Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“You’re so beautiful, Tae!” Sunghee laughed, clapping her hands. Taehyung looked at himself in the mirror and gave a little twirl, “Does it really look good?”

Taehyung always had an eye for pretty things- gowns and dresses that sparkled and flowed gracefully. They were so meticulously designed by dedicated artisans , each detail a work of art. He doesn’t own any dresses of his own though- mostly tries on and borrows his sisters. Taehyung’s father- an alpha-  disapproves of him wearing anything feminine and Taehyung can’t help but think that his father is ashamed for having an omega as a son.

Then there was his mother, a beta; she’s wonderful but Taehyung knows there’s favoritism when it comes to his sister. When they were children, Sunghee bumped into a treasured vase while they were playing and it shattered against the polished wooden floor. The vase was given to their mother as gift from their grandfather, it carried tremendous value and meant a lot to their mother. Sunghee was given a lecture- a slap on the wrist compared to what happened to Taehyung.

Even though he wasn’t the one who’d broken the vase, he was still punished for initiating the playing. Taehyung got fiercely scolded, tears running down his plump cheeks as he tried to wipe them away with his chubby hand. He was only four-years-old and didn’t understand why he was in trouble. Taehyung was then grounded to his room- he wasn’t allowed to play or even eat at the dinner table. The isolation affected Taehyung’s young mind, but Sunghee helped every way she could.

She never agreed to Taehyung’s punishment- she cried and begged to have Taehyung released but they refused. When the sky turned a midnight black, Sunghee would steal Taehyung’s bedroom key from their parents drawer and sneak into his bedroom. She would comfort him, play with him and sometimes bring sweets just for him.

The only person who has truly supported him was Sunghee. She was his rock and protector- Taehyung doesn’t know what he’d do without her. Sunghee was his older sister,  heir to the throne and, a powerful alpha.

“Yes! You look just like a princess, even better actually.  I can’t believe my old dresses fit you better than it fit me.” She huffed, crossing her arms.

“But this is so awkward,” Taehyung reached up and cupped the empty space of where the breasts should be, “Is this how flat-chested girls feel?”

Sunghee laughed, “I keep asking you if you want my tailor to make you a custom dress, something more fitted and meant for your body type.”

“I’m fine, Sunghee,” Taehyung whined, “Your dresses are more than enough for me. Besides, it’s not like I wear these dresses to events, only around the palace.”

“I suppose so,” Sunghee replied, “Now! Let’s try on this silk gown I wore at my first ball,”

-

The tea was gross and bitter- to Taehyung at least. Everyone else seemed to enjoy it though but he couldn’t understand why- have they ever heard of milk and sugar? Taehyung put his cup down in distaste.

Taehyung is currently at a “nice, social gathering” as his parents put it, but really it’s a soiree for gossip consisted of royal and noble youths. Today, the Kim royal family decided to host it in their grand ballroom. Status families find it very important that their children have influential social connections with each other once they grow older.

Taehyung takes a bite of his jam sandwich as he listens to how Namjoon got placed in advanced mathematics. Namjoon is from the noble Kim family, they’ve built many hospitals around the kingdom and are extremely wealthy. He’s also one of Taehyung’s best friends, someone he trusts and tolerates- unlike some bothersome people here. Prince Jimin and Yoongi, Earl Seokjin and Baron Hoseok make up the rest of his friend group.

Jimin was Taehyung’s bestest friend and soulmate. Yoongi provided advice whenever Taehyung needed it and Seokjin’s family came from a long line of culinary connoisseur’s. And Hoseok is one of the best architects out there, sought out for in every kingdom to build churches and museums.

“Did you hear Prince Jeongguk might come today?” Jimin says, making most of them turn their heads in surprise.

“Who?” Taehyung asks, too busy stealing one of Hoseok’s egg sandwiches. “Is he that prince that’s been traveling?”

“Yeah, that’s him.” Yoongi responds, “One of his mother’s sent a letter to mine, he returned from his travels a week ago. Said she wanted him to come to this event.”

“I don’t see him,” Seokjin said, “he’s probably not coming. Anyway, when do we have fencing classes again?”

Taehyung zoned out of the conversation. He was a socialite, but it doesn’t mean he didn’t like to blend into the background once in a while. Days where he was comfortable being with himself and his thoughts- today was one of those days. He’s heard about Jeongguk before yet never had the pleasure of meeting him. Jeongguk left his kingdom a while ago to relieve his wanderlust. Sometimes, Taehyung wishes he could leave just like Jeongguk so easily had. Get on a horse, a boat, anything- and go anywhere.

Taehyung felt a tap on his shoulder, it was Sunghee.

“Father wants us. It’s urgent.” She whispered, then grabbed his hand and dragged him to the entrance of the ballroom where their parents were waiting. Taehyung could feel the stares on him as Sunghee pulls him through the room.

Their father dusted off Taehyung’s coat, “Stand up straight, son. Important company is here.” Taehyung translated that to: “Don’t embarrass me.” He could feel everyone in the room stand still- anticipating.

The doors opened, Queen Jeon and Queen Choi walking in with their son right behind them.

“Welcome!” His mother greets, kissing both of the queens cheeks, “I haven’t seen you in so long, Yoona- and you look so ravishing, Jieun!”

Queen Jeon Yoona and Taehyung’s mother were good friends, often visiting each other during the summer months. Yoona got married to Jieun, and had a child not long after.

“You look bright yourself. As do you, King Kim.” Queen Jeon smiled, “Allow me to introduce my son, Prince Jeon Jeongguk.”

Taehyung and Sunghee bowed while their parents gave a light nod. Taehyung scrunched his nose up- Jeongguk’s scent was pungent. Sandalwood and something else he can’t quite pinpoint. Mint maybe? Or cinnamon. An obvious alpha. In fact, both his mothers reeked alpha as well.

His father spoke up, “This is my son, Prince Taehyung, and my daughter, Princess Sunghee, she’s next in line to inherit the throne.” His voice was full of pride. Where was that tone for him?

Prince Jeongguk bowed, “What an honor,”

“Oh, Sunghee be a dear and show Prince Jeongguk around, will you?” Taehyung’s mother said before turning back to the Queens and his father, “As for us, we’ll go to the next room and catch up.”

Taehyung watched all of them go; his parents and the queens to another room and Sunghee walking away with Jeongguk towards the snack table. Jeongguk’s posture was proud and tall. Dark hair parted carefully, broad chest and muscles with a handsome face (as every prince should) and tanned skin from his trips abroad. He was such a typical alpha.

Taehyung sighed, and turned to walk back to his table where his friends were waiting. All of them had questions to ask.

-

The event lasted a good four hours after that. Taehyung and his family had to stand by the entrance to thank everyone for coming as they walked out. It was exhausting, but he was glad it was over. Taehyung couldn’t wait to take a bath with essential oils and change into his pyjamas made from the best imported silk. What can he say? He’s a spoiled brat.

He sunk into his bed, sighing in pleasure and ready to let sleep overtake him. That is, until Sunghee came bouncing in.

“Tae! I’m so happy!” She jumped right on top of him, earning a groan from Taehyung. “He gave me his private postal address!”

“Who?” Taehyung said in annoyance, slightly confused.

Sunghee rolled her eyes, “Jeongguk, you sleepy dummy.”

Oh. Right.

“We exchanged postal addresses, but do you think I should write to him first? Or would that make me look desperate? Should I wait until he writes to me?” She babbled, and Taehyung tried to keep up. “He said he’ll be visiting back tomorrow after his morning lecture in physics. What should I wear?”

“Wait- Sunghee- are you actually interested in this guy?” Taehyung sat up in bed and watched amusingly as his sisters face turned red.

“What? No- I’m just- no.”

He couldn’t believe it. Lots of suitors came for his sisters hand- all of them got rejected. Hell, even Yoongi tried courting his sister when they were teenagers. Not saying Sunghee had a cold heart- she was always waiting for the one. Someone that loved her as much as she loved them- and together they would rule in happiness.

Taehyung supported this- but he is not supporting the fact that some random alpha dude is the answer to his sisters prayers. No way.

Chapter Text

Taehyung grumpily chewed his pastry- he was never a morning person. Neither was his sister, but Prince Jeongguk’s visit later on in the day had Sunghee practically bouncing in her chair.

Right now, his family was having breakfast in their garden pavilion. His family had three vast pavilions made of glass, but this particular one was Taehyung’s favourite. The colorful, tropical plants created a soothing atmosphere that made Taehyung feel right at home. He had an appreciation for nature, and the way the sun gleamed through the glistening glass that enclosed the pavilion created a utopia for Taehyung. Sometimes, when he was experiencing a sleepless night, Taehyung would sneak out of his bedroom and take a stroll around the garden to calm his nerves. And when Taehyung was a child, he and Sunghee would play hide-and-go-seek together for hours. Whenever Jimin came over for playdates, he’d teach Taehyung how to read under the tall palm tree near the entrance. The memories in this pavilion were always the sweetest, Taehyung’s safe space.

In the center of the pavilion was a clearing with chairs and tables, and a small gazebo. The table his family was dining at was littered with silver platters of pastries, made from their finest pâtissière, and glass jars of preservatives. Glass pitchers of fresh fruit juice and locally grown apples and oranges were sliced, along with poached eggs on toast. Although, Taehyung always went for the fruit tart and ate those instead of the actual main course the chefs sent out.

“Darling, today you’ll be joining us in our meeting with the Dispatch Council ,” His mother told his sister, “so you can get a feel of what it’s like in a meeting of higher ups once you’re queen.”

The Dispatch Council was in charge of foreign affairs and Taehyung wasn’t sure why they needed a meeting. Currently, there was no one at war or even on the edge of war- they were living in a moment of peace which would probably end up as the boring part in future history textbooks. The Elders are most likely going to discuss which transports goes to who anyway.

Sunghee gleamed, “Of course! What time do we leave?”

“This morning, at eleven,” Their father answered, “We’ll get back around one in the afternoon.”

“What about Jeongguk?” Taehyung chimed in.

His mother hummed, “He’ll be arriving at twelve-”

“Twelve?” Sunghee exclaimed, “but we’ll be gone by then.”

Their father chuckled, “You worry too much. Taehyung will be here to keep him company- isn’t that right?” Everyone turned their attention to Taehyung as he groaned internally. He planned to do things once his family left; sneak out and visit the closest village, maybe go down to the kitchens and ask someone to teach him how to make that fruit tart he loves so much- anything but keeping some prince company. Who did they think he is? An entertainer?

“Sure,” Taehyung replied. He didn’t want to do it- but he’d do anything for his big sister.

“Thank you, Taehyungie!” Sunghee smiled, making his heart warm.

Before Taehyung could reach a slice of jammed bread, a servant came in with a teapot and a small glass cup filled with a certain liquid Taehyung dreaded so much. The servant filled everyone’s teacups with tea, and gave the small glass cup filled with a light purple liquid to Taehyung before leaving, “Your suppressant, my Prince.”

Taehyung stared down at the cup. He hated drinking it every morning, it reminded him of what he was everyday- an omega.

Special herbs grown under the full-moon with intense care, then picked and dried. The herbs are expensive, mostly bought by the wealthy. All the effort and money put into this, and for what? To suppress omega pheromones? As much as Taehyung hated his suppressants, he was also grateful. They prevented him from getting harassed and made his heats less painful.

Taehyung swallowed the liquid in one go and his face scrunched up in disgust. It may look beautiful- being a vibrant shade of purple- but it was so strong and felt like acid down his throat. Taehyung hates bitter things.

“Well, I’m going now. Please excuse me,” Taehyung got up from his chair and bowed before leaving. Not that his parents gave him much attention anyway.

-

The water could been warmer, Taehyung thought, I’m getting out soon anyway so it doesn’t matter.

Taehyung was currently soaking in a bath- has been for the past forty minutes. After leaving breakfast, Taehyung decided to go read for a while and draw a little. He then said his goodbyes to his parents and sister as they left for their morning meeting. Taehyung still had a solid hour before Jeongguk would arrive, and then Taehyung would be on babysitting duty until his sister got back. Seriously, a grown alpha can amuse himself, can’t he? Why does he have to be there with him?

Taehyung ran himself a warm bath to pass the time. His grand bathroom was one to be envied- white marble floors with sleek white walls. Tall windows that overlook the rose garden, framed with thin curtains that flow with ease. His bathtub could fit at least three people comfortably. Not that Taehyung ever takes a bath with other people. Taehyung blended rose water, essential oils and honeymilk into his water and added rose petals just for heck of it. The water turned a light opaque pink and felt like liquid silk against Taehyung’s skin.

He stayed in the bath a while longer before decided he should get out and make himself presentable before His Royal Highness came. Reaching for his fluffy robe, and making his way to his bedroom to get dressed, Taehyung saw his personal servant was already waiting. It was still twenty minutes till twelve o’clock, his family was gone already and now all he has to do is wait for Jeongguk to make an appearance. He still had time to change- Taehyung couldn’t tell why his servant seemed so anxious when Jeongguk is probably going to be fashionably late anyway.

Taehyung let his servant quickly dress him, “Did you see the gift Prince Jeongguk brought for Princess Sunghee?” Jinsoo said, smirking a bit, “some say it’s a courting gift. Your sister has some taste!”

Taehyung looked confused, “What gift? When?”

Jinsoo’s mouth made an ‘O’ shape as he tucked Taehyung’s floral print shirt, “I forgot you’ve been in the bath, and i’ve been meaning to tell you. Prince Jeongguk has arrived and he brought gifts for your sister, they’re in her chambers for when she comes back.”

“What?” Taehyung gasped, “He’s here already? Why is he early? Oh shit- please hurry, Jinsoo.”

“Don’t worry, your Majesty. I’m done and he’s-” Jinsoo was interrupted by a polite knock at Taehyung’s bedroom door. “-on his way. That must be Jeongguk. He was sent to your room after the servants took care of his gifts.” Taehyung was baffled. His room? Invading his privacy? Why? He could have been sent one of the libraries, their gallery- anywhere but his room.

Jinsoo sensed Taehyung’s discomfort, but figures that he would just have to deal with it. He opened the door for Jeongguk and allowed him to come inside, bowed then took his leave. The two boys in the room were now alone. Jeongguk was wearing a dark blouse with black trousers and a black blazer. Complete opposite of Taehyung’s colourful ensemble. Jeongguk was also holding a wrapped box which made Taehyung curious.

“Prince Taehyung, it’s a pleasure seeing you again.” Jeongguk’s bunny-like smile seemed to reach his ears.

Taehyung tried to put on a nice smile, “Likewise. Pardon me but- what’s that?” He pointed at the box.

“Oh- I completely forgot. It’s..for you.” Jeongguk seemed hesitant as he handed the beautifully wrapped present over to Taehyung. This was strange. So, so strange. Perhaps Jeongguk has a custom to give gifts to everyone in a family, and not just the one he’s courting. Which means he brought gifts for his mother and father, no doubt. Or maybe he knew Sunghee was going to be out of the palace and felt rude bringing a present just for her. Yes, that must be it.

Taehyung thanked Jeongguk and began to unwrap the gift; he felt bad ripping such pretty wrapping paper but Jeongguk’s eyes edged him on. Jeongguk seemed excited- anticipating to see if Taehyung will like the gift he gave to him. He looked cute, Taehyung thought. The paper was gone, leaving a carved wooden box with a latch. Upon undoing the latch revealed fruit- Taehyung’s favourite fruits.

“Wh- I’m- How did you get these?” Taehyung couldn’t stop the genuine box-smile that grew on his face. Fruits weren’t uncommon but due to climates, certain fruits were grown in certain kingdoms. Importing them took a great effort, they could get stolen or simply get soiled from the journey. The only time Taehyung really got to enjoy his favourite fruits- which were peaches, dragon fruit and mango- was when there was huge event or feast where most kingdoms were present. The celebration of a new year or someone’s royal wedding are typical events where Taehyung can find all of his favourite fruits in one place.

Jeongguk smirked at Taehyung, seemingly satisfied in himself, “I pulled some strings.”

“Thank you so much, Prince Jeongguk,” Taehyung said as he picked up a peach and took a bite- the juices exploded in his mouth and he had to stop himself from moaning. He knew he should’ve washed it first or give it to a servant to cut it for him, but it was so tempting and he really needed a snack. “How did you know that I liked these fruits?” Taehyung asked, mouth full of peach. Yes, he was a prince but all manners were thrown out the window the second Taehyung revealed the heavenly goods.

“Oh- um, lucky guess.” Jeongguk’s face flushed.

Taehyung laughed, “Good guess, you were spot on.” Maybe this Alpha-Crown-Prince Jeongguk wasn’t so bad at all.

-

It didn’t take long for Taehyung to befriend Jeongguk. At first, Jeongguk thought Taehyung didn’t like him at all. Which might be true, but he’s glad things are different now. Taehyung is so funny, sweet and caring. Taehyung’s laugh sounds like gentle bells and makes Jeongguk feel like he’s holding his breath. His fluttery lashes that outline his bright eyes. Oh, his big eyes that resemble pools of honey- liquid gold. Jeongguk could get lost in them forever. Overall, Taehyung is a beautiful person. Not to mention his scent; something about it is so loving and warm- so fruity and fresh. Although it is muffled and subtle, probably from suppressants.

“So, do you have any siblings?” Taehyung’s voice brings Jeongguk back to reality. He almost forgot they were taking a stroll around the palace rose garden. After giving Taehyung his gift, they decided to walk around outside and talk. The garden wasn’t filled with just red roses though- there were white, peach and orange as well. They also had four or so bushes of rare blue roses. Jeongguk fought the urge to pick one, pull off the thornes and present it to Taehyung.

“Yup,” replied Jeongguk, “I have one younger sister and two younger brothers.”

Taehyung’s eyes lit up, “Wow, really? How cute! How old are they? I always wanted younger siblings.”

Jeongguk felt his heart clench and stutter. Fuck, he’s so cute. “T-They’re um, my brothers are five and six- and my sister is turning sixteen. She’s having her debutante ball soon, actually. My parents wanted to celebrate my coming back from my travels, but since her ball is so soon they decided to just combine the parties.”

“Smart. Less arranging, twice the fun.” Taehyung smiled his signature boxy smile, “Am I invited?”

The raven-haired boy scooped Taehyung’s hands in his; his hands were soft, and pretty- decorated in jewelry. “Of course you’re invited, Tae.” The gesture and use of the nickname was odd to Taehyung yet somehow the omega couldn’t bring it in himself to care. He was too entranced.

Taehyung stopped walking and glanced down at their intertwined hands, then at Jeongguk. Why did it fit so perfectly? Taehyung never noticed how soft Jeongguk was- despite being an alpha. Strong nose bridge yet gentle lip curves. Sharp jawline but sweet, childish eyes. Jeongguk wasn’t like most alphas in the royal court- he was respectful, and thoughtful. He didn’t see Taehyung as his inferior like most alphas do.

Yes, Taehyung is a prince, but he was so tired of asserting his title just to get some respect. Jeongguk was different. They both hold the same title, Jeongguk could have easily contempted Taehyung. He was an alpha and the next king of his kingdom after all. And yet, he treated Taehyung as an equal. A friend.

He can see why Sunghee liked him so much.

“You okay, Tae?”

Taehyung blinked, his mind wandered for a bit. “Yeah, I’m okay.”

“Your Majesties!” A voice called out from the distance. It was Jinsoo. Taehyung and Jeongguk let go of their hands and automatically distanced themselves.

Jinsoo was out of breath once he caught up to them, “Princess Sunghee has arrived, your Majesties. She’s waiting for you in the observatory,” The last sentence was directed towards Prince Jeongguk.

“Oh- um, I’ll be right there.” Jeongguk turned towards Taehyung, “Keep in touch?”

“Mhm. I’ll be around.” Taehyung waved goodbye. Taehyung could not decipher what this feeling was. Why he was so disappointed, so somber.

Chapter Text

 Five kingdoms ruled the vast land; Vervain, Aelius, Cosm, Ashina and Tempus.

These kingdoms weren’t always at peace- in fact it was war-stricken for quite some time. Long before Taehyung’s parents were born. Land, resources and politics have driven these countries to war. Vervain, delicate yet impactful- the only kingdom named after flora and known to have royal omega bloodline. Aelius, powerful as the sun with the most strategic army. Cosm, orderly and just. Ashina, innovative and Tempus- technological and organised.

What some say caused these decades of war was when the alpha king of Ashina murdered the omega queen of Vervain, which caused shock and outrage throughout all countries. It caused controversy- some saying he killed her out of prejudice. An omega was unfit to be in the royal court in his eyes.

Others say he murdered for the sake of his country- to stop her from bleeding corruption and ruining his reign. Unfortunately, the Ashina king had massive support- people who have the mindset to think that omegas don’t belong in politics or aristocracy. At the same time, omegas nationwide came together and started a peaceful movement that soon turned into a violent revolution for equality.

The war between Vervain and Ashina began- forcing the remaining countries to pick sides. History is unclear as to who really won the war, everything became blurry once the fire burned out. Once it burned out, new fires began. The countries always found something to make a war out of- temporary alliances formed and civil war started within the kingdoms.

Aelius had an excellent army and during the War of the Sun, the country had conquered all of the kingdoms. Well, almost. It took the unity of Vervain, Cosm, Ashina and Tempus to push Aelius back. Aelius was a very powerful state- rumors say it’s because the royal bloodline is pure alpha (which is false because while there were pure alpha rulers, not all were pure alpha). Their court was diverse in terms of ranks but the king and queens of Aelius themselves have always been alphas- pure or not. They are the only kingdom that has nothing but alpha rulers.

Unlike Aelius, there was the kingdom of Vervain. The first and only kingdom to have omega rulers.

The entire land was in ruin after the wars; the people were separated, beliefs left and right with no in between, politics were corrupt and the casualties went off the charts. Once the rulers noticed how they nearly destroyed each other to nothing, they realized they had to do something. They put their differences aside and formed alliances with one another cemented by marriage. In fact, Taehyung’s great grandparents were the product of an alliance marriage.

Ever since forming the alliances, the land was in an era of recovery. Towns and cities were rebuilt because of the damage, the economy boomed and civilians were healing. All seemed well but once discrimination was imprinted, it’s hard to take it away. Many still had strong opinions and heavy prejudice. That would continue even to this day.

-

“Wait- he. Did. Not.” Jimin’s mouth made a clear ‘O’ shape. Taehyung and Jimin were in the latters chambers- clay masks on and hair tied up. The bed they were sitting on was messy with snacks and fashion catalogs. Taehyung was visiting his best friend for the weekend and spilled his encounter with Jeongguk.

Taehyung picked a cherry from a bowl, “Yes he did! I was so shocked.”

“I can't believe he gifted you your favorite fruits! He’s such a kiss-ass! How does he even know which fruits are your favorite anyway? Is he some kind of stalker? Jeongguk’s trying to score cool points with you so you’ll feel more at ease with him courting your sister.”

“You really think he was trying to butter me up?” Taehyung said, pouting. Could it be true? Jeongguk seemed like he genuinely wanted to be Taehyung’s friend, not some obstacle to cross to get to his sister. But when has Jimin ever been wrong? Even so, deep down inside, Taehyung hopes he’s wrong. Jeongguk was so sweet, and treated him like a friend.

Jimin looked at Tae as if the younger grew two heads, “Duh! That’s exactly what he’s doing. If he can get through you, then you’ve practically given him your blessing.”

“What?”

The elder rolled his eyes, “Let me dumb it down for you- He wants to court your sister but you, her scary little brother, is in the way. What do you do? Obviously, you give the little brother goods and treats to make him happy. Do you see what I’m trying to say? If Jeongguk can make you content, he’ll have an easier time dating your sister. Also, if Sunghee sees how much you two get along she’ll probably fall in love with him in no time. It’s a win-win for Jeongguk.”

Taehyung processed what Jimin said and scoffed, “I can’t believe I didn’t notice this sooner.” Yes, it was true that Sunghee didn’t take up too many suitors but it was also true that Taehyung tried to scare away whatever suitors she did have. It wasn’t like Taehyung wanted to purposely sabotage her relationships, he just wanted to test them to see if they were worthy enough for his sister’s hand in marriage. Obviously, they weren’t. If they couldn’t handle Taehyung’s grilling, then what kind of husband would they be?

Taehyung never physically harmed them- he wasn’t a brute. He’d corner them, press them with questions and concerns. At the dinner table, he’d stare them down with the best glare he had and would, admittedly, enjoy when they squirmed in discomfort. And, if they ever try to put their hands on him, Taehyung would tell Sunghee and she’d get rid of them. But Taehyung’s days of scaring his sisters potential mates away were over- with his parents getting older, the pressure on Sunghee for an heir and a mate were increasing.

“You’ll be fine, babe,” Jimin responded, “I’m always here to look after you.”

Jimin and Taehyung gossiped some more, looked at a few jewelry designs and eventually ended up in a closet full of gowns that belonged to Jimin. From vintage dresses handed down to Jimin from old relatives, to dresses that were more in style that season- his best friend had it all but most importantly, his parents were fine with it. They did not reprimand him nor did they punish him. Like Taehyung, Jimin has an eye for beautiful things but rather than enjoy wearing them like Taehyung does, Jimin much prefer styling them on someone else. Jimin’s parents allow their son to explore that creativity, seeing that he’s indeed, a very good stylist. Taehyung always envied that freedom- but he never dwells on it because Jimin’s heart is too big for his own good.

“Tae, you need to try this on!” Jimin pulled out a pale blue satin slip dress. “You’d look so sexy in it,”

Taehyung gawked at the dress and slowly felt his cheeks heat up. He’s never worn something so..short. It was definitely pretty though. And Taehyung loves feeling pretty. “Chim, what the hell? That’s so damn short- is that for sleeping?”

Jimin shrugged, “Who cares? As long as you look good in it-” He pushed the satin dress into Taehyung’s arms and went towards one of his many jewelry boxes, “While you put on that dress, I’ll pick out a few jewelry pieces for you to match.”

Taehyung sighed and gave in. He couldn’t really say no to Jimin when he insists, plus the curiosity of how he’d look in the dress got the better of him. Taehyung stripped down to his undergarments and squeezed into the dress. He had to admit that he liked how the dress hugged his figure. The color made his sun-kissed skin glow- Jimin was right (he always is), the slip dress made him feel and look sexy. He’d have to borrow this sometime.

“Damn, boy,” The elder whistled, “You look hot!” Jimin gave his butt a stern, yet friendly, slap that echoed throughout Jimin’s walk-in closet. Taehyung pouted and rubbed his (most likely) bruised ass.

Jimin presented him with blue rhombus-shaped earrings and a ruffled choker. Taehyung got his ears pierced when he snuck out of the castle during the winter of his fourteenth birthday. He found a shop that specializes in piercing ears, and when Taehyung laid his eyes on the beautiful, sparkling earrings that could potentially dangle from his ear, he just couldn’t say no. Once his parents saw what he had done, they reigned hell on him. His father nearly struck him, but Sunghee stopped him. His punishment wasn’t that bad, seeing as his birthday was coming up. His parents assigned a guard to follow and supervise Taehyung for almost a month. It was humiliating, but it was all worth it when Sunghee left a decorative box full of earrings in his bedroom.

Jimin helped Taehyung put on the blue earrings, as well as the ruffled collar. Once Taehyung saw himself in the full-length mirror, he couldn’t help but praise Jimin for doing such a good job. The pale blue contrasted nicely with Taehyung’s tan skin. His mile long legs were exposed and the slip dress hugged his frame quite attractively. The dip of his waist, the round of his hips and softness of his legs. Taehyung has never taken the time to truly appreciate his body- he spends most of the time resenting it. The femininity of his body made him insecure and ashamed. He was still on the journey of accepting his body and omega rank. Accepting and respecting his feminine features as well as his masculine features. Broad shoulders, a honey voice and much more. Taehyung felt arms wrapping around his waist, and saw Jimin’s head rest on his shoulder.

“Tae, you’re so beautiful,” Jimin nuzzled Taehyung’s neck, rubbed behind his ear and against his scent glands, spreading his calming scent of chamomile and jasmine all over Taehyung. Jimin was a beta, his scent wasn’t as heavy or strong as an alphas or omegas, but it did the job. Jimin always had a protective streak for Taehyung- claimed it was his job as his hyung to look after him- so when Jimin scented Taehyung (which was often), Taehyung never really batted an eye. In fact, Jimin’s scent mingled surprisingly well with Taehyung’s own raspberry and cherry blossom scent.

Taehyung laughed, “So are you, Minnie.” He felt Jimin squeeze tighter. “I want to try on something else. I’ll let you dress me in whatever you find pleasing, okay Jimin?”

The two of them stayed in that closet for a while, trying on all kinds of dresses, shoes, headwear and jewelry. Jimin’s inner artist exploded and Taehyung was his canvas. Once they were done playing dress-up, they stored all the clothing scattered around the closet away and went to bed. They didn’t sleep right away, though. They stayed in bed together and talked about deep things- things that they feel like they can only say in the dark, pressed together tightly. Taehyung’s head rested on Jimin’s chest, his arms and legs engulfing the beta in a giant hug.

“You know I love you, right hyung?”

Jimin smiled, knowing Taehyung can’t see. “Yes, Tae. I know.”

“Do you think I’m being too overprotective? Over my sister?”

“I just think you care about her a lot.”

Taehyung shifted in the bed and pressed himself against Jimin’s side, “What if Jeongguk really is the one for her?”

The elder held Taehyung close, “Well then, we should be happy for them. We don’t know the future. He could be, or he could not. I mean, remember when you thought Hyungsik was the one for you?”

Taehyung groaned, “Ugh, don’t remind me.”

Jimin giggled as quietly as he could, “What I’m saying is maybe you should stay out of it this time. I know I said that Jeongguk was trying to bribe you, blah, blah- but if he’s as nice as you made him out to be then maybe he is the one. Sunghee seems infatuated with him already. And, I was walking around town the other day and heard people talk about how good they get along and couldn’t wait for them to get wedded soon.”

Taehyung hummed. Maybe he is the one. Yet all this marriage talk about Jeongguk and Sunghee made his heart ache, and he didn’t know why. Taehyung was too drowsy to truly comprehend why. “I’m tired.”

“Go to sleep then, babe.” Jimin ruffled his hair, “Your carriage gets here early morning to take you back home. Wake me up before you leave, okay? Also take those earrings you tried on. It looks better on you than they ever did on me,”

“M’kay,” Taehyung yawned, and cuddled into Jimin, taking a long inhale of his scent.

-

Morning came too soon, and soon Taehyung was on his way back to Vervain and away from Cosm. He wore the earrings Jimin gifted him and arrived to his palace during the late afternoon. He was terribly excited to get out and stretch his legs; and most importantly, to say hello to his big sister. When the maids carried his luggage back to his chambers and Taehyung greeted his parents, he asked the servants where Sunghee was and quickly made his way over to her destination.

You can imagine his disappointment when he sees that his sister is not alone. Of course Jeongguk had to be there. Doesn’t he have a home? Or damn hobby? He wasn’t quite sure what he was upset about. He supposes the long carriage ride made him moody.

“Oh. I didn’t realize we had company.” Taehyung said.

“Tae! You’re back, I missed you so much. How is Jimin?” Sunghee pulled Taehyung in for a hug, “Jesus, you reek of him.”

“Jimin’s good. Hello, Jeongguk,” Taehyung replied.

Jeongguk’s face looked much sterner than usual, his face scrunched up and stiff. His eyes had a cold glare and his scent of sandalwood burned unpleasantly. Taehyung couldn’t help but feel like it’s the way he smells. He can’t smell bad, can he? Jimin always smells like fresh jasmine and sweet chamomile, so smelling like the elder is a privilege in Taehyung’s eyes.

“Hello, Taehyung,” Jeongguk’s eyes were driven towards Taehyung’s ears, “Your earrings are..nice.”

That compliment spiked Taehyung’s mood for the better, “You think so? Jimin gave it to me,”

He saw Jeon’s fist squeeze lightly, “Oh? That’s nice. I can get you bigger ones if you’d like. More expensive ones- diamonds, rubies, emeralds.”

Taehyung can tell Jeongguk was upset. Over what, he has no fucking clue. Jeongguk has more damn mood swings than his sister and himself. Combined. And what’s with the offer? Is Jeongguk trying to tell him that his earrings are ugly? Or is he trying to show Sunghee that he can provide for her family? “Uh, no. I’m good, Thank you, Jeongguk.”

Sunghee sensed the tension (smelt it too)  and laughed uncomfortably, “Well, uh- Join us for dinner? After you’re done freshening up?”

Taehyung took that as his cue to leave this painfully awkward encounter. He felt Jeongguk’s eyes follow him as he left.