered.

“You are done hunting,” Yoongi enunciated, finally meeting Jimin’s eyes with a frigid firmness.

Jimin’s first reaction was to laugh, Yoongi’s tone and demeanor completely at odds with the kind and considerate alpha he had always known. Yoongi was basically commanding Jimin to quit working, to abandon his single purpose in this pack.

“I have to help somehow,” Jimin said, voice pitched with confusion. “I can’t lay around and do nothing just because I’m pregnant.”

“It’s not just about you anymore, Jimin,” Yoongi hissed. Yoongi pushed himself off the counter and Jimin stumbled back a step. “What happened to Wheein today very well could’ve been you. If we hadn’t been so lucky, you could be the wolf bleeding out right now. Our pup would be dead, and you may not be far from death either.”

Jimin’s chest heaved as his breathing picked up, horrified of the image Yoongi was so starkly painting for him. “No,” Jimin said in a small voice. “I have my team. We look out for each other.”

“You think I wasn’t looking out for Wheein? You think I wasn’t careful, wasn’t doing everything in my power to help her?”

“That’s not what I meant—”

“That’s what it fucking sounded like,” Yoongi said, expression and tone cold as the shrill wind against their window panes.

He took a shuddering breath and stepped closer to Jimin. Jimin curled into himself and leaned away, rooted to the floor. Jimin’s distress was rolling off of him, spiked scent filling the room and sapping the comfort from his once warm home. Yoongi didn’t notice, however, too consumed by his own anger and desperation.

“If it’s going to be a goddamn bloodbath out there, you’ll be nowhere near it,” Yoongi pushed on.

“This pack is my family,” Jimin insisted. “I took an oath to protect. It’s my duty as a hunter—”

“If you’re going to bring up status, then I’ll remind you who your superior is.”

Jimin’s lips parted halfway to an outcry, voice dying in his throat. He wrapped his arms over his belly. “You can’t do that,” Jimin said quietly, a wavering edge to his tone. “Don’t abuse your authority for your own fucking gain.”

“It’s not just my gain!” Yoongi said, frustration overtaking him. “This is your pup, too! I’m shocked you’re even putting up a fight over this. You’re seriously considering putting this pack before your child?”

“It’s not as easy as you’re making it out to be!” Jimin protested, voice cracking.

“You wanted this so badly, and you’re still willing to put it at risk? Ready to go out there and get both of you killed?”

“Yoongi,” Jimin plead. He felt like he was talking to a goddamn wall. Yoongi wasn’t processing his reasoning in the slightest. “I can’t sit here and watch my friends get injured. Can’t just watch them die! You have to understand.”

“And I can’t lose you!” Yoongi shouted. Silence strung out in the stagnant air around them, Yoongi’s fear and anger palpable. The alpha closed the distance, cupping Jimin’s cheek. His expression was pleading, gaze searching Jimin’s. “They took my parents, Min. I know we both remember it too clearly. Now you’re the only family I have. Losing you, losing this pup... you’d just be ripping out my heart. Even death would be better than that.”

“I love you, and I understand,” Jimin whispered. He reached up to rest his palm over Yoongi’s. “But this is all too raw right now. I can’t deal with it. I need to—to breathe.” Jimin pulled Yoongi’s hand away, then relinquished his grip. He stepped away, eyes watering.

Yoongi stood still as Jimin retreated to the front door, fully intending to wrap himself in furs and set out on the familiar path to the Jeons’ house. “I think I need to stay with Tae tonight, to clear my head and give us both some time to process this.”

Yoongi sucked in a sharp breath. Jimin could smell the alpha’s panic, his body reacting in full as his knees went weak and heart-rate sped up. Jimin only made it far as touching the coat rack before Yoongi snarled.

“Omega, stop,” he commanded, tone harsh and unwavering.

Jimin’s body seized up, incapable of fighting his instinct to submit. His arm dropped to his side. Jimin inhaled deeply, shock coursing through him as he tried to process what Yoongi had just done. An alpha’s command was more than authoritative—it was demeaning to the omega on the receiving end. Jimin couldn’t wrap his around the notion of his Yoongi doing that to him.

Jimin blinked a couple times, tears falling free. He finally looked at Yoongi, hoping the alpha saw every bit of pain Jimin was feeling.

“Stay,” Yoongi uttered, tone gentle and almost apologetic. His gaze was flitting to the door, desperation evident. He was terrified of Jimin stepping outside alone, or being out of his sight at all. That command was still unforgivable, though.

At Jimin’s lack of response, Yoongi moved closer, needing to comfort Jimin.

A sob wracked Jimin’s body, and Yoongi stopped short. “No,” Jimin hiccupped. “Don’t. You don’t get to hold me. You lost that right.”

“Pup, I’m sorry,” Yoongi whispered, eyes wide and scent distressed.

“I don’t care,” Jimin shook his head. His vision was blurry beyond comprehension, yet he rushed past Yoongi all the same.

Jimin intended to lock himself in their room, but he made it merely to the doorway when Yoongi’s heady scent him. The room smelled too much like him. For once, it did not bring Jimin comfort.

Jimin quickly tugged two blankets off the foot of their bed, then turned around and made a determined path to the couch. He dropped his blankets onto the cushions, eyes meeting Yoongi’s only briefly.

Yoongi sighed. “At least sleep in the bedroom. I can stay out here,” Yoongi said, catching on to Jimin’s plans. “Please.”

“No,” Jimin said stiffly. “I’m staying here tonight, and you’re going to leave me alone.”

“Jimin—”

“Stop,” Jimin whispered, roughly wiping the tears off his ruddy cheeks. “You’ve said enough.”

Yoongi’s lips were parted, hanging on a reply he was not allowed to utter. Yet he gave Jimin space, walking toward the hall with an apology on his tongue.

“Goodnight, Min Yoongi,” Jimin said with finality, urging his mate to leave.

Jimin waited until he begrudgingly retreated before collapsing onto the couch. Jimin very slowly arranged the blankets, adding them to the nest he’d already been building out here. Jimin curled into the furs with a shiver, an ache deep in his chest.

He listened to the floorboards creak as Yoongi moved through the other end of the house. Jimin buried himself against the cushions, blocking out the candle and firelight. Minutes passed before he let himself cry.

☽○☾

“If you’ve still got morning sickness, we can pick up ginger from Jin,” Taehyung said, breaking the awkward silence of their table.

“Mm,” Jimin mumbled.

Taehyung was watching Jimin with mild concern as the elder picked at his food. His gaze occasionally flickered to Yoongi, seated a good foot away from Jimin. They’d barely spoken all morning, and hadn’t touched at all.

Jimin had woken to a cold living room, fire long died out. Yoongi was slumped into an armchair, still asleep and facing the front door. He must have returned after Jimin drifted off, and apparently tried to stay up to watch over him. The dark bags under Yoongi’s eyes were evidence enough of how little rest he had gotten.

Yoongi wasn’t himself in the first place, though. He was apprehensive and paranoid, constantly looking over a shoulder no matter where they were. He made no effort to reconciling with Jimin, simply keeping his distance and allowing Jimin to maintain a steady lack of communication.

Jimin was worried over what was going on inside Yoongi’s head.

Yoongi was surely simmering in his own regrets and worries. As much as Jimin was tempted to help, he was still hurt over the previous night. Maybe matters would be better if Yoongi could manage to pull himself out of his dark headspace. But for now, the alpha was a quiet bundle of nerves. Jimin had a dreadful feeling that Yoongi was reaching his boiling point.

Jimin startled when Namjoon stepped behind them, ushering Yoongi away to speak with him privately. Yoongi stood, chair scratching against the hardwood, and followed after Namjoon, barely brushing past Jimin as he went.

The absence of his mate was slowly losing its sting.

“Quiet in here today,” Taehyung observed, attempting to make conversation.

“Yup,” Jimin stated. He split his mound of rice in half, then into fourths, distant gaze focused on the messy plate beneath him.

“I’m not surprised. Just about everyone has locked themselves inside,” Jungkook said dully. He seemed to have lost his appetite, sliding the remainder of his food toward Taehyung.

“Are there still alphas out on patrols?” Taehyung asked.

“A few, I think.”

“I wonder how other packs deal with this.”

“Find allies, maybe. Pack up and go, if they can.”

“We’ve got smart wolves. I’m sure we’ll figure something out.” Taehyung’s silverware screeched against his plate. “I hate this grim mood. Feels like the damn world is ending.”

“Probably feels like it is for some people,” Jimin murmured. “We’ve got no precedence for this. It’s even scarier for people who can’t help—people who just have to sit on the sidelines and watch as their world goes to shit.”

“Jimin,” Taehyung sighed. Jimin looked at him with bleary vision. “What happened last night?”

“We civilly discussed our difference in opinion.”

Taehyung’s pretty face wrinkled up in a frown. “Was it bad?”

“I wanted to stay with you,” Jimin said, dropping the false blank demeanor, expression falling. He felt weak and exposed—too vulnerable. But all Taehyung retaliated with was sympathy.

“He wouldn’t let you go?” Taehyung asked gently.

“He commanded me not to go.”

Jungkook stiffened, lip curling into a snarl. “Yoongi wouldn’t do that.”

“Then who was I arguing with last night?” Jimin said, shoving his meal away. “Looked like my mate. Yet it didn’t sound like him. I don’t know why he’s reacting like this, but...” Jimin wrapped his arms around himself. “I wish it was over with. I want Yoongi back, not this aggressively protective alpha.”

“Maybe he needs time,” Taehyung suggested.

“And that’s what I said. But he wouldn’t listen. It’s like my opinion meant nothing to him. He refused to see things from my perspective. It—it hurt.”

“And he still won’t talk to you.”

Jimin shook his head. “God, I just feel awful.”

Taehyung reached out and grasped Jimin’s hand. “I’m sorry,” he muttered. “This stress must be terrible for the pup.”

“Don’t remind me.”

Jimin was hit with the sudden heavy scent of grief, startled out of his emotional reverie. Jimin glanced up as Hyejin joined them, settling a few seats away from Jimin. She looked awful, eyes sunken, hair messily pulled back, and expression empty.

“H-how’s Wheein?” Taehyung cautiously asked.

Hyejin stabbed her fork into her food and shrugged. “Alive.”

“Well, the first night is the hardest,” Taehyung offered.

Hyejin grunted, yet offered no real response.

“If you need anything, let us know,” Jungkook said.

“I need the fuckers who did this to be wiped from existence. Can you help me with that?” Hyejin retorted.

“Ahn, please,” Jungkook sighed. “Let’s not do this again.”

“How am I supposed to sleep again knowing those humans who hurt my omega are still out there? We didn’t land a single injury on them, but they might just be the reason Wheein dies. You really expect me to lay off?” Hyejin growled, settling her stubborn gaze on the younger alpha.

“We’re all upset, too. But we can’t be jumping into rash decisions—”

“What would you do if it was your omega?” Hyejin said coldly. She nodded toward Taehyung. “I’m gonna bet you’d be ready to snap some necks if it was him you had to watch bleed out, yeah?”

A growl rumbled in Jungkook’s chest. “Don’t bring him into this.”

“But you know I’m right,” Hyejin insisted, leaning forward.

Jimin felt her frustration like a physical prickling along his skin. Her scent was overwhelming, setting his nerves on edge.

“You’d want revenge. You’d want that scum dead and gone. And you wouldn’t bat an eye at any damn pup who has moral disagreements over it,” Hyejin continued, looking Jungkook in the eye, unshaken by the venom in his gaze.

“I’m not stupid enough to put the rest of my pack at risk for the sake of my own stupid agenda,” Jungkook said lowly, clearly. “And I think Wheein would agree with me; it’s not worth the risk.”

“What would you know?” Hyejin retaliated.

“She’s a gentle wolf. She cares too much about you to want you to go on some—some enraged hunt for the humans who hurt her,” Jungkook insisted. “Just stay by her side for now. Don’t endanger the rest of us.”

Hyejin shook her head. “She’s also no coward. I don’t know why you became a hunter, if this isn’t even the least you can do to protect your pack.”

“You’re really calling me a coward right now?” Jungkook said incredulously. “I’ve given everything for this pack—”

“You grab your mate and hide at the first sign of trouble,” Hyejin cut in. “You’ve got no room to speak. At least my omega and I fight, no matter what’s at stake.”

Jungkook stood rather suddenly, chair screeching across the floor as he leaned forward, sneering at Hyejin. “Bring my mate into this one more time—”

He was wrenched away before he could finish, however, forcibly pushed back into his seat by a fuming Yoongi.

“Shut up, both of you,” Yoongi snapped, eyes narrowed and jaw clenched. He looked prepared to quiet them himself if they uttered one more word. His chest heaved with labored breathing, gaze dark as it raked over the frozen hunters. “I don’t care what the fuck you’re fighting about. I don’t care about whatever insults were thrown. You do not devolve into squabbling pups in a time of crisis.”

Hyejin sank back, face pale as she stared up at him. Jungkook leaned into Taehyung, seemingly ready to grab the omega and bolt.

“Your fellow hunter is barely hanging on, and the best you could think to do was yell at each other in the middle of the goddamn dining hall? Grow up. Take a breath, think about your fucking actions, and make up. If we are going to get anything done, you will learn to work together. Am I understood?” He enunciated, cold and clear.

“Yes,” the wolves said in unison, voices meek.

“This is too much, I swear,” Yoongi muttered. He stepped back and pinched the bridge of his nose, seemingly pained.

Jimin lurched to his feet, ignoring the residual ache in his heart, feeling the call to help his mate. Jimin rounded the table and reached out, a comforting hand settling on Yoongi’s arm.

“I can’t—” Yoongi growled, wrenching himself away. “Not now, Jimin. I can’t deal with this.”

Jimin swiftly cradled his hand to his chest as if burned. He stared at Yoongi wide-eyed as the alpha stalked away, ignoring Jimin’s reaction as he moved toward the dining hall’s exit.

The rejection settled heavy in Jimin’s gut.

Taehyung was already shushing him when he stood, rushing to engulf Jimin in his warm embrace as the elder’s eyes welled with tears. “I know,” Taehyung crooned, tucking Jimin’s head under his chin. “I’m sorry, sweetie.”

“I just wanted to—to—”

“Shh,” Taehyung repeated, rubbing his back. “It’s okay. He didn’t mean to reject you, I promise.”

“He’s very stressed right now, Jimin. He’s taking the blame for this entire ordeal,” Jungkook said, standing as well. “He’s probably going out for air. Might take a run to clear his head. It’ll hit him later, and he’ll feel terrible once he understands.”

“I don’t w-want him to feel terrible,” Jimin hiccupped, closing his eyes and nuzzling into Taehyung. “I want him to feel better.”

“I know,” Taehyung mumbled, exchanging a worried look with Jungkook.

Jungkook gestured to the main doors, and Taehyung followed along, guiding Jimin toward the exit and away from the few prying eyes around them. Jimin clung to Taehyung as they distanced themselves from the looming communal building, heading back in the direction of home.

Taehyung continued to soothe Jimin as the latter tried to rein himself in, struck to his core with hurt. Any rejection incited a very strong emotional response from an omega. Jimin couldn’t help the impact, no matter how hard he tried.

“This is all just a mess,” Jungkook whispered to his mate, pressing up against Jimin, the eldest shielded between them.

“We’ll figure it out.”

“Speaking it to life, huh.”

“Just bear with it for now. Step by step.”

Jimin inhaled a shuddering breath and readjusted his grip on Taehyung’s coat. Taehyung reached up to dab his sleeves at Jimin’s wet cheeks. “You’re okay,” he hummed. “Almost home. Then you can lay down and rest some more. You can even come home with us, if you’d like.”

Jimin shook his head, nuzzling further into Taehyung. “I need to—” hiccup, “—know that he’s alright.”

Taehyung sighed and threaded his fingers through Jimin’s hair. “Sweet boy.”

Their pace slowed as they neared Jimin’s cabin, the air seeming to still around them. A hush fell upon the empty plain—silence in the wake of catastrophe, as if the sky had run itself weak and tired.

Taehyung reluctantly pulled himself away from Jimin, gazing down at the latter with sorrowful eyes. He leaned in and gently kissed Jimin’s cheek. Jungkook paused, taking in the intimate scene, before he too quietly kissed Jimin’s other cheek, flushed from the stress and cold.

“You know where to find us,” Taehyung murmured, stepping back. Jimin nodded. Taehyung grasped Jungkook’s hand. “We love you.”

Jimin watched them leave, then slowly turned and climbed his front steps.

The house was dimmer than he had left it that morning. The fire had burned itself out, orange embers now a dull glow amidst ash.

Yoongi’s scent was stale; he had not returned here before setting out. The notion ate at Jimin, worry creeping between his ribs like a familiar acquaintance—yet, never a welcomed guest. He shut the door all the same, however, and stepped into his empty home.

He shed his coat as he padded toward the living room windows. Jimin drew the curtains, shrouding the house in darkness and privacy. Then he fell back into the sofa, his scent still clinging to the fabric spread out along it, carrying hints of grief. If he scented the furs deeply enough, he could detect the milky reminder of his pup’s presence.

Jimin folded his palms over his stomach and swallowed the sob in his throat. No more crying, he told himself. For the sake of himself and his pup, he would fix this.

Jimin shut his eyes and listened to the silence surrounding him, holding himself tight to remember he wasn’t quite alone. And he waited.

Chapter Text

Jimin should have paid more attention the few times Sooyun tried to teach him how to cook. Jimin was standing in front of the stove, ingredients spread out, a perplexed frown on his lips. He wasn’t entirely sure where to start. He didn’t even know how to cook rice. Jimin had hoped to have something ready by the time Yoongi got back, so they could sit down and talk things through over a meal. Jimin’s grand plan was already unraveling, however.

He couldn’t hunt any longer, couldn’t help his pack fight their enemies. He couldn’t even handle himself in the kitchen. Jimin leaned forward and groaned into his hands.

Jimin startled when the front door swung open, left stunned and staring at the entryway as Yoongi’s scent hit him. Yoongi paused, gaze meeting Jimin’s before he surveyed the messy kitchen.

“I’m making an attempt,” Jimin said meekly.

Yoongi looked rather disheveled, hair windblown, skin colorless, and coat sliding off one shoulder. He must have been in his wolf form this entire time, blowing off steam by running or tracking. Jimin could only hope he was being safe instead of reckless.

Yoongi wasn’t saying anything; he merely shut the squeaking door behind him. So Jimin grasped the edge of the countertop and worried his lip, making furtive glances between his mate and the supplies laid out. “I thought I’d make us dinner, so we could stay home and have some time alone. Then I realized I can’t cook, and, well...” Jimin blew fringe from his eyes. “Here we are.”

Yoongi sighed, shoulders slumping. He slowly removed his coat. “Let me wash up, then I’ll take over.”

“You don’t have to. Just show me—”

“I’ll do it, Jimin.” Jimin blinked, taken aback by the rough tenor of Yoongi’s voice. Yoongi cleared his throat. “It’s the least I can do after how I’ve been treating you.”

Jimin clasped his hands in front of himself and ducked his head. “I understand that you’ve been very stressed, and that this is all getting to your head. So I know why you snapped at me today, even if it really hurt in the moment.” He didn’t intend to sound so quiet and hesitant, yet he barely disrupted the precarious silence surrounding them.

“That’s no excuse. I should know better, I should... be more considerate, no matter what’s going on in my head. You trusted me enough to mate me. It’s wrong of me to ever reject you like that, especially when you just want to help,” Yoongi said, strained. “You were kind to me, and I—I snapped at you. I’m sorry.”

Jimin bit the inside of his cheek, staring at the floor. The crackling wood in the fireplace shifted, fracturing and collapsing into the heap of ash below. Jimin heard the splintering, the whoosh of scattered ash particles. He could feel the warmth at the nape of his neck, heat drifting through the room and creeping along his skin.

“Is that all you’re sorry about?” Jimin whispered, tentative.

Yoongi walked forward, steps calculated, and stopped inches from Jimin. He felt the alpha hover, hesitant to touch. Jimin also felt Yoongi’s longing, the small distance between them a physical ache.

“Maybe this discussion can wait until after I’ve made dinner,” he softly suggested.

Jimin raised his hand, breath bated. Then he grasped the hem of Yoongi’s shirt, holding himself steady. Jimin licked his lips. “Okay.”

Jimin’s lashes fluttered and heart stuttered when Yoongi leaned in, very gently kissing Jimin’s forehead before he swiftly pulled away. “Go get changed into something more comfortable, Min,” he coaxed.

Jimin gave a minute nod. He released Yoongi’s shirt and backed away. Jimin’s eyes flickered up for only a moment, catching the solemnity in Yoongi’s gaze. He turned and walked off, wrapping his arms around himself as he disappeared down the hall.

Yoongi inhaled a deep and unsteady breath, then he turned on the tap.

Jimin was curled into the corner of the couch, eyes drooping as he watched Yoongi move about the kitchen. The alpha’s thin shirt stretched across his broad shoulders, pulled taut with each movement. Jimin wanted to wrap his arms around Yoongi’s waist and press his cheeks to the space between his shoulder blades, feel his mate’s warmth and breathing. But Jimin also knew he needed to set boundaries. He couldn’t succumb to his instinctual draw toward comfort, otherwise Yoongi may assume everything was alright. As much as Jimin hated it, there was a divide to maintain, a message to convey.

Jimin sunk back into the armrest, gaze drifting toward the fire. Orange glowed and flickered, casting long shadows along the floor. The dark shadows of gnarled twigs stretched toward him like grasping hands, bony fingers spread wide, tips sharp enough to cut. There was a burst of sparks, a short wave of heat, until the embers settled.

The air would be warming up soon, and they would no longer need to keep the fireplace roaring. Jimin was just beginning to anticipate spring, excited to go bounding after rabbits, and hunt under the sway of new leaves. The forest was beautiful in May—a sea of light greens and a cacophony of birdsong. He would be stuck in their little valley this year, though, forced to stare out at the tree line wistfully. Jimin wasn’t even sure he’d be able to venture to the lake; no one could say how bad the threat of humans would be in a mere month’s time.

Jimin closed his eyes, the stress of the past couple days weighing heavy on him as he felt himself drifting. Yet, he began to hear the sizzling of cooked meat, and could slowly start to smell it. Jimin’s nose twitched, and his belly began to grumble. “Shh, pup,” Jimin mumbled, patting his tummy. He smiled at his own joke, well aware the pup wasn’t big enough to be demanding anything of him.

Jimin wrapped his arms around his waist and sighed. The sound must have been loud, as Yoongi shifted around the slightest to arch a brow at him. “It’ll be ready soon,” he said, voice rough and husky. Yoongi was surely just as tired, if not more.

“Mm,” Jimin uttered, flushing red over how impatient he must have sounded.

“Did you nap while I was away?” Yoongi continued, returning his attention to the stove.

“No,” Jimin replied. He watched carefully as the muscles of Yoongi’s back tensed, the alpha carefully lifting a pan. “I sat and—and waited.”

“That’s all?”

“Thought a lot, not that I wanted to.”

“You were alone?”

Jimin paused. “I had my baby. I talked to them a little bit.”

A plate clattered as Yoongi set it down a bit too hurriedly, seemingly taken aback. A beat passed before Yoongi resumed his work, fixing their plates with a clenched jaw. “I’m surprised to hear that.”

“Why?” Jimin said tentatively.

“I wasn’t sure if you were all that attached to the pup.”

Jimin swallowed around the tightness in his throat. “Of course I am. Why would you...” Jimin stopped, licked his lips, frowning. “I don’t understand why you’d think that.”

“I mean, if you’re so determined to go out and fight whoever—”

“Stop,” Jimin snapped. He blinked, shocked over his own heightened volume. He took a deep breath. “We tried for months to get here, to have this. I already love this pup with my whole heart. I’m sad you’d ever think otherwise.”

Yoongi stepped out of the kitchen, two plates in hand. He didn’t look Jimin in the eye, merely settled on the opposite end of the couch and handed Jimin his dinner. Jimin carefully set the plate in his lap and stared at it for a moment. He was undeniably hungry, yet he couldn’t work around the bile in his throat.

“You have to admit that your argument yesterday was scary,” Yoongi said evenly, beginning to pick at his food. “I understand that you love this pack, Jimin. I really do. The wolves here took you and Sooyun in, gave you a place and purpose with the hunters. But I think there’s a line you aren’t drawing between pack and family.” He gestured toward Jimin’s lower half. “That should be more important than anyone else, if I’m being honest. Because you and that pup come first for me.”

Jimin gaped, searching for his words. “I want to help. I would feel awful if I couldn’t do anything for my pack, no matter what happens to me.”

“And that’s selfish,” Yoongi stated, finally meeting Jimin’s eyes. “You can acknowledge that, right?”

Jimin bit his cheek. “Yes,” he said quietly, defiance in his gaze. “I can acknowledge that. I know I should still work on that selfish part of me, but right now... might not be the best time. Not while we’re in a literal crisis, Yoon. I care too deeply about these wolves to just stand by. That’s who I am; you knew that when you mated me.”

Yoongi took a bite and chewed, seemingly drawing out the time as he formulated his response. His muscles were tight with tension, lips pulled down in a subtle frown. Jimin’s heartrate kicked up just a little faster.

“Yeah, I did,” Yoongi said. He grasped his plate tighter with one hand and tapped his thigh with the other. “I mated the most stubborn omega in this pack. Probably the most stubborn omega in the whole goddamn world, if I’m being honest.” He exhaled, attention fixated on the empty cushion between them. “Y’know, Jimin, you make things a lot harder than they need to be. You can’t just carry a pup. You have to be a warrior and a father. You need a bold and honorable purpose,” Yoongi said dryly, brows pinched. “As if carrying a child isn’t purpose enough.”

“What? So you’d prefer an omega who just sits back and incubates? Is that what you’re saying, Yoongi?” Jimin growled, setting his meal aside meal as he quickly lost his appetite.

Yoongi scoffed. “No. I love your fighting spirit, really. I’m only telling you that you can do less, if only for what, seven months? You could manage that if you tried. Absolutely no one will blame you if you sit this one out. Actually, I’m gonna go ahead and say everyone would be relieved if you took a step back while you’re pregnant.”

“What if people die, Yoongi? How am I supposed to deal with that, knowing I could have helped?” Jimin retaliated. “What if one of my team members are ambushed when I could’ve scented a human coming too close? What if Hoseok dies? Or Jungkook? How am I supposed to look Tae in the eye again?”

Yoongi set his plate on the table beside them, then looked at Jimin, expression cold and contained. “How are you supposed to look me in the eye again when you’ve gone and gotten yourself shot?”

“I won’t—”

“You say that now, but how are you going to feel when your nightmares come true? When you’re the one with a hole in your stomach and a dead pup inside you. Huh? Look at me, Jimin,” Yoongi growled.

Jimin curled into himself and stared down at his lap, eyes welling with tears at the notion Yoongi was forcing upon him. “Stop it,” Jimin mumbled, clutching onto the sleeves of his own sweater.

“I’m only telling you what’s at stake here, because you don’t seem to get the fucking reality of this. I know what the damage looks like. I saw Wheein’s injury firsthand. I don’t know if it hit her uterus, but it was goddamn close. She collapsed, pale in just a few seconds. We were helpless. You being out there wouldn’t make a difference. You’d just make for two more targets.”

Jimin choked on a sob as he buried his face in his arms. He didn’t want to hear this. He couldn’t bear to hear this. “Please,” Jimin wailed. “Stop.”

Yoongi stopped cold, eyes widening as he took in the scene he had caused. Jimin was crying uncontrollably, curled around himself and his pup as he rocked in his seat. Jimin could feel Yoongi’s pain through their bond, the alpha’s heart breaking right along with his own. Jimin couldn’t breathe, the pain overwhelming him until he was physically gasping for air.

“I’m sorry,” Yoongi whispered, devastation sincere. “Oh god. I can feel your fear. I didn’t mean to—god, I swear I didn’t mean to do this.”

“Just leave,” Jimin hiccupped, bristling as the couch dipped with Yoongi’s movement closer, the alpha’s hand on his waist like a glowing hot iron. Jimin flinched away from the contact, wanting nothing more than to be alone and safe with his tiny, vulnerable, unborn child.

Yoongi didn’t listen to Jimin’s protests, however. He shushed the omega and wrapped him up in his arms, lifting Jimin into his embrace. Jimin struggled weakly, trying to squirm out of Yoongi’s grip as sobs wracked his body. Jimin pushed at Yoongi’s chest, whining when the alpha only held him tighter. “I’m sorry,” Yoongi continually muttered. He ducked down and pressed his nose to Jimin’s neck, releasing calming pheromones.

Jimin gasped, limbs going weak and limp as Yoongi’s scent surrounded him, forcing his body into submission. The suffocating panic in his chest began to lessen. His breathing grew less erratic, his sobs dying down as well. Jimin blindly clutched Yoongi’s shirt for leverage, head merely a fog of pure panic and terror at this point.

“Shh,” Yoongi mumbled, raising a palm to wipe the tears wetting Jimin’s red cheeks. “I’m so sorry. That won’t happen, none of it. I swear. I’ll keep you safe, Jimin. I’ll protect you, protect our pup.”

Jimin hiccupped, eyes closed tight as he pressed his cheek to Yoongi’s shoulder. Yoongi rubbed his waist in soothing motions, breathing heavily himself as he held the omega close. Perhaps he was scared of what could happen once he let his mate go.

Jimin’s body relaxed in his hold, exhausted from his fit and more than mellowed down by Yoongi’s pheromones. He sniffled and laid his palms flat over his stomach, a long moment passing as he tried to clear his head. They were okay.

Yoongi’s palm moved down to Jimin’s thigh, holding him steady in his lap. “I’m sorry,” he repeated, still nestled into Jimin’s scent gland. “For scaring you. For last night. I get so terrified at the thought of you getting hurt. So I—I overreact, and I do shitty stuff. I shouldn’t have used an alpha command on you. I shouldn’t have been so rough with you in the first place. We’re both stressed and scared a-and—” Yoongi shakily inhaled. “It’s inexcusable, but I did it for a reason.”

Jimin clenched and unclenched his fist in Yoongi’s shirt, tears drying stiff on his cheeks. He bit his lower lip, trying to not get worked up again. “I know,” he uttered. “But you don’t understand how terrible it feels to just lose control of your body like that. You said two words in that alpha tone, and I couldn’t even move. It’s so—so demeaning.”

Yoongi gave a minuscule nod. “I’m sorry. I will never do it again. I’m not that kind of alpha, Min.”

Jimin sighed. “That’s what hurt so much about it, I-I think. It’s because you really aren’t that kind of alpha. You’re usually so sweet. N-not commanding and coarse. I understand what’s making you act like this, but I don’t like it.”

“I’ll do better,” Yoongi said. “I’ll treat you gently, like you deserve.” He paused, scenting Jimin as his palm tightened over Jimin’s thigh. “But I need you to listen to me. I can’t concentrate on the threat at hand if you’re in danger, too. I know you hate not being involved, but I need you home.”

Jimin’s heart sank. He swallowed his pride, though, and every ounce of defiance he had previously held. “I will not go out into the woods until it’s safe,” Jimin said slowly. His voice was rough from crying, still shaky and weak.

Yoongi exhaled in relief. He pressed a gentle kiss to Jimin’s throat. “Thank you.”

“I’m only doing this because I love you.”

“I know.”

Jimin paused, shifting to rest his cheek atop Yoongi’s head. “Do you regret choosing me?”

“God, I shouldn’t have said that—”

“Do you?”

“No,” Yoongi said firmly. “I could never. I love you so much, pup. You’ve given me a million headaches, but you’re worth every one.”

“Good,” Jimin murmured. He carded his fingers through Yoongi’s hair, tired gaze drifting to the dark horizon beyond the window. “I’m sorry we’re so bad at communicating.”

“I think it’s going to be a part of our relationship we always have to work on.”

“I’ll be happy as long as we still have a relationship to work on,” Jimin said quietly. “I don’t think there’s anyone else I could be with. A-and that’s why you have to come out of this alive, alright? You’re not just our head hunter, you’re my mate. You’ll be a father soon, too. So please,” a deep inhale, “Please be careful.”

Yoongi shifted up and kissed Jimin’s jaw. “I will.”

Jimin hummed and pulled his hand back, soft gaze meeting Yoongi’s. “I still need time,” he said a bit cautiously. “I want everything between us to be fine, but I’m still going to need distance. Last night was more than rough.”

Yoongi searched Jimin’s eyes, pursing his lips to hold back a frown. “Okay,” he murmured. “Can you at least sleep in our bed? I won’t touch you. I just... I’ll feel better if you’re farther from the door.”

Jimin’s lips parted, attention caught on the raw emotion in Yoongi’s expression. Jimin nodded.

Yoongi breathed a heavy sigh. “Thank you.” He pressed a lingering kiss to Jimin’s temple, then finally let the omega untangle himself from Yoongi’s hold. “I’d also feel better if you ate before you went to bed.”

Jimin perked up, having completely forgotten about their abandoned dinner. “Oh, right,” he muttered.

Yoongi observed Jimin’s surprise, glancing between the omega and their food. “How would you survive without me?”

“Who knows,” Jimin said simply. “Let’s not find out.”

☽○☾

“I’ve been doing way too much baking. I think I’m turning into my brother,” Taehyung grumbled, assessing the half-eaten shortbread cookie in his hand.

“That’s terrifying,” Jimin commented, cheeks full of sweets.

Taehyung was lounging in an armchair, blanket spread over his lap. He had brought over an array of cookies to Jimin’s house, the two large trays set on the low living room table. Jimin and Dasung were seated on the rug to avoid disturbing Jimin’s nest on the couch, stuffing themselves with sugary baked goods.

“I always figured stress baking was something he made up. But god, it’s true,” Taehyung said. “Whenever Jungkook’s gone, I’m either napping or baking to keep myself from worrying too much. This mess is really getting to my head.”

“It’s getting to all of us,” Dasung said gruffly, pulling apart a soft cinnamon cookie. She popped half into her mouth. “The omegas in the dorm are being gossipy little shits. They’re spreading rumors about what’s really going on out there, like they’d have any idea how this human fuckery is going down in reality.”

“Language, please,” Taehyung sighed, hand on his belly.

“Your kid can’t hear me,” Dasung snarked. “Not that it’d understand me, anyway.”

“Jimin?”

“Hm?” Jimin perked up, facing Taehyung.

“Why did you invite her?”

“You said it was an omega day in,” Jimin shrugged. “And I didn’t want to deal with Seokjin, so here, you’ve got Dasung.”

“She’s a brat.”

“Yet, not a deaf brat,” Dasung stated, already searching for a new pastry to try. “What’s in this, blueberries?”

“Yes,” Taehyung said dully.

“Nice,” Dasung nodded to herself. “Anyway. They’re paranoid out of their wits. It’s both amusing and alarming.”

“I doubt it’s any better in the alpha dorm,” Jimin said. “I’m gonna bet the ones called out on patrol are over-exaggerating what they see out there.”

“Alpha posturing,” Taehyung agreed. “How vain.”

“Like your mate hasn’t done it,” Jimin snorted. “That bear he killed for you two years ago? He would have run home with his tail between his legs if it wasn’t for my help. He just wanted you to think he’d gotten that nice fur all on his own.”

“Maybe I don’t know him well enough yet, but Jungkook seems more mature than that now,” Dasung said.

“Yes, exactly. Thank you,” Taehyung sniffed.

“Only because he finally has to take responsibility for something,” Jimin replied, gesturing to Taehyung’s very round belly. “I mean, good for him, deciding to act like an adult. But where was that responsibility and maturity when I was still hunting with him? I wasted too much time rounding him up after he wandered off chasing birds.”

Dasung snickered into her hand. “He chewed me out for getting distracted a couple days ago.”

Jimin shook his head. “Hypocrite.”

“Apparently,” Dasung sang. She offered half of a small, frosted cake to Jimin. Jimin took it eagerly. “Honestly, though. They’ve been very somber and strict since the incident. We’re hunting way out west now, and Hoseok still startles at every little sound. We’re barely bringing back any kills. I’m getting worried for the pack.”

Jimin chewed and stared at the strip of yellow sunlight spilling across his living room, setting the lazy dust motes alight. He swiped some crumbs off his lower lip, then faced Dasung. “Even Hoseok’s acting that bad?”

“Yeah,” Dasung said. “They’re especially protective, always watching where I am. I’m starting to feel like a bit of a burden to the team. Which sucks, because I know I’m not a terrible hunter. I’m actually pretty useful now, but because of my age...” She sighed. “I don’t know. It’s not like I can just tell them to lay off.”

“You weren’t there that afternoon, huh,” Taehyung said. “In front of the infirmary.”

Dasung shook her head. “I was at the dorm. We were done for the day. I was actually asleep when the warning howl went out, then only heard about what happened once I woke up. By then, all the hunters had split up. I was kinda reeling all evening, still not entirely sure what had gone down.”

“I’m glad you weren’t there with us. It was just panic all around,” Jimin said solemnly.

Taehyung hummed in agreement, rubbing his swollen belly.

“I know I’m not the one most shaken up by it,” Dasung shrugged. “No matter how bad I’m feeling, I know the alphas are feeling even worse. They talk a lot to each other when they think I’m not listening. About emergency protocols—who keeps ‘the pup’ safe, and who stays to fight. At least they seem relieved Jimin’s not in danger anymore.”

So maybe that admission stung Jimin just a little. He tried to shake it off. “What else do they talk about?” Jimin asked, brows furrowed in concern.

Dasung licked her lips, clearly hesitant. “Grim stuff. I once heard Jungkook telling Hoseok that if died, he was trusting Hoseok to take care of Taehyung and the pup. That he really wanted Seok to watch out for his family.”

Taehyung sank lower in his seat, eyes watering. “Really?”

Jimin sucked in a sharp breath, then scooted over to pat Taehyung’s thigh. “Kookie doesn’t actually think he’s gonna die, Tae. He’s just taking precautions.”

“Yeah,” Dasung slowly agreed, scenting Taehyung’s distress. “Hoseok said he’d protect Jungkook for the sake of his family any day. He’s got your mate covered.”

Taehyung raised a palm to his mouth. “I don’t want Hoseokie to get hurt, either,” he wailed.

“Shit,” Dasung muttered under her breath, eyes widening.

“No, no one’s getting hurt,” Jimin quickly assured. “Taetae, they’re in the safest part of our territory. They’re going to be okay.”

Jimin may have not believed it, but he desperately needed Taehyung to.

“They’re alphas, sweetie. They’re too protective; they get dramatic. But they’re going to be fine. Jungkookie’s going to be around when your pup is born. He’s going to be here to help you raise them. And Hoseok’s going to have so much fun playing with them. He’ll be their favorite uncle, as bitter as I’ll be about that fact.”

Taehyung sniffled and rested his hand over Jimin’s. “It’s okay. Hoseokie will be your pup’s favorite uncle, too.”

Jimin smiled, nodding as Taehyung pulled himself back together. “Hey, how about you take some deep breaths while I go grab you a glass of water,” Jimin suggested, making sure to keep his expression warm and untroubled.

Taehyung hiccupped. “O-okay.”

Jimin struggled to his feet, Dasung rising after him and following him into the kitchen. She leaned against the countertop as Jimin flitted about, searching through the cupboard for a clean glass.

“You’re a better liar than me,” she said casually, arms crossed over her chest.

“You get better with time, pup,” Jimin said. He flipped on the tap. “Any news about Wheein?”

“She woke up a couple times yesterday. It was brief, but hey, it’s a good sign.”

“Good,” Jimin agreed. “It’s been, what, three days since the attack?”

“Four,” Dasung corrected.

Jimin bit his lip. “I’m losing track of time, being holed up in here.”

“You could go back to training omegas.”

“Even that would be too worrying for Yoongi,” Jimin grumbled.

“He’s kinda smothering now, huh,” Dasung noted.

“Kinda,” Jimin said quietly. “We haven’t really been interacting much. I’ve needed space, and he... he respects that.”

Dasung hummed. “Does it suck being pregnant?”

Jimin turned off the tap and stilled, grip tight around the glass. “What?”

“I mean, the sickness and all that. Does it suck?”

“It did at first. But I don’t get sick as much now. Just some back pain, mild abdominal discomfort. Apparently its standard, though, so I’m dealing with it as it comes.” Jimin set the glass down and faced Dasung. “Why?”

She shrugged. “Just curious.”

“Uh huh,” Jimin squinted. “Don’t go getting yourself knocked up just because the cool kids are doing it.”

Dasung snorted. “C’mon, I understand there’s an age difference here. I’m not too eager to become a mother.”

“Alright,” Jimin nodded, still watching her with suspicion. He reached out to close the cupboard he left open, shirt riding up with the movement. He lowered himself back down with a huff.

Dasung stared at his belly.

“What now?” Jimin asked, arching a brow.

“You’ve got, like,” she made a curving motion over her flat stomach, “A tiny swell now, at the bottom of your belly.”

Jimin blinked. He laid his palm flat over his stomach. “I do?”

Dasung rolled her eyes. “I figured you’d be paying more attention to that stuff.”

“I’ve been otherwise preoccupied,” Jimin squawked. “Besides, it’s hard to notice when I live in this body daily.”

“Sure,” Dasung snickered. “Check it out sometime, though. It’s kinda weird.”

“Wow, thanks. Never call my pup weird again.”

Dasung raised her hands in surrender and began to walk back toward the living room. “To be fair, I was calling your body weird, not your pup.”

Jimin grabbed Taehyung’s water and trailed after her. He handed the glass off to Taehyung, then settled back onto the rug, threading his fingers through the soft, dark fur. Taehyung took a long sip before leveling Jimin with his attention.

“I saw your brother moving some stuff into the alpha dorm,” he said casually.

“My brother?” Jimin clarified, pointing at himself.

“Yes, Jimin. Your brother. He and Jaejae were carrying boxes in, so either your mother is moving out, or your brother presented.”

Jimin furrowed his brows. “But his birthday isn’t for another week.”

Dasung shrugged. “Sometimes wolves present early. I was actually a few days late.”

“Huh,” Jimin said slowly, not entirely processing the new information. “Jihyun’s an alpha. Dumbass Jihyun is a dumbass alpha.”

Taehyung cackled and set his cup down to avoid choking. “Apparently.”

“Wait, and no one told me?”

“I guess there have been more important things going on?” Taehyung suggested.

“You know what, that is strange,” Dasung stated, a beat behind the other two. “Little Park Jihyun is an alpha. Doesn’t sound right.”

“Little?” Jimin echoed. “My brother’s gotta be half a foot taller than you, pup.”

“We went to school together when we were younger. He’s just a kid in my mind,” Dasung explained. “An annoying kid who tried to steal the snacks my mother packed for me.”

“Huh, that’s right. You’re only like a year older than him,” Taehyung said.

“Closer to two years, but yeah,” Dasung said.

“Same age gap as me and Kookie,” Taehyung sighed.

Dasung wrinkled up her nose. “Are you insinuating something?”

“Not at all,” Taehyung said slyly, leaning into an open palm. “So you two were childhood friends, huh?”

“Far from friends,” Dasung said firmly. “He was merely a nuisance.”

“I can attest to that,” Jimin added. “And he is still a nuisance to this day.” Jimin blinked, staring at the paneling of his wall. “Jihyun is an alpha,” he repeated.

Taehyung grinned and snagged another cookie. “Oh, how the times change.”

☽○☾

The day was winding down, sun setting into a quiet evening. Jimin cleaned up after his friends left, then idled about the house, pondering what else to do. He rearranged his nest a bit, satisfied at the small tweaks. Jimin later drifted to the bedroom and smoothed out the blankets atop their comforter, taking a moment to scent Yoongi’s pillow.

Yoongi had stayed true to his word, keeping his hands off Jimin while the omega processed his feelings. Jimin’s hurt had ebbed, though, replaced by an odd sort of emptiness. His body was craving the touch of his mate, his heart growing heavier the longer they were physically apart. Jimin knew it was the pregnancy that was igniting such an intense need within him, yet he couldn’t resist succumbing to it. He hugged Yoongi’s pillow to his chest, inhaled deeply, and sighed.

Bored out of his wits, and a little worried over how late it was getting, Jimin decided to get changed into comfier clothes. He put on one of Yoongi’s largest sweaters. It fell down to his mid-thigh, so Jimin figured he could forgo pants.

He padded through the hall to the bathroom, ruffling his hair as he muffled a yawn. Lazing around all day only made him more tired, it seemed. Jimin stopped in front of the mirror and continued to mess with his hair, turning this way and that to examine himself. His cheeks were a little flushed from the heat of the cabin, hair rather fluffy from his constant fussing.

Jimin bit his lower lip and stepped back, doing a little twirl in front of the mirror. He looked cute, Jimin surmised. Jimin’s short fingers curled around the hem of his sweater as he admired how it fell over his curves, hips visible even under the thick fabric. Yoongi probably wouldn’t mind coming home to this.

Jimin paused, considering his discussion with Dasung hours ago. He took a breath and held it, carefully lifting the sweater to reveal his belly. He shifted to show his side profile, heart fluttering as he zeroed in on his lower stomach.

Huh. There it was. The bump really was tiny, but even as Jimin sucked in, he could spot the minuscule swell. He smoothed a reverent hand over the expanse of his stomach, pausing over the bump, palm curving over it.

“Hello,” Jimin said softly. “I know you can’t hear me, but—” Jimin smiled, vision growing a bit blurry. “I guess I can see you, now.” Jimin blinked a couple times, thumb rubbing over his own warm skin. “Taetae says you’ll start to get a lot bigger in about a month. I think I’m excited. Although, I’m not sure how to handle that.”

Jimin took another step back until he was inches from the wall. He lowered himself to ground, still cupping his belly. “All of this is new to me, y’know. You’re my first. So I hope you’ll be patient with me,” Jimin mumbled, swiping away a stray tear. “You’re Appa’s first, too. But I promise he’s very happy. A little nervous, but who wouldn’t be?”

Jimin leaned his head against the wall and exhaled. “Things are a bit unusual right now, so I’m sorry if it’s still like this when you’re born. I swear this pack is usually less chaotic. People here are kind. Well, most of them. Your uncles are funny, and they’re good wolves. Your parents are...” Jimin sniffled, then giggled. “We’re trying our best. We’re kinda young, not that you’ll mind that one bit.

“And Yoongi’s wonderful. He’s your appa. He has a strange sense of humor, but I’m sure you’ll pick up on it. He’s also rather blunt. But we both are, so you’re out of luck there. Your appa is kind, though, and very caring. He dotes on me, even when I really don’t need him to. He only wants the best for you. The best crib, the best furs, the best everything, honestly. He loves you a whole lot.”

Jimin leaned forward, blinking throw the tears welling up. “He loves me a lot, too. But we fight sometimes. We always have. It’s rarely anything serious, u-until lately. We actually j-just had a really big one, and it still kinda hurts. So I’ve been really distant with Yoongi, even though I know he’s hurting just as much.” Jimin choked back a sob, tears running streaks down his flushed cheeks now. “I feel really bad about it, pup. I’ve been so scared that he won’t come home one of these days, and I still s-shrug him off w-when he is here.

“Maybe I’m a bad mate, or—oh, I don’t know anymore. I just want this to be over. I want him to be safe. I want all of us to be safe. Yoongi is going to be the best father you c-could ask for. I can only—only pray that you get to know him, t-that you get to be raised by him. I need him to be around for this—f-for you.”

Jimin took a deep breath and wiped at his eyes. He was beginning to grieve a life he wasn’t sure he would get to have. Yet, Yoongi was still alive, still here, still loving him. He wished his mate would come home; the ache in his chest was only worsening.

Jimin picked himself up off the floor and tugged the sweater down, still drying his tears as he padded toward the living room. He collapsed onto the couch and burrowed into his nest, holding an old fur up to his nose, relaxing at the remaining hint of Yoongi clinging to it.

Jimin pressed his cheek to the headrest and shut his eyes, trying to calm himself down. His eyes were puffy and skin ruddy from crying. He pulled his bare legs up as he curled into himself, anxious that Yoongi may not return for a while. Yoongi had been on patrols, hunts, and in meetings for days. Jimin wished he wouldn’t overwork himself, yet knew Yoongi wouldn’t listen to any argument at this point.

He wanted his mate back, if only for tonight.

Jimin’s breathing eventually evened out, and his flustered skin eased into a pink dusting along his cheeks. His lips parts as he grew weary with sleep, mind drifting closer to unconsciousness. Jimin cuddled a blanket to his chest, hugging it for comfort as the evening waned into night.

The sky was a deep navy littered with constellations when Yoongi returned. He entered quietly, noticing Jimin napping on the sofa as soon as he opened the door. He quickly undressed his heavier layers and moved to the kitchen to drink some water, glancing fondly at Jimin every so often.

It took him a moment to notice what the omega was wearing, sweater ridden up to the top of his thighs. Yoongi couldn’t hide the attraction evident in his scent, but he turned away for his own self-control. He may be itching to touch his mate after days of no contact, but he would wait for Jimin to initiate it.

Jimin stirred when he heard the tap running, nose wrinkling in confusion. Then Yoongi’s scent hit him, fresh rain and a sharp edge to the fragrant wood. Jimin blinked open his bleary eyes and sat up, heart thumping madly. He released an involuntary whine.

Yoongi startled, turning around to face Jimin. “What is it?” He asked, taken aback by Jimin’s wordless plea. The omega was looking at him with wide, glassy eyes, lip wobbling. “Are you okay, Minie?”

Jimin shook his head, and before Yoongi could grow too concerned, the former stood and rushed toward his mate. Yoongi barely had the time to open his arms for Jimin before the omega collided with him, clinging to his waist.

Jimin was whining as he burrowed under Yoongi’s chin, nuzzling against his mate as he scented him. Yoongi hugged him tight, surprised, yet nowhere near complaining. “Whoa, pup. What’s wrong?” Yoongi gasped, a shiver running up his spine as he felt Jimin’s plush lips against his neck.

““M sorry, Yoonie,” Jimin mumbled, continuing to smatter kisses onto Yoongi’s scent gland. He stopped a moment to rub his cheek against the gland, purring as his scent mixed more heavily with Yoongi’s. “Sorry, alpha.”

“For what?” Yoongi cooed, a rumble rising in his chest over Jimin’s possessive ministrations.

“F-for being so cold to you,” Jimin huffed, as if it was obvious.

“It’s okay, pup. I understand why you did it,” Yoongi assured, rubbing his back as Jimin resumed kissing his skin.

Jimin moved up, pressing his lips to the underside of Yoongi’s jaw. Yoongi titled his head to allow Jimin better access. He felt the omega’s purring vibrating against his own chest.

“You’re not hurt, right?” Jimin muttered, taking a second to scent the air for blood.

“I’m fine,” Yoongi assured. His palms curved over both sides of Jimin’s waist, nearly encompassing the slim width in its entirety. Yoongi growled at the mere thought of it, feeling how small his mate was in his own hands. He wanted to pick Jimin right up and hold him as close as they could get.

When Jimin started sucking on the line of Yoongi’s jaw, the alpha’s composure snapped, and he hoisted Jimin up. Jimin gasped and wrapped his legs around Yoongi’s hips. He swiftly returned his attention to Yoongi’s face, though, kissing his cheeks, nipping down his throat.

Yoongi turned toward the hall and Jimin bit down on the juncture of his shoulder. “Nest,” he said breathlessly, steering Yoongi away from the bedroom. Yoongi easily complied, walking them the shorter distance to the couch. He sat back and settled Jimin in his lap.

Jimin was sucking a bruise right next to Yoongi’s mating mark when the alpha grasped his chin, forcing the omega to finally face him. Jimin’s pupils were blown with lust and desperation, his lips red and swollen. Yoongi groaned at the sight and leaned forward, kissing Jimin deeply.

“Missed you,” Jimin whispered as they gasped for breath.

Yoongi growled and kissed him again, grip tight on Jimin’s hip. He parted Jimin’s lips with a thumb, tongue delving in to lave against the omega’s. Jimin shuddered under his touch, moaning into his mouth. Yoongi pressed on, just as hungry for more.

Jimin tangled a hand in Yoongi’s hair and began to rut down, underwear already damp with slick. He grasped frantically at Yoongi’s shirt, feeling his way down to the button of his pants. “Slow down,” Yoongi mumbled against his lips. Jimin whined and continued to struggle vainly, weak and disoriented from his hormone-driven desperation.

“Need to feel you,” Jimin begged. He broke their kiss, hovering inches away as he went lax in Yoongi’s lap. “There’s this ache in my chest. I miss you. Make the pain stop.”

“Okay,” Yoongi breathed, firmly pecking Jimin’s lips, incapable of refusing his omega’s needs. “Okay.”

Jimin sat up and eagerly slid his underwear off without prompting, tossing them to the floor. He moved his hand away from Yoongi’s pants, the alpha taking over. Yoongi had them unbuttoned rather quickly, pants and underwear pulled down far enough to release his cock. Jimin fitted his hand over the hardening length, stroking his thumb along it as he worried his lower lip.

Yoongi was watching Jimin’s expression through hooded eyes. He grasped Jimin by the nape of his neck, pulling him in for an open-mouthed kiss. Jimin flicked his wrist, and Yoongi moaned.

Jimin released his cock and moved his hands to lift up the end of the sweater, revealing his slick-drenched inner thighs and his own cock, flushed pink and curling toward his lower belly.

“God,” Yoongi muttered, grasping Jimin’s ass as the omega inched closer, positioning himself over Yoongi. “Why are you so hot in this damn sweater.”

Jimin released a breathy giggle. “I’ll remember that you like it.”

Yoongi slipped a finger around Jimin’s rim, the omega falling forward in surprise. He supported himself with his hands on Yoongi’s shoulders, slack-jawed as the alpha pressed his finger in all the way. Jimin shivered and shut his eyes, arching into Yoongi as he curled his finger, searching for where he knew Jimin’s prostate was. “Another,” Jimin managed to utter, already much too impatient for Yoongi’s teasing games.

Yoongi complied, seemingly much too impatient this time as well. They needed to fill the parts of themselves they had left empty through their distance.

“There you go,” Yoongi crooned against Jimin’s ear as he stretched him with two fingers. “Pretty baby. Won’t you look at me?”

Jimin’s lashes fluttered as he looked down at Yoongi through hazy, hooded eyes.

“What a good boy,” Yoongi murmured.

Jimin preened, clinging onto Yoongi tighter. He barely made a sound when Yoongi soon added a third. His overflow of slick eased the stretch, the slight sting quickly ebbing away to pleasure as Yoongi rubbed against his sweet spot. He was left gasping by the time Yoongi deemed him ready.

Yoongi helped guide his cockhead to Jimin’s entrance, the omega sinking down slowly with a steady exhale. When he finally bottomed out, Jimin rested his cheek on Yoongi’s shoulder and sighed. There was a purr rising in his chest again, instincts sated as he felt filled to the brim.

Yoongi hugged his slim waist, a rumble in his own chest, content with having his mate happy and safe in his arms.

“I love you,” Jimin mumbled, voice slurred with contentment and lingering drowsiness.

“Love you too, pup,” Yoongi said, pressing a gentle kiss to the top of his head.

Jimin shifted his hips then, working in slow circles as he listened to Yoongi’s heartbeat beneath him. Jimin parted his lips, brows furrowed in concentration as he chased his own pleasure.

Yoongi urged him on, palm on Jimin’s hip guiding him forward. Jimin fisted his hands into Yoongi’s shirt, lifting himself a couple inches, and sliding back down, continuing the short snaps of his hips. He kept it gentle and languid, feeling the need to take his time, bask in Yoongi’s scent and touch.

Yoongi thrusted up suddenly, and Jimin whined. He rocked into Yoongi harder, breaths coming out in mere pants. Jimin reveled in the fullness of his abdomen, feeling whole with Yoongi inside him. The thought startled Jimin back to coherency, though, and he pulled away.

Yoongi blinked up at Jimin, waiting for an explanation or some sort of shift in position. Jimin merely reached down and tugged the sweater back up, riding the material past his pert nipples. “Look, Yoonie,” Jimin murmured with a small smile. He grasped one of Yoongi’s hands and laid the palm flat over his belly. “Do you feel the bump?”

Yoongi glanced from Jimin’s warm expression to his own hand over the omega’s stomach. He was shocked he hadn’t noticed. Their movements stilled as Yoongi brushed his thumb against Jimin’s naval, and lower along the tiny curve. He shifted his palm away to get a better look at it, throat constricting as he was overwhelmed with awe and pride. “That’s our pup,” he said, tone pure reverence.

“That’s our pup,” Jimin assured, smile like a burst of sunlight in the dim night of their home.

“Oh, Minie,” Yoongi exhaled, tugging Jimin back into his embrace to kiss him deep and languidly.

Jimin purred, grinding down as Yoongi rocked with him. The heat in his belly grew, tightening like a coil within him, urging him toward his release. He tethered himself with a hand on Yoongi’s neck, another laid flat over his chest. Yoongi held the omega up by his waist, helping him along as he fucked into him.

Jimin nuzzled under Yoongi’s chin and whimpered when the alpha gave a harsh thrust, burying his cock deep into the omega’s clenching heat. “Yoongi,” Jimin mumbled, tongue heavy. His voice was giving out on him, but Yoongi understood.

He quickened their pace, taking most of the control as he guided them toward their release. Jimin shut his eyes and clung to Yoongi as he was wracked with wave after wave of pleasure. The slapping of slick skin was drowned out by Jimin’s moans and cries, urging Yoongi onward—faster, deeper.

Jimin came with a full-body shudder when Yoongi’s knot began to stretch his rim. He laid lax against Yoongi, oversensitive and whining as Yoongi worked toward his release. When the alpha’s knot locked them together, and he came inside, Jimin could only mouth at Yoongi’s neck to muffle his whimpers.

They sat there, gasping and clinging to each other for a long while, knowing they would be held together by Yoongi’s knot for quite some time. Yoongi traced simple patterns onto Jimin’s back, and the omega peppered feather-light kisses along any exposed skin he could reach. Jimin was left relaxed and purring, happy to just be in Yoongi’s arms.

Chapter Text

At eighteen, Jimin was a spitfire unlike any other. When he made threats, he followed through. When any wolf hurt someone he loved, Jimin retaliated tenfold.

It must have been autumn, a bite to the wind and heavy gray in the sky. Jimin stomped out of the omega dorm on a goddamn mission, Taehyung hurrying behind him, always a couple steps too far behind.

“It’s fine,” Taehyung huffed, worry evident in his tone, eyes wide. There were still tear tracks on his cheeks, and Jimin was ready to tear the dick off the bastard that made his best friend cry in the first place. “We’ll just ignore him. That’s what we always do to these bad alphas—”

“Then they don’t get the message,” Jimin growled. He spun around on his heel, nearly nose to nose with a shocked Taehyung. “No one fucks with my friends.”

Jimin whipped back around, set on his trail to the dining hall. Most of the pack would be gathering by now, as dinner time was fast approaching. If Jimin was lucky, he could handle the matter outside, save the kitchen staff from mopping up some blood.

Jimin found Hyunshik with a group of alpha friends, loitering outside the hall and joking amongst themselves. Jimin shrugged off his coat and threw it to the grass.

“Hey, knothead!” Jimin shouted. Three pairs of eyes snapped to Jimin, more perplexed than anything else. Jimin’s lip curled into a snarl, an intense rage only burning hotter in his gut. Jimin charged forward and shoved Hyunshik, the somewhat scrawny alpha stumbling back some steps before he could wrap his head around what was going down.

“You really thought you’d get away with spending a heat with him, using him, then leaving him alone in the damn heat house on the last day?” Jimin growled, inches from the alpha’s face, forcing him to look Jimin in the eye. “You didn’t even clean up after yourself. Just discarded him before he woke up. He’s been crying all day over it.”

Jimin slapped at Hyunshik’s chest, and the alpha emitted a bark of a laugh. “What the fuck, Park. Keep to your own business.”

“You made it my business when you made Tae feel like a fucking object. I suggest you apologize before I rip your jugular out.”

“Are you kidding?”

Jimin moved to shove him again, but Hyunshik blocked the attempt, throwing Jimin off. “I’m serious, knothead. You’re four years older than us. You’re old enough to mate, for fuck’s sake. And you’re still immature enough to treat omegas like shit, huh? You feel proud of yourself, alpha? Feelin’ tough?”

A muscle in Hyunshik’s face twitched, and he reached out to fist his hand in Jimin’s shirt, tugging the omega up to his height. “You’re really gonna pick a fight with me, little omega? You might wanna rethink that.”

Jimin wrapped his fingers around Hyunshik’s wrist. “Yeah?”

“Yeah,” the alpha snarled, leaning in closer. His rank was being questioned, his pride threatened. He clearly wasn’t thinking this through.

“I think you’re the one a little disadvantaged here,” Jimin snapped.

He used his grip on the alpha for leverage, kneeing up into the alpha’s stomach, lips curling with satisfaction as he heard the other groan. Hyunshik quickly released Jimin and curled into himself, head bowed as he tried to process the sudden pain. Amateur move, Jimin thought to himself as he tangled his fingers in the alpha’s hair, kneeing him again.

Hyunshik gasped and staggered, and Jimin bodily shoved him to the ground. Hyunshik landed on his ass, stunned for a long moment as Jimin caught his breath.

“Well? You gonna apologize or not?” Jimin huffed.

Jimin swiftly surveyed their surroundings, checking for any outside threats. Hyunshik’s friends were hovering off to the side, hesitant to gang up on an omega, no matter the damage he was doing to their friend. Taehyung was stalled at a distance, watching with concern as he clutched Jimin’s coat to his chest.

“Bitch,” Hyunshik spat, pushing himself to his feet. “You’re not beating shit out of me.”

“I’m not entirely sure what that was supposed to mean,” Jimin sighed.

Hyunshik lurched forward then, swinging wide at Jimin. Jimin choked out a laugh at the attempt, easily ducking out of the way. “You wanna try that again, knothead?” Jimin mocked.

“Jimin, be careful,” Taehyung called.

Jimin stepped around Hyunshik and moved closer in the next beat, elbowing his side. The alpha retaliated quicker than Jimin had thought he was capable of, ramming into Jimin right back. It took Jimin a couple steps to regain his footing, his ribs now throbbing with pain. A growl rumbled in Jimin’s chest, and he was back in it.

A round of punches later—most of Jimin’s landed, Hyunshik only managed to get Jimin once in the jaw—Hyunshik was back on his ass. At the very least, the bastard wasn’t a quitter. Jimin figured he ought to give him that much. Jimin took the moment to catch his breath, the ache in his face flaring.

Hyunshik looked ready to kill, nose bloody and red dripping down his face, sides and arms bruising. For all his alpha posturing, he wasn’t much of an opponent compared to a trained hunter.

Then Yoongi got involved, as he always did.

“Break it up,” the head hunter commanded, striding toward them with fury in his expression.

Hyunshik made one last attempt to get to Jimin, rushing the omega, but miscalculating his time. He was thrown back by Yoongi, the alpha managing to get between them in time. He snarled at Hyunshik, warning him to stay back.

Yoongi reached behind him, placing a steadying hand on Jimin’s shoulder.

“I don’t care what your dispute is. It could have been handled with words,” Yoongi enunciated, glaring between the two. “Bloodshed between pack members is senseless, and benefits no one. Neither of you come out of this winners.”

“Oh, I don’t know, Yoon. This knothead just got his ass kicked by an omega four whole years younger than him. I’d at least say some pride was lost in this fight,” Jimin said slowly, looking Hyunshik in his dark eyes. Jimin wiped blood from the corner of his mouth and frowned down at the red on his hand. He spat at Hyunshik’s feet.

“Someone needs to teach him a lesson about keeping his whore mouth shut,” Hyunshik barked. Jimin saw Yoongi’s jaw tense, felt his grip slide down to Jimin’s arm to hold him in place.

“I think now is the time for you two to cool down,” Yoongi said in a forcibly even tone.

“If you’d just shut your bitch up, Min, I wouldn’t have to do it for you.”

A beat passed before Jimin felt Yoongi’s hold on him loosen. Jimin understood immediately—that was not unintentional. While the head hunter couldn’t throw hands against a pack member, a simple hunter damn well could.

Jimin easily wrenched his arm free, then made at swing at Hyunshik’s face. Lights out.

☽○☾

Jimin leaned back into Yoongi’s chest with a sigh, skimming his fingertips along the surface of the warm bath water. Yoongi had barely convinced him to get out of bed, only on Jimin’s condition that the alpha join him in the tub. Jimin grabbed Yoongi’s arms and wrapped them around himself, purring as he settled himself under the latter’s chin.

Jimin felt constantly touch-starved, and it was becoming quite inconvenient. All he wanted to do was lounge around in bed and cuddle. To avoid getting stuck in the mornings, tangled up in Jimin’s limbs, Yoongi had to wake and leave before the omega. That only left Jimin a whining mess when he roused alone, though.

Yoongi was taking this morning off work, however, as the hunters were going to pay Wheein a visit. She had regained full consciousness a couple days prior, and was finally in speaking condition. She was still on a lot of medication to keep the pain tolerable, but Jimin would be happy just to see her moving and breathing, even if she was groggy and bed-ridden.

Yoongi’s hand drifted down to Jimin’s thigh, fingers brushing over the raised skin of his scars. Jimin shut his eyes and nosed along Yoongi’s collarbone, preening under the delicate contact.

“How’s your back pain?” Yoongi murmured.

“Not any worse,” Jimin mumbled against his skin. He was growing used to the pregnancy symptoms. The odd pains and aches rarely bothered him anymore. “The warm water helps, just like Tae said it would. I might start visiting the omega dorm again, just so I can relax in their hot bath.”

Yoongi hummed. “Take Taehyung with you. I’m sure he’d enjoy it, too.”

“His aches are worse than mine,” Jimin sighed. “He can’t really get up on his own anymore, either. That pup could be here in a little over a month.”

“Too soon,” Yoongi quietly replied.

“Way too soon,” Jimin agreed. “Feels like we were pups not long ago. Now he’s gonna have this tiny infant to take care of. At least it’ll be cute.”

“Not as cute as yours.”

Jimin snickered. “Don’t tell Tae that. He’ll get personally offended.”

“Let him be offended. Nothing is cuter than a pup with chubby cheeks,” Yoongi stated, reaching up to pinch Jimin’s cheek. “I swear, if that baby looks anything like you, it’ll be the squishiest pup you’ve ever had the fortune to lay eyes on.”

Jimin giggled, nose wrinkling as he gazed up at his mate. “My cheeks were not that chubby.”

Yoongi scoffed. “You were the most adorable kid—”

“Stop,” Jimin whined, burying his face against Yoongi’s neck.

“My mother used to say you had a little dumpling face.”

“That sounds like it could be an insult.”

“She said it lovingly,” Yoongi crooned.

“Please don’t call our pup a dumpling.”

“What should I call it, then? Mini Minie?”

Jimin snickered. “That’s ridiculous.”

“Pretty pup? Sweetie? Just baby?”

“Perhaps their name will work just fine,” Jimin mumbled.

Yoongi nosed along Jimin’s temple and pressed a kiss to his cheek. “If you insist.”

“Did you know Tae’s waiting until his is born to pick a name?”

“Some people prefer that.”

“He wants to know what it looks like first.”

Yoongi snorted. “Makes sense. Taehyung has always been odd.”

“I wonder if Jungkookie will have any say in that process.”

“As if he could ever argue. He looks at Taehyung like he hung the damn stars,” Yoongi chuckled.

Jimin played with Yoongi’s fingers and stared at the rippling surface of the water. “I think they’re going to leave.”

“The pack?”

“Mm. Jungkook cares too much for Taehyung to risk staying much longer.”

“I almost wonder if you should go with them,” Yoongi murmured. Jimin stiffened, and Yoongi rubbed his shoulder soothingly. “It’s only a thought.”

“What would be the point of living without you?”

Yoongi sighed and kissed him again. “You make this so difficult.”

“Good,” Jimin said. “As if that could ever be an easy suggestion. As if I could ever... leave, you or the pack.”

“Then you have to promise you’ll really be with me forever,” Yoongi whispered.

Jimin sat up and shifted around in Yoongi’s hold, water swaying with the movement, splashing the rim of the tub. He held Yoongi’s face between his palms, eyes hooded and soft. “I wouldn’t think of anything short of forever.”

Yoongi leaned up and kissed him, brief and chaste. Jimin threaded his fingers through his mate’s hair, Yoongi’s palm gripping his thigh, pulling Jimin flush against him. “Sometimes I think I’d do anything for you,” Yoongi muttered, watching Jimin with reverence.

“Only sometimes?”

Yoongi smirked. “Tease.”

Jimin tilted his head and trailed a fingertip along Yoongi’s cheek, observing the dark patches beneath his eyes. “Did you have another nightmare?”

“Nothing I’d want to relay,” Yoongi said quietly.

“I feel you moving, and I’m never sure if I should wake you. Never want to scare you.”

“I have a hard time distinguishing between dream and reality,” Yoongi sighed.

“I like it when you hug me,” Jimin mumbled. “Helps calm me down after mine.”

“Do you still dream of the pup?”

Jimin lean in and rested his face against Yoongi’s shoulder, shutting his eyes. “Too often.” He played with the fine hairs at the nape of Yoongi’s neck, focused on the steady rise and fall of his chest beneath Jimin’s. “There are days when I wonder if fear’s all we’re going to have left. I can’t run away from it, not at home, not with our friends, not even in my sleep.”

“Fear’s strong,” Yoongi whispered. “It’s hard to see anything past that.”

“It would be better if…”

“If what? We had a solution?”

“Mm,” Jimin mumbled. “Sometimes I see it in Tae, too, and I wish I could say something to make him feel better. As much as he and Kook may want to just run away from this, that’s impossible while he’s pregnant, still hard when the pup’s here. They’re fragile… they don’t handle travel and change as well as us.”

“I’m trying—”

Jimin shushed him. “Stop. It’s not your job to fix everything. As much as you hate it, we’re all helpless.”

Yoongi was silent, hand rubbing along Jimin’s back as he simmered in his thoughts. Perhaps Yoongi wanted to deny it, wanted to lay claim to some fault here. No matter how hard Jimin tried to wring the guilt out of him, Yoongi held it close, like some ill, driving force.

Jimin knew he couldn’t make Yoongi feel better, even if he persisted time and again. Perhaps that hurt more than the fear itself.

“We should get dressed,” Yoongi murmured. “We need to head out soon.”

Jimin exhaled and tangled his fingers farther up in Yoongi’s hair. “Another moment,” Jimin whispered, clinging onto him, allowing himself to believe that, at least in here, they were safe.

The small crowd in front of the infirmary was palpably nervous. Jungkook paced, and Hoseok watched him with a frown. Chunhei wrung her hands and stared at the grass. Dasung leaned against the wall, trying to make conversation with Jungkook, to no avail.

“The lot of you look like death,” Yoongi said gruffly.

Jimin clung to his arm and took in the scene, anxious himself to see Wheein for the first time. However ghastly their hunters looked, he was sure Wheein was worse.

“Thanks, boss,” Chunhei grumbled.

“Is she like, drugged up?” Hoseok asked, grabbing Dasung and rubbing her shoulders, trying to work off his nervous energy.

“Probably. That shit’s unbearable otherwise,” Yoongi said, a grim reminder of his own past injury.

“Will she recognize us?” Jungkook fretted.

“She’s injured, not old, dumbass,” Jimin grumbled.

Jungkook threw his hands up in defeat.

“Just go inside, see her for yourselves. And don’t say anything stupid,” Yoongi sighed, taking up the back as the group filtered toward the entrance.

“I’m guessing Hyejin’s already with her?” Jimin whispered.

“She’s barely left her side,” Yoongi replied.

“It’s awful seeing your partner hurt like that.”

Yoongi frowned, gaze lingering on Jimin. “You were strong.”

“I had to be.”

The hunters trailed inside slowly, and Wheein perked up from her spot on the cot. She was settled toward the back of the infirmary, in her own little corner, Hyejin seated beside her. “Wow, hi everyone,” Wheein beamed. She didn’t seem too out of it. “How have you all been?”

“Like that matters. How do you feel?” Hoseok asked, rushing over to grasp her free hand. “Do you need anything? Have you been healing alright?”

“I’m just fine,” Wheein waved off. “Pretty groggy, a little achy, but nothing I can’t handle. I’ve had good company and a lot of meds.”

Yoongi and Jimin stopped at the edge of the bed. Jimin was more focused on Yoongi’s reaction, trying to decipher his mate’s neutral expression. Wheein was his longest partner. The absence had undoubtedly been hard on him; he had genuinely thought she was going to die.

“You look good, kid,” Yoongi said quietly.

Wheein arched a brow. “And you look like shit. You should be sleeping more.”

“I tell him that every day,” Jimin said, offering her a smile.

Hoseok cleared his throat. “So, when do you get to go home?”

“Soon, we hope,” Wheein replied, squeezing Hyejin’s hand. “I need a lot of help changing the bandages, and I shouldn’t be moving much at all, so the medics are a great help. We’ve been taking good care of the wound, though, and it’s healing well. I should be able to get up and walk in the next few days, then I can head back to the dorm, although Hye will still need to stay with me.”

Hyejin smiled weakly at her. “She misses her room. It’s all she whines about. Not the pain or the cold food the dining hall delivers—”

“I don’t complain,” Wheein hissed. “I am a pleasant guest here.”

“The best we’ve had,” Hyunjae joked, passing behind them. “Oh, thank you for the crowd, by the way.”

“It’s not my fault! They all insisted on visiting!” Wheein protested.

Hyunjae snickered. “She gets so flustered when you tease.”

Wheein pouted. “I will be happy to evade Hyunjae’s attempts at humor.”

“Attempts?” Hyunjae echoed, offended. “I’m funny. Right, Jimin?”

“Sorry, Ma. You don’t wanna hear my answer,” he shrugged.

Hyunjae tutted and shook her head. “Kids these days.”

“So when can she start hunting again?” Jungkook spoke up, tone hopeful.

“A month, maybe,” Hyunjae said slowly, expression falling. “That’s if she makes a full recovery.”

“If?” Jungkook repeated, an edge to his voice.

“As the medics explained to me,” Wheein carefully began, drawing their attention, “The weapon was small, but had a large impact. It was this little piece of metal that broke into shards. It took a while for them to get out the shards, and that was a pretty... invasive process. My stomach may not heal exactly right, so I could have some complications from here on.”

“Where exactly did it hit?” Yoongi asked, tone hushed.

“Her uterus,” Hyejin answered, trying to tamp down her frown.

“Does that mean...” Jungkook trailed off, a little horrified, a little awkward.

“I probably can’t carry pups,” Wheein nodded in affirmation. Her eyes widened. “Please don’t give me that pitying look, guys. I really didn’t want pups all that bad in the first place. It’s not a huge deal, I promise.”

Hyejin stared at the ground, a tick in her jaw.

Jimin slowly raised a hand to his stomach, grief heavy in his gut. He couldn’t imagine receiving that news, watching his future be stripped of him forcefully, so very suddenly. He felt Yoongi’s hand on his back, heard him inhale sharply.

Wheein sighed and fiddled with the sheets. “I suppose you all have things to do today.”

“Yes, well...” Jungkook replied, trailing off.

“Go home to your pretty mate, Jungkookie. You don’t have to entertain me,” Wheein said, smiling at him warmly. “Has he been well?”

“He’s wonderful, thank you,” Jungkook said quietly. “Due in June.”

“That’s so close now,” Wheein gasped. “The time’s really passed by.”

Jungkook nodded, then stepped up to give her a hug. They began their procession of hugs after him, Dasung and Chunhei following along.

“Do you mind if I stick around a bit longer?” Hoseok asked, patting her back.

“Not at all. I’d enjoy it,” Wheein ensured.

Her hug with Yoongi was rather long, his grip tight around her shoulders. Wheein whispered something against his ear, and Yoongi sighed. When he pulled away, she kissed his cheek; Yoongi looked close to tears.

Then Wheein excitedly gestured Jimin over, and Jimin weaved through their friends to bend down. “Thank you for visiting,” Wheein crooned, rubbing his back and swaying with him. She paused, nose close to Jimin’s neck. “Jiminie,” she murmured. “Yoongi didn’t tell me you were expecting.”

Tears pricked Jimin’s eyes, so he closed them. “Surprise,” he whispered.

“I’m so excited for you.”

Jimin sniffed and pulled her closer. “I’m sorry,” he said, voice breaking.

“Don’t be. It happens,” she said quietly, reassuringly. “I’m just happy to be alive.”

Jimin pulled away, and Wheein wiped at his eyes. “I’m glad you and Yoongi are taking care of each other. And it’ll be wonderful having another pup around to pamper. They’ll be part of our little hunter family.”

Jimin shakily inhaled. “Rest well, please.”

“I will,” Wheein assured, letting him go.

Yoongi wrapped an arm around Jimin’s shoulders and walked them out. The mornings weren’t so cold anymore. The wind lacked its bitter edge, and the rising sun shone brighter over the expanse of the territory, yellow light illuminating the dew hanging on the tall blades of grass.

Jimin ran the heel of his palm under his lash-line, tears still falling. “She was lying, wasn’t she?”

Yoongi sighed. “They were going to get mated in another year, settle in and have some kids. I think Hyejin’s blaming herself for not doing it sooner.”

“God, I feel terrible,” Jimin hiccupped. “She had all of that stolen from her. And for what?”

“I wish I knew,” Yoongi murmured.

“What did she tell you? You looked upset.”

Yoongi tugged him closer and pressed a kiss to the top of Jimin’s head. “She told me not to blame myself, because she knew I was.”

“You should listen to her.”

“There’s no else to blame.”

Jimin shook his head. “Blame the humans. They’ll be held accountable, Yoon. I swear.”

“You sound just as sure of it as Hyejin.”

“I think I finally understand her rage.”

☽○☾

“Who’s a good baby?” Taehyung cooed, bouncing Haeju on his hip as they left the care facility.

Jimin had spent the day with Taehyung, playing with pups and keeping a constant eye on his best friend. Yongsun took the entire afternoon to lecture Taehyung on why he should just stay home. He was well past qualified for paternity leave. Taehyung only pouted and muttered about how she needed his help.

Now they were set out for dinner, Taehyung planning to meet up with the Kims in the dining hall and deliver their son. Haeju adored Taehyung, so there was a never a fuss when his uncle was the one picking him up.

“Should you be carrying him?” Jimin fretted. “I don’t want you to strain yourself.”

“You sound like Jungkook,” Taehyung grunted. “Let me be.”

Jimin rolled his eyes.

“Are you excited to see Papa?” Taehyung asked, making faces at the toddler.

Haeju reached up and grabbed Taehyung’s nose. “Tata!” He yelled instead. That was Haeju’s name for Taehyung, since he couldn’t quite pronounce his uncle’s name yet.

“You’re already with Tata, silly,” Taehyung giggled. “We’re gonna see your papa and appa now. They’re waiting for you. Then you can eat—”

“No,” Haeju stated.

“Yes,” Taehyung argued, puffing out his cheeks. “You need food to grow, little one.”

Haeju bounced in Taehyung’s grasp. “Food, food!”

“Does he even know what he’s saying?” Jimin asked with bemusement.

“I think so?” Taehyung mused. “He knows who he’s addressing. When I say Appa, he points at Appa. Here, look.” He turned back to Haeju. “Baby, where’s Jii?”

Haeju perked up, looking around frantically. His eyes lit up when he spotted Jimin. He pointed at the omega with a chubby finger. “Jii!”

“Good job!” Taehyung cooed.

Jimin snorted and pulled open the dining hall door, allowing the two to enter before him. They passed through groups of wolves, some muttering to themselves rather suspiciously. Jimin tried to ignore it. When they reached Seokjin’s table, Namjoon was absent, and Jimin really began to worry. In fact, many of their executive pack members were gone.

“Where’d Joon go?” Jimin asked as Taehyung passed Haeju over.

Seokjin settled his son on his hip and scented the giggling toddler. “Not sure. Hyejin and Yoongi called him away.”

“Yoongi?” Jimin asked. “What happened?”

“Again, I’m not sure. I don’t think anyone’s injured, though. There’s been no distress calls.”

Jimin exchanged a perplexed look with Taehyung. “Let’s go find your mate,” Jimin suggested, grabbing Taehyung’s arm and leading them away.

“I doubt it’s anything serious,” Taehyung said, an attempt at reassurance.

“Who knows these days, though,” Jimin muttered, winding through the dinner crowd.

He spotted Jungkook and Hoseok with relief. “Hey!” He shouted, drawing their attention as they neared the table. “Have you guys seen Yoongi?”

“Yeah, like ten minutes ago,” Hoseok replied. “Hyejin came in with Chunhei, and then she was dragged right out after talking to him.”

“Did he look pissed?” Jimin questioned, brows furrowed.

Hoseok snorted. “Yeah.”

Jungkook reached out and tugged Taehyung down to sit beside him. “Seok doesn’t want to freak out, but we smelled human on Hyejin.”

“You must be joking,” Jimin groaned. “So, what? Are they just trying to keep some huge incident quiet? Why have I not heard about this?”

“No one’s telling us shit, either,” Jungkook argued.

“You guys need to get better at eavesdropping,” Dasung spoke from behind Jimin.

Jimin shifted on his heel and grabbed Dasung’s shoulders, startling her. He narrowed his eyes at her with intensity. “What did you hear, pup?”

“Not enough,” she said, leaning away. “From what I could decipher, Chunhei and Hyejin were out on an afternoon round. Somewhere close to the lake, I think. There was a scuffle, they nabbed a human—”

“In the name of the moon,” Jungkook groaned, pinching the bridge of his nose.

“—And dragged the human back here. Y’know, like sane people do,” Dasung shrugged.

“Fuck,” Jimin muttered.

“What were they even planning to do with it?” Hoseok scoffed. “Talk to it? Humans are stupid. I’d be surprised if they even had advanced language like us.”

“Maybe Hyejin just wants something to sink her teeth into,” Jungkook muttered.

“I’d give her more credit than that,” Dasung said, wriggling out of Jimin’s grasp. “She wanted an interrogation, right? She wanted to figure out how we can get back at them, how to hit them the hardest.”

“That’s giving me a weird feeling,” Hoseok said. “We don’t have the warriors to go searching out trouble, no matter how revenge-hungry we are.”

“It’s stupid and irresponsible,” Jungkook hissed.

“It’s better than nothing.”

All eyes turned to Jimin.

“Oh, c’mon. Don’t tell me you’re on board with her delusions,” Jungkook said.

“Look, the human’s already here, right? Might as well do something with it. We can’t help what damage Hyejin’s already caused.”

“I hope Yoongi’s kicking her ass right now,” Jungkook muttered.

“I should go find him,” Jimin said quickly.

“What? No, that’s a bad idea. The sun’s setting, and I don’t think any one of us should be wandering around alone,” Hoseok replied.

“I’ll just be looking for my mate,” Jimin insisted. He stuck a hand inside his light jacket, feeling along the lining for the knife he had begun to carry around. It was one of Daejung’s, left to Yoongi after his passing. “It’ll be brief.”

Jimin stepped away, hoping they would simply believe him and let him go.

“You haven’t even eaten!” Taehyung called after him.

Jimin gave him a wave and turned around, backtracking toward the exit. So maybe he lied. He would be attempting to avoid Yoongi, rather than searching the territory for him. Yoongi would never allow Jimin to get close to where they were keeping the human, and Jimin desperately needed to see the scene for himself. He needed answers, too.

Jimin kept his pace quick, walking out of the central territory, wracking his brain as to where the hunters would keep something as dangerous as a human. Surely nowhere near their homes or pups. Nowhere near the general populace at all. “Somewhere secluded,” Jimin muttered. He paused mid-stride. “Oh. The heat houses.”

Jimin redirected his course, heading out toward the hill at the northern end, as those cabins were nestled in the tree line. His senses were alert toward anyone else walking about. He had yet to scent his mate on the wind and hoped to reach his destination without an encounter.

He rounded the hill, shoulders hunched into himself to stay small. The lights were on in one of the heat houses, and Jimin felt a spark of pride at his guess. There were two wolves loitering around outside the cabin. Jimin squinted before he approached; neither were Yoongi.

“Jimin?” Namjoon called, peering through the heavy blue of the night to see him.

“Hey,” Jimin said, feigning casualty. He stuck his hands in the pockets of his jacket. “Yoongi said I could help you guys keep watch,” he lied smoothly, gaze flickering to Hyejin.

“Oh, I thought he left to get Jungkook and Hoseok.”

Jimin cleared his throat. “They both wanted to stay with Taehyung, since he heard some rumors and got a little spooked.”

Namjoon nodded in understanding. “Well, no incidences so far. I don’t think he’s even conscious yet.”

“We knocked the fucker out real good,” Hyejin agreed.

“I’m sure getting dragged this far into the territory didn’t help his case, either,” Jimin stated.

“Fair,” Hyejin shrugged. “I think I’ll start with cutting off some fingers once he does wake.”

Namjoon rolled his eyes. “To clarify, Jimin, we’re awaiting a consensus between Yoongi and his team leaders to figure what exactly we want to do with this thing,” he said, pointing back at the heat house.

Jimin nodded. “I suppose he’ll have to find Chunhei first, then.”

“Right,” Namjoon sighed.

Jimin swayed on his feet. “Well, if he’s unconscious, no harm if I go in there for a minute and size him up.”

Namjoon looked apprehensive. “I mean, if you keep it brief. I don’t want Yoongi barking down my throat if he knows I let you in there.”

Jimin nodded. “Brief,” he repeated.

“Be safe,” Namjoon reminded as Jimin walked past him.

The stairs creaked as Jimin ascended. He stepped through the doorway slowly, shutting and latching it behind him. He lingered close to the door as he took in the small room. The cabin had been cleared of its usual bed and pillows, floor empty aside from the human knocked out in the center of it.

His arms were tied behind his back, legs restrained as well. Jimin approached slowly and drew his knife. “He’s just a pup,” Jimin muttered, observing the human’s young face. He couldn’t be any older than Dasung.

Jimin kicked his side. The human’s eyelids twitched. Jimin kicked him again, and this time the human grunted. He groggily opened his eyes and squinted up at Jimin. Jimin hunched over him with a scowl.

“Wake up. Can you hear me?” Jimin growled.

“The fuck?” The human muttered, tugging at the restraints on his arms. “Where am I?”

“Like you need to know that,” Jimin scoffed. He stood and back away, somewhat shocked they were speaking the same language, although the human carried an accent.

The human wrinkled his nose and managed to sit up with much struggle, grunting and huffing. He focused in on the knife firm in Jimin’s grasp. “Hey kid, maybe chill with the weapon there. Whatever’s going on, I’m sure it’s some misunderstanding. Who’s your commanding officer?”

“My what?” Jimin enunciated.

“Your superior? Whose squadron do you belong to? If I can speak to him, we can clear whatever this is up.”

Jimin shook his head. “You misunderstand. I’m no human.”

He looked Jimin up and down. “Uh huh,” he said slowly.

“Are you trying to mock me?”

“No!” The human exclaimed, seeming to process the threat in front of him. “Of course not. I’m just confused, and maybe a little scared. Also, really wondering why they sent a kid in here.”

Jimin gawked. “I’m not a child!”

“Sure, chubby cheeks.”

Jimin stepped closer. “Call me that again and I will cut off your tongue, boy.”

“Fuck, alright. Message received.”

Jimin twirled the knife between his fingers and began to stalk around the human. “We’re short on time, so here’s how this is gonna go down: I’m gonna ask you questions, and you will answer. If you cooperate, maybe I won’t kill you.”

“I think you’re fighting the wrong enemy here when we’ve got those huge-ass wolves out there,” the human replied, nodding toward the door.

“Oh my god, you are truly so stupid,” Jimin hissed. “I am a wolf.”

The human blinked. “What?”

“Are you scent-blind?”

“What does any of this have to do with smell?”

“You are truly that stupid. We got the stupidest of the bunch.”

“Hey, I’m out here to make some money. I don’t need to take this shit, or get my life threatened by some blood-hungry... whatever you are.”

Jimin perked up. “Wait, tell me exactly what you are doing in this territory.”

“Territory? It’s unoccupied land,” he replied, brows drawn. “We’re clearing it before any settlers can beat us here.” He paused. “Are you a native?”

“This pack has been here for centuries,” Jimin stated.

“Pack... Is that like, a village? How many people are here?”

“That’s not for you to know. Answer my question.”

“I did,” he insisted. “We’re here until we can make this place livable for people.  Our squadron was assigned to the west, but we’ve got more trouble than we were promised. It’s the wolves, like I said. They’re aggressive and territorial. They’ve already killed a few guys.”

“We are protecting our own,” Jimin snapped, leaning down.

The human narrowed his eyes. “Y’know, some of the boys down south talked about these—these things. Human one second, huge wolf the next. Apparently, they hand the bodies off to researchers when they manage to kill ‘em, but I haven’t seen any proof. I just think they’ve got too many hallucinogens down there.” He looked Jimin up and down. “You’re telling me they’re not crazy?”

“If you believed me, would you warn your... your squadron to stay away?”

“God, I’m nothing out there. Like they’d listen to me,” he said slowly. “I honestly don’t think it’s worth your time killing me to send a message, either.”

Jimin bit the inside of his cheek and shook his head, staggering back a few steps. “Fuck,” he muttered. “You can’t really be that useless.” He paced and glanced uneasily at the door. They’d be growing suspicious soon, or even worse—Yoongi would return.

Jimin’s cold gaze snapped to the boy. “Have you even hurt one of the wolves your people have encountered?”

He shook his head. “Haven’t seen ‘em for myself, I swear.”

Jimin swallowed a lump in his throat. “So, you didn’t hurt my pack.”

“No,” he replied cautiously, eyes glued to Jimin as the omega paced, floorboards creaking, wind rattling the window panes. “Are you supposed to even be in here?”

Jimin paused.

“You look... unsteady.”

“Shut up,” Jimin hissed.

“Why are you here?”

“To—” Jimin stopped. Why was he here? To seek answers? Well, he had them. “To kill you. I was supposed to kill you.”

“Are you going to?” The human asked, almost curious.

There was shouting from outside, then. A scuffle. Then pounding footsteps up the stairs. Jimin whipped around, looking wide-eyed at the sealed door. “Shit.”

“What’s going on?”

Jimin ignored him. He flinched when the banging on the door began.

“Jimin!”

Yoongi sounded pissed. Jimin could feel the panic rolling off him, reverberating through their bond. He could also smell his distress from here, pheromones near overpowering. Jimin bent down and wrapped an arm over his stomach, fighting the urge to submit.

“Open this fucking door!”

“Who is that?” The human pressed.

“None of your business,” Jimin snapped, still staring at the wood with flaring panic and urgency. He sucked in a sharp breath. “Just let me do this, Yoongi! They deserve to feel our pain and more!”

“This isn’t the right way!” Yoongi persisted, a pause in his knocking. “Just come out, we’ll discuss this together.”

“No,” Jimin said, voice strained. “The conversation’s over. It’s time for action. I-it’s time I protect my pack.”

“Jimin,” Yoongi warned. “I will break down this door, I swear.”

Jimin swallowed the bile in his throat and tightened his grip around his knife.

“Jimin,” Yoongi attempted again. “Don’t you step near that human. Don’t take that risk.”

“He’s weak,” Jimin said, volume lowered, voice wavering. “He’s just a kid. I could slit his throat. It’d be over. M-maybe they’d finally understand.”

There was more muted talk outside. They were really going to break the door down.

Jimin shifted on his heel, heart thumping madly. He faced the human, the boy suddenly stricken with shock. He had been listening carefully, heard the sincerity and intensity in Jimin’s tone.

“I’m going to kill you,” Jimin said, a crack in the last word.

“It doesn’t sound like you want to,” he whispered.

“Are you not scared?”

“Of you? No. I think you’re the one who’s more scared between the two of us, honestly.” His licked his lips. “What has my squadron done to your people?”

“You don’t know?” Jimin growled, tears pricking his eyes. “Have you not heard of the slaughter? How they stalk us like animals?”

“All I’ve seen is the carnage you leave behind,” he stated, gaze unmoving from Jimin’s. “You wanna see me bleed, don’t you?”

“I need to kill you,” Jimin rasped. The door rattled behind him, walls shaking in turn. “I need to do this for my pack. Bloodshed for bloodshed.”

He shook his head. If Jimin looked close enough, he could see sympathy in the human’s eyes. “You’re crying.”

“All you do is take. You are a selfish race,” Jimin breathed. “I-I need to kill you.” He raised his weapon, hand suddenly quivering.

The human sighed. “You won’t.”

The latch broke, heavy door slamming open. Jimin shook his head, tears breaking free. Then there were arms around his waist, then under his knees, lifting him up, dragging him away from the haunting gaze of that boy.

Jimin didn’t struggle. He shut his eyes and let himself be carried out, down, and away.

“Is he alright?”

Jungkook’s voice.

“I swear, Yoongi. I didn’t know—”

“You didn’t know?” Yoongi snapped, turning around to snarl at Namjoon. He set Jimin down, yet held him close to his chest. Jimin gripped Yoongi’s shirt—he must have dropped the knife—and stared out at the forest in shock.

Jimin couldn’t kill him.

“You couldn’t fucking smell the pup on him? Seriously, Joon?”

“Hey, it’s been an intense night!” Namjoon argued. “And no one bothered to mention it to me. We all know Jimin! We know the kind of stunts he pulls! It would’ve been nice if someone mentioned that, ‘oh, Namjoon, Jimin’s pregnant! So let’s not let him near the deadly human prisoner!’”

“He’s just a pup,” Jimin muttered, brows drawn. “Have you not seen him?”

“Not now, Jimin,” Yoongi growled.

Jimin released his grip and backed away, yet couldn’t budge much further, Yoongi’s firm grip keeping him close. “You should have seen him. He’s so young. He doesn’t know what’s going on, doesn’t know what the other humans have been doing to us—”

“We can talk about this later.”

“No, I want you to listen to me,” Jimin insisted, voice warbly and body shaking. “I managed to talk to him; I got answers! We’re just an obstacle to them. Something to be hunted so they can reach their goal! They want the land, Yoongi. And they’re shooting us down to get it.”

“What do you suggest we do about that?” Yoongi asked, tone coarse.

“I don’t know, but it’s not his fault—”

“Like hell it’s not—”

“I couldn’t kill him!” Jimin exclaimed, grasping Yoongi’s arm, trying to meet his eyes. “I wanted to, Yoon. But I couldn’t.” A sob wracked his body. “I see Wheein, I see your scar, and all I wanna do is watch them bleed. But the moment I got the chance, I couldn’t do it!”

Yoongi looked frightened for a moment, grip loosening around Jimin. He was so careful, so cautious, as if Jimin would break if he held him too closely.

Jimin cried and shuddered, flooded with guilt over his wasted opportunity. He should be a warrior, a defense for his pack. His loved ones had been injured, nearly killed, and he couldn’t fucking touch one damned human.

“I c-couldn’t do it,” he uttered.

Yoongi’s expression softened, hurt over his mate’s distress. He gathered Jimin in his arms, pressing the omega into the crook of his neck, trying to calm him with his scent. He shushed Jimin, rocking him slowly on their feet while Namjoon and Jungkook watched on helplessly.

“What are we supposed to do now?” Jungkook asked, glancing back at the heat house, evidently conflicted.

“We wait, and we talk it over,” Namjoon said firmly. “Maybe slaughtering them in return isn’t our wisest option.”

Yoongi shook his head, then buried his nose in Jimin’s hair. He shut his eyes, hugging him desperately, the world around them fading. “I wish I had the answer,” he muttered, voice breaking. “I’m sorry, pup. I’m just as lost as you.”

Chapter Text

Jimin propped open the bedroom window in the morning, having risen late to an empty bed. He could hear shuffling down the hall, probably in the kitchen, so he could assume Yoongi was still home. Jimin lingered on the window sill, breathing in the clean May breeze, smelling new grass and blooming flowers. His heartbeat skipped with excitement.

Jimin rushed over to the wardrobe and threw open the doors, sifting through his sweaters and shirts until he found his collection of summer dresses. The temperature was finally warm enough during the day for Jimin to not wear pants. He picked out a flowy white piece, then quickly laid it out over the bed before stripping himself of his sleep clothes. Jimin pulled the dress over his head with a heavy exhale, messing with the fabric around his hips so it fit more comfortably.

Jimin hadn’t realized how much weight he had gained until now, seeking out a mirror to observe how tight the garment was around his stomach and hips. Jimin pursed his lips and hummed. Well, they weren’t trying to hide the pup at this point, anyway; he might as well show off his new belly bulge with pride.

Jimin gave a little twirl as he observed his reflection, smiling at how the material fluttered out around his bare thighs. The long sleeves hung off his shoulders, sunlight dancing along his honeyed skin. Jimin thought he looked prettier than he had in months.

The omega practically skipped out of the bedroom, on a route to the door once he passed through the hall, intending to visit Taehyung. His friend had finally been forced to quit working, too huge and tired to do much moving around in general. He mostly stayed at home these days, counting down the few weeks left until the pup was born. He was probably nesting madly, left with nothing else to do other than prepare for his child.

“Where are you going?” Yoongi asked, shocked.

Jimin stopped and spun around, his mate idling in the kitchen, clean dishes laid out to dry behind him. “To Taehyung’s,” Jimin said simply. “Don’t you have work?”

“Yeah, soon,” Yoongi replied, obviously distracted by Jimin’s dress. “You’re going out in that?”

Jimin cocked a hip and arched a brow. “Yup. Why?”

“That’s a lot of skin.”

Jimin rolled his eyes. “Taehyung’s mated. And heavily pregnant. I doubt he’s going to care about how much skin I’m showing.”

“He may not. It’s the wolves you run into on the way that I’m concerned about,” Yoongi replied, brows drawn.

“I don’t know, Yoon,” Jimin sighed. He gestured to his bump. “Alphas tend to back off when they know you’ve been knocked up by someone else.”

Yoongi still looked doubtful, so Jimin walked over to better look at him. He slung his arms around his mate’s shoulders, smiling at him cheekily in hopes of easing his nerves. Jimin tucked Yoongi’s hair behind his ear, making a note that they should cut it soon, especially with the weather warming up.

Jimin had once suggested that they shave Yoongi’s wolf for the summer, given his thick, dark fur. Yoongi’s responding horror was more than Jimin could bear; he almost laughed at the mere memory.

“You get so jealous,” Jimin murmured teasingly, briefly nosing along Yoongi’s jaw before pulling away.

“I can’t help it when I’ve got the prettiest omega in the pack,” Yoongi replied, tone close to a pout as he grabbed Jimin’s hips and tugged him closer. He tilted his head and lightly brushed their noses together. “What’s the special occasion?”

Jimin hummed and shut his eyes, inhaling the alpha’s scent. “Well, we’ve got dinner with Eomma tonight, and the big pregnancy announcement.” He curled his fingers into Yoongi’s hair, playing with the silky strands. “And it’s spring,” he shrugged. “Gotta take advantage of the sun while it’s here.”

Yoongi leaned in and captured his lips, Jimin sighing into the contact. Yoongi pulled away just as swiftly, one hand sneaking down to palm at his ass. “You look gorgeous,” he rumbled.

Jimin preened and curled into him, burying his nose against Yoongi’s scent gland. “It’s tighter than it used to be.”

“I can tell,” Yoongi chuckled. His touch skimmed down, under the hem of the dress so he could feel the back of Jimin’s thigh. Jimin’s lips parted, and his tongue laved over Yoongi’s gland. He smirked when he felt the small shudder that wracked the alpha’s body. “Fuck,” Yoongi grunted, hiking Jimin’s leg up and lifting him fully.

Jimin clung to his shoulders and gasped, releasing another breath when he was set on the countertop. Yoongi leaned away to rake his gaze over Jimin, smoothing his hands along the curves of Jimin’s waist. His eyes lingered on the pudge of Jimin’s tummy, white material strained over it.

The hem of the skirt had ridden up, yet Yoongi pushed it back further, drinking in the sight of Jimin’s thighs. Jimin rested back on his palms, flustered over how intensely Yoongi was observing him.

Jimin pulled his lip between his teeth. “You’re looking at me like you’ve never seen me naked before.”

“It’s different,” Yoongi said firmly.

Jimin huffed. “Is it?”

“It’s like...” Yoongi tapered off. He pressed forward and nuzzled into Jimin’s jaw. “It’s like how your skin looks so much nicer when it’s pink and blushing.”

Jimin reached up to grasp at the nape of Yoongi’s neck when he felt a light nip at his jaw.

“Like how much nicer your hair looks after sex, all mussed up.”

“Yoon,” Jimin moaned, the alpha’s mouth moving down, hot tongue on his neck, teeth slotting over his mating mark, pressing down. The act of possession sent shivers along Jimin’s spine; he dug his nails into Yoongi’s back to hold himself steady. “Do we have time?”

“For what?” Yoongi asked coyly, laying Jimin out across the counter and sinking down to return to his thighs.

“For you—” Jimin’s breath caught as he felt a wet kiss on his inner thigh. “For you to fuck me?”

“Probably not,” Yoongi replied, breath ghosting across Jimin’s sensitive skin. “I’m not sure I care, though.”

It didn’t take them much longer to have Jimin’s legs bent and Yoongi’s mouth on his slicked rim, the omega’s dress tucked under his back to avoid dirtying it. Yoongi gripped Jimin’s thighs as he ate him out, Jimin working through stuttered breaths. He squirmed and tried to grip the counter’s edge, Yoongi’s tongue working wonders inside him. As arousing as it was, Jimin knew he would come faster with the alpha in him, so he reached down and tugged at Yoongi’s hair, trying to urge him back up.

“Were you not enjoying that?” Yoongi asked, standing to hover over Jimin with hooded eyes.

“You know I liked it,” Jimin said breathlessly. “But I asked you to fuck me.”

“I don’t think it was quite a request—”

Jimin sat up and pulled Yoongi into a searing kiss. He then tugged the alpha flush to him by the hem of his pants, grinding against him a little desperately. “Just do it,” Jimin whispered against his lips. “You’ve gotta get to work.”

Yoongi met Jimin’s hazy and lustful gaze, taking note of the challenge to the omega’s tone. “You test me,” he mumbled. He kissed Jimin, open-mouthed and messy, sucking on his tongue before he moved away.

Yoongi grabbed Jimin’s hips firmly and pulled him off the countertop, promptly turning him around and grinding against Jimin’s ass. Jimin whined low in his throat and pushed back into him. Yoongi draped himself over the omega and kissed at the back of his neck, biting down as he forcefully leaned Jimin against the edge of the counter.

“Careful,” Jimin breathed, reminded of his bump as it pressed against the hard surface. Yoongi had been much less rough when handling Jimin lately, but there were still moments that they forgot about their little obstacle. Jimin was surprised at his sex drive during pregnancy. He figured his urges would taper off, yet he’d only grown more horny, hungry to be touching his mate in some way at all times.

Yoongi rolled his hips, rubbing against Jimin’s bare ass languidly, probably close to full hardness. Jimin was sure his heady scent was helping Yoongi’s arousal. Yoongi continued to mouth at Jimin’s neck, inhaling close to his scent gland, intoxicated by Jimin’s cloying pheromones.

Jimin nearly groaned in relief when Yoongi released his cock, teasing between Jimin’s cheeks long enough for the omega to grow annoyed. “Now you’re just being mean,” Jimin huffed, trying to push back against Yoongi despite the firm weight on top of him, keeping him in place.

Yoongi twined the fingers of his free hand with Jimin’s as he eased himself in, the latter somewhat loose from the previous night. God, Jimin’s urges were the worst in the middle of the night and right when he woke up. It was starting to mess with both of their sleep schedules. At least Jimin had the freedom to nap during the day; Yoongi wasn’t quite so fortunate.

Once Yoongi bottomed out, he placed a large palm over Jimin’s waist, guiding their movements as he thrust into him deep and slow. Jimin hummed, moving in rhythm with him, sated as he was filled. Jimin clenched around him, breathy moans urging Yoongi further. “Harder,” Jimin uttered, tongue heavy.

Yoongi snapped his hips, and Jimin whined. He pressed his forehead to the cool surface of the counter, abdomen tight as Yoongi hit his prostate in a consistent rhythm. “Mm, fuck,” Jimin muttered as Yoongi quickened the pace somewhat, perhaps realizing the urgency in which they needed to wrap this up. Jimin only briefly entertained the thought that Yoongi shouldn’t knot him, too occupied to actually mention it.

Yoongi’s grip slid down to his hip and tightened, pulling Jimin down on his cock harder, thrusts sharper. He bit down on Jimin’s shoulder, the omega grasping for purchase at the painfully pleasant sensation. Jimin couldn’t really be embarrassed over his tendency to just writhe beneath the alpha; Yoongi liked the control, anyway, and Jimin was much too content to have his mate inside him, scent surrounding him, lips against his skin. Jimin was hungry and lust-addled, driven to lay pliant when he got too worked up.

Jimin whimpered as Yoongi lapped at the abused skin. His knees were rather weak, position supported by his upper body draped across the solid surface. Yoongi’s grip was also unfaltering; Jimin absently wondered if that spot on his hip would bruise. He wouldn’t mind, as he quite enjoyed the pretty red marks that last a day at most. There was something instinctual that had Jimin preening over any form of a claim.

Yoongi kept his knot out of Jimin when he felt it swell—at least he had the coherency to manage that. Meanwhile, Jimin gripped his hand, jaw slack. “C-come in me, alpha,” he gasped, head a muddle of omega hormones. God, he was absolutely bathed in Yoongi’s scent. Jimin wanted to feel him, scent him, from the inside out. “I take y-you so well, right? ‘M a good omega, f-filled with your—your pups.”

“Jimin,” Yoongi groaned, wrapping his arm fully around Jimin’s waist, tugging him up and flush against him as he neared his release. “Fuck, so good. You’re perfect, Min.”

Jimin shut his eyes and purred, clinging onto Yoongi’s hold to keep himself upright. Jimin didn’t realize how close he was to orgasm until Yoongi wrapped a hand around Jimin’s strained cock. He unwound mere moments later, slumping back against Yoongi with a full-body shudder.

He was barely cognizant when Yoongi came in him, still drifting through the tingly haze of his own orgasm. Jimin sighed and rested his head back against Yoongi’s shoulder, limbs weak and mouth cottony. “Now ‘m gonna have to clean this up,” Jimin grumbled.

“You seem content enough,” Yoongi chuckled, voice hoarse.

“Was my dress spared?”

Yoongi made a furtive glance down. “I think so,” he mused. His arm had kept the material bunch up past Jimin’s stomach, avoiding both Jimin’s come and slick.

Jimin groaned in relief. “Good. I still want to wear this to dinner tonight.”

“I mean, you could still wear it if it was dirty. You’d just have to explain the stains,” Yoongi joked.

Jimin snorted and untangled himself, holding his dress up as Yoongi eased out of him. Jimin winced, feeling come sliding down his inner thighs.

“I got it,” Yoongi murmured, kissing Jimin’s cheek as he passed. He grabbed a clean cloth from the kitchen and returned, bending down behind Jimin to wipe up their mess. Yoongi cleaned himself up in the process, rearranging his clothes to seem a little less fucked out.

Jimin searched for his underwear and tugged them back up, dropping the hem of his dress with a hum. “You did that on purpose, didn’t you?”

Yoongi arched a brow at him, cloth still in hand. “Did what?”

“Got me all riled up, so I’d want sex,” Jimin insisted, disbelieving of Yoongi’s innocent tone.

“Now why would I do that?” Yoongi asked, eyes widening a fraction.

“Don’t play dumb, possessive alpha.” Jimin rolled his eyes. “Now I smell like sex, and more importantly—you.”

Yoongi shrugged. “Accuse me all you want, but I was just enjoying your company.”

Jimin snorted. “Alright, love.” He padded over to offer a chaste kiss. “I’m leaving for real now.”

Yoongi brushed a hand through Jimin’s hair, smoothing out some wayward strands. “Okay,” he smiled. “I guess I’ll make up an excuse for my late arrival.”

“No use. They’ll smell it on you.”

“No helping it, then,” Yoongi said casually. “See you later.”

Jimin found his shoes and nodded, slipping out the door into the sun-warmed spring air. The breeze brushed his skirt against his thighs, and Jimin stretched out his arms to feel it between his fingers, too.

He hoped he wouldn’t be too cooped up in the summer. If things progressed as they had been the past couple weeks, they might be heading toward a turn for the better.

After an entire day of debate, the hunters and elders decided to release the human. He was clearly scent-blind, so there was little chance he would find his way back to their central territory if they dragged him back to where they’d caught him, unconscious once again.

Jimin thought he would feel more conflicted about letting the human go. Yet, he was somewhat relieved. He had felt an odd parental instinct overtaking him; the human looked much too young, tone too confused and sincere. He felt the same toward the human as he did toward Dasung—they may be far from innocent, but they were not deserving of harsh punishment. They were someone’s babies, after all, and Jimin understood the fright of potentially losing a child all too well.

Once they had released the human, with some fuss from Hyejin, matters shockingly quieted down. They could never be sure what the human had told his companions upon returning to them, but some change was made. Since his release, they had yet to scent humans in their territory. There were no violent incidences, no encounters. It was almost too peaceful.

Even if Jimin was relieved with the shift in trends, he refused to let his guard down. No change was permanent, and the silence could only be a signal of something worse awaiting them.

Jimin took a deep breath to clear his head, drawing close to the Jeons’ cabin. There were potted flowers on the porch; Taehyung must have found the time and energy to do a little gardening. The flowers were already blooming, red and yellow tulips swaying with a gust of wind.

Jimin ascended the front steps and knocked, tapping his foot as a few beats passed. Jungkook answered the door rather belatedly, appearance ruffled when he faced Jimin. “Hi?” He greeted, seemingly confused by Jimin’s presence.

Jimin tried to peek around him. “Is Tae still in bed?”

“Uh huh.”

“Were you in bed?”

“What d’you think?”

Jimin looked him up and down. “Are you not working today?”

Jungkook shook his head. “Perks of having a pregnant mate. I can just take leave whenever I want.”

Jimin sighed. He pushed past the alpha into the warm house. The living room was an undeniable mess, couch barely discernible under the mass of blankets and pillows. There were more rugs spread around than Jimin remembered, and some scattered clothes thrown across furniture and the floor.

Jimin padded toward Taehyung’s bedroom, happening upon a cocooned lump under the sheets. The entire house smelled of milky omega, but this room was the strongest; it was almost overwhelming. Taehyung hugged a long pillow to his chest, turned away from the door, and ignored Jimin’s entrance.

“Taehyungie,” Jimin crooned, kneeling on the mattress to lean over him.

“Go away,” Taehyung groaned, curling around the pillow further.

“But it’s spring,” Jimin pouted. “The sun’s out, flowers are blooming. Let’s do something.”

“I dunno ‘bout you, but I’m sleeping,” Taehyung grunted.

“You can’t just lay here until your pup is born.”

“Watch me.”

Jimin puffed out his cheeks. He crawled forward and flopped down behind Taehyung, wrapping himself around the other omega’s back. He nuzzled into Taehyung’s neck.

Taehyung wrinkled his nose. “You smell like Yoongi.”

“You smell like your pup.”

“My pup doesn’t have gross alpha musk.”

Jimin rubbed his nose along Taehyung’s mating mark, and the latter recoiled. It felt wrong for anyone other than a wolf’s mate to touch their mark. “What do you want?” Taehyung complained. “Stop pestering me.”

“I want you to have fun with me. It’s so boring just sitting around,” Jimin whined. “Don’t you love me?”

“You’re so annoying.”

“But you love me,” Jimin sang. He hugged Taehyung tighter and giggled.

“Fine,” Taehyung huffed, trying to roll out of Jimin’s grasp. “I’ll entertain you, hyper pup.”

“Oh, yay,” Jimin piped, shooting up, hair mussed.

Taehyung shifted around and blinked at him blearily. “Nice legs.”

“Thank you,” Jimin hummed. “Yoongi likes them, too.”

Taehyung’s expression soured. “Yuck. So that’s why you smell like... that.”

Jimin slipped off the mattress and wandered toward the window, pulling open the blinds to let in yellow sunrays. Light caught on dancing dust motes and wavered against the pretty furs spread out on Taehyung’s bed. Taehyung squinted and held up a hand to block the glare.

Jimin moved on to searching through Taehyung’s wardrobe. “Do you have anything light and flowy in here?” Jimin asked, sifting through Taehyung’s vast collection.

“If you look hard enough.”

“How do you feel about yellow?”

Taehyung made a disgruntled noise.

“Alright, that’s a no. What about a sky blue?”

Taehyung was quiet. “Yeah, that’d be fine.”

Jimin pulled out the blue dress. He had been considering picking out the lavender blouse beside it, but remembered Taehyung was in no state to wear pants. Luckily, this dress was loose-fitted. When Taehyung begrudgingly changed into the article, it fit around his stomach without pressure, hem nearly to his knees.

“You’re so pretty,” Jimin cooed, grasping Taehyung by the cheeks and grinning at him.

“I like the sleeves,” Taehyung mumbled, gesturing to the flare that started just above his wrists, falling past his hands.

Jimin patted down the skirt, then brushed his hands through Taehyung’s unkempt hair. “You’re glowing, Tae.”

Taehyung snorted. “Doesn’t feel like it.”

Jimin’s touch slid down, palms resting against his shoulders. “Has your energy been low?”

Taehyung shrugged. “I think I just lack the motivation. It’s hard getting up, hard walking around. My body feels like an inconvenience.”

“I’m sorry,” Jimin murmured, rubbing his shoulders. It hurt him to not see the omega happy.

“I’ll be... I’ll just be content to hold my baby, I think,” Taehyung said quietly. “It’s been so long. I’m ready to see them.”

Jimin nodded. “You’re so close.”

“So close,” Taehyung repeated, expression tired.

“Well,” Jimin pondered, “It’s a really nice day. The pups might be playing outside. If not now, soon. We could go watch.”

Taehyung worried his lip, the tension in his brows easing. “That sounds nice.”

Jungkook stepped in and lingered by the entryway. “You need to eat something first, Tae.”

Taehyung pouted, and Jimin grasped his hand, leading him to the door. “I’m not hungry,” Taheyung protested.

“Tough luck,” Jungkook stated, kissing his temple before he let them pass.

The pups were in their wolf forms today, tripping about and scampering on top of each other. There was yipping, tail-biting, and all other sorts of chaos as the caretakers ran around, trying to keep the kids out of trouble. These pups were between the ages of three and six, and they were just bundles of energy and excitement.

Taehyung and Jimin were stretched out on a blanket in the grass, watching them with lazy smiles. Taehyung absently rubbed his belly, paying close attention to one of the smaller pups, coat a vibrant, ruddy brown.

“What color fur do you think your pup will have?” Jimin asked.

“Well, Kook’s is brown, and mine’s gray, so it’s a tossup,” Taehyung replied. “We’ll just have to see.”

“When do they first shift? At two, three?”

“Depends,” Taehyung said. “Sometime after they learn how to walk on their own. I’m sure it happens quicker if their parents shift a lot, so they have some examples on how it’s done—that it even can be done. I think I first shifted when I was almost four; my parents never did, so it took me a while to even try.”

Jimin hummed. “I can’t remember much from before I was five. I might have started later than you, honestly.”

“You did a lot when you were young, though. You and Yoongi would chase each other around,” Taehyung reminded. “Yoongi was a lot faster than you back then. We’d see this black fluff ball rush past, then a little blonde runt tripping along after.”

Jimin frowned with mock offense and lightly shoved him. “Don’t call me a runt!”

“You were pretty small, Chim. Even for an omega,” Taehyung defended. “I wouldn’t be surprised if your pup was tiny, too.”

Jimin curled his fingers into the blanket and looked down at his belly. He hoped his pup wouldn’t be too small. Small pups weren’t always a good sign—they could be weak, malnourished, or premature. He wanted his to be healthy and lively.

Taehyung nudged him. “What fur color do you think yours will have?” He prompted, forcing a shift in topic.

“I’m hoping black,” Jimin admitted. “I think Yoongi’s coat is really pretty.”

“Aww,” Taehyung whined. “But you’re the only blonde wolf in our pack. I wanna see another one running around.”

Jimin shrugged. “Not like it’s up to either of us. Who knows, maybe they’ll be silver, like my eomma.”

“You’ll just have to have a bunch, for variety,” Taehyung snickered.

“Let me see how I handle the first,” Jimin grumbled. “You’re making the later months seem very hard.”

“They are,” Taehyung stated. “But I know it’ll be worth it. Even if I’m tired and aching, I know I’m caring for my baby, protecting them. And I know they’ll be just as happy to see me when they’re finally here, out in the world with the rest of us.”

“I wonder if it’s easier to protect them once they’re born, or if it only gets harder.”

Taehyung exhaled and leaned back on his palms, gaze drifting to a pair of pups nipping at each other’s ears. One of the pups tripped over his own big paws, rolling into the other with a huff.

“I don’t know, but... we can’t help it, so why worry?” Taehyung mumbled. The breeze ruffled his hair, and he tilted his head back. “Jungkook gets so worked up about all this, y’know. He thinks once the pup’s born, we’ll be able to just pack up and leave when we need to. But I know him better than that.” Taehyung frowned, a tension in jaw. “He couldn’t live without Hoseok, or Yoongi, o-or you. He thinks he’d be able to give up the pack for us, but...” Taehyung shook his head. “It’s not realistic.”

Jimin pursed his lips. “I suppose that’s not terrible news,” Jimin muttered. “Yoongi seems to think he’d be able to send me off with you guys.”

Taehyung snorted. “You don’t listen to anyone, much less your mate.”

“And I can’t be without him,” Jimin stated. “It’s just that simple. I try to imagine a life where I’m raising this kid, and he’s not my mate, or he’s just... not with me, and I can’t even form a picture. It’s not right.”

“Well,” Taehyung sighed, “If we’re lucky, things will really mellow out, and it’ll be different, like we hoped. We’ve seen peace for two weeks. Who’s to say it won’t last longer?”

Jimin watched Byulyi, one of the caretakers, try to herd four pups toward her. She groaned as the biggest of the lot scampered away playfully. To these kids, all was right in the world. They didn’t feel the looming threat seemingly closing in on them. They surely didn’t lie awake at night, scared of the dark fantasies their nightmares would produce. Jimin wanted them to feel safe and free like he had growing up. He wanted the same for Taehyung’s child, as well.

“No matter what happens,” Jimin slowly, “Trust that you are going to be fine.”

Taehyung tilted his head, hooded gaze fixed on Jimin, smile solemn. “Just me?”

“If anyone’s coming out of this unscathed, it’s you and your pup. We’ll make sure of it,” Jimin murmured. “Because I love you.”

Taehyung reached out and rested his hand atop Jimin’s. His expression evened out, false calm replaced by a firm neutrality. “And I love you.” He licked his lips. “Jimin, you’ve protected me enough throughout our lives. I think it’s time you focus on yourself. On your own safety.”

“I’m trying,” Jimin said in a small voice. “I might be making too many promises—”

“Then swear to me,” Taehyung said, voice hushed. “I know the weight it holds for you. So I’m going to need you to swear, and keep it close to your heart. And...” He sighed, shoulders slumping. “Listen to us.”

“Okay,” Jimin said slowly. “I swear.”

“You mean it?”

Jimin offered a small smile.

☽○☾

Yoongi made Jimin wear a light coat on their walk to his parents’ house. Jimin fussed about how it covered up his nice shoulders; Yoongi hiked the coat up higher, covering his neck.

“It’s a long walk,” he muttered, glaring at any alpha they passed whose glance lingered.

The coat covered his bump as well, so Jimin had to do more than the bare minimum of standing in front of his mother to break the news for her.

They were nearing the cabin when Dasung jogged up to them, seemingly out of nowhere. “Jimin, hey, look at something for me,” she said, nodding casually at Yoongi.

Jimin stared at her, wide-eyed. “Sure. Uh, first—where’d you come from?”

“My parents’ place,” she said simply, keeping pace with them. “Dinner was boring as shit, so I sorta zoned out, and I was thinking about this move you showed me. And I was thinking, like, how high should the kick be?”

“Show me what it’s looking like right now,” Jimin said, pace slowing as Dasung walked ahead of him into view. Yoongi slung an arm over Jimin’s shoulders and held him out of range of the younger omega.

Dasung made a short dash and kicked out, seemingly too focused on getting it right to be embarrassed by her display, in the middle of the open public.

“First off, you’re not getting enough momentum,” Jimin stated with a frown. “You’re going high enough, but you need more force going into it. I would also work on keeping your arms closer to yourself, otherwise you’re leaving yourself exposed.” Jimin demonstrated, arms held close to his stomach.

Dasung tried again, and Yoongi snorted. “What?” Dasung whined.

“Over your stomach,” he stated. “Like Jimin said. You’re blocking your chest. A blow to your stomach is going to do more damage. It’s a soft spot.”

“I tried,” Dasung grumbled.

“It takes practice,” Jimin offered.

They were cresting the hill now, front porch in sight. As they neared, the cabin door opened and Jihyun stepped out, crossing his arms as he watched them approach. “You’re late,” he called.

“Yoongi made me put on a coat!” Jimin exclaimed. “I had to find one that matched.” He gestured to the silvery pelt.

Jihyun rolled his eyes. “Such omega priorities.”

“What was that?” Jimin yelled, scowling. “You wanna repeat that, pup?”

“I’m technically not a pup anymore. I presented, dumbass.”

“Oh yeah, thanks for telling me,” Jimin retorted. “I had to hear it from Taehyung.”

“Maybe if you came to my birthday dinner—”

“We were dealing with a bit of a crisis,” Jimin huffed. He stopped in front of the steps. “Happy belated birthday, brat.”

“Did you get me a gift?”

Jimin snorted. “Of course not. You’re not a pup anymore, remember?”

Jihyun grunted. His eyes roved over the lot of them, widening as he noticed Dasung. “Dasung?” He addressed, fairly surprised.

Dasung was idling behind them. She perked up and arched a brow. “Wow, you remember me.”

“It hasn’t been that long,” Jihyun replied, brows furrowed. “How do you know these guys?”

“I’m a hunter,” she stated.

“I thought you worked in the kitchens.”

“I did.”

Jihyun paused. “Oh,” he said simply. He was perhaps staring, and Dasung definitely wasn’t oblivious to it.

“What?”

“N-nothing,” Jihyun stuttered.

Dasung laughed dryly. “I guess you’re still an idiot, huh?”

“Does one ever grow out of it?”

Dasung smirked. “Fair. So, how’s it feel being an alpha and all?”

He shrugged. “My scent’s changed. That’s about it.”

“Oh c’mon, you’re taller,” Dasung offered.

“He gets the height from Jae,” Jimin said slowly, glancing between the two and their mirrored smiles. Jimin was getting a very weird feeling, and he wanted it to end—now. “Well, thanks for catching up with us, Dasung,” he said, ushering her away. “Have a good night.”

Dasung hesitated a beat. “Yeah,” she said, seemingly processing some things. “Night.”

Jihyun bit his lip and watched as she walked away.

Jimin rolled his eyes. “Gross,” he muttered as he ascended the steps, Yoongi’s steadying hand at his back, and passed his brother.

The house already smelled like food when they stepped inside. Sooyun was preoccupied in the kitchen; she didn’t notice their entrance. Jimin quietly padded across the old floors, sneaking into the kitchen. He tapped his mother’s shoulder, and she yelped, spinning around to brandish a wooden spoon at him.

Jimin snickered while his mother gaped, body shaking with mirth. “You little fiend!” Sooyun exclaimed, slapping his arm and setting down her spoon. “My heart could have stopped!”

“It’s good to see you, Eomma,” he crooned in apology.

“C’mere, you troublesome child,” Sooyun grumbled, holding out her arms to pull Jimin into a hug. She squeezed him tight and pressed her nose to the crook of his neck. A pause passed before Sooyun shifted, grip loosening as she picked up on his odd scent.

When she pulled away, Jimin was already smiling knowingly. He sort of wanted his mother to figure it out for herself. She seemed hesitant, though, as if her first assumption was too good to be true.

Jimin opened his coat and slid it off his arms, revealing the tight material of his dress stretched over his small bump. He arched a brow. “Well?” He teased.

Sooyun gasped, the realization fully hitting her. “Jimin,” she whined, petulant and overjoyed all at once.

She tugged Jimin into her arms once more, rocking them back and forth as Jimin giggled. “A pup!” Sooyun exclaimed. “Oh, and you can already smell it so strongly. How far along are you?”

“About three and a half months,” Jimin wheezed, losing breath from the crushing embrace.

Yoongi stepped into the kitchen and leaned into the counter, watching the exchange with amusement. When Sooyun spotted him, though, a look of caution overtook him, and rightfully so. Sooyun quickly unlatched herself from Jimin and rushed forward to engulf Yoongi in a hug instead.

“Good job, Yoongi,” she praised, patting his back.

Yoongi’s eyes widened helplessly.

“I knew you’d do a good job. You really were a good pick.”

Yoongi mouthed “help,” and Jimin merely gawked.

“Eomma,” he complained. “Why are you praising him? I’m the one doing all the work!” He stomped his foot childishly for extra effect.

The tantrum worked, as Sooyun quickly released Yoongi and returned to Jimin, cupping his hands between her own. “I know, sweetie. I’m just really glad it’s Yoongi who ended up getting you pregnant. There isn’t an abundance of great alphas in the world.”

Jihyun awkwardly coughed, idling in the living room, overhearing it all.

“Oh, shush. You’re barely more than a child,” Sooyun retorted, barely sparing a glance at her son.

“What about Ma?”

“I never said there weren’t exceptions,” Sooyun protested. She focused on Jimin again, pouting. “I am proud of you, too, though. You’re going to make such a beautiful pup, Jimin. I’m going to have the perfect grandchild.”

Yoongi snorted. “Don’t overwhelm him, Eomma. He doesn’t do well under pressure.”

Jimin squinted at Yoongi. “You wanna give this pregnancy thing a spin, Yoon?”

Yoongi raised his hands in surrender. “Nope. I’m grateful you’re taking one for the team, love.”

Hyunjae walked in then, wind slamming the front door behind her. Sooyun perked up and released Jimin. “Jae!” She exclaimed, scampering over in a manner too similar to a child. “Our Jiminie’s expecting!” She said, tone bubbly as she pointed at Jimin.

Hyunjae smiled at her mate sheepishly.

Sooyun’s eyes narrowed. “You knew before I did, didn’t you?”

“Sorry,” Hyunjae sighed.

“How long?”

Her eyes flickered to Jimin briefly. “Um, two months, maybe?”

Sooyun groaned. “How did you keep that from me?” She lightly slapped Hyunjae’s forearm, throwing a little fit of her own. So maybe that’s where Jimin picked his childish nature up from.

Hyunjae chuckled and shook her head. “It wasn’t easy,” she insisted. “Especially when you ranted about your free-spirited son one late night. But, shortie,” she paused, tone firm, “You know I had to let him do it on his own terms. Plus, so much can go wrong during the first few months.”

Jimin rested a hand over his belly, very grateful they had made it so far, everything still intact.

“I know,” Sooyun sighed.

“Eomma,” Jihyun called, sniffing the air. “I think something’s burning.”

“Shit,” Sooyun muttered, jogging back into the kitchen. She checked on the stove, stirred a couple pots, then shoved Yoongi and Jimin out. “Everyone get settled. Dinner will be ready soon.”

Jimin hung onto Yoongi and stumbled toward the dining table. The places were already set, and Jimin and Jihyun took up their usual spots across from each other. Hyunjae helped Sooyun carry over the food when it was done.

Yoongi fixed Jimin’s plate, and the omega merely sighed as he watched his mate pile on way too much. Sooyun nodded approvingly, though, so Jimin had no room to protest.

“Noticed any spotting recently?” Hyunjae asked abruptly, question aimed at Jimin.

Jimin paused, glancing around awkwardly. “No?”

“Any unusual pains?”

“I don’t know. My back hurts half the time,” he said uneasily.

Sooyun nudged her. “No medical talk, please. If he wanted a checkup, he would’ve gone to see you.”

Hyunjae leaned back. “I was just curious,” she pouted.

“I think I’m fine, Jae,” Jimin stated. “I overreact, so if something was wrong, you’d hear about it. Plus, I’ve always got this one nagging at me.” Jimin nodded toward Yoongi.

“I’m precautious,” Yoongi defended.

“Let him fret, Jimin. It’s just his instincts,” Sooyun said. “You should be worried when he stops watching you like a hawk and catering to your every whim.”

Yoongi smirked; Jimin glowered. “Don’t encourage him.”

“I’m sorry, but I would prefer my baby’s always safe and cared for,” Sooyun said. “You’re a good alpha, Yoongi.”

“Speaking of alphas,” Jimin said loudly, forcefully changing the subject. “How’s the dorm, Jihyun?”

“Godawful,” Jihyun stated.

“He’s being dramatic,” Sooyun said.

“Eomma, it reeks of alpha. Everywhere. Do you know how annoying that gets? Their scents are on my stuff, and it just...” He dramatically shuddered. “It irks me. It gets me into this weird alpha aggression that I really do not enjoy.”

“Would you prefer the omega dorm? People steal your stuff, and we share a bath,” Jimin said, arching a challenging brow.

“At least it’d smell better in there,” Jihyun muttered.

“Not when you’re an omega, too!” Jimin protested. “It’s too fragrant in there. It gets hard to breathe if you’re not numb to it. A hint of alpha would be refreshing.”

“Not to pick sides, but I’m with Jihyun on this one,” Yoongi spoke up.

“You literally just picked a side.”

Yoongi shushed his mate. “I wasn’t finished.”

Jimin rolled his eyes.

“It’s loud, especially if you’re on the first floor. There’s always someone banging around upstairs, for some ungodly reason. When wolves break things, they don’t fix it. I once saw a girl drape a sheet over a hole she punched in the wall, as if that solved anything!” Yoongi ranted.

“And my god, the ruts. Some of these idiots think it’s alright to spend their ruts in the dorm, because it doesn’t induce other alpha’s cycles, like what happens with omegas. But it smells awful! And it’s disgusting! No one wants to be around that!” Yoongi huffed and crossed his arms, resting back in his chair. “Get out as soon as you can.”

Jihyun wrinkled his nose. “Great.”

Sooyun glanced at Hyunjae, gauging her reaction.

“He’s not wrong,” Hyunjae admitted. “I lived there for two years. I’m not entirely sure how I lasted that long.”

“Yoongi barely made it a year,” Jimin recalled. “I think he was done with the house before I even presented.”

Yoongi nodded. “Couldn’t stand living in that damn dorm any longer.”

“It’s funny, though. You built a home for your future mate before you even knew I was an omega,” Jimin mused.

“We’ve been over this, Min,” Yoongi said, sliding a palm down Jimin’s thigh. “I would’ve courted you, omega or not.”

Jimin softened. Then Jihyun ruined the moment.

“Jimin’s rank has always been obvious. He organizes his clothes by color and fluffs pillows for minutes on end. He’s infuriatingly omega,” he snorted, shaking his head.

Jimin gawked, ready to chew his brother out, when Yoongi beat him to it. “I’ve actually learned that living with an omega is great. I grew up with pretty well-balanced parents, but Jimin’s a whole new level of neat and pleasant.” Jimin blinked up at him, doe-eyed. “Not to influence your courting decisions, but omegas are amazing. He washes our clothes on a regular schedule. He replaced my old drapes with something that actually suits the house. I didn’t know damn drapes were so important until Jimin showed me. And he just smells good, always. I don’t know how, but he does.”

Yoongi was absently rubbing Jimin’s thigh, and Jimin was watching him reverantly as he spoke. The praise alone had him purring. It took him a few moments to even notice the rumbling in his chest, rising up his throat.

Meanwhile, Jihyun was glancing between them with brotherly disgust. He made a rather dramatic, disgruntled noise.

Jimin’s attention snapped to the youngest, and he scowled. “Don’t make that face. My mate is being cute,” Jimin said, kicking Jihyun under the table.

“Your mate’s being sappy.” Jihyun kicked him in return

“Maybe I like it when he’s sappy!” Jimin argued. He winced when Jihyun hit his shin. He was revving up to kick out again when Sooyun slammed her hand on the table.

“No fighting,” she snapped with exasperation. “You,” she pointed at Jihyun, “Are not allowed to hurt him until that pup is born. When you hurt Jimin, you hurt my grandchild.”

Jihyun paused. “So, I can hurt him after the pup’s born?”

Jimin squawked in protest. “Eomma!”

“That’s not what I meant,” Sooyun grumbled, pinching the bridge of her nose. “Jae, your sons are absolute irritances.”

“Sorry, but I know at least one of those boys is yours,” she replied.

“Eomma, he kicked me again!” Jimin wailed.

“Did not!” Jihyun argued, raising a dinner roll to chuck at Jimin.

Jimin picked up a serving spoon and pointed it at his brother, glaring him down. “You try anything, pup, and I’ll kick your ass.”

“No asses are getting kicked,” Yoongi tried to quell.

“Yeah,” Jihyun petulantly replied. “You can’t even fight. You’ve got that stupid bump in the way.”

“Did you just call my pup stupid?” Jimin hissed. He dropped the spoon and picked up a roll of his own. “Yoongi, kick his ass for me.”

“He can’t do that.”

“Uh, yeah he can. Pack rules. Alphas can fight alphas.”

“That doesn’t sound right.”

“Oh, like you’d know!”

Yoongi sighed, shutting his eyes amidst the typical chaos. “Does anyone have wine?”

☽○☾

Jimin was finishing up his lunch in the dining hall, Hoseok and Dasung chatting across from him. He set his fork down, then suddenly there was another plate being thrust in front of him. Jimin looked up and blinked, taken aback.

Hoseok smiled at him somewhat sheepishly.

“Seriously?” Jimin grumbled. “I’m not going to eat that.”

“You should be eating lots,” Hoseok stated. “C’mon, Jiminie. I just want your pup to be healthy.”

“My pup’s just fine with how I’m feeding it, thank you,” Jimin huffed. “And my ma already told me I’m at a standard weight for how far along I am. I don’t need to be eating everyone’s leftovers, too.”

“You can’t blame him,” Dasung said. “We all feel a sense of responsibility, like this is our communal baby.” She paused. “Aw, our hunter baby.”

Hoseok snickered and nodded.

“By the moon, the lot of you are going to be insufferable,” Jimin muttered.

Jimin was hit with Seokjin’s scent, and before he could blink, the omega was sliding into the seat beside him, Haeju on his hip.

“How was your meal this afternoon?” He asked pleasantly, adjusting Haeju to bounce on his lap.

“Fine. Why?” Jimin asked suspiciously. “Did we get served undercooked meat?”

Seokjin snorted. “No. I’m just doing casual evaluations. If the pack isn’t satisfied, my staff needs to up their game.”

“The potatoes could spend longer under heat,” Dasung drawled. “They were stiff. Or I guess you could cut them up into smaller squares, so they cook faster.”

Seokjin narrowed his eyes at her tone, yet nodded. “Noted.”

“You’re working while you watch your kid?” Jimin commented, pushing the plates away to rest his cheek on an upturned palm.

“I’m not technically working, but I’ve got nothing better to do right now. And Joon’s busy all afternoon, so I’ve got the baby,” he explained. “Not that I mind.” He leaned down and rubbed his nose against Haeju’s. The boy giggled and squirmed in his father’s grasp.

“He’s so excitable,” Hoseok said, watching them intently.

“Mm, my little giggle monster,” Seokjin cooed.

“Do you think about having another?” Jimin asked, drawing Seokjin’s attention.

Seokjin outright laughed. “Nope. Pregnancy was a literal pain in my ass. I’m not going through that again, unless it happens on accident. Then I suppose I can grin and bear it.”

“I guess when your first pup’s entertaining enough, you don’t feel the need to have another,” Hoseok mused. He reached out, and Haeju grasped onto a long finger with curious intent.

Haeju was standing on Seokjin’s lap, nearly bouncing on his own as Seokjin held him steady.

“Head Omega Kim!”

They all shifted around in surprise, focusing on the flustered young medic weaving through the lunch crowd to reach their table. She stopped and exhaled, chest heaving as if she’d been running.

“Yes?” Seokjin replied, worry evident in his tone. “Are you alright?”

“A little out of breath,” she waved off. The medic straightened up. “Jeon Taehyung’s in labor. He asked that I come find you. He wants you to be there.”

Seokjin stilled, visibly shocked. “Oh,” he gasped. “Oh, god. Okay.” He seemed to collect himself, standing quickly. He passed Haeju off to a confused Jimin.

“You can take care of him until later, right?” He said rather than asked.

Jimin gaped. “Um, sure,” he said uneasily. Jimin had never cared for a toddler before, much less the son of the pack alpha.

“Thank you,” Seokjin said breathlessly. “I’ll be sure to tell you everything when I find you again, okay?”

Jimin nodded, just as taken aback as the elder. Then Seokjin scurried off, following the medic to Taehyung’s house.

“Shit,” Hoseok said, staring after where they had disappeared. “Is Tae due yet?”

Jimin wracked his brain for the date. It was the end of May, just over a week until Taehyung was due. “Not quite. But close enough, I guess.”

“The pup must be eager to get out,” Dasung said. “I envy the poor bastard. I’d love to lay around in warm darkness.”

Jimin and Hoseok turned toward her slowly, donning identical, perplexed looks. Dasung glanced between them, then shrugged.

“Well, I guess I have to figure out how to entertain a kid for who knows how many hours,” Jimin said, shifting Haeju around to face him. The boy had a fist in his mouth, eyes wandering. He was totally oblivious to the stressed scents surrounding him.

“Good luck?” Hoseok offered.

“Thanks,” Jimin muttered.

Yoongi was perhaps just a little confused when he returned home later that afternoon, finding Jimin sat in their living room, a pup across from him. The pup was playing with some wooden toys—Yoongi’s old toys, which his parents had saved. Jimin perked up when he heard Yoongi enter, noting the furrow of Yoongi’s brow.

“I feel like I skipped forward a couple years,” Yoongi said slowly.

Jimin snickered. “Can you imagine? Blinking, and suddenly I’ve had the pup, and—oh, it looks strikingly like Namjoon.”

Yoongi shook his head. “Good thing it’s just Haeju.”

“Oh, but you don’t know that,” Jimin teased. “I guess you never really know who knocked me up until the pup’s born.”

Yoongi did not look amused by that comment.

“I’m kidding!” Jimin laughed, eyes sparkling as he watched Yoongi walk into the kitchen. “It was you, Yoongi. I swear. I would never let my other lovers knock me up.”

“Real funny, Jimin,” Yoongi said dryly. Jimin heard the clink of glass, then the tap running. “That’s a good joke. Keep it up.”

“Are you pouting in there?” Jimin called, eyes crinkling up in amusement. “Don’t be a poor sport, Yoon. You know you’re my one and only.”

Yoongi was finishing off a glass of water when he walked back into view. He arched a brow. “Well, now I’m not so sure.”

Jimin snorted. He patted the spot on the rug beside him. Yoongi set his empty glass down and walked forward, settling beside Jimin. Jimin leaned into him, resting his cheek against Yoongi’s shoulder.

“So, why’s the kid here?”

“Tae’s in labor, and Seokjin was in a rush to get to him.”

“We’re stuck with his son for a while, huh?”

Jimin hummed. “Who knows how long it’ll take for them to get that pup out.”

“I was gonna make something spicy for dinner, but I guess I should keep it mild if we’re going to be feeding Haeju tonight.”

Jimin glanced back at the window, cracked open and spring breeze rustling their drapes. The sun was low in the sky, waning light orange and deep. “Yeah. Looks like he’ll be here for dinner.”

Haeju began to stare at Yoongi, then offered out a little fox, orange paint chipped around the edges. Yoongi took it with careful hands, and Haeju smiled. “Thank you,” he said quietly.

“I think he wants you to play with him,” Jimin mused as Haeju patted the rug.

Yoongi stood the fox on the ground. “Do you know what sound foxes make?”

Haeju’s lips parted in thought. “Bark.”

“Sort of,” Yoongi replied. “It’s more of a yip.”

“Yip,” Haeju repeated.

“Do you know what animal does bark?”

“Wolf!” Haeju exclaimed, elated and so very sure of himself. “Like me.”

Yoongi nodded and smirked. “Like you. Y’know, you’ll be able to shift soon enough. You’ll get to run and chase birds like the other pups.”

Haeju hummed and grasped the bird toy, raising it up to spin it around. “You shift?”

“I do,” Yoongi replied. “Quite a lot. I go out and catch food for you, and all the other wolves in our pack.”

“Papa,” Haeju said slowly, “Not like shift.”

Jimin snickered. “Well, it can be uncomfortable when you don’t do it enough. I’m not supposed to shift right now, but after I have my pup, I’m sure the first time after so long will feel weird.”

Haeju set the bird down and crawled forward, splaying his fingers. He set his palm on Jimin’s belly. “In here?”

Jimin blinked at him owlishly. “Yes. You’re very smart.”

Haeju sat back and raised his arms, expecting a reward. Jimin giggled and fitted his hands around the boy’s small waist, lifting him up to cuddle in his lap. Jimin hugged Haeju against his chest, and the pup squealed when Jimin began to tickle his sides.

When Haeju settled down and nuzzled into Jimin’s neck, Yoongi patted Jimin’s thigh and stood. “I’ll go start dinner.”

Jimin continued playing with Haeju, making short conversation as Yoongi moved through the kitchen. The alpha continually checked in on them every few minutes, ducking away when Haeju noticed him and yelled, “Yoonie!”

The scent of sizzling food began to fill the house. Soon enough, Jimin’s stomach was rumbling. Haeju’s eyes widened and stared at his belly. “Pup is hungry?” He asked.

Jimin smiled and ruffled his hair. “I guess so. Good thing we get to eat in a little bit.”

Haeju stilled at this, processing as much as he could from that statement. “Papa?” He asked, looking at Jimin expectantly.

“Papa’s still busy.”

Haeju frowned, confused. “Papa feed me.”

Oh, Jimin thought with mild distress. The boy had never eaten without his father before. It might be troubling for him to break from that routine. Jimin cleared his throat and glanced around, trying to figure out how best to handle this.

“Would it be okay if Jii fed you tonight?” He offered, keeping his tone light.

Haeju puffed out his cheeks and knocked over his toys he had been stacking. “No.”

He was going to cry, Jimin thought, helplessness working at his insides. He took a deep breath. “Alright, that’s okay.” Haeju fixed his watery eyes on Jimin. “You’re okay,” Jimin gently insisted, reaching forward to cover the boy’s hands in the warmth of his own. “What about Yoonie? Would it be okay if he fed you?”

Haeju sniffled and blinked through the tears, clearly hesitant.

“I promise he’s patient and nice,” Jimin crooned.

“Then... then Yoonie,” Haeju mumbled, short and simple agreement.

He didn’t fuss when Jimin picked him up and carried him to the table once dinner was ready. He was actually rather calm when Yoongi held him in his lap; the boy leaned into Yoongi’s chest, soothed by the protective pheromones the alpha was emitting for his sake.

Yoongi fed him small bites, paying closer attention to the pup than to his own meal. Jimin fondly watched how patiently Yoongi fed him, no matter how slow his chewing was or how he distractedly babbled about anything that popped into his head. Yoongi merely nodded along, cleaning up when the boy got food on his chin.

Yoongi absently fiddled with one of Haeju’s hands, the pup’s absolutely dwarfed in the alpha’s large palm. Yoongi didn’t even seem to be aware of his little movements, how his fingers carefully wrapped around Haeju, tugged him closer when the boy bounced forward.

When Jimin was mostly finished with his meal, he set it aside and leaned in to brush his fingers through Yoongi’s hair. He was still looking at his mate with loving eyes, awed by how fatherly Yoongi was acting. The omega part of him was thrilled that this was his mate—the future caretaker for his pup.

“He’s quite spoiled, hm?” Yoongi murmured, leaning in so only Jimin could hear. Haeju was rather distracted by a clump of rice, anyway.

“He’s an only child. They tend to be pretty spoiled,” Jimin teased.

“I didn’t always need to be held and fed by someone,” Yoongi lightly protested.

“Not as far as you can remember,” Jimin snickered. “You whined a lot to your eomma, though, and she always doted on you.” Jimin paused. “To be fair, I think that only taught you compassion.”

“I was getting ready to argue with you if you were talking down on my eomma,” Yoongi said, only half-jokingly.

“I wouldn’t dare,” Jimin replied. “You take after her, y’know. In so many ways.”

Yoongi’s gaze flickered to him, warm yet surprised. “Yeah?”

Jimin nodded. “You’re doing this patient parent thing really well.”

“Just wait until he gets fussy before we start patting ourselves on the back.”

Jimin snickered. “Maybe we’ll take precautions and put him to sleep early.”

When Haeju finished eating, Yoongi collected the dishes, and Jimin gathered the pup back up in his arms. He stretched out on the sofa, Haeju curling up on his chest, tired and sated from his meal. Jimin watched the lamp in the corner of the room flicker as he rubbed Haeju’s back, helping his breathing even out.

Haeju wiggled up and sniffed at Jimin’s neck. He whimpered, dissatisfied that it didn’t match the familiar scents of his fathers. Jimin hugged him closer and purred, hoping the rumble of his chest would soothe him somewhat. Haeju settled with a sigh, but still felt too tense to fall asleep.

So, Jimin began to hum a tune. The lullaby in his throat had helped him drift off many times when he was a pup. He let the lyrics come to him, rolling off his tongue, thick with his purring. “Watch the stars, little one,” he crooned. “Glimmering through the treetops.”

Jimin could hear the faucet running, the occasional shift of glass. He shut his eyes. “Follow the brightest in the west,” Jimin softly sang, chest rising and falling steadily as he breathed. “Through paths of holly and green.”

Haeju sniffled and exhaled, fist uncurling as he relaxed.

“Pass our river down south, the water a murmuring tune.” A breath. “Steady paws, little one. Rise when you stumble. In the woods, you’re never lost. I promise, precious pup,” Jimin paused, hum drawn out. “You are on your way home.”

The faucet stopped, and Jimin inhaled a deep breath. Haeju was asleep.

When the night was heavy above them, wind a mere whisper through the branches, there came a knock at their door. Yoongi stopped, fingers having run through Jimin’s hair as he crouched in front of the sofa. They had both been watching Haeju sleep for a while now, basking in the peaceful quiet.

Yoongi slowly stood and walked to the door, letting Seokjin in. The omega’s cheeks were pink from the evening chill, and his tense shoulders eased when he saw his son. “Has he been much trouble?”

“Not at all,” Jimin murmured, rubbing the boy’s back. “I’m sure he’ll be happy to be returned to you, though.”

“How’s the pup?” Yoongi asked.

Seokjin paused, suddenly reminded of their circumstances. He exhaled and smiled, warm from the inside out. “She’s just wonderful.”

Jimin carefully propped himself up. “And Tae?”

“Tired, a little weak, but no complications,” Seokjin assured. “There was a lot of crying, but they’re both healthy.”

Jimin nodded, sighing in relief. He licked his lips, excitement welling up within him now that his worries were washed away. “What’s she like?”

“She’s a pup,” Seokjin chuckled. “She wailed and clung to her father the moment she was on his chest. No name yet, by the way. But by the moon, those two are enamored. They barely bothered to say goodbye when I left, too occupied with their cute little baby.”

Jimin smiled. “When can we see them?”

“Oh, I’d give it a couple days. It may take Taehyung a while to recover and be ready for company.”

“Okay,” Jimin nodded in understanding. “God, I’m so happy for them.”

“Be happy for yourself,” Seokjin snorted. He approached the sofa and bent down, gently plucking up his son and cradling him to his chest. “That’ll be you soon enough. Time flies when you’re growing a mini person. And then suddenly they’re infants, and toddlers, and babbling your ear off every day.”

Seokjin stroked Haeju’s mop of fluffy hair and readjusted his grip, safely nestling the boy against him. “Thank you for this, though. I realized belatedly how much pressure I put you under,” he said with a hint of amusement.

Yoongi shrugged. “I think we handled it alright.”

“It made for good practice,” Jimin added.

“Well, then I’m glad to be of assistance.” He shifted to move toward the door, pausing in the entryway. “Goodnight,” he offered softly.

“Goodnight,” Jimin returned.

Once they were gone, Jimin flopped back on the couch with a heavy exhale. Yoongi sat down beside him, caressing the curve of his hip and thigh, in his own cloud of contemplation. Then Jimin reached up with tentative fingers and tugged Yoongi’s shirt.

Yoongi chuckled at the wordless request and laid down beside him. He curled around Jimin, and the omega pressed himself close, head tucked into the crook of his mate’s neck. He hummed them a lullaby of their own.

Chapter Text

“I don’t know why she does that.”

“What, taking care of him?”

“Well, not even that. It’s the scent-marking and the weird parental tone. She’s acting like he’s her pup or something.”

“Isn’t she courting his mother?”

“As if that makes a difference. It’s like she’s living in some sort of delusion.”

A muffled snicker. “I suppose at that age, your only option is taking in orphans.”

“Isn’t that the funniest part of it all, though? He’s not even an orphan. She’s just taking care of another alpha’s pup, acting like he’s hers. It’s ridiculous.”

“God, I can’t imagine my mate doing that.”

“Isn’t that a blow to an alpha’s pride?”

“You’d think so.”

As young as he was, Jimin heard the whispers, the muttered gossip in the dining hall, the care facility, and even in the infirmary. Always when Hyunjae’s back was turned. Always when they were still well within earshot.

Jimin knew Jae heard it, too. She would hold Jimin’s hand tighter or snuggle him closer against her chest. She tried to ignore it for his sake, always so passive and considerate towards those that spoke venom about her.

Even after Sooyun and Hyunjae mated, Jimin was spoken of like some bastard child. No matter how much her own pack’s gossip and vile words hurt her, Hyunjae didn’t let it show.

Her rebuttals were quiet. When they called Jimin “Sooyun’s son,” she’d smile and correct them.

“Our son.”

She always fought back with love—love for her mate, for Jimin, for the pack that scorned her.

Jimin only wished they would be kinder, that they would take the time to really understand. Because before Hyunjae, it had only been Sooyun and Jimin. Jimin loved his eomma, truly, but she was lonely. She felt out of place in the new pack, carrying the weight of a new culture and life, incapable of brushing off the rumors and criticisms.

Jimin saw how happy his mother was around the head healer, how much lighter she seemed in Hyunjae’s presence. He may have been too young to fully process his surroundings, or why there was an underlying conflict in the first place, but Jimin followed Hyunjae’s lead—he responded with love.

When the other pups teased him for having one parent, he would correct them. “But I’ve got two eommas.”

When the harsh whispers of the old omegas in the dining hall reached them, Jimin would meet their eyes, his own gaze wide and innocent. Then he would nuzzle into Hyunjae’s neck—a sign of possession, security, and affection.

And at night, when Hyunjae was the eomma to tuck him in, sometimes Jimin would grasp her hand and urge her to stay a bit longer.

Hyunjae would kiss each of his little knuckles, then his cheeks, and his tiny nose.

“Ma,” Jimin would sleepily mumble. “Sing.”

Hyunjae would rub his back, steady melody rising from her chest. It was a lullaby Jimin memorized over the years, forever ingrained in his heart.

“Steady paws, little one,” she softly sang, gentle tune coaxing Jimin toward the warmth and comfort of sleep. “Rise when you stumble. In the woods, you’re never lost.”

☽○☾

“Jimin, we need to get going,” Yoongi called from down the hall.

Jimin tugged on a light fur and fluffed out the skirt of his dress before rushing out of the bedroom. “I’m coming,” he whined. Yoongi ruffled Jimin’s hair as the omega stepped around him toward the kitchen counter, reaching for the gift wrapped in a soft blanket.

Sooyun had sewn some baby clothes for Taehyung and Jungkook’s pup, knowing that Jimin would get to see her before Sooyun had the chance.

“Okay, I’m ready,” Jimin said with a huff, only slightly out of breath.

“Don’t strain yourself,” Yoongi snorted, looping an arm through Jimin’s to tug him close. “And you know it’s June, right?” He teased, looking pointedly at Jimin’s fur.

“It’s still a bit chilly.”

Yoongi arched a disbelieving brow.

“Alright, so maybe I’m a little embarrassed,” Jimin grumbled as he hiked up the collar of the fur, trying to hide the smattering of dark marks along his shoulders and neck. “I don’t need Jungkook joking that I look like I’ve been mauled. Because we know he just can’t help himself.”

“I thought you were proud of the marks,” Yoongi said in a gruff voice, snickering as he leaned down to nuzzle against Jimin’s jaw.

Jimin squawked indignantly and pulled away. “Don’t fluster me right now! We have a pup to visit.”

Jimin pointedly ignored Yoongi’s rumbling laughs, tugging him along toward the exit. Stepping outside proved the air to be warmer than Jimin expected, as Yoongi had alluded to. Treetops were swaying, wind carrying the heavy scent of blooming flowers and drifting pollen. Sunlight filtered through shaking branches, spilling across the lush expanse of grass.

As Yoongi fell quiet, Jimin leaned into him heavily, cheek pressed to his mate’s shoulder. It was a lovely, peaceful day, and Jimin was content to have Yoongi with him. The head hunter had taken the day off just for this one occasion.

“Who do you think she’ll resemble most?” Jimin asked, excited to see the pup for the first time, scent her, and hold her tiny hand. If Jimin wasn’t already pregnant, he was sure he’d be consumed by baby fever.

Yoongi hummed. “Namjoon,” he said decisively.

Jimin snorted and pressed his cheek harder against Yoongi, looking up at him with narrowed eyes and a pout. “Seriously,” Jimin whined. “I think she’ll look like Jungkook. Pups always look like the alpha when they’re young.”

“Oh, so if our pup doesn’t look like me, I should be worried?” Yoongi joked.

“Exactly,” Jimin replied, a glimmer in his gaze. “C’mon, what’s your guess?”

“Well, I have to say Taehyung, just so I can get the opportunity to prove you wrong.”

“Competitive,” Jimin drawled.

“That is literally the basis of our relationship. The single thing holding us together is our primal need to one-up each other.”

“How romantic. How does our child play into this?”

“They’ll allow us to see who’s the best parent. And we all know I’m going to win.” Yoongi leaned down and quickly kissed Jimin’s hair. “I always win.”

“I’d challenge you to a brawl if I could,” Jimin said. “And then I’d wipe that smirk right off your pretty face.”

Yoongi dramatically gasped. “You think I’m pretty?”

Jimin giggled at his wide eyes and bubbly tone, curling into Yoongi as his shoulders shook with mirth. Yoongi reached around and held Jimin steady against him, smattering more kisses from his forehead to his cheeks.

Jimin stumbled a few steps as he continued to giggle, Yoongi rushing to hold him upright. They neared the Jeons’ cabin just as Hyunjae was stepping out, the elder pausing to watch their exchange.

“Don’t trip, lovebirds,” she said, crossing her arms and leveling them with a knowing smile.

“Ma,” Jimin excitedly greeted, perking up and pulling away from Yoongi. “How’s Tae?”

“Still tired, but he’s recovering well,” Hyunjae assured, descending the front steps. “His daughter’s doing well, too. She wouldn’t latch on the first night, but she started eating yesterday, and has been doing fine since. No health concerns or complications...” She trailed off, gaze softening as she looked at Jimin. She opened her arms, and Jimin handed off the gift to Yoongi, then stepped forward to embrace her. “How are you?”

“He’s being a brat, as usual,” Yoongi replied, looking on as Jimin nuzzled up into Hyunjae’s neck. He missed her comforting scent.

“Am not,” Jimin grumbled. “I’m just high maintenance.”

“And you’re feeling okay?” Hyunjae continued.

Jimin nodded, eyes shut as he took even breaths. “I’m just growing a lot faster. No bad signs, at least as far as I can tell.”

Hyunjae glanced at Yoongi for confirmation.

Yoongi shrugged. “He seems fine. All he complains about is back pain, but I figure that’s normal.”

“You guys worry too much,” Jimin sighed. “While we’re still asking how everyone’s faring, how’s Eomma?”

Hyunjae exhaled, slowly rubbing Jimin’s back. She sounded exhausted.

“What?” Jimin urged.

“I think she’s making your baby an entire wardrobe of clothes.”

Jimin snickered and buried his face against Hyunjae’s shoulder. “I don’t think we have room for all that.”

“It’s her only grandchild, so she’s going all-in, apparently.”

“Tell her to rest. She’s got time.”

“I do,” Hyunjae murmured with a hint of mirth. She gave him one last pat. “Well, I hope you enjoy your visit. I’ve gotta head back to the infirmary, alright?”

Jimin relinquished his grip and stepped away. “Take care of yourself,” he said.

Hyunjae ran a hand through Jimin’s hair. “I should be saying the same to you,” she said quietly. “Drink lots of water and get lots of sleep. Oh, and don’t bother knocking when you get up there. I’m not sure either of them will hear it.”

“Okay,” Jimin replied, waving her off with a smile as she departed.

Jimin and Yoongi ascended the steps, then took Hyunjae’s advice and merely stepped inside. The house was very warm, an open window in the living room airing out the stuffiness permeating the space. The entire house smelled overwhelmingly of the pup, tinged with Taehyung and Jungkook’s soothing pheromones.

“Taetae,” Jimin gently called, padding through the living room and glancing around.

“Back here,” came the soft, belated reply.

Jimin followed Taehyung’s scent to the bedroom. He paused in the entryway.

The three of them were curled up on the bed, sheets pushed down to the edge. Jungkook was propped up on an elbow, facing Taehyung, who rested against a stack of pillows. Between them, laying on her back, was a little pup, eyes closed and chest rising in even breaths.

Taehyung rubbed a gentle hand over her belly, scooting in closer to nuzzle against her head when he saw Jimin and Yoongi.

“Hi,” Jimin whispered, eyes wide as he took the scene in.

“Hey,” Jungkook replied in Taehyung’s stead. The omega’s eyes were drooping; his sleepy purring could be heard from across the room. Jungkook noticed Jimin’s hesitation, and he gestured to the pup. “You can take a closer look. I don’t think Tae will bite you.”

“I might,” Taehyung mumbled, voice thick with a purr, tone lacking sincerity.

Jimin walked up to the edge of the bed, resting his palms against the stack of sheets and blankets as he leaned over. The pup’s lips were parted, lashes fluttering in her sleep. Jungkook ran a careful hand through her thin hair, then brushed his thumb along her flushed cheek.

She unmistakably resembled Jungkook, from his nose to his eyes. Jimin resisted glancing back at Yoongi in victory; it’s not like they’d even made a bet.

“She’s gorgeous, Taetae,” Jimin cooed.

“Thank you,” Taehyung breathed, a smirk curling at the corner of his lips. “Made her myself.”

“Have you picked a name?” Yoongi asked, hovering behind Jimin, steadying palm settling on the omega’s back.

“Yeah,” Jungkook replied. “We finally decided on Chunhwa last night.”

“Chunhwa,” Jimin repeated reverently. “How pretty. And she was just barely born in the spring.”

Jungkook’s nose wrinkled with mirth. “We were talking about names off and on yesterday. Taehyung said that every time he looked at her, he was just reminded of that field of poppies in the south. And yes, she’s a spring pup, if only barely. So, it suits her.”

“It does,” Jimin quietly agreed. “Do you think I could hold her?”

Jungkook’s gaze flickered to Taehyung’s, gauging his reaction. Omegas were typically more protective and aggressive than alphas when it came to their newborn babies. If anyone were to have a problem with it, it was Taehyung.

Taehyung sighed and looked down at her again, tracing a fingertip along the curve of her cheek. “Okay,” he murmured.

“It’s just Jimin, Tae,” Jungkook snickered. “He’s not gonna steal her and run off.”

“I know,” Taehyung whined. “I can’t help feeling cautious, though. ‘M somehow more paranoid now.”

“I think it’s good that he adjusts to holding a newborn,” Jungkook said. He shifted his attention to Jimin. “Did you ever hold Haeju when he was really young?”

Jimin shook his head. “I don’t have much experience, although I’m sure my natural instincts will help me when the time comes.”

Jungkook sat up and patted the mattress. “Sit down, I’ll hand her to you.”

“Support her head,” Taehyung reminded, remaining curled into the pillows as he watched Jungkook shift over and reach out to cradle Chunhwa. Jungkook slid one hand under her head, the other under her bum, lifting very carefully under Taehyung’s watchful eye. He tucked Chunhwa against his chest for a moment, pressing a kiss to the tip of her nose.

Jungkook moved down the bed, and Jimin sank into the mattress, turning toward them. He opened his arms, taking Chunhwa slowly, and cradled her in his own warm hold. The pup barely stirred, only exhaling as she settled into him.

Jimin felt a purr rising in his chest as he gazed down at her. Her overwhelming, milky scent was stirring up his omega instincts to nurture and tend to her. He couldn’t imagine how much more protective Taehyung was feeling.

“You’re just perfect, aren’t you,” Jimin murmured, brushing wispy black hair from her forehead. “Oh, I can’t even imagine how much Hoseok’s going to spoil you.”

Jungkook chuckled. “I’m scared to see how many gifts he brings over tomorrow. He gets a little out of hand.”

“But he already loves her so much,” Jimin insisted. “We all do.”

“Speaking of gifts,” Yoongi prompted, holding up the parcel they were meant to deliver. “We’ve got something from Sooyun.”

“The blanket wrapping the gift is from us,” Jimin added.

Taehyung yawned as he finally sat up, blinking through residual bleariness in his eyes. Jungkook placed a hand at the small of his back, helping him shift into an upright position. Taehyung held out his arms expectantly.

Yoongi handed it over, and Taehyung wasted no time in unwrapping. “Aw,” he sighed when he pulled out the first onesie, admiring the soft material. “That’s so nice. And it looks like it’ll fit her.”

Jungkook nodded. “The one she’s in now is really all we’ve got so far. I mean, my parents stocked the nursery with so many clothes, but they’re all too big for her at the moment.”

“She’ll grow into them,” Taehyung mumbled, refolding the onesie and setting it beside him. He took out a little coat next, made of silvery brown rabbit fur.

Jimin glanced up at Yoongi. “Did you give those furs to Eomma?”

“Yes. She made a request for only the softest.”

“I love it,” Taehyung cooed. “She’s gonna be so cozy. And hopefully she’ll fit into some of those dresses in the next couple months. She won’t be outside much, but it does get hot.”

“I suppose if she outgrows any winter clothes before she needs them, you could give them to us. Our pup’s supposed to be born in... what, November?” Jimin said, brow furrowed as he attempted the math.

“Somewhere around there,” Yoongi agreed.

Taehyung grinned. “Then they’ll grow up together and become the absolute best friends,” he gushed, leaning forward to admire Chunhwa as she lifted a little hand to her mouth, sucking on her fingers.

Jimin snickered. “Don’t get carried away. They may despise each other.”

“How could anyone despise a precious face like this?” Taehyung replied, brushing his knuckles lightly against her cheek. “She’s so soft and chubby. The epitome of innocence.”

“I was once the epitome of innocence,” Jimin sighed forlornly. “Then I was tainted.”

Taehyung snorted. “You tainted yourself.”

“Have you guys seen the nursery?” Jungkook spoke up, steering them away from that topic before either omega could get out of hand.

“No,” Jimin replied. “I guess I haven’t been over here all that often.”

“Tae, why don’t you show them?” Jungkook said, a suggestive edge to his tone.

Taehyung gave him a pout.

“C’mon, pup. It’ll get you out of bed,” the alpha coaxed.

“Have you been here in bed since you gave birth?” Jimin inquired.

Taehyung huffed. “Yeah. But in my defense, I’ve been exhausted, and everything hurts.” He gathered up the clothes and moved to the edge of the bed. “Fine, I’ll walk around and do stuff.”

Jungkook shifted closer to Jimin. “I can take her,” he said quietly. “You go follow Tae; make sure he doesn’t trip or fall.”

“I can still walk,” Taehyung stated, sliding off the bed to land on unsteady legs. “I think.” He rested a supporting hand on the mattress for his first few steps, wincing at the strain. “Yeah, I’m fine. I can do this.”

“Proud of you,” Jungkook called after him teasingly.

Taehyung waved him off.

Jimin stood to follow. “You coming with?” He asked Yoongi, pausing.

“I’ll stay,” Yoongi quietly replied, reaching out to tuck Jimin’s hair behind his ear. “I can talk to Jungkook for a few minutes.”

Jimin tilted his head and smiled. “She’s cute, isn’t she?”

“Very,” Yoongi warmly agreed. He brushed a palm along the curve of Jimin’s waist, thumb rubbing against the swell of his belly. “You should go before Taehyung falls over.”

Jimin snickered and pulled away, trailing after Taehyung. The latter’s hand skimmed the wall as he crossed the hall, but he had yet to stumble. Taehyung stepped into the nursery, Jimin close behind, and lowered himself into a rocking chair by the window. He spread out his arms. “Here it is.”

The room was bathed in sunlight, the window on the far wall wide to allow for quite a lot of warm, yellow light. The lower walls were covered in paintings of meadow greenery and fawns. There were cubbies filled with stacks of clothes and lightly colored furs. Jimin walked to the crib and smoothed his hand over the top railing. Nestled inside was a plush rabbit.

Taehyung leaned back into the chair and shut his eyes, rocking slowly. Jimin padded across the large rug in the center of the floor, stopping in front of the window. Outside the glass, there were potted plants on the sill, bright spring flowers swaying with the passing breeze.

“It’s so pretty,” Jimin said, turning on his heel to face Taehyung. “This was all set up when you got here?”

“Most of it,” Taehyung replied, hands folded over his belly. Jimin wondered how it felt, being so suddenly empty. “Some of the furs are from Kook, as you’d expect.”

Jimin nodded and lapsed into quiet.

Taehyung exhaled a heavy sigh, shoulders slumping. “How’s your nursery coming along?”

“It’s coming along,” Jimin said simply. “Yoongi made the crib, and we’ve got a few furs collected. There’s some yellow drapes now.” He hummed. “I’ve still got stuff to add, though.”

“And how’s your baby treating you?”

Jimin rubbed a hand over his belly. “Kindly. No more morning sickness, and they’re still too young to be moving around in there. When did kicking start for you?”

“Somewhere around month six? Maybe when I was just over five months in? I can’t remember exactly, but you’ve got some time. You’re... four months, right?”

“Yup,” Jimin chirped. “It feels like it’s going fast, but also like I have way too much time left.”

“Relatable,” Taehyung groaned. “That last month was the worst. Hopefully you’ll be more mobile. But god, even standing up was a chore.”

“Do you think you’ll do it again soon?” Jimin asked with a hint of mirth.

“Do it again? Yeah, probably,” Taehyung replied. “But soon?” He chuckled to himself. “I’m not so sure my body could handle that, so we’ll take a break. Maybe wait another year or two.”

Jimin paused, swaying on his heels. “Does it feel strange, not being pregnant again?”

There was slight pinch to Taehyung’s brow as he considered it. “A little. I mean, being an omega, we’re wired to want a pup inside of us. So, of course I’d feel empty when she’s not in me anymore. But I couldn’t pay that much attention to the feeling, really. I’ve been distracted by Chunhwa herself. I get to hold her and scent her...” His expression eased, a small smile on his lips. “Nothing’s felt better than just having my baby with me.”

The floor creaked as Jungkook stepped into the room, lightly bouncing Chunhwa in his arms. Jimin heard a whine from the pup, followed by a little sniffle. Taehyung’s eyes fluttered open the moment he heard her tired noises of distress.

Jungkook held her up to his scent gland to soothe her. “I think she’s hungry,” he murmured.

Taehyung held out his arms expectantly, cooing when Jungkook approached and lowered Chunhwa down to the omega’s height. Taehyung shushed her as he cradled her to his chest, moving a hand to slide his loose shirt down.

Jimin cleared his throat. “Yoongi and I will leave you guys alone now,” he said quietly.

Taehyung paused. “Oh, you don’t want to stay longer?”

Jimin shook his head. “I don’t want to bother you.”

“You’re not—”

“Tae,” Jimin said warmly. “You look so tired, sweetie. Just rest more.”

Taehyung couldn’t protest this time. He focused on readjusting Chunhwa in his grasp so she could nurse. He pressed his head back against the chair, rocking them both. “If you’re sure,” he replied, defeated.

“It’s fine. I’m sure we’ll see you again soon,” Jimin assured. He lingered, watching how Taehyung’s large palm carefully cupped the back of Chunhwa’s head, his hooded and fond gaze settled on her.

Jimin exhaled and turned on his heel, walking up to Jungkook, then pausing. He ran a hand through Jungkook’s untidy hair. “Thanks for taking good care of him,” Jimin whispered, watching as the alpha’s eyes widened the slightest. “Sometimes I forget how young you are.”

Jungkook gave a mute nod, leaning into Jimin’s touch.

A few more moments passed; Jimin pulled his hand back and raised his voice. “Congrats, you two. And I’ll see you later, little Chunhwa,” he said, smiling at the new family before he stepped out of the nursery.

He found Yoongi lingering in the hall, silently taking in the exchange. He leveled Jimin with a fond expression, the warmth in his eyes nearly inciting a purr in Jimin’s chest. Yoongi simply held his hand out, and Jimin gladly twined their fingers.

☽○☾

Jimin huffed and stood up higher on his toes, the chair beneath him wobbling the slightest. He was hanging the mobile Yoongi had made, and Jimin had painted, above the crib. He was supposed to wait for Yoongi to come home, but the alpha had been out all afternoon, and Jimin wasn’t notoriously patient.

He finally secured the loop over the hook in the ceiling, then reached out to steady the quivering yellow stars. Jimin leaned forward too far and gasped, shifting his weight to stumble back a step. There was suddenly a firm palm grasping his hip, another steadying hand on his back.

“Oh,” Jimin exhaled, shocked and relieved. He lowered his arms and shifted around as much as he could manage, blinking down at Yoongi’s unamused face. “Hi,” he said meekly.

“We agreed you were going to wait.”

“Oops?” Jimin attempted in reply, looking down at him with innocent eyes and a sheepish smile. “I just wanted to finish the nursery. And look, it’s done!”

Jimin gestured around the room, from the carved wardrobe already half-filled with furs, to the mobile of dangling stars placed right over the carefully crafted crib. “Pretty, right?”

“I’d praise if you if I hadn’t just caught you in the act of stupidity,” Yoongi said bluntly, helping Jimin step off the chair. “What would you do if you fell?”

“I didn’t fall,” Jimin protested.

“You could’ve—”

“I wasn’t going to,” Jimin sighed, spinning out of Yoongi’s grasp. He waltzed into the center of the room. “Look, it’s over. The mobile’s up, and it looks so nice! The room is just so soft and cozy,” he gushed. Jimin tilted his head, waiting for Yoongi to agree.

Yoongi merely squinted at him, a grumble on his tongue.

Jimin puffed out his cheeks.

“Don’t pout at me,” Yoongi grunted.

Jimin’s pout only intensified, gaze shiny and pleading for sympathy.

“Why do you have to pout at me?” Yoongi sighed, composure already cracking.

Jimin held out a hand, urging Yoongi to come to him. “Yoonie,” he whined. He saw the exact moment the alpha’s resolve shattered.

Yoongi’s shoulders slumped, and he stepped forward, allowing Jimin to curl into his chest. Jimin wrapped his arms around Yoongi’s waist and swayed them on their feet, a content rumble rising in his throat.

“I’m too weak for you,” Yoongi mumbled, seemingly more annoyed with himself than Jimin.

“Because you love me,” Jimin cooed. “Now praise me. I did well, didn’t I?”

“Yes, Jimin,” Yoongi sighed. “You did very well.”

“Thank you,” Jimin huffed. He nuzzled into Yoongi’s neck, fingers curling into the back of his shirt. “How was your hunt today?”

“Boring,” Yoongi replied, palm working slow, soothing motions along Jimin’s back. Jimin tried to press into him further, held back by his baby bump. When his belly pushed against Yoongi’s abdomen, the alpha rumbled. “All I wanna do is be with you.”

“You’re cute,” Jimin snickered. “Did you see Wheein today?”

“No, but Hyejin gave me an update. It sounds like she’s getting around on her own just fine. She could be cleared to hunt again by the end of month.”

“It’s taking longer than we expected.”

“I’m honestly glad she’s being forced to wait. I don’t want her to hurt herself any more,” Yoongi muttered. “It is exhausting having to deal with Hyejin alone, though.”

“You’re just a grumpy old man,” Jimin teased.

“And y’know what, I’m fine with that,” Yoongi snorted. “That means people tend to leave me alone.”

Jimin hummed and rubbed his nose along Yoongi’s scent gland. The alpha had been out all day, amongst other wolves and the fragrant summer air. He no longer smelled all that much like Jimin, the omega thought with a frown. He tilted his head and began to lap at Yoongi’s gland, feeling the alpha stiffen against him as Jimin scent-marked him.

Yoongi’s grip tightened around Jimin, yet he didn’t protest the possessive action. “When do you want to get dinner?” Yoongi asked, pushing through the content rumble in his throat.

“Let’s stay here,” Jimin murmured.

Yoongi hummed. “Do you want to help me cook?”

Jimin paused, pulling away an inch. “Okay,” he said slowly. “Don’t put me in charge of the meat, though. I’ll burn it.”

“I know,” Yoongi chuckled. “I’m not putting you in charge of anything in particular. I know how much potential there is for you to chop off a finger.”

“I mean...” Jimin pursed his lips. “Yeah, you’re not wrong.”

Yoongi detached himself from Jimin, tugging him along before the omega had a chance to whine over the loss of physical contact. “I guess we could make bibimbap, and I’ll help you cut the vegetables,” Yoongi mused as he guided them down the hall.

“Isn’t that most of the work?”

“Yeah,” Yoongi said. “But I’m not letting you do it alone.”

“I can fry the eggs—”

“Nope,” Yoongi stated, shaking his head. “You don’t need to be anywhere near the stove.”

“I’ve cooked eggs before, Yoon.”

“And fire is fatal, Jimin.”

Jimin puffed out his cheeks, but he didn’t argue. He settled against the countertop, watching idly as Yoongi collected all the ingredients they’d need. He pulled out a cutting board and a glimmering knife. Jimin’s eyes lit up, and he reached out for it.

Yoongi pulled the knife out of his reach. Jimin whined. “I know how to handle a knife! I carry daggers with me all the time.”

“Not the same thing,” Yoongi argued. “This one’s bigger, and probably sharper. And you don’t just stab stuff with it.”

“I guess,” Jimin grumbled. He hovered over Yoongi as the alpha laid out the vegetables on the cutting board. He held the knife’s hilt firmly, showing off the correct position for Jimin.

“Smooth motions, away from your fingers,” Yoongi instructed, slowly demonstrating on a carrot. He cut into it again, then glanced at Jimin pointedly. “You got that?”

“Yes,” Jimin said. He wiggled his way under Yoongi’s arm, standing in front of him, fingers curling around Yoongi’s over the hilt. “Now let me try.”

Yoongi readjusted his grip, so Jimin was directly grasping the hilt. “Alright,” he quelled, guiding Jimin through the motion. “Make sure to add pressure. You don’t need to saw at it; just a clean, simple cut.”

Jimin’s brows pinched as he concentrated on the task. “When do we get to go faster?”

Yoongi snorted. “Not anytime soon.”

Jimin sighed and continued cutting. His slices of carrots were much less even than Yoongi’s had been, but as they moved on to other vegetables, he found his movements to be smoother and more consistent.

Yoongi eventually released Jimin, hand moving down to his hip instead. He merely observed, making sure Jimin was still taking his time and keeping the blade away from his fingers. “Good job,” he stated.

Jimin smirked and preened.

When Jimin was close to finishing up, Yoongi finally stepped away. “I’ll let you season them on your own, if you think you can handle that.”

“Don’t tease.”

“Who said I was teasing?” Yoongi replied, returning with soy, sesame seeds, and herbs Jimin didn’t bother to place.

“I can manage it, Yoon,” Jimin said with a roll of his eyes.

“Good. I’ll start cooking the venison, then.” He set the seasoning down and turned toward the stove.

Jimin hummed in affirmation. He scooped his chopped vegetables into a neat pile, then sifted through the bottles Yoongi had provided. He started with the soy, halted, and squinted at the herbs. He could probably make a decent estimate on how much should be distributed. “How much salt should I put on?”

“You shouldn’t be using salt. The soy’s salty enough.”

“What’s this?” Jimin questioned, turning around with a furrow to his brow. He held up the small bottle filled with off-white granules.

Yoongi narrowed his eyes. “Onion powder?”

“You don’t even know?” Jimin asked with bemusement.

Yoongi shrugged. “Sprinkle a little on. It couldn’t hurt.”

“Alright,” Jimin drawled. He continued on, the meat beginning to sizzle behind him. He heard Yoongi humming absently, felt his palm brush over Jimin’s waist as he passed by every so often. Jimin was adding a liberal amount of sesame seeds when Yoongi paused beside him.

Jimin wasn’t too distracted by Yoongi nosing along his jaw, pressing gentle kisses to his skin. Yoongi’s casual touches were the most natural thing in the world to Jimin by now. He hadn’t known how easy it was to grow accustomed to another’s perpetual presence, yet it had really happened so simply, so quietly.

Then Yoongi squeezed his ass. Okay, that caught Jimin’s attention.

“Are you using this ‘cooking together’ thing as an excuse to feel me up?” Jimin muttered, wiping his hands off on a nearby towel.

“Why do you always think I have ulterior motives?”

“How can you say that with a straight face while you are literally still groping my ass?” Jimin retorted, swiveling around to arch a brow at his mate.

Yoongi shrugged and pulled his hand away, returning to the stove.

“I didn’t say you had to stop,” Jimin snickered. “God.”

“I can’t help it when you’re just standing right there,” Yoongi casually replied.

“Right within groping reach?”

“Exactly.”

Jimin snorted and turned around, back propped against the counter. “You can cook the veggies now.”

“Alright, once this is done,” Yoongi said, attention fixed on the stove.

Jimin watched the strain of Yoongi’s back, how his shirt stretched across his broad shoulders. Beneath the light material of his shirt, Jimin knew there were indents from the omega’s nails. He wasn’t all that coherent when they had sex, head a muddle of hormones, so he quite enjoyed digging his nails into Yoongi’s back, holding onto him as the omega gasped and struggled to remain still.

Gaze hooded, mind caught in memories, Jimin was struck with a question. “Hey, Yoon?”

“Hm?”

“Wasn’t your rut supposed to be like, a month ago?” He asked quietly. He hadn’t remembered at the time, too consumed by Taehyung, worries about the pack, and his own pregnancy.

“Oh, yeah,” Yoongi said slowly. “On my usual cycle, yeah, I would’ve had it last month.”

“Why didn’t you?”

Yoongi set the spatula down and removed the meat from the flame. He shifted around to face Jimin. “Because of the pup. It’s like how you don’t have heats when you’re pregnant; our cycles did what they were meant to do, so now they’re kinda on hold.”

Jimin pursed his lips, a little less confused.

“It’ll start up again once the pup’s born, although we can’t know when for sure.”

“So, even though I’m the one carrying the pup, your cycle still stops?” Jimin asked.

“I think it’s a hormonal thing,” Yoongi replied, brows pinched. “I guess, since my mate smells pregnant, the reproductive part of my brain just interprets that as a job well done.”

Jimin huffed out a dry laugh. “Huh. Alright.”

“What, were you looking forward to my rut?” Yoongi joked.

“God, no,” Jimin scoffed. He heard his own tone just as Yoongi arched a questioning brow. “I mean, not in this state. I’ve heard that it’s kinda exhausting for an omega, and... and definitely not good for a pregnant one.”

Yoongi nodded, lips quirked down in understanding. “I’m glad you don’t have to bear it. I get sorta...” He cleared his throat. “Rough, to put it simply. I wouldn’t want to hurt you.”

“Will you let me help you through it when the pup’s born?” Jimin nudged. Even if he was hesitant to experience it, he was reminded of how often Yoongi had cared for him through his heats. Jimin wanted to return the favor.

“If you want to,” Yoongi said carefully. “I know how to handle it on my own.”

“But I want to help,” Jimin insisted. “And I’m not that fragile.”

Yoongi sighed in endearment, then crossed the space to kiss Jimin’s forehead. Jimin clutched the front of Yoongi’s shirt, smirking.

“Plus, I like your dick.”

“Oh my god,” Yoongi groaned, backing away as Jimin cackled. “Just hand me the rest of the food so I can cook it.”

Jimin watched Yoongi do rest of the work, as he was quite explicitly banned from the stove. He flitted around the kitchen, washing some dishes, putting away some utensils, mostly staring at Yoongi and playing with his hair.

When their dinner was just about done, Yoongi shooed Jimin away, and the omega rushed off to sit at the countertop expectantly. He tapped the smooth surface until Yoongi slid a bowl in front of him.

“It’s hot, Jimin,” Yoongi reminded as Jimin lifted up a steaming slice of venison to his mouth.

Jimin made a show of blowing on it before wrapping his lips around the meat. As he chewed, he waited for Yoongi to take a bite, hopeful that he hadn’t screwed up the seasoning too badly.

“Well?” Jimin prompted, plucking up another mouthful with his chopsticks.

“It’s good,” Yoongi said, snickering as Jimin lit up. “You did well, pup.”

Jimin nodded, beaming with satisfaction.

☽○☾

“D’you think ghosts are real?” Dasung asked, popping another rice cracker into her mouth. She was seated on the floor, leaned onto the low table between her and the couch. Jimin was curled into a corner of the sofa, blanket over his bare legs, hand absently smoothing over his belly.

“I don’t know,” Jimin mused. “Most wolves believe that the moon is a guardian spirit, and that wolves who have passed go to some afterlife. I don’t think it would be too nonsensical to believe that some spirits just... stick around. Especially if they’ve got someone who’s still alive to look after. Honestly, if I died early, I’d probably hang back to haunt Yoongi and my brother.”

“Why Jihyun?” Dasung snorted.

“I wanna make sure he’s not being too stupid,” Jimin shrugged. “And I wanna knock shit over and watch him freak out. He hates ghosts, y’know.”

“Really?” Dasung drawled, quite amused. “Any particular reason?”

“He says he used to see white figures tapping at our bedroom window when we were young,” Jimin stated. “It really scared him. I never saw or heard anything, though. The only thing waking me up was him crawling into my bed.”

“I guess if you think you’ve seen something, you’re prone to believe it’s real. Otherwise, you’re just admitting to being crazy,” Dasung snorted.

“Well, it doesn’t have to be ghosts,” Jimin reasoned. “It could have been branches from the bushes beneath our window. And the white figures could’ve been.... I don’t know, moonlight? I mean, he was a pup. Pups see things that aren’t there.”

“Or maybe pups see things that the rest of us can’t,” Dasung countered, arching a brow and shoving another cracker into her mouth.

“Fair point,” Jimin hummed. “Then what about you, do you believe in ghosts?”

“Yeah, I guess. I don’t care either way, but it’s a cool thought that you could hang back and try to protect the people you left behind. Or try to comfort them, although that may be misunderstood if the wolf is scared of you.”

Jimin hummed and leaned forward. He held out a palm, and Dasung handed him a cracker. Jimin popped it into his mouth and chewed, gaze wandering to the open window behind him. The early summer heat was making their house extra stuffy; the outside breeze made it more bearable. The red drapes fluttered, a quiet flapping breaking the near silence of the space.

“What brought that topic up?” Jimin asked.

“Ah, there was a group of omegas hanging out in the bath last night that were telling ghost stories,” Dasung explained. “I didn’t join in, but it made me curious.”

Jimin nodded. “It is interesting. I actually like to think that Yoongi’s parents are still here, in some sense. If they had the choice to keep watching over him, I know they would do it, especially since it all ended so abruptly.”

Dasung bit her cheek, fingertips skimming over the smooth wood. “What actually happened to them? Was it really humans?”

“We think so,” Jimin murmured. “The wound, the scent... it all lines up.”

“Is that why he gets so stressed over this human stuff?”

“I’m sure that adds to it,” Jimin slowly replied. “But Yoongi’s a leader, and he takes blame for anything that goes wrong in his realm. If it weren’t humans that were killing and injuring our wolves, Yoongi would still take it personally. That’s just how he is.”

“Does that stress you out, too?”

Jimin’s gaze flickered to his lap. He picked at a loose thread in the blanket and hummed. “Yeah, a little. A mate’s bond lets you feel more than you’d expect. I feel his guilt, his grief. And I don’t know how to help him. The worst part is the helplessness.”

“That kinda makes me scared to ever mate,” Dasung confessed. “I mean, I’m sure it’s nice to have that intimate partner. But what if they die, or things just don’t work out? Then you’ve got all that pain hanging between you, and there’s no way to get rid of it.”

“It’s a big decision,” Jimin agreed. “I think, if you find the right person, the risk is worth it. But you really have to know what you’re getting into, and you really have to consider what your future’s gonna look like with that person. There aren’t perfect couples in the world, but some are much more compatible than others.”

Dasung nodded mutely. She sucked in a breath, visibly hesitating. “I’ve been... seeing Jihyun a lot. We’ve kinda just been running into each other.”

Jimin blinked, taken aback. He looked up. “Okay?” He cautiously ventured. “Why’s this relevant?”

Dasung worried her bottom lip, a slight flush to her cheeks. Was Dasung embarrassed? Jimin couldn’t believe his eyes. The tough little runt was actually blushing.

“I-it’s not really relevant,” she stated, avoiding Jimin’s eyes. “He just keeps sitting next to me in the dining hall, and stopping me to talk whenever he sees me. I don’t know what to do. I’ve never been given this much attention.”

“No one’s ever tried to court you?” Jimin asked, brows pinched.

“Wha—No!” Dasung spluttered. “As if I have time to entertain those p-pursuits,” she said, meeker now. “Wait, do you think Jihyun wants to court me?”

“I sure hope not,” Jimin stated, brows drawn. “He’s too young for that.”

“I know!” Dasung whined, hunching forward. “He’s so young. He’s basically still a pup, hopped up on new alpha hormones.”

Jimin heaved a sigh. “He’s decided to start a carpenter apprenticeship, so he won’t be short on courting gifts.”

“God,” Dasung groaned.

“Would you accept one?”

“Would I...” Dasung trailed off, processing the notion. She flushed red up to the tips of her ears. “I don’t know,” she confessed. “I should say no, but then I think about how rejection would look on his stupid face, and the thought kinda hurts me, too.”

Jimin’s expression softened, hand stilling over the swell of his belly. “Do you like him?”

“It’s all so confusing,” Dasung sighed. “But I don’t—don’t dislike him?”

Jimin snorted, reminded all too well of the chaotic days of his early youth. “It really is confusing,” Jimin agreed. “Your hormones are a mess, it feels like your heart’s gonna flutter right out of your damn chest.” Jimin exhaled. “It’s scary and perplexing for everyone. Y’know, I didn’t realize Yoongi was trying to court me when he gave me the first gift.”

Dasung lifted her head up, surprised. “What? How?”

Jimin chuckled. “I was oblivious and thick-headed. Taehyung sorta had to make it clear to me. It’s especially weird when it’s a wolf you grew up with. Yoongi was the kid I wrestled around with, who I challenged over every little thing. I used to wear his hand-me-down clothes and sleep over at his house. Courting was... an entirely new world.”

“But it still worked, right? That childhood friend feeling went away?” Dasung asked, leaning forward.

“Kind of,” Jimin mused. “I mean, yeah, my attraction to him has shifted over time. Some pairs only work together platonically, and that’s alright. But I’m lucky that our attraction developed into something romantic and—” Jimin licked his lips, slightly embarrassed, “Sexual. We’re still great friends, but there’s more depth to it. And more layers, I guess.”

Dasung stared down at her hands, fiddling with her own fingers as she listened intently. “So, that shift doesn’t happen for everybody?”

Jimin shook his head. “That’s why courting is good, though. It allows you time to feel it all out before anything becomes permanent. And if you’re not meant to be more than friends, well, good on you for figuring it out and working through it.”

“Alright,” Dasung said quietly. “Oh, another question, totally unrelated,” she prompted.

“What?” Jimin asked with a tone of bemusement.

“How much does it hurt to take a knot?”

Jimin nearly choked on his own saliva. “Excuse me?” He coughed, eyes wide and incredulous.

Dasung seemed much less abashed about this topic. “I’m only curious!” She defended. “Considering I have no experience.”

Jimin tried to reel himself in, coughing into his elbow until his breathing evened out. “Why don’t you ask your parents about this kinda stuff?”

Dasung wrinkled her nose. “Ew, no. They’re prudes. They just want me to get mated and figure it all out after that.”

Jimin sighed and slumped back into the sofa. “You haven’t heard other omegas gossiping enough about it?”

“There’s never much detail,” Dasung shrugged. “I wanna know the facts, not the gossip.”

“Wonderful,” Jimin groaned. He bit his cheek and awkwardly averted his gaze. “Fine, if you really need to know, I can answer your questions. But don’t go asking people that so randomly! Bedroom talk is... it’s awkward, alright? Especially when you’re so much younger than me.” Jimin paused. “Don’t go searching out alphas to experiment on after this.”

“I know, Appa,” Dasung teased, a quirk to her lips. “Most alphas disgust me, anyway.”

“Good,” Jimin huffed. “Well, uh, I won’t lie—it can hurt quite a lot. Taehyung told me it’s best to do it during your heat for the first time. You’re kinda out of it in heat, so even though you’re, um, being stretched, you don’t feel it as much? At least, you’re not quite processing it as pain.”

Dasung squinted. “How’s that work?”

“Hormones, I guess. Y’know how it is. All you can think about is breeding, so you can kinda ignore the worst of it. And then nothing’s as bad as the first time. I’m at a point where I can take a knot outside of heat.”

“Am I supposed to be impressed by that?” Dasung said bluntly.

Jimin flushed pink. “N-no.”

“So, was your first time during your heat?”

Jimin nodded and snuggled into the blanket, shielding himself from view.

“And it was like Taehyung said?”

“Mostly,” Jimin replied, recalling Yoongi’s palpable nerves, his hesitance to accidentally hurt Jimin. Meanwhile, Jimin had been swept up in his heat, whining and begging no matter the consequences. “I could still feel the knot, its stretch, and yeah... it hurt. Apparently, I just stopped breathing. But all my head was telling me was that I needed it inside of me, so I just kept pushing back. Yoongi had to force me to stop, ordered me to breathe.”

Dasung awkwardly coughed into her fist. “Explicit, yet informative.”

“You’re the one who asked!” Jimin squeaked, glaring down at her and pulling the blanket up past his nose.

Dasung snickered at his embarrassment. “I know, you’re right,” she quelled.

Jimin gasped when the front door suddenly opened. He curled into himself further, even more flustered over the notion that Yoongi could have walked in on that conversation. The alpha was oblivious as he entered, though, stopping in the entryway to observe the small scene in the living room.

“Hello, Dasung,” he said curtly.

“Yoongi,” she greeted with a nod.

Yoongi walked to the back of the couch and bent over, kissing the top of Jimin’s head. “Hi, pup,” he said, tone taking on a new warmth. “Why are you so red?”

Jimin whined and sunk lower in his seat.

“I made him answer some embarrassing questions,” Dasung answered in Jimin’s stead.

“Don’t do that. He’s gonna get overwhelmed and melt,” Yoongi snickered.

“Will not,” Jimin retorted, pulling the blanket back just so Yoongi could see his pout. Yoongi quickly kissed the pout right off his lips. Jimin spluttered and gawked when Yoongi pulled away, offended that Yoongi had quieted him so easily.

The alpha merely wandered to the kitchen, gaze catching on a vase of red flowers on the countertop. “Are these from you?” He asked Dasung, running his fingertips over the soft petals.

“Yup. Well, me and Hoseok,” she replied. “We went out and collected them this morning. The poppies are in full bloom, and Hoseok wanted to deliver some to Taehyung. I brought the rest here for Jimin. The house could use a pop of color.”

“Don’t insult my décor,” Jimin huffed.

“The flowers do accentuate the space, though, you gotta admit.”

“Yeah,” Jimin sighed in defeat. “They really do.”

“Why’s there blood on some of these petals?” Yoongi quietly questioned, brows drawn.

Dasung blinked, taken aback. “Oh, I pricked my thumb on a thorny bush on our walk back. I must’ve touched them while I was still bleeding.”

Yoongi laid the tainted poppies out on his palm, observing the stark crimson against the otherwise vibrant petals.

Jimin couldn’t see them all that well from the distance, but he did note the distant look in Yoongi’s eyes. “Yoonie,” he softly called, garnering his attention. “Why don’t we go eat? Dasung’s been snacking for the past hour.”

Yoongi blinked away his daze and lowered his hand. “Yeah,” he agreed, shifting to offer Jimin a smile. There it was, that somber feeling reverberating through their bond. Jimin wished there was some way to ease it, to calm his mate’s worries, whatever they may be. For now, Jimin could only sit in their silence.

“The sun’s setting, so it’s getting a bit cold out there. Grab a jacket, and we can go.”

Chapter Text

Jimin spent the morning cleaning. He hadn’t much else to do, so for the first couple hours of his day, he dusted the furniture, wiped down the counters, and reorganized some dressers and cupboards. Still bored out of his mind, he then gathered up a large blanket and stepped out into the mild sunlight.

Puffy white clouds drifted overhead, blocking the harshest sunrays as morning shifted toward afternoon. The temperature was more comfortable than it had been in days, and Jimin was content to spread out his blanket in the green clearing not far from the edge of the woods, within view of the hunters’ shed and the area where said hunters came and departed.

Jimin laid out on his back with a huff, settling his hands over his belly as his gaze drifted toward the clouds. It didn’t make for much entertainment, but at least the sun was warm on his bare arms and legs. If Taehyung wasn’t constantly occupied with his infant, Jimin would have dragged him outside to waste away the afternoon with him.

Jimin was beginning to regret having mostly hunters as friends. When one was gone, the others surely were as well.

Jimin raised an arm and traced the edges of the clouds, making mental shapes as they wavered, split, and morphed. What once looked like a rabbit soon faded into a duck. A much larger shape solidified as a wolf, mismatched ears perked up and shoulders hunched. Its jaws split, moving apart until the clumps merged with the rest. Within another minute, the shape had thinned, and the legs had grown longer. A doe, Jimin thought, eyes drooping.

He couldn’t have been unconscious for too long. He was merely closing his eyes for a moment, resting them against the brightness of the blue sky. Then the fragrant breeze was rustling through his hair, cooling his cheeks and filling the air with the scent of pollen and pine. Jimin took a breath and exhaled slowly, chest heaving. His thoughts ebbed to a muted background in his skull.

Just as quickly, Jimin was urged back into the waking world, a distant chattering drifting across from the forest. There were new scents, too—a mingle of wolves he recognized, tainted by the metallic hint of blood.

Jimin blinked through the haze in his vision, wrinkling his nose at the cottony feeling in his mouth. Naps always left him with an odd head-feeling, not to mention stiff limbs. Jimin carefully pushed himself up into a sitting position, squinting out toward the shed.

Hoseok and Hyejin were already dressed and talking. There were a few more wolves merely lounging around under the sun. Jimin’s lips curled into a smile when he was spotted by a big black ball of fluff. Yoongi’s head was turned toward Jimin, ears perked in surprise.

He walked toward Jimin, the latter tilting his head. “Nice day, huh?”

Yoongi grunted and pressed in close, leaving Jimin little personal space as he nosed along the omega’s cheek.

Jimin giggled and spread his hands over Yoongi’s chest, attempting to push the heavy wolf away as he was scented. “Stop,” Jimin wheezed, squealing and curling into himself when he felt Yoongi’s wet nose against his neck.

Yoongi gently head-butted him in response, and Jimin let himself fall backwards to escape the assault. “Just—” Jimin stuttered, still laughing as Yoongi rubbed his cheek against Jimin’s hair, “Just lay down, dork.”

Yoongi collapsed down beside him, spreading out and resting his head next to Jimin’s. Jimin turned onto his side and threaded his fingers through Yoongi’s fur, watching him fondly as Yoongi shut his eyes. “It’s gonna get too hot for you soon, with all this dark fur,” he mumbled. Jimin scratched behind Yoongi’s ear, and the alpha rumbled in contentment.

Jimin loved petting Yoongi. His fur was very smooth, gliding between his fingers and glimmering under the light. Jimin would be happy to just wrap himself around the wolf and cuddle. Yoongi outside of his wolf form was a nice cuddler too, though. Jimin enjoyed curling into his chest and absently listening to the alpha read, Yoongi’s hand stroking along his waist or carding through his hair.

“I did a lot of cleaning today,” Jimin said. He brushed the thick fur on Yoongi’s neck back, forcing it to stand up. He looked impossibly fluffier. “I think I’m running out of things to do. I mean, I could hang out with Taehyung, but I don’t wanna bother him when he’s got his hands full.”

Yoongi hummed, although it sounded close to a growl, in acknowledgement.

“I could also work at the care facility. Those kids get exhausting, though,” Jimin sighed. “Maybe I could go pester Jihyun at his apprenticeship. Oh, maybe I’ll train to be a carpenter, too, just so I can be better than him at his own craft.”

Yoongi snorted.

“Funny, huh?” Jimin mused. “I won’t do that.” He pursed his lips, gaze hooded as he watched Yoongi flick one ear. “I wanna go to the river when it gets hotter.”

Yoongi stiffened, and Jimin shushed him, petting him more firmly to soothe him.

“I’ll take someone with me. By the moon, you fret over everything,” he grumbled.

Yoongi suddenly lifted his head, scenting Hoseok before Jimin could. Yoongi stood and turned around, sitting slightly in front of Jimin, leaning against him. Jimin ran a hand along his back, nodding to Hoseok.

“How was the hunt?” He called as the alpha drew near.

Hoseok shrugged. “Not bad. A lot of bird chatter today, so we couldn’t get any auditory clues. God, and the pollen’s messing up my smell, too.”

“You really do need me,” Jimin sang with a cheeky smile. “Is Dasung any good at tracking?”

“I mean, she’s not bad,” Hoseok considered. “Her nose could get sharper with more training.”

“Yeah, it takes time.”

Hoseok reached out to pet Yoongi, and the former laid his ears back and growled. Hoseok laughed it off, retracting his hand. “So mean, Yoongi.”

“He doesn’t like people touching him,” Jimin teased. He patted Yoongi’s head.

“You’re touching him.”

“It’s different,” Jimin insisted. “He’s a good boy when I pet him. Huh, Yoonie?” Jimin continued, baby-talking him.

Yoongi rested all his weight on Jimin rather abruptly, Jimin almost toppling over with a sharp exhale. Jimin quickly shoved him off. “Are you trying to crush me?” He dramatically wailed. “I was only complimenting you. Hoseokie’s right; you’re mean.”

Jimin crossed his arms and turned his cheek. He scrunched up his nose when Yoongi rubbed his cheek against Jimin’s, pressing up against him incessantly. Jimin refused to look at him, resorting to a stubborn pout.

Yoongi set a paw on Jimin’s thigh.

“‘M not paying you any attention.”

Yoongi nuzzled against Jimin’s hair.

“Nope.”

Yoongi licked the side of his face.

Jimin’s eyes widened, and he shuddered. “No licking!” He exclaimed, turning toward Yoongi, scandalized.

Yoongi released a few short puffs of breath. He was laughing. He had the gall to laugh. Jimin stared at him, affronted. Then he smacked Yoongi’s chest.

Oh, now Hoseok was laughing.

“Don’t encourage him!” Jimin wailed, slumping forward until he rested against Yoongi’s shoulder.

Hoseok shook his head and muffled a chuckle. “Let’s just go get lunch, yeah? I think everyone else is already headed over.”

“Sure, as soon as Yoongi goes and gets changed,” Jimin grumbled. When Yoongi failed to budge, Jimin reached up to scratch behind his ears again. “I’m getting hungry.”

Yoongi pulled away, finally willing to move over Jimin’s veiled whining. He stood and began his walk off.

“Hurry, or I’ll steal Jimin and run,” Hoseok called after him.

Yoongi flicked his tail in annoyance, yet didn’t acknowledge the comment any further.

Jimin snickered to himself over his mate, then scooted off the blanket to fold it. His knees sank into the lush grass, cool beneath his heated skin. He paused in his minstrations, finding a ladybug hanging onto one of the loose threads of his blanket. Jimin reached out a finger, waiting patiently until it crawled on. He gently set it in the grass and resumed his folding.

“Did you hear we’ve got patrols out in the evenings now?”

Jimin tucked the blanket under his arm and stood on unsteady legs. He brushed out his skirt, brow furrowed. “How long’s that been going on?”

“A week, I think,” Hoseok murmured. “Mostly alphas, mostly untrained.”

Jimin sighed. “Alpha instinct isn’t enough to protect you from a threat.”

“Apparently the thought is that they’ll scent danger and come back to tell the pack, rather than try to fight anything themselves. They’re not venturing too far out, anyway. Not with bears and their cubs hanging around.”

“Still rubs me the wrong way,” Jimin muttered. “How old?”

“Alpha dorm age.”

“God, they’re just kids,” Jimin said. “And whose idea was it?”

“Pack elders’, I think,” Hoseok replied. “Namjoon said he wasn’t all for it, but... it’s better than doing nothing.”

“I wouldn’t let my kids go out there so close to nightfall,” Jimin grumbled.

“Yeah, I get it,” Hoseok said, exhaling. “I’m sure it’s just a temporary part of the solution.”

Yoongi whistled, drawing their attention. The alpha waved Jimin over, on the path up to the dining hall. Jimin took a deep breath and hurried after him.

Jimin was surprised to see Jungkook and Taehyung walking into the dining hall, Chunhwa curled into the latter’s chest. There were a few coos as the couple passed, as this was their daughter’s first public appearance at only a week old.

Jimin perked up and abandoned his lunch, beaming smile settling on the sleeping pup. “Hi,” he gently greeted, leaning into the table as Taehyung slowly settled into the seat across from him. “What brings you all the way out here?”

“I missed the sunshine,” Taehyung sighed, readjusting his arm supporting Chunhwa, helping her nuzzle further into his neck. “And this one barely slept last night, so I knew she’d be tired and calm today.”

“Have you been getting any sleep?” Jimin asked, briefly distracted as Jungkook bent down to kiss Taehyung’s head before departing to get them food.

“A bit here and there,” Taehyung mused. “I’ve been napping as much as she does during the day. Kook’s been a lot of help, keeping the house somewhat clean, making sure everyone eats.”

“Oh, good. I was gonna kick his ass if he’d just been lazing around,” Jimin said, scrunching his nose up in amusement.

“Good luck managing that.”

Jimin hummed. “I guess I should clarify—I’d send Yoongi to kick his ass,” he replied, patting his mate’s thigh.

Taehyung rolled his eyes and huffed out a weak laugh. He leaned back, trying to peer down at his daughter as she clutched onto his shirt tighter. Her lips parted in a little yawn, pink tongue peeking out. She snuggled back into him.

“Does your scent soothe her?” Jimin quietly asked.

“Mm. She cries a lot, but she cries even more when she can’t scent me. I was scared she’d only be attached to me, but she does the same to Kook—as soon as he’s got her, she calms down a little.”

“Maybe she wants constant attention,” Jimin mumbled.

“Maybe,” Taehyung said with bemusement. “She may already be too spoiled, then. She barely sleeps in the crib; she likes the comfort of warm bodies too much.”

“Don’t all pups?”

“S’pose so,” Taehyung breathed. “I’ve really only been with pups who are at least half a year old. Newborns are so needy.”

“I don’t think I’d mind cuddling all day,” Jimin said with a pout.

“You’d get bored,” Yoongi said, shaking his head. “You hate feeling unproductive.”

“It’s not unproductive when you’ve got a baby sleeping on your chest,” Jimin protested.

“Give it a week. You’ll be antsy to do something.”

“What, you won’t take our baby off my hands for a bit so I can go be productive?” Jimin teased, resting his chin on his palm and leaning into Yoongi’s space. “That’s so inconsiderate, Yoonie.”

Yoongi snorted. “You know I’d be happy to lay around and do nothing in your stead. Like you’ve said, though, there’s only so much I can offer,” Yoongi drawled, gesturing to Jimin’s chest.

Jimin folded his arms over himself and pulled away. He dramatically gasped. “Don’t point at my breasts in public. How obscene.”

Yoongi swiftly pinched Jimin’s side, and Jimin released a sharp laugh.

“You test me,” Yoongi grumbled, holding back a smirk.

“You say that all the time,” Jimin whined, squinting at his mate and puffing out his cheeks rather childishly.

“The only thing obscene about this is your flirting,” Taehyung sighed. “I can’t wait until you have a baby to deal with, then you won’t have the energy to flirt in front of me anymore.”

“Oh, we’ll still do it,” Jimin insisted.

“Just to annoy you,” Yoongi added.

Taehyung grumbled to himself and patted Chunhwa’s bum, rocking slightly as he felt her stir. Jungkook returned and slid into the seat beside him, holding out his arms to allow Taehyung relief. Taehyung gratefully handed Chunhwa over and tugged his plate in front of himself, evidently hungry as he quickly dug in.

“Don’t let her wake up, she’ll get fussy,” Taehyung said around a mouthful of rice.

“She’ll get fushy?” Jungkook mocked with a cheeky smile.

“You know what I meant,” Taehyung retorted, words still muffled by the food in his mouth.

“I know, I know,” Jungkook quelled, resting Chunhwa over his heart and tucking her nose against his scent gland.

“I know, I know,” Taehyung repeated in a mutter.

“Now you’re mocking me,” Jungkook whined. “What was wrong with what I said?”

“You sound like an exhausted parent, that’s all.”

“I am.”

“And whose fault is it?”

Taehyung tilted his head up to meet Jungkook’s eyes, and the latter blinked. Jimin stilled, assuming this was the beginning of a real spat. Then the corner of Taehyung’s mouth curled up, and Jungkook snorted.

“Shut up,” the alpha sighed, tone warm as he matched Taehyung’s growing grin. “You’re such a brat. You love this kid.”

“Of course I do,” Taehyung agreed, shoveling in another mouthful.

“And you love me.”

“Questionable.”

“You love me,” Jungkook persisted, voice taking on a melodic tone. “Admit it.”

Taehyung smiled at him and chewed, a sharp edge to the gleam in his eye. “Fine, I do love you. And you love me, so you’re going to do me a favor and rock your daughter before she wakes up and cries for the next two hours.”

Jungkook’s gaze widened when he realized Chunhwa was stirring in his grasp. He quickly shushed her and began to gently bounce her. “Fair,” he off-handedly replied, swaying in his seat, attention focused solely on the pup clinging to him.

Chunhwa took a deep breath and wiggled her nose. Then she sighed, resting back into Jungkook’s arms, probably lulled to sleep again by his pheromones.

Taehyung took a pause from his eating to make a short glance around. “Where’s Hoseokie?”

“On a date with Taeseob,” Jimin chirped.

“Please tell me they’re officially courting.”

“I think it’s been official for a month,” Jungkook said.

“God, that still took him way too long.”

“True,” Jimin hummed. “I’m sure it’s nice having a patient alpha, though. If he rushes in, you could get overwhelmed, or think he’s got some kind of ulterior motives.”

Taehyung snorted. “Yoongi waited too long, and he still had ulterior motives.”

Jimin turned to Yoongi and arched a brow.

Yoongi crossed his arms, expression affronted. “What? I wanted to mate you, wanted to have kids with you. We all knew that.”

“So domestic,” Taehyung sighed.

“Look who’s talking.”

“Well, you got what you want.”

“You say that like it’s a bad thing?”

“Honestly,” Jimin groaned. “Do you two always have to fight?”

“I’m not implying it’s entirely bad,” Taehyung continued. “It’s just... suspicious.”

“What?” Yoongi snorted.

Jungkook loudly shushed them. Taehyung startled and stared at his mate. Jungkook shrugged. “Your bickering could wake her.”

Jimin opened his mouth to thank him for shutting them up. His throat constricted when he scented newcomers, though, the familiar scent leaving a sour taste on his tongue. Jimin pursed his lips and shifted around in time to spot Taehyung’s parents just entering the dining hall.

The Kims paid no attention to the dining and chattering wolves scattered around. They seemed to be set on a course to the back, where the kitchen was located. Seokjin must be on shift; the Kims would never stop by to mingle with the pack.

Then Taehyung’s father paused, sharp eyes widening, stiff and straight posture easing. He relinquished his hold on his mate’s arm, turning toward the table, seemingly in awe. Taehyung noticed their presence as soon as Kyungmi caught on to her omega’s distraction.

“Hojun,” she stated, a warning in her voice. “Come along. There’s nothing to see here.” Kyugmi barely spared Chunhwa a glance; she lifted her chin and refocused her gaze on her mate.

Taehyung flinched at the insinuation. Jimin understood, astounded as well that Kyungmi would imply her granddaughter was... nothing. If Jimin wasn’t in the right mind, he might just stand and snap at her.

Hojun stepped forward, a hint of distress to his scent—it was parental.

“Hojun,” Kyungmi hissed. She looked prepared to wrench him away.

She didn’t get the chance to, however. One more inch closer, and Jungkook snarled at Hojun. The omega seemed to startle back to reality, pulling away and returning to a safe proximity of his mate.

Taehyung was breathing in short puffs of air, trying to maintain some sense of calm as he looked between his parents. “It’s okay,” he whispered. Although he was looking at Hojun, Jimin had the feeling he was allowing Jungkook permission rather than anyone else. Jimin’s suspicion was confirmed when Taehyung paused, licked his lips, and said, “He can look at her. He can come near her. But he can’t touch her.”

Hojun’s shoulders were hunched. Despite his straight posture, Hojun seemed to always curl into himself. He made himself small around his overbearing mate, the unfamiliar pack, and anyone, really. Despite how pretty Hojun objectively was, his timid demeanor dimmed his outward appearance. He was meek and soft-spoken; Jimin often wondered how much of his life was truly controlled by him.

Hojun blinked owlishly and clasped his hands before himself, shocked yet put-together. It took him another moment to find his words, and perhaps his courage, considering the tense alpha behind him.

“Is she healthy?”

Taehyung nodded. There was a quiet sympathy in his eyes. Perhaps he, too, understood that his father’s distance wasn’t up to him. “She is. She eats well and she sleeps a lot. She’s a good pup, very sweet.”

Jungkook shifted closer to Taehyung and farther from the Kims, warily eyeing up the latter two.

“Appa,” Taehyung said quietly. “You look tired.”

“I... I heard she was born. I haven’t been able to stop thinking about it. I hoped you were both doing well,” Hojun replied, averting his gaze almost shamefully.

“We’re doing great,” Taehyung said, tone so warm and reassuring despite the bad blood between them.

Hojun hesitated. “C-could I see her again?”

Jungkook’s lip curled, protest already on his tongue. He must have spent countless nights comforting Taehyung over the loss of his family. He knew just how stressed the Kims had made him in those early months, how ashamed they forced Taehyung to feel about his pup.

“I don’t know,” Taehyung said honestly. “Maybe. You’ve already lost the right to be part of her life.”

Kyungmi released a dry laugh then, shattering the gentle atmosphere Taehyung had created. “Your child’s got the blood of a Jeon—a mutt. How much more could her life be tainted, Taehyung?”

Taehyung’s expression hardened within an instant, steely eyes settling on his mother. “You talk to me like I’m still a Kim. We’re all Jeons. And no matter whose blood she’s got, you’re gonna keep your venom away from my family.”

Kyungmi sneered down at him. “You’ve really lost any sense of respect—”

“Respect for what?” Jungkook finally snapped. “Some shitty alpha who abandoned her son when he needed her? Who forced her mate to stay away from his son, his grandchild? You’re old bias, Kyungmi. You belong with the barbaric fuckin’ Kwons, with all your alpha posturing. Your rank means shit here.”

“Says the runt from a long line of dirty blood—single omega parents and tactless work. Jeons have no wit. It’s been bred right out of you,” Kyungmi spit. “I’m disgusted my son ever let you touch him.”

Taehyung stood, chair screeching back, snarl in his throat.

“Tae, no,” Jimin gasped, moving to stand himself. Yoongi placed a firm hand on his shoulder and held him down.

Jimin’s wide eyes met Yoongi’s sharp and composed pair. He wanted them to settle their own affairs; Jimin shouldn’t get involved.

Mother or not, Taehyung looked ready to strangle Kyungmi. Talking shit about an omega, that could be shrugged off. Talking shit about an omega’s mate? Well, blood had been spilled over lesser insults.

“Mother!” Seokjin shouted, rushing toward them frantically, appearing quite enraged himself. He thrust himself in front of Taehyung, bodily holding him back. “Leave them alone,” he hissed over his shoulder.

“He’s a disobedient little—”

“I don’t care!” Seokjin exclaimed, wincing as Taehyung continued to snarl, rough sound reverberating close to the elder’s ear. “I’ve told you not to cause trouble! Just go outside, for the moon’s sake. The pup can scent your aggression.”

Jimin hadn’t even heard Chunhwa whimpering, but it was now bordering on a wail. Jungkook shushed her, cradling her against his neck, cheek atop her head to shield her from the chaotic scene to the side.

Hojun inhaled a deep, shuddering breath. He turned on his heel and grabbed his mate’s hand, roughly pulling her shocked form away. Taehyung continued to snarl as he watched them move closer to the exit, a hostility unlike any Jimin had seen before glimmering in his eyes.

“Calm down,” Seokjin coaxed, detaching Taehyung from him, hands on his shoulders. “Just sit, be with Chunhwa. I’ll handle them.”

Taehyung shook his head. “You didn’t hear what she said—”

“I did,” Seokjin insisted. “I’ll talk to them, I swear. They don’t always listen to me, but it’s better than nothing. And I don’t need you stressing over it, okay? It’s over. They don’t deserve your attention.”

Taehyung floundered for a rebuttal, but his response died before he could utter it. He slumped his shoulders and exhaled. Seokjin kissed his temple and released him.

“It’s fine,” Seokjin insisted, stepping away to follow after his parents. “You’re fine.”

Taehyung retreated to the table, sitting down and immediately reaching out for his baby. Jungkook handed her over, expression conflicted as he watched the omega tuck Chunhwa under his chin. Taehyung gently rocked side to side, humming in lieu of a purr, trying to quiet her distressed whimpers.

“I’m sorry, Tae,” Jimin whispered.

Taehyung merely shook his head, wordless.

☽○☾

Sometimes, Jimin’s nightmares were merely memories. He would find himself trapped in the past, in a body much younger than his own. Once, he was knelt by his father’s still body, blood soaking his knees. Once, he was clinging to his mother, strange sounds of the night closing in on them, freezing his lungs with stark fear. Once, he was curled into the corner of the care facility, wailing for his mother, surrounded by scary and strange new scents.

Once, he was mocked for being an outsider. He could hear the snickers behind him, paused in his endeavor to catch a pretty purple butterfly. The other kids said he smelled wrong, heard he washed ashore from some other pack’s river. Their words were muffled, distant like a conversation carried on the wind. The grass between his toes grew blurrier, sunlit colors fading together until everything was too bright, too harsh.

He did not know who to wail for.

Twice, he dreamt of himself slightly older, still small for his age. The other kids would stick their feet out to trip Jimin up when he passed. He dreamt less of the stumbling, more of the cackling, the whispers, the beat of his rapid heart in his eardrums. Sometimes there was comfort after the fear and humiliation—Yoongi, his hand outstretched, tugging Jimin back to his feet, dusting him off as the younger boy sniffled.

Jimin found Yoongi in many of his dreams—his nightmares—just as the man had so seamlessly threaded himself into Jimin’s life. There were too many memories that haunted Jimin, instances when he simply couldn’t save himself. As much as Yoongi was a welcomed presence, he did not precede the hurt.

Jimin would fall through the worst aches of his past like rotting slats in the floor, from one dim, blurry, and frantic scene to another. He did not truly rest much when all his mind could linger on was his helplessness. In the end, they were all the same, a wordless chant of helpless helpless helpless in Jimin’s unconscious mind.

Tonight, there was a bonfire at Jimin’s back. The orange shadow cast by the roaring fire flickered at Jimin’s feet, his swaying body blocking out the worst of the simmering light. It was warm along his spine, but he could not focus on the heat, nor the laughter far behind, nor the drums thumping a steady beat behind his skull.

The group of young alphas mere feet off were talking to themselves, in that type of whisper that was never intended to be private. Jimin stared at the dark grass. The world wavered beneath his blurry vision. A wheeze, a dry and mocking chuckle, a bite to the atmosphere as soon as Jimin had turned away.

Jimin was done speaking to them. He was no longer more than an object to them.

“You know, he acts tough for an omega. But I bet the moment you get him on his knees, he’s a whining bitch like the rest of them.”

Jimin’s legs were unsteady, breath ragged, head spinning. “Don’t,” Taehyung said, voice cautious and distant. “Normally, you could beat them up, but you’re drunk, Jimin. Don’t risk that.”

“How could they—”

“Let it be,” his warbled voice insisted.

Jimin rocked back on his heels. If he wasn’t careful, he was sure to tip right over. The quiver in his limbs didn’t help, nor did the buzz in his ears, drowning out their cackling.

He was going to turn around, Jimin hazily told himself. He would face them, and he would defend his pride. Taehyung didn’t know what he was capable of, didn’t know how desperately Jimin needed to prove himself.

Jimin was strong. He was small, emotional, and rather defneseless in the grand scheme of the world. Jimin needed to be strong.

He had this nagging thought as he stared at the ground, as the orange grew brighter, creeping onto his legs, burning his skin beneath his tight clothes—Yoongi should be here. Yoongi should sweep in and save him.

Helpless.

Jimin sucked in a breath. No, he would do it. He would gather his wit and every ounce of bitter rage, and he would not let these alphas mock him for a rank that should have never been considered inferior.

Yet, he couldn’t move. The fire was scalding. The black of the night was heavy, suffocating.

Helpless.

Jimin’s throat closed up, his eyes watered.

Why couldn’t he just do something—

“Jimin,” a rough voice called, a hand on his bicep, shaking him. This voice was more distant, yet slowly gaining clarity as his other senses faded.

He sucked in a sharp breath, rousing awake.

“Jimin,” Yoongi repeated, voice quiet yet firm. “It’s okay.”

Jimin felt the whimper die in his throat the moment he realized he’d been uttering it. He must have been whimpering for quite some time, to wake Yoongi and worry him. He blindly reached out, catching onto Yoongi’s shirt and curling his fingers into the material.

Yoongi helped Jimin roll closer with a hand on his hip, sighing when Jimin buried his face against Yoongi’s neck.

Jimin inhaled and exhaled in a measured rhythm, hoping to calm his thumping heart. He vaguely heard rain pattering against the roof and bedroom window, a steady noise filling the otherwise silent house. There was a roar of wind, branches shaking, raindrops colliding with the glass.

Yoongi relaxed into his pillow, rubbing Jimin’s back as the omega calmed down. “Do you wanna talk about it?” He rumbled, voice thick with sleep.

Jimin shook his head.

“Okay,” Yoongi whispered, barely audible within the cacophony of the summer storm.

Jimin kept his eyes shut tight and basked in Yoongi’s scent, surrounding him like a warm blanket. He pressed his nose to Yoongi’s gland, muscles easing up as Yoongi began to release soothing pheromones. As tired as Jimin’s body was, he wasn’t sure he would be able to fall asleep again.

He felt Yoongi’s fingers carding through his hair. Jimin tangled their legs beneath the thin sheets and pressed their chests together, Yoongi’s rumbling inciting a purr within Jimin. Nothing felt more intimate his mate’s skin against his, so simple yet comforting.

“Sorry for waking you,” Jimin mumbled.

“No,” Yoongi sighed. “I wasn’t sleeping very deeply, anyway.”

“Rain too loud?”

“Mm. Been pouring for hours.”

“Should I sing you to sleep?” Jimin whispered.

Yoongi huffed—perhaps it was a tired laugh. “You should just sleep.”

“Can’t,” Jimin said simply, clutching tighter to Yoongi’s shirt. “My brain won’t shut up.”

“Are those books we’ve been reading before bed giving you nightmares, too?”

“No,” Jimin snorted. “They actually help sometimes.”

“Then what are these?”

“Memories.”

The house creaked, wooden slats distressed from the heavy wind. The window panes whistled. Jimin felt Yoongi’s chest rise and fall beneath him, the alpha’s steady breathing silent.

“I guess the memories are better than other things,” Jimin muttered. “I had a dream days ago that my baby was stillborn.”

Yoongi paused in his ministrations. He shifted away, hand resting in the dip of Jimin’s waist as he looked at the omega, blinking through the dim room. “It’s not real,” he said, searching Jimin’s eyes, trying to relay his confidence.

“I know,” Jimin said, reaching out to trail his fingertips along Yoongi’s jaw, feeling the tension beneath his touch. “It always feels real, though. There was so much pain, and I couldn’t breathe. There were people rushing around, and Jae was shouting. Then nothing. The pup didn’t cry.”

Jimin licked his lips, focusing on a spot over Yoongi’s shoulder, gaze distant. “I kept asking what was wrong. I think I knew what was wrong, but... but no one would tell me. I had to beg her to just give me my baby. It wasn’t even warm, Yoongi. Just cold and still in my arms.”

“Jimin,” Yoongi whispered, voice breaking. He swiped a thumb under Jimin’s eye, collecting the tears that had gathered in his lashes.

“Jae kept saying we had to bury it. We had to bury it and go. I didn’t know where we were going, or why everyone was being so urgent. She was trying to take my baby, and you were trying to help me up. You wouldn’t explain what was going on, or... or I guess I couldn’t hear. My ears were ringing.” Jimin’s throat tightened, voice tapering off.

“When I woke up, I couldn’t stop thinking about Eomma. She must have been so scared coming here. She was hurt, and I was cold and weak. But she kept going, even though she didn’t know we would survive. There was a chance I would die, so how—” Jimin stopped, shut his eyes. “How do you deal with that? How do you keep going when you know you could lose everything? She must’ve felt so helpless.”

“I think,” Yoongi said slowly, curling around Jimin and resting his chin atop the younger’s head, “That we must do crazy things for our kids. Leaving everything you’ve known, because you know they’re not gonna make it where you are now. And I think we’re starting to understand that.”

Jimin sniffled and nuzzled into him. “Yeah,” he murmured, any other response dying in his throat.

Jimin listened to Yoongi’s breathing, letting it lull him closer to unconsciousness. He just wanted to rest. The rain eased, only a soft patter along the roof. Yoongi was warm against his skin; Jimin felt their proximity through their bond. He felt himself losing his grip, thoughts growing muddled.

Then, like a clap of thunder, yet more terrifying than any sound nature could produce, a boom echoed beyond the walls.

Jimin stiffened. A beat passed, and another.

A second shot, this one lingering with a haunting rumble.

No distress howls, only the absence of sound and life.

One more moment passed before Jimin snapped to attention, a desperate fright sparking alight beneath his ribs.

“No,” Jimin gasped, refusing to loosen his grip on his mate. “Yoongi, please.”

“I have to go,” Yoongi said, voice rough and urgent. He forcefully untangled himself from Jimin, trying to ignore the omega’s desperate whines.

“Yoongi,” Jimin plead. “Don’t go. Don’t go out there.”

There weren’t supposed to be wolves out there; the patrols ended before sundown. Maybe the humans were hunting, Jimin told himself. Maybe there were other wolves from a different pack, toting those awful weapons. Anything other than what they feared.

“Jimin,” Yoongi said firmly, hoarsely, grasping Jimin’s small and quivering hands between his own. “I need you to breathe, and let me leave. No matter what it is, I have to check. I have to know.”

Jimin shook his head, adamant. “You can’t leave me.”

“I’m not—” Yoongi blinked through the moisture gathering in his eyes. Jimin felt his internal conflict reverberating through their bond. He ached as much as Jimin. Yet, he still fought it. “I’ll be back, I swear.”

“You don’t know that.”

Yoongi shut his eyes and took a deep breath. He kissed Jimin’s knuckles. “Believe me, please.”

Jimin was stunned into quiet, tears streaking down his flushed cheeks as Yoongi let go of his hands. Jimin felt cold.

“Don’t leave me,” Jimin whispered, voice vulnerable and strained.

 Yoongi opened the bedroom door. He wouldn’t meet Jimin’s eyes. “I love you,” he stated. “And don’t you dare follow me.”

“Yoongi,” Jimin wailed, heart breaking the moment he was out of sight. When the front door slammed closed with the harsh wind, Jimin flinched and released a sob. “Don’t leave me,” he repeated once more to the empty room.

Jimin wrapped his arms around his legs, curling up on the bed as he waited alone. He focused on the rain, matching the gusts of wind to his breathing. Keep breathing. His sobbing was blocking up his throat, but he repeated to himself, keep breathing.

Moments, maybe minutes, passed until Jimin couldn’t hear the world at all. His ears were ringing, reality fading from his senses as he stared at the open bedroom doorway.

Jimin dug his fingers into the material of his pants, barely noticing when his nails pressed down into skin. The house seemed to shake under the weight of the storm, and Jimin could only hold himself steady.

If there were any signals from other wolves, Jimin did not hear them.

He did not even ear the creak of his own front door.

His gaze was unfocused when the scene before him so suddenly changed, a taller figure pausing in the entryway. The scent hit him first, and Jimin whined.

Jungkook shushed him and took careful steps forward. “It’s okay. Yoongi sent me to get you.”

“No,” Jimin shrieked, unwrapping his arms from around himself so he could scramble back, teetering on the edge of the mattress. “You can’t make me go.”

“That’s not—” Jungkook stopped, brows pinched. “No, that’s not what I’m doing. We’re just going to see Taehyung. Our house is farther from the woods, and you shouldn’t be alone.”

Jimin eyed him warily, still convinced Yoongi had sent Jungkook to “save” him, to send him away to a territory that might still know peace. Jimin was aware, although he wanted to deny it, that Yoongi would go behind his back if it meant ensuring Jimin’s safety—even if it meant he would not see his mate for a long while, perhaps ever again. “If you try anything, I’ll bite you.”

“Jimin,” Jungkook sighed, making an urgent glance behind him. “I promise, I’m not here to smuggle you out of the pack.”

Jimin hesitated, but his lack of protest was enough approval for Jungkook. He stepped forward and grabbed Jimin from under his arms, simply heaving him over his shoulder. Jimin sqawked and slapped his back.

“I can walk!”

“You’re taking too long to decide. We need to go,” Jungkook insisted. He turned on his heel and rushed them out of the room, dropping Jimin to his feet by the front door. “Shoes, coat.”

Jimin glared up at him, yet did as instructed. He pulled a fur over his head, although he knew it wouldn’t do much to protect against the downpour. Jungkook wrapped an arm around his shoulders and guided them out, down the steps, and through the flooded grass. He didn’t allow Jimin time to glance back.

The walk was endless with the rain in Jimin’s eyes. He stumbled along blindly, clinging to Jungkook. The night was eerily quiet, shadows creeping around them, slinking along their heels. Jimin almost tripped when they arrived at the front steps, a hand on his back to guide him up.

He threw off his soaked fur on the porch and shook out his hair, sliding into the warmth of the cabin when Jungkook reached past him to open the door.

The living room was fairly dark, the fireplace crackling with mere embers. Humming echoed down the hall, Taehyung’s deep voice filling the space with a solemn tune. Jimin walked to the couch and lingered, the distance between him and Yoongi more tangible than before.

“He’s in the nursery,” Jungkook murmured, perhaps suggesting that Jimin should accompany Taehyung.

Instead, Jimin collapsed onto the couch and curled into the corner. He rested his cheek on the sofa’s arm and stared at the red embers shifting among heaps of ash. The cushions dipped at his feet as Jungkook settled beside him, no words uttered in the space between them.

He heard the weak cries emanating from the nursery, Taehyung’s gentle shushing quickly following.

“Hoseok said he’d be out toward the south this evening,” Jungkook whispered.

Jimin stiffened. “That was hours ago.”

“I know.”

“It’s not him.”

“Then who is it?”

Jimin pulled his lip between his teeth, heart in his throat. “I don’t know, but it’s not... not him.”

“Maybe it’s no one.”

 Jimin clamped his mouth shut, reluctant to voice his protest. Of course it was someone. The shots meant loss, meant pain and death and all the worse things beyond that. They were his own waking nightmare.

The floorboards creaked as Taehyung padded down the hall. He stopped in the living room, tired gaze settling on Jimin. Chunhwa was breathing unevenly, like she had just finished crying. She had a little hand fisted in the blanket swaddling her, rosy cheek over Taehyung’s heart.

Taehyung’s eyes flickered toward the door, then back to Jimin. He tilted his head. “Do you want a change of clothes?”

“No,” Jimin said dully. “These still smell like Yoongi.”

Taehyung sighed and slowly walked to Jungkook. “Anything?” He asked, lowering his voice.

“No,” Jungkook whispered. “No call for help. I don’t think they’ve found anyone yet, or they’d... they’d say something.”

“I don’t like the silence,” Taehyung muttered, running a hand along Chunhwa’s back.

A shiver wracked Jimin’s body. The ash in the fireplace collapsed in on itself, and the embers popped.

“Jimin, you’re cold,” Taehyung said.

“I’m fine.”

Jungkook pulled a blanket off the head of the couch and spread it over Jimin’s limp body. “Even if you’re worried and miserable, don’t be stupid,” he muttered.

At Jimin’s lack of reply, Taehyung exhaled heavily and bent down. He handed Chunhwa off to Jungkook, the latter laying out and settling her in the crook of his arm. Taehyung slowly approached Jimin, then brushed a careful hand through his wet hair.

Jimin continued to stare at the fireplace with hooded eyes. Taehyung walked to the kitchen to fetch a match, and he returned to light a candle on the living room table. Jimin could the bright flicker of a new flame out of the corner of his eye.

His view was soon blocked, though, when Taehyung stopped in front of him. The omega climbed onto the couch and tucked himself under the blanket, wrapping his arms around Jimin and pulling him flush to his chest.

When the first distant howl finally resounded—a call of grief—they said nothing.

Jimin wasn’t awake, yet he wasn’t quite asleep, either. He hung in the ambiguity of their ordeal, too tired and shocked to allow the stress to eat at him. He simply waited, focused on Taehyung’s steady breath fanning across his neck, his little unconscious noises and twitches.

Chunhwa sniffled a couple times throughout the night, the beginnings of a wail. Jungkook was swift and efficient in quieting her, though, careful to allow Taehyung time to rest—as if they had much else to do.

Jimin could’t help sitting straight up when a knock sounded at the door, however. Taehyung grunted in question, rubbing at his eyes while Jimin exchanged a wide-eyed glance with Jungkook. The alpha leaned forward and handed Chunhwa to Jimin, quickly sliding off the couch to rush to the door.

Then Hoseok was standing in the entryway, dripping rainwater onto the Jeons’ hardwood. He brushed his slick hair back, lips parted in a greeting, words cut off when Jungkook tugged him into a suffocating hug.

Jimin inhaled slowly, heartbeat speeding up. “Where’s Yoongi?” He was prepared to ask, frantic inquiry on his tongue when another wolf stepped through the threshold, just as soaked and exhausted as the previous. Jimin blinked, and suddenly his eyes were watering with a heady mix of distress and relief.

Chunhwa whimpered against his neck, and Taehyung took her away before Jimin’s head had fully caught up to him. He practically jumped off the sofa, running to the entryway to throw himself onto his mate. Yoongi grunted from the collision, but wrapped his arms around Jimin tight, nevertheless.

Jimin leaned back and placed his palms on both of Yoongi’s cheeks, frantically reading his expression. “You’re not hurt?”

“No,” Yoongi insisted. “I’m fine.”

Jimin nodded, allowing himself that short moment of reprieve. Then his fingertips slid up into the wet roots of Yoongi’s hair, cold against his skin. It was a stark reminder that the sky was still pouring, the moon surely crying for their pack. Rain, and hurt, and so much fear.

Jimin’s tongue felt heavy, his cheeks still stiff from dried tears, but he had to ask—he had to know.

“How many?” Jimin whispered.

Yoongi struggled for his voice, an ache in their bond and reluctance in his eyes. “Two.”

“Young alphas,” Hoseok solemnly added. “We don’t have names yet, but they’re unmated, so we think they’re from the dorm.”

Jimin’s breath hitched.

“Not Jihyun,” Yoongi swiftly stated. “I’m positive neither of them was Jihyun.”

“Were they...” Taehyung spoke up, then trailed off. His voice was as small as his appearance; he was hunched into himself and his child, remaining idle and alone on the sofa. He looked between the rain-sodden hunters. “Were they dead when you got there?”

Hoseok sighed, then nodded. “There were tracks, but no humans. The bodies were—were still warm.”

“What do you think they were doing?” Jungkook questioned, brows furrowed. “There’s no reason to be out there.”

“We can’t be sure,” Hoseok stated, running an anxious hand through his hair. “We’ll ask around the dorm tomorrow. For now, the bodies are in the infirmary, and Namjoon and the medics are working on identifying them. We don’t want to go knocking on every door searching for the families.”

“God,” Jimin breathed, resting his head on Yoongi’s shoulder. Grief washed through him, sharp and suffocating. “They’re just kids.”

Yoongi pressed his nose to Jimin’s hair and shut his eyes. He rubbed Jimin’s back, trying to ease his own aching heart. Jimin could still scent the blood on him—washed off, faint yet poignant.

A moment passed before Chunhwa broke their solemn tension. She whimpered, then wailed. Taehyung cooed and rocked her, but he couldn’t quell her cries.

Chapter Text

Jimin stared at the morning sunlight glimmering along the floorboards. His eyes stung from a lack of sleep, and he wanted nothing more to curl up in bed and never move again.

The house creaked with movement, Yoongi pacing around as he got dressed for the wake. As warm as it was outside, Jimin wore a thin, dark fur in respect for the solemn occasion. The two alphas had been identified before the sun rose, and they were surely being buried at this moment. The ceremony would be open to the rest of the pack very soon—Yoongi ought to be ready to head out by now.

To be honest, Jimin wasn’t entirely conscious. He saw a sparrow flit past the living room window, but he didn’t process the scene before him. His head was abuzz, his entire body numb. When the couch dipped beside him, he didn’t think to glance over or move.

“We should go,” Yoongi said softly.

Jimin finally registered there was someone next to him, that he was being prompted for action. “Oh,” he said simply.

Yoongi grasped Jimin’s hand, then, holding it steady between two of his own. Jimin blinked, slightly startled by the physical anchor, and finally faced his mate. Yoongi looked just as exhausted as Jimin, gaze heavy and skin pale.

“Just get through this morning,” he whispered. “That’s all you have to do.”

“It should feel real,” Jimin said, lips moving of their own accord. “But it doesn’t. You’d think... after Kangdae, it’d feel real.”

“Because you haven’t seen them,” Yoongi said gently.

Jimin licked his lips. “I don’t want to,” he confessed.

Jimin thought he ought to cry; it only felt right. He felt so disconnected from himself, however, as if his head didn’t quite connect to the rest of his body. He wondered how long it would take reality to rush back into him. He wondered how much it would hurt.

Jimin slid his hand out from between Yoongi’s and stood on unsteady legs. He glanced down at himself, ensuring he had actually gotten dressed—he couldn’t remember that morning very clearly.

Yoongi stood with a heavy exhale and walked to the door. Jimin followed after him like a lost pup. Jimin waited for Yoongi to turn the handle, to initiate the start of this godawful day. Yet, his mate paused, a tension under his skin. He shifted on his heel and closed the few inches between them, tugging Jimin tight to his chest.

Jimin’s arms hung limp for a few lingering moments while Yoongi pressed his nose to the omega’s scent gland. Then Jimin’s eyelids fell closed, and he wrapped his weak arms around Yoongi’s waist. He knew the embrace was for the alpha’s comfort, and the least he could do was return the action.

Perhaps some minutes passed before Yoongi had managed calm himself down; Jimin simply took the time to bask in the warm body wrapped around him, hoping it would tether him to his own body. When Yoongi released him, Jimin felt as if he had just woken from a nap, brain a little foggy, but slowly regaining coherency.

The sky was too bright that morning, too blue despite the smatter of drifting clouds. The territory was silent—even the leaf-laden branches hung heavy and still. There was no evidence of the aftermath, but they felt it like a rope pulled taut, awaiting enough pressure to truly snap.

Jimin watched the sky as they walked past the residential cabins, through the lightly swaying grasses, up the hill, down toward the graves. There was a swell of mourning scents at the bottom, palpable despite the flowing breeze.

The dewy grass glimmered orange under the early light. When they stopped beside Hoseok and Jungkook, all Jimin could focus on was the shimmering droplets at their feet.

He flinched when he heard sobbing, and Yoongi’s arm tightened around his shoulder, tugging him impossibly closer. There was more sniffling after that; one breakdown always led to another, it seemed. Despite the disturbance in the stiff atmosphere, Jimin could not bring himself to glance up. Losing a child was surely the most horrendous tragedy a wolf could imagine, and Jimin did not want to see the despair in the parents’ eyes.

Namjoon cleared his throat before he began the procession of eulogies, although he needn’t draw anyone’s attention or quiet the crowd.

Jimin absently wondered if the whole pack was here. Traditionally, wakes were mandatory for all wolves aside from young pups, as the entire pack was obligated to pay their respects to their fallen members. But this was no ordinary circumstance, and Jimin would not have been surprised if some wolves remained at home out of fear alone.

The realization that Taehyung was absent suddenly hit Jimin, and he had to remind himself that the omega had a pup to tend to. He felt a hint of pity for Jungkook, who had to endure this service without the comfort of a mate.

Yoongi rubbed Jimin’s arm, probably as a distraction for himself, as the service waned on. Jimin heard the names of the dead alphas, but he was not acquainted with them, so the names did not linger in his mind. He heard about their lives, though, from their parents—those who could keep it together long enough to speak—and siblings.

Despite such little personal interaction, Jimin knew their interests, aspirations, accomplishments, and childhoods. The first boy was sixteen and enjoyed agricultural work. The second was only a few months older, and he made repairs on pack buildings, as well as helped wolves build their own homes.

“We mourn all that they were, and all that they would have been,” Namjoon said in closing. “Now they are in the safety of the moon’s care.”

They remained rooted in their spot as some of the wolves dispersed. Jimin heard Hoseok’s voice faintly, whispering to Jungkook. Jimin wrapped his arms around Yoongi’s bicep and rested his cheek against the alpha’s shoulder. He finally glanced up, gaze catching on the turned-up dirt of the fresh graves. No markers yet, as they hadn’t the time to prepare.

“Sooyun would like you both to come spend the morning with us, if you can afford the time,” Hyunjae spoke to Yoongi, well aware that Jimin wasn’t entirely there.

Yoongi turned to Jimin, observed his state for a long moment. “Sure,” he replied, voice a little hoarse. “I do need to speak with the alphas in the dorm at some point today, though.”

“Perhaps a little time will do them well,” Hyunjae suggested. “And I’ll bet you could use a couple hours to catch a little rest.” She paused. “Did Jimin sleep?”

“Not at all,” Yoongi murmured. He moved his hand down to the small of Jimin’s back. “Maybe he’ll ease up if he’s at home with his mother.”

“Jimin,” Hyunjae said.

Jimin blinked, suddenly aware that she had stepped in front of him. She bent down to rest a hand on his shoulder.

“Are you with us?”

Jimin’s brows furrowed, her question falling on deaf ears. “Where’s Dasung?” When no one answered, he looked up at Yoongi. “Have you seen her?”

Yoongi gaped, wracking his memory. “Yes. She stood between Wheein and Hoseok.”

“Where is she now?” Jimin continued. “She might have known the alphas. She shouldn’t have to go home with her parents. She isn’t close with them, and she needs somewhere to mourn—”

“I’ll find her,” Yoongi quelled. “Don’t worry; I doubt she’s gone far.”

Yoongi had to detach himself from Jimin’s grip to search for her, leaving the omega to idle with wide eyes. Even Hyunjae’s touch didn’t quite settle him, and he wrapped his arms around his midsection as he waited, glancing at the few remaining wolves who passed by.

Upon Yoongi’s short return, he informed them that Dasung was already on her way to the Park household. After the wake, she had surprisingly found herself in the company of Jihyun.

Jimin was simply glad to know she would be cared for. It seemed that, under the pressure of the past few months, Jimin had begun to imprint on the younger, and he could not shake off the parental worry that arose in her absence.

Sooyun hummed as she flitted about the kitchen, searching for mugs as the kettle heated on the stove.

Jimin had been laid out on the sofa for an hour already, Yoongi curled around him, cheek rested on his belly as he napped. Jimin watched Yoongi’s lips part in his sleep, Jimin’s eyes hooded and fingers threading through his mate’s hair. Jimin wanted to kiss his mate’s cute nose, but hadn’t the energy to bend down, nor did he want to risk waking the alpha.

Dasung was cross-legged on the rug, staring at the empty fireplace as silence strung the room. Jihyun was close to sleep too, spread out on the farthest edge of the rug and eyes closed. No one stirred when the kettle whistled.

Dasung glanced up and watched Jimin pet Yoongi’s hair, her expression rather dull. She curled her fingers into the long fur of the rug. “Did you guys hear it last night?” She whispered.

“We were already awake,” Jimin replied. “Nightmare.”

“His?”

“Mine,” Jimin sighed. “I accidentally woke him.”

Dasung hummed. “I heard the other omegas, not the actual attack. There was a lot of panicked running around and crying. It wasn’t so loud once the sun rose, though. The head omega told us who got killed and... a lot of us knew them.”

“I’m sorry,” Jimin mumbled, heart heavy.

Dasung shrugged. “I was never close with either of them, but it still feels personal. I guess Donghyun was courting one of the girls who lives on the first floor. She looked terrible this morning.” Dasung leaned back on her palms. “But I guess it’s not as bad as losing a mate.”

“Yes, well,” Jimin said, lip pulled between his teeth, “A loss is a loss.”

“I’d still like to know what those boys were doing out there,” Sooyun said, walking into the living room with two steaming mugs of tea. She handed one down to Dasung, then the other to Jimin.