Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Jimin had nothing. His hand was useless. But he could see in his TA's eyes that he very well might have been dealt a good hand, he just didn't know the proper plays to make in order to win. Regardless of the hand dealt, what mattered was how you used your given resources to get ahead.

Jimin could sense that his TA was clueless in how to take the upper hand over Jimin. Regardless, Jimin had a sly plan. 

"I'm all in," Jimin slid all his chips towards the middle of the table. TA Connor rolled his eyes in defeat.

"Fold,” Connor sighed.

Jimin flipped over his cards, giggling as he revealed he had had nothing the whole time. 

"Nothing! You had nothing this whole time?!" Connor ripped out his earbuds, mouth agape as he stared at Jimin with disbelief etched across his face. Jimin grinned smugly and passed Connor a chip.

"Put it towards a haircut, or whatever college kids buy with a few bucks these days," he teased, standing up to address his class. "Ok class, how did TA Connor lose so very, very badly?" Jimin questioned, not expecting an answer, and smiling a little as he watched his students begin to type on their computers or write in their notebooks. Teaching was his most favorite pastime for good reason. 

"Winning is something very valuable to us humans. So, our brains hold onto the ideal of winning no matter the consequences. Therefore when under pressure, we abandon all rational thought and make some really poor choices. Connor wasn't playing to win by using his logic or math, he was playing with his psychology and lack of control. He was playing to not lose," he explained concisely. He glanced up to the digital clock hanging up by the door and realized class was over.

“Alright, that is all for today. Don't forget, your essays on conditional probabilities are due next week,” he finished and his students quickly gathered their things while mingling with their peers.

Once his students had exited the lecture hall, Jimin began to pack up, when out of the corner of his eye, he spotted possibly the most handsome man in the whole world at the top of the stairs. 

mood: H.S.K.T. — Leehi and Wonstein

"Are you in the mood for a sweet treat?" He asked, his voice echoing through the lecture hall. Jimin quirked an eyebrow, swinging his bag over his shoulder then clambered up the stairs to meet the brunette. "Hello, gorgeous," Jimin's long-time boyfriend, Jeon Jeongguk, gave him a quick peck then pulled away, smiling.

"Hi, baby." Jimin replied, unable to help the glow lighting up his face. No matter the kind of day Jimin could be having, whether it be frustrating coworkers or uncooperative students, seeing Jeongguk would almost immediately make it a million times better. The two had met over a year ago at what was now their favorite cafe. Sitting next to each other at the coffee bar, they had both ordered the same dessert. Cliche, Jimin knows, but their shared love for dessert was all it took for their relationship to start, and after recently moving in together, Jimin was the happiest he had ever been, beaming every second he spent with Jeongguk.

"So, what could you possibly mean by sweet treat?" Jimin asked, knowing the answer already.

"It's a surprise," Jeongguk answered, his british accent making his response sound much more cheeky than it was meant to be. Jimin giggled and took Jeongguk's hand in his, interlacing their fingers. Jeongguk swept Jimin off his feet and out the door, leading him through the semi-crowded balls of the building.

The pair continued on their walk from NYU's economics building to Cake and Carry. It was all so simple and sweet and perfect. A rainy Thursday evening spent at a warm bakery in the best city in the world.

Everything with Jeongguk was simple. They lived happily together, rarely encountering any complications or road bumps in their relationship. It honestly made Jimin worry a little. It seemed in books he’d read or movies he’d seen there was always one big make or break moment in any relationship that would define the future of said relationship. So far, they hadn't had "the moment" yet, one Jimin certainly wasn’t ready for.

He already had a normal amount of stress from work and other relationships in his life. He was grateful for the moments of peace he shared with Jeongguk. Being with him was like a breath of fresh air.

Soon enough, the pair arrived at the cafe. Over the last year it had gone from a lesser known coffee shop to an instagramable hotspot with over the top desserts. Jimin was obviously happy one of favorite places in New York could stay open, but part of him wished it was still the small and quaint cafe he had always known.

Once they were seated, Jimin quickly ordered food for himself while Jeongguk assured him he didn’t need anything. Per usual Jeongguk scarfed down Jimin’s own dessert after it had been served, causing Jimin to sarcastically roll his eyes at his boyfriend.

“You can order your own, you know.”

“Not necessary,” Jeongguk replied, his mouth stuffed with the cakey pudding. “I only took a very small bite" Jeongguk reached over to the dessert in front of Jimi, which he didn't in fact take only one bite from, but multiple. 

"Babe," Jimin grimaced, scrunching his nose in annoyment. "You should've ordered your own if you're going to eat all mine."

"That is not what I'm doing at all."


Jimin rolled his eyes then flagged down a waiter from behind the bar.

"Right, could we get one more of these, please?" The waiter quickly nodded and went right to work.

"So, I was thinking,” Jeongguk set down his fork and wiped his mouth with a napkin, “what if we take an adventure out east?" Jeongguk turned around on his bar stool to face Jimin completely.

"You wanna get pork buns in the East Village, that's what it is, isn't it?" Jimin replied.

"No, no further east."

"Like... Queens?" Jimin asked, perplexed at Jeongguk’s proposition. It made Jeongguk laugh a bit. He couldn't help it, Jimin looked so incredibly cute when he was confused, with his eyebrows all furrowed and his lips pouty. 

"No, no, no let me finish baby," Jeongguk began, "I mean like Seoul. For spring break. Namjoon's getting married and I'm his best man. Besides, it's the perfect opportunity to meet my family. We've been dating for over a year and I think its time they met my beautiful boyfriend. Don’t you wanna see where I grew up and meet my family, my Halmeoni? And, you can meet up with that strange college roommate of yours.”

“Taehyung,” Jimin corrected, “he has been begging me to come visit him.”

“So it’s been decided. The universe has spoken and wants you over there,” Jeongguk took Jimin’s hands in his. “I want everyone in my home city to meet the brilliant Park Jimin.” Jimin blushed furiously at the compliment. Jeongguk always had a way of doing that,  making Jimin want to fall to his knees in delight, his face pink and covered by his hands.

As the pair continued to eat their desserts, a woman walked by and snapped a picture of them. Jimin only saw it out of the corner of his eye, but he didn’t pay much mind to it. It was New York, and most New Yorkers were pretty odd.

Unbeknownst to Jimin, however, the picture of him and Jeongguk enjoying their quaint little date was now being spread all over the internet by South Korea’s online elitists.

“So, anything interesting happen at work?” Jeongguk asked, entirely unaware of the chaos unfolding.

“Not really, but Lindsay did set off the fire alarm after she burnt whatever the fuck she eats for lunch everyday,” Jimin laughed to himself at the thought of the eccentric communications major and her lunch mishap.

“I’m sure that caused quite the commotion?” Jeongguk wondered.

“You’d think so, but all the professors were on lunch, so it was mostly staff that had to be ushered out of the building—,” Jimin began, but was cut off by a repeated vibration coming from Jeongguk’s pocket, their peaceful evening interrupted.

“Who is it?” Jimin asked, taking a sip of coffee.

“Just my mom, do you mind if I take this?” Jeongguk stood up abruptly and motioned to a quieter area in the cafe.

“Not at all, I’ll be here,” Jimin said. Jeongguk took his words to heart and stepped away to a quiet corner in the cafe. Jimin didn’t mean to, but he was always so nosy and just couldn’t help but eavesdrop. It was one of the many habits he had picked up from Taehyung and their countless gossip sessions over the years.

“Hey mum, everything alright?” Jeongguk said into the phone

“Does something need to be wrong for me to call?” His mother replied, although Jimin could barely make out her voice.

“Yeah, usually,” Jeongguk chuckled.

“Ha, ha, ha. Very funny. Are you bringing the boy you're seeing to Namjoon’s wedding?” 

“That’s odd, we were literally just talking about that. How could you know?” Jimin watched as Jeongguk glanced around the cafe, seemingly looking for someone.

“ Everybody knows.”

“Radio1 Asia.” Jeongguk made eye contact with the woman dressed head to toe in designer, phone in hand, trying to leave quickly. She was a renowned influencer overseas and was constantly tracking South Korea’s elite.

“The whole family is looking forward to having you home, especially halmeoni. And I made sure your room was ready… for you.”

“Thanks mum, but Jimin and I will be staying together.”

“That’s too bad. Well, I am having the entire house remodeled, and it’s not ready for guests. I’m sure Jimin will be much more comfortable staying somewhere else.”

“I’m sure we will have no problem finding a nice hotel or something along those lines.”

“Are you sure—?”

“Look mum, it’s been lovely to chat, but I need to get back to Jimin. He’s waiting for me.” 

Whatever was said next must have been said quickly because Jimin found himself no longer being able to overhear the call. However it ended couldn’t have been so bad, it just seemed like a typical conversation between a mother and son.

He promptly went back to eating the pudding dessert, making sure to leave Jeongguk a piece for when his boyfriend finally returned.

“Sorry about that,” Jeongguk said with haste as he took a seat.

“No worries,” Jimin leaned over and kissed Jeongguk’s cheek, “I saved you a piece.”

“You did, did you? That’s a very small piece at that, thank you very much.”

Jimin chuckled softly. 

“How is your mom, is everything okay?”

“Couldn’t be better,” Jeongguk replied, his mouth once again full with food. Jimin giggled again and wiped something off Jeongguk’s lip. 

“God, I love you,” Jimin said.

“I love you too,” Jeongguk planted a kiss on Jimin’s lips, lingering there for what seemed like forever.

~~~

“ Fuck ,” Jimin breathed into Jeongguk’s mouth as they stumbled into their apartment. It wasn’t like they had gone out to a club after their date, Jeongguk had just gotten a little touchy in the car ride home, which led to Jimin blowing him at the light, which now led them here: incredibly hot and horny for each other, tripping over their own legs and clothes as they tried to get back into their apartment.

mood: everyday - ariana grande  

Jeongguk swallowed Jimin’s next moan and kissed him with more passion than he previously did. Jimin toed off his shoes, kicking them to the side along with his jacket, Jeongguk doing the same.

As they made out fervently, Jeongguk hoisted Jimin up into his arms from under his thighs, causing the older to yelp and cling to Jeongguk.

“What are you doing, you goof,” Jimin giggled, pulling away for only a second to catch his breath and to admire the god-like person under him.

“Wanna treat you like royalty tonight,” Jeongguk replied, crashing his lips to Jimin’s once more, almost biting them, his hands tightly gripping Jimin’s ass as he blindly carried him to their bedroom, almost bumping into walls and doors several times

Jimin didn’t dare let go, only once he felt himself being laid on their bed did he free his grasp from Jeongguk. Jimin whined at the loss of contact, spreading his legs for Jeongguk, who quickly crawled onto the bed after him, caging him in.

“Gonna worship you, tonight,” Jeongguk leaned in and whispered breathlessly into Jimin’s ear, placing a kiss on the lobe afterwards. Jimin could only blush, a bright pink blooming on his cheeks. 

With every kiss Jeongguk planted on Jimin’s pliant skin, Jimin’s breathy moans grew louder and more frequent. While he loved being appreciated like this, he was getting impatient.

“Baby,” Jimin dug his fingers into Jeongguk’s hair, bringing him up to eye level from his spot above Jimin’s collarbone where he was sucking purple and blue bruises. 

“Need more,” Jimin explained, “please,” he added for good measure. Jeongguk only shook his head, much to Jimin’s dismay.

“Not done with this yet, just be patient my love,” Jeongguk reached up and pecked Jimin’s nose then went back to marking up his collarbone and neck. 

“I can’t show up to work like this!” Jimin tried.

“Wear a turtleneck. They're all I ever see you wearing, anyways.” Jeongguk brushed Jimin’s shirt up to his pecs and traced him with more kisses, all the way from the top of his ribs to below his navel. 

Jimin groaned, desperate for more.

“Can you at least undress me?” Jimin whined, getting fidgety under Jeongguk.

“Gladly,” Jeongguk smirked and sat back on his haunches, first pulling off his own top then Jimin’s. He then pulled off both Jimin’s pants and underwear in one clean swipe. 

Paying no mind to the fact Jeongguk was still wearing pants, Jimin pulled him in for another kiss, although it was more mixed moans and lip biting. Jimin bowed his head off the bed as Jeongguk dragged his hand down his front and brushed over his hard, seething red cock.

“Jeonggukie…” Jimin whined.

“You gonna beg me tonight?” Jeongguk teased. 

“Please touch me.”

“I am though?” Jeongguk smirked and laughed a bit, returning to littering Jimin’s entire body with kisses and love bites.

“Don’t be like that. You know what I mean.”

“I’m not so sure I do?”

Jimin blew out a loud breath, wrapping his arms around Jeongguk’s neck. 

“Touch my cock,” he whispered. Jeongguk raised an eyebrow. “…please,” Jimin breathed.

“See? That wasn’t so hard,” Jeongguk reached down and took Jimin’s cock in his hand. Jimin cried at the contact. Sure he could jerk himself off, but Jeongguk’s hand was always much better. It was double the size of Jimin’s and wrapped around it twice, practically.

Jeongguk began to stroke Jimin, matching his rhythm with the pattern of Jimin’s breathy moans and whimpers. Jimin arched his back, leaning up into Jeongguk’s body, wanting more, needing more.

“Not enough,” he bit his lip, “ please , I need more, n—need more.” Jeongguk crawled lower on the bed, his mouth now hovering about Jimin’s cock. He continued to jack Jimin off while at the same time, planting kisses on Jimin’s inner thighs. 

“Baby, p—please ,” Jimin writhed on the bed above him.

“I told you I was gonna worship you tonight,” Jeongguk glanced up at Jimin, his eyes hooded and pupils blown. Jimin covered his face, crossing his arms over his eyes in embarrassment. “Don’t cover your eyes baby, I love seeing how good I make you feel.” Jimin blushed even more, but this time instead of it being just his face, his whole body erupted in red. 

Without warning, Jeongguk stopped his stroking and placed his hand at the base of Jimin’s cock. He then leaned down and took Jimin fully in his mouth. 

“ Shit!! ” Jimin cried out, his words being replaced by the pliant moans that escaped his lips.

While some men might feel put down by their dick being so small it fit into someone’s mouth in one go, but Jimin? He reveled in it. He loved it when Jeongguk sucked him off.  It was one of his favorite feelings.

Jimin tied his hand into Jeongguk’s hair and pulled him off for a second just for Jeongguk to kiss the tip, lick around it, then take Jimin whole again, bobbing his head up and down around his cock.

“J—Jeongguk!” Jimin cried, his voice breaking. 

“Hmm?” Jeongguk once again popped off, but this time he rested on his elbows and looked up at Jimin, his lips swollen and red, sticky with spit and precum. Jimin groaned out loud at the sight. He thought he might almost come from the way Jeongguk was looking up at him.

“I’m gonna come if you keep doing that,” Jimin said sheepishly.

“We wouldn’t want that now, would we?” Jeongguk stood up off the bed and finally shrugged off the rest of his clothes, his hard, pulsing cock springing out. He searched around in the bedside table drawer for a bottle lube, then upon finding one, he chucked it onto the bed next to Jimin and returned to hovering over him. “You gonna take my cock tonight, baby?” 

Jimin nodded vigorously, gripping under his thighs and pulling his knees up to his chest. 

Jeongguk sat on his legs again, positioning himself in front of Jimin and squirted a generous amount of lube onto his fingers. He definitely didn’t need this much, but Jimin liked it wet and messy. 

Jeongguk inserted the first finger without warning and Jimin threw his head back on the bed, inaudible moans leaving his lips as Jeongguk began to finger him.

Soon enough one finger became two and Jeongguk had finally found Jimin’s prostate. He had the older letting out choked sobs every time he hit it right on.

Jimin, barely having the ability to speak, grabbed Jeongguk by the neck and pulled him up to eye level. “I need you. Need more ,” he pleaded.

“Baby, you’re not stretched out enough,” Jeongguk tried, adding a third finger as he spoke. 

“I don’t wanna c—come like— fuck —like this,” Jimin bit down on his tongue to suppress his moans, which were becoming more and more frequent.

“How do you wanna come then?” Jeongguk asked, still continually pumping his fingers in and out of Jimin’s hole.

“With you inside, deep inside,” Jimin decided. He reached down and yanked Jeongguk’s fingers out, the wet squelch it made being so lewd Jimin felt even more pre-cum drip down his cock. 

Without warning once again, Jeongguk grabbed Jimin by the hips and flipped him onto his stomach, pulling his ass up. Jeongguk kneeled in front of Jimin’s hole and landed a loud smack on his ass. Jimin shrieked but immediately pushed his ass back, begging for more.

Jeongguk grinned smugly and decided to give Jimin another, landing spank after spank on his cheeks until they burned a bright red. Before pushing in, Jeongguk leaned over Jimin’s back and trailed kisses from the tip of his spine to the bottom. The wait was agonizing for Jimin, who’s whines of desperation grew louder the longer it took Jeongguk to finish up with the foreplay.

“You ready for me, baby?” Jeongguk finally said, his cock all lubed up and pressing at Jimin’s entrance.

Jimin nodded under him and looked back to see the look on Jeongguk’s face. He gulped and gripped the sheets next to him.

Jeongguk took the base of his cock, aligned it with Jimin’s hole, and slowly pushed in, just letting the head of his cock into Jimin’s ass. 

“Oh, Jeonggukie , hurry u—up,” Jimin hiccuped, seemingly choking on his own spit. 

“I told you already, I’m gonna worship you tonight and take my time,” Jeongguk explained. Jimin whimpered into the bed and pressed his ass back on Jeongguk’s cock, trying to suck him in.

Inch by inch, Jeongguk pushed into Jimin and after what seemed like an eternity, he bottomed out. Jimin let out a sigh of relief which then turned into cries of curse words and Jeongguk’s name. 

“S—so deep ,” Jimin moaned.

“You asked for that, baby,” Jeongguk teased, then pulled almost the entire way out before snapping back in. He repeated that multiple times before dissolving into slow, long thrusts that had Jimin sobbing underneath Jeongguk, begging for more.

With every brush on his prostate, Jimin swore he saw stars. His whole body had a glistening thin layer of sweat, and his skin was blooming with hickies and bruises. Jimin loved it though. He relished in feeling like this: so hot and bothered he could barely take it, reminders of the feeling lasting for days.

One particular hard thrust sent Jimin flying up on the bed, to which Jeongguk only yanked him back onto his cock and started giving Jimin hard, rough thrusts. 

“Ah, ah, ah… ” Jimin chanted a series of them in rhythm with Jeongguk’s thrusting, who remained pretty silent apart from his low groans that made Jimin curl his toes.

“So perfect f—for me,” Jeongguk said lowly, his pace faltering. He was close. And so was Jimin.

“I—I’m gonna come!” Jimin yelled. 

“Oh yeah?” Jeongguk replied, “come for me, baby.” And that was all it took before Jimin shot out thick white stripes of cum onto the sheets, his body spasming from the intense orgasm, before he slumped forward, Jeongguk still fucking him thoroughly.

The feeling of Jimin clenching around him sent Jeongguk just over the edge, and before long he was spilling into Jimin, the overflow leaking out the sides and down Jimin’s thighs.

He too slumped forward on top of Jimin, who seemed to already be sleeping, too fucked out to care he was covering in sweat and cum.

After allowing himself to go soft inside Jimin, Jeongguk pulled out, making sure to be careful.

“Mmm,” Jimin groaned, wincing as he felt Jeongguk pull out. 

“Come on, love,” Jeongguk turned Jimin over and picked him up, carrying him bridal style, “you’ll be pissed off at me tomorrow if I don’t clean you up.”

Jimin only hummed in agreement and allowed himself to be carried to their bathroom. Jeongguk gently set him on the toilet and looked to be running a bath for the two of them. Jimin felt so fucked out and sleepy he truly didn’t care. He just wanted to be in Jeongguk’s arms.

“Can you stand?” Jeongguk asked, genuine concern in his voice.

“Yes, I can stand,” Jimin rolled his eyes cheekily, blew out a deep breath, then was helped to his feet by Jeongguk. “Quit acting so smug.”

“I wasn’t being smug,” Jeongguk chuckled then smirked.

As he was leading him to the bath, Jimin gasped when he caught a glimpse of himself in the mirror. Red splotches that were already bruising and bite marks littered the majority of his body. It was like Jeongguk was trying to cover every inch of his bare skin. Knowing him it was probably his only goal of the night, other than making Jimin finish.

“I have to work tomorrow!” Jimin exclaimed, surveying the damage.

“Sorry, baby, I just couldn’t help myself. You’re so tasty,” Jeongguk hugged Jimin from behind and intertwined his fingers in Jimin’s then led him to the almost full bathtub. 

Jimin stepped in first, Jeongguk following, sitting directly behind him and wrapping his legs around Jimin’s little body. 

Jimin sat with his knees hugged close to his chest, as opposed to leaning against Jeongguk who had his arms spread out behind him.

“Hey, you okay?” Jeongguk placed his head on Jimin’s shoulder and kissed his ear.

“Yeah, ‘m fine.”

Jeongguk started massaging Jimin’s neck which caused him to relax immediately into his touch. 

“Tell me what’s on your mind, please.”

“I don’t know. It’s silly…” Jimin began.

“Nothing that comes out of your mouth is silly, unless of course you intended for it to be silly.” Jimin giggled at Jeongguk’s words.

“I guess I’m just feeling kind of nervous about meeting your family.”

“There’s nothing to worry about, my love. I promise,” Jeongguk said.

“Are you sure?”

“Of course! You are perfect boyfriend material and anyone would have to be blind not to see that.”

“Even your family?”

“Even my family.”

“Okay, but how do I know for sure?”

“Does it really matter that much?”

“Obviously. I want to make a good impression, Jeongguk and you’re giving me nothing!”

“Are we arguing about this now?” Jeongguk rubbed his eyes and tilted his head back.

“So asking questions is arguing?” Jimin retorted.

“That’s not what I said.”

“Well, that’s all I did, and you asked if I was arguing with you!”

“Why has this become such a big deal?” Jeongguk pondered.

“It’s not.”

“Sure looks like it.”

“You know what? I’m done with this conversation.” Jimin stepped out of the bathtub with haste and slipped on his robe after taking it off the hook. After, he  stalked out of the bathroom and continued to the kitchen to pour himself a cup of tea.

“Baby!” Jeongguk called after him, quickly following him out of the tub, a towel lazily wrapped around his waist. “What is going on with you?” He asked once he found Jimin in the kitchen nursing a steaming cup of tea.

“What’s going on with me?” Jimin mimicked, “You’re keeping things from me and acting… shady!. Whatever is up with your family I’d hope you’d know it doesn’t matter. Whoever’s family to you is family to me. That’s how this works. I love you for everything you are, Jeongguk, and I’ll love your family just the same, good and bad,” Jimin explained, exasperated after his confession. 

He loved Jeongguk unconditionally, uncontrollably, without thought. He loved him as if it were involuntary, as simple and sweet as breathing.

“I cannot believe that I am fighting with you about this!” Jimin finished.

“I thought you said we weren’t arguing?”

“Don’t—.”

“Jimin,” Jeongguk turned the brunette around and held his chin in his hands, pointing his head in his direction, “I know you wouldn’t care who my family is and what they come from. You give everyone a chance, it’s in your soul. And I promise I will tell you about them.”

“Will?” 

“I just figured it’d be a good conversation for the long plane ride.”

“That’s gotta be the dumbest thing that’s come out of your mouth tonight.”

Jeongguk was wonderful and thoughtful, but, god, was he dumb.

“Babe, come on, this is silly.”

“I hope the couch is comfortable tonight,” Jimin stated, then sauntered off to the bedroom to finally sleep. Alone he slipped of his robe, put on his pajamas and crawled into bed. However instead of sleep coming to him, the only thing plaguing his mind was his fight with Jeongguk.

~~~

Jimin stood in front of a vintage mirror in some cute boutique his mom had found, towards the east of Greenwich Village, holding a black and white blazer set up against himself.

“Hey mom, what do you think about this one?” His mom, Park Mijeong sauntered up behind him, peeking over his shoulder.

“Ah, No! No! No! You absolutely cannot wear that to meet Jeongguk’s Halmeoni! Black and white is for Korean funerals,” she replaced the blazer with a two piece, pale yellow set, “now this, this symbolizes good fortune and fertility,” she reassured.

“Right,” Jimin began, hanging the clothes back up, “because, as a man who is unable to have children biologically, I was really going for that lucky baby-maker vibe.”

“Fertile doesn’t just mean you can have quintuplets with ease, it also shows richness and abundance,” Mijeong countered.

“Mom, I am the opposite of rich.”

“Hey! You’re the one who asked for my help picking out something to wear to meet Jeongguk’s family,” Mijeong shrugged.

“It’s only because I know nothing about them. Everytime I bring them up, Jeongguk changes the subject. Even last night we got into a huge argument about it. It was so stupid!” Jimin explained.

“Maybe he’s embarrassed. His parents could be poor and he has to send them money, that’s what all good children do for their overseas parents.” 

Jimin chuckled. He supposed his mom could be right. Jeongguk was the exact kind of son to send his own earnings back to his family.

 “Don’t worry about it, sweetheart. You’re going to have a wonderful time and you’ve always wanted to go to Asia. Besides if all goes well in Seoul, you might just come back with one of these,” Mijeong held up a ring, far too tacky for Jimin’s taste, grinning a bit.

“Mom, stop,” Jimin said, feeling flustered all of a sudden, “Jeongguk and I haven’t even talked about that…”

“Really? You’ve been dating for so long it feels like.” 

“We’re not even at two years,” he replied.

“Yes, but you’re not in highschool anymore. You are well into adulthood and most people at this age begin to talk about the future and settling down,” she explained.

“Since when were you a relationship expert, single woman?” Jimin joked, pulling out a few more options from the rack.

“Wisdom comes from age, not experience,” Mijeong laughed, Jimin joining her in glee.

“That is definitely not true… I mean, his parents can’t not like me, right?” he continued.

Mijeong flashed Jimin a sour look then quickly turned away. “What was that look? I saw that, mom,” Jimin questioned. 

“Nothing,” she blew out a breath, hanging something back up on the rack, “it’s just, Jeongguk bringing someone home to meet his parents can mean a lot to these overseas families. I— they’re different from us.”

“How can they be different? I’m Korean, they’re Korean. I’m so Korean I’m an economics professor whose best friend is his mom,” Jimin said jokingly.

“Yes, but you grew up here,” Mijeong gestured to the area around them, meaning the city. “You look Korean and speak Korean, but here,” she pointed to his forehead, “and here,” she then pointed to his heart, “you’re different.” 

Jimin frowned. Perhaps Mijeong was right. But that wasn’t going to stop Jimin from trying to get the Jeons to like him. 

“But, wearing a lucky color will make a good first impression,” Mijeong flashed the yellow set in front of Jimin, causing him to only roll his eyes.

~~~

The airport was bustling. The taxi Jimin and Jeongguk had rode in from their apartment to JFK had barely been able to find a spot to pull into so they could get out and empty their things out of the trunk.

It had been a hectic week filled with hotel booking and essay grading and Jimin was finally free . Never in his life had he had such a stressful pre-spring break week. Last year, he and Jeongguk had only been dating a few months so the pair drove to upstate New York to visit some of Jimin’s friends. A simple and quick trip.

And usually Jimin would take spring break to grade work and get a head start on lesson plans for the last few weeks of school after break. Of course, this time, he had to plan ahead and take care of a few things in advance, like putting grades in and writing the final exam. Jimin didn’t mind, of course. He was thrilled to be going on a vacation with Jeongguk, regardless of his lingering anxieties. 

“Okay, here’s our game plan, babe,” Jimin began as he got out of the cab, walking around it to meet Jeongguk who was unloading their luggage. “Check our bags, get through security, find our gate, and then we can eat one of the tupperware meals my mom packed for us.” 

Jeongguk grinned and nodded, however, it didn’t seem like he listened to what Jimin had just said.Jimin was about to reach for his own bag to wheel it inside when he was cut off by a gloved hand who grabbed it instead. 

“W—what?” Jimin stuttered under his breath. He looked up to Jeongguk in confusion, looking for some answers when all he got was Jeongguk’s classic cheesy smile.

“Good afternoon, Mr. Jeon and Mr. Park. We’ll take your bags and get you checked into first class,” a woman dressed like a flight attendant came up behind them. 

Jimin shook his head, “oh no, there’s been some confusion. We’re definitely not first class. We are economy people,” he tried to explain. The flight attendant outright ignored him and began walking towards the entrance to the airport. 

“This way, please.”

Jeongguk started to tail her, almost leaving Jimin and their bags in the dust until he turned around and motioned for Jimin to follow too. “Just go with it,” he said reassuringly.

“But what about—,” Jimin gestured to their luggage and Jeongguk tugged him a little by the arm.

“They’ll be fine, come on,” he reached for Jimin’s hand which was gripped tightly around the tupperware Jimin held tightly to his chest. Jimin allowed Jeongguk to lead him away, still feeling very unsure of the entire situation. Where did Jeongguk get this kind of money? Jimin supposed he hadn’t been the one to book the flight tickets since Jeongguk had assured him it had already been taken care of. But this is not what Jimin was expecting.

The flight attendant who was seemingly leading them towards their flight took off swiftly in the opposite direction Jimin was expecting her to take. Jimin and Jeongguk followed as she brought them to a very exclusive looking check in desk and then put them in a VIP security line while she waited for them on the other side.

“Jeongguk, we do not belong here,” Jimin whispered to Jeongguk as they neared the front of the line.

“Everything is alright, my love. I’m serious,” Jeongguk explained. Jimin had been hoping for more of a detailed answer but figured this was all he would be getting for now. That seemed to be the way it was recently. Since their argument a few weeks back, Jimin noticed Jeongguk never told him the complete truth when it came to their upcoming trip.

They quickly passed through security and again were led by the flight attendant all the way to the international terminal but instead of sitting with the rest of the passengers in the waiting room, they were immediately brought on the plane.

After they stepped onto the plane, another flight attendant pulled open a purple and gold curtain that revealed an entire bar with seating. It reminded Jimin of a 5-star  hotel he’d seen in movies. Another reminder that he and Jeongguk did not have the money to book tickets like this.

“Welcome aboard Mr. Jeon, Mr. Park. Here’s the way to your private suite,” she led them past the bar (where a bartender handed them each a flute of champagne) and to their “suite”.

Jimin was blown away upon seeing the door to it open. It had tan, leather armchairs that seemed to have controls, with lots of storage and shelving around them, two flat screen televisions, and even a small closet space.

“Thank you very much,” Jeongguk said as he sat down and got comfy. Jimin nodded to the flight attendant and smiled.

“You’re very welcome, after takeoff would you like to enjoy the lounge chairs or should we convert your sweet into a bedroom?” The flight attendant asked.

“Uh, we’re good, thank you,” Jimin clobbered the tupperware to Jeongguk to keep him from saying anything else. Once the flight attendant left, Jimin set his still full glass of champagne down and turned to Jeongguk, biting his lip with worry

“Jeongguk, we can’t afford this,” he emphasized.Jeongguk opened his mouth to speak before Jimin cut him off again. 

“These pajamas are nicer than any of my real clothes,” Jimin giggled, clutching a pair of purple silk pajamas close to him. “Really though,” Jimin sat in the other chair and turned to face Jeongguk, “where did you get the money for this?”

“My family has business with the airline. The tickets? They’re a perk,” Jeongguk picked up an information pamphlet. 

Jimin knew there was more to the story. Jeongguk had a knack for unveiling pieces of the puzzle bit by bit. 

“What kind of business?” He pursued.

Jeongguk clicked his tongue. “Real estate, investment, nothing too interesting. Dim sum, we should order some of that.”

“Don’t change the subject. So your family is like… rich?” Jimin took a sip of champagne.

“We—we’re comfortable.”

“Oh, ho, ho. That is exactly what a super rich person would say,” Jimin replied. Jeongguk gulped. “Obviously, it’s not a big deal. I just find it very weird that I had no idea and that you avoided it for weeks?” Jimin said, shifting in his seat uncomfortably. “I mean, you have a Jamba Juice card, and you use my Netflix password. You play basketball at that Y that kinda smells with a bunch of guys twenty years older than you.”

“I really like that place and those guys thank you very much—,” Jeongguk interjected before Jimin could continue. “And yes, my family does have money. But, I’ve always thought of it as theirs. Not mine.”

“I get that, but why didn’t you tell me until now? For weeks I’ve been nervous and anxious to meet them. I could barely look forward to the trip” 

“I’m truly sorry, I am,” Jeongguk said.

“Are you ashamed of them or something?”

“Definitely or something,” Jeongguk chuckled.Jimin reached across the center console, taking Jeongguk’s free hand is his.

“I’m just going all the way to Seoul to meet them. Kinda feel like I should know what I’m getting myself into?”

mood: Super Rich Kids — Frank Ocean, Earl Sweatshirt

“Well, my family is much like anyone else’s. There’s the half you love and respect. And then there is the other half…”

“Which half am I meeting?” Jimin took another sip of champagne, pursing his lips.

“Once we get there, you’ll understand why I avoided talking about them. There’s my cousin Jihun, based in Taiwan and works in movies as a director or something. He’s dating Kitty Lee, an actress of the sort,” Jeongguk began.

TAIWAN

“And cut!” Another director sitting opposite Jihun called out. The bells rang and the fake fire turned off. Jihun jumped out of his director’s chair and hurried towards Kitty Lee, the leading actress of the film and his latest flame. 

“Kitty,” he clapped, gesturing for her to come towards him. She followed, jumping into his arms.

“Jihun!” she said breathlessly, “did you like it? I was feeling very… very emotional,” she took his hand and put it over her heart, coincidentally being her boob, “can you feel it?”

“Oh, I can feel it, and all of you. And all of me,” Jihun smirked before crashing his lips into Kitty’s.

Two other producers sat farther back and watched in disgust. “She’s terrible. Can’t we get someone else?”

“Jihun is financing the whole movie. You tell him his girlfriend sucks.”

“Okay, he doesn’t sound too bad,” Jimin said, trying to be positive.

“You’ll see for yourself,” Jeongguk chuckled.

“How about your cousin Junghee? You never talk about him?”

“Well, Junhee is a big business guy who lives in Hong Kong, he’s married and has three kids. He’s a real family man.”

HONG KONG

Junhee, his wife Taeyeon, and their three sons all stood or sat around their couch, posing perfectly for the photographer.

“You know if you move it will look more natural,” the photographer explained.

“No, this way is good. It gets all of our optimal angles,” Junhee replied defensively.

The photographer shrugged and clicked one last photo. “Alright, then, we are done.”

The photographer began wrapping up and Junhee and Taeyeon scurried over to him. “Thank you so much, Jaehyun, it is an honor to be photographed by you,” Junhee shook Jaehyun’s hand.

“My pleasure, people will love it in the next Hong Kong Vogue,” Jaehyun responded, Junhee flashed him a bogus smile then shuffled over to Taeyeon.

“He’s kidding right? Hong Kong Vogue?” Junhee uttered under his breath for only Taeyeon to hear. “If you had worn the Valentino dress like I’d told you, we’d be in American Vogue, or even British Vogue.”

“You can wear that dress to hell, Junhee,” Taeyeon cursed, then walked away from Junhee.

Jeongguk grimaced at the thought of Junhee. He was one of the biggest assholes he had ever known. 

“He’s that bad?” Jimin pondered, taking in Jeongguk’s reaction.

“He’s awful. But don’t tell him I said that, I don’t want to get sued.” Jeongguk placed his glass down and glanced out the window.

“I know you have more cousins, they can’t all be that bad,” Jimin said, trying his best to get more out of Jeongguk.

“Of course not,” Jeongguk cleared his throat, “there’s Hoseok. Works in fashion and is the funniest person. He lives in Milan for the majority of the year.”

MILAN

“Alright, my dear,” Hoseok finished touching up the model’s hair and spun her around, “go, go, channel that inner beast of yours and wow the camera!” Hoseok patted her on the back and sent her off on her way. 

Pieces from his own collection were being worn for a GQ shoot in Milan. Hoseok had had his collections modeled before, but this one he was the most excited for. It was his favorite to date and he wanted it to be huge. 

“Let’s get this rolling!” He announced to the crew who immediately got to work. Cameramen were everywhere along with set designers, make—up artists, and stylists. Hoseok sure loved a good photoshoot.

“Hoseok sounds lovely, I can’t wait to meet him,” Jimin giggled, Jeongguk following along. 

“He truly is. I haven’t seen him in years, but it will be really nice to catch up once I do.”

“Anybody else?”

“Seokjin.”

“Ah,” Jimin grinned at the sound of the familiar name, “I remember Seokjin. He’s like who little me wanted to be when I grew up.”

Seokjin, even with his busy schedule, had flown out to New York to visit Jeongguk and meet Jimin about six months ago. Jimin couldn’t remember many times he had had that much fun. 

“Seokjin is awesome. We grew up together in my Halmeoni’s house. And he is probably one of the only ones I’m actually close with.

“He graduated top of his class at Oxford, has started multiple charities, and is a fashion icon, plus, Seokjin has the biggest heart of any of my family members.”

LONDON

Seokjin was escorted into the jewelers, passing by quite a few wide eyes and gaped mouths. He sauntered down the walkway to get to the private room, where a seller waited for him. But not without making a pit stop first.

“Hi, I’m Seokjin, what’s your name,” he knelt down in front of a girl who seemed to be six or seven. She was attempting to show her mom her bunny, but was failing. 

“Chloe,” she replied, clutching her stuffed toy close to her chest.

“And who is this,” he motioned to her bunny.

“Bun—bun.”

“Well,” he reached out and touched the bow Bun—Bun was wearing, “I think Bun—Bun looks very dashing with his bow. You have a good eye,” he smiled then stood up, making his way to the private room.

“Mr. Kim, right this way please.”

The doors were opened for Seokjin and inside sat a seller who seemed to have a collection of jewels, waiting to be shown to him.

After being served a cup of tea and allowing his eyes to wander, Seokjin began to look over the pieces.

“I just got these all in. Brand new from Antwerp,” the jeweler explained. Not seeing much he liked, Seokjin took another sip of tea before spotting the most divine earrings he’d ever seen.

“What are those?” 

“Those are rare, pigeon blood—red rubies. Set with sapphires and emeralds.” They were brought out of their case and placed in front of Seokjin.

Seokjin sighs in amazement. “How much?”

“Having one of my pieces be worn by you is better publicity than money can buy,” the jeweler began, “I’ll let them go at, let’s say, 1.2 million.” Seokjin smiled and nodded.

“Sounds like it will be quite the family reunion.”

“You have no idea.”

Chapter Text

The evening sunset quickly turned dark as night fell and a wave of stars washed over the ocean beneath them. The flight attendants promptly dimmed the cabin lights and converted each suite into a bedroom. Both Jimin and Jeongguk changed out of their dirty travel day clothes into something a little cozier: the soft, purple silk pajamas that came with the first class airplane ticket. Jimin loved that they were cute and matching.

“Babe?” Jimin said as he entered the suite, coming from the bathroom.

“Hmm?” Jeongguk quickly flicked his eyes up to Jimin before putting his attention back on whatever was displayed on his phone.

“Can you get me a pair of pajamas like these?”

“Anything you want, love,” Jeongguk was clearly unfocused and not listening.

“Yeah, yeah not listening,” Jimin giggled before laying on his armchair-turned-bed, pulling the covers over top of his body.

“Sorry baby, I am now. I just needed to read something real quick,” Jeongguk finally put away his phone and turned his body and attention towards Jimin. “You look cozy.” 

Jimin grinned, his eyes glowing despite the darkness of the plane.

“What was so important on your phone?” Jimin pondered, resting his head on his palm.

“Ah, nothing,” Jeongguk shook his head.

“It doesn’t seem like nothing?”

“Really, Jimin, everything is fine.” The use of his first name instead of one of Jeongguk’s many pet names for Jimin startled him a bit.

“Okay…” the two fell into silence as Jeongguk quickly fell asleep, his snores an obvious tell, It was comfortable, like how any silence with them would be, at first,  but soon Jimin became restless. He hated the quiet and not having his brain kept busy. 

Jimin had no clue where they were, probably somewhere over the Pacific Ocean when it was after midnight and still, Jimin could not sleep. He hated how he left his last conversation with Jeongguk, but his boyfriend was presumably sleeping and Jimin didn’t want to disturb his peace. He knew how busy Jeongguk had been with planning the trip and making arrangements for his job.

So, Jimin was left alone with only his thoughts, his worries, and his crazy what if’s… He couldn’t help but feel jittery at the thought of meeting Jeongguk’s entire family. Not only did he feel the need to impress, he also (until recently) had no idea what he was walking into. Even then, he only understood that Jeongguk came from a large family of wealthy investors, or something. Knowing that now only added to Jimin’s previous anxieties.

He shut his eyes and tried to drift off, hoping to sleep off his nerves, allowing the white noise played by the cabin to calm his nerves but alas, he failed. 

One of Jimin’s worst fears was being seen in a bad light. He hated being disliked and always strived to be perfect. If Jimin wasn’t right in the Jeon family’s eyes, then maybe he wasn’t right for Jeongguk.

“Jeonggukie?” Jimin rolled over on his side and tapped Jeongguk’s shoulder. Soon enough, the still sleeping figure moved and Jimin was quickly eye-to-eye with Jeongguk’s deep, dark eyes instead of his back.

“Yes, my love?” Jeongguk mumbled, blinking his eyes open.

“I can’t sleep. Tell me more about your family,” Jimin requested, hoping some stories would bore him to sleep.

“There’s not much else to tell,” Jeongguk answered.

“Why are you always so dodgy when I bring them up?” Jimin pouted his lips.

“I’m not trying to be dodgy. They’re just not that interesting.”

“Well, that’s good, bore me to sleep,” Jimin smiled up at Jeongguk.

“My father has a big investment and real estate company. He owns a lot of properties and what not. My mum is pretty much stay at home, as are my other aunties. And I already told you about all my cousins,” Jeongguk continued to rattle off things about his family, Jimin was only half listening, of course. He was much more enamored with just watching Jeongguk.

“So if you have all that family there, why are we staying in a hotel?” Jimin asked after Jeongguk had stopped speaking, “aren’t all good sons supposed to stay with their parents?” 

“Well, A. I'm not that good of a son. And B. I just want you to myself, just for a bit before all the craziness begins.” Jeongguk laid on his side, an arm draped over Jimin, gently rubbing his back. “That okay with you?”

“That’s okay with me,” Jimin giggled before Jeongguk pulled him into a kiss. Jeongguk pulled himself on top of Jimin, his tongue softly pressing at Jimin’s still closed lips, to  opened without a fight.

The two languidly made out in the cramped space of their suite, Jimin growing increasingly hard under Jeongguk’s weight, who seemed to be having the same issue.

mood: earned it - the weeknd 

“ Jeonggukie ,” Jimin pushed his hips up into Jeongguk’s crotch who continued to kiss him slowly, so meaningful with every peck he placed on his lips. 

“Yes?” Jeongguk pulled away for a second, resting for a moment. Jimin was painted in moonlight, his eyes gleaming underneath. 

“Need to be touched,” Jimin whispered, a gasp coming directly after.

Jeongguk smirked and pushed up Jimin’s silk pajama shirt, pressing a kiss to his chest, then another before dipping his hand into Jimin’s pants. Jimin shuddered under Jeongguk as he felt his boyfriend’s calloused hands brush over his tip and then down his length.

“Baby, you’re practically dripping ,” Jeongguk whispered, quiet enough for plane patrons to miss it, but loud enough for just  Jimin’s ears to hear. Jeongguk bit his lip and stroked Jimin slowly a few times. He only whimpered, words seemingly failing to tumble past his tongue and out his mouth. 

Jeongguk continued his strokes while simultaneously littering love bites on Jimin’s stomach, the color of them showing up a deep purple in the darkness of the plane. Jimin arched into Jeongguk, feeling so desperate to come.

“B—baby,” Jimin’s breath hitched in his throat as Jeongguk thumbed over his slit.

“Yes, my dear?” 

Jimin moaned at the pet name then slapped his hand over his mouth, shocked at how loud he was being in the presence of countless other sleeping strangers. This was definitely not first-class behavior. Jeongguk brought his hand up to Jimin's mouth and pulled down his hand. “Let me hear you.” Jimin swallowed. 

“Want you t—to feel good too…” He ran his hands along the waistband of Jeongguk’s pants, wishing he could strip him bare.

“You need help with this?” Jeongguk asked, although he already knew the answer. Jimin nodded and with the extra hand, he finally pushed Jeongguk’s pants down to his mid thigh, his cock springing out, hard and leaking, almost as much as Jimin’s. He groaned at the sight.

Jeongguk took that as a sign to wrap his hand around both him and Jimin and began stroking at a fast pace, every so often running over the tip then all the way back down to repeat the process until he was pulling the orgasm out of Jimin.

Jimin only saw white as he came, his body jolting and endless broken, breathy moans spilling from his lips. He bit his tongue to suppress any louder ones and felt his legs shake.

Jeongguk soon followed, the mere sight of Jimin coming underneath him being almost just enough to bring him to his orgasm. He fell to the right of Jimin, the two of them breathless.

Jimin, eyes dazed out and cheeks red, tilted his neck to look up at Jeongguk and that was all it took for Jeongguk to bring him into a sweet, serene kiss. 

“What if I took you into the bathroom, bent you over the sink, and fucked you ‘till you cried?” Jeongguk said suddenly, his breath still hot and staggered. 

“Someone’s still feeling horny,” Jimin teased and pulled away from Jeongguk, resting his head on his pillow with his eyes still focused on Jeongguk. 

“Says you,” Jeongguk said. Before he could say anything else, something devious flashed across Jimin’s eyes. He raised an eyebrow.

Licking his lips, Jimin sat up on his elbows and whispered into Jeongguk’s ear, “give me five minutes.” He sat up and exited the suite, presumably heading for the bathroom.

And after exactly five minutes of counting down the seconds on his watch, the image of Jimin’s devilish eyes burned into his brain, Jeongguk followed the older into the small plane bathroom, making sure to lock the door behind him.

“Come here, baby,” Jeongguk grabbed Jimin by the chin and crashed his lips onto his. Jimin had never wanted Jeongguk more than any moment before. He felt Jeongguk wrap his arms around his waist and lifted him onto the counter, Jimin’s legs circling his torso. They kissed messily, almost like they were exchanging hot moans and spit as opposed to kissing. Jimin gripped the back of Jeongguk’s hair with one hand, while leaning on the other due to Jeongguk’s body weight slowly pushing him down.

After some time, Jeongguk picked Jimin up again, put his feet on the ground, although he had to stand on his tiptoes, and spun him around, running his hands down his silky clothed back.

He brushed the shirt up and Jimin’s pants and underwear off, the front sticky and gleaming with cum. Jimin, now bare from the waist below, leaned over the sink without being told and presented his ass to Jeongguk,  like it was a present wrapped with a big, red bow.

Jeongguk took out his cock and pushed into Jimin with ease, his hole loose and prepped. Then he began to relentlessly fuck him like it was the last time he would. 

~~~

Sated and sleepy, Jimin nearly missed breakfast. He woke to Jeongguk giving a flight attendant both his and Jimin’s breakfast order. Scallion pancakes and banana milk for Jeongguk and a kimchi brown rice breakfast bowl with an iced americano for Jimin. 

“—Thank you so much,” was all Jimin heard from Jeongguk as he blinked his eyes open, the sun glaring in through the plane window. It practically blinded him. He groaned as he sat up and made eye contact with Jeongguk.

“Baby! You’re awake, thank god . I was afraid they wouldn’t give you breakfast if you were still sleeping,” Jeongguk exclaimed, kissing Jimin on the cheek.

“Are we there yet?” Jimin stretched and rubbed at his eyes. Even though he slept well, he still felt sore from being curled up in a hall half the night. 

“I think they’re giving us breakfast and then we’ll be landing.” Jimin nodded and searched around for his glasses. 

“Do you know where my toothbrush is?” Jimin could almost smell how nasty his breath was. He was desperate for that minty fresh scent. Jeongguk handed Jimin his toiletry bag from the other side of the suite as well as a change of clothes and Jimin padded down to the bathroom, hoping he wouldn’t have to wait long.

When he arrived back to suite, nearly twenty minutes later, breakfast was being served. Jimin, now wearing a white, button down blouse with black jeans as opposed to his pajamas, sat down at just the right moment. The flight attendant pushed her cart up to the left side of their suite and placed their meals in front of them.

“Kimchi fried rice bowl and an iced americano and the scallion pancakes with banana milk,” she set down steaming hot plates and Jeongguk happily clapped, “can I get you both anything else?”

Jimin shook his head and thanked her then got right to eating.

They ate their breakfast quickly then prepared for their descent into Seoul. Jeongguk was surprisingly giddy. For someone who flinched at the mere mention of his family, he seemed shockingly excited about getting to his home. 

Jimin only ogled as the city came into view. His face almost pressed against the window, Jimin couldn’t believe he was here in Korea. The country of his ancestors and his ethnicity. 

All the things Jimin had grown up with—kimchi and fried rice, games, cartoons, the language—it was all in full bloom here. 

As soon as the plane landed and the seatbelt light blinked off, Jimin leapt to his feet to get his carry-on bag from the overhead compartment. All of a sudden, he was feeling eager to get out there and into Seoul. 

“Baby! Slow down!” Jeongguk called out as he sped walk out the boarding terminal and into the airport. 

Incheon airport was quite the spectacle, much more impressive than JFK. It was filled with spas and private sleeping rooms. Had a casino, a golf course, and even an ice skating rink. Jimin had never been inside of an airport with so many things to keep people busy. He usually spent long layovers napping across uncomfortable lounge chairs.

“I can’t believe this place has indoor gardens and a casino! JFK could never. It’s salmonella in despair,” Jimin lamented, his eyes curiously wandering the airport. “We should try to have a layover here sometime.” Jeongguk laughed, walking beside Jimin as they wheeled their luggage from baggage claim, through the airport, and to the exit. 

Jimin caught a glimpse of balloons peeking through the top of the crowd ahead of him and Jeongguk. And then, a very happy, jumpy girl was running towards them. 

“Jeonggukie!” She jumped into Jeongguk’s arms and hugged him tightly. 

“Jisoo!” Jeongguk exclaimed just as enthusiastically. Jimin saw an immediate lift in his boyfriend’s demeanor at the appearance of Jisoo.

“I missed you!” She pulled away from Jeongguk and turned to Jimin. “Jimin! Hello, it’s so nice to meet you!” She pulled Jimin in for another tight hug. Jisoo radiated warmth and smiles and giggles and all Jimin wanted to do was be around her and her presence as much as he could. Some people told him he could be a bit of a downer and had a resting-bitch-face.

“It’s so nice to meet you too, Jisoo,” Jimin replied, smiling from the interaction.

Too Jimin’s left, Jeongguk was having a reunion of his own. “Jeonggukie,” Namjoon (Jimin presumed) said, patting Jeongguk on the back as the two hugged. 

“It’s been too long, Hyung,” Jeongguk pulled away, all smiles. Jimin hadn’t ever seen him like this. 

“Hi, Jimin,” Namjoon hugged Jimin as well, the man towering over Jimin’s rather small frame, “lovely to meet you.”

“It’s great to meet you too,” Jimin replied. 

“You guys didn’t have to come pick us up,” Jeongguk began.

“Of course we did!”

“Of course we had too!” Jisoo and Namjoon said at the same time. “I had to welcome my best man home properly,” Namjoon put a hand on Jeongguk’s shoulder. 

“Alright, these are for you,” Jisoo handed Jimin the balloons, a trio of pinks and reds in heart shapes, and in turn took Jimin’s suitcase from his hand. “Let’s go!” She urged, and the rest of the group followed.

The four exited the airport together, quite the bustling bunch. Namjoon led them to a haphazardly parked White Jeep with no roof. They clambered in, their luggage in the trunk, and took off.

mood: every summertime — NIKI

It was surprisingly warm, as opposed to what Jimin had read about what the weather would be like. The breeze blew through his hair as they zoomed down the expressway, passing all sorts of attractions and landmarks. Jimin was amazed. Cherry blossom trees lined the streets, as did people. It all seemed so foreign, yet so familiar, and Jimin loved it. It was like he was finally breathing in everything his mother had always told him about.

“You guys hungry?” Jisoo asked from the back seat, her hair billowing from the wind.

“I’m always hungry,” Jimin replied from next to her.

Namjoon continued down the road, bypassing skyscrapers and office buildings. Seoul sparkled. The sunset reflecting off the glass buildings made the city gleam. Jimin leaned over and wrapped his arms around Jeongguk’s neck from the back, pressing a kiss to his cheek. He could feel the smile on Jeongguk’s face, spreading wider by the second as he held onto Jimin’s arm with his hand.

“Babe?” Jisoo asked Namjoon, practically yelling over the wind.

“What, sweetheart?” He glanced up at the rear view mirror to Jisoo

“I’m thinking we go to our favorite place. The one in Myeongdong?”

“I know the one,” Namjoon replied. Jimin couldn’t help but wonder where they were heading. Ever since he had spoke with his mom about his trip and she’d brought up all the amazing food he was going to have the chance to eat, Jimin couldn’t stop thinking about how delicious Korean food would taste in Korea.

Growing up, his mom of course had cooked him all sorts of Korean meals, but most of them were classic recipes, easy for a single mother to make after a late-night shift at the diner. He was looking forward to eating everything he could.

After a thrilling drive from the Incheon airport to the main area of Seoul, Namjoon pulled into a parking garage and the four of them unloaded and set out on foot through the streets of Myeongdong district.

“Myeongdong has the best street food in Seoul. It’s probably one of the best places to eat in all of Korea,” Jeongguk explained as he and Jimin walked hand in hand beside Jisoo and Namjoon on the sidewalk. The buildings towering besides them were stacked and decked out with light up signs and bright colors. 

“Our parents refused to take us down here to eat growing up. So, the second we could drive, we got food here any chance we could,” Namjoon said as they entered what seemed to be the main area of Myeongdong. It was a big space filled with tables and people, eating food that smelled divine. Surrounding the seating area were food stalls where folks lined up to order their dinners.

“Come with me,” Jeongguk took Jimin’s hand once again and pulled him along as Jeongguk went up to various stalls and ordered. “These street food vendors pretty much make only one dish, and they’ve been perfecting it for generations,” he said after ordering what looked like soondae to Jimin. 

They went from stall to stall, ordering an abundance of food and then carrying it to a table Jisoo had commandeered. 

Jeongguk mainly spoke in Korean as he ordered and Jimin loved it. He spoke with a softness in his voice and his words flowed together. The two rarely spoke in their native language with each other so Jimin took any chance he could to hear it come out of Jeongguk’s mouth with awe.

After taking their last meal (a plate of dumplings), they returned to find the table littered with all sorts of dishes. Jimin couldn’t wait to get eating. The plane ride he’d barely eaten and then at the airport before Namjoon and Jisoo picked them up, he and Jeongguk had gotten some fast food. However, it was nowhere near filling.

“This all looks amazing,” Jimin complimented.

“Make sure you try the Kkwabaegi. I loved them as a kid,” Jisoo said before eating a mouthful of noodles. Jimin nodded and dug into his food. 

The group conversed and laughed about whatever silly things were going on in their lives as they ate. Jisoo and Namjoon were busy and booked with wedding festivities Jimin learned. They were counting down the days to the big event, partly with excitement and partly with relief. Namjoon explained that he was more than ready to be done with wedding planning and just wanted to be married.

Jimin mostly listened, engrossed in just listening to the three of them catch-up, laughing over childhood memories; summers in Seoul and school days in the United Kingdom. Jimin dreamed of what a young Jeongguk looked and acted like in his school days.

“Baby,” Jeongguk turned to face Jimin, “try this,” he held up a piece of fried chicken in his chopstick, placing it into Jimin’s mouth after he compliantly opened for him. 

“It’s really spicy,” Jimin finally said, giggling as he swallowed the piece of chicken. Jeongguk joined him in laughter. “Itsreally good though, oh my god!”

“I told you! Best chicken in the city,” Jeongguk replied enthusiastically.

“Before I forget, I need some help tomorrow with groomsmen duties. I don’t want to be stuck with Seun-ah by myself,” Namjoon said to Jeongguk who only flashed him a smug grin.

“I still cannot believe you got that guy to be one of your groomsmen,” Jeongguk replied, shoving some ramen into his mouth.

“I guess I needed one more guy, and he surprisingly gets things done.”

“Thank you. I rest my case,” Jisoo chimed in.

“Jisoo-ah…” Jeongguk chuckled.

“Well as you can tell, I didn’t really have a choice when it came to picking my last man,” Namjoon lamented, then turned to talk to Jimin, noticing he seemed a little lost, “Seun-ah is the dickwad who used to steal my tuck-shop money when we were in school in London as kids. Until Jeonggukie beat him up,” he smirked, playfully hitting Jeongguk’s shoulder with his chopstick.

“You did not beat somebody up,” Jimin said in disbelief. Jeongguk, the man who wouldn’t dare hurt a hair on anyone’s head, beat a guy up. It was almost comical.

“I did not. I threw one punch and then I fell over on the floor and ate shit. And then the guy sat on me. So, it wasn’t much of a fight,” Jeongguk confessed. Jimin laughed again at the image of Jeongguk fighting someone, let alone losing and falling over.

“Anyone want some soju?” Namjoon was all of a sudden standing up from the table, looking around for a stall to get some drinks. 

“Yes, please.”

“I would love one, thank you, dear.”

“Sure, Namjoon”

“Sounds good. And Jimin?” Namjoon turned to face Jimin before heading off.

“Hm?”

“Please, call me Hyung.”

Jimin felt a little flustered. Obviously, coming from the States, Jimin rarely used honorifics. He tried to study up for the trip, but he could only do so much in such a short time.

“Right, of course,” Jimin nodded his head and broke into a small smile. Namjoon took off for the drink vendor, leaving Jisoo, Jeongguk, and Jimin at the table.

“So, Jimin,” Jisoo scooted her chair closer to Jimin’s and leaned her elbows on the table, “my bachelorette party is this weekend, and I would love for you to come.”

“Thank you, but I wouldn't want to intrude on you and your friends’ weekend,” Jimin said. Jisoo frowned a little.

 “Oh, don’t be silly. We’ll have so much fun and my friends will love you. Besides, you wouldn’t want to tag along with Jeongguk to Namjoon’s bachelor party. Seun planned it…”

“Well, then, I’d love to. Thank you,” Jimin flashed her  smile before taking another bite of beef.

“Yes, very good then,” Jisoo clasped her hands together.

After some time, Namjoon returned with four bottles of soju. Jimin wanted to down half of his the moment it was placed in front of him, but not Namjoon called for a toast before he could get his first toast.

“Alright, guys. A toast,” he held up his beer, “to my best man and brother for life, Jeongguk, who can’t fight for shit. And to Jimin, who is already family to Jisoo and I.”

“A toast! To married life,” Jisoo finished.

“Oh, god,” Namjoon sighed, “little too soon, babe.”

The four clinked their drinks together then began to chug. 

“So, Jimin, tell me more about your job?” Jisoo queried.

“Oh! Well, I teach economics at NYU.”

“Is that so? That school is so impressive, I almost went there myself but ended up at Oxford,” Namjoon replied.

“Oxford, wow,” Jimin exclaimed.

“Quit boasting, Joonie,” Jisoo said, “Jimin, every kid who goes to British boarding school goes to Oxford or Cambridge or something along those lines. He’s not that special,” she giggled.

“I am hurt!” Namjoon joked.

“Hm, is that so,” she replied, then kissed Namjoon quickly.

“You guys are cute,” Jimin offered.

“They normally aren’t quite this touchy in public,” Jeongguk replied.

“What would you know, Ggukie, you haven’t been home in what? Two years?” Jisoo said, chuckling.

“Alright, you got me there,” Jeongguk threw up his hands in defeat. Jimin laughed along. The three of them got on so well, he could see how easy it would have been for them all to have been close growing up. That, and they all came from the richest families in Seoul, they were bound to know each other.

~~~

After finishing their meal in Myeongdong, Jisoo and Namjoon once again insisted they drive Jeongguk and Jimin back to their hotel. Jeongguk had a car pre-rented for them to drive, but it would just have to be taken to their hotel.

While zooming by on the street, Jimin admired how Seoul truly sparkled in the night sky. He had earlier been amazed by the sun reflecting off the skyscrapers, but now, he was truly entranced. The city was lit up. Everywhere Jimin looked, he saw something new, bright, and shiny. 

It reminded him of New York, except he’d grown up in New York. Every day he saw the towering skyscrapers and bustling city skylines. This was entirely new and different. Not only was it less crowded, but it was also cleaner, way cleaner. 

The wind blew through the open jeep once again and Jimin felt like he was in highschool again, speeding down the Brooklyn Bridge.

Jisoo, caught up in the moment, stuck her hands above her head and hollered: “Jeongguk’s in Seoul!”

Jimin could hear Jeongguk in front of him giggle and mutter: “it’s good to be home.” Jimin found himself growing incredibly sappy. He had never really seen Jeongguk in his home environment. He had never seen him around his family and closest childhood friends. It felt like the next big step in their relationship they were taking and it brought Jimin a glimmer of hope for what might come after. 

“Baby!” Jimin leaned over the seat and leaned into Jeongguk’s ear.

“Hm?” Jeongguk turned around to see a smiling Jimin, eagerly awaiting to ask his question. But before Jimin could, Jeongguk pecked his boyfriend’s lips. The blonde burst into giggles and toppled over in the back seat.

“You goof,” Jeongguk said as he returned to his normal seating position, his arm resting on the car door. Jimin, grinning from ear to ear, turned to face the window again.

Cites, Jimin had come to realize, while all had the same elements and bustling life, they each had their own something special about them. And the ones Jimin had visited meant something personally special to him.

Manhattan was his home. He grew up there and knew the streets and subway systems like the back of his hand. It was the city of dreams and Jimin was lucky enough to experience it every single day.

The only thing that Seoul was to Jimin so far was the fact it was Jeongguk’s home. Maybe not his true home, Jimin hoped, but it was where he grew up and where all his close family resided. 

Namjoon and Jisoo dropped them off and quickly bid their farewells before heading back home. Jimin was stunned upon hopping out of the car.

First and foremost, much like any of the other buildings Jimin had seen, it towered over the city and shone under the night sky. But this hotel also included what seemed to be a rooftop garden and bar. He and Jeongguk would have to check it out.

“Good evening, Mr. Jeon and Mr. Park. I hope you had a safe journey to our lovely city,” a staff member came over to them as they gathered themselves after getting out of the car, a busboy with a luggage cart behind her, “Seungmin here will take your bags. And I will show you to your suite.”

“Don’t we have to check in?” Jimin asked, but felt foolish minutes afterwards. Of course they wouldn’t have to check it.

“Not at all, sir,” the staff member kindly reassured and motioned for them to follow her through the (first) lobby of the hotel to one of the many elevators. Although he didn’t get that great of a look, the lobby was glamorous. Everything about Seoul was a culture shock to Jimin. Or perhaps it was Jeongguk’s home lifestyle that was a culture shock. The more he saw, the more Jimin wondered how much Jeongguk’s parents were providing and how much Jeongguk had bought on his own. How could Jimin have missed just how rich his boyfriend was.

Hand in hand, Jimin and Jeongguk followed the staff member as she took them up to the (actual) lobby where she checked them in and got them their key cards, then led them to the next set of elevators to take. 

“Your suite is actually two floors below the lobby. It’s where all the presidentals are located,” the staff member explained as they rode the elevator down.

“At least we won’t be as high up, Jimin here isn’t the biggest fan of heights,” Jeongguk said. Jimin side-eyed him and nudged his side.

“A presidential suite?!” Jimin whispered to Jeongguk.

“Really, just go with it.” Just go with it?! Was Jeongguk being serious. First the plane and now the hotel? Jimin decided to keep quiet the rest of the way to their room. He didn’t want to make a scene.

“I was seriously pissed until I now, Jeongguk,” Jimin said as they finally entered the room and Jimin saw the kitchen and living room but most importantly the bed. He flopped down onto it and sighed. “I could melt into the mattress and stay here forever.”

Jeongguk chuckled and joined Jimin. “Just enjoy it, love.”

“I’m trying, it’s just a lot.”

“What is?”

“Being bombarded with the fact that my boyfriend is the heir to a multi—billion dollar fortune. It’s all really nice, it is, I just wish I had known.”

“Well, now you know,” Jeongguk said.

“That’s not just it, Jeongguk,” Jimin sat up and left the bed, “I feel stupid. First the plane and the first class suite then hearing about your best friend’s gazillion dollar wedding. And now this room and the hotel! Why didn’t I know anything!” 

Jeongguk quickly followed Jimin. “Does it really matter that much? Baby, come on.” 

“Of course the money doesn’t matter. What matters is that I was kept in the dark. You kept like a whole other life from me! Why would you do that?!” Jimin ranted. Jeongguk was speechless and sat back down on the bed. 

“I really didn’t think it mattered, I’m sorry,” he said and motioned for Jimin to come towards him. Jimin rolled his eyes playfully but nonetheless walked into Jeongguk’s open arms which wrapped around his waist. “I love you so much.” Jeongguk pressed a kiss to Jimin’s clothed stomach. 

“I love you too,” Jimin looked down at his boyfriend. How could he be mad at this man? This man with fluffy brown hair and eyes like the ones of a doe. This man who’d Jimin knew would do anything for him.

“Are you still mad?” 

“I was never mad, just upset.”

“I didn’t think there was a difference?” 

“Oh, there is,” Jimin said, a breathy laugh escaping his mouth. 

“Let’s get out of here for a bit.” Jeongguk let go of Jimin and stood up, making his way to where they took off their shoes.

“Can’t we just go to bed,” Jimin groaned but followed.

“We have to make the most of this, baby. We’re only here for seven days.”

“Exactly. I’d like to have enough sleep to get through those seven days.”

“I just want to show you around Gangnam a bit. Take you down to the Han River. We’re right by it,” Jeongguk explained.

“I suppose we can do that.” And the smile that grew on Jeongguk’s face was enough to wash away any harsh feelings Jimin was still feeling towards him.

Jeongguk was all of a sudden very giddy and he was practically bouncing off the walls as he and Jimin went up to the lobby then back down to the ground-level lobby. Jimin thought they’d just walk to the river but when Jeongguk walked up to the transportation services desk, he knew he was in for it.

“We’d like to rent two bikes?” Jeongguk explained. Jimin laughed in disbelief. They’d be lucky if they could make it to the river before Jimin would fall asleep mid ride and topple off his bike.

The staff member quickly rented the bikes for them and guided them to a bike rack.

“This will be fun, baby,” Jeongguk said as he unhooked their bikes from the rack and handed one to Jimin.

“I’m sure it will be,” Jimin said sarcastically but still swung a leg over the bike and situated himself on it.

“Just ride along and follow me,” Jeongguk called out as he began peddling away. Jimin began biking with haste in order to catch up to his boyfriend.

mood: london boy — taylor swift 

Jimin knew they wouldn’t be biking far but he still took as much time as he could. There was something about biking through the bustling streets of Seoul that made Jimin gasp. Everywhere he looked there were people living their own lives. It was beautiful to Jimin how so many different souls were going about their days as they always did.

And watching Jeongguk was also a treat. Every so often, Jimin would catch a glance at him. Jeongguk looked so happy. He looked young and free. It was almost as if Jimin was seeing 16-year-old Jeongguk in the flesh. Someone he’d only heard about in recent stories.

They continued to bike for a few more minutes until the Han River came into view. It sure was a sight. Greenery overgrowing the side, the stars reflecting off the water. They parked their bikes as Jeongguk took Jimin by the hand, leading him to a less busy area where they could sit and watch the river.

“This is gorgeous, Jeongguk,” Jimin said as they sat themselves down on the grass, Jeongguk’s body situated between Jimin’s legs, his head in Jimin’s lap. 

“Told you it’d be worth it,” he said cheekily.

“Oh shut up,” Jimin rolled his eyes and kissed Jeongguk’s forehead.

“I really am sorry. About the whole not telling you about my family’s thing,” Jeongguk said.

“It’s okay, I forgive you, don’t worry. I understand not wanting to unload that all on me,” Jimin laced his fingers with Jeongguk’s.

“So we’re okay?”

“Of course we’re okay.”

They were always okay. Jimin loved Jeongguk and he loved him. After lounging for a little bit, Jeongguk pulled Jimin up to his feet and led him back to their bikes. 

Once situated, they rode back down the way they came, thankfully, Jimin thought. He loved Seoul already, but above all, he was exhausted.

“What do you wanna do once we get back to the room?” Jeongguk asked as they neared their suite, now off the bikes and in the elevator.

“Sleep, for hours,” Jimin replied, swiping his key card to unlock the door. He pushed the door open the minute the light blinked green, kicked off his shoes, and flopped onto the massive king bed. Jeongguk followed and toppled over beside him, before pulling Jimin towards him and kissing him softly. Jimin breathed him in like it was the last breath he would ever take.

They listlessly made out for a good ten minutes, Jeongguk clearly wanted to go further, until Jimin pushed him off gently.

“I love you, baby, but I need to shower,” Jimin explained.

“What happened to sleeping for hours?” Jeongguk wondered.

“I’ll do that once I’m clean,” Jimin promised.

“Alright then, looks like I’ll just be here, waiting,” Jeongguk flashed him puppy dog eyes and sprawled out on the bed.

“You’re such a goof,” Jimin laughed, then walked to the bathroom. After flicking on the shower faucet, the room steaming up accordingly, he pulled out his phone and scrolled till he found his mom’s contact.

“Hi, honey,” his mom started once the line connected.

“Hey mom.”

“Everything okay?”

“Yeah, of course, I guess I just wanted to hear a familiar voice.”

“You sure you’re okay, Minie?”

The childhood nickname struck a sensitive chord in Jimin’s heart.

“Well, apart from having first class tickets and a presidential suite sprung on me…. I guess you could just say I’m in a little shock.”

“Oh shit, sounds like he’s a crown prince, wouldn’t you like that?”

“I don’t even really care, to be honest, but what bothers me is that I didn’t know anything. It’s weird. And we talked about it, and there’s really no reason for me to be mad, but…”

“He lied to you. I understand, honey.”

“Okay… he didn’t exactly lie to me, he just kept the truth.”

“It doesn’t sound better whatever way you say it.”

“It’s really not that big of a deal, I guess I’m just overwhelmed right now.”

“You have every right to be, honey .”

“Thanks, mama.”

“Call me if you need anything else, I love you.”

“Love you too.” And then Jimin hung up. He set his phone down and took a quick shower, hoping to wash away all his negative feelings from the day. 

Even though he was partially hoping to fuck before he went to sleep, Jeongguk was passed out in bed the minute Jimin stepped out of the bathroom. Grinning, he slipped on some pajamas and crawled into bed beside Jeongguk, the heat emitting from his body resulting in Jimin only needing one blanket. He always had been a human furnace.

Jimin cuddled up close to Jeongguk and shut his eyes tight. He tried for what seemed like over an hour to fall asleep, but nonetheless, he lay eyes wide and awake, staring up at the ceiling in the dark.

It could be jetlag, the time difference… or it could be the unknown inevitable Jimin would have to face come tomorrow.

After lying restlessly for a little white more, he reached for his phone and typed into google: Seoul Jeon Family.

Countless articles appeared and Jimin probably spent over an hour scrolling and reading them all.

JEONS SIGN OFF ON A NEW DEAL

SEOUL’S ROYAL FAMILIES? THE JEON’S AND KIM’S  LONG LINE OF HISTORY IN KOREA

YOUNGEST JEON SON PROMISED TO DAUGHTER OF THE IM FAMILY

HILTON FAMILY SELL REAL ESTATE TO JEONS

A LIFE IN FASHION: JEON MATRIARCHS STUN IN GLAMOROUS STYLES

CONSTRUCTION RUMORED COMPLETE ON JEON 100 MILLION DOLLAR MANSION, SOON TO BE APPRECIATED

MAKING WAVES IN THE BUSINESS WORLD: JUNGHEE JEON

That was just the beginning of it. Jimin realized he wouldn’t be getting the real truth, but at least he had some insight. Jeongguk’s family was crazy rich, that much was obvious. But how crazy were they willing to get?

Chapter Text

Jimin blinked his eyes open to the sound of a very cheery alarm clock, You’re All I Need to Get By chirping through the speakers.

The room was basked in the golden glow of the morning sun. He was snuggled up with Jeongguk, Jeongguk’s arm thrown over Jimin’s body, never wanting move and leave the softness of Jeongguk’s warm skin 

“We’ve got to get up. Busy day today,” Jeongguk said sweetly into Jimin’s ear, his voice scruffy, pecking his hand then leaving his side. “Stay right here. I’ll go downstairs and get you a breakfast tray.”

“Nooo,” Jimin whined, “Stay in bed.” He rolled over and was graced with the sight of shirtless Jeongguk, the morning light draping over him on all the right places, “Who needs breakfast when I can just eat you,” Jimin smirked.

“Nuh-uh, mister. I have groomsmen duties to attend to and aren’t you meeting up with Taehyung today.”

“But there’s always time for sex,” Jimin pouted and gave Jeongguk a sultry grin, “Come here,” he made grabby hands for Jeongguk.

“How can I resist,” Jeongguk said before crawling back onto the bed, caging Jimin under him. 

“Kiss me,” Jimin breathed then Jeongguk’s lips were on his. They kissed slowly but passionately, clearly still waking up. Jimin ran his hands down Jeongguk’s bare torso, dragging over every dip and crevice of his abdominal. 

“How do you want me, dear?” Jeongguk whispered into Jimin’s ear, then began to trail kisses from his earlobe down to his collarbone, his hands planted firmly on either side of Jimin’s head.

Jimin let out a breathless moan before answering. 

“Mmm… let me ride you.” Jeongguk’s eyes rolled back into his head at Jimin’s response. No one would ever look as beautiful as Jimin did while he slowly rode Jeongguk. Everytime, Jeongguk found himself entranced.

mood: love on the brain — rihanna 

Jimin leaned up and pressed a kiss to Jeongguk’s nose before flipping them over, his legs now straddling Jeongguk’s hips, his clothed ass seating over Jeongguk’s clothed, but very hard, cock. Jimin gave his hips a subtle roll, the feeling making him shudder.

“I think I’ll blow you first,” Jimin said as he leaned down and kissed down Jeongguk’s body, all the way from his pecs to his happy trail that peaked out of the waistband of his sweatpants. 

“Are you taking the lead this time?” Jeongguk let out a groan as Jimin played with his pants before sliding them down so his cock could be freed.

“Do you not want me to?” Jimin flashed Jeongguk innocent eyes, which were incredibly ironic considering their current situation.

“No, no. Please . I love when you’re like this.” Jeongguk bit his lip and Jimin gripped his cock, stroked him a few times then took him in his mouth. His tongue swirled around the head before taking Jeongguk fully. 

Jimin was now bent over Jeongguk’s legs, his mouth at the base of Jeongguk, his pubic hairs brushing over his chin. Jimin continued  to suck Jeongguk. He didn’t have a very fast pace, it was more languid and sweet even, but the low groans and moans Jeongguk was letting out past his lips only encouraged Jimin to keep at it. 

He circled his tongue around the tip and ran it along Jeongguk’s shaft before pulling off with an obscene pop. Jimin stroked Jeongguk a few more times then pulled away completely. He crawled up on the bed to reach Jeongguk, who was sitting up, then pressed his plump lips onto Jeongguk’s. The two kissed briefly before Jimin leaned back on his haunches and situated himself over Jeongguk’s hips once again.

Desperate, Jimin sat up and wiggled his sleep shorts and underwear off. But they only made it as far as his knees. He blew out a breath in frustration.

“You need some help there, baby?” Jeongguk smirked and reached over to yank Jimin’s shorts off the rest of the way before Jimin could even respond. Jimin moaned at being manhandled so quickly and immediately gripped Jeongguk’s cock and positioned himself over it, ready to sink down on it, ready to feel so full.

“Woah, woah, baby. Slow down. I need to stretch you first,” Jeongguk put his hands on Jimin’s waist to stop him from going any further.

“Let go,” Jimin begged, “I’m stretched enough from the plane. I just need you inside me, right now .” Jimin whined and waited for Jeongguk to remove his hands before he could sink down on Jeongguk’s length. Jeongguk finally released his grip and Jimin pushed down until he was fully situated on Jeongguk.

“Fuck!” He cried out as he sank down. The stretch burned but the pleasure outweighed the pain just enough that Jimin didn’t mind it. He bent over and planted his hands on Jeongguk’s chest. Jeongguk brought his knees up, pressing the bottom of his feet into the mattress, to give Jimin some purpose and then the blonde reached one hand back onto Jeongguk’s knee and left the other on his chest and  finally started to move.

Jimin pushed up and down with his knees, rolling his hips back and forth at the same time as he desperately searched for his sweet spot. His head tilted back and his mouth fell open. Broken moans escaped Jimin’s lips and Jeongguk lowly groaned every once in a while as Jimin moved up and down on him like a maniac. A sleepy, slow-moving maniac.

“Keep going, baby,” Jeongguk encouraged and he was only met with a high-pitched moan from Jimin as he seemed to finally hit his prostate.

Jimin continued to ride Jeongguk, moaning and gasping without end. Jeongguk sat up from his laying position and wrapped his hands around Jimin’s torso, feeling up and down his back as Jimin kept at his movements. Jeongguk traced the moon phases that inked down Jimin’s back blindly. He’d done it countless times, of course he didn’t need to look to see where they lay.

Jeongguk pressed a gentle kiss to the corner of Jimin’s mouth before his lips landed hungrily on Jimin’s. They devoured each other in a bruising kiss, only pulling apart to catch their breath.

Jimin must’ve hit his prostate right on because he began to chant a series of “ah’s” against Jeongguk’s mouth after they had broken apart once more.

He took this as a sign to plant his feet down firmly into the mattress and thrust up into Jimin, almost knocking the blonde off his balance which caused Jimin to wrap his arms around Jeongguk’s neck tightly.

“Oh, yes, y—yes!” Jimin cried out loudly as Jeongguk continuously fucked up into him, brushing Jimin’s prostate every time.

“ ‘M gonna come!” Jimin shrieked.

“Shit, me too,” Jeongguk groaned and both their orgasms reached them at roughly the same time, Jimin’s however coming in white spurts that almost landed on Jeongguk’s chin while Jeongguk came inside Jimin, his cum hot and already leaking out of Jimin’s hole.

“ Fuck,” they both said in unison. Jeongguk fell back on the bed, bringing Jimin with him as they laid in silence for a few minutes, catching their breath. 

Jimin, his head resting near Jeongguk’s shoulder just above his chest, traced the tattoos on his arms, dragging his finger over the ink in swirls and circles. Jeongguk had tattoos of all kinds, just enough to fill his sleeve. 

Jeongguk had one arm thrown over Jimin’s frame, rubbing his back, and the other bent behind his head as he watched Seoul out the window.

They continued to lay like that, heart to heart, until Jeongguk gently pushed Jimin off him and sat up, reaching for his pants that had been discarded somewhere else on the bed earlier. Jimin groaned and blindly reached out for Jeongguk.

“Just stay a little longer.”

“No can do, baby. We’ve really got to get up. Busy days for the both of us, today,” Jeongguk shrugged on some slacks from his suitcase and threw on a green top. Jimin sat up, facing the other way, the blanket wrapped around his body as he sulked. 

“Can’t we just lay around for a little longer? Have sex once or twice more,” he whined.

“I wish,” Jeongguk came up behind Jimin and rested his chin on Jimin’s shoulder, kissing behind his ear softly, “but we both have big plans for today. Why don’t you shower and I’ll for real this time run down to the breakfast floor and grab you a tray?” Jimin groaned quietly. 

“Will you get me a muffin?” He asked quietly.

“I’ll get you as many as you like,” Jeongguk replied.

“Okay then,” Jimin finally agreed, freeing himself of Jeongguk’s light hold and standing up to find something suitable to wear for his visit to Taehyung’s.

“Will you drive me there?” Jimin asked, nonchalantly changing on the other side of the bed, Jeongguk shamelessly watching as his boyfriend shimmed out of his skimpy sleepwear and into something a bit more presentable. “Babe?” Jimin used the term of endearment to get Jeongguk’s attention. 

“Sorry?” The brunette blinked out of his haze and met Jimin’s eyes. 

“You’ll drive me there, right?”

“Right. Of course, of course.”

~~~

Jimin, dressed in yellow, finally pulled up to Taehyung’s house. Well, it was more of a palace than a house, he realized, catching sight of the golden accents all over the exterior. He swung his legs out of the door and stood out of the car, making his way around the car to bid Jeongguk farewell.

“I’ll see you around eight o’clock?” Jeongguk asked, looking up at Jimin.

“Yep. Do I have the correct address to your halmeoni’s?” Jimin rested a hand on the car door and leaned down to meet Jeongguk at eye level.

“I hope so,” Jeongguk chuckled, “Don’t forget to tell Taehyung that he is welcome to join you for dinner and also, don’t forget to have fun,” he flashed Jimin a cheeky grin and reached upwards for a kiss.

“Bye, babe,” Jimin returned the kiss and stood back up straight.

“Goodbye, I love you!” Jeongguk called out to Jimin. He returned the sentiment then slammed the door shut.

After being let in by a gold gate, Jimin began to walk up the cobblestone pathway that wrapped around a fountain when the front doors swung open and out running came Taehyung, running towards Jimin, arms open.

“What up biaaatch!” 

“Taehyung!” Jimin caught his face in his hands, smiling unimaginably hard at the sight of his old college roommate. The now blue-haired boy caught Jimin in a hug, jumping up and down and swaying side to side, his arms never breaking their hold around Jimin. 

“You look amazing!” Jimin said as he pulled away from his former roomie. Taehyung was dressed in a matching, designer pajama set with silver details and wore expensive looking slippers on his feet.

“I know, some things never change right?” Taehyung posed awkwardly, making Jimin giggle. 

“And this is… quite a place,” Jimin commented.

“It’s alright,” Taehyung teased before looping his arm through the crook of Jimin’s, leading him up to the front doors. To Jimin’s surprise, three teacup-sized dogs came running out the doors as they opened once more, barking like mad.

“Astor! Vanderbilt! Rockefeller! Naughty, naughty boys! Stop barking!” Mrs. Kim, Taehyung’s mother, came bursting out the door directly after the dogs, “Jimin! So good to see you. Both of you, come inside!” Taehyung shrugged his shoulders and led Jimin into the house, following Mrs. Kim. 

“It’s great to see you again, Mrs Kim,” Jimin said as she guided them through the main entryway of the house.

“Yes, you as well. I believe the last time we saw each other was our Taehyung’s graduation?” She replied as she instructed them to take off their shoes and put on some house slippers instead. Taehyung had graduated before Jimin because he decided to get his masters in economics and he still had two years ahead of him.

“I think so,” Jimin grinned, his arm still hooked with Taehyung’s who seemed to be itching to get reintroductions over with.

“Now this room,” Mrs Kim started as she led them into what seemed to be the main living room, “is our grand living space. We were inspired by the Hall of Mirrors in Versailles,” she gestured to the room.

“It’s beautiful, the gold is brilliant. Your home is wonderful, Mrs. Kim,” Jimin complimented.

“Thank you. And please, call me Auntie, Auntie Yunsoo.”

“Sorry, Auntie Yunsoo.”

“Ma?” Taehyung asked, urgently.

“Yes, my son?”

“Look, I’m sure Jimin loves you showing him the house, but I’m also sure he’s probably hungry. So, let’s go eat.”

Yunsoo grimaced at her son before turning back to Jimin, her face cheery once more. 

“This one’s crabby. I apologize, Jimin,” she turned to Taehyung again, Jimin giggling at the same time, “ You need to eat more and have a balanced diet. Go, take Jimin to the dining room and introduce him to your brother and sisters and your harabeoji.”

“Will do, ma.” Taehyung took Jimin swiftly by the arm once again and brought him to the dining room where the rest of his family seemed to be. Introductions and reintroductions were in order before they sat down at the long, gold-trimmed table.

Jimin sat at Taehyung’s side, across from his brother Yejun, a man in his thirties who seemed albeit shy and quiet. And Taehyung’s parents sat at either head with his twin sisters on the other side of Taehyung and his harabeoji next to Yejun.

The meal splayed in front of Jimin was colorful to say the least, definitely too much for just lunch. There were plates of Korean BBQ and dumplings. Roast pork and short ribs. Japchae and potsticker salad. Almost every kind of Korean soup, and to top it all off, sweet red bean porridge.

“You guys sure are crazy about food,” Jimin joked.

“The food in Korea is possibly the best in the world. You have to take advantage of it. Can’t find it like this in America,” Yunsoo replied.

“So, Jimin. We are so grateful for the help you’ve given our Taehyung here. He was a big mess before you,” Taehyung’s father, Sujin said.

“Oh, my god, no. If it wasn’t for Taehyung I’d be a big mess. He really got me through college and I don’t know what I would’ve done without my best friend,” Jimin said, nudging Taehyung’s shoulder affectionately. Taehyung smiled softly in response.

“How sweet of you to say, Jimin. We really do appreciate all you have done for our son, though,” Yunsoo agreed, “Please, eat up. This is very simple food.” Simple . Jimin truly had no clue how rich people thought and lived. Even if it was Taehyung, his family still had money.

“Yes! Don’t be shy. You look like you could gain some weight,” Sujin added. Jimin was a bit taken aback by the comment but chose to ignore it.

“Pa!” Taehyung said in disbelief.

“What! I’m just giving him some friendly advice. People need meat on their bones!” Sujin said.

“Still! You can’t say stuff like that,” Taehyung put down his chopsticks and widened his eyes.

“You’d rather I called him fat? I thought being called skinny was a compliment,” his father replied and went back to eating his food.

“I’d rather you’d not comment on his body at all.”

“Taehyung, it’s okay,” Jimin reassured, “I guess I’m on the smaller side, not that I ever really noticed. I’m no model, though.” All Jimin wanted to do was relieve the tension. Taehyung was the same as he’d always been: fiery and opinionated. Much like his father, clearly.

“You’re definitely no model,” Sujin added. 

“No, not at all,” Jimin said as he took a bite out of some noodles Sujin had put on his plate.

“So, Jimin, what it is you do in America?” Yunsoo asked.

“I’m an economics professor,” Jimin replied.

“Woah, Econ? Very impressive. You must be very smart. Good for you,” Sujin complimented.

“Thank you.”

“Wait, wait, let me get this straight. You both went to the same school. Yet someone came back with a useful degree and the other came back as the Cookie Monster from Sesame Street,” Sujin lamented. Taehyung only rolled his eyes while his hajabeoji laughed at the joke.

They continued to eat their lunch, passing light conversation throughout the room until Sujin obnoxiously tried to get his son, Yejun’s, attention.

“Psst. Yejun?” He whispered loudly.

“What it is, Pa?” Yejun replied.

“Look over here,” Sujin nodded over to Jimin, “he’s a hottie. This is the type of guy you should date. Smart, beautiful, good figure. This is Kim standard. Don’t be shy, just talk to him.”

“I love you,” Yejun whispered and Jimin had to bite down his laugh from this awkward situation.

“Okay. Nope, that’s not what I—uh,” Sujin stuttered.

“Pa. He’s here with his boyfriend,” Taehyung interjected.

“I don’t see no ring on his finger.”

“Oh, well, my boyfriend is actually from Seoul and that’s why we’re here. We are going to his best friend’s wedding where he will be the best man,” Jimin smiled thinking of Jeongguk.

“Oh, what’s his name? This is a very small city, maybe we know his family?” Yunsoo asked, perking up from the other end of table.

“His name is Jeon Jeongguk.”

Taehgung choked on his drink. Sujin’s food fell out of his mouth The whole room went silent. Like ‘you could hear a pin drop’ silent. Jimin looked around the room confused, everyone’s mouths were agape and they were all suddenly paying a lot more attention to Jimin.

“The Jeongguk you’re dating is Jeon Jeongguk ?!” Taehyung questioned with urgency.

“His best friend…” Yunsoo began, “you are invited to Kim Namjoon’s wedding?!”

“Yeah, you guys know them or something?” 

“Hells yeah. The Jeons, the Kims, who doesn’t know who they are,” Sujin responded, getting worked up a little, “they’re just the biggest developers in all of Korea, and Japan, Thailand, Brunei—”

“He gets it,” Taehyung cut his father off, “Namjoon and Jisoo’s wedding is like Seoul’s event of the century. The Jeons are like royalty. Like people will get down on their knees and bow to them.” Everyone else in the room vigorously shook their heads in agreement. Jimin sat back, still incredibly confused but also baffled.

“Did you not know? Does he not know?” Taehyung asked in shock.

“Why didn’t you say something before! Tell, tell, what are they like?” Yunsoo wondered.

“Well I—I mean I haven’t meant them yet. So I don’t really k—know what they’re like. I’m going to Jeongguk’s grandma’s  tonight for his family dinner…” Jimin trailed off as Taehyung looked at him, once again, in disbelief.

“You’re going to Jeongguk’s grandma’s house wearing this? Wearing that?” Taehyung motioned to Jimin’s yellow blazer and matching pants. 

“I thought yellow was lucky?” The table burst out into laughter.

“This will not do, come, come with me,” Taehyung stood up abruptly and took Jimin by the hand then dragged him out of the dining room to the stairs. 

“How did you not know?” Taehyung asked once they were out of earshot, heading up the stairs, still hand in hand.

“I knew he had money. I just didn’t know it was to this level ,” Jimin replied, feeling discouraged.

“How long have you known, then?”

“Like two days,” Jimin said glumly.

“Hey, hey, ” Taehyung stopped on the stair landing and took both of Jimin’s hands in his, “don’t feel upset or discouraged. It’s not your fault Jeongguk never told you. My family can just be over dramatic, sucky people sometimes.”

“I don’t, don’t worry.”

“Well, good. Because there is lots more to explain.” Taehyung continued to lead Jimin up to his bedroom and into his massive walk-in closet. 

“Jimin,” Taehyung began, crossing the room to what seemed to be a bag display, “these people aren’t just rich. They are crazy rich.”

Jimin nodded and sat on the small sofa in the middle of the room. Taehyung scanned up and down the shelf before pulling out a rather large bag with a world map on it.

“There is new money all over Asia. You’ve got the Beijing Billionaires and the Taiwan Tycoons,” Taehyung pointed to the respective locations on the bag, “but the Jeons, they’re old money rich. They had money when they still lived in Busan in the 1800s and they then came to Seoul. It was nothing but open land and farmers but in their eyes, it was theirs for the taking. And that’s exactly what they did and now they are the landlords of one of the most expensive cities in the world,” he finished and shoved the bag into Jimin’s arms which prompted him to stand up.

“These people are so posh and snobby. They’re snoshy,” he decided and handed Jimin a pair of platform pumps, “Here take these too.”

“Yeah, but Jeongguks not like that.”

“Even if he isn’t, I guarantee you the family is,” he placed not one, not two, but five different dresses in Jimin’s open arms.

“Taehyung? What are you doing?” Jimin asked.

“I’m fixing you up! Obviously, you cannot go to Jeongguk’s grandma’s house looking like a fucking banana!” Jimin scoffed, mouth hanging open as he watched Taehyung shuffle around his monster of a closet, pulling out this and that for Jimin to try on. 

“I think what I’m wearing is just fine,” Jimin tried to explain.

“Oh, babe,” Taehyung set down the pairs of shoes he was holding and took Jimin’s chin in his hand, “you are so oblivious it’s almost cute. Try this on,” He held up a dress that looked like it cost a gazillion dollars. Jimin almost felt silly holding it after Taehyung shoved it into his arms.

When Taehyung was done with Jimin, he had donned a loose fitted dress with a deep v-neckline and a halter. It was covered in silver sparkles from head to toe. Jimin thought he looked like a disco ball. Taehyung had also provided him with a pair of matching silver platform heels and shimmery earrings.

“I think this is some of my best work,” Taehyung complimented as he stood behind Jimin who was checking himself out in the mirror.

“I’d have to agree with you. I’ve never looked this good,” Jimin spun around once to see the bottom of the dress in action.

“I rest my case, let’s go,” Taehyung speed walked out of the closet and Jimin could hear him shuffling around in his room next door, probably looking for his car keys.

“Oh! You’ll drive me there?” Jimin stepped into Taehyung’s room.

“Fuck, yes,” Taehyung turned around, his keys hanging from his ring finger, “this is my one and only chance to see the Jeon Family Manison. We have to hurry, now. You can’t be late.” Taehyung took Jimin by the hand and led him through the house to the garage where a red sports car was parked.

mood: rich — megan thee stallion 

“Isn’t she a beaut,” Taehyung said as he hopped in the driver’s seat, Jimin following by getting in on the passenger’s side. He put in the address for the house then he and Taehyung took off without much haste afterwards,

Taehyung, Jimin learned, wasn’t the world’s best driver. He definitely had some road rage as he continuously cursed at other drivers on the road, even before they had hit the expressway.

The pair drove in light, playful chatter with whatever songs Taehyung had picked playing in the background. Up until now, Jimin hadn’t realized how much he truly had missed Taehyung. Even just being in his presence put him in a better mood.

They had been randomly selected as roommates in Jimin's first year of college. Jimin was a broke student with ambitious goals and Taehyung had all the money in the world, yet wanted to experience something different in life and get a good education. They couldn’t have been more perfect for each other.

Jimin could remember countless times where Taehyung had been his shoulder to cry on. Whether it was tough classes or stubborn professors, situationships or one-night stands, Taehyung was there for Jimin. In return, Jimin helped Taehyung study enough to pass his classes and went out with him when he needed it most.

Even though it had been over two years since they had last seen each other, it was like they had never left the other’s side. Taehyung was Jimin’s best friend to the end. 

Taehyung, speeding along the expressway, was swerving left and right in front of cars he deemed “too slow”. Jimin, holding on for dear life, was praying to every god he could think of, begging for “forgiveness” or something like that.

“Come on, jackass! This isn’t your grandma’s road, Jesus fucking Christ,” Taehyung cussed out the car that was now behind him as he once again cut across the lanes to get ahead, blaring his horn as he sped by.

“You probably don’t need to be going this fast, Tae,” Jimin suggested meekly.

“Hello, if you hadn’t noticed, you’re getting a free ride off me. So, I wouldn’t talk too much,” Taehyung retorted, sarcastic in his tone.

“I wasn’t trying,” Jimin said, grinning at the easy banter. None of his friends back in Manhattan were this easy to talk with and joke around. Most of them were either coworkers twice his age or high school friends he only saw two or three times a year. 

“Take exit 4—26A and drive straight for 3 miles, then turn left,” the GPS said autonomously. 

Taehyung followed its instructions and took the proper exit, then drove a bit farther and turned left. The path they were now driving on was unmarked and overgrown. 

“At the next intersection make a U—turn. Make a U—turn.”

Taehyung and Jimin looked at the GPS then out the front window with concern.

“Uh, are you sure you gave me the right address? The GPS says there’s, like, nothing here. Like literally fucking nothing,” Taehyung wondered.

“I mean I—I put in the exact address Jeongguk gave me. This is—,” Jimin began to explain, but was cut off. Taehyung hummed and pulled off onto the next road which was clearly deserted.

“You copied and pasted it?” Taehyung raised an eyebrow.

“Yeah…” Jimin offered.

“Did you just copy and paste, like, fucking “jungle” and just kinda threw it in there?”

“No! What the fuck? This is the address,” Jimin argued.

“Because I feel like that’s—You actually used the—”

“Yah!” Jimin and Taehyung yelped at the same time as a man wearing a red turban appeared at Taehyung’s window.

“Jesus—okay. Hi! Hi there,” Taehyung rolled down his window just a crack, “Hello, sir. How are you?” The man didn’t respond. “We are here for the party… a—and we come in peace,” Taehyung threw up his hands in defeat.

“Do you know where the Jeon Family House is?” Jimin tried, leaning over to Taehyung’s side of the car, “Jeon Jeongguk? I—I’m Park Jimin. I’m here to, um, to go to his family dinner.” Taehyung closed his eyes as he cringed at Jimin’s attempt to communicate with this man.

“Park Jimin for this list? If there is a list…” Taehyung trailed off as the man turned around and walked towards what appeared to be a gate, coated in gold and fancy trimming. Jimin’s eyes widened at the appearance of the rifle on the man’s back.

“He’s on the phone,” Taehyung began, now seeing the rifle as well, “Is that a fucking gun knife? It’s a knife gun. It’s a— Oh! There’s a friend! Okay… Hi! Very nice to um…” he startled at the sight of a second man with a red turban at his window once again. The first man, a guard Jimin assumed, motioned for them to move forward after he finished speaking on the walkie-talkie. 

“We can go through?” Taehyung questioned.

“Go, Taehyung!” Jimin urged.

“We’re going through? Okay. Please, don’t stab the car.” The gates swung open and Taehyung proceeded through, driving at a snail’s pace. “Thanks, bye,” Taehyung called to the guards through his barely opened window as they continued driving and left them in the dust.

As they drove up the road, Jimin found himself becoming entranced. Lanterns illuminated both sides of the lane that seemed to wind up endlessly through a hilly rainforest. Jimin thought, unlike the rest of Seoul which was fresh and new, this area was old and untouched. He looked over to Taehyung and giggled. His friend’s mouth was agape as he took in the sights before him.

“Holy shit, it’s beautiful,” Jimin complimented.

“Beautiful?! It’s two hundred fucking mil worth of real estate,” Taehyung was almost tearing up as the house came into view. “This isn’t a house or a mansion. It’s a palace. And it’s spectacular.”

They continued up the winding road until they pulled up to the cul de sac in front of the front doors of the house. Maids were stationed at various locations, valeting and escorting guests inside the house. Right as Taehyung put the car into park, the front doors opened from the inside and Jeongguk stepped out. He was dressed in a linen suit with perfectly tousled hair. Jimin licked his lips at the sight of him

“Damn, hyung. He’s like the Asian Bachelor,” Taehyung commented and Jimin grinned. Jeongguk strutted up to the car, looking every bit of the prince he was, and opened Jimin’s door.

“Hello, gorgeous,” Jeongguk complimented as he took Jimin’s hand and gently helped him out of the car. He scanned Jimin up and down and smiled, “I think I’ve just fallen in love with you all over again.” Jimin blushed and fell speechless. Corny or not, Jeongguk made Jimin feel things he knew he wouldn’t feel with anyone else.

Jeongguk leaned in and caught Jimin’s lips in a sweet kiss before pulling away, his hands still in Jimin’s. 

“I missed you,” was all Jimin could say. He’d be a liar if he didn’t say he loved Jeongguk in a suit. 

“I missed you too,” Jeongguk caressed Jimin’s cheek.

“Psst, Jimin,” Taehyung cleared his throat trying to get Jimin’s attention.

“Yeah?” Jimin responded to Jeongguk, blatantly ignoring Taehyung. He could wait. 

“What’d you get up to, my love?” Jeongguk asked.

“Jimin!” Taehyung said, much louder than the first few times.

“Oh, uh, this is my friend, Kim Taehyung,” Jimin said and Jeongguk leaned down to meet Taehyung at eye level.

“Hey, there,” Jeongguk waved.

“Howdy,” Taehyung replied.

“Thank you so much for bringing Jimin.”

“Oh, of course, no worries.”

“Do you wanna stop by for some dinner?”

“Oh, no. I couldn’t impose. It’s a—”

“No, it’s not a problem.”

“You know, I had some dinner plans—”

“Seriously, we’ve got a lot of—”

“Yeah, I’ll fucking come to dinner,” Taehyung hastily opened his car door and walked around the car to the front hood, lifting it up and rummaging around inside it. Jeongguk chuckled a bit, then brought his attention back to Jimin.

“I really did miss you,” Jimin said.

“Did you?” Jeongguk teased.

“Yes. Of course I did,” Jimin smiled.

“How was your day?” Jeongguk asked.

“It was really fun! I got to meet Taehyung’s whole family. You know, his parents, who I already knew, and his siblings and grandpa. And his dogs.”

“Yeah?”

“He has an older brother and two little twin sisters. Oh, and he dressed me,” Jimin took a step back to show off his dress a tad bit more. Taehyung appeared to be done looking through his front hood, because he was all of a sudden standing off to the side of the car with a pair of shoes and a garment bag labeled “cocktail” in his hand.

“You have a cocktail dress in your trunk?” Jimin questioned, both his and Jeongguk’s eyes on the man.

“I’m not an animal, Jimin,” Taehyung stated. Jeongguk held his arm out for Jimin to take and then led both Jimin and Taehyung inside the house. Both of their eyes wandered and found a few more guests than expected.

“I thought this was just a family thing,” Jimin said to Jeongguk.

“Grandma’s tan huas are blooming, so she’s invited some of her friends over. It’s a whole thing,” Jeongguk explained. Jimin nodded but still thought there were more people than just “some” invited. “Are you ready for this?” He asked. Jimin nodded and followed inside as the front doors were opened.

mood: love language — ariana grande 

Both Jimin and Taehyung’s jaws dropped once the doors opened and revealed the interior. Grand staircases met the front doors and all sorts of wallpapers and decorations donned the walls. Countless guests were milling and mingling about, wearing cocktail dresses and suits of all kinds. Jimin also spotted a singer with a jazz band to back her up out of the corner of his eye.

“Damn, Jeongguk. It’s a party, though, okay,” Taehyung said, grinning as he looked around the front entryway. 

Jeongguk turned to speak to Taehyung, “the good bathrooms are upstairs and—”

“Thanks, okay, I’ll find it,” Taehyung cut Jeongguk off, seemingly knowing where he was heading. He strutted off towards the stairs, taking selfies every few steps before disappearing upstairs.

“You know, when you said you grew up in your grandma’s,” Jimin began, “This isn’t quite what I expected.” Before Jeongguk could respond and server approached them, carrying two bowls of water. “Oh, thank you,” Jimin grinned and started to lift the bowl to his lips.

“Oh! No, no, no,” Jeongguk quickly stopped Jimin, “Those are for your fingers,” he explained, “Thank you very much,” he said to the server.

“Thanks,” Jimin said, now incredibly embarrassed.

“It’s okay. It’s a bit much, I know,” Jeongguk tried to reassure Jimin.

“I mean, this place is stunning. There are armed guards out there and the rolling green hills,” Jimin let himself be led by Jeongguk at the arm towards another part of the house until he abruptly stopped in front of a stuffed tiger, stunned, “and a giant tiger. That isn’t something you see everyday.” Jeongguk laughed.

“That is Mr. Horangi. I used to hear the tale of my great-grandfather shooting him right in the heart when he ran into the house,” Jeongguk started to explain, “Seokjin and I used to hide cigarettes in his paws, though, when we were kids.”

“Wanna head in?” Jimin offered.

“Actually, I wanted to bring you to my mum first,” Jeongguk took Jimin by the arm and brought him through the front room of the house, past tons of people, and finally to what looked to be a kitchen. It was more like a restaurant kitchen than a house kitchen, though.

The kitchen was bustling. Servers were plating food and choppers were chopping up vegetables. Cooks worked over stove tops that burst into flames. Amidst it all was a woman wearing a green, sleeved dress with silver accents. She seemed to be managing the kitchen workers, inspecting their every move.

“Don’t wrap it like that,” Jimin heard her say, “That’s too thick. Ah, ah, ah. Watch it. Don’t make it too soft.” She turned around and paused her ordering, smiling softly. Jeongguk walked up to her and pecked her cheek lovingly. This must have been his mother.

“Mum,” Jeongguk said, pulling away from her. She affectionately ran a hand through his hair.

“Your hair is so unkempt. You need a haircut, boy. And you look awfully tired. I’ll have the cook make you some herbal soup and then send it to your hotel,” she turned her head and said something in Korean to the cook behind her.

“Mum, this is Park Jimin,” Jeongguk introduced Jimin, grinning.

“Oh, my gosh! It is so lovely to finally meet you Mrs. Jeon!” Jimin brought Jiyoon in for a tight hug but quickly broke away from it, “Or, Auntie Jiyoon, right? I’m still learning the lingo.”

Jiyoon smiled very subtly and scanned Jimin. She seemed to be “evaluating” him.

“I’m very pleased to finally meet you as well,” Jiyoon began, “I’m so sorry  Jeongguk’s father couldn’t be here. He was called to business in Tokyo.”

“Jimin knows that when duty calls, dad answers,” Jeongguk said. The tension in the room was so thick it could be cut with a knife.

“Jeongguk tells me you're a professor? What is it you teach?” Jiyoon turned her attention back to Jimin.

“I teach economics,” Jimin answered.

“He’s absolutely brilliant too,” Jeongguk complimented, “ NYU’s youngest faculty member.” Instead of responding, Jiyoon turned her back and walked down the cooking line to fix a tray of hor d’oeuvres. 

“Economics, that sounds challenging. Are your parents academics as well?” She asked as she walked back up to Jimin and Jeongguk. Here it was. Jimin’s most dreaded question: the “what about your parents?” question or something along those lines.

“Actually, my dad died before I was born and my mom doesn’t even have a college degree. She could barely speak English when she first immigrated to the States,” Jimin could tell Jiyoon was only half-listening but kept on, “But she worked really hard waiting tables to support us while she studied and earned her real estate license. Now, she likes to say she’s one of Flushing’s top real estate brokers.”

“A self-made woman. She must be extremely proud of you,” Jiyoon said.

“Well, she knows I’m passionate about my work and she’s always wanted that for me,” Jimin replied.

“Pursuing one’s passion, how American,” she scoffed, “Your mother seems very open-minded. Not like the parents here who are obsessed with shaping the lives of their children.” Jimin opened his mouth to respond, but was interrupted by the dinner bell. 

“That’s dinner,” Jeongguk finally said.

“Go ahead. I’ll be out soon. It was lovely meeting you, Jimin,” Jiyoon said in response.

“Thank you. You too,” Jimin replied then turned away with Jeongguk by his side. Once Jiyoon was out of earshot, Jimin leaned in to whisper something into Jeongguk’s ear.

“She definitely hates me,” Jimin lamented.

“She just takes a bit to warm up to new people. That’s all,” Jeongguk defended. Jimin almost wanted to roll his eyes, but kept his composure. Jeongguk took Jimin throughout the whole house, saying hello to guests here and there. Jimin was speechless for the most part, being too stunned by the rooms he was taken through to say a word. 

After being introduced to some family friends, they entered the living room. It however looked more like an expensive club in the heart of Itaewon, Jimin thought. 

“Jeonggukie!” It was Seokjin. The only face Jimin knew.

“Ah, Seokjin hyung!” The cousins hugged then pulled apart.

“Jimin, hi!” Seokjin pulled Jimin in for a hug too which Jimin gladly reciprocated.

“It’s great to see you,” Jeongguk said, then turned to Seokjin’s husband standing at Seokjin’s side.

“It’s so good to see a face I know, Seokjin,” Jimin explained as they pulled apart. Seokjin smiled.

“This is my husband, Yoongi,” Seokjin introduced.

“Nice to meet you, Jimin. I’ve heard so much about you,” he shook Jimin’s hand firmly.

“Nice to meet you as well,” Jimin replied. Another force came barreling in behind Jimin and Jeongguk. Jimin watched as Jeongguk’s face dropped.

“Hey, the golden boy is back!” The man said, finally in Jimin’s viewpoint, “and you must be Jimin. Jeon Jeonghee. This is my wife,” he referred to the woman next to him.

“Hi I’m—”

“Her name is Taeyeon,” Jeonghee said for her, “I see you’ve already met the one and only, Prince Seokjin and his soldier toy-boy, Yoongi,” he explained, “Yoongi is actually a big-shot, tech start-up guy. So, if you forget your password, he’s your guy.” Jimin saw both Seokjin and Yoongi roll their eyes. “You’re from the Busan Plastic Parks right?” Jeonghee asked Jimin.

“Nope, never heard of them,” Jimin responded.

“Gangnam Telecom Parks?”

“No.”

“Daegu Packing Peanut Parks?”

“Is that really a thing?”

“Yeah it’s every—” Jeongguk cut Jeonghee off before he could interrogate Jimin any longer.

“Gonna take him on the rounds,” Jeongguk grabbed Jimin by the shoulders gently and led him out of there. He first brought him to two older women dressed in impecable evening wear.

“This is Auntie Haewon and Auntie Garam,” Jeongguk said.

“Hello! So nice to meet you both,” Jimin introduced himself, “I’ve never been to a Tan Hua Party before.” Garam looked unimpressed.

“We love any excuse to throw a soirée. Do you parents like to entertain… Oh! Sorry, your mother is single,” Garam said, Haewon shooting her a “don’t be insensitive” look.

“Yup,” Jimin accentuated the “p”. As he and Jeongguk were walking away from them to the next family member, Jimin realized that word of his family traveled fast around the party.

“Auntie Eunjeong, one of my parents’ oldest friends,” Jeongguk said as he and Jimin were now in front of another woman.

“I actually met Jeongguk’s father at Cambridge all those years ago. What line of work is your father in?” She asked.

“Oh, my father died before I was born,” Jimin said nonchalantly then clicked his tongue. Eunjeong took a long sip of wine, probably to drown out the horror on her face. Jimin internally winced and allowed Jeongguk to lead him on to the next new person, an older woman with gray hair, Jimin assumed it was Jeongguk’s Halmeoni.

“Jeongguk, is this your girlfriend? You should hurry up and get married,” she joked.

“Halmeoni, thank you for inviting me into your home. It’s wonderful,” Jimin smiled until a look of confusion washed over her face.

“This is Chaeyeon, my old nanny,” Jeongguk explained. Jimin blew out a sigh, his face red from embarrassment. He was mortified, absolutely mortified. Jeongguk hurried Jimin out of there and instead got him a glass of wine.

“Oh, my freaking god, Babe! I cannot believe I just did that!” Jimin ranted as they walked through the house and ended up at the bar. 

“Calm down, it’s alright. I don’t think anyone noticed,” Jeongguk chuckled a bit.

“I think I really freaked out your nan—” With an accidental flick of his wrist, Jimin spilt his drink onto Jeongguk’s white dress shirt. “Oh, shit! I’m so sorry,” Jimin cursed.

“Goodness!” Jeongguk exclaimed, “It's fine, could I have a tissue please?” Another man swooped in and handed Jeongguk his handkerchief, saving him.

“Go, go, get changed. I’ll keep Jimin company,” he explained.

“Thanks, Hobi,” Jeongguk wiped his shirt a bit then turned to Jimin, “You’re in good hands. Give me two minutes to change,” then he took off for presumably the stairs. 

“Hi, I’m Jimin,” Jimin extended his hand to Hobi who took it and shook it gently. 

“Oh, I know,” Hobi smirked. From behind his head, Jimin could make out a very familiar, yet somewhat annoying voice.

“Jimin!” Taehyung scampered up from behind and appeared at Hobi’s side, now dressed in a black, off the shoulder jumpsuit. “Jimin, I heard you thought Halmeoni was the cook!” He exclaimed, disgustingly. Jimin winced and covered his face in embarrassment once again. Quite the night for it. “Ah!” Taehyung said.

“On the bright side, you are the talk of the party,” Hobi began, “People like your dress.” Taehyung raised an eyebrow then turned to face Hobi, taking him in.

“I did that,” Taehyung said smugly.

“Oh!” Hobi exclaimed.

“I know!” Taehyung replied, grinning now.

“Such a chic, seventies goddess.”

“I know.”

“It’s giving very disco ball on the dance floor, but in the best way,” Hobi suggested.

“That is exactly what I had envisioned,” Taehyung smirked, feeling proud of himself.

“Oh, well,” Hobi extended a hand out to Taehyung, “Hoseok. I like your shoes.”

“Thank you so much, I’m Taehyung. Ditto,” Taehyung firmly shook Hoseok’s hand then held up his drink up to Hoseok’s.

“Cheers!” Hoseok laughed and clinked his glass with Taehyung’s. Jimin was dumbfounded, but also not surprised. Taehyung alway had had a knack for making easy friends over the silliest of things.

“My goodness, these are lovely,” Hoseok reached over to touch Taehyung’s earrings.

“They’re clip-ons, thank you,” Taehyung threw his drink back while Hoseok giggled.

“Are they? Wow!” Hoseok said, “They are just divine.” Jimin tried his best to stifle his laugh at the interaction by biting his lip.

“Hoseok?” Jimin asked, attempting to include himself in the conversation, “You’re a cousin, right?”

“Yes, my mother is Haewon and my brother is Jeonghee,” Hoseok lamented, his eyes brimming with disappointment at the mention of his brother. Jimin clicked his tongue in embarrassment for Hoseok, Taehyung doing the same. “We are very different people.”

“I could tell. Good thing you have the better personality out of the two of you,” Jimin complimented.

“Yes, yes. I got lucky,” Hoseok teased, “Although my career may not be as useful to the family as Jeonghee’s is, I still make myself somewhat useful. Whatever the Jeons want, I procure.” Jimin listened intently. “Golden Koi fish, Huanghuali furniture. A rare Cambodian gong.”

“Why would they want to buy a rare Cambodian gong?” Jimin questioned, chuckling, and coincidentally, Haewon and Garam banged it from the other side of the room. Taehyung and Jimin whipped their heads around at the startling sound while Hoseok continued to sip on his drink.

“Because they can,” was all Hoseok said.

“Everyone!” Haewon started, “Please begin to make your way outside and to the conservatory. We have a very special sight to see,” she smiled and Garam clapped her hands, then the gong was whisked away by the servant and the two ladies exited out the door.

“Guess we better go,” Taehyung said.

“What about Jeongguk,” Jimin asked, concerned for his boyfriend.

“Don’t you worry, darling. He will find his way,” Hoseok explained, then linked both his arms with Taehyung and Jimin, Taehyung on his right and Jimin on his left. “I wouldn’t want either of you to get lost along the way,” he grinned, then the trio set off for the conservatory.

Jimin must’ve missed it, as well as the front yard, when he and Taehyung had first arrived, because it was a whole new sight to take in once they left the house and began to head for the conservatory. Past the front driveway was a vast, open courtyard with flowers and landscaping of all kinds, statues and fountains. And at the head of it, looking over what looked like a large pond was a quaint, traditional conservatory. Haewon and Garam stood in front of the doors, grinning as they waited for guests to get closer.

“Everyone! Everyone! The tan hua flowers very rarely bloom and even then, only at night,” Haewon began.

“Their beauty is spectacular, but fleeting. By dawn, they’ll be gone,” Garam explained.

“So… come! Come take a look!” Haewon called out to the audience and then the pair stepped back so the doors could be opened, revealing the tan huas in full bloom behind them. Guests rushed to the front to get a glance at them.

Hoseok pointed out the social scene to Jimin and Taehyung, pretending to be interested in the flowers. He explained that he had seen them in full bloom countless times over the years, so this was just another evening for him.

“Looks like someone forgot to wear a bra…” Hoseok said as he motioned over to Jeonghee, an unfamiliar man, and another woman who was unfamiliar to Jimin, but he had a guess as to who they could both be. They were posing for an obnoxious photo taken by Taeyeon. Taehyung snorted and Jimin averted his eyes. 

“Kitty Lee,” Hoseok began, “an ‘actress’. Cousin Jihun’s latest flame. There’s a rumor going around that she was in a porno recently. Two girls, one cup of noodles.”

“You know, I thought I would like that more than I did,” Taehyung stated matter-of-a-factly. 

“The book is much better,” Hoseok said. They continued to walk down the courtyard to the conservatory. Jimin, distracted from their destination, caught a few people’s eyes on him.

“Is it just me? Or is everyone staring at me?” He wondered, looking down at the grass to avoid their stares.

“They’re just jealous of you,” Hoseok said like it was common knowledge. Jimin was taken aback. “You nabbed the crown prince. Jeongguk is Halmeoni’s favorite. He’s in line to inherit everything. The house, the company, the cars and planes, not to mention a hefty chunk of the fortune.” Jimin didn’t know what to think about this new information. “Speaking of the Grand-dame…” the trio had finally reached the conservatory. 

They were escorted inside and off to the side. Taehyung gasped at the sight of the flowers while Jimin watched nervously as Halmeoni entered the room and was brought to the chair. It was almost like a throne. She was dressed regal and elegantly, but seemed frail. Maybe Jeongguk would be getting that inheritance sooner or later.

As Jimin was taking it all in, feeling out of place, a familiar figure appeared behind him.

“There you are, love,” Jeongguk said, gently placing his hands on Jimin’s shoulders. “Are you ready to meet my grandmother?” Jimin nodded, a little hesitant. Jeongguk took his hand and led him through the crowd. Halmeoni’s face lit up at the sight of Jeongguk, who was grinning just as much. She reached out to hug him, then caressed his face.

“Halmeoni…” Jeongguk said.

“What’s this with not coming to see your grandmother after so long?” She teased, “you’re lucky I’m still alive. Have you eaten yet? You look like you’ve lost weight.”

“That’s because I missed your cooking.”

“You sweet talker.”

“Halmeoni,” Jeongguk pulled Jimin up to his grandmother, “this is my good friend, Park Jimin.”

“Halmeoni, thank you for inviting me into your home,” Jimin replied, trying to be as formal as possible, “Jeongguk talks about you all the time. He says no one makes better dumplings than you.” Halmeoni looked very pleased with Jimin’s introduction.

“Ah, it’s nothing. I can show you how to make them too,” she offered.

“I would be honored,” Jimin complimented.

“Then you must come back soon. When there aren’t as many people around to be bothers,” she smiled once more and nodded, gesturing for Jimin to come sit on the chair with her.

“Look!” Haewon exclaimed, “They are in full bloom!” The guests applauded the flowers, a few cheers here and there. 

While Jimin was trying his very best to stay focused on his conversation with Halmeoni, he could help but overhear Jiyoon and Eunjeong gossiping off to the side.

“It is so lovely to have Jeongguk back home, but he seems… different ,” Eunjeong said to Jiyoon. Jimin could tell she was watching him and Jeongguk embracing and laughing together. He tried not to pay mind to it.

“When children are away from home for too long, they forget who they are.”

Chapter Text

When Jeongguk had told Jimin they were to meet Namjoon and Jisoo in a hangar for their respective bachelor and bachelorette parties, Jeongguk certainly didn’t expect his boyfriend to laugh.

Now, the pair standing in a massive hangar surrounded by not only a helicopter with a bar, but also a private jet, Jeongguk could see that Jimin was internally cursing himself.

“I didn’t think you were being serious, babe,” Jimin lamented, pulling his sunglasses over his eyes.

“If there’s anything about Namjoon and Jisoo, it’s go big or go home,” Jeongguk explained, chuckling, then he stole a quick kiss from Jimin, causing the older to grin and giggle. Jeongguk was about to ask where Namjoon was before Jisoo appeared from around the corner and began strutting towards them.

“Jimin!” She exclaimed. She was dressed in a bedazzled, designer jumpsuit with glass to match and she wore her hair in a high ponytail, “I’m so happy you're here!”

“Wouldn’t miss it for the world,” Jimin replied.

“Your look… it’s brilliant,” she scanned Jimin up and down, who was wearing just a simple blouse and shorts.

“Thanks,” Jimin said hesitantly.

“He’s coming with me,” Jisoo said to Jeongguk, jokingly glaring at him through her shades. She took Jimin by the hand and began to lead him away from Jeongguk and towards the group of Jisoo’s friends. Jeongguk quickly stopped her before she could get too far.

“Hold on. Kiss,” Jeongguk pecked Jimin’s lips again, “I’ll see you in 36 hours. Goodbye, love.”

“Bye, baby,” Jimin replied.

“Noona, bring him back in one piece, please,” Jeongguk teased.

“Yeah, yeah, yeah,” Jisoo waved a hand down and walked away, dragging Jimin along with her.

“Not listening,” Jeongguk sighed and suddenly a hand was clapping on his back.

“What’s up, brother,” Namjoon said, coming around to Jeongguk’s side. The two of them watched as Seun began to head towards them from the bar, surrounded by women in skimpy swimwear.

“So, you really let Seun organize all of this?” Jeongguk asked, surprised.

“I sure did,” Namjoon clicked his tongue and fiddled with his sunglasses, “Seun.” Jeongguk waved to their childhood “friend”.

“This is for you, asshole,” Seun pointed to Namjoon. He was dressed in cargo shorts and an open, Hawaiian shirt. Namjoon and Jeongguk both grimaced, realizing the weekend they were in for.

They began to make their way to the bar as other bachelors began to arrive. Most of them were a part of Seun’s crew but Jeongguk spotted his cousins Jeonghee and Jihun as well as some of Namjoon’s buddies. 

“All I wanted was a nice weekend away with my boys,” Namjoon lamented as he sipped on his whiskey, “And some beer and some rugby.”

“I doubt we will be having just that,” Jeongguk replied, also nursing a drink.

“You know, Jisoo was the one who suggested I let Seun organize this,” Namjoon said.

“She just wants you to have a good time,” Jeongguk defended.

“I know.”

“Don’t worry, hyung. Whatever happens, I’m sure it will be great.”

“Always the optimist,” Namjoon teased. He and Jeongguk spun around on their bar stools to face Seun and the group he was in.

“Let’s make some babies!” Seun yelled, followed by hoots and hollers. Jeongguk frowned. He loved his best friend, obviously, but spending copious amounts of time with someone like Seun would get old fast. Honestly, he’d much rather be boarding that private jet to a tropical paradise with Jimin and Jisoo.

“I don’t think it will be,” Namjoon said, responding to Jeongguk’s previous statement. Seun motioned for Namjoon and Jeongguk to follow him, as well as Jeonghee and Jihun, to one of the many helicopters stationed just outside the hangar.

A pilot hopped out and helped them all into the chopper, handing them their headgear.  Namjoon and Jeongguk sat across from Seun, Jihun, and Jeonghee. Jeongguk assumed the rest of the party guests left on the hangar would be tagging along in the rest of the helicopters. 

As the helicopter was lifted into the sky, Jeongguk taking in the view as they rose up off the ground, Seun began to explain what he had planned. Although it sounded more like he was bragging about what was in store. All Jeongguk could do was roll his eyes.

“Any asshole can plan a party. Hookers, drugs, dog-fighting, that’s all minor-league shit,” Seun began. Namjoon frowned once again, “but to organize a party this crazy?”

“Takes one massive asshole,” Jeongguk mumbled for only Namjoon to hear.

“Takes a goddamn mastermind,” Seun pointed a finger to his head, probably meaning he was the mastermind here. Jeongguk was only half listening and instead, looking out his window. All he could see for miles was the ocean. Namjoon must’ve been thinking the same thing.

“Where exactly is this party?” Namjoon asked.

“See for yourself,” Seun motioned to the window on the other side of the helicopter from Namjoon. He and Jeongguk leaned over and gasped in disbelief at what they saw.

A massive cargo ship, with countless people aboard, was floating above the water waiting for them to land. It had a pool and a stage and bars and tons of seating. It was like Disneyland for adults and Jeongguk was shocked. He didn’t think Seun was capable of pulling something like this together. Namjoon only groaned. This kind of partying wasn’t up his alley.

“Bloody hell?” Namjoon questioned.

“It’ll be over quickly, hyung,” Jeongguk reassured.

“I cannot believe I got myself into this,” Namjoon sighed. Seun, Jihun, and Jeonghee continued their meaningless chatter across from Namjoon and Jeongguk, not bothering to include the groom and his best man into their conversations. Soon enough, the helicopter had landed a top the ship.

“You guys aren’t ready for this,” Seun said. Namjoon unbuckled his belt and went to exit the chopper, but was stopped. “Host first,” Seun put his hand in front of Namjoon and climbed out himself before letting anyone else. The remaining four followed and Jeongguk chuckled to himself when he saw the scene before them.

“Follow me, gentlemen,” Seun smirked and led them to the staircase leading to the base of the ship. Seun cheered and in response got even more cheers as well as confetti bursting from cannons on the ship. Jeongguk could see his cousins grinning smugly, probably thinking of all the horrible things they were going to do. Jeongguk rolled his eyes as did Namjoon.

mood: oasis - crush and ZICO

They clambered down the steps, the crown cheering Seun’s name, and reached a landing where Seun gripped Namjoon by the arm.

“This is Kim Namjoon’s last day as a single man and I want his fucking balls to break off by the end of this party!” He exclaimed. Namjoon just stood silently and accepted his fate. The crowd cheered even louder than before. They headed down all the way and were met with bikini models and douchbag guys. Jeongguk took in the party and saw they had a pool, a foam pit, rock-climbing, and an arcade of sorts. Plus countless bars.

“Anything you want, we have here,” Seun guided them through the party, a model on his arm. Jeonghee had disappeared along with Jihun already while Jeongguk and Namjoon trailed far behind.

“Smoking hot bitches, a naked foam pit—,” Seun began, but Namjoon and Jeongguk were barely listening.

“This is mad,” Namjoon said to Jeongguk. 

“And a possible human rights violation,” Jeongguk agreed.

“—they can sit on you,” Seun’s voice came back into Jeongguk’s earshot, “and to top it all off? Flown in from all over the world, 100% genuine beauty queens!” Namjoon groaned once more. “Only the best for this asshole,” Seun pointed to Namjoon.

“When you get married one day, I hope you get worse than this,” Namjoon said to Jeongguk who laughed. They abandoned their group and headed to the bar, wanting to get as far away from Seun and his lady friends as quickly as possible.

“What are we gonna do,” Namjoon wondered, sipping on a beer.

“We just can’t leave each other’s sides,” Jeongguk decided.

“Jisoo will be getting an earful when I see her tomorrow,” Namjoon face-palmed.

“Let her down easy. You don’t want to make her distraught two days before her wedding,” Jeongguk said and took a big drink of his beer, “I hope Jimin is having a good time. I feel like I kind of threw him to the wolves.”

“He’ll be alright, I’m sure. He has Jisoo and isn’t Seokjin going to be there?” Namjoon asked.

“I hope. As long as she doesn’t abandon him for her self-centered friends,” Jeongguk said in response. “I didn’t see Nayeon, though.”

“Were you worried you would?”

“Kinda, actually, she’s just awful. I know she’s mama Jimin feel horrible for no reason at all.”

“Did you tell him about her?” Namjoon wondered.

“I didn’t feel like I needed to, I guess,” Jeongguk shrugged.

“Damn, bro.”

“What?”

“You really threw him to the wolves, then.”

“It doesn’t matter anymore, whether or not she’s there. I know Jimin can handle himself. He’s strong.

“How are things with you and Jimin, anyway?” Namjoon looked over to face Jeongguk.

“They're great. As they always are,” the brunette smiled, thinking of the love of his life.

“Remind me how the both of you met again?”

“Well—” Jeongguk had been tasked, by his boss, with the assignment of sitting in on one of Jimin’s many lectures. His company was doing a review on economics and they wanted some insight from real New Yorkers. His boss had heard of Jimin from a colleague and how great of a speaker he was, so Jeongguk was sent to observe.

That day’s particular topic had been inequality and poverty under the economics umbrella. Jeongguk had admired Jimin’s passion and how he took to explaining the topic and its issues in the American economy. He could also recall the numerous glances Jeongguk received from Jimin. He continuously would flick his eyes from his students up to Jeongguk, who had been sitting way up high, close to the door. 

He had tried his best to listen to the contents and to pay attention to the PowerPoint, but Jeongguk had been mesmerized by Jimin. He was passionate, Jeongguk could already tell, but also soft and caring in the way he responded to his students. He’d needed to have a conversation with him before the day was over.

However, a surprise fire drill had rushed everyone out of the building and onto the streets. Jeongguk only had a limited amount of time and realized he needed to get back to work. Just his luck.

Throughout the next two weeks, Jeongguk had sat in on as many lectures as he could, just to hear Jimin’s voice. And not to mention, he wasn’t half-bad to look at either. Okay, who was Jeongguk kidding? Jimin was drop-dead gorgeous.

Luscious brown hair slightly fell over his forehead, almost covering his stunning eyes. His voice was filled with eloquence and poise, much like how he spoke to his students. He had a perfect body, not that it mattered to Jeongguk, and most of all, he seemed so kind.

Even though Jeongguk had continued to see Jimin, he hadn’t had the courage to speak to him for some odd reason. Probably a fear of rejection. Jeongguk would be mortified if he had spent all this time trying to talk to the brunette, only to be shut down and pushed to the side.

One particular day, though, as Jeongguk had been packing up his stuff, Jimin himself had come climbing up the stairs.

“Why is it that you’re not one of my students, yet you have been at every single one of my lectures these last few weeks?” Jimin had crossed his arms and raised an eyebrow.

“I—is there something wrong with that…? Professor?” Jeongguk had tried. What was he doing?

“I’m assuming we are around the same age, so, please don’t call me professor. Unless you’re, ya know, into that?” Jimin had smirked and stepped closer to Jeongguk. Jeongguk, picking up on the flirtatious question, had regained his confidence.

“I’ve just been enjoying watching you and listening to your voice. Your passion is admirable,” Jeongguk had explained. He’d seen a light flush appear on Jimin’s cheeks, “Will you let me take you out some time?”

“I actually have a meeting to get to but,” Jimin had whipped out a sticky note from his briefcase and a pen, then handed them both to Jeongguk, “give me your number and I’ll call you…?”

“Jeongguk,” Jeongguk had smiled and quickly wrote his number and had drawn a little heart as well. He’d bid his farewell and left the lecture with a small victory in his pocket.

“I’m assuming he called you?” Namjoon asked.

“It took a few hours, but let’s just say before the day was over, I was naked and in his bed,” Jeongguk said smugly and took a sip of his drink.

“You dirty, dirty fellow,” Namjoon teased.

Night had fallen and the pair had been forcibly sat around a fire pit with Jeonghee and Jihun as well as other guys who were surrounded by bikini models, drinks in hand. Seun was standing off to the side with a bazooka cannon containing lord knows what.

“Oh, my god, Jeongguk. What is it you're so worried about? You don’t have to keep Jimin happy. He’s just lucky to be here,” Jeonghee stated after Jeongguk had gone off on a little rant about his anxieties revolving around Jimin and his relationship with him.

“Nice, Jeonghee,” Namjoon grimaced.

“Oh, what? So do we pretend like that’s not the truth? Are we in some kinda fairy tale story that I don’t know about? Did you find a shoe at midnight and jump in a pumpkin? Yo, I got so much shit about marrying Taeyeon and her parents own the biggest shipping company in Seoul,” Jeonghee turned to face Namjoon, “Jisoo is adorable. But do you think her parents would be dropping a fortune on this wedding if her parents didn’t own a billionaire dollar resort chain? What’s Jimin bringing to the table?”

“Oh! That fact that he’s a twink,” Jihun replied, causing everyone except Namjoon and Jeongguk to laugh. Jeongguk blew out an angered breath and stood up from his seat, clearly getting ready to fight Jihun. He was however stopped by Namjoon who stood up right after him, tugging him back lightly.

“You gonna fight me, cous?” Jihun smirked and relaxed into the couch he was sitting on.

“It’s not worth it, man. They’re drunk,” Namjoon explained. Jeongguk only shook his head and began to walk away from the group.

“Hey, guys?” Seun piped up, making Jeongguk even more pissed than he already was, “this is boring. Massage time! And you, the bachelor, you’re gonna get one before this weekend is over. Or else we’re gonna tie you up and shave your coo-coo chara.” The group laughed uproariously and Seun brandished the bazooka, shooting out what looked like a t-shirt. The surrounding guests began to chant “coo-coo chara”

“We have got to get off this ship,” Jeongguk said as he and Namjoon walked away from them, heading to Namjoon’s room, a “bachelor suite” as Seun had called it, on the other side of the ship. It was a quaint space with a single king bed, a jacuzzi, and a small bathroom. Namjoon flopped down on the bed the second they entered the room.

“How did we end up here,” Namjoon rubbed his temples and chuckled in self-despair. The two of them were miserable. All Jeongguk wanted to do was see Jimin and cuddle up close with him, (and possibly have sex too). He assumed Namjoon wanted to do something similar with Jisoo.

“I think I’d rather be stuck in hell than be here,” Jeongguk complained.

“I think this is a pretty close equivalent to hell. How are we gonna get out of here,” Namjoon sat up and met Jeongguk’s eyes.

“I don’t think there is a way. We can just hang out here and lay low till the helicopter comes to pick us up tomorrow afternoon,” Jeongguk decided.

“So you’ve given up?”  Namjoon looked at Jeongguk exasperated, “What if there was a way to get a chopper here a bit earlier?”

“What are you saying, hyung?” Jeongguk teased.

“I’m saying that you have a pilot’s license and I have a friend who’s a paramedic with access to a helicopter.”

“God, you’re fucking crazy, hyung.”

“I’ll call her up! I bet she can get here as early as tomorrow morning and we will be saved,” Namjoon pulled out his phone. He must be serious about getting off the ship sooner than later.

“Okay. Sure. Say you have a way out. But don’t we have a reason? We can’t just walk out to the deck tomorrow morning and hop on a chopper and leave?”

“So we come up with a ruse,” Namjoon smirked and began to dial a number on his phone.

~~~

As the sun hit the horizon, Jeongguk and Namjoon’s plan was put into action. The guests of last night's party were wiped out on the ship, having fallen asleep on the floor. It was a completely different atmosphere from only hours prior.

The sound of a helicopter flying in woke not only the ship, but also Seun, who Jeongguk saw out of the corner of his eye run out to the deck, surrounded by bikini models. Two paramedics carrying Namjoon on a stretcher and Jeongguk cut him off before he could reach the chopper though.

“What’s going on?” Seun asked, yelling over the rotor of the helicopter.

“Namjoon’s been sick all night! The paramedics say it’s the NOROvirus, so stay back! It’s incredibly contagious!” Jeongguk pushed his hand out to signal for them to not come any closer and stay put. Seun squinted his eyes in confusion.

The paramedics loaded Namjoon into the helicopter and Jeongguk hopped up beside him. He slammed the door shut and waited for the helicopter to take off. Namjoon blew out a breath then laughed, Jeongguk doing the same. He unbuckled the stretcher and sat up.

“You’re a genius, man,” Namjoon said, smiling.

“What are bestmans for?”

The helicopter flew back to the hospital the paramedics had come from, dropped them off so they could head back to work, and Jeongguk took over, flying it to a nearby island.

“I guess that pilot’s license came in handy after all,” Jeongguk said, handing a can of beer to Namjoon. The two were now shirtless, relaxing in lounge chairs on a raft floating near a small island they had visited in the past.

“Thank you, sir,” Namjoon took a long, much-needed sip, “I think that this is the best beer I’ve ever had.”

“I’m gonna have to agree with you on that,” Jeongguk replied, looking out into the vast sea in front of them.

“You know, if it wasn’t for Jisoo, I’d ask you to marry me,” Namjoon joked, turning his head to look at Jeongguk, who all of a sudden seemed fidgety.

“Well,” Jeongguk reached into his pocket and pulled a small black box, “There is a little something that might get in the way of that,” he cracked open the box, revealing a sparkling engagement ring with a diamond set in the center of it.

“No!” Namjoon choked on his drink then leaned over to get a closer look.

“Yes.”

“Is that real?”

“Mhm,” Jeongguk confirmed.

“Wow! Yes!” Namjoon broke into a cheery grin, “Yes, man! Congratulations!” 

“God, I know,” Jeongguk said.

“That is fucking amazing!”

“I’m ready.”

“You’re ready. You’re gonna do it. Jeonggukie,” the nickname made Jeongguk smile grow even wider, “I’m really happy for you.”

mood: selfish - madison beer

“Thanks, hyung.” Namjoon blew out a breath. “But?”

“There’s no but. I really am happy for you.”

“Namjoon hyung, come on. I’ve known you since we were in diapers. I know when you’ve got something else to say,” Jeongguk explained.

“Well, actually, there is,” Namjoon began, “It wasn’t that long ago that you were sure you were moving back to Seoul. And, I mean, Jimin loves his job in New York.”

“We’re going to… figure it out.”

“You’re going to figure it out. Right. But dude…”

“Don’t, man.” Jeongguk tried.

“Ever since grade school, you were set on being the next chairman of the Jeon Family Corporation. Your family’s shining heir. You think they’re going to accept anything less than that?” Namjoon stated, getting a little worked up, “I mean, unless…” Jeongguk’s eyes said it all. “No, you’re not thinking of walking out, are you?”

“That’s not—”

“Leaving everything to bloody Jihun and Jeonghee?”

“I’m not walking out on anything or anyone. I met a boy and I fell in love and I want to marry him! It’s as simple as that,” Jeongguk explained, hoping to get some support from Namjoon.

“Uh, no. No, no, no. It is not as simple as that. And you know that,” Namjoon said with urgency, “Your family aside, have you ever thought about what your relationship with Jimin will be like if you get married?” 

“What are you saying?” Jeongguk tongued his cheek.

“What I’m saying is that you’re Jeon Jeongguk. You’re untouchable. You always have been. But Jimin’s not. Hell, you pretty much threw him into our world with no prior… anything!” Namjoon argued.

“Okay, but—”

“I’m not done yet, man!” Namjoon took a breath, “What do you think Jimin’s life is gonna be like if he takes your last name and becomes ‘Mr. Jeon Jimin’. Everyday for him is going to be a struggle. He’s going to have to fight every single day just to stay alive in your family. That’s how it’ll be and you know that too. I know you do.” All  Jeongguk could do was sigh.

“Are you sure he’s ready for that?”

“Jimin is strong.”

“Strong enough to face your family for the rest of his life?”

~~~

24 Hours Earlier

“Jimin!” Jisoo exclaimed. She was dressed in a gold, bedazzled, designer jumpsuit with glasses of the same color to match and she wore her hair in a high ponytail, “I’m so happy you're here!”

“Wouldn’t miss it for the world,” Jimin replied. Jisoo pulled him into a quick hug, pecked his cheek affectionately, and broke away with glitter in her eyes. Jimin hoped he’d feel this way someday. The wedding in a matter of days and all the preparations and planning finally coming together to create what could be the best day of their lives.

“Your look… it’s brilliant,” she scanned Jimin up and down, who was wearing just a simple blouse and shorts.

“Thanks,” Jimin said hesitantly. He felt an urge to hide behind Jeongguk and drag him back to their hotel, to the safety and security of their bed.

“He’s coming with me,” Jisoo said to Jeongguk, jokingly glaring at him through her shades. She took Jimin by the hand and began to lead him away from Jeongguk and towards the group of Jisoo’s friends. Jeongguk quickly stopped her before she could get too far.

“Hold on. Kiss,” Jeongguk pressed his lips to Jimin’s again, softly but the feeling still lingering after he pulled away, “I’ll see you in 36 hours. Goodbye, love.”

“Bye, baby,” Jimin replied.

“Noona, bring him back in one piece, please,” Jeongguk teased, calling after Jimin and Jisoo.

“Yeah, yeah, yeah,” Jisoo waved a hand down and walked away, tugging Jimin along with her. Jimin allowed himself to be led through the hangar to a group of women and men, dressed for an island retreat and drinks in hand. 

“So,” Still holding Jimin’s hand, Jisoo spun around so she could face him, “I’m gonna introduce you to my whole posse. And then we’re flying to my mum and dad’s resort in Muuido. They have closed down the whole place, just for us!” She exclaimed. Jimin listened with intent. Sure, he was looking forward to kicking back and relaxing, getting a massage, and maybe having a few too many cocktails, but after his previous interactions with Jeongguk’s family and friends, he knew it wouldn’t be all sunshine and rainbows. “We are gonna have so much fun, come, come and meet everybody.” She pulled Jimin into a circle of who he presumed were Jisoo’s closest confidants.

“Everyone, this is Park Jimin!” Jisoo explained. Jimin was met with bright smiles and an abundance of hands reaching over to shake his. A few people even hugged him quickly. Must be a wealthy people custom.

“Hi!” Jimin replied. Although Jisoo’s circle seemed friendly, Jimin could tell all eyes were on him. The middle-class outsider from America. He found himself on the outside of the circle. It wasn’t that they were purposely excluding him. What was this? Middle school? Jimin just knew he didn’t fit it. These weren’t his people and this wasn’t his kind of a party. A “party” to Jimin meant going out to Hell's Kitchen or staying in for dinner and wine. 

Jisoo was surrounded by people who seemed to be her childhood friends. They gabbed about their clothes and their handbags. Their latest one night stands and their boob jobs. Jimin, choosing to stay out of a conversation he knew his input wouldn’t be appreciated in, sipped on a Bellini that had been served to him by a shirtless waiter. He could only catch bits of the conversation. How he wished he could be with Jeongguk at the moment.

Jimin was floating between groups throughout the hangar when a black sports car pulled up and two women stepped out. They were identical in both their looks and their outfits. Same height, same hair, same eyes, same clothes.

“Seongmin! Sooha! The twins are in the house!” Jisoo shrieked and ran over to them, her heels click-clacking on the cement. Jimin, as well as the others, turned their head to see the commotion, many others following Jisoo once they saw who had arrived.

“It’s easy to make a killer entrance when you come as a matching set,” a woman who looked to be the same age as Jimin, dressed in a blue dress, holding a martini, came up beside Jimin. Jimin flinched a little, surprised at the sudden conversation. “Hi, I am Im Nayeon. We haven’t met yet.” 

“Hi there, I'm Park Jimin,” Jimin chuckled and shook her hand.

“Oh, my gosh! Your Jeongguk’s friend,” she stated.

“Yeah…” Jimin replied. Friend? 

“Word gets around fast here. You’re a professor, correct?” She asked.

“Yes. Yes, I am,” Jimin said sheepishly, “what about you?”

“I’m a lawyer. General counsel with the Jeon Family Corporation.”

“Wow. How impressive.”

“Nah. Just some good old fashioned nepotism,” Nayeon explained. Jimin was a tad taken aback by her bluntness. “I actually grew up with both Jeongguk and Namjoon. We’re family friends.”

“I cannot believe we got ourselves dragged into this,” she lamented.

“Same. When Jisoo asked me to come earlier this week, I was over the moon excited. But now…” Jimin trailed off, his small grin forming into a glum frown.

“I get what you—.”

“You two!” Jisoo called out for them as she and the rest of the party-goers drove past in a stretched golf cart, “Come on! We’re wheels up in five!”

“Ready to do this?” Jimin asked, heading for the back seat of the golf cart, “let’s go.” 

“Fuck, yeah!” Nayeon followed Jimin and sat down beside him, her drink almost spilling out of the cup. They were dropped off at the jet a ways down the runway. It was white all over with gold details and what Jimin assumed was the Kim family logo. 

As Jimin entered the plane, his drink nearly empty from stress-sipping, his jaw dropped. The jet had a bar, massage chairs, and whatever else a rich person would want on a plane. 

“Is this what all the parties here are like?” He pondered as he took a seat next to Nayeon. 

“For the most part,” Nayeon shrugged and Jimin chuckled. He found himself feeling lucky to have clicked with someone so fast. The whole morning before as well as the ride to the hangar, Jimin had been a nervous wreck. All he could think about was the fact he'd probably be left to his lonesome for the majority of the party. Sure, Jeongguk had reassured him and promised he’d have a good time, but Jimin had a hard time believing that. However, with Nayeon and hopefully Seokjin arriving later, he held hope for himself to have a good time.

“Has Jeongguk never taken you out with him?” Nayeon took a sip from her drink, the martini having been swapped out for red wine.

“Of course.” Jimin answered, hesitating briefly. Nayeon quirked her eyebrow. “Don’t give me that look,” Jimin retorted dramatically.

“Define going out for the two of you,” She said.

“Well, I guess… When we go out in New York it normally consists of going out with my friends. Or just spending time with each other,” Jimin explained. 

“So you two are one of those couples that stays for quick small talk then dips to bang each other?” Nayeon said nonchalantly. Jimin gasped, lightly pushing her shoulder. “Does he never take you out for fancy dinners or limo rides?”

“I didn’t know Jeongguk was able to afford all of that stuff until recently! And, I don’t know if you were aware of this, but I didn’t even know the details of Jeongguk’s family and their wealth entirely until yesterday.”

“How interesting,” Nayeon replied. Her eyes seemed to be scanning Jimin up and down, like she was searching for vulnerability in Jimin. The rest of the plane ride consisted of light chatter and an open bar. Jimin couldn’t complain. He was riding in a private plane for free, surrounded by rich people and their gossip. 

When the plane landed, Jimin’s jaw once again dropped. They deplaned onto a sandy beach with palm trees and the ocean surrounding them. It seemed as though they were at a resort as well.

“Welcome to paradise,” the group had gathered in front of Jisoo, who was now atop a platform, addressing everyone, “This is Muuido Island. This weekend is about peace and finding the divine within all of us. So… I hope you all find your bliss, starting with… an all-paid shopping spree at the fashion boutique!” Screams erupted from the crowd and people began to rush down the beach to the boutique. Jimin shook his head in disbelief and looked over at Nayeon. Jisoo came running over and grabbed Jimin’s hand once again.

“Come on!” She led him away and motioned for Nayeon to follow. As they sauntered down the beach, they passed by countless rows of lounge chairs and cabanas. Open bars and swimming pools. Jimin couldn’t even make out where the rooms were because of the resort’s vast layout. Soon enough though, they reached the boutique.

It was chaos. People left and right were fighting over clothes and playing tug-of-war with purses. Jimin, who still thought it was all crazy, however, didn't want to pass up an opportunity for something free. Most of his paycheck went to his half of Jeongguk’s and his rent and groceries.

He had selected a few things off the rack—a couple dresses, a pair of jeans, and a sweater—and tried them on in one of the fitting rooms. He had never loved shopping or trying clothes on. He much preferred to be dressed, but that only happened to him once in a blue moon. From the fitting room he had occupied, Jimin could overhear the cat fights taking place outside his space.

“Bitch! I saw this first!”

“But you have ping-pong tits!”

Oh! What about your mosquito bites!”

“Fuck you!”

“You know it’s true!”

Jimin laughed in disbelief. He exited the fitting room, donning a pale blue, summer dress, with embroidered sunflowers covering the material. After checking himself out in the mirror, his eyes found themselves landing on Jisoo, who was parading around the boutique, a stopwatch in hand.

“One more minute! One more minute!” She announced. Jimin could only watch the carnage, incredibly confused.

“No one loves free stuff more than rich people,” Nayeon had appeared at Jimin’s side. She always seemed to be lurking nearby. “Just the one dress for you?” She gave Jimin a once over, one of her eyebrows lifted.

“I’m really not in the mood to lose any limbs,” Jimin replied. It had been enough work to find a free dressing room. Nayeon laughed and turned to face a table of jewelry.

“Well, in that case… one last touch,” she spun back around, this time a dainty silver necklace in hand, and placed it over Jimin’s head. “Isn’t Jeongguk a lucky guy?” Jimin grinned and nodded his head in agreement. There was something about Seoul that made Jimin look better than he ever had before. Or maybe it was just the money he was surrounded with.

“Times up!” Everyone whipped their heads to face Jisoo, who’s timer had just beeped. “Next stop… spa!” Everyone cheered at the announcement and rushed to gather their belongings.

~~~

Jimin was now nude, only covered with a towel as he lay on a massage table. To his left was Nayeon who was in a similar situation. Jisoo had taken them to a series of cabanas where masseuses were awaiting their arrival. They had been ushered to a locker room to change into their personalized robes and then each been assigned a masseuse.

“I think my masseuse just got me pregnant,” Jimin groaned as the masseuse rubbed out the knots in his back. The last time Jimin had gotten a massage was middle school. He was twelve and had torn his ACL. Thus requiring physical therapy which meant free, thirty-minute massages four days a week.

“I can see why Jeongguk put off coming back to Seoul,” Nayeon said, laughing at Jimin’s remark. 

mood: because I liked a boy - sabrina carpenter 

“What do you mean?” Jimin questioned. How many secrets was Jimin going to be bombarded with on this trip? How much had Jeongguk been keeping from him?

“Oh, you know? He was supposed to come home last year and take over the family business. His parents freaked the fuck out when he didn’t. But, now that he has come back, I’m sure all is forgiven,” Nayeon explained. Jimin’s heart began to sink from his chest to his stomach. He couldn’t recall a single conversation discussing Jeongguk making plans to travel home. Even though a year ago they had only just begun going out, Jimin wished he’d had some kind of explanations for everything revealed to him on this trip.

“But, he’s not back for good. We’re just here for a wedding,” Jimin tried. Nayeon turned her head to face Jimin and looked at him sympathetically, sighing. Jimin was turned over onto his back, now looking up at the ceiling. He pursed his lips and clutched his towel tightly around his body.

“I have always thought it was hard,” Nayeon began, finally breaking the few minutes of silence between them.

“What?”

“Knowing where you stand with a guy like Jeongguk. He’s got loads of pressure on his shoulders from his family. Not just in business, but in who he’s dating. It’s like… you never know what's going on in that gorgeous head of his,” Nayeon said, a sly grin spreading across her face. Jimin blinked in disbelief. What the fuck? Jimin didn’t know who Nayeon thought she was, but she’d overstepped. Regardless of Jimin’s current position. 

“Jeongguk told you that we were together, right?” Jimin sat up at this revelation, heart in his throat. He didn’t think he’d be able to defend himself if he tried. All his words shriveled up the moment they landed on his tongue.. “It’s ancient history now, though. Although our families, particularly his mother, wanted us to get married. I guess we weren’t ready then.” 

Jimin thought he might cry. Not in front of Nayeon, though. Never in front of these two-faced, back-stabbing bitches. He stood up from the table and motioned for his robe. The masseuse didn’t even question his leaving and handed the cloth to him. All Jimin wanted to do was go back to his room and sleep and cry for hours.

“I really admire you, you know? It takes guts to come over here and face Jeongguk’s family,” Nayeon said, her siren eyes locked on Jimin’s teary ones. “Especially when Jiyoon isn’t exactly in your corner.”  He was going to vomit. Jimin was going to vomit right then and there. After tying up his robe and grabbing his phone, he took off from the cabana. 

“I heard he told Seongmin that Jeongguk is a good catch,” Jimin could hear two other women’s conversation as he evaded the spa. The same two women Jimin had overheard in the boutique earlier.

“So typical. He’s not even that good looking, it’s like he’s never heard of plastic surgery,” one of them laughed.

“Oh, shit!” The other one replied, giggling as well. Jimin could feel their eyes on him, following his every move. Like he had a target on his back with the words “HIT ME” scrawled above it. This was what he had been afraid of. Jimin had zero clue where he was heading. All that was in his mind was flee. Get out of there and never show his face again. Not even looking ahead of him, Jimin collided with a man.

“Sorry,” he offered weakly, wiping his tears.

“Jimin?” It was Seokjin. He took off his glasses, his eyes apologetic as he looked down at Jimin. Never in his life has Jimin felt so relieved to see one of the Jeon Clan members.

“Oh, my god. Thank fucking god it’s you,” Jimin rushed over to him and fell into his arms, wrapping his own around Seokjin’s frame. He wept into his shoulder as Seokjin rubbed his back. Jimin had hoped he would have reached his bed first, but Seokjin was the next best thing. 

“What happened to you?” They pulled apart. Seokjin wiped one of Jimin’s tears and offered him his hand. “These girls aren’t worth your tears.” They began to walk side-by-side towards Jimin’s room as he tried his best to explain what he had been told. All the snide remarks and back-handed compliments. Seokjin could only offer apologies and words of remorse. 

“I guess I never realized how bad they were,” he explained. “Yoongi would never venture far from my side at family gatherings. The man is shy as hell.” Jimin chuckled a bit at Seokjin’s words, sniffling as his tears finally seemed to cease.

“I’m so sorry,” Seokjin said once more as they reached Jimin’s room. 

“It’s okay,” Jimin replied, throwing his phone on the table and taking a deep breath.

“Let’s just forget about them and camp out here. We can order room service and—.”

“AHH!” Jimin shrieked, his heart beating a million miles a minute. Laid out on his bed was a bloody, gutted fish. Red was smeared all over the white sheets and written on the window above the bed was “ CATCH THIS YOU GOLD DIGGING BITCH”.

“What the fuck!” Jimin cried.

“I’ll call security,” Seokjin was heading for the room phone the second he saw the scene before them.

“No,” Jimin waved his hand, stopping Seokjin, “I’m not gonna make a scene. I’m not gonna give them the satisfaction.” Jimin huffed and went to work finding something to wrap the carcass in. Seokjin seemed mildly confused but followed Jimin’s instructions to collect some shovels and find an empty place on the beach. 

Jimin wasn’t one for screaming and throwing fits, carrying on with his day afterwards, and he certainly wasn’t going to now. Nayeon wanted Jimin to fall for her petty moves. No way in hell was Jimin letting that happen. Sure he had shed tears, but Nayeon would never see them.

The sun had now set on the horizon, enveloping the beach in a moonlit haze. The drunken bachelors and bachelorettes were dancing in the sand, drinks in hands and shoes off feet, to a DJ. Jimin wished he could be wearing a flowy summer dress, sand in between his toes as he happily twirled around, but instead he and Seokjin were further down the beach, away from the party, a nearly dug out hole in front of them. To their side was the fish from Jimin’s room, wrapped in linens Jimin had found in one of the bathroom cabinets.

“This weekend was supposed to be mani-pedis, cocktails served in coconuts and pineapples. This was definitely not on the menu,” Jimin ranted as he and Seokjin continued to dig up the hole. They set their shovels down after Seokjin threw back one last scoop of sand and Jimin heaved the fish into the hole, the linens blood-soaked and torn through in certain spots.

“Why would Jisoo even have friends like that?” Jimin questioned as they now began to bury the fish, tossing sand back over it like it never existed in the first place

mood: affluenza - conan gray 

“When you grow up together with someone for your lives, you begin to make excuses for them. Even the morons,” Seokjin explained. He looked glum, like this kind of thing happened more often than not.

“Don’t tell me they pull things like this a lot?” Jimin asked, looking over at Seokjin.

“Only when they’re intimidated,” he replied, smirking a tad. Jimin playfully scoffed. He and Seokjin continued with the task at hand until the moon had risen much higher in the sky. Jimin was exhausted and sweaty. He wanted nothing more than to rip off his fish-scented clothes and dive into the sea.

“I mean, I know Yoongi didn’t have to go through all of this. Not the catty, fish-killing sociopaths. How did you two get through all this?” Jimin wondered as he and Seokjin took a seat on the sand in front of their covered hole.

“We didn’t have it quite this bad, but it wasn’t pretty,” Seokjin trailed off. He refused to meet Jimin’s eyes, instead staring out at the dark blue of the ocean water.

“At least tell me if it gets better?” Jimin wondered, grinning obliviously. 

“Of course it does,” Seokjin breathed. Something was off. 

“You okay?” Jimin turned to face Seokjin, placing a hand on his shoulder. 

“Yeah…” Seokjin shuddered. He wiped his eyes and blew out another breath, trying to push his problems aside.

“You can talk to me,” Jimin reassured. He wanted to be there for his friend.

“Actually… no.” Seokjin was close to tears, “Yoongi is.. um, having an affair.” Jimin’s heart dropped for the umpteenth time today.

“I’m really sorry, hyung,” he tried. Seokjin managed a smile and nodded in appreciation. “How did you find out?”

“It was yesterday at dinner actually… I had brought him a plate to the usual couch we claimed at family events. But of course, I had forgotten silverware. Of all the dumbest fucking things,” He quietly cursed, but continued, “Yoongi ran off again to get some and his phone began to r-ring. It was a message from another woman…” Jimin wanted to shed tears for Seokjin. He could never imagine the feeling of thinking your so worthless that your one true love would cheat. 

“I don’t know what I’m going to do,” Seokjin held his face in the palm of his hand, “I mean— we’ve been married for almost ten years! And we have a daughter,” he whimpered, finally boring his head back up. Jimin only nodded and took Seokjin’s hand in his. His head fell on Jimin’s shoulder as the pair watched the waves crash on the shore. A peaceful calm before the true storm.

~~~

Jimin had been waiting in the hotel lobby for over an hour. His plane had arrived not too long ago, however much to his dismay, Jeongguk hadn’t gotten back yet. He’d frowned at the plane hangar then allowed himself to be taxied back to the hotel. Now he was sitting on one of the many couches, barely skimming a magazine. He couldn’t stop thinking about the fish. It haunted him during his sleep the previous night. Jimin was startled out of his tears when a bag was thrown down in front of him, but then Jeongguk appeared.

“I thought I was here to meet your family,” Jimin began, chucking his magazine onto the table and deciding to get right to the point. Jeongguk took a seat next to him, “Go to your best friend’s wedding, eat some good fucking food. But instead, I feel like I’m a soap opera villain who’s plotting to steal your family’s fortune.” Jeongguk blanched.

“What happened?” he asked.

“I met Nayeon. She told me that everyone here thinks that I'm the evil person that prevented you from moving back to Singapore last

year, but I didn't even know you were supposed to come home,” Jimin threw his hands up and groaned. “And you two dated! Why don’t you tell me anything, Jeongguk!”

“You have every reason to be upset.”

“I’m not done yet!” Jimin crossed his arms, “There was also

the gutted, bloody fish that Jisoo’s friends left for me in my hotel room on my bed next to the words ‘CATCH THIS YOU GOLD DIGGING BITCH’ ... written in big fat serial-killer letters—.”

“Is that all that happened? Please tell me that's all that happened?” Jeongguk pleaded.

“You know what? I don’t even care about those stupid girls with their stupid designer fucking handbags and sunglasses. I don’t care that your ex-girlfriend told me all this shit! What I do care about is the fact that you didn’t tell me any of it!” Jimin huffed.

“I fucked up,” Jeongguk replied.

“Why?”

“I really fucked up, okay?” 

“Why? What—were you trying to test me or something crazy. Why would you not tell me any of this? Does our relationship mean nothing to you! Does loyalty!?” Jimin asked, feeling enraged.

“I made a mistake. Look, when we first met, you had no clue who I was. You didn’t care!” Jeongguk explained, “about my family, about my money, about any of it!”

“Yeah, I don’t care about any of that stupid stuff.”

“That’s exactly it,” Jeongguk took Jimin’s hand, “You are so different from any of the people I grew up with. And I love who I am around you. I know that’s selfish, but it’s the truth.”

“Mhm,” Jimin tsked.

“I’m sorry that you had to deal with that on your own. But I’m here now. And whatever happens, we’ll get through it together,” Jeongguk’s eyes softened as Jimin rested his head on Jeongguk’s chest. Jimin scoffed. “All right?”

“It was so gross. But I buried it,” Jimin said. 

“You dealt with it,” Jeongguk held Jimin as the pair laughed.

“You know what? We need to do something that is just us,” Jimin exclaimed.

“I 100% agree,” Jeongguk replied.

“But…?”

“But we do have to go make some dumplings first.”

Jimin could only sigh, dreading the next gathering he’d have to attend.

Chapter Text

Dumplings, Jimin had learned, were a tradition for rehearsal dinners in Jeongguk’s families. It was also tradition that instead of catering them, the family of the best man was to make them. However, the Jeons doing something themselves seemed too far fetched Jimin thought as he and Jeongguk walked up the front cul de sac to the house.

Of course, Jimin’s suspicions had been right. Upon arrival into the dining room, Jimin could spot at least a dozen maids mixing up the meat filling and rolling out the dough for the dumplings.

“I thought you said the family made them?” Jimin questioned as he and Jeongguk walked hand in hand to the dining room where Seokjin, Hoseok, Jiyoon, Garam, Haewon and Seokjin’s daughter, Kijoon seemed to already be at least an hour into preparing the rehearsal dinner meal. 

“We do, the maids just prepare the dough and the filling,” Jeongguk explained. Jimin hummed and scanned the table from afar.

Plates of mincemeat balls waiting to be folded in and rolls of dough were scattered across the large table. And at the end were filled bamboo steamers, waiting to be shipped off to the rehearsal dinner venue. 

“Ah, Jeonggukie, Jimin! There you two are!” Seokjin exclaimed as Jimin and Jeongguk entered the room, making their presence known.

“What took you so long, boy?” Garam teased, “we have been hard at work for quite some time.”

“Apologies for our tardiness, we got caught up in traffic,” Jeongguk explained  as he and Jimin took a seat at the far end of the table, directly across from Jiyoon. The woman flashed her eyes at Jimin in what he thought looked like disgust before smiling (barely) then turning her attention back to her dumplings.

Jeongguk and Jimin were quickly given their own dough and following Jeongguk, Jimin got to work as best he could.

“I can’t believe you’ve never made dumplings before,” Jeongguk complimented Jimin as he finished his first basket and was handed a fresh, empty one. 

“I’m not completely clueless,” Jimin laughed and Jeongguk kissed his cheek affectionately. Jimin swore he could hear Jiyoon scoffing from across the table. He chose to ignore it instead and put his attention on the rest of the table, who were having their own conversations in small circles.

“We have got to make sure we don’t run out of baskets this time. You remember Jeonghee and Taeyeon’s wedding, right?” Haewon said to Garam. She was paying almost all of her attention on her son and granddaughter.

“Yes, right,” she replied, half-listening.

“You aren’t listening to me,” Haewon huffed then giggled to herself.

“I think we’ll be alright, mother,” Hoseok chimes in, much to Haewon’s pleasure.

“What happened at Jeonghee and Taeyeon’s wedding?” Jimin wondered.

“Well,” Jeongguk began, “as you’ve learned, it is tradition in our family to make dumplings for any sort of rehearsal dinner. We had made well over the amount needed for everyone who RSVP'd, but all of Jeonghee’s university friends had showed up unexpectedly and eaten all of them.” Jimin gasped in disbelief.

“Taeyeon was furious. She almost didn’t marry him the next day,” Haewon finished. Jimin could believe that easily. He was pretty certain that was where Jeonghee and Taeyeon’s problems with their marriage began, and they hadn’t even been officially married yet.

“Kijoon, that’s not how you do it,” Seokjin exclaimed, immediately reaching over his daughter to fix her dumplings. She had made them into flattened balls, the opposite of what she had been taught. Jimin chuckled to himself at the sight of someone so poised and composed freaking out over his child’s poorly made dumplings. “Yes, very good.” Kijoon had fixed them and beamed with pride at her father’s praise. “Now you roll it up.”

Jimin noticed as Jiyoon stood up from her seat and stalked down the dining table, inspecting each and every dumpling. Disappointment flashed over her eyes when she saw Jimin’s. He gulped and did his best to fix them. Jiyoon only hummed in disapproval as she sat back down and dissolved into conversation with Jeongguk.

“This is too much,” Garam exclaimed as she eyed dozens of trays waiting to be folded into dumplings, “we’re having a rehearsal dinner, not feeding an army.”

“Always best to have too many as opposed to people calling us stingy,” Jiyoon responded. Garam only rolled her eyes at her sister-in-law. 

“Right, like a family with our resources would ever be called stingy.”

After the once-over from Jiyoon, Jimin all of sudden could no longer fold the dumplings the way they were meant to be. The dough wouldn’t stick together and his meat was flattened. He sniffled quietly in frustration and looked up at Jeongguk, his eyes begging for help.

“Need some help?” Jeongguk asked, concerned for his boyfriend.

“Please,” Jimin let out a breathy laugh.

“Okay,” Jeongguk pulled over a plate of dough and grabbed a handful of mincemeat, “You put the baby in the bed, tuck, tuck, tuck. Same on the other side, then give it a kiss Goodnight,” he explained, hoping the terms from his childhood would seem less overwhelming to Jimin.

“That’s so cute,” he commented, “then you eat the baby.”

“Then you eat the baby,” Jeongguk chuckled at his boyfriend and passed the plate back down to him.

“Did Halmeoni teach you that?” Jimin questioned.

“She did,” Jeongguk answered, finishing up another basket.

“I, on the other hand,” Hoseok interjected, “I was taught by Grand Aunty Sooyun. You put the botox in the face, and you pinch, pinch, pinch, then voila!” He showed off his dumpling to the table and smiled proudly. 

“That’s great. Did you guys all learn when you were kids,” Jimin asked.

“We didn’t have a choice,” Seokjin explained, nodding to Kijoon who was pounding balls of dough happily with her fist.

“We taught you so you’d know the blood, sweat, and tears it took to raise and feed you crazy kids,” Garam teased.

“Not like foreigners who microwave mac and cheese for their own children,” Haewon shuddered, “No wonder they put their parents in old folk homes when they grow up.”

“I know,” Garam hummed in agreement. Clearly she and Haewon were closer to each other than they were to Jiyoon.

“Halmeoni says that if we don’t pass down traditions like this, they die,” Jiyoon said.

“Oh, God forbid we lose the ancient tradition of guilting your children,” Seokjin joked to Jimin. He grinned while the others laughed in unison. 

“I think personally that it’s totally worth it. Mother used to wait for me after school with a nice basket of these,” Jeongguk said.

“Lucky you,” Haewon said. Jiyoon smiled fondly, it was the first real grin Jimin had seen on her face all week.

“Hey, I never got after school dumplings,” Seokjin complained to Garam.

“That’s because Auntie Garam was busy doing microdermabrasion,” Hoseok smirked.

“You smart ass! If your grandfather was alive he’d kick you into next week!” Garam chucked a piece of dough across the table, it bouncing off Hoseok’s silk button down shirt.

“Auntie! This is Miu Miu!” He brushed off his shirt and sighed. The table erupted into familial laughter, Jimin included.

“What’s got you so giddy, Jimin?” Haewon raised an eyebrow curiously.

“Oh, nothing. It’s just great seeing you all here like this,” Jimin tried. The family exchanged questioning looks with each other. “Growing up, it was just me and my mom. Which, don’t get me wrong, I loved. But we, uh, didn’t really have a big family like this. It’s nice,” he explained. Hoseok smiled fondly at Jimin.

“That’s so lovely of you to say, Jimin. We are all so very lucky to have each other,” Hoseok replied. Haewon and Garam nodded in approval at Jimin then went back to their own conversation. Jimin felt all of a sudden much more comfortable. He noticed Jiyoon hadn’t chimed in for some time and wanted to attempt to bring her back into the conversation. He found the perfect moment when he spotted the gold ring with a large emerald set in stone on her hand.

“That’s a beautiful ring, Auntie Jiyoon. I’ve never seen anything like it,” Jimin complimented innocently. He caught the eyes of Garam and Haewon, gauging out Jiyoon’s reaction.

“Jeongguk’s father had it made when he proposed,” she explained, surprised at the comment. 

“Aw, that’s so romantic. How did you guys meet?” Jimin asked.

“They actually met at Cambridge,” Jeongguk answered for Jiyoon, “Both studying law.”

“I didn’t know you were a lawyer,” Jimin said, his hands folding over a dumpling.

“I wasn’t,” Jiyoon said matter-of-a-factly, “I withdrew from university when we got married.”

“Oh…” Jimin but his tongue, deciding he’d hit a nerve and that it’d be best to switch topics.

“I chose to help my husband run a business and start a family. For me, it was a privilege,” Jiyoon started, her eyes narrowing, “But in your eyes you might think it’s old-fashioned… It’s so nice that you appreciate this family and our house. Us being here together, wrapping dumplings. But all of this doesn’t just happen like magic. It’s because we here know that family comes first in any situation, unlike chasing one’s passion, something so very selfish.” 

Jimin let out a shaky breath as she finished explaining. An awkward silence fell over the room and Jiyoon was shooting daggers at Jimin. All he wanted to do was crawl under the table and dig himself a hole.

Always saying the wrong thing.

Before anything else could be said, Halmeoni entered the room, her maids at either side. Everyone seemed to forget about the conversation and rushed to their feet, hurrying over to Halmeoni’s side.

“Halmeoni.”

“Halmeoni.”

“Halmeoni.” It was like dominoes the way everyone stood up in a tandem. 

“Thank you,” Jeongguk said to the maids as they stepped back and he took Halmeoni’s arm. “Halmeoni.”

“Oh, sweet boy,” She cupped his cheek affectionately. 

“Please, come and sit,” Jeongguk motioned for her to sit at the head of the table. 

“Oh! You brought Jimin!” She gestured for Jimin to come closer and reached her hand out, gently holding his chin. She inspected his face, a look of scrutiny on her own. “I can see you more clearly during the day. The shape of your nose is very auspicious. Let me have a look.” Jimin took two steps forward and allowed the woman to tilt his face up with her finger. “Very nice looking,” she finished. Jimin grinned from ear to ear. He felt unsure of the interaction, but any approval must be good. 

“Let’s sit,” she said and Jeongguk brought her over to her chair while everyone took their own seats once again. 

“We’re almost done, Halmeoni. Just a few more baskets,” Hoseok explained. 

“You made those dumplings?” Halmeoni questioned Jiyoon, “They don’t look very good. You’ve lost your touch,” she decided. Seokjin glanced over to Jimin after observing the exchange, looking for some sort of acknowledgment. Jimin widened his eyes, feeling a little uncomfortable all of a sudden. One moment, Halmeoni was a sweet woman with kind words of approval and the next she was blatantly honest. 

“I’m gonna go to bathroom,” Jimin said to no one but Jeongguk. He nodded in response and Jimin quickly stood up from his seat and exited the room. He ended up in the main entryway and made the decision to take the stairs after remembering Jeongguk saying the good bathrooms were upstairs the night of the party.

 Jimin, of course, couldn’t remember which direction Taehyung had taken. He walked up a few steps then went left before turning back around to go right. However, upon turning around, he was met with Jiyoon who was clambering up the stairs behind Jimin.

“Oh!” Jimin said in surprise. “Hi.”

“Hello,” Jiyoon replied.

“I think I’m a little lost. This house is pretty big,” Jimin wanted to shrink up and die. Of all the people to run into without Jeongguk at his side, it had to be Jiyoon.

mood: norman fucking rockwell - lana del rey 

“I’m glad I found you,” she took a few more steps up until both she and Jimin were face-to-face on the landing. “I feel afraid that I’ve been a little unfair.”

“Oh, no. I shouldn’t have made an assumption. I didn’t mean to offend you,” Jimin apologized.

“Not at all,” Jiyoon waved her hands down, “You asked about my ring.” Jimin nodded. “The truth is that Jeongguk’s father had it made when he wanted to propose to me. But not because he wanted to get a custom ring, but because Halmeoni wouldn’t give him the family ring. I wasn’t her first choice. Honestly? I wasn’t her second.”

“O—oh, gosh. I’m so sorry. I had no idea,” Jimin said, taking a step back.

“I didn’t come from the right family,” Jiyoon began, “I didn’t have the right connections. Halmeoni believed that I wouldn’t make an adequate wife for her son.” Jimin’s mouth went agape. He was shocked at how much Jiyoon was telling him. 

“But, she came around, obviously,” Jimin responded, hoping to get a good reaction. All Jiyoon did was give Jimin a tight smile, shaking her head slightly.

“It took many years. She had good reasoned to be concerned. Because I had no idea the work and the sacrifice it would take,” she stepped forward, backing Jimin up to the wall practically. “There were many days where I wondered if I would ever measure up. Sometimes I imagined leaving it all behind and starting fresh. I’d be without my family, but at least I’d be happy” She paused. Jimin realized for the first time how fast his heart was beating. He wanted to cry. He wanted to run from this house and into the arms of his own mother, a much warmer and comforting person than Jiyoon would ever be.

“But… having been through it all, I know this: you will never be enough ,” Jiyoon was so close to Jimin he could feel her breath. He felt eviscerated, his eyes widened with fear and his palms sweaty. Jiyoon drew back, placid and calm as if she hadn’t just made Jimin want to vomit. “We should head back,” she began to make her way down the stairs, “I wouldn’t want Jeongguk to worry.” 

Instead of going back to the dining room, Jimin hurried up the stairs and stumbled across a bathroom, finally. He shut and locked the door, turned on the facet, and fell to his knees in front of the open toilet. Then, he threw up his lunch and everything else he had consumed that day, including Jiyoon’s underhanded insults.

Jimin whimpered to himself as he slumped against the wall. Feeling defeated, he broke down into tears and cried silently into his hands. It wasn’t even just the conversation with Jiyoon. It was the fish, the bachelorette party, Jisoo’s friends, the dinner party, even learning about Jeongguk’s family from the Kims. It was all too much.

Wiping his tears, Jimin flushed the toilet and washed his hands. He spent a few more minutes trying his best to make it look like he hadn’t been sobbing just a minute ago then he exited the bathroom and made his way back to the dining room. Upon arrival, he didn’t even bother to look at Jiyoon and instead walked over to Jeongguk’s side. 

“Baby! There you are,” Jeongguk exclaimed, smiling at the sight of Jimin.

“Can we go?” Jimin asked, leaning over so only Jeongguk could hear. When he stood back up straight, a look of confusion was etched on Jeongguk’s face. 

“Why? What’s wrong?” Jeongguk pondered.

“Please,” Jimin mouthed. Jeongguk seemed to have taken the hint and quickly stood up. 

“We’re off, everyone,” he announced to his family.

“Oh, leaving so soon?” Haewon pouted.

“See you at the rehearsal tonight everyone,” he and Jimin waved goodbye then left the room. Once outside, a valet brought around their car and escorted the pair into it. 

“Thank you,” Jeongguk tipped the valet and then drove off. He tried to make small talk with Jimin, but the blonde wasn’t in the mood for any conversation. 

“You okay?” Jeongguk asked after at least ten minutes of silence save for the radio. 

“Hm?” Jimin blinked out of his daze and looked over at Jeongguk, “Oh, yeah. Yeah, I’m fine.” All Jimin could see when he looked at Jeongguk was Jiyoon’s disgusted face. He bit his lip and whipped his head away to glance out the window. 

“I know my mum can be tough at times, but there isn’t anything she wouldn’t do for me…” Jeongguk explained, “And there’s a reason why I lived with Halmeoni growing up. My mother knew she wasn’t the favorite, so she let her raise me so I would be.”

“You were just a kid?” Jimin breathed, his face now glum. Jeongguk nodded, his hand gripping the steering wheel so tightly his skin was turning white, Jimin noticed out of the corner of his eye.

“It’s hard to understand from the outside. But, she did what she thought was best for the family, for everyone involved,” Jeongguk defended. All Jimin took from that was the reminder of his outsiderness, his inability to truly understand. He clicked his tongue as he thought about Jeongguk’s regard for his mother. If only he knew. 

Jimin didn’t want to imagine the countless other women and men that had been pushed away and ran from Jeongguk’s life all because of his mother. It brought a wave of unsettling emotions over Jimin. How could he defend such a ruthless woman with no disregard for anyone but her own family? Sure, Jimin could see that all Jiyoon wanted to do was protect her family and her only son, doing absolutely anything for him, but taking away the happiness out of Jeongguk's life? Jimin would never see the reasons behind that. 

“Anyway, I think I’ve had quite enough dumplings for the rest of my life,” Jeongguk joked, trying to lighten the mood, “What should we do? Barbecue? movies? Anything you like, really.”

“Can we just go back to the hotel?” Jimin offered meekly. He needed to forget about the day and put on his pajamas, then crawl into bed with a glass of wine and Jeongguk.

“Oh, sure. How about we order room service?”

“That sounds perfect.”

~~~

Immediately after having been fucked three ways into next week, Jimin ran to the bathroom and called up Taehyung. The pair hadn’t made any more plans to meet up while Jimin was here, considering all the wedding festivities and events, but Jimin had to see Taehyung in person.

There was absolutely no way he could keep his recent encounters bottled up inside. It was driving him crazy, not being able to even talk to Jeongguk about it. It was only a matter of time before Jimin would burst.

So, here he sat in what Taehyung said was the best place to get coffee in all of Seoul, waiting in agony for his best friend to show up.

“Jiminie! Sorry I got stuck in traffic,” Taehyung came into view from the front of the patio, “some people just don’t know how to fucking drive.” Jimin only rolled his eyes playfully, his smile breaking into a chuckle as Taehyung took his seat across from Jimin.

“I already ordered, don’t worry,” Jimin explained when Taehyung tried to call over a waiter. Taehyung set his hand down and raised his eyebrow.

“How can I trust you ordered me something I’ll enjoy?” He questioned. 

“Taehyung, really? We were roommates for four years. I think I know how you like your tea,” Jimin answered, dramatically taking Taehyung’s hands in his. Taehyung hummed.

“Tea… smart choice,” He nodded and leaned back. “So, how was dumplings?” Jimin sighed in response instead of using his words. “That bad?”

“I was ridiculed!” Jimin began, “Like, all I did was accept my boyfriend’s invitation to travel home with him and meet his family! Nothing malicious!”

“I hate to say I told you so but…” 

“Fuck you,” Jimin replied, tilting his head back over the chair in frustration.

“No can do, we’re both bottoms,” Taehyung said nonchalantly. Jimin broke into a fit of laughter following Taehyung’s lewd response. “Tell Taehyungie what happened to his poor baby duck,” He pouted.

“It was fine at first. We were just making dumplings and joking around. But everytime Jiyoon spoke it was like everyone involuntarily stopped breathing. She would completely ruin the mood,” Jimin started, taking a deep breath before continuing, “but then, I got up to use the restroom. But, you know, because that house is so fucking large, I was lost. That's when Jiyoon came up behind me.”

“Oh, shit.”

“She was telling me all the crap about how she sacrificed her whole life to marry Jeongguk’s father and raise a family. And how Halmeoni never really liked her. It was like she was trying to sympathize with me . Like, bitch? You're the fucking reason I’m feeling like this!”

“How dare she!” Taehyung joked, mimicking Jimin’s angered tone. Jimin quickly glared at him then continued on.

“And then, she tells me I’ll never be enough, like who the fuck does that!”

“Wait—what the fuck! Was she like you will never be enough ? Or you—you will never be enough?” Taehyung asked.

“Like the second one,” Jimin replied pitifully.

“ Oh .”

“Except for like in a way that made me wanna cry and vomit at the same time.”

“God, she’s such a bitch,” Taehyung offered, “You know, I bet if you told her you’d leave Jeongguk for like a million dollars she’d write that check. They do that around here—.”

“—She looked at me like I was nothing—” Jimin sighed.

“—Like a ten fucking million dollar check. I feel like she would do that.”

“I don’t even know what I should do. Jeongguk worships her. It’s like she’s his god or something.”

“That’s just how mother-son relationships are here,” Taehyung explained.

“Well, you should see me and my mother.”

“What about the Halmeoni? Does she hate your face too?” Taehyung asked, changing the subject briefly.

“Okay, no one said that they hated my face. Halmeoni, she liked my face. She said I had a lucky nose…” Jimin trailed off, playing with his fingers.

“That’s fucking fantastic! Jiyoon can hate you all day long, but you can’t be two thousand years worth of ancient Korean history,” Taehyung tried, attempting to make Jimin feel somewhat better.

“I feel like I shouldn’t even go to the wedding. It’s Namjoon’s and Jisoo’s day and I don’t wanna cause any drama. I think I should just… sit it out, tell Jeongguk I got food poisoning or something,” Jimin said, “What?”

“That’s bullshit. You’re just scared,” Taehyung lamented. Jimin scoffed.

“No, I’m not,” His voice was all of a sudden very high and squeaky.

“Okay,” Taehyung huffed, “Here’s what you need to know and understand: this isn’t about getting Jiyoon to like you, it’s about getting her to respect you. Right now, she thinks your some clueless, undeserving, gold-digging, trashy, unrefined, know-it-all bitch.”

“Thanks, babe. I appreciate it,” Jimin groaned.

“I'm just stating facts,” Taehyung replied. Jimin rolled his eyes again. “In reality you’re like a super cool fucking professor of game theory! Show her that side of you.”

“I guess you’re right,” Jimin said, Taehyung’s words finally hitting him in the gut.

“Damn straight, I’m right. It’s Taehyung, I’m always right.”

“You know what?” Jimin started, “it’s like she’s trying to play a game of chicken with me, where she’s coming at me and thinks I’m gonna swerve, just like a chicken.”

“But you can’t swerve.”

“I’m not gonna swerve. Definitely not for her.”

“Exactly! Chickens are such bitches, dude,” Taehyung replied.

“And I’m not a chicken,” Jimin stated.

“You’re not a chicken. You are gonna roll up to that wedding, in my white Rolls fucking Royce, and be like Bak, Bak Bitch !”

“Bak, bak Bitch!” Jimin repeated.

“Chickens are bitches!” Taehyung called out to the street, sipping on his tea. Jimin chuckled along with him. He pictured himself getting out of a car as nice as a Rolls Royce. It made him feel glamorous. However, nothing he brought, or would ever own to be honest, was nice enough for that. He had packed a floral summer dress with ruffles, assuming the wedding would be formal, but not wild. He knew he had to outdo himself by three times in order to make a statement.

“What are you doing tonight?” He asked Taehyung.

“I don’t know, I was just gonna go shopping or something. Why? Oh!” Taehyung understood, Jimin smiling coyly at his friend. He promptly was ushered into Taehyung’s car and soon enough they were at his place in what Taehyung called the dressing room. He was surrounded by large mirrors and racks upon racks of designer gowns. 

Not only that, but Taehyung had called up a new friend with a connection to the couture world of fashion and to the least of Jimin’s surprise, soon enough, Hoseok and his whole team showed up.

mood: bejeweled - taylor swift 

“I’ve been waiting since the first day I saw your sad, sad wardrobe all those years ago to do this,” Taehyung began. Jimin was standing on a platform, Taehyung and Hoseok to his side. “I’m thinking eyebrow triage, root crimps, some eyelid tape, definitely a full face. What do you think?” He asked Hoseok.

“All of it. I’d like to add a Korean snail face mask. Sweetie, your skin is so dry it’s hurting my skin,” he palmed the side of Jimin’s face caringly. He walked around him, scrutinizing the room. “You know, it is about time someone stood up to Auntie Jiyoon. Well, you, not me. Oh god, she can’t ever know I was here.”

“Of course not,” Taehyung agreed.

“Oh no,” Jimin finished.

“Right, well then. Let’s get to work. Americanos, everyone,” Hoseok called to the room then stalked over to racks, browsing through the options. “Let’s pull the pink balenciaga, the floral miu miu, the peach dolce, three valentinos, all the Diors and all the bottegas!”

“And a turkey sandwich for Taehyung,” Taehyung asked as Hoseok walked off to some of the assistants. Jimin, overwhelmed as it was, didn’t have much to say and was quickly ushered behind the wooden divider with already countless options waiting for him to try them on.

The first he threw on being a blue strapless gown with a beaded top and a ruffled skirt.

“I like this one,” he said as he came out and stood on the platform, twirling the bottom of the dress.

“It’s interesting, for sure,” Taehyung decided.

“You look like a fish. A sad smelly fish no one wants to be around,” Hoseok replied. Jimin scoffed playfully and returned to the fitting space.

“Like… chainmail,” Taehyung offered to the next one Jimin came out wearing. It was a silver dress full of silver colored gems and beads.

“This is why disco died,” Hoseok commented.

“Okay then,” Jimin stated. Sejun, Taehyung’s father, entered the room, an extremely tiny mini dress in hand. He sauntered over and threw it over the divider.

“Incoming!” He exclaimed.

“Dad,” Taehyung took him by the arm and led him away. 

“I love the lgbtq representation, but it’s like it’s on its period and your the tampon,” Hoseok responded when Jimin next appeared in a white flowery gown with splashes of color.

“On a heavy day,” Taehyung followed.

“So hard to please,” Jimin sighed. Truthfully, he didn’t like any of them either but he just wanted to go along with whatever was happening. He’d never felt so glamorous in his life. Of course, he had enough money to support himself and pay for extra expenses like this trip, for example, but he would never be apart of a luxurious fitting without outside help.

Continuing on, Jimin donned a fitted red, velvet dress with beads lining the sides.

“You’re a vision in red, darling, but are you my great grandma’s bedding or her matching curtains?” Hoseok asked.

“Damn,” Taehyung lamented.

“You look like a slutty ebola virus,” Taehyung commented on the next one. It was short with an open umbrella-like skirt.

“Like an open bag of skittles, taste the rainbow.”

The next gown was draped in pink and purple tulle with floral details.

“You look like a fairy, a really extravagant fairy.”

“Is that a bad thing?” Jimin asked.

“In this case, it’s a very bad thing.”

“What a nice ode to aunty Jiyoon.”

“You're saying it looks like a snake, because that is exactly what I was thinking.”

Jimin sighed once again. His green dress definitely reminded him of a snake.

There was one last dress waiting for him behind the divider and with little help he slipped it on and left the hidden space so Hoseok and Taehyung could see it.

“Now this, this is the one.”

Taehyung sniffled.

“Taehyung, don’t cry,” Jimin pleaded.

“You just look so beautiful,” A tear fell from his eye and he stood up and ran into Jimin’s arms. They held each other for a few minutes while Jimin rubbed Taehyung’s back, before pulling apart. 

“Thank you,” Jimin said, looking endearingly into his best friend’s eyes.

“I love you, man.” Jimin was surprised at Taehyung’s confession. While they were touchy with each other and hugged frequently, it was rare they put it into words how much they cared for each other.

“I love you too,” Jimin replied. “What are you gonna do when I get married, someday?”

“Hope they have an unlimited supply of tissue boxes on hand.”

“How sweet,” Hoseok applauded, “but seriously, Jimin, this is the dress. You’re gonna outdo every single evil cousin and family friend there,” He came up behind Jimin, placing his arms on his shoulders while they looked in the mirror together. 

“That’s the goal,” Jimin agreed, smirking. 

“Right, tomorrow, we meet here, very early in the morning. We will get you dressed, get you in hair and makeup, and then have you escorted to the wedding.”

Jimin nodded, realizing he’d never been so well taken care of before.

~~~

Like Taehyung had promised, Jimin found himself seated in the back of a Rolls Royce, with a driver, Hoseok across from him and Taehyung to his side, waiting to escort him into the church.

It was like a scene from the royal wedding when they pulled up. Reporters and photographers lined the carpet, getting interviews and taking shots of the guests. Everyone was dressed to the nines. Jimin was eternally grateful that he had enlisted Hoseok and Taehyung’s help. 

Jimin recognized a few faces, but he was sure most guests were celebrities and socialites, regardless of if they knew the family or not.

The car halted in front of the red carpet. Jimin waited until his door was opened by Taehyung before he got out. He held his hand out for Jimin to take and he allowed himself to be brought up into the chaos.

“I’ve got Park Jimin of New York! Park Jimin of New York!” Hoseok called out as he stepped out of the car.

Jimin flattened his gown down with his hands. It was a glittering blue floor length dress, with a halter tied at the neck, and decal flowers made of tulle. Taehyung’s mom had commented on it looking like Cinderella’s ball gown.

He was a vision.

Flashes from cameras exploded onto the scene as reporters waved Jimin down for a few words or a picture. He was unknown but he supposed a pretty picture overtook the importance of who he actually was.

He felt a little overwhelmed, once again, but Hoseok gladly led him through the crowd. 

“You look stunning, just breathe,” he whispered into Jimin’s ear. “Once again, I’ve got Park Jimin of New York, Park Jimin of New York! Real estate heir, Park Jimin of the New York Parks!”

“Right here! Oh, right here!” One photographer called.

“Jimin! Jimin! Over here!”

“Such a beautiful dress! Excuse me, can I please get a picture?”

Jimin happily posed. He felt the most confident he’d ever felt in his whole life. He looked good. He knew it and everyone else knew it.

“Jimin, this way! This way, please!”

“Over here! To me!”

As Jimin made his way down the carpet, he ran into a few of the women from Jisoo’s bachelorette party. They were busy posing for the cameras, as was Jimin.

“Okay, ladies. Looking very good. Now please step out of the way,” a photographer had said to them as Jimin came into view. “Out of the way, please.”

They looked agape, almost incredulous. Jimin smirked and stepped in front of the camera.

“So gorgeous!” Kitty complimented as she reached Jimin.

“Thank you,” he replied before she found her . He continued to pose, unwillingly pushing the guests out of the way at each photographers’ request.

“Ladies,” Jimin began as he came face to face with a few of them. “Nayeon,” he said. The girl had her hair rolled up on top of her head with a fitted green dress to match.

“Hmm,” she responded.

“You’re in my way,” he pursed his lips and pushed past her, heading up the steps of the First Methodist Church for Hoseok’s open hand. He took it and linked elbows with him as they entered the church.

“Okay, what?” He heard Nayeon gasp as he entered the church.

It was extravagant. Just the exterior was done up in decorations and the interior had been transformed into an artful abstract forest. The seats were made of bamboo and tall grass. Floral arrangements hung from the ceiling and lined the ground. The altar was a beautiful wooden sculpture with stained glass and flowers all over it.

Jimin was shocked. Out of the corner of his eye he spotted Jiyoon, Haewon, Garam, and other housewives holding court towards the front of the church. They were evaluating each and every guest. He left Hoseok’s side and went off to mingle, ending up just away from the aunties. 

“Who is that?” He heard Garam question from down the hall. They turned to see Jimin heading their way. He walked with confidence, illuminating grace. They looked stunned as he reached them.

“Aunties,” he greeted.

“Jimin. How lovely it is to see you,” Jiyoon replied.

“The pleasure is all mine.”

“I’m sorry, our row is all full.”

Jimin smiled placidly.

“I love it,” Haewon complimented before they sat down.

“Bak, Bak,” he said to himself then brushed past them to find a seat. As he searched towards the back, his eyes landed on the row a few ahead from the aunties. The lone Princess Intan was sat in it. 

“Princess Intan? Park Jimin,” he introduced himself as he sat down. He was ignored, but he pressed on. “I read your great article about micro loans in the Asian Economics Journal.”

“I got so much criticism for that article,” she finally replied.

“Well, I think your critics missed the point. Because your micro loans help to lift up economies,” he finished. She seemed surprised and reassed Jimin.

“What did you say your name was again?”

“Park Jimin,” he shook her hand.

“And what brings you here?”

“Well, I followed a boy, my longtime boyfriend, actually.”

“How sweet.”

“He’s the best man.”

“Your boyfriend is Jeon Jeongguk?”

“Worldwidely known I guess,” Jimin chuckled, tucking his hair behind his ear as he laughed with the princess. An excited buzz rippled through the crowd as the descent of the bride drew closer and closer. 

The doors suddenly flew open and headsturned to the back of the church as Seokjin and Halmeoni walked into the hall, hand in hand, her maids behind her.

“Halmeoni is here? She never comes to these things,” Garam loudly exclaimed. Everyone seated in the pews stood as she walked down the aisle to her seat in front of the aunties. Once she was seated, Jimin reached across and held Seokjin’s hand tightly, noticing he was alone. Yoongi was nowhere to be found. Jimin was pretty sure he had a vague idea of what had happened before Seokjin arrived.

In the back alcove, Jeongguk, Namjoon and the rest of the groomsmen waited for their queue to head out to the altar. Namjoon was peeking out into the audience, it was clear he was filled with some nerves.

“How are you feeling?” Jeongguk asked.

“As good as I can be,” Namjoon replied, turning his way and fixing his cuffs.

“Good. Don’t be nervous,” Jeongguk reassured.

“I’m not nervous,” Namjoon promised.

“You look great.”

“Thanks,” he peeked his head out a little bit more to see the audience better, “hey, uh, Jimin’s not sitting with your family.”

“Yeah, I’m not surprised. But I don’t blame him. Mother hasn’t been the most welcoming. He’s probably towards the back somewhere.”

“No, look,” he pointed to the front of the church, “he’s right at the front.”

Jeongguk turned to where Namjoon was pointing and spotted Jimin. He was sitting two rows in front of his mother, laughing. He looked so beautiful, so gorgeous and at ease, happily chatting with the princess.

“I think you’ve got a fighter,” Namjoon decided. Jeongguk beamed.

“Guys, I think it’s time,” one of the groomsmen said and they all lined up into position.

mood: can’t help falling in love - kina grannis 

The crowd hushed as the groomsmen entered the altar in a line, Namjoon taking his place at the center, Jeongguk to his side. Jimin looked at Jeongguk, his heart swelling with pride as their gazes locked. The singer began to strum her guitar and three little flower girls came waddling down the aisle. They each carried a basket of pink petals and sprinkled the fragile flowers as they went. 

Then, an equally adorable ring bearer followed. Jimin watched as he tottered down the aisle, pillow in hand. Once he made it to the altar, Jeongguk happily took the rings off his hands and gave him a high five. Jimin laughed as he watched him interact with the kids. It was a treat to his eyes. Children probably weren’t in their future, but Jimin liked the idea of having a family of their own.

Now, the aisle opened up and water came rushing in, the petals floating atop the stream. Jimin gasped in awe, along with the rest of the guests. Then, the lights dimmed, and all the guests stood up, those on the end with lit-up flowers in hand, and looked to the back where a group of bridesmaids stood. They parted, revealing Jisoo.

She was luminous. Dressed in a stunning white ball gown with gold detailing and layers on the skirt as well as a gleaming smile.

With the help of a bridesmaid to slip out of her shoes, she stepped onto the water filled aisle and gracefully waltzed down, flowers in hand. She walked towards the glittery lights with her bridesmaid following her.

Taking his eyes off Jisoo, Jimin landed on Jeongguk, who was unsurprisingly looking at him as well. Jimin felt a lump in his throat and tears swell in his eyes as the procession went on.

I love you, he mouthed to Jeongguk. He observed him take a deep breath before he mouthed: I love you, too . And Jimin couldn’t help it when a tear rolled down his cheek. He wiped his face discreetly and smiled as Jisoo reached the top of the altar.

Jisoo and Namjoon were facing each other at the altar, hand in hand, as the pastor officiated their soon-to-be marriage, all eyes on them.

“You may now kiss the bride!” The pastor announced. Namjoon lifted her veil and kissed her so passionately, holding her tightly around the waist. The entire congregation erupted into cheers and applause as they kissed at the top of the altar.

~~~

mood: treasure - bruno mars 

The botanical gardens hotel Jimin remembered driving by on his first night in Seoul had been transformed into a magical space for the reception to be held. Similarly to the interior of the church, there were large floral arrangements all over the space, several tables, a larger stage with a full band and an even larger dance floor. It was amazing. 

Jisoo and Namjoon were in the midst of their second first dance, a choreographed routine including the wedding party. They elected to have a private first dance, away from their guests during the cocktail hour.

Jimin and Jeongguk were off to the side, Jimin’s back to Jeongguk’s front, Jeongguk’s hands on his waist as they swayed to the music.

“Some party, isn’t it?” Jimin jokingly said.

“Like I said back in the hangar, with Jisoo and Namjoon, it’s go big or go home,” Jeongguk chuckled. “You look spectacular,” he continued, kissing Jimin’s cheek from behind.

“It’s the double spanks, I can’t breathe,” Jimin giggled, remembering the trouble it took to squeeze him into this dress.

“It’s not the clothes, it’s just you.”

Jimin’s smile widened, and he leaned into kiss Jeongguk, to which he was caught in a sweet, sweet kiss, their lips slotting together perfectly. It was like they had been made to only fit the other for as long as their love would last, hopefully forever.

“Come on, now,” Jisoo came up to them, interrupting their kiss, dancing in her reception outfit, a much shorter white dress, “this party isn’t gonna dance itself.” She took Jimin by the hand.

“Come on, Jeonggukie,” Namjoon reached for his best man.

“All right, Hyung,” Jeongguk took Namjoon’s hand, grinning at his best friend.

“Whoo-hoo!” Jisoo cheered as the four of them took to the dance floor. Jimin held onto Jisoo and followed along in her simple steps as they spun on the floor, grinning and giggling from ear to ear. They interlocked their fingers and threw them up in the air as they danced their way to the center, where the majority of the guests could be found dancing off their drunken endeavors to live music.

“You’re quite good, Hyung,” Jeongguk said as he was twirled by Namjoon.

“Oh, yeah? I only stepped on her once!” Namjoon cheered. 

“I’m a little surprised, to be honest,” Jeongguk teased.

“Not on my wedding night, man,” the groom laughed.

The four danced along on the floor, intertwining with each other as they went. Jimin couldn’t remember the last time he had so much fun. He felt good about himself and he was with people who genuinely cared about him and his feelings. It made him feel as light as a feather. Nothing could bring him down.

Being in the country of his ancestors with his one true love on a more than magical night was everything and more Jimin could ever want. 

After endless twirling in the hands of Jisoo, Jimin found himself back in the arms of Jeongguk, his hair a tad ruffled, his tie a little jostled, and a few sweat beads forming at his hairline. He’d never looked so attractive, Jimin thought to himself as he took Jeongguk’s right hand in his and set his left on his shoulder, the other doing the opposite. They began to step back and forth together on the dance floor.

“Do you remember that night in Brooklyn?” Jeongguk leaned his head down to be at Jimin’s level and whispered into his ear, loud enough for Jimin to hear, but quiet enough for it to be unheard by the party for the rest of the guests.

“Do I remember that night in Brooklyn? The time we came up with that routine on the spot? Of course I do,” Jimin replied, butterflies in his stomach all over again as he was reminded of the date.

Jimin had just gotten off of work and Jeongguk was waiting outside the building with two bikes, true to his nature as always.

“I figured we could take a nice ride to Brooklyn? I’ve heard of this great restaurant out that way,” he said.

So off they’d ridden, biking by the gorgeous spring sunset over the bridge. He and Jeongguk had only been officially dating a few months, but, man oh man, was Jimin so in love. 

Jeongguk was perfect in almost every aspect, at least in Jimin’s eyes. He was gorgeous, so kind, took Jimin on dates, and he was great in bed. Not to mention, he’d always been a fan of accents.

“Where are we going, baby?” Jimin had asked as they neared the end of the bridge.

“You’ll see,” Jeongguk had promised. Jimin playfully had rolled his eyes and followed his boyfriend through the streets of Brooklyn. It was dinner time, so Jimin had figured they were probably heading somewhere to get food. Brooklyn always had good places to eat.

He was proven wrong, however, when Jeongguk had slowed up at a bike rack in front of a park. In the center, there was a wooden dance floor with fairy lights hung around the perimeter, and to top it all of, a live band playing on a stage just behind it.

“Jeonggukie, what is this?” Jimin had asked excitedly.

“I read about it online, today. And we’ve had so much fun going out to dance clubs, recently… oh. You don’t like it. Let’s just go back to my apartment—,” Jeongguk had started, his feet taking him in the opposite direction.

“Stop it, you goof. Come on, let’s get out there!” Jimin had taken Jeongguk by the hand and quickly led him to the floor.

The live band had been playing an acoustic version of Bruno Mars’ “Treasure,” similarly to the scene at the wedding. Jimin remembered what felt like flying on the dance floor as Jeongguk and Jimin landed in each other's arms, their steps having a mind of their own.

Much like now, when Jimin allowed Jeongguk to let go of his hold on his waist and they took a few steps from each other. They began to circle each other until making their way back in each other's arms.

Jeongguk slid his hands down Jimin’s torso and spun him out before dipping him to the floor. He quickly kissed him on the lips before lifting him back up and spinning him to the other side.

This time when Jimin landed back in Jeongguk’s hold, Jeongguk lifted him up and twirled around just enough to get a reaction from the rest of the dance floor.

Jimin’s dress swirled from the breeze and he was so happy. He knew the truth about Jeongguk and his family, looked stunning, and had made some great friends. Nothing could ruin this night.

The last few notes of the song played and all the guests cheered, including Jimin and Jeongguk who pulled apart as they made their way to the edge of the dance floor.

“Mister Jeongguk,” one of Halmeoni’s maid called as she came up behind the pair, “your grandmother would like to speak to you and Mister Jimin.”

“Okay,” Jimin agreed. 

“Come on,” Jeongguk took Jimin by the hand as they followed the maid out of the main reception area and down a windy path that led to a private alcove where Halmeoni and Jiyoon waited at a table.

mood: i love you - Billie Eilish

“Halmeoni, Mum, what is this all about?” Jeongguk asked, expecting all eyes to be on him, but instead his Halmeoni’s attention fell to Jimin.

“Jimin,” she began, “I’ve only known you for a short time, but it’s clear you’re a very smart man.”

Jimin smiled weakly, a little confused but still appreciative of the compliment.

“However, I will not allow you to ruin my grandson with your ambition,” she continued. Jimin stepped back, stunned, his mouth open and lips quivering slightly.

“Halmeoni!” Jeongguk gasped, just as shocked as Jimin.

“I’m sorry to tell you, Jeongguk, but Jimin has been lying to us about his family and his mother,” Jiyoon explained.

“Wh—what are you talking about?!” Jimin questioned, his guard up.

“I hired a private investigator to look into his past—,” Jiyoon said.

“—Mum, you didn’t—,” Jeongguk cut her off before she continued.

“He said his father passed away in Korea, but that’s not true,” she turned to Jimin who’s eyes were glossed over with tears as he took in the shocking revelations, “your mother’s husband is very much alive. During her marriage, she cheated on him and fell pregnant with another man’s baby, and before he found out she ran away to America.”

Jimin was absolutely gutted. He stood in a state of shock as Jiyoon picked up a Manila folder from the table Halmeoni sat at.

“It’s all in here,” Jiyoon held out the folder.

“You had no right!” Jeongguk replied angrily. 

“We had every right!” She argued.

“Stop—you’re lying!” Jimin cried.

“You did not!” Jeongguk yelled, so enraged all he could think about was his mother’s horrible actions.

“Do you have any idea of the scandal this would have caused? For Jimin to hide something like this?” Jiyoon tried.

“He wouldn’t have,” Jeongguk defended, looking back at Jimin as he stood breathless.

“We cannot be linked to this sort of family.”

Jimin let his distraught gaze from Jeongguk fall upon Jiyoon.

“I don’t want any part of your family,” Jimin spat then turned around, fleeing the scene. Jeongguk attempted to reach for him, but he pulled away too quickly, just barely slipping out of Jeongguk’s grasp. Before Jeongguk could run after him, his Halmeoni put her hand on his arm.

“Don’t you dare chase after him and further degrade yourself. I forbid it. If you go after him you cannot come back!”

“Let me go!” Jeongguk pulled away and began to run after Jimin who had already disappeared from view. “Jimin!”

Jimin ran, disoriented as he ended up back in the crowd, his vision blurry from his tears.

“What’s wrong Cinderella? Have to return the dress before Midnight?” Jeonghee laughed in his face along with the group crowding around him. Jimin did his best to ignore him and pushed past the circle of people. He continued running through the throngs of guests, ultimately ending up by Jisoo and Namjoon who had just started cutting into their cake.

“Oh, Jimin!” Jisoo called.

“You’re just in time!” Namjoon reached for him but Jimin once again pulled away and quickly apologized before taking off again.

Everywhere he turned there seemed to be looks of derisiveness. It was as if everyone was laughing at him. The outside who was finally breaking down and realizing how much of a disappointment he was, how much of a mistake it was for him to come here.

Eventually, after what seemed like hours of endless running, Jimin found his way to the street where he hailed a cab and directed the driver to the Kim residence. He could never face the Jeon’s again. He wasn’t even sure he could face Jeongguk again.

Everything had been so magical. They were just dancing together on the floor, reminiscing on a great night in New York. How did everything become so fucked up?

As he sat in the back of the cab, Seoul’s colorful night lights shining through the window onto Jimin’s tear stained dress, he decided to call up Taehyung.

“Jimin? Is everything okay?” Taehyung asked once he picked up. Jimin felt a sob bubble up in the back of his throat upon hearing such a nurturing voice. His tears rolled down his cheek as he slumped back in the cab, clutching Taehyung’s voice as tight as he could. “Jimin, baby, don’t cry. What’s wrong?”

“Oh, Taehyung,” Jimin cried, “everything’s gone all wrong. I—I don’t know what to do. I’m on the way to your place.” He wiped his tears with his free hand, realizing his dress was now tear-stained.

“I'll be waiting on the front porch for you.”  

~~~

Jimin briefly thanked the taxi driver as they reached the front gate to Taehyung’s house. He hopped out of the car, his heels in his hand, and sulked over to Taehyung where he fell in his arms and sobbed. They sunk to the floor, Jimin arms thrown around Taehyung’s neck as he cried into his shoulder. He wept and wept as Taehyung gently rubbed his back and whisper sweet sentiments into his ear.

“Baby, what happened?” Taehyung calmly questioned, pulling apart from Jimin slightly so he could look at him and wipe his tears. His face was stained with tears and leftover makeup, his eyes were red and puffy, and his hair was messily tousled.

Jimin couldn’t even properly reply. All that came out of his tired throat were more tears and pained cries, too distraught over losing the love of his life.

Chapter Text

It had been exactly two days since the wedding, and during the span of those two days, Jimin had only gotten up twice from where he lay in one of Taehyung’s guest rooms. He’d experienced heartbreak before; two highschool relationships, college flings that ended due to his habit of catching feelings too fast, and even a few serious relationships after he graduated university. But Jeongguk made him feel different. He was different.

So many aspects of their relationship helped Jimin to see what a real, loving relationship based on trust was. Every step they took as a couple was perfectly paced for their age. They were open and honest with each other, celebrated the successes and comforted the disappointments. Jeongguk made their future together seem so real and permanent. Jimin figured he’d found his forever. He never could have accounted for the unexpected wealth and status of the Jeons and how much it would impact his life with Jeongguk.

mood: i miss you, i’m sorry - Gracie Abrams

Having moved from the bed, Jimin lay on the upholstered bench at the end of the bed, a blanket covering his body, staring into space, the only thing on his mind being the wedding and the last words he spoke to Jeongguk.

“Jimin?” Taehyung peeked into the room, his face glum. “Come to breakfast. You need to eat, or use the bathroom. Maybe a shower? It’s there if you need it.”

Jimin sighed. The last thing he’d had to eat was probably a hor d'oeuvre at the reception, it might have even been cocktail hour. He couldn’t remember eating much that night, too distracted with Jeongguk.

Daylight quickly turned to night and Jimin remained in bed, awake, but unmoving. He turned his head slightly at the creak of the door to see it open, revealing Taehyung’s parents and his twin sisters waiting in the doorway, a plate of food in their teeny tiny hands.

“Here take this,” Sejun began, “bring it to Jimin.” He pushed the girls off into the room.

“Hi, Jimin, this is your dinner,” they gently said as they slid it into the duvet.

“Thank you,” he mouthed, tears in his eyes. The Kims had given him so much and taken care of them to the best of their abilities, and all Jimin could do was rot in bed.

Jimin left the food untouched, once again, feeling guilty about it, but he was in no mood to eat anything.

That night, he slept for more than eight hours, the most in days. However, he was abruptly awoken by the loud vibration coming from him phone. After checking it briefly, it was unsurprisingly Jeongguk. Jimin sighed sadly then regrettably played the voice mail.

“Jimin? Baby, please, talk to me. I want to explain everything, please. I miss you… I’ll stop by again tonight.”

Automatically, each voicemail Jeongguk had left began to play, and Jimin was much too distraught to stop it.

“Baby? I’m so sorry. I miss you. Call me.”

“Jimin, please, please give me a call back.”

“Call me back when you get the chance? I really messed up, Jimin, I know I did.”

“I am the most sorry I’ve ever been, please, Jimin.”

“I love you so much, I never meant to hurt you like this. Please, give me a call back.”

“I’m on my way over. Please talk to me, baby.”

“Call me, Jimin. I beg you, I just want to talk. I need to explain everything.”

“I am so, so sorry. I love you. Call me.”

“I just stopped by to check on you. Taehyung said you refuse to see me. Talk to me, Jimin. What happened is unforgivable, I know that. I’m so sorry, my love.”

“Just give me a chance to explain. I miss you.”

“Call me back, Jimin. I know you’re getting these. I’m so sorry.”

“Call me? I miss you, I’m sorry.”

“Jimin, please, I’m getting desperate. I just need to hear your voice.”

Jimin thought he might cry again for the nth time. Everything reminded him of Jeongguk, it wasn’t helpful that the man himself was leaving him voicemail after voicemail and his phone seemed to become unable to stop playing them back for Jimin’s ears to hear.

It was absolutely heartbreaking to ignore the love of his life, but Jimin couldn’t go back to him. He could never put himself in that position again, it would ruin his life and his self-worth. At least, that’s what Taehyung repeated to him when he would sneak in for cuddles.

Before he met his family, their life together was perfect. Nothing in the world could change that. But Jimin refused to be treated as if he were worthless. How could he love someone yet know those closest to him despised him?

“Hi Mimi,” Taehyung called from the doorway, the nickname tugging on Jimin’s heartstrings. He tiptoed into the room and by default, Jimin lifted the covers, scooching over so Taehyung could curl up next to him.

“How ya feeling?” Taehyung wondered, running his hand through Jimin’s hair as the brunette nestled his face into the crook of his neck.

“Like shit,” Jimin answered, a breathy laugh following.

“I’m so sorry, Min. You don’t deserve to feel like this.”

“You’ve said that a lot.”

“I know, but it’s true.”

“I miss him so much,” Jimin lamented, inaudible cries leaving his lips.

“You must remain strong, Min. I know that you love him and I know that you miss him, but I also know you never want to feel how you’ve felt this last week ever again.”

“It’s hard. Hearing his voicemails, knowing he’s shown up here multiple times sense the wedding asking for me. It’s all so hard to grasp. A week ago we were perfect. I just wish things didn’t have to change,” he sniffled.

“Oh, honey. That’s life. Look, boyfriends come and go but friends are a constant. I hadn’t seen you in two years before this trip, and look at us. Still the same as our 19 year-old selves eating takeout at 2 in the morning, drunk from whatever party we had just gone to,” Taehyung explained. Jimin could feel him smiling, his chin having raised into a tiny grin from where it was hooked over the top of Jimin’s head.

“He wasn’t a college hookup, he was Jeongguk. I guess I just need some time. Time to process and move on.”

“I think that will be best for you. Personally, your wellbeing is all that matters to me.”

“I love you, Tae,” Jimin breathed.

“I love you, too Min.”

“Stay with me, tonight?”

“I’d be delighted to.”

“Jimin?” It was Taehyung, again. He’d spent the night with Jimin but had to leave early due to some breakfast plans.

“Hm?” He mindlessly answered, expecting to see Taehyung jump into bed with him at his answer.

“There’s someone here to see you.”

“Tell him to leave. I don’t want to see him. He knows I need some time.”

“It’s not Jeongguk.” Taehyung stepped to the side, revealing Jimin’s most favorite person ever, his mother.

“Mom!” Jimin immediately stirred, throwing his covers off and leaping out of bed at the sight of her. He ran into his mom’s open arms and threw his arms around her neck, silently crying into her shoulder as he held on tightly.

“Oh, my sweet boy. What happened?” Mijeong kissed the side of her son’s face and softly rubbed his back. “I’ll ask for some soup to be sent up while we talk.” She pulled away slightly and cupped Jimin’s face, wiping the few tears on his cheek with her thumb. “How does that sound?”

“That sounds good, ma,” Jimin answered meekly with a sniffle, nodding his head and wiping the rest of his tears.

Soon enough, Jimin found himself sitting up on the bed, Mijeong entering the room with a tray in her hand.

“Drink more,” she said, placing the tray in front of Jimin, “the dong-quai and ginseng will give you strength and more energy.”

“Thanks,” he replied.

“Your spirit has always been so strong, even before Jeongguk. You will get through this,” Mijeong cozied up on the bed next to Jimin who sulked as he sipped the hot tea.  “You will find someone who’s perfect for you. Someone who will accept everything about you, as well as his own family.”

“I just wanted it to be him… I still do,” Jimin frowned.

“I know you did, baby,” Mijeong smiled weakly. They sat in silence with each other for a moment while Jimin tried to finish his tea and soup with encouragement from his mother. 

“Why didn’t you tell me about my father?” Jimin questioned. Since the night of the wedding, if he wasn’t plagued by thoughts of Jeongguk, it was the only other thing on his mind. Mijeong clicked her tongue, her gaze falling to the bed before landing back on Jimin.

“My husband… he wasn’t a good man. He would hurt me. It was sometimes verbal, but sometimes, things would get physical. I can still remember the bruises he gave me. However, an old friend of mine from my highschool years got back into contact with me during my marriage. He helped me through things. Eventually, we fell in love and I got pregnant with his baby, that’s you. I was terrified. I couldn’t imagine what my husband would do once he found out that I slept with another man and fell pregnant, he’d probably kill us both, so I took you and I ran. I just ran to America.”

Jimin sighed in disbelief. He couldn’t ever imagine someone as lovely as his mother going through something so awful. 

“Did you ever…? I don’t know, think about trying to talk to him? Don’t you think about him and miss him?” Jimin asked.

“Every day. When we first came here, all I wanted to do was reach out to him, but I was so afraid my husband would find us. And now… it’s too far gone. I don’t want to cause any trouble.”

“I’m really sorry,” Jimin replied, his eyes watering at the sight of his mother tearing up. She shook her head and smiled.

“Don’t be sorry. You listen to me,” she took Jimin’s hand in hers, “everything that happened in my past is the reason why I got you. My brave and clever boy.” She tucked Jimin’s hair behind his ear as he began to cry. He flopped back onto the bed, hand over his stomach, legs sprawled out, Mijeong following.

“I really thought he was the one,” Jimin muttered, turning to face Mijeong, “I really did, mom. Everything about him was just so wonderful. He made me feel so loved.”

“I know, sweetheart.”

“Now, I just wanna go home," he wept.

“I know you do, but Jeongguk was the one who brought me out here. Before we fly back, I think you should talk to him.”

“If you say so.”

~~~

Jimin called Jeongguk back and the pair had decided to meet up at a pier on the riverfront, near where they’d gone biking their first night in the city. Jimin attempted to put himself together, he even had put on a floral romper and done his hair, but he was exhausted, he was sure he looked it too despite his outfit. Purple eyebags surrounding his bottom eyelid, chapped lips, and a less than cheery face were also part of his look.

“Jimin!” Jeongguk waved him down from a stone bench. Jimin briefly smiled then headed in his direction. “How have you been?” He asked once Jimin had sat down. It was clear Jeongguk was leaning in to kiss the brunette but Jimin quickly turned his head, unable to have such intimacy after his heartbreak.

“Not great,” Jimin replied.

“I feel like that’s my fault,” Jeongguk said.

Jimin remained silent.

“I kept my whole life from you. I lied about my family, about where I went to school. I never told you about past relationships or my friends from home. And I am so sorry. I’m sorry about the lies, I’m sorry about how my family treated you, but I’m the most sorry about the wedding. What my mother did was unforgivable.”

“That is definitely not your fault. You can’t control your mother.”

“It is, though. For as long as I can remember, my family has been my whole life. I put them on a pedestal few others could reach. And I am done making excuses for them. Now, you’re my whole life, you’re all I want Jimin.” Jeongguk reached into his pocket and pulled a black velvet box which upon opening revealed a ring banded with silver and tiny sparkling gems and a clear cut diamond in the center. It shimmer in the light reflected from the river.

“Jeongguk—.”

“Marry me. Marry me and we’ll start a new life together in New York, just you and me. I’ll leave all of this behind.”

“What are you saying?”

“I’m saying that nothing matters to me more than you, and that’s how it’s going to be for the rest of my life. I would do anything just to be with you.”

“I…”

Jeongguk held the box open, anxiously waiting for Jimin’s response.

“I can’t marry you, Jeongguk.”

“What…?” He slowly closed the box, his face dropping.

“You know I can’t. I love you so much, which is why I could never ask you to walk away from your family for me. I care about you and your happiness too much. And I know that you’d miss your family even if you were with me. Think about Namjoon and Seokjin and Hoseok, even your mom. You won’t find that kind of love anywhere else. Not even I can love you like that,” Jimin explained, his hand in Jeongguk’s. 

“Please, Jimin. I don’t want anyone else.”

“We can’t, Jeongguk. You know that, I can see it in your eyes,” Jimin stood up, pulling his hand from Jeongguk’s grasp and turned to leave.

“Baby, wait.” Jeongguk grabbed Jimin’s arm, spinning him back around, tears in his eyes.

“What, Jeongguk?” Jimin wondered, his eyes brimming with water.

“I love you.”

Jimin cupped Jeongguk’s face and slotted their lips together. It was quick, nothing special, but Jimin knew it was the last time.

“I love you too.”

Jimin turned away from Jeongguk and headed for the car he and his mother had taken to get there.

Despite his meeting with Jeongguk, Jimin wasn’t ready to leave Seoul yet. There was one more person he had to confront. He abruptly left the pier and asked to be driven to the street he and Taehyung had gotten coffee at a few days ago.

“Thanks for meeting me here,” Jimin said as Jiyoon sat across the table from him. They were in a mahjong hall joined by two other women who Jiyoon eyed suspiciously. “Don’t worry, they’re half-deaf and they only speak a certain dialect of Korean.”

Jiyoon nodded and tossed the dice in the middle of the tile stacks.

“My mom taught me how to play,” Jimin began, picking up a tile to add to his stack, “she told me mahjong would teach me important life skills: Negotiation, strategy, cooperation.” He pursed his lips at Jiyoon.

“You asked me here, Jimin. I assume it’s not for a mahjong lesson.” Jiyoon threw down a set of cards leading her to earning a few more tiles. “My mother taught me too.” Jimin passed her a red chip.

“I know you found out the truth about my mom, even before I knew it. But you didn’t like me the second I got here. Why is that?” Jimin wondered, stacking his tiles and rolling the dice.

“There’s a phrase in Korea: uli jongjog. It means our own kind. And you’re not our own kind.”

“Why? Because I’m not rich or I didn’t go to British boarding school? Because I wasn’t born into a wealthy family where everything was handed to me on a silver platter?” He argued.

“You’re a foreigner, an American. And Americans are very selfish. They only think about their own happiness,” She tried, passing a tile to Jimin.

“Don’t you want Jeongguk to be happy?”

“He doesn’t understand that Happiness must be sacrificed. We live our daily lives, coming off as happy, but it’s an illusion. We understand how to build things that last. Something you clearly know nothing about.”

“You know nothing about me, and yet you’ve judged me since the first night I met you.”

“I know you’re not what Jeongguk needs. He needs security, family, a planned life. The only thing you’ve done is taken that away from him,” she sneered. Jimin licked his lips, doing his best to keep his cool. Bak Bak.

“Well, he proposed to me yesterday.”

Jiyoon scoffed, taking a tile from Jimin, again.

“He said he’d walk away from his family and from you, for good.”

Jiyoon’s face dropped, a tile slipping from her grasp.

“Don’t worry, I turned him down,” Jimin finished, taking a tile from Jiyoon’s pile.

“Only a fool folds a winning hand,” she countered.

“There is no winning, that’s the thing. You made sure of that. Because if Jeongguk chose me, he would lose his family. And if he chose his family, he might spend the rest of his life resenting you, his own mother who cares for him.” He discarded a tile, one Jiyoon quickly took for her own stack.

“So you chose for him,” she realized.

“I’m not leaving because I’m scared or because I think I’m not enough. But because maybe for the first time in my life, I know I am,” Jimin said.

“I just love Jeongguk so much, more than anything I’ve ever loved before. I don’t want him to lose his mom, again. All I wanted you to know is that one day when Jeongguk falls in love with and marries another lucky person, who is enough for you, and you’re playing with the grandkids while the sun is shining and the birds are chirping, that it was because of me. A poor, raised by a single-mother, low class, immigrant nobody.” Jimin flipped over his hand, but folded. 

The game had become muck, much like his current situation, and no one would be able to win. 

“Goodbye, Jiyoon.” He ended, then stood up and headed in the direction of another table where Mijeong sat waiting. She followed Jimin in standing up and linked arms with him as they exited the hall.

“You did the right thing,” Mijeong said into his ear then kissed his cheek lovingly.

“I hope so,” Jimin replied, his voice slightly shaky.

“I think it’s time we head back to New York. Don’t you agree?”

“Nothing sounds better than that.”

~~~

Jeongguk sat on the end of his once shared hotel bed. All he’d done the last four days was mope around his hotel room, calling Jimin time after time, anxiously waiting for a call back. Even when he did have the opportunity to meet up with the love of his life, it had ended worse than he could have imagined. Jimin wasn’t angry with him, he just seemed disappointed and sad. It looked as though Jimin had already moved on from their relationship. He wasn’t sure he’d ever see him again.

A knock on the door pulled him from his daze, and Jeongguk stirred, walking over to the double door. He hoped it would be the familiar face he’d grown to love, but instead it was his mother.

“Mum?” He questioned.

“Hi. Let’s talk, please,” Jiyoon asked, already heading for the balcony past the hallway. They stood in silence for a moment, Jeongguk pressing his hands into the railing on one end, his mother pondering on the other.

“Why, mum? Why did you do that? How could you do that?” Jeongguk pleaded. He himself had gone through a phase of endless grief-like emotions over the loss of his relationship with Jimin, but now all he felt was rage.

“You had to know I had my reasons,” Jiyoon offered.

“For what? Humiliating the one man I love in front of all those people?”

“Love is a feeling, and feelings pass. But our family—.”

“It’s always about our family, isn’t it, mum? Everything I think and do is for our family. But why does it mean I have to lose the person who’s made me the happiest I’ve ever been.”

“Oh god, you sound just like him. You’ve just become so obsessed with your own happiness that you hardly think about anything else.”

“What are you talking about?” Jeongguk asked, his brows furrowed as he turned to face his mother.

“Jimin asked me to meet up with him for a game of mahjong,” Jiyoon began.

“That’s very like him,” he smiled to himself at the thought of Jimin.

“He told me you proposed. Were you ever going to tell me that?”

“Does it even matter? He said no.”

“You’ve been keeping things from me.”

“Maybe I don’t need my mother to be the center of my life anymore. I was ready to walk away from it all, from our whole family. I still am.”

“How can you stand here and tell me you’re willing to give it all up? What we’ve built hasn’t just been for our family, but for countless other families who depend on us and our work. This is not something you can just walk away from! You have no idea what your father and I have done for you, how much of my own happiness I’ve sacrificed.”

“Like giving me up to Halmeoni?” Jeongguk questioned.

“I can live with her hating me, but never in a million years did I want that hate to come near you. You were just a child—.”

“—Exactly!” He cut his mother off. “I didn’t ask for that.”

“You didn’t need to.”

“What I needed was you. My own mother who should have raised me and taken care of me. But instead, all you could do was force me to spend summers with Halmeoni and send me off to boarding school in a different continent!”

“How have you become so ungrateful?”

“I’m ungrateful?”

“Yes, and you’ve become selfish.”

“Why? Because I don’t want to live and die to work for dad’s company? Because all I want is to be happy with Jimin?”

“Do you really love him that much?” Jiyoon clutched her shawl tight.

“More than life,” Jeongguk replied, breathless now. His eyes flicked down to his mother’s moving fingers as she slipped off her own wedding ring. The green jewel Jimin had once complimented.“Mum?”

~~~

Upon his return to the Kim residence, Jimin quickly took to packing his things up. To be truthful, his luggage had arrived a few days ago from the hotel he and Jeongguk had been staying at, a sweet note attached to his blue suitcase and bouquet of flowers. He’d cried upon receiving it. Everything was packed up, just how Jimin liked it. All that was left were the few pairs of pajamas he’d been wearing and his toiletries.

“Hey, mom?” Jimin, finally finished, wheeled his suitcase down the hall to the guest room his mom had slept in the night before. “Are you ready to go? I think Taehyung called for a cab.”

“He’s such a thoughtful boy. But yes, I am.” Mijeong picked herself up off the floor and took her suitcase, following Jimin as they headed for the stairs. Taehyung was waiting there to take their luggage downstairs, hands clasped behind his back.

“You don’t have to do this?” Jimin playfully argued. 

“Of course I do!” Taehyung began hauling the luggage down the stairs while Jimin and Mijeong slowly followed. “You’ve been through a lot. The least I can do is carry your luggage to the taxi for you.”

“Oh please, Taehyung. You’ve done so much for our Jimin this last week,” Mijeong replied, the three now outside with Taehyung’s parents and a waiting cab, the trunk open.

“But good for you,” Taehyung started as he shoved both suitcases into the trunk. “Walking away from Jeongguk and his family’s fat-ass property portfolio. You have no one and no net worth, but you have integrity. That’s why I respect you.”

“Thank you for everything,” Jimin hugged Taehyung as tight as he could, unsure of when he’d see his best friend next. “I mean it.”

“Let’s just say we’re even now,” Taehyung laughed, pulling away after kissing Jimin’s cheek lovingly. He then turned to face Mijeong, pulling her in for a hug. “Goodbye Mrs. Park.” 

“Goodbye, and thank you,” she replied as she hopped into the taxi. 

“You sure I can’t get you to stay? My brother is still single, you know,” Taehyung joked.

“I wish you could,” Jimin sighed then hugged Taehyung one last time before getting into the taxi after his mom. As they pulled away in the cul de sac, Jimin turned to see the whole Kim family waving to him and Mijeong. He smiled, bittersweet emotions running through his veins, and waved back.

This time, however, when they arrived, there were no first class attendants waiting to escort them to the plane. Instead, they each carried their own luggage, waited in the check-in line, passed through security then arrived on the plane. 

Jimin turned right at the door, heading towards the economy section. Their assigned seats were near the back. The aisles were crowded and Jimin found himself jostled about by other passengers and their carry-on bags. There was nothing they could do, though. They just had to wait their turn to put their bags up high and take their seats.

“Jimin! Jimin!” Jimin whipped his head at the far cry of his name from the front of the plane. His eyes searched the passengers for a moment until he finally spotted Jeongguk, a waving, smiling wider than ever before, Jeongguk.

“I’m gonna go look for some extra blankets,” Mijeong said and turned to head in the other direction as Jeongguk came darting down the opposite aisle of the plane.

“Hello, hurry up, please,” the woman behind Jimin waved a hand, attempting to move him along.

“Sorry, just one second,” Jimin promised before turning back to face Jeongguk. He could already feel tears brimming on his waterline as he sniffled. “Jeongguk, what are you doing here?”

“I’m flying back to New York with you,” he offered, grinning.

“Oh, god. Please don’t make this harder than it already is,” Jimin begged.

“I always imagined what proposing to you would be like. And you know what? I had it all planned out—oh, right behind you, don’t mind me,” Jeongguk’s apologize to the man in front of him then turned back to face Jimin. 

“I’d bring you to my favorite spot in the city. There’s a hidden trail I used to go to as a child which leads to a cove that opens up to a lake. It’s beautiful, really, you would love it—sorry, dude,” he was once again cut off by the passenger in front of him loudly struggling to take a pair of earbuds out of his bag, “Give me a second, let me just pass by.” 

He snuck by the man and returned his attention to Jimin. His own vision blurred as he clung to the neck pillow in his hand.

“When the sun finally would hit the horizon, I’d get down on one knee,” Jeongguk continued to which Jimin sighed. “And the rest of the world would suddenly fall away. Because it would just be you—,” he eyed the woman struggling to shove her luggage into the overhead compartment. “—it would just be you and— sorry, I can help you with that,” Jeongguk offered, fed up with the distractions. “Jimin, stay there.” 

His boyfriend then took to helping the woman in front of him and put her carry-on size suitcase above them before he was bumped by another woman failing to do the same.

“You need some help there as well?” Jeongguk asked and took the liberty to aid her in storing her luggage too. Then he slid through the row of three seats in the middle of the plane so he could be face to face with Jimin. “Everyone okay? Because I seriously just need thirty seconds with this man.” When he looked back to the shorter, he was down on one knee. Jimin gasped, his mouth hung open and dry, unlike his eyes which had been glazed over for the last few minutes.

“I know this is far from a hidden paradise, but wherever you are in the world, that’s where I belong.” He pulled out a velvet ring box. Jimin expected to see the same ring from before.

“Jeongguk, I—.”

When Jeongguk finally popped it open, the ring sitting inside was none other than Jiyoon’s emerald ring made especially for her. 

“Park Jimin, will you marry me and make me the happiest man in the world?” He pleaded. Jimin felt yet another tear roll down his face as he covered his mouth with one hand, feeling more overwhelmed than he’d ever had before.

“Yes! Yes! Yes, he will marry you!” The woman behind Jimin exclaimed. Jimin handed her the neck pillow and faced Jeongguk once more.

“Yes!” He replied, smiling from ear to ear as the cabin erupted into cheers and applause. Jeongguk slid the ring on his finger, making for a perfect fit before standing up and pulling Jimin into a kiss. Jeongguk smashed their lips together and held Jimin by the waist, leaning into the smaller’s frame. 

“I love you.”

“I love you, too. This is gonna be some flight back to New York,” Jimin giggled, cupping Jeongguk’s cheeks before pressing their foreheads together.

“I was actually thinking we’d stay one more night,” Jeongguk replied, breaking into a smile before he could even get the words out then kissing Jimin again, just as he did minutes ago and every time before.

~~~

mood: vote - Miguel

The last few hours had been a blur. Jimin and his mom were both whisked off the plane by a persuasive Jeongguk. Mijeong reassured Jimin that she was only heading back to the Kim’s since they offered and she didn’t want to pay for a hotel room for just one night, but there was something happening that Jimin wasn’t quite sure of yet.

He picked out a simple pink dress with bow detailing down the back forming a corset-like top and did his hair up with a good blow dry.

“Where are you taking me tonight, Jeongguk?” He asked. Jeongguk had quickly gotten dressed, a plain dress shirt with black slacks, then spent the entire period it took Jimin to get ready on his phone, a cheeky smirk seemingly stuck permanently on his face.

“It’s a surprise.” Jeongguk got up on his feet and came up behind Jimin, caging him in a back hug and planting kisses on every visible spot. Jimin giggled into every peck and splotch left on his skin. “Speaking of said surprise, are you almost ready, babe? The taxi is on its way.”

“I figured you would just be taking me out to dinner,” Jimin laughed.

“Dinner, come on, baby. You know me better than that? We can get dinner anywhere in the world. I wanted to stay one more night to celebrate us and our news in the most spectacular way.” Jeongguk took Jimin by the hand and led him out of the hotel room. He always had been the romantic out of the two of them, constantly planning surprises and getting Jimin gifts, even if they were just flowers or a sweet little love note in his briefcase to get him through the day. 

Jimin found himself swept into the taxi and as they pulled up the their destination, Jeongguk gently wrapped a blindfold around his eyes, the perfect shade of pink to match Jimin’s dress. 

“Where are you taking me?” Jimin asked, chuckling as he wobbled out of the cab with Jeongguk’s help. 

“You alright? Can you stand, baby?” He laughed, before leading Jimin to what he could figure out to be some sort of building, then they were in an elevator for what seemed like forever. 

Once they stepped out of the elevator, they seemed to be outside and Jimin sensed several eyes on him before Jeongguk untied his blindfold revealing a massive engagement party on the top deck of a casino. The crowd consisted of both Jeongguk’s and Jimin’s friends and family and they cheered and screamed for the couple.

Jimin broke into a wide grin and nearly toppled over from pure glee.

At the front stood Jisoo and Namjoon who jumped with excitement, arms open. Jimin hugged Jisoo who hollered in her face.

“Jimin’s getting married!” She cheered. Jeongguk hugged Namjoon just as tightly, rocking side to side in his arms.

“It’s all you now, mate, all you!” He exclaimed. 

“I’m so happy, Hyung!” Jeongguk boomed, hopping with joy as he held Namjoon.

Jimin spotted Seokjin next and hugged him gladly, he was by himself, but he looked gorgeous, as he always did.

“So, so happy things worked out, Jimin,” He congratulated Jimin with a kiss on the cheek before he found himself face to face with Hoseok. He waved his hands in the air, gesturing to see the gem on Jimin’s finger.

“I mean, look at this thing,” Jimin pointed to his ring finger, the emerald gleaming in the colored lights. Hoseok smiled at the brunette before Jimin moved on to say hello to Taehyung. 

He threw his arms around his best friend, grinning, and he too jumped in his arms, so delighted with himself and his life.

“You bagged the crown prince, bitch!” Taehyung exclaimed.

“I know!” Jimin replied, glitter and glee seeping in his veins.

“You deserve it.”

“I’m getting married!” 

Jimin quickly hugged Taehyung’s mother, jokingly pushed his father out of the way to make room for his own mother.

“My beautiful boy is engaged,” she cried, holding Jimin in her maternal arms. Jimin would never get tired of being gently cradled by his mom, whatever his mood may be.

Jeongguk came up behind Jimin and pointed out the group of synchronized swimmers in the pool next to the deck. Jimin gasped, shocked at the party being put together so quickly. No wonder everyone around him was acting so suspicious. He giggled and leaned up to kiss Jeongguk’s cheek.

Out of the corner of his eye, he caught Jiyoon towards the middle of the crowd, Jeongguk’s other aunties surrounding her at a standing table. He locked eye contact with her for a brief second before flashing a smile-like smirk. Without even being given the chance to think, Jeongguk took Jimin by the waist and dipped him low to the ground, kissing him intently. 

When he came back up for air, Jiyoon was gone.

Bak, bak, bitch.