Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Moodboard by: @Jiminszephyr

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"We are running late by precisely eight minutes,” Juri comments tightly, holding up her phone demonstratively. “I told you to let the stylist pick out your shoes. We lost eight minutes because you couldn’t decide on a damn pair of shoes–”

“Come on, Juri. It’s good for my reputation to be fashionably late.”

“I don’t know if we’ll be fashionably late or just late late with this traffic,” Juri grumbles at him.

“I know you want to roll your eyes at me.”

She purses her lips, straightening herself. “With all due respect, Jungkook-ssi, you hired me because of my good management skills, so would you please listen to me when I recommend delegating tasks, like picking out an outfit, to the people that actually know what they are doing?”

Jungkook pauses with his hands on the dress shoes he finally decided on. “Juri, you forget I also hired you because you are immaculate at giving me a humane schedule.” He cocks his head to the side. “And because you get my family off my back. Also, did you just imply I have no style?”

Juri pushes her phone screen at Jungkook’s face again. Her scent turns stronger, indicating her impatience. “Ten minutes!”

Jungkook groans but gives in. He secretly likes getting nagged by her. “I’m on my way, for Goddess’ sake. Another boring gala, another boring–”

“Sajang-nim, you wanted to go to this one,” Juri interjects, giving him a scolding look. 

“I did?”

“I have it on tape because I knew this would happen. Want me to play it for you?”

Jungkook would be scared for his life if Juri was someone else’s personal assistant/secretary/investigator/drill sergeant. The beta has evidence for everything and she can get evidence for everything. Jungkook hired her straight out of college four years ago, so it’s a mystery to him where she learned how to do all this. She studied sociology, for Goddess’ sake, so why does she behave like she worked for a national intelligence company?

“I’m sure they will have a chocolate fountain to entertain you,” Juri comments briskly.

Jungkook fakes a gasp at her. “That was a low blow, even for you.”

“Or maybe even a real fountain, who knows. Last time they had a whole zoo there.”

“It was one goat,” Jungkook stresses.

“And you had to get vaccinated afterwards because you hugged her.”

“I had to get vaccinated against the flu, not because I touched a goat. A lovely goat, by the way. Her name was Bertie.”

Juri scoffs, pushing past the alpha. “Dohyun-ssi is waiting. And we are fifteen minutes behind schedule!”

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Dohyun drives a little like he is perpetually stuck between an adrenaline rush and nonchalance. Today, it’s the adrenaline rush—triggered by Juri, who is shouting at him to take a shortcut. The alpha driver has no power next to Juri. No one does. Jungkook accepted that the second he hired her. She could probably run the entire company if necessary.

Jungkook is still holding on for dear life in the back seat though, hoping he won’t get car sick. And yes, he has to admit, being late is never a good look, even for a guy like him who always runs low on time. Which is why he has Juri, who makes sure his schedule is tailored to work perfectly, and Dohyun, who takes him from A to B in Seoul’s insufferable traffic. 

From Hannam-dong to the venue where the annual Charity Gala of Seoul’s high society takes place (that’s not its actual name, Jungkook doesn’t know the actual name) it is a thirty-minute commute, and Juri has Dohyun attempting to get there in twenty, or fifteen preferably. 

Jungkook’s phone vibrates in his pocket and he welcomes the distraction. “Yes?” he answers the call, voice shaking slightly from being thrown around in the car. 

“Can you babysit?” Seokjin wonders in lieu of greeting. In the background, it sounds like someone is calling “Cut!”. Seokjin must be calling him from set.

“No, I’m on my way to the fundraiser thing,” Jungkook answers. 

“Huh? Namjoon said you aren’t going? He was moping all week about having to go alone.”

“Changed my mind. I have to appear in public twice a year, after all. This marks the second time and, consequently, freedom for the rest of the year. And don’t lie; Namjoon loves networking.”

“What was the first?” Seokjin questions, ignoring his comment about Namjoon. “I don’t remember you coming to my movie premiere although you were invited.”

“You aren’t still mad about that, are you?” Jungkook laughs nervously. He simply can’t show up to all the events Seokjin invites him to throughout the year. His lavish birthday parties, Christmas parties, summer parties, movie premieres, TV show premieres… Not to mention the parties he throws without any reason.

“I expect a good Christmas present this year.”

“Noted.” Well, that sounded like a threat. Jungkook has to remember to tell Juri to add that to his list of things he has to take care of before winter rolls around and things get messy.

“Nothing cheap like last year,” Seokjin adds on. 

Jungkook got him a vintage designer lamp that was hard to find and almost cost him a liver. 

Jungkook scoffs incredulously. “Now you’re stretching–” Dohyun takes a sharp turn left, propelling Jungkook’s phone out of his hand.

“Dohyun-ssi, step on it! We might make it on time!” Juri exclaims, sounding borderline hysterical.

He almost dislocates his shoulder as he fishes his phone from beneath the leather seat. 

“Hello? Did you just die on me while we’re on the phone?!” Seokjin yells on the other end of the line.

“I’m alive,” he says breathily. 

“Oh, good. I wasn’t prepared to call Juri already and tell her she can work for me now,” Seokjin says with a relieved sigh.

“I told you you can’t have her!” 

Juri’s head whips around. “Is that Seokjin oppa?” She sounds a little too excited for Jungkook’s taste.

Jungkook gives her a stern look. “No.”

Seokjin, however, rambles on, “I would pay her triple of what you pay her. She’d get to travel with me and she wouldn’t have to deal with your poor lifestyle choices. I’d treat her so well.”

Jungkook is tired of the conversation. “Look, hyung, we’re almost there. I gotta go.”

“Can you babysit tomorrow though? I have to hop on a last minute plane to Croatia. New shoot is starting a week early.”

His scent spikes. He pinches the bridge of his nose. “Your cat stays at my place more often than at yours. You have three assistants, hyung. She’s well-fed and taken care of.”

“But she needs supervision!” Seokjin protests passionately. “Catherine likes you. It’s a mystery to me why, but I shall not question her very questionable taste in questionable humans. Hussein will drop her off tomorrow before my flight with her favorite toys.”

“Hussein? Is that a new one?”

“I don’t know, is he?” He sounds like he genuinely doesn’t know. “Namjoon introduces them to me and I give them treats when they do well. He takes care of all that, as you know.”

Jungkook doubts Namjoon personally hires assistants for Seokjin as the CEO of his company, but Jungkook will let the omega stay under the impression. 

“Fine, you can drop Catherine off at my place.”

“You’re the only reliable alpha on this earth,” Seokjin says ebulliently. “Kisses, hugs, love, Jungkook.”

Jungkook’s lips twitch up. “Hmmm. Tell me more. Or, actually, say it out loud in front of Namjoon hyung next time. Or maybe I will tell him in a few minutes at the gala.”

“Tell him! I stand by it! He insisted on me taking on that horrible script Julia sent over. There’s no way I’m playing some washed up lawyer!” He scoffs in disbelief. 

“Yoongi would be hurt hearing that,” Jungkook chuckles. Despite being a handful, Seokjin always lifts his mood. Life can get bleak real quick when you’re stuck in meetings until midnight and the people around you all have sticks up their asses that they got as from Harvard and Oxford. 

Seokjin makes an indignant sound. “He has thick skin. And he knows lawyers are the scum of the earth.”

“Last month it was the producers. Namjoon hyung was lowkey offended.”

“That was when I was dating Taechul. But I dropped his ass and moved on. Producers are…tolerable.”

Jungkook shakes his head. Yeah, Taechul was just one of many short-lived relationships Seokjin went through. For some reason, he never picks well and it always ends in a disaster. Seokjin might call Jungkook boring, but they have one thing in common: they suck at love. Jungkook swore off dating years ago when he made more money than he could ever spend ever again and his name got thrown around town with Most Eligible Bachelor attached to it. He got burned one too many times. Enough to make him only engage in impersonal one-night-stands a few times a year. Sue him, he’s a thirty-four-year-old alpha with no personal life and a lot of steam to blow off.

“Jungkook-ssi, we are here,” Juri announces from the front seat when the car comes to a sudden stop that sends Jungkook forward. His face almost kisses the back of the leather seat.

“Was that Juri’s lovely voice?” Seokjin says curiously. “She has my number! She can call me–”

“Bye, hyung.” Jungkook hangs up mercilessly, flashing Juri a blinding smile. “Let’s donate some money, shall we?”

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Juri goes everywhere with him. If Jungkook asked her, she would probably live at his place. But he’s not that dependent, Goddess forbid. The beta gets enough vacation days to make the regular corporate employee want to kill themselves, yet she never takes them. Jungkook tries to compensate by giving her more Christmas money or random gifts. She doesn’t care. If you ask Jungkook, she’s a robot. A scary but awfully efficient and irreplaceable robot.

“You should stay a minimum of three hours if you don’t want to appear rude. After that, you can feign an urgent business matter,” she whispers in his ear as they enter the charity gala. 

Jungkook nods rigidly. “Will do.”

“First, we have to say hello to Director Kang. She’ll be ecstatic to have you here. We also have to shake hands with Han Minhyuk,” Juri begins listing. “And his mate. Don’t forget his mate. Min Taekyung of Beraisa. Then there’s Do Gyungchul, he could be a good investor in case you were actzally considering branching out into…”

Jungkook tries his best to listen to her itinerary of influential people whose hands he has to shake and preferably convince them of himself, but his brain shuts off somewhere in the middle. Networking is tedious and draining, and Jungkook grew incredibly annoyed by it after he realized it will be a part of the job that never stops.

Jungkook’s mood lifts when he spots Namjoon standing in a circle with three others. 

Juri protests immediately. “No, no, sajang-nim, we have to greet the director of the foundation first. She’s right over there–”

“I’ll head there right after I say hi to Namjoon,” Jungkook promises, quickening his pace just enough to still seem calm and collected. Juri stays behind, grabbing champagne from the nearest tray with a heavy sigh.

He gets spotted by Namjoon once he’s close. The fellow alpha smiles, his teeth flashing. “Jungkook! I didn’t realize you were coming. Guys, I’m sure you all know Jeon Jungkook, right?”

The three other faces aren’t really familiar to Jungkook. One of them looks like an idol signed under Indigo Records. Jungkook forgot his name. He does give Jungkook an interesting look though; something long and lingering, like he knows very well who Jungkook is. 

The other two seem like a couple. The female alpha holding onto the female omega is the CEO of a different entertainment company, so it would make sense for Namjoon to know her. The female omega also looks famous—Jungkook has seen her face on his flatscreen before.

“Jungkook-ssi,” the idol breathes, offering a hand. “I’m Doha. We’ve seen each other at Kim Seokjin’s parties before, haven’t we?”

“Oh, right, yes. I remember very clearly,” Jungkook says (not so nonchalantly).

“See, I know everyone in this indurstry, but no one outside of it except for you,” the female alpha says charmingly. “If you weren’t in this line of business, I’d sign you under my label.”

“He’d be signed under my label, Cherry,” Namjoon stresses teasingly.

Cherry—Jungkook now remembers her label is called Cherry Tunes—chuckles warmly. “Of course, Namjoon. You two are friends, after all.”

Jungkook channels the side of him that hoards a sliver of rhetorical talent. “I’ll think about it. Once mid-life crisis hits, I might explore.”

“Ah, you still have a decade in you!” Cherry exclaims. Her mate slaps Cherry’s arm playfully, laughing wholeheartedly as if she just made the funniest joke ever.

“Love, he has at least two more in him,” her mate says sweetly, pointing at Jungkook. “Look at this suit! The jawline! He’d look good on television. A little blush and a bit of lip tint and we could sell him.”

“I would?” Jungkook questions innocently, indulging them. Namjoon sends him a look of acknowledgement, as if he didn’t expect Jungkook to do so well.

Doha chimes in again. “Oh, you’d be the audience’s favorite.” He winks at Jungkook.

“I must be in the wrong line of work,” Jungkook feigns to lament. “Hyung, I should become a trainee.”

“You’re too old. You’d not make it a year.”

Cherry gasps. “Namjoon is lying! With the right diet, a few pills here and there, and maybe a bit of cheek filler, we can make you look twenty.”

Jungkook cringes internally. He does not want to be twenty again, thank you. Also, pills? Cheek filler?

This is the sign he needed to politely exit the conversation. “It was very nice to talk to you, but I have to greet the director. I wouldn’t want to miss out on expressing my gratitude and awe for this beautiful event.”

Cherry and her mate look touched. “Yes, sweetheart, you do that. Director Kang is so lovely. We had dinner at her house the other day. Ah, she has this gorgeous indoor fountain. We are thinking about implementing that in our vacation house on Jeju island.”

“Sounds…awesome,” Jungkook replies slowly. He turns to Doha and Namjoon. “I’m sure we’ll see each other. Have a lovely evening, Doha-ssi.”

“You too, Jungkook-ssi. It was nice finally meeting each other officially.”

Jungkook smiles his most polite smile. “Yes, very nice.” 

Namjoon leans over slightly so the others don’t hear. “Did Seokjin hyung ask you to babysit Catherine again? He was blowing up my phone with texts.”

“Hyung, I’ve been meaning to talk to you about this. That cat is more my cat than Seokjin hyung’s at this point.”

Namjoon pinches the bridge of his nose. “My blood pressure is already too high. That omega will manage to send me to an early grave. I’m glad I’ll be out of the country next week.”

“Will you visit Megan?” Jungkook wonders, having not heard about this schedule yet. 

“Yes, we decided to make more time for each other.”

Megan, Namjoon’s mate, is a famous American rapper. They are both incredibly busy, but to Jungkook their relationship is the epitome of romance. Namjoon has written and produced several of her songs, and she’s written several about him in return. Namjoon writes letters to her and sends them to the US, he mentions his mate in almost every interview and his house is covered in posters of her.

Jungkook squeezes the alpha’s shoulder. “Let’s talk over drinks next week. Yoongi hyung still has that Macallan 1926 Scotch, remember?"

“Goddess, I need that.”

Jungkook smirks. “I’ll make it happen.”

They part ways, agreeing to meet each other again once the buffet opens and the director has held her speech. The mingling will begin all over again once that happens and Jungkook won’t have to stay much longer. Urgent business matter, he recalls. Honestly, there is always some sort of business matter Jungkook has to tend to so it doesn’t feel like much of a lie anyway.

Juri appears at his side again like a ghost. “Enjoying yourself?” he asks her, nudging her shoulder.

“No. The champagne tastes horrible.”

“I hate champagne.”

She pauses, looking alarmed. “I need to add that to your list of things you dislike, Jungkook-ssi. Last year, for your birthday, we had three different champagne brands and–”

“Juri, I was joking. Champagne is fine.”

She doesn’t look convinced. “Is this like that one time you said letting your mother and sister go on vacation with you is fine, but then complained to me for two weeks straight?”

“No, that–” he hesitates for a second. “Don’t ever let them invade my vacations again."

“Noted. So champagne–”

“For Goddess’ sake, champagne is fine, Juri.” 

“Okay, okay,” she mutters under her breath, still jotting down something in that notebook of hers she carries around everywhere. Jungkook’s entire life is probably in there. He prays it will never fall into the wrong hands.

“Oh, there’s the director!” Juri exclaims, tugging on Jungkook’s arm. 

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After greeting Director Kang—an elderly beta philanthropist in charge of the charity gala—Jungkook finds himself Juri-less.

She parked him at the bar with the order to get himself a drink to loosen up and endure the next two hours, and left to take a few work-related calls. This counts as betrayal, in Jungkook’s opinion. She can pull the work card to get out of this bullshit but he can’t? 

Namjoon is nowhere to be seen either and he isn’t responding to Jungkook’s texts. It couldn’t be worse. 

There are a couple of people at the bar but they make a beeline around Jungkook—probably because he doesn’t look friendly and approachable. The last tabloid that published an article on him called him Korea’s Most Elusive and Unapproachable CEO, which basically just means he gives off major asshole-alpha vibes, like Seokjin always says.

He’s been nursing some sweet-tasting concoction the bartender made twenty minutes ago, praying for Juri’s return. If she doesn’t come back in ten minutes, Jungkook will hand her over to Seokjin. Against her belief, she’ll hate working for him.

“Is this seat taken?”

The pleasant voice has Jungkook turning around faster than he should. He finds himself face-to-face with someone that rivals the Goddess herself. Blonde hair, full lips, a neckline crafted by angels. As if blinded, Jungkook blinks stupidly, mouth hanging open for a second too long before he manages to croak out, “No. Yeah, no, it’s, uh– free. Totally free.”

The stranger sits down in elegant glory, the faint scent of something floral and alluring drifting over. Definitely an omega, albeit he must be wearing blockers.

Jungkook tears his gaze away, remembering who he is and what he’s doing. He can’t be openly ogling an omega at a charity gala where everyone attending is part of the same high society. Every single piece of gossip travels at the speed of light. Jungkook’s name could be in the tabloids together with the gorgeous omega sitting to his right, who must be an idol, actor, or maybe a model. Someone extremely famous, Jungkook concludes. Someone he doesn't know because being Seokjin’s best friend is enough intimate contact with pop culture.

He clears his throat and focuses on his drink. Juri, please come back.

A phone vibrates. Jungkook looks up, thinking it’s his. He placed it on the counter earlier. He reaches for it—his hand bumps into the omega’s.

“Uhm,” the omega says.

“Uhm,” Jungkook echoes, realizing belatedly that it’s not his phone that vibrated with a text but the omega’s. “Sorry, mistook it for mine.” He wants to die.

The eye contact could burn through all layers of clothing Jungkook has on. The omega’s gaze is confrontative, his head slightyl cocked to the side. Jungkook is sure he’s about to accuse him of inappropriate behavior.

“Waiting for important news?” the omega asks…nicely. Nicely.

“No, just for something to entertain me,” Jungkook blurts, surprised at the civil tone.

The omega draws his perfectly shaped brows together. “This evening isn’t entertaining?”

“Goddess, it is. It’s lovely. Whoever Director Kang hired this year did an amazing job. I don’t know if you were here last year, but, frankly—don’t tell her I said this—it was a hot mess. The cake exploded. Don’t ask me how, but it did. Landed all over the guests.”

“I wasn’t here, but I heard, yeah.” The omega looks highly amused. “I agree, by the way. This year’s gala is going great.” 

“So, yeah, I’m technically thoroughly entertained by all this–” he gestures around wildly “– but I just have limited energy for all the social interaction.”

The omega pulls the corners of his perfectly-shaped lips up. “But you’re interacting with me right now, uh…”

“Jungkook,” Jungkook says quickly. “Jeon Jungkook.”

The omega nods smoothly. “Well, Jungkook-ssi, I hope talking to me isn’t exhausting you.”

“Oh, it certainly isn’t.” He dares to smirk. “In fact, it’s rejuvenating.”

“Rejuvenating?” That draws a bright laugh from him. “I’m flattered.”

“That was the goal…” he says, lowering his gaze to indicate he wants to know the omega’s name.

“Jimin,” the omega provides, still chuckling.

Jungkook’s interest in the omega skyrockets. Subconsciously, he turns his body towards him, breathing in some more of that intoxicating scent. “So, tell me, Jimin-ssi, what made you come to the bar?”

“Trying to escape the stress,” Jimin answers.

“Stress?”

“Work related. Nothing some alcohol can’t fix.”

“You haven’t ordered anything though, Jimin-ssi,” Jungkook notes, nodding at the bartender at the other end of the bar, arguing with some old omega.

“Goddess, she seems like a handful,” Jimin mumbles, gaze glued to the escalating conversation. His brows knit together and he tenses up. He seems worried. “What is she even complaining about?”

“With people like her it’s always something absurd,” Jungkook scoffs, shaking his head. 

“I should go over there and tell her to not cause a scene at my–”

“No need,” Jungkook interrupts softly. “She’s leaving.”

Jimin leans back, looking utterly relieved. “Okay, good.” He exhales, removing his hands from the counter. “I should have brought cigarettes.”

“You want to go outside for a smoke?” Jungkook offers, showing him the inside of his jacket where he sneaked in a pack of emergency cigarettes. He doesn’t smoke except when he does smoke—which is usually whenever he has to relieve some stress or when he wants to look cool. In this case, it’s obviously the latter.

Jimin perks up, his eyes lighting up. “Actually, you know what? That’d be fucking amazing.”

“Oh, cursing. I like it.”

That earns Jungkook another chuckle. “Alright, Jungkook-ssi, lead me outside.”

Like the true gentleman Seokjin raised him to be, Jungkook gets up and offers his arm for Jimin to take. “Follow me, Jimin-ssi.”

Jimin slips from his barstool, and Jungkook’s alpha instincts have the audacity to point out that Jimin only reaches Jungkook’s shoulder. 

Jimin takes Jungkook’s arm, smiling. His eyes turn into crescents. Goddess, he’s maddeningly beautiful. 

Suddenly, Jungkook is glad he changed his mind and came to the gala after all.

They glide through the crowd, heading for the outside area that incorporates a giant garden with all kinds of flowers and eccentric bush designs that Jungkook doesn’t hesitate to point out. 

“It looks like something very inappropriate,” he mentions to Jimin when they come to a halt and stare at the armada of weird-looking bushes.

Jimin looks scandalized. “Jungkook-ssi, are you implying what I think you are implying right now?”

“How do I know that you know what I am implying?”

“I came here to smoke, not to analyze the admittedly questionable choices of the garden design. I should complain about that, actually.”

Jungkook nods, smirking slightly. “But you see what I’m seeing, aren’t you?”

Looking away—not without hiding the laugh that blooms on his face—Jimin shakes his head in incredulity. He holds out his hand demandingly. “Don’t make me suffer any longer or I’ll change my mind. I quit smoking seven years ago.”

“Doesn’t look like you actually quit though,” Jungkook comments teasingly, handing over the cigarettes and a lighter. “There you go.”

“This is an exception,” Jimin explains. The omega holds one cigarette between his fingers and gives the pack back already. “I really need this."

“Do you now?”

“Are you enjoying teasing me, Jungkook-ssi?”

“Me?” Jungkook lifts his brows in feigned surprise. “Not in a million years. I’d never draw pleasure from watching an omega in distress because he needs a smoke.”

“Is that sadism I detect?” Jimin questions flirtatiously. 

Jungkook shrugs nonchalantly. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

Jimin attempts to light the cigarette. The wind sabotages him, though. “This stupid…”

“Let me,” Jungkook mumbles, taking the cigarette and lighter from him. He puts it in his own mouth, shields it with one hand and lights it with the other. It catches on immediately and he takes one drag to ensure it stays on.

Jimin watches him closely, lips parted slightly. Jungkook holds eye contact as he blows out the smoke and gives the cigarette back, announcing, “It was my pleasure.”

“And they say alphas aren’t chivalrous anymore,” Jimin comments with raised brows.

“A lie they spread to give us a bad reputation.”

Jimin laughs dryly. “Oh, you have to admit, a lot of you are more like wild animals than sophisticated members of society. Flaunting with your scent, posturing, turning all possessive and insufferable…”

“Hm,” Jungkook hums. “I distance myself from such misguided individuals. I was raised better.”

“Is that so?” Jimin’s eyes turn inquisitive. Beckoning, somehow. He smokes leisurely, as if the conversation he and Jungkook are having might be more interesting after all. Jungkook is determined to keep it this way. He hasn't had this much fun in a while. 

“Very much so.”

“I’m afraid I need proof.”

“Proof?” Jungkook repeats. He unwillingly gawks at Jimin. Is Jimin implying what he thinks he’s implying?

Jimin blows out smoke, confidently shifting on his feet. His scent has turned sweeter, slipping past the scent blockers Jimin’s wearing—or is Jungkook’s mind playing tricks on him? Is he that hopeless?

“Forget what I said,” Jimin says, smiling mysteriously.

He can’t just play with Jungkook’s heart like that. He can’t just do all this to Jungkook although they only met thirty minutes ago. He can’t just intoxicate Jungkook with the way he smells, behaves, talks, and looks.

“I can submit proof,” Jungkook says in a low voice. He subtly scans the area, realizing that they are, in fact, alone out here suddenly. Inside, something must have started. The cake probably came. But who fucking cares when you have something much more alluring in front of you?

Jimin arches a brow in challenge. He comes an inch closer, dragging his eyes over Jungkook. “Where would you submit it though?”

“I know a few places,” Jungkook replies, his breath quickening. His pulse follows. Jimin is so close suddenly—Jungkook feels Jimin’s breath on his skin. He looks up at Jungkook, eyes the personification of temptation.

With a last drag, Jimin finishes his cigarette. He nods at the two-meter-high hedge. “I know some too.”

Elegantly, Jimin removes himself from Jungkook’s vicinity, strolling towards said hedge. His gaze says everything Jungkook needs to know.

Jungkook swallows, stifles a laugh, and then follows Jimin with his hands in his pockets. He walks at an adequate pace, never breaking eye contact with the omega.

The shade offered by the green hedge has Jungkook cornering Jimin. He doesn’t touch the omega yet, making sure he has the last bit of consent he needs, but he gets closer with his gaze narrowed, his eyes blazing. His blood is already rushing south, setting his skin on fire. Every sense is tuned in, perceiving every single thing Jimin reveals. Pheromones permeate the air. “You really want this?”

“You said you’d show me proof, Jungkook-ssi,” Jimin shoots back, voice hoarse, letting himself be caged in by Jungkook. “Are you backing out?”

“Do I look like I am?”

The omega takes a shaky breath, a red hue appearing on his cheeks. His scent reveals that he wants this. That he wants Jungkook. 

Jungkook doesn’t do reckless. He didn’t come this far in his career by being impulsive. But Jimin—the way his eyelashes flutter and his rosy lips part, the way he holds his breath when Jungkook touches his waist, the way he places a tentative hand on Jungkook’s chest—has Jungkook abandoning all his inhibitions, all his sanity. 

“Will you show me proof now?” Jimin whispers.

That was the last thing Jungkook needed. He surges forward, catching Jimin’s lips in a soul-shattering kiss. He releases more pheromones, they mingle with the omega’s. Bells go off in his mind, a clear symphony of attraction and lust. 

Jimin presses himself against him, his body fitting perfectly. He whines against Jungkook’s lips, opening up for Jungkook to explore the cavern of his mouth with his tongue. Everything is a whirlwind of hunger and desire, of doing something reckless with a stranger you don’t know but feel inadvertently and undeniably attracted to. So much, you could drown in it all.

His hands wander over Jimin’s body, touching the omega’s lithe curves, slipping under his blouse, caressing his warm skin, cupping his ass, squeezing the fat of his thigh, which he lifts and throws over Jungkook’s middle, pulling him even closer.  

Jungkook chases for his lips, bites into them, grunting in pleasure. He’s feeling dazed, absolutely beyond himself. Jimin is unreal. He is an illusion. 

The chemistry between them is so painfully obvious, Jungkook can’t fucking function.

When Jimin pulls off with a crazed expression on his face and a breathy laugh on the tip of his tongue, Jungkook almost faints. His lips are swollen, coated with saliva. He looks like a dream. “You smell nice,” he says easily, like it won’t make Jungkook lose his mind. “Like amberwood.”

Yeah, Jungkook’s gone.

Jimin's smile turns devious. “I’ve received partial proof so far that you aren’t like all the other alphas with pea-sized brains.”

“What more proof do you need, love?” 

“I think I know where to find it,” Jimin says vaguely. Suddenly, he pokes Jungkook’s chest and begins dragging his finger downwards, further and further. 

Jungkook shudders, following the finger with his eyes. His tie is already loose around his neck—courtesy of Jimin tearing it open earlier—his shirt is wrinkled, and his slacks begin feeling too tight. The touch of Jimin’s finger feels like it’s burning him. His nerve-endings are getting wrecked, his brain wiped empty. He can only stare, shudder, and send a silent prayer.

Finally, Jimin reaches the end. His hand hovers over Jungkook’s crotch. He stares Jungkook down, biting his lip playfully. “You better not mess up my face.”

“What?” Jungkook rasps, his brain not following.

Jimin slides to his knees, his breath hitting Jungkook’s clothed cock.

Jungkook sucks in a sharp breath. “Fuck, love, are you sure–”

“Shut up and let me do this,” Jimin cuts in, opening the alpha’s slacks. 

“Jimin,” he says, dropping the honorifics, “I–”

“Quiet,” Jimin commands with a stern look, pausing for a second. 

Jungkook’s words die in the back of his throat. He licks his lips, his whole body tingling. Jimin’s hands look tiny down there but they work with precision and efficiency as he pulls down the zipper and tugs down Jungkook’s slacks and underwear. 

His cock springs free, dripping with pre-cum already. Jimin’s eyes go wide and he loses some of that precision he had a second ago. He seems almost tentative when he grabs Jungkook’s cock, wrapping his fingers around it. His hand looks so small next to it, it turns Jungkook on even more.

“Fuck,” Jungkook breathes—he’s so eloquent.

“You’re huge,” Jimin murmurs, eyeing his cock hungrily. “You better not fuck my throat without permission, alpha.”

As if on command, Jungkook’s cock dribbles out pre-cum and this time Jimin reacts immediately; he laps it up while looking at Jungkook pliantly. Jungkook can’t breathe. He can’t do anything but let Jimin devour him. He runs a hand over his face, in disbelief of his current reality.

Jimin looks unbothered. He seems to fully get settled in, gaze focused on Jungkook’s cock like it’s a puzzle he has to solve. Or has already solved—Jungkook has no idea. The world around him blurs. Only Jimin remains visible. 

And Jimin delivers. 

He takes the head into his mouth, sucking. Jungkook’s legs quiver in response and he mutters a curse under his breath to which Jimin pops off and says, “Oh, cursing. I like it.”

Jungkook blurts a laugh. “You’re unreal.”

Jimin replies by taking his cock back into his mouth. He strokes the length with both hands, moaning. It sends vibrations through Jungkook’s cock—all the way to his core. 

“You’re a fucking tease,” he grunts, throwing his head back in pleasure.

Jimin really gets to work then. He begins sucking Jungkook off in earnest, swallowing around him. He withdraws, keeps stroking Jungkook’s length with his hand and pays attention to his balls with his mouth. They feel heavier than ever, getting ready to release the biggest load in a freaking decade.

Jungkook is holding on for dear life, trying to remember his own name. This omega is sucking the life out of him right now. And he looks divine while doing it.

Jimin’s mouth is completely covered in pre-cum, saliva and one or two stray tears that roll out of the corner of his eyes. Jungkook almost feels the urge to apologize since Jimin requested he better not mess up his face. But his face isn’t messed up; it’s decorated.

“Come down my throat,” Jimin says raspily. He sticks out his tongue and opens his mouth wide.

Not having to be told twice, Jungkook takes a hold of his own cock and guides it to Jimin’s lips which are waiting for him so patiently. He sighs in pleasure when it slides in, his eyes falling shut for a split second when Jimin’s mouth closes around it, engulfing it in heat. 

“You can take it,” Jungkook praises, pushing in deeper. “Shit, yes, just like that, love.”

The smell of sweet, alluring slick hits Jungkook’s nose. His mouth salivates. “Are you wet for me, love? Getting wet while you suck me off, hm?”

Jimin nods, his eyes welling up with tears.

“Stay just like that,” Jungkook commands softly. “I’ll give it to you.”

He pushes out slowly, only to push back in. Jimin chokes around him, but he doesn’t stop. In fact, he grabs Jungkook’s thighs and draws him in. 

Jungkook’s balls draw together, and he grabs Jimin’s hair, pulling on it slightly. Jimin moans shamelessly around his cock, his eyes rolling in the back of his head.

Jungkook comes without warning then. His vision goes blank when he shoots white cum down Jimin’s throat, his thighs quivering. 

Jimin pulls off then, cum spilling from his lips. Jungkook’s cock shoots the last bits right onto his lips. It trickles down his chin, dropping to the ground. 

Heavy breaths tear out of Jungkook and he watches in awe how Jimin collects everything that spilled with his fingers, how he licks his lips, making sure he got every drop, before licking his fingers too, swallowing thickly, as if to ensure Jungkook is witnessing that he just swallowed every last bit of his load.

When he’s done, he wipes over his mouth with the back of his hand, sighing. “Well, that–” he sounds so fucked out, so hoarse, he has to clear his throat before he attempts to speak again. “That was good.”

Jungkook’s brain slowly comes back to reality. He can still smell Jimin’s slick. He needs to taste it. He needs to take care of Jimin–

“Do you have a tissue or something?”

“Huh?”

“Oh, is that a handkerchief? That will do.” Jimin pulls the handkerchief Jungkook carries in most suits out of the inner pocket of his jacket and uses it to wipe his face of any residual cum and saliva. He fixes his hair next—or tries to, at least—then his outfit, before looking back at Jungkook, wondering, “Do I look like I just sucked you off in the garden?”

“Yeah,” Jungkook deadpans.

“Damn it,” Jimin curses.

“Jimin, I–”

Jimin puts a finger to his lips, shutting him up. “Listen, this was amazing, okay? But I gotta get back before they think I got murdered. Well, before I go back I’ll pay the bathroom a visit, but then I…” he trails off, realizing he’s rambling. “Either way, I have to go.” 

He fixes Jungkook’s tie, gives him a quick, heartless peck, and then he stalks off.

Jungkook can’t move at first. If Jimin hadn’t sucked his soul out, he would have followed him and demanded to fuck him right, or to buy him dinner, coffee, a whole mansion, but he stands there like an idiot, his cock rock-hard again because the way Jimin let him off was the second hottest thing Jungkook has ever been subjected to. Only the blowjob he just received exceeds it.

When he regains enough composure to realize he’s in public and someone could see him, he finally tries to fix his appearance. With wildly shaking hands, he zips his pants back up, wipes over his lips, and closes his suit jacket.

He takes a deep breath, ignoring the pounding in his temples.

In a trance, he walks back to the venue.

On the stairs, he almost misses Juri who waves at him hysterically.

“Jungkook-ssi, oh Goddess, I’ve been searching for you everywhere! There’s an emergency! We need to leave immediately!”

Jungkook comes to a stop, gawking at his assistant. “Hm?”

“There’s an emergency at work.” She cringes. “A real one. Not a fake one. We gotta leave. Dohyun is pulling the car around– Wait a damn second, why do you look like that? And why do you smell like–”

“I can’t leave just yet.” He has to get Jimin’s number. His shoe, even. A strand of his pretty hair. Something to remember him by. Something to make sure he was real. He needs to see him again. 

“Jungkook-ssi, I’ve been looking for you for forty minutes! You said you would wait at the bar!” Juri exclaims shrilly. “Michael messed up big time. Last year I said not to hire him and look at that: I was right!”

Slowly, Jungkook’s brain falls back into routine. Michael was handling a very important deal in the US. “What happened?”

Juri grabs his arm. “Let’s go– Actually, ew, I’m not gonna touch you.” She gives him a scolding look. “I really don’t know what in the Goddess’ name you were doing.”

Unwillingly, Jungkook trudges after her. He looks over his shoulder at the gala venue, mourning after Jimin.

This isn’t the end.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

“Would you get off the phone now?” Namjoon grumbles for the second time from across the table.

Jungkook holds up a hand, speaking into the phone. “Juri, I need that guest list. I know you have it.”

“And I sent it to you three days ago, sajang-nim. You know who was on it. There is no Jimin.”

“It has to be a mistake, I’ve been telling you!” Jungkook whines.

“What’s his problem again?” Yoongi questions Namjoon, looking bored by the delay Jungkook is causing. They’re supposed to be playing poker and drinking the expensive Scotch Yoongi brought. Jungkook spent three days convincing the alpha that they should open it on this occasion, but now he’s wasting time by obsessing over the omega from the charity gala.

“He’s trying to find this someone. I don’t even know,” Namjoon mutters, rolling his eyes. “He’s been obsessing over it for the whole week now. But he won’t give details. I’ve tried.”

“Has Seokjin hyung tried?”

“He’s in Croatia. He’s totally off grid. Locked his phone up to immerse in his role.”

“Hm, too bad.”

Jungkook flips his friends off silently. “Juri, I need it. It’s a matter of life and death–”

“You’re delusional. Byeeee.” She hangs up on him. 

“Cold-hearted,” Jungkook scoffs at the phone. “I could die. I am dying.”

Yoongi and Namjoon give him unimpressed looks. “Listen,” Yoongi says, gesturing at him. “I’m lowkey disturbed by the look in your eyes. Did you take Adderall again?"

“That was one time! And only because Juri told me they were vitamin pills!”

“So did you or did you not?” 

Jungkook groans, pulling at his hair. “Of course not. I’ve just been trying to find someone, but it turns out that someone fell from the face of the earth.”

“I know a guy,” Yoongi says ominously. 

“You know a lot of guys,” Namjoon comments, reaching for his scotch while shaking his head.

Namjoon is right. With Yoongi it’s always, I know a guy. There was that one time Seokjin had a stalker, complained about it in Yoongi’s presence, which made Yoongi go, want me to take care of it? A few days later the stalker was miraculously gone.

“He’s discreet. I just need a name. It will cost you a chunk, but that won’t hurt you, will it?” Yoongi gives him a callous grin.

“I’m good, thanks. I’m not a stalker.”

“Wait– this isn’t a work matter?” Yoongi figures, suddenly interested. “Because you’re totally a stalker when it is about work.”

Jungkook laughs incredulously. “No, I am literally not?!”

Namjoon and Yoongi share a not-so-subtle look. 

“Oh, fuck you,” he exclaims. “I’m not talking to you guys about this. It doesn’t matter anyway. I’m giving up.”

“You heard that, right?” Yoongi turns to Namjoon. “The Great Jungkook, who doesn’t know when to stop, said he’d give up.”

“Heard it loud and clear,” Namjoon acknowledges evilly. “This day will go down in history.”

Jungkook lets his face fall into his hands. “I hate everything.”

After resolving the work emergency, for which he had to take a plane to the US and stay there for two days, he came back with a mission: find Jimin, ask him on a date, eat him out to return the favor, and then ask him to get married. In that preferred order.

But Jimin is a ghost.

Juri got him the guest list of the charity gala, straight from the director herself. There was no one named Jimin on it. No one. Juri got him the list of employees from the gala too; every damn waitress and waiter, every bartender and every security detail. No Jimin.

Jungkook was convinced Jimin was someone famous, but it appears he was wrong about that. He spent the last days stalking Korea’s celebrities (where he learned way too much about current scandals and trendy Kpop dances) trying to find Jimin for nothing. 

He has no picture of Jimin. No surname. No information about his life. Nothing. 

But he knows what Jimin looks like on his knees and with Jungkook’s cock in his mouth. He knows what he smells like. How he smokes. That he supposedly stopped smoking seven years ago. That’s the most personal thing he knows. 

I quit smoking seven years ago. He racked his brain, attempting to draw something from that statement. Seven years ago—but why? What happened seven years ago that he quit? If Jungkook figures it out, maybe he’ll find him. 

Jungkook got wrecked that day. So thoroughly that he dreamed about that day three times already and now he’s out here reaching for straws. He’s a hopeless fool, but his friends are right: Jeon Jungkook doesn’t give up.

“Jungkook, we’re talking to you,” Namjoon says impatiently, snapping his fingers in front of Jungkook’s face. 

“You’re losing, bro,” Yoongi informs him, nodding at the table.

Jungkook looks down, snapping back to the present. “Fuck.”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

After two weeks, Seokjin returned from Croatia, stormed Jungkook’s house, and took Catherine with him. Jungkook got so used to her presence that the house feels lonely now. Too empty somehow.

Since then Jungkook has been all alone in his two-story house again, spending as little time as possible in his own four walls. Namjoon is in the states, staying with Megan, Yoongi is Goddess knows where, and Seokjin is busy wrapping up his current movie.

Autumn came and is now prevailing while winter is slowly creeping closer, knocking on Jungkook’s door. The days are getting shorter and Jungkook moodier. Work has been taking up even more time than usual (a self-chosen fate), giving him the option to blatantly ignore the void he feels daily.

Something inside him changed recently. Like some fucked-up, twisted, unneeded mid-life crisis which Cherry assured him was still two decades away. He’s thirty-four, entering a mid-life crisis at that age should be a scandal.

His mother’s attempts at setting him up on blind dates haven’t been helping.

Jungkook regrets ever trusting his mother with anything regarding his personal life. Ever since he turned thirty and didn’t show up at home with a mate and a grandchild, she’s been obsessing over mating him off. I’m finding you a mate, son. It can’t go on like this! At this rate you’ll enter your forties alone! I can’t die without seeing you happy!

Jungkook needs therapy. And a good fuck. But in that department he’s been…struggling.

The last one night stand a few weeks ago was a disaster so great, Jungkook wanted to shoot himself. The omega was gorgeous and they were in Italy. He had just wrapped up a deal and was in the mood for celebration. The air was still pleasantly warm, and the sun bathed everything in a golden light. Jungkook was into her. He really was. She was charming and beautiful, but she…she wasn’t right. She wasn’t blonde, she didn’t smell sweet, she didn’t ask him for a smoke, and her name wasn’t Jimin.

The realization that he was comparing a random hook-up to another (what didn’t feel like a completely random) hook-up, made him pause in his tracks, questioning himself. Somehow, Jimin left a mark on him. That brief encounter, the way Jimin disappeared without any further notice…

It dawned on him after that; he was ruined. Absolutely screwed. Cursed. Jimin must have been a witch because whatever spell he put on Jungkook, it’s not going away.

It’s been three months. Three agonizing months in which Jungkook hasn’t been able to get the omega out of his head. He had the chance to ask Jimin out and he fucked it up. He replayed their encounter over and over, analyzing it from every angle possible but the only conclusion he reached was that Jimin either lied about his name or he was someone’s plus one.

Work is the only distraction Jungkook has.

So he works.

After founding his company at twenty-five, right after he came up with technology used for surgery and bought the patent for it, he made money really quickly. Too quickly. He had no idea how to lead a business. But he was passionate about his creations and he wanted to make a change in the world. 

Nine years later, he has everything.

Except it feels like he can’t appreciate it properly. All that money, his loyal friends, his mother and sister… What is happening to him? Why is he unhappy? 

It feels hypocritical and wrong for him to lament like this. 

Juri’s knock on the door of his office interrupts his self-pitying thoughts. He runs a hand over his face and calls her in. 

She saunters inside, wearing her usual black pencil skirt, white blouse, and matching heels attire. “Your coffee,” she announces, placing a cup on his table. “Black with a tiny amount of milk. And the monthly reports. Marketing department was late again submitting it. You should fire the team leader.”

“It’s alright. I’m sure they were stressing,” Jungkook says emotionlessly, taking the files. “You can get going. I’ll stay at the office a bit longer today.”

“You’ve stayed longer everyday this month now, sajang-nim. Today I won’t leave until you do.”

“Juri, it’s nine pm on a Friday. Get the fuck home,” he says scoldingly. “You don’t have to sacrifice all of your time by playing babysitter for me.”

She purses her lips and puts her hands on her hips. “Forgive me for being blunt–”

“You’re forgiven.”

“–But I’ve noticed that your condition has been declining. I will book you an appointment with Dr. Lee tomorrow. Maybe you’re close to your rut.”

Jungkook pulls a face, leaning back in his chair with a whine. “Juri, why would you bring up my rut? I know we’re close but come on.”

“Don’t be a stuck up. It’s a perfectly normal topic,” she says matter-of-factly. “No need to be embarrassed. Check-up will be scheduled. No protest.”

“I’m totally fine. There’s no need–”

“I will tell your mother to stop scheduling blind dates if you agree on the check-up.”

Jungkook considers it. He holds her gaze. She smirks arrogantly, already aware that she won. “Fine,” Jungkook says, throwing his hands up in surrender. “You win; I’ll get a check up.”

“Amazing. It’s the right decision. While we’re on the topic, maybe you should stop drinking so much scotch when you meet up with Kim Namjoon and Min Yoo–”

“Out,” Jungkook orders, waving her away. “Get out of my sight.”

“I’m just saying! You have a lot of big things coming up and being in good health is detrimental for success, so…”

“I hate you.”

She tucks her red hair behind her ear. “Sajang-nim, you love me.”

“Shit, you’re right. I do. What would I be without you?”

She tilts her head to the side. “Helpless? Uncool? Boring?”

“Amen,” Jungkook says reverently. “And now get out of my office.”

“Just one last thing,” she says. “The annual Christmas party has to get planned. October just started, so we’re already late if we still want to hire someone good and find the right venue and all that..”

Jungkook sits up straight, remembering he has to think about what to get Seokjin as a gift this year. “Oh, I’m fucked.”

“I mean…I’ll take care of the administrative part. You just have to sign off on who I pick and on our budget. I wouldn’t say we’re fucked. I got a recommendation a few months ago for a talented event planner after that charity gala we went to. I’ll try to see if they’re available.”

Jungkook nods. “Yeah, sounds good. You know what to do.”

Juri gives him a thumbs up. “Okay, good night. I’ll send you a text with the details for the appointment.”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Running a really successful biomedical engineering company comes with sacrifices, responsibilities, and a lot of obstacles. But it also comes with achievements young Jungkook would have never dared dreaming about. Finalizing the deal with the investors in the US is what he needed to finally branch out more into the pharmaceutical part of his work field.

He no longer actively researches, but he started out that way. He was passionate about changing the medical field—about saving lives. When he was twenty-three, he had an idea. The idea became an obsession and then a prototype. Now it gets sold worldwide to all kinds of hospitals.

Jungkook grew up introverted and unsure of himself. He never knew what he wanted to do until tragedy struck him and suddenly life looked completely different. It’s funny how a single moment can change everything. Ironic, almost.

He's not superstitious, but his mother is. Some of that must have rubbed off on him because he sometimes does look at the moon and whispers a silent prayer.

Especially in the mornings when Juri lists off his schedule. “Morning meetings over Zoom with the Singapore office and then the chief physician from Germany. Lunch break with your mother—she insisted. During the afternoon, the marketing team will present their new strategy for the new product we’ll launch in four months. The legal team is done negotiating too. Yuna said you can expect the detailed report tomorrow morning on your desk.”

“Perfect,” Jungkook says, trying to sound excited. Another long day of work. Goddess, please help him get through this. But this is better than sitting at home, rotting away, subjected to his numb thoughts.

“Oh,” Juri mumbles. “Sorry, forgot one thing. I hired the event planner for the Christmas party I mentioned two days ago. I’ll introduce them at some point today.”

"For a second I thought you forgot something important,” Jungkook jokes. He needs a coffee. Something with three shots of espresso.

“It is! This is perhaps the most important thing on our plate right now. Do you want to lose employees to Tarkida?”

Jungkook scoffs at her. “Don’t ever say something so blasphemous again.”

She smiles complacently. “Just warning you of the inevitable if we don’t go all out. Everyone has been working their asses off this year. We deserve this.”

“What’s the budget for this thing that I have to sign off on?”

“Depends on the number the event planner tells me.” She smiles mischievously. “And of course on how much you love your employees.”

“Right, right,” Jungkook laughs curtly. “You want to bleed me dry.”

“It’s not your money.”

“I own this company, of course it is.”

“Don’t be a stingy old alpha,” she tsks.

“I get attacked all day here. Not a moment of peace…”

Juri taps her watch. “Two minutes until Singapore clocks in. I’ll have the intern bring in the TV.”

“You have interns do that now?”

“She’s my intern. I picked her. She’s going to leave this place being the second best assistant in this country.”

Jungkook smiles warmly. “Second best, that’s right. There can be no one better than you.”

“Damn right, boss.”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

The morning goes by dreadfully slow. Jungkook gets a headache from the two Zoom meetings even though they go fairly well. Ever since the doctor confirmed there was nothing wrong with him physically, he’s been back to blaming his lack of energy on his lackluster personal life. He’s got brilliant friends and a lovely family, but there is a hole in his life he only became aware of through a breathtaking, mind-blowing, life-changing blowjob. How idiotic is that?

Oh, and how did you realize you needed to change something in your life?

Me? Yeah, I got a blowjob and saw the light. Blowjob of Enlightenment, if so to speak.

Once lunch rolls around, he has Dohyun driving him to the hotel his mother picked out apparently. They never had big money problems in Jungkook’s childhood, but once he became wealthy his family of course followed suit. His mother retired from her insurance company job and his younger sister went off to an Ivy League college in the States, where she now lives as well, working at a fashion company.

Jungkook’s love language is gifts. Providing for his family feeds into that.

He meets his mother usually once a week. She’s an omega with a lot of hobbies. More than Jungkook can count at this point. She’s busier than him sometimes. Definitely more social too.

At the hotel lobby, Jungkook’s stomach roars. He should have eaten breakfast, but hitting the gym before work cut down his time. He only chugged down a thick, slimy protein shake.

“Is it okay if I take care of something while you eat with your mother, sajang-nim?” Dohyun asks carefully. The middle-aged alpha looks slightly stressed.

“Sure, do you need the day off? You have the company card, right? Get yourself lunch too.”

“No, no, just need to run an errand for my mate. It won’t take long."

“Alright. Just give me a call if you need the day off.”

Dohyun waves him off frantically. “No, you are too generous. I won’t need it, I assure you.”

“Well, the offer stands,” Jungkook insists. “I’ll head inside now.”

“Yes, sajang-nim. Have a great lunch with your mother.”

“Thank you, Dohyun-ssi.”

Jungkook heads inside, humming a song inside his head. He should make plans for the weekend with Seokjin. Maybe go on a short trip and enjoy some sun before the winter actually hits…

His mother is nowhere to be seen. He scans the lobby again, hoping to catch a glance of her brown hair, but she appears to be running late.

“Can I help you?” one of the concierge asks him.

“I was looking for my mother, but she seems to be late…” Jungkook gets his phone, searching for her contact. “I’ll just call her. Thank you for the help, though.”

The concierge nods and backs off. It’s not like his mother to be late. Except–

“Jungkook?”

It dawns on Jungkook then. The reason for her absence is because she never intended to show up. Suppressing a groan, Jungkook turns around to the unfamiliar voice.

The omega his mother set him up with is wearing a blue cocktail dress and a white Prada jacket. Her blue heels make her reach Jungkook’s jaw. “I’m Sooyoung,” she introduces herself, holding out her manicured hand. “It’s nice to finally meet you. I heard so much about you.”

Another blind date. Where in the Goddess’ name is his mother finding all these omegas?

"It’s…great to meet you,” Jungkook replies, shaking her hand. He can’t hide his surprise and Sooyoung notices.

“You had no idea you were meeting me,” she figures humorously.

“Frankly, no. I thought I was meeting my mother for lunch.”

“Well, I hope it’s not too much of a disappointment to eat with me instead.”

Jungkook takes her in for a second. He’ll only change something in his life if he actually takes chances. If he actively engages with the new people, things and experiences life throws at him, then perhaps he can make something of them. Well, his mother can take credit for this opportunity. “No, it’s a pleasant surprise. I’m famished.”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Jungkook returns from his lunch break with a stupid grin. When he gets back to the top floor where his office is located, Juri calls out to him from her desk that she'll be in with the event planner in a few minutes. In the meantime, Jungkook flops down on his armchair, relaxing while replaying the lunch date in his head.

Sooyoung was lovely. She works for an insurance company, and her father owns his own company too. Apparently her mother goes to Pilates with Jungkook’s mother, and that’s how they set up the blinddate. Sooyoung was a nice conversationalist and so time flew by quickly, leaving Jungkook with a pleasant feeling coursing through his veins. 

Without much hesitation, Jungkook suggested meeting again next week. Jungkook really needs to let himself indulge new possibilities. Change takes work, and perhaps he just needs to put some in. The past months, he figures, were miserable because his romantic fantasies are simply unrealistic. Like, he can’t just expect that the love of his life waltzes in unannounced–

“Sajang-nim,” Juri calls out brightly, pushing open his door. “Let me introduce Park Jimin to you!"

Jungkook looks up abruptly, torn from his thoughts. “Oh yeah, it’s—”

The moment his brain registers what it’s seeing, it comes to a very sudden and very unhelpful stop. Full on brakes. Nothing works anymore. Malfunctions everywhere.

Standing inside his office, wearing elegant white attire and holding a clipboard under his arm, is none other than the person who ruined Jungkook for three months straight. The ghost that Jungkook couldn’t find no matter how hard he tried.

The ghost wasn’t a ghost after all; he was apparently—if logic isn’t failing him right now, which is abso-fucking-lutely possible—the event planner. That’s why he wasn’t on any of the lists. How fucking ironic. 

Jimin looks as divine as Jungkook remembers. His expression is that of utter surprise for a split second too, but he catches himself quickly, breaking eye contact with Jungkook. A professional smile takes over his face, which must have been crafted by the Goddess herself, and he strides over to him in confident steps. “Park Jimin, it’s a pleasure to meet you, sajang-nim.”

“Jeon Jungkook,” he replies stoically, as if he and Jimin didn’t know each other, unable to take his eyes off the omega that nearly cost him his sanity.

Chapter Text

Moodboard by: @Jiminszephyr

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Certain moments in life feel too incomprehensible to be real. The time Jungkook founded his company, or the time he made the most lucrative business deal ever, or the time he bought a private jet or–

Or the time Jimin, the omega that bewitched Jungkook body and soul (he’s seen Pride & Prejudice with Seokjin and his sister, thank you very much), is standing in his office, shaking Jungkook’s hand.

This moment might really have to take the cake. Everything in Jungkook feels ignited. His cheeks seem to be burning, although he isn’t the type to feel shy. He doesn’t do embarrassment. He doesn’t– this isn’t how he usually reacts when an attractive omega is in front of him.

Jungkook holds onto Jimin’s hand for a heartbeat too long. He notices because Juri tilts her head, staring at their intertwined hands, and Jimin—Jimin lets out an awkward laugh.

The omega lets go with a strained smile, backing off a few steps. 

He smells subdued, like he did at the charity gala. He’s wearing scent blockers, Jungkook realizes. He must wear them often. Jungkook is almost tempted to ask if he’s wearing ones manufactured by his company. He’s also tempted to ask Jimin if he remembers him. If he still thinks about that day too. If not knowing anything about Jungkook drove him crazy too. He’s tempted to throw Juri out of his office and go down on his knees for Jimin to 1) repay the favor and 2) perhaps propose getting to know each other better (and marriage) to him. 

Juri claps her hands together. The beta didn’t notice the tension between them just now. “I’m so glad you are considering taking on this project, Jimin-ssi.”

“Ah, I’m really honored you reached out to me,” Jimin replies warmly.

“The annual Christmas party is a huge deal to our company. I have a spreadsheet that compiles all our–” Juri looks at her empty hands. “Uh, actually, it seems like I forgot it at my desk. That never happens to me. Give me a minute.” She sends Jungkook an apologetic look before hurrying out of the office. That really never happens to her. Perhaps she, too, was irrevocably bewitched by Jimin.

Jungkook is frozen. He only heard half of whatever Juri was saying. A lump has appeared in his throat. “Hi,” he says.

Jimin blinks. “Hello?”

“This– this is not how I thought we’d meet again.”

Jimin now looks visibly uncomfortable with Juri gone. His expression has gone from polite to outright…hostile? “When I got the offer the other day, I didn’t realize it was an attempt to chase after me.”

“What?”

“Jungkook-ssi, I’m sure you think this is funny, but it is not. I turned down another job for this one, unaware you were the CEO of this company. I need this job, but now I don’t think I can do it when I was just hired under the pretense of meeting me again.”

Jungkook gawks. “What are you talking about? I–"

Jimin bows slightly and turns around. “I'm going to excuse myself now–”

Jungkook catches his wrist mid-air. “Jimin-ssi, don’t go.” 

Jimin looks at him with two blazing eyes that bore into him. Jungkook lets go of his wrist immediately. “I assure you, Jimin-ssi, whatever you think of me is wrong. I had no idea my assistant hired you. None. I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable. I apologize.”

Jimin looks at him dubiously. “You…didn’t know?”

Jungkook cracks a smile. “You think I’m so immature to chase after an omega I had one encounter with by hiring him and thus creating a highly unethical and inappropriate situation? I’m not that dumb.”

“Alphas are dumb,” Jimin notes.

“Besides,” Jungkook adds, “I don’t have enough time on my hands to oversee every single thing that goes on in my company. The Christmas party is somewhat important, yes, but I usually do not get involved much. I sign off on the budget and that’s it. I don’t even actually go there if it can be avoided.”

Jimin considers him for a moment that feels like eternity. An eternity that has all the nerves inside Jungkook’s body firing off warnings. Jungkook swallows. He still hasn’t fully comprehended that Jimin is here. Here, as in here in his office. Here, as in he’s real, not just a figment of Jungkook’s imagination.

The omega slips back into his professional demeanor. “If you want me to take this job—and you do because I’m damn good at it—then the charity gala never gets brought up. You and I, we don’t know each other.”

“We don’t,” Jungkook agrees way too quickly.

Jimin sighs. “You know what I mean.”

“I think you might need to spell it out for me.”

"I’m leaving,” Jimin announces dryly.

“Wait, wait! I’m sorry, I got carried away. I promise I’m not like this usually. It’s just that–” No, he can’t say that. “I just really didn’t expect to ever see you again.”

Jimin gulps. “Well, me neither. I wouldn’t have taken this job if I had realized GoldenAegis Technologies was owned by you.”

“Let’s just start over. The past never happened,” Jungkook suggests diplomatically. “You said you need this job, right? Well, it’s yours. Juri already hired you. I won’t interfere. In fact, you probably won’t even see me again after this. All the communication goes through my assistant.”

“I…” Jimin looks conflicted. His brows knit together.

Everything inside Jungkook is tense. He fantasized about meeting Jimin, about somehow winning him over and fixing the way they parted the last time. He had all these grandiose ideas of what he could do. None of them included Jimin suddenly being unattainable.

What is Jungkook supposed to do? 

There is only one option here and it’s to asphyxiate all inappropriate thoughts and delusions Jungkook nurtured over the past three months where he bathed in self-pity. He has to see Jimin in a strictly professional light. 

Because Jungkook doesn’t do reckless. He doesn’t breach HR guidelines. He doesn’t get involved with people like this. Jimin signed a contract, so, for a limited time, he is Jungkook's employee.

“Okay,” Jimin breathes, finally. “I believe you.”

There’s no time to discuss more because Juri returns with the spreadsheet, bursting inside with a red head. “Found it! Sorry, it was somehow at the bottom of my files.” She tsks, shaking her head at herself.

Jungkook takes two steps back from Jimin. His hands feel clammy. His skin tingles. His heart is thumping. Flashbacks play in his mind of Jimin wooing him without actually trying and making Jungkook question his life in the middle of a garden. 

For real, what do you do when the omega you obsessed over for three months returns to your life? What do you do when there are clear boundaries you can’t cross?

Jungkook has no fucking idea. But one thing is clear: he’ll be suffering.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

It’s been two weeks and Jungkook met up with Yoongi for poker, had lunch with his mother, hit the gym twice as hard than usual, and had Seokjin come over with Catherine again to drop her off. The actor went back to Croatia for a week to redo a scene for his upcoming movie—something about a whirlwind romance between the owner of a hotel at a beautiful Croatian beach and a single parent on holiday with their kid at said hotel. Jungkook’s sister, Joohyun, already begged Jungkook to take her to the premiere of the movie to which Seokjin will probably invite them. 

In the meantime, Namjoon also called Jungkook in a frenzy and told him Seokjin got into yet another dating scandal while in Croatia. It made Jungkook sigh. He didn’t ask for details—he could just read those in the very detailed article Namjoon sent him a link to.

It’s also been two weeks since Jungkook has seen Jimin. He didn’t ask Juri for updates. Nor did he allow himself to go down any more delusional daydreams.

He banned the omega from his thoughts (semi-successfully). He accepted that the circumstances make any romantic approach impossible. Jungkook would never become unprofessional like that, especially after Jimin drew clear boundaries. 

So for the last two weeks, next to his rare social outings, Jungkook worked. Except, he also met up with Sooyoung again, this time for dinner at a rooftop bar he frequents every now and then. He supposes it could develop into something. Maybe. Perhaps. She’s a nice omega. Sweet and educated. Their conversations flowed well and Jungkook had a great time. He might meet her again this upcoming week if his and her schedule allow it. Somehow, Jungkook is glad she’s as busy as he is; she would have the necessary patience and understanding to endure Jungkook’s prolonged absences because he has to go on business trips and his workaholic tendencies are well-developed.

Then again, he doesn’t feel anything for her. No tingling, no butterflies. She’s nice, but that’s it. She’s available, and that is great, but Jungkook yearns for something more thrilling, perhaps. Something forbidden. Something that stirs his ambition and makes his heart jump.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

“So,” his mother says while piercing her fork through a piece of fish, “what are we getting your sister for Christmas?”

Today, their weekly lunch is taking place at his mother’s favorite fish restaurant. When Jungkook moved to Seoul for college, his mother came to visit him every few months and they always went to this small restaurant together, eating seafood. Sentimental memories fill his mind whenever he sits in one of the small booths and smells his mother’s perfume—which she never changed, even after Jungkook was able to give them a better lifestyle—and the characteristic smell of the restaurant.

Jungkook opens his mouth to answer his mother, but she interrupts him. “Before you say plants—we already got her that last year.”

“Did we?!” Jungkook says, exasperated.

“Yeah, two different ones. The rare ones, you remember? Had to import them from Goddess knows where.”

“Ah, right.”

“We need to get more creative,” she says with a shake of her head. “Your friend—the really famous one I keep seeing on TV—he sends me such mindful gifts every year!”

Jungkook has to give it to Seokjin when it comes to this. The omega knows how to pick the right gifts for people and he never forgets it either, nor will he let you forget how amazing he is at it.

“What about a trip or something,” Jungkook suggests. “Joohyun loves to travel.”

“A family trip!” his mother exclaims happily. “Son, a trip to Jeju around Christmas! We could also celebrate New Years there! Make your assistant—you know, that quick-witted beta—rent a house!”

Jungkook winces internally. He screwed himself over by bringing up this idea. “Eomma, that sounds lovely. I could arrange it for you and Joohyun, but…”

She deflates, her lips thinning out. “You have to work. What is it this time? You have to go to Singapore like last year? You have an emergency meeting with some investor?”

“No, it’s just–” As much as his mother supports him, she doesn’t understand how demanding this work is. How it never stops. How Christmas and birthdays and other holidays don’t exist in the world Jungkook works in. “I’ll try my best to be there, but I can probably only spare a day.”

This is a conversation they have multiple times a year. Jungkook tries to ignore the bitter taste in the back of his throat. The memories of holidays when he was a child and the world was good, light, and empty of responsibilities make his heart clench together painfully. 

“I understand. You carry a lot of burdens being President or whatever. Joohyun will probably want to stay in the US if you’re busy too. I’ll– I will manage alone. I can ask Mira and Hyunmi and–”

“Eomma, I’ll make time,” Jungkook sighs. “I just– I’m gonna get back to you on this. There’s still a lot of time until Christmas, so let’s not decide prematurely.”

“Don’t bother, son,” she says kindly. “You already take good care of me. I see you every week. What more can I ask of my son that works so hard? Then again, you haven’t been meeting with Sooyoung a lot either. We should skip our lunch next week so you can meet her. I told her mother you two would be a perfect match, but now she’s already asking me why there’s no progress.”

“We are meeting up. We’re taking it slow. She’s also busy–”

“Busy, busy, busy. For a decade, I’ve barely seen your or your sister’s face. Even when we meet up for lunch, you’re on the phone, talking in English, so I don’t understand you.”

“Eomma, it’s not like I don’t want to spend time with you–”

She doesn't let him finish. “But work is more important, yes. I remember when you were twenty and you told me you hated your father because he died and made us suffer. I knew then that you’d do everything to never end up in a similar situation. Look at you now, all grown up, working yourself to death–”

Jungkook stops listening. He leans back and closes his eyes, his knuckles turning white on the counter where his hands are balled to fists. 

There are some things, he figures, that his mom simply cannot let go. Sometimes, she says, it feels like they are no real family. That she’s the only one who cares about keeping some semblance of a family dynamic. 

Every few months she spirals like this and Jungkook shuts off. He had to listen to all kinds of accusations over the years, ranging from him being the reason his dad died and Joohyun left for the states to him being the only one who cares about his mother. 

But she isn't completely wrong about Jungkook. For a while, he did hate his father. He hated him for leaving—for dying. For making Jungkook the head of the family too young. For turning Jungkook into an ambition-eroded person and his mother into someone that blows up in his face, unable to control her emotions.

He should call Joohyun and tell her about this. He should text Sooyoung too and tell her that maybe they should stop meeting because he's not in the right place for a relationship. He should do a lot of things…

A text from Juri pops up on his screen. Work. Relief trickles into his veins.

“Eomma,” he says, rising up from his seat abruptly, cutting her rambling off. “I have to go.”

Her expression hardens. “Work?”

Shame crawls up Jungkook’s spine. “It’s important. I’ll see you next week, okay?”

She nods weakly and waves him off. 

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

“You’ve been in a foul mood since October started. Why?”

“I hate that you’re this perceptive,” Jungkook complains, letting out a sigh at Seokjin who gives him a I-notice-everything stare through the phone screen.

“So, what’s up?” Seokjin pushes, digging his fingertips deeper into Jungkook’s business.

“I could be asking the same thing, hyung. Namjoon hyung sent me a link to an article saying you were spotted with a fellow idol in Croatia. Some rapper idol. I thought you had to focus on the shoot?”

“Oh that,” Seokjin lets out a shrill laugh. “You bring that up to steer the conversation away from your foul mood? Not with me, Jungkook!"

“Namjoon hyung had to fly back from the states to deal with the aftermath. Sooo many emergency press meetings because of yet another dating scandal–”

“At least I have dating scandals.”

“Was that a blow in my direction?”

“Your mother called me. Eunjeong told me you are planning to work on Christmas?”

“I’m not planning to work on Christmas. I don’t choose to. It might just happen.”

“A family trip to Jeju sounds heavenly, why don’t we go?”

“We?”

“Eunjeong invited me, duh.”

“Hyung,” Jungkook whines.

“What about your company’s Christmas party? When is that happening again? Will you bail on that one too?”

“I don’t know,” Jungkook mutters, putting his head in his hands. “I’m probably not showing up anyway. I never do. Maybe to hold a speech, thanking everyone, and that’s it.”

Seokjin leans in close, showing him how appalled he is with Jungkook’s behavior. “You are incorrigible.”

“I’d ruin the mood. People walk on eggshells around me at the office,” Jungkook says as an excuse. “Besides, there’s a reason why I can’t show up.”

“What reason?” Seokjin wonders.

“It’s– Work,” Jungkook says instead of the truth. The shameful truth being the fact that Jimin would probably be at that party, overseeing everything like he did at the charity gala Jungkook figured in retrospect.

“Lame, Jungkook. Really lame.”

“Then I guess I am lame. There are worse things in life.”

“What about the ominous omega from a few months ago?”

Jungkook should have known Seokjin never forgets anything. He pauses, looking at Seokjin innocently. “What do you mean? What about them?”

“Your mother said you’re meeting someone. For a moment I thought it was the mysterious omega, but I don’t think you would be shutting up about it if that was the case. You only ever get talkative when you have a new obsession though, so I was re-considering…”

“No."

“No?! What is that supposed to mean? So who are you meeting then?”

“I’m someone my mother set me up with.”

“So all that drama in front of Yoongi and Namjoon was for nothing? You didn't find the mysterious omega?”

“I wasn’t searching for anyone.”

“Then I didn't suck face with that rapper either.”

“Hyung, do you even know his name?”

Seokjin looks caught, but he cocks his head to the side and hits Jungkook with, “No, I don't. So what? At least I don't bail on my family on Christmas.”

“Hyung,” Jungkook sighs. “You know it's not like that. Out of everyone, I thought you'd understand.”

Seokjin’s expression softens. He nods. “Okay, you're right. I'm not one to talk. After all, I don’t even talk to my dad anymore. Listen, Jungkook, I didn’t mean to–”

Jungkook isn't ready for a lecture. He loves Seokjin, but sometimes Jungkook feels like he has lost the ability to deal with big emotions. Seokjin tends to trigger them in him. “Hyung, I gotta go. Let's talk again later.”

“Don’t you hang up on me!” 

Jungkook ends the call. Perhaps his problem is running away from things and not being able to be honest. Yeah…the Goddess knows he has to work on that.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Compared to Jungkook’s plan that involved never seeing Jimin again, he begins seeing him way too often in the following week. It might be related to Juri inviting Jimin to the office, so they can talk over things in one of the conference rooms located on the same floor. So Jungkook catches glimpses of him, and they all burn themselves into his mind. 

The first sight he catches of Jimin is brief and shouldn’t do anything to him, but his breath still catches and he has ungodly memories swirling through his head.

Jimin occupies a lot of Juri’s time, which is why Jungkook goes to meetings, his business trip to Singapore, and any other formal work-related events alone. He’s beginning to feel lonely. And weirdly jealous. Of Jimin or Juri, he isn’t quite sure. Perhaps of both, because how can it be that he is still feeling all these inappropriate feelings of yearning for Jimin, and also these embarrassing feelings of abandonment towards Juri? Is he ten years old?

She is still doing her work perfectly, but she’s just gone a lot. Testing cakes, dishes, picking out flower arrangements, Christmas decor, the perfect tree… Jungkook’s beginning to wonder if they’re planning a wedding. But Juri has taken the Christmas party very seriously all four years she’s been with Jungkook, so he would feel like an ass if he ruined this for her by demanding her to tone down all the testing, trying, and picking.

Juri also doesn’t stop raving about Jimin, which is uncharacteristic of her. In four years, Jungkook never heard her be so head over heels for someone. In the car, or when she brings Jungkook reports, or when she calls him—Jimin’s name is always on her tongue. Jimin is so good at this, she will say. Jimin has such a clear vision. He’s a natural. He’s an artist. Sajang-nim, you just don’t understand! This party will be legendary! We need to hire him for the ten year anniversary of GAT next year!

Jimin this, Jimin that.

Jungkook feels like he’s being tortured. The two conversations he had with the omega—one of them ending in the most spectacular blow job he ever had and the other in a professional cock-blocking—did not reveal much about him. 

In fact, what does Jungkook really know? Virtually nothing. He’s fishing for straws. It makes him wonder if he’s projecting onto Jimin, if he’s really so desperate and lonely that he’s forcing feelings onto an omega that wants nothing to do with him outside of this professional arrangement. He’s miserable because he prioritizes work and neglects his family. He’s miserable because he’s meeting a beautiful omega every now and then, has lunch or dinner with her, but feels nothing. 

To get some time alone, Jungkook’s been driving himself to work. It’s quite time-consuming to not be able to respond to emails during his commute and having to do it throughout the day instead, but staring at the road and honking at bad drivers is weirdly satisfying and gives Jungkook the illusion of autonomy. He’s made it this far in his life, he’ll survive an unrequited, purely delusional crush too.

Unfortunately, said crush steps inside the elevator on the ground floor one day in a lilac-colored attire that robs Jungkook’s last breath. 

Consequently, Jungkook freezes. He goes all stiff, like a freaking stick-figure, his lips parted in awkward shock. 

Jimin freezes too. The elevator doors almost bump into him because he stopped on the threshold. 

Jungkook almost jumps forward to punch the damn thing because how dare it try to close when Jimin is still standing on the threshold?! But Jimin finally steps inside, clearing his throat. “Good morning, Jungkook-ssi.”

Jungkook has to gather his bearings first before he manages to reply. His gaze goes down, checking his outfit. He’s wearing a suit, because being CEO means wearing suits. But today’s suit is rather boring; a black one with a white dress shirt and black leather shoes. He could have done better. “Good morning, Jimin-ssi,” Jungkook finally says back, flashing Jimin a tense smile without showing teeth.

Silence falls over them. The ride up to the twentieth floor where Jungkook’s office is located—and where Jimin is apparently headed too—takes quite some time. Especially because all kinds of other employees step inside, mumbling polite greetings towards their CEO, before getting off on other floors again, stalling time. 

Over the first ten floors, Jimin gets pushed back closer and closer to Jungkook who’s hiding in one of the corners. Well, trying to.

A group of six people gets on at the eleventh floor, making loud conversation while Jungkook bites his tongue, trying to turn his body away from Jimin’s smaller one.

From this close, he can smell the omega. Again, his scent is subdued, but a faint whiff of sweetness reaches Jungkook’s nose, going straight to his head. He wants more of it, suddenly recalling the scent of Jimin’s slick. His mouth waters. He’s a primitive asshole, some voice of reason tells him.

Two more people get on at the twelfth floor and Jimin gets pushed back again, this time he bumps into Jungkook with his backside. 

Jungkook hears his breath hitch, as does his own. Awkwardly, Jimin attempts to scoot back or forward, but there simply isn’t enough room, and so their bodies stay pressed together and all professionalism Jungkook swore to keep dissipates. 

Jungkook prays to the Goddess above to put an end to this by looking at the ceiling, analyzing the dots in it. He should have Juri call the construction company and have them make bigger elevators. This is– this is not endurable.

Finally, on the fourteenth floor, all eight people get off, and Jungkook and Jimin are alone again, facing the consequences of their accidental proximity. They jump apart, Jungkook remaining in his corner of shame, while Jimin heads to the other one

Jungkook’s heartbeat is alarmingly fast, as his Apple Watch tells him. He should calm down, it says. His cheeks feel hot, and his mouth's as dry as the desert he saw on a business trip to the middle east last year. 

“Uhm,” he brings out, blinking at Jimin. 

Jimin says nothing. He does look pale, however. 

Jungkook might have to throw himself from the terrace at the top of the building next to the helicopter landing pad to erase this moment of awkwardness.

He gets saved by his phone, which starts to vibrate, indicating a call. He takes it without really looking at the screen. “Hello?” he says breathlessly, his eyes furtively glancing over to Jimin every two seconds.

“Jungkook-ssi?” Sooyoung says on the other end, sounding concerned. 

“Yes?”

“You sound… Are you okay?”

“Hm, yeah, completely fine,” Jungkook says with a fake chuckle. “Do I not seem okay?”

In the corner of his eye, he can tell Jimin is observing him too. They’ve reached the sixteenth floor by now. 

“I was calling to ask about dinner,” she says. “Are we still on for Sunday?"

“Sunday? Yes, Sunday,” Jungkook says, trying to recall making those plans with her. “I will make a reservation and pick you up.”

“Great, I’m looking forward to it. By the way–”

“I feel dizzy,” Jimin says suddenly, sounding hoarse.

Jungkook’s eyes widen and he drops his phone when Jimin’s eyes roll in the back of his head and his legs give out under him.

In slow motion, Jungkook watches him fall, leaping forward to somehow catch him. 

At the very last possible moment, he manages to sneak a hand underneath Jimin’s head, stopping it from hitting the hard floor. A relieved sound comes from Jungkook, followed by, “Oh my Goddess.”

It’s way too silent for a second, Jungkook staring at Jimin’s divine face that is completely relaxed. His plump lips are slightly parted and for a moment Jungkook isn’t sure if Jimin’s even breathing. But he can feel the faint echo of Jimin’s heartbeat, hovering so closely over him.

Jungkook’s heart does another pathetic stutter, followed by his Apple Watch sending some sort of warning again. It can join the alarm bells already going wild inside Jungkook’s brain. 

Finally, the elevator stops by the eighteenth floor, two floors below Jungkook’s office, and without thinking much, Jungkook picks Jimin up bridal style, running out with him, yelling, "HELP!”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

“You know this isn’t really necessary,” Jimin says with a sigh, sitting down on a chair reluctantly after waking up in Jungkook’s arms, completely disoriented. “I am fine, really.”

By the time help arrived in the form of employees working on this floor coming running over upon Jungkook’s frantic screaming, Jimin was awake again, wriggling out of Jungkook’s grip and apologizing profusely. 

Jungkook had none of it though and ordered—read: yelled desperately, embarrassing himself—for someone to call an ambulance, which Jimin was able to prevent by telling everyone he hadn’t eaten yet and the air inside the elevator had been so bad, he simply felt light-headed and his blood sugar dropped.

Jungkook felt a pinch to his heart, hoping that wasn’t a subtle jab at his scent stinking up the elevator. 

“You fainted in the elevator,” Jungkook reminds him. “I’m not going to let you work in that condition.”

“Almost. I almost fainted. There’s a difference.” Jimin frowns. “Besides, you’re not letting me do anything.”

“You were knocked out,” Jungkook stresses. “Also, I am. You’re my employee.”

“It might have appeared that way, but I can assure you, Jungkook-ssi, I was wide awake.”

Jungkook stares open-mouthed at Jimin. “It really did not seem that way.”

“I wouldn’t lie to you.”

The employees gawk at them and Jungkook realizes they were bickering in front of them. He rears back, although Jungkook knows Jimin was unconscious, but he caves nonetheless. “Then I’m– I apologize for carrying you out, Jimin-ssi."

Jimin shrugs. “It’s alright.”

“I–” He can’t stop looking at the omega, scared to miss any of the signs that could point to another dizzy spell. “I could have someone bring you some food,” Jungkook suggests eagerly. “You, bring some food.”

The employees that are standing around them have been eyeing Jungkook strangely ever since he demanded for them to bring sweets from their offices. He knows this will make rounds today; the reclusive CEO was seen carrying an unconscious omega through the building, oh my Goddess!

“That is very kind, but I’ll have to decline,” Jimin replies tightly. He crosses his arms over his chest. “Am I excused, sajang-nim?"

“Just do me a favor and wait until your blood sugar is normal again. You are still pale and your sc–” He stops himself, swallowing down the words he shouldn’t be saying. “I just don’t want my employees to think I don’t care about their health. Right?”

Jungkook looks at them pointedly. 

Said employees gawk at him and then nod quickly. “Oh yes, sajang-nim. We all know you care about us!”

“Oh Goddess, this is ridiculous,” Jimin mutters under his breath, suddenly grabbing Jungkook’s arm and tearing him away from the crowd. 

Startled, Jungkook stumbles after Jimin, looking at the spot on his bicep where Jimin’s tiny hand is squeezing it.

They make it around the corner and Jimin goes, “Jeez, why is your bicep so–” He stops abruptly, mouth slightly open.

“So like what?” Jungkook asks breathlessly. 

“Nothing, I just– Can I go now?”

“What?”

“You were making a fuss,” Jimin accuses. “I’m fine.”

“Like hell you are,” Jungkook retorts. “I can tell you’re not.”

“Then why do you refuse to get check-ups yourself?” Jimin blurts.

“What?” Jungkook blurts back, his thoughts coming to a stop.

With fluttering eyelashes, Jimin stutters, “Uhm, Juri mentioned something because of your workaholic tendencies. I– Sorry, I was out of line. I need– I should really go now.”

Gaping, Jungkook searches for the right rebuttal. Inside his head, a voice goes, Juri told Jimin I’m a workaholic! They talk about me!

“I’m not a workaholic–”

“Seriously, do you have to keep me here? Don’t you have a meeting or something? You always have meetings.” 

Jimin seems to have lost all his patience. Instead of challenging Jungkook with his witty remarks, he now just looks tired and desperate to get away.

Jungkook has seen many sides of Jimin during their short interactions; flirty, sexy, beautiful—well, he’s always beautiful—funny, smart, competitive, witty, eloquent…the list goes on like that, but he’s never seen Jimin so…exhausted. So worn out. As if being here is stealing his last strength.

Jungkook’s demeanor changes. He shifts on his feet. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to impose. I was just… You’re right, I have enough work to do. I’ll be on my way. But, please,” he reinforces, “take it easy today. Don’t sacrifice your health for some stupid party.”

“Stupid?” Jimin repeats blankly, throwing a glance at the employees that are still lingering around the corner, probably trying to listen to their conversation. This is so going to end up being the newest gossip.

Jungkook cringes. “That’s not what I meant. It’s not stupid, it’s just–”

“I appreciate your concern, really,” Jimin says, flashing a strained smile. “But I’m fine. Getting out of the elevator helped and the…” He looks at Jungkook, his gaze seemingly falling to Jungkook’s chest and arms. 

Is he staring?

“Thanks for carrying me out, although, I promise, that wasn’t necessary–”

“I’ll stay professional from now on,” Jungkook says with a nod.

“Yes, uhm, that would be appreciated,” Jimin retorts. “I– I will try to not faint in the elevator again.”

“So you do admit to fainting?”

Jimin’s eyes go wide. “No…”

Jungkook’s lips pull into a smirk. “I see,” he says in a low voice, his eyes scanning Jimin’s face. He stops himself from letting his eyes wander any lower, but his body still remembers the ghost of Jimin’s body in his arms, the weight of him and how he perfectly fit–

“Are you staring at me?!”

Jungkook sputters. “No.”

Jimin is about to retort something—probably an insult—when Jungkook, in an overly professional voice and followed by a polite bow, says, “I’ll see you around, Jimin-ssi.”

“Tomorrow.”

Jungkook halts. “Hm?”

“Tomorrow I’m giving you an update, remember? Juri called for it. She wants you to sign off on the budget that we put together.” 

He did not remember.

“Oh…right.” 

Great, a meeting where Jungkook won’t be able to focus on anything but the omega. He really couldn’t care less about the party—he only cares about the fact that after the Christmas party he and Jimin will part ways. That’ll bring relief. He’ll be able to close off this year and focus on the next. Perhaps branch out some more. Keep himself busy…

Jimin looks at Jungkook and almost sounds sincere. “Okay, thanks for…this. I mean it. And…have a great day.” 

Jungkook watches him walk away, going for the stairs instead of the elevator. He feels restless and anxious, worried about the omega’s health. Is he shaking? Was his complexion still pale? But Jimin disappears around the corner without fainting again, and Jungkook is left with his feelings of inadequacy.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Tomorrow—after a sleepless night that Jungkook spent rolling around in bed a million times—comes too quickly.

To Jungkook’s great dismay, Jimin is wearing pastel again today; a lovely shade of blue. He spotted him early in the morning, getting breakfast with Juri. He looked like a beacon of light in the middle of dark suits and blazers. Not a single speck of color in corporate purgatory, Seokjin would say. But Jimin’s got taste, of course he does, so he’s wearing color, drawing attention to him. He’s stylish, incredible at his job, and intelligent enough to stay clear of Jungkook. He probably knew Jungkook was no good the first time they talked to each other and Jungkook convinced him to smoke.

It doesn’t stop Jungkook from salivating at the sight of him though and then feeling embarrassed about it even if he’s sure no one else saw it.

Jungkook’s wearing scent blockers now. After the elevator incident yesterday, he put them on this morning, suddenly insecure. There’s also no way he’ll risk putting himself in a position where his scent could spike and reveal what he’s going through.

Jungkook and Juri are inside the conference room before everyone else—‘everyone’ being representatives of the caterer, the staff taking care of setting everything up, and Jimin.

Everyone is skittish around Jungkook, mainly because he usually doesn’t arrive first. But one of his meetings was called off last minute, so here he is, waiting for Jimin, nervously tapping his foot.

Juri eyes him strangely. “Did you drink too much coffee?”

“No,” he quips.

“You’re getting on my nerves, sajang-nim,” she says under her breath, giving him a nasty look.

“You’re fired,” Jungkook shoots back, a little louder than wanted.

The other employees’ heads go up, eyes widening and faces blanching, but Juri just snorts. “Sure. I’ll submit my resignation later.”

Before Jungkook can continue teasing her, Jimin finally makes an appearance.

The omega walks into the middle of the room, a clipboard under his arm and a small remote in his left hand. He walks confidently, knowing how to take up space and control an audience. 

(In his wildest dreams, Jungkook wants to worship the ground he walks on.)

Next to him, Juri slaps his arm. “Stop staring,” she whispers.

Jungkook snaps out of his trance. “I wasn’t, what are you talking about?”

“You totally were.”

“You’re fired, remember?”

“Since when do you care about such meetings, by the way? Last year you bailed on all of them for this party.”

“Well, I care now. Character development."

She throws him an unconvinced look. “Suuuure,” she says languidly. “You, a creature of habit who wakes up at 5:50AM everyday and rotates his ties every day of the week.”

Jungkook elbows her.

“Hello,” Jimin says at the same time in front of the whiteboard, “thank you for coming. Let’s get into it, shall we?”

Jungkook’s gaze falls on him and, for a split second, he imagines Jimin’s gaze lingers too.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Sooyoung texted him. She wants to reschedule Sunday and asks if he’s free today instead. Well, Jungkook has nothing going on. All his plans included moping around on his couch, watching overly romantic dramas, and working from home—there is always work to fill up his time

He shoots her a text, confirming he could pick her up in around two hours while he exits the elevator, breathing in the air of the underground parking lot. 

It’s quiet down here. Not a lot of cars are left as most employees have already finished work for today. 

Jungkook puts his hands in his pockets and walks to the usual parking spaces reserved for him. He always has one of his cars down here (an inconspicuous Sedan), just in case he wants to get the hell out of here and doesn’t want to bother Dohyun with it. But today he drove himself to work anyway, his black SUV coming into sight from afar, parked next to the Sedan.

Jungkook opens it, the car making a sound from unlocking.

Suddenly, a blonde head sticks out from behind the car, brows furrowed.

Jungkook freezes when he realizes who is walking down the road, clutching his bag to his chest.

Jimin is walking towards a car right next to Jungkook’s SUV.

What are the odds that Jimin parked right next to his car? What are the fucking odds? The Goddess really likes to play with Jungkook. If he walks to his car now, it will be awkward. Jimin will probably think Jungkook did it on purpose. This is what he gets for deciding to drive himself home today and giving Dohyun the last few days off.

He does the only right thing: he hides behind the nearest car, determined to not run into Jimin.

Through the window, he watches Jimin. The omega is walking slowly, carrying his bag with both hands. Usually, Jimin’s gait is characterized by smoothness and an elegance that seems inimitable. Something is off. Jungkook doesn’t know how he can tell, but he can. 

A second later, Jimin trips. He staggers, unable to regain his balance.

Jungkook sets off without another thought. Within seconds, he reaches the omega, catching him—it’s the second time in two days.

“Jimin,” Jungkook rasps, holding him up. His stomach is a pit, everything falling through it. Jimin feels fragile against him, seeming barely conscious. Jungkook manages to stabilize him against the hood of his car.

He captures the omega’s face and his mouth goes dry. Jimin’s cheeks are red while the rest of his face is as white as paper. He is burning up. “You’re still sick,” he states, feeling angry somehow. “You claimed it was blood sugar…”

Jimin tries to swat his hand away, but he is too out of it to really stop Jungkook. “I’m not… I just didn’t eat and– and– I–”

“Fuck, the same excuse from yesterday?”

“Why do you care–”

“I’m not letting you drive like this.”

With a pained expression, Jimin looks at him. His eyes are glassy, his brows pinched. “This is the fourth time or so that I humiliated myself in front of you.”

“What?” Jungkook blinks at him. If anything he humiliated himself in front of Jimin. Untamable concern and confusion swell in his chest. Being so close to Jimin, breathing in his distressed scent and touching him, is eliciting too many emotions inside Jungkook. 

“Why are you here?” Jimin mumbles, wiping a hand over his face. 

Jungkook gulps. “My car is next to yours.”

“Oh.” Then, “You can drive yourself?”

“Didn’t you see the plate that says reserved for CEO?”

“No, an obnoxiously big car is obscuring it.”

“You are not going home like this,” Jungkook says, trying to sound assertive. He feels assertive, but he doesn’t want to sound bossy. He doesn’t want to make Jimin uncomfortable. “At this rate, you’ll pass out driving.”

“It wasn’t so bad during the meeting. It’s the air down here. I don’t know what’s wrong with me,” Jimin mumbles defensively. “It’s probably you.”

“Me?”

“Nevermind,” Jimin sighs. 

Jungkook’s heart thumps in his chest. What does Jimin mean? Does he smell unappealing to Jimin? Even with the scent blockers?

“Is there…another way you can get home?”

Jimin lets out a curt laugh. “I guess I can take the bus.”

“You’re not getting in a stinky bus like this,” Jungkook blurts. “That’s it. I’m taking you home.”

Even though he’s only half-conscious, Jimin’s eyes go wide. “No, no, no that’s not necessary. I don’t need–”

Jungkook ignores him. He’s still holding him, so it’s not hard to guide him towards the passenger seat. Jimin doesn’t look happy, but he isn’t protesting anymore. Jungkook maneuvers him inside, fastening the seat belt immediately. Jimin’s scent, faint and distressed, invades Jungkook’s senses, setting off his own anxiety.

He looks around his car frantically for something edible. “I don’t really have anything to eat but–”

“Jungkook-ssi, it’s fine. I just need to sit for a minute. I could have done that on the ground too, but...”

There’s a moment of silence. He used honorifics again. Jungkook runs a hand through his hair. “I can call my driver. Or a taxi. I could–”

“You’re too nice to me,” Jimin interrupts. He looks up, his eyes shimmering. “Your reputation is basically that no one knows anything about you. But look at you; helping the omega in distress, even though I’ve been…cold to you.”

“Cold?” 

Jimin puts his face in his hands. “Give me five minutes and then I’m out of here and won’t waste your time any longer.”

Jungkook feels an urgency build in his chest that he can’t explain. “Jimin– I mean, Jimin-ssi, you’re not wasting my time. You’re sick.”

“Happens when your suppressants mess up your heat cycle,” he mutters, groaning. 

Jungkook is no omega, he doesn’t know what it’s like. He’s heard things from Seokjin and his sister, but he’d never pretend to be an expert. Still, he can have empathy. And he can show some basic ass decency for the shit omegas have to go through. “I’m sorry to hear that,” he mumbles.

“Great,” Jimn laughs emotionlessly. “Now I’m already oversharing.”

“Should I overshare too?”

That earns him a genuine laugh. “You surprise me, Jeon Jungkook.”

Jungkook can’t help it; he smirks. “Do I? Does that mean I can drive you home?”

“I’m not letting you drive me home. You’re probably busy.”

“I'm not. Nothing planned for today.”

“Do you have hobbies outside of work?”

“I go to the gym. Will you let me drive you home?”

Jimin is pale and clearly in pain, but he chuckles and says, “No.”

“Say yes.”

“I would feel bad,” Jimin sighs. “I can just call someone and–”

“Please,” Jungkook presses out. “Just let me do this for you.”

Jimin blinks at him, breathing in sharply. He whispers, “Fine. This one time.”

“Also,” Jungkook says, “would you stop using honorifics?”

“This is still a professional arrangement,” Jimin says, a tinge of humor audible, “so, no, sajang-nim.”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

The drive is silent. 

Jungkook doesn't know if he should turn on the AC or if Jimin is cold. He doesn't know if he should talk or turn on the radio. He doesn't know how to feel, but he can't stop himself from constantly glancing over, checking on Jimin. 

The omega is hugging himself, looking tired. He doesn't seem as pale as before, and Jungkook has figured his current condition is related to some sort of suppressant issue, meaning it probably comes and goes like the tides. Still, Jungkook worries. He worries, but there's no place for that worry. 

This is breaching a boundary and a part of Jungkook knows that, but he'd rather rot in hell before letting Jimin get home on his own while he's sick. 

Eventually, Jungkook turns on the radio, deciding it’s the safest choice. Jimin doesn't protest. In fact, he does nothing but look out of the window, sunken in his thoughts. 

Jungkook drives carefully. He's conscious about not hitting the brakes too hard or taking sharp turns. He's never felt so mindful of someone else's possible discomfort. It baffles him. 

The next moment, he feels ashamed. He had wanted to extinguish his feelings, but he can't. They only grow stronger whenever he's around Jimin. It's stupid; he doesn't even know Jimin. It's not too late for Jungkook to abandon his hopeless crush. He will, he tells himself. He will. After all, there’s Sooyoung. She could be the right person for him. It would be perfect if Jungkook felt more…

Jimin suddenly sits up, hand reaching for the touchscreen. “I love this song.”

“Huh?” Jungkook's throat feels like sandpaper. His cheeks feel hot. 

Jimin doesn't pay him any attention. He turns up the volume and starts humming along to it. Jungkook thinks he's heard the song before and never really cared about it, but suddenly it becomes meaningful; Jimin likes this song, his brain screams frantically, omega likes this song, and that means Jungkook needs to remember it. 

“It's really good,” Jimin says, smiling a little. “I listen to it on repeat these days. I love this band.”

“You do?” 

“Yeah, I'm the type to listen to the same song over and over,” Jimin reveals. “You aren't?”

“Me?” Jungkook is glad he has to look at the road because he wouldn't survive holding eye contact right now. 

“You don't have to–”

“I don't really listen to a lot of music,” Jungkook finally says, embarrassed. “There's not– I don't really get around to it. But…maybe I’ll check this band out.

He looks at the display again, trying to remember the name. Cigarettes after sex…noted.

“A pity,” Jimin says, leaning back. “I always have music playing. I need background noise. Like– constant stimulation. When I fold laundry, I need the TV on. I play music videos on it.”

That's how Jungkook finds out Jimin loves music. Jimin's habit is to play music all day long. He needs it. Jungkook knows about one of his needs. Jungkook–

“Ah, you can drop me off over there,” Jimin suggests, his tone having gone from excited to mild suddenly. “I can walk from there.”

“No, I can just take you straight to your–”

“It's fine, really. Please drop me off over there.”

Jungkook gulps, adhering to the request. He doesn't want to make Jimin uncomfortable. Slowly, he stops the car by the side of the road, glancing at Jimin. 

Quickly, Jungkook gets out of the car first, walking around to open the door for Jimin. He thinks about holding out one hand too, but decides against it, awkwardly hiding it behind his back instead.

Jimin is shaking his head as he climbs out of the car. “Thank you,” Jimin says, a rosy hue covering his cheeks. “Really. You didn’t have to do this, so…"

“It was nothing,” Jungkook dismisses. “Make sure to get some rest, yeah? Call in sick for work if you need to.”

Jimin huffs a breath. “I will. Rest, I mean. Calling in sick…probably not. Organizing stuff like this is more time consuming than you probably know. I mean, I have other jobs too.” 

“You have other employers?” Jungkook asks, feeling a pinch of…jealousy?

“I’m a freelancer. We dabble in a lot.”

“But… How much do I pay you?”

“You don’t know?”

“I guess we need to pay more if you have to take on more than one gig at once,” Jungkook says thoughtfully.

“Gig,” Jimin repeats with a laugh.

Meanwhile, Jungkook makes the plan to give Jimin a raise. He should give him a promotion.

(Like becoming Jungkook’s omega.)

When Jimin’s soft laughter ebbs away, he lingers for a second, his eyes sweeping over Jungkook. “Well, have a good night…Jungkook.”

Jungkook doesn’t know how to describe what hearing his name out of Jimin’s mouth casually does to him. It certainly reaches a part hidden very deep inside of him; something primal and unknown to him. “You too, Jimin,” he says deeply.

“I–"

“Jimin?” A deep voice, unfamiliar to Jungkook, sounds from the left. 

Jungkook turns around, seeing an alpha stand there. He’s tall, undeniably handsome, and also frowning at none other than Jungkook. He’s wearing a pair of framed glasses on the bridge of his nose and a leather jacket that matches the dark brown colour of his tousled hair. He waltzes towards them, never leaving Jungkook out of his sight. 

The silent posturing between alphas isn’t unknown to Jungkook. Well, he’s never really partaken in it, since he’s avoided committed relationships all his life. In his youth, when he was a quote on quote Loser (yes, capital L), he was the one that had to make room for the popular alphas in the hallways of his highschool to avoid getting slammed against lockers. His distaste for their lack of decency, etiquette, and awareness runs deep.

Jimin doesn’t seem surprised to see the alpha, however. “Hey, Taehyung,” he says soberly. “Were you waiting?”

“Is this alpha bothering you?” the alpha, Taehyung, asks. From up close, he looks less…hostile. There’s something softer about his features than expected. 

“Jeon Jungkook,” Jungkook says automatically, holding out one hand. “I work with Jimin.”

Taehyung’s brows shoot up. “You’re the–”

“Jungkook- ssi,” Jimin stresses, “was so nice to drive me home. My, um, my car broke down,” he lies. 

Jungkook notices two things directly; Jimin used honorifics again and he lied to this alpha for whatever reason. Well, Jungkook assumes omegas feel compelled to lie about their heat problems. Society conditioned them like that. Jungkook also doesn’t walk around announcing his rut schedule to the public, although he knows there’d be less scrutiny since he is an alpha. 

Then, there’s also a third thing: Taehyung seems to have recognized him by name. He eyes him curiously, but then turns to Jimin again.

“Your car broke down?” Taehyung repeats, looking instantly worried.

“Just the battery, probably,” Jimin dismisses. “Anyway, I’ll deal with it tomorrow. Can you, uhm…”

Taehyung’s gaze returns to Jungkook for some reason while he speaks to Jimin. “Okay, I’ll head back up then.” He nods at the closest apartment complex. Jungkook assumes that’s where Jimin lives. “I was just taking out the trash. See you in a second.”

“Yes, I’ll be right there!” The attempt of a cheerful smile flashes over Jimin’s face, but he fails miserably, watching the alpha walk away. When he looks at Jungkook again there is something embarrassed in his gaze. “Sorry, I…I have to go now.”

“Oh, sure,” Jungkook says, nodding. 

“You’re probably wondering why I lied, hm?”

“Not my place to meddle,” Jungkook answers with a shrug. Or to wonder why an alpha is in your home. “I’ll get going now. Again, make sure to rest and thank you for letting me drive you home.”

“I should be the one thanking you…”

“No, you don’t have to.”

“I owe you now, hm?” Jimin wonders with a soft chuckle.

“You don’t owe me anything. Is that the kind of alpha you take me for?”

“Honestly, I don’t know what kind of alpha you are...” He tilts his head to the side, assessing Jungkook silently. 

Jungkook’s face feels hot. He’s been assessed, analyzed, and dissected by others—especially omegas—often, but somehow, when Jimin does it, he feels unraveled. Disassembled, somehow. As if Jimin could look beneath that layer of suit, success, and self-confidence and see the yearning Jungkook was throttled by these past months. 

Finally, Jimin seems to snap out of it. He blinks, clearing his throat. “Okay, goodbye then. I– Thanks again.”

He doesn’t wait for Jungkook’s answer. In quick steps, he hurries away, walking in the direction Taehyung went earlier. Jungkook can’t help but look after him, worrying about his condition and also—foolishly so—if Taehyung is something like a boyfriend. Or more than that? Goddess, who knows. 

Jungkook recalls his own words: not my place to meddle. Indeed, not his place. There’s a clear line between them and Jungkook can’t cross it. He already did so by dropping the honorifics and taking Jimin home.

Letting out a defeated sigh, Jungkook heads back to his car. He runs a hand through his hair, disentangling some of the slicked back strands. He gets inside and looks at himself in the rearview mirror. He looks hardened and cold; his face is a constellation of sharp lines and edges with dark eyes to contrast yet also amplify this image. He’s wearing a suit tailored to fit him perfectly. Of course he looks hostile. Threatening. Like a damn asshole. Like someone that prioritizes work and has no other joys in life.

Slowly, his eyes drift over to the passenger seat where Jimin sat just a few moments ago. Unexpectedly, his eyes widen and his lips part; Jimin forgot his jacket. 

Jungkook grabs it, one hand already on the door again to get out and take the jacket back.  Then he realizes he doesn’t know where exactly Jimin lives. There are a few apartment complexes here and Jungkook won’t walk around like a creep trying to find the right one. He doesn’t have Jimin’s number either. In fact, the only thing he has is good will.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

In today’s briefing, Jungkook was so distracted, one of the employees presenting their research politely asked him if he was feeling under the weather and if they should take a break. Jungkook admits he doesn’t always pay full attention during meetings, but he never daydreams all ninety minutes like he did today.

It was related to a certain someone whose jacket is still in Jungkook’s car, waiting to be returned.

He made the not-so-very elaborate plan to drive to the street where he dropped Jimin off and…wait for him there. Or maybe to check out the apartment complex that alpha pointed at, hoping he can just maybe leave the jacket by the mail or something.

Or he follows Plan A: waiting like a creep.

Maybe he shouldn’t?

But if he keeps the jacket he’ll also look like a creep. And if he asks Juri to hand Jimin the jacket, Juri will ask why Jungkook is in possession of the omega’s jacket. And if he–

There’s no nonchalant option here. 

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

A few hours later, it is four pm and Jungkook finds himself at the street he dropped Jimin off.

He knows Jimin should be on his way home—he told Juri so, after all.

Jungkook taps his fingers against the steering wheel, feeling incredibly restless and anxious. What is he doing, Goddess? If Seokjin knew how absolutely pathetic he is behaving right now…

He thinks about the interactions he had with the omega. The conversation at the charity gala which felt like they were two blocks of butter melting together in a pot, becoming one and the same thing. He recalls the way his heart leaped, how it bloomed, how it opened up and made him feel less miserable. Then he recalls seeing Jimin again, realizing it was all an illusion and he acted like a lovesick puppy. 

Well.

He opens his car door, gulping down his nerves. He will just return the jacket. He will walk to the apartment and check if he–

“Juwon, get away from that car!”

Jungkook recognizes the voice instantly, turning around like it was his name that was just shouted.

Jimin is carrying grocery bags over his right shoulder and he seems to be running after something. Well, someone.

A pup, perhaps around six-years-old, is trying to climb up Jungkook’s SUV. The boy’s foot is on Jungkook’s tire and his hands are splayed out on the front as he’s trying to pull himself up unsuccessfully. He groans in frustration, his plump cheeks red from exertion. 

“Juwon,” Jimin says sharply, tugging the pup down by his shirt. “I know you like to climb, but we do not climb cars!”

Jimin is flushed and his hair is slightly tousled. He looks stressed. Stressed but, as always, ethereal. Jungkook’s heart flutters against his will.

Meanwhile, Jungkook feels like a statue. Marmor, granite, iron—all those immovable things that stand around and command attention.

“But why?!” the pup whines.

“Cars weren’t made to be climbed. They’re for driving,” Jimin explains with a sigh. “Also, this one doesn’t belong to us. If you damage it, you have to take accountability. Cars like this—they are really expensive. I know someone who drives a similar one. Actually, this kinda looks exactly like…” Jimin’s gaze drifts over and his eyes widen comically. 

“Uh,” Jungkook says very intelligently. He holds up Jimin’s jacket as if it was a peace offering.

“Jungkook,” Jimin breathes, mouth hanging wide open. 

“I could come back…?” Jungkook says awkwardly. “If it’s bad timing.”

“You brought my jacket,” Jimin prompts. 

Jungkook’s throat feels like someone fed him barbed wire. “You, um, you left it and I thought you might miss it.”

“That’s so…thoughtful.”

“Yeah, uhm.” He doesn’t come closer, unsure what to do. Has he always been this awkward? His reputation says something else, but apparently the Goddess wants Jungkook to fall into an identity crisis. He’s suddenly in high school again, president of the science club, and the jocks try to scam him into doing their homework.

“Sorry,” Jimin says, his voice husky. “About the, uhm, about the car. He didn’t damage it or anything.”

At that moment, the pup squeezes between Jimin's legs on all fours. Jungkook and Jimin look down at the same time, seeing the big grin on the pup’s face.

"Hi," Jungkook says, looking at the young pup with big eyes. "I didn’t realize you were babysitting." 

The pup grins, big teeth revealing itself. "Who are you?" 

Jimin, however, smiles apologetically at Jungkook. "I'm– I'm not babysitting." He softly touches the kid's head, whispering. “This is silly, Juwon. The ground is dirty.”

It dawns on Jungkook then. And it feels horrible—that feeling of having mistaken something, of being so embarrassingly wrong that it makes your skin crawl. He swallows stones down his throat, taking a step back from Jimin. He’s still holding the jacket. "You have a pup," he comments, trying to sound casual. 

Jimin inclines his head. "Yes. His name is Juwon. He just turned seven. I…yeah, I don’t bring him up at work. Not because I want to hide anything. It’s just…”

And Jungkook is…work.

"Oh, yeah, I suppose there just wasn't a moment to bring him up," Jungkook says, nodding excessively. He feels pain working its way up his chest. How much more do you want to humiliate yourself, Jungkook?

"You're not mad, are you?" the omega wonders. 

Jungkook splutters. "Mad? Why– why would I be mad?" 

"Because I forgot the jacket and made you come all the way here. You could have just given it to Juri or something." He tilts his head to the side, pouting. 

Jungkook might die. “Oh, I was…in the area.” Sure, Jungkook.

“You were in the area?” 

“Yes, uhm. I have a friend that lives close by. Just five minutes from here.”

Jimin nods in consideration. “It’s a nice area.”

“Is this car yours?” the pup—still between Jimin’s legs—asks.

“Oh, yeah,” Jungkook says. He takes a step closer, tucking in his shoulders so he doesn’t look intimidating. A strange alpha approaching a pup—yeah no. “Do you…do you want to–” His gaze goes to Jimin, realizing he should ask his permission first.

“He already left a scratch on Taehyung’s car,” Jimin says, “so it would perhaps be better to not let him do this.”

Jungkook blinks. “Right. Yes. Uhm.”

“Juwon, I can take you rock climbing tomorrow,” Jimin tells his son—his pup—softly. “We have to go up now, I need to put the groceries away.”

Juwon lets out a loud groan and his shoulders slump theatrically. His big ears are slightly red—probably because it’s getting colder and colder outside. Jungkook finds himself staring at the pup’s face, spotting Jimin’s features in them. He can’t help but wonder if Taehyung is his alpha father? 

“Thank you for returning my jacket,” Jimin says to Jungkook, which makes the alpha tear his eyes off the pouting pup. “And I’m still sorry for last time.”

“You’ve got nothing to be sorry for,” Jungkook whispers, staring at Jimin’s face now. He looks as beautiful as ever, the wind tugging softly at his blonde hair.

“We… I have to make dinner now.”

“Right,” Jungkook nods. “And I…” have to wallow in shame. “I have to run to a meeting now. Work, haha.”

“Drive safely,” Jimin says, taking Juwon’s hand. 

“You too,” Jungkook answers automatically. 

Jimin gives him a blank stare. Juwon lets out a giggle.

“I mean– Get home safely,” Jungkook corrects, letting out a dry chuckle. He scratches the back of his head, gulping down his embarrassment. “I’ll see you around. Jimin…ssi” 

Jimin watches after him for a moment as Jungkook heads back to his car, gets inside, starts the engine, and drives off with screeching tires. 

Chapter Text

Moodboard by @Jiminszephyr

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

03.11.24, 10:23AM, posted by @Tehee23yolo

So…idk if there are any other GAT employees on here, but I just need to vent somewhere and my friends and fam don’t really understand how fucking insane this is ughhhggg they’d just call ME insane.

Basically, to start this off, i need to highlight how fucking reclusive our CEO is and how COLD and UNAPPROACHABLE he is, okay?! His name is Jeon Jungkook (look him up and you’ll understand why the fuck im going crazy over this rn) and he’s only 34 so he’s like this hot and single alpha that (in my head) could get any omega he wants but it’s widely known at the company that he doesnt date. Like how tf?! Have u seen what he looks like? I’ve run into him a couple of times on the elevator and in the cafeteria and he always greets back, but he has this stoic expression and never really says anything. Makes me question myself bec he has no business being such an alpha-hole while also being the hottest guy ever.

Anyway, I need to get this off my chest bec I refuse to believe what I witnessed the other day at the company was the same tsundere alpha that has been my boss’s boss’s boss for the past 3 years. Buckle in for this insanity fellow GAT employers and JJK knowers:

I was just chilling, doing work at my desk when I hear yelling. Like– screams for help. So me and my coworkers run out and guess WHAT

Yup, youve guessed right Jeon Jungkook comes running out an elevator with an OMEGA in his arms, carrying them BRIDAL STYLE– like PAUSE and REPLAY bec HUHHHH. anyway, I come running and try to grasp the fucking situation with my coworkers because we’re all like?? then Jeon Jungkook screams at us to call an ambulance bec JIMIN (random omega’s name apparently) fainted, but then the omega wakes up and gets all defensive,,, like girlie pop if this was me, I’d be getting real comfortable in his arms, but you do you…

We didn’t call an ambulance before anyone asks. Jimin (idk what department he works in…we have a ton of Jimins at the company but non looked like him when I checked on our website) was able to stop him and then they started bickering and my face just went o.O the entire time because i've never heard our CEO talk that much outside of scripted speeches. It was enlightening because he had this slightly whiny tone going on, trying to make sure the omega is alright. In the end, the omega dragged him around the corner and me and my coworkers were left in SHAMBLES, looking at each other well aware that this would be our favorite matter of discussion for the next 5 years!!

That brings me to my dilemma: do you think he’s dating this omega? It didn’t look like it tbh, but, like, I could tell (I have a radar for this) that Jeon Jungkook was into him. Like,,, im talking about being DOWN BAD. ugh. I thought the I’m-cold-and-dont-talk was a good look on him, but the concerned I’d-do-anything-for-you look…holy moly, the goddess took her time crafting this alpha. he was sent to this wretched earth as her apology for all the other half-witted alpha-holes that taint this world

anyway, thks for listening to my ted-talk. If there are any GAT employees here, lmk what u think. any other readers: should I try to get more updates on this??? 

ps: posted this on company time bec I’m not getting paid enough ffs

23.987 likes   1033 shares   789 comments

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@Shelli_Shanks: GIRL i work at GAT- why have I not heard about this?!

@BionicFlamen: nah cuz I just looked him up…holy goddess, he’s foiiineee

@nevermindminji: I don’t work at that company but I’m so intrigued?? this is giving kdrama and I need to know the rest of the plot

@monstera22: girliepop…ur lowkey insane for airing out his business like that…like touch some grass

---@Shelli_Shanks: pff, as a GAT worker, Iam living for this tea 

----@TeeHee23yolo: thanks! I haven’t been able to sleep since I witnessed this shit

@moonlit_jimin: my name being Jimin and just having looked up Jeon Jungkook,,, im gonna pretend it was me in that story u just told hehe

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

“Oppa,” Joohyun whines when Jungkook picks up her call at the crack of dawn.

“Hm,” he grunts, barely awake.

“You can’t tell eomma you’ll bail on Christmas—that means all the responsibility is on me to make sure she won’t have a nervous breakdown again,” Joohyun says, her tone urgent and slightly childish. 

Jungkook puts his free hand over his eyes, the other one holding his phone. It’s cold inside his bedroom, the beginnings of winter seemingly having creeped through the walls.

“Are you listening?!” 

“It’s barely five am,” Jungkook clips. 

“I know. Don’t you usually get up at this time?” Joohyun wonders ignorantly. 

Jungkook lets out a dry laugh. “You’ve got to be kidding me.”

“Come on,” Joohyun pushes. 

“What?”

“You can’t bail on Christmas.”

Jungkook suppresses a groan. He can’t deal with his sister this early in the morning. He loves her. He really does. She had a hard time growing up, being stuck at home alone with their mother, who was in no condition to really raise kids after their father died. Jungkook was gone, working next to high school to make some money to keep the family afloat. He wasn’t there when his mother broke out in crying fits and Joohyun, barely a teenager, had to console her.

He left—not by choice directly, but he left.

And the shame still eats him up some days.

“Why does everyone keep saying this,” Jungkook groans, rubbing over his tired eyes. He barely got three hours of sleep this night and he's sure he won’t get any more after this call.

“So eomma exaggerated?” 

“Yes,” Jungkook sighs. “I bet she did.”

“Should I come home?” Joohyun asks, her tone solemn suddenly.

“No, you stay where you are. I know you’re working hard.”

“I’m close to a promotion, oppa,” she whispers.

Joohyun always had to hold back when she was younger. Feelings, dreams, aspirations—there was no place for any when their family’s fate was on the fence. Once Jungkook made some money, he made sure to put it all into his family. Into his sister’s dreams. 

“That is amazing. I knew you’d do it,” he says genuinely, his frustration over her lack of consideration for his sleep fading away. 

“Are you proud?”

“Very. You know I am.”

“Thank you, oppa. I’ll call eomma again. I think I’ll come home in the middle of December and leave after New Years. I saved all my vacation days for this.”

“Do you want me to pick you up?” Jungkook asks. 

“Oppa,” she chides, “I’m not two years old. I don’t need my older brother to go all alpha mode and pick me up in his unethical private jet.”

“You want to fly economy?”

“Yes, gladly. I like it.”

“Hm,” he hums, thinking about how to change her mind. “I liked you better when you still let me spoil you and acted cute. Remember the pigtails–”

She screeches in his ear, almost shattering his ear drums. “Shut up!”

A smile spreads on Jungkook’s face. If there’s anything the alpha loves, it’s teasing his little sister. “Don’t ever call me at the crack of dawn again or I’ll have to find the pictures and–”

“I hate you!” she yells, angrily hanging up and sending him middle finger emojis afterward.

With a smirk, Jungkook replies with a thumbs up. This threat always works.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

There’s something like a crisis meeting a few days later between Namjoon, Yoongi and Jungkook. As usual, the topic of the conversation is Seokjin.

“He’s driving me crazy,” Namjoon says with despair, tearing at his hair. “I swear, he does this to spite me.”

“Hm,” Yoongi hums, looking at his cards.

“Hm,” Jungkook copies, also looking at his cards.

“Does he want me to die early?” Namjoon whines.

Yoongi raises a brow, head tilted to the side as he considers this. He comes to the conclusion, “Probably.”

“Probably,” Jungkook agrees, nodding.

“You guys are heartless. Help an alpha out, man!”

“You knew what you were getting into when you offered to sign him,” Jungkook points out. “It’s not like I didn’t warn you when he took me to the contract meeting.”

“He thinks you’re his lawyer, cat-sitter, and therapist,” Namjoon mutters. 

“I don’t mind.”

“And accessory,” Yoongi adds. “He loves showing Jungkook off at parties.”

“A good looking accessory,” Jungkook says with a smirk.

A part of him likes feeling useful. Not that he thinks Seokjin is using him—it’s probably the other way around. He’s the one who clings to Seokjin, needing his lightheartedness and freedom with which he lives his life. The omega was a remedy to Jungkook when he was young, bitter, and had no joy.

“Also, about the lawyer thing. The real lawyer is here,” Yoongi laments belatedly, shaking his head in utter disbelief as he complains about the matter he brings up every time when Seokjin becomes the topic of conversation at their regular meetings. 

“You guys dated in the past. Of course he’d be petty enough to pretend you’re not a real lawyer afterwards,” Jungkook sighs.

He doesn’t like thinking back to the time when Seokjin and Yoongi were a thing. It’s hard to call it an actual relationship because it was the most tumultuous and emotionally demanding relationship Jungkook ever witnessed. It felt like he was the one having the relationship. It lasted almost a year and gave not only Jungkook but also Yoongi a gray hair (note: only one gray hair!) while Seokjin still pretends it wasn’t a huge deal.

To this day, Jungkook has no idea why they broke up, only that it was for the better. Now they’re somewhat friends, and Yoongi offers to help Seokjin out (like he did with the stalker-situation), but Seokjin is a free spirit and always all over the place.

“Maybe I should ask Megan to talk to him,” Namjoon theorizes now. He’s been absent-minded throughout the entire game, meaning Yoongi and Jungkook's chances at winning are way higher than usual. 

Jungkook is determined to win this time, his competitiveness triggered, but he can’t pin his hopes too high. Recently, he learned they never really get fulfilled. Not outside of work, that is. Does he need to resign himself to this fate? Is work the only area in life where he’ll find full satisfaction?

“Seokjin hyung is incorrigible,” Jungkook says with a shrug. “Don’t try changing him.”

“I’m not. I just wish he’d tell me beforehand if he plans to get into a scandal. The paparazzi are basically glued to his ass by now. I have to train his managers and assistants to escape from them when they drive him around. I feel like I’m starring in the Fast & Furious series.”

Yoongi reveals his deck. He won. Jungkook curses under his breath. Yoongi leans back arrogantly, smirking. “You idiots owe me a Rolex now. At a casino I would have just made a fortune.”

Jungkook lets out a scoff. “You already have a fortune.

“I’m at a table with billionaires,” Yoongi says pettily, “you guys could donate a dime for me.

Namjoon only says, “If Seokjin were here he would have won.”

Across the table, Yoongi and Jungkook make eye contact, both alphas rolling their eyes.

“Don’t you roll your eyes at me!” Namjoon exclaims, pointing his finger at Jungkook only.

“Why are you only pointing at me, hyung? He’s also rolling his eyes!” Jungkook protests, outraged at Namjoon blatantly ignoring Yoongi. 

“But he’s not a pup,” Namjoon retorts

“I’m barely four years younger!”

“Barely,” Yoongi parrots, mocking Jungkook.

“Megan asked me if she should play matchmaker for you,” Namjoon reveals unprompted. “Oh, wait, when did you win?!” he exclaims right after, only now noticing that he lost the game.

“For me?!” Jungkook points at himself, somehow shocked even Namjoon and his wife, who is perhaps the busiest alpha among them due to her life as a rapper, noticed his lack of romantic relationships.

“Well, clearly not for me,” Yoongi says with a smile. 

“What is that supposed to mean?”

“He’s dating,” Namjoon says, now rolling his eyes too. 

Jungkook throws his friend a shocked look. “Who? Since when? Why did I not know about this? Why is everyone dating suddenly?” And even more importantly, “Why didn’t Seokjin hyung tell me you’re dating someone else?!"

“I’m also surprised he hasn’t brought it up yet,” Yoongi agrees. “I always keep things undercover, but he always knows.”

“Well, who are you dating?”

“I choose to remain silent,” Yoongi says mysteriously.

“Hyung, do you know who?” Jungkook questions Namjoon.

“Nope, but I’ve been pestering him for a week now. I haven’t known for long. Well, it was because he changed his status to dating on Facebook.”

Jungkook grimaces at his friend’s boomer behavior. “You’ve got to be kidding me.”

Meanwhile, Yoongi looks proud of himself. “Subtle but effective."

“I’m actually disgusted right now,” Jungkook says in disappointment.

“How about you, huh? Are you dating or still fucking around?” Yoongi challenges, kicking Jungkook under the table.

“Ouch,” Jungkook says apathetically, the kick having not hurt at all.

“Yeah, tell me so I can tell Megan if she should arrange a date or not next time you’re in the states,” Namjoon chimes in, leaning forward. 

“I don’t need a date,” Jungkook mutters.

Suddenly both alphas stare at him, overly interested.

“Remember in summer when he was freaking out after this one charity party?” Yoongi says with furrowed brows.

“Hm, Director Kang’s gala,” Namjoon agrees, an equally analytical look on his face. “I’ve been wondering what that had been about.”

“Guys,” Jungkook tries to interject.

Yoongi breathes in. “Do you think he met the love of his life at the gala and tried to find them afterwards because they vanished?”

“That’s so Cinderella-like, I love it.”

“Do you think he found them?” Yoongi says now. “I should call my contact at your company and ask them.”

“Are you talking about Juri?” Namjoon wonders.

“No. She’s too loyal. I have other sources.”

Jungkook blanches. He rarely blanches.

“What’s up with that face?” Namjoon inquires critically.

“Hypothetically speaking, what if the love of my life doesn’t want me?” Jungkook croaks out.

“Well, then they aren’t the love of your life.”

“And what if they have a pup?”

“A pup?” Yoongi repeats. He looks at Namjoon with his left brow raised. “Is he trolling with us?”

“Sounds like it,” Namjoon agrees annoyedly.

Jungkook lets out a laugh, trying to cover his tracks. “You’re right. I was just messing with you guys.”

Namjoon’s expression turns thoughtful. “I mean, since we’re speaking hypothetically… I think you’d be a great dad. You’re responsible when you’re not playing Poker and you have a stable income. You take care of the people around you. You’re selfless… The list goes on.” He shrugs when he finishes, earning a hum from Yoongi in support and then returns to the cards lying on the table, “So, new round?”

Jungkook’s eyes sting. He didn’t realize he needed to hear this. “Yeah, hyung, let’s play another. I promise I'll let you win.”

“Pff, I win anyway,” Namjoon laughs. ”Well, because Seokjin isn’t here.”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Jungkook’s new favorite thing to do is listen to music. Instead of just cursing at the traffic, he lets Dohyun drive him to and from work again so he can relax on the back seat, headphones in, listening to Cigarettes After Sex. Especially You’re All I Want—the song Jimin hummed along to when Jungkook was driving him home the other day.

Juri has already clocked his new hobby, after having caught him blasting the songs in his office late at night while pulling somewhat of a night shift. Instead of judging him, she asked if she should buy concert tickets and arrange a meeting. Jungkook has no idea how she’d manage that, only that she would. Jungkook has no desire to meet the band though. The only desire he has is to know more about Jimin. 

He’s been ruminating a lot, creating a puzzle out of Jimin that he wants to solve. 

Well, there is one thing Jungkook remembers as he stands on his balcony at midnight, his breath visible in the cold air, a cigarette between his fingers.

I stopped smoking seven years ago.

Jungkook now knows why.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Jungkook doesn’t look up from his pile of files when someone bursts into his office on a rare sunny morning.

“Juri,” he says automatically, thinking it's the beta, because no one else comes inside his office unannounced, “I think we’re missing the–”

“Jungkook.”

Startled, Jungkook drops the file, his head snapping up. A second later, a scent drifts over—distress. “Jim– Jimin-ssi?!” 

The lack of honorifics has Jungkook almost more shocked than Jimin actually being inside his office.

After not having seen Jimin for a week or so, it feels like Jungkook’s inner workings startle awake, his heart thumping like Jimin is the first crush he ever had.

Pale as the wall, Jimin stands in the door, barely over the threshold, looking embarrassed to the core. “I’m about to go into a meeting,” Jimin says breathlessly, “with the– the damn caterers. But I’m– I need a minute. My head is killing me.”

Jungkook is a tree; his roots have trapped him at his fucking desk.

“I– Can I sit down here for a second? I don’t want anyone to see and your office is the only damn room I know in this unnecessarily huge building. I couldn’t find a bathroom. Not even an empty conference room, Goddess.”

Jungkook nods, open-mouthed.

“I’m going to the Omegaologist tomorrow before you scold me,” Jimin sighs, stepping inside. “This is like freaking heatpause.”

“H-heatpause?”

“I had complications during Juwon’s birth. The stress, they said. Well, fuck the stress.”

Jungkook still hasn’t recovered from the very sight of Jimin. He hasn’t comprehended that Jimin is here, seeking solace in his office. As his mind works overtime, he finally manages to abruptly stand up and circle his desk, weak on his feet like a newborn duckling.

He gulps, unsure if he can approach Jimin. He doesn’t look as bad as he did a few days ago when he was fainting in the elevator and in the parking lot, but his cheeks are rosy, and his lips pale. He blinks innocently at Jungkook, clearly trying to not make this situation even more awkward.

“I...have a couch,” Jungkook gets out, pointing at his worn out couch. “Over there.”

“Thanks,” Jimin mumbles, taking a first step into its direction. He sways, however, seeming to fight with his balance.

Jungkook’s instincts take over; a moment later, he’s at Jimin’s side, lifting Jimin up, ignoring his squeal, and carrying him over to the leather couch that was a low-effort gift from Namjoon. He had wanted to throw it out, but Jungkook offered to take it. It then became his birthday present. For someone who writes songs for his wife as gifts, he really is bad at any other sort of present.

Jimin is huffing and puffing. “You really–” 

“I can’t let you faint in my office. You’d probably hit your head on the floor, crack it open, and then I’d get sued and I’d have to call someone to clean up the brain goo.”

“Sued by who?” Jimin whispers, his hand clawing Jungkook’s shirt.

“I don’t know,” Jungkook mutters, “Juri?”

“Juri?”

“She loves you,” Jungkook says, letting Jimin down gently. 

The omega sinks into the couch, getting swallowed by it. “Why did I think this couch was unsed…”

“It belonged to a friend of mine first. He owns a music company, so this stood in one of his studios. A lot of people sat on it.”

“A music company?” Jimin breathes, and Jungkook remembers he loves music. 

“Yes,” Jungkook says, “Indigo Records.”

“No way!”

“Yes way!”

“So, Doha is signed with him!” Jimin exclaims excitedly, holding on to his head a second later, wincing.

“What do you need?” Jungkook asks worriedly, voice thinning out. 

Jimin shakes his head. “It comes and goes… I’ll be okay in a bit. I just didn’t want anyone else to see. So I– I came here and inconvenienced you…again. I’m sorry.”

“Did someone see you?”

“I made sure to be extra quiet. I don’t want any rumors to spread.”

Jungkook snorts. “Do I embarrass you, Jimin?”

“Why would you? We don’t know each other.”

“We don’t? Why do I know then that you like to smoke every now and then?” And the way your lips feel on mine and around my cock.

Jimin’s cheeks grow redder. “Others would call this tone of yours flirtatious.”

“It was a perfectly normal question. If you had said that I was pestering an unwell omega… I wouldn’t have protested, but…” 

Jimin lets out a soft chuckle. “Taehyung said you look like you have no humor. I will have to correct him.”

“You talk about me?”

His brain goes: he talks about me, he talks about me, he talks about me–

“He’s my best friend,” Jimin says in a small voice, “so yeah.”

“Your best friend?”

Best friend. Not boyfriend. Best-fucking-friend. 

“Yeah, for almost like a decade already. We met fresh out of high school.” Jimin looks nostalgic for a moment, apparently reminiscing about their time together.

“And he–” Jungkook clears his throat. “He lives with you?”

Jimin throws him a weird look. “No, he just has keys to my place. He has all kinds of jobs, so he often travels around and crashes at my place while also babysitting Juwon, but he’s– Ugh, why am I telling you all this? I swear to the Goddess, I’m usually not so talkative. I’m like talking your ears off, holy Goddess–”

“What else did you tell Taehyung about me?” His voice comes out raspy.

To Jungkook’s utter surprise, Jimin’s cheeks turn a light shade of pink. He looks away, avoiding Jungkook’s gaze. 

“He knew me,” Jungkook reinforces, the corner of his lips tugging up. He’s enjoying this immensely. “So it made me wonder what you told him...”

Jimin meets his gaze, the shyness gone. “Yes, I talked about you. The alpha I met at a charity gala I organized as one of my first huge gigs, whom I then irresponsibly sucked off in the venue’s garden and then thought I’d never see again.”

The direct words have Jungkook raising his brows. “Has someone told you before that you’re quite shameless?"

“My mother,” Jimin says right away. “Taehyung. And a few other people. Got me in trouble when I was younger.”

Jungkook stifles a laugh. Taehyung might not be Jimin’s boyfriend, but he’s an alpha close to Jimin, and Jungkook’s annoying irrational side is jealous. He’s acting like some primitive bastard, clinging to hierarchical structures that were abolished centuries ago. Still, he wants to court the omega sitting on the couch in front of him, who makes it look like a luxury item and not some worn out piece of cheap fake leather.

“He’s skeptical. He said you’d probably ask me out,” Jimin says now. His eyes have darkened slightly. “But look at you being completely uninterested in me while I’m inconveniencing myself over and over. You even took me home and brought me my jacket.”

“Chivalry isn’t dead, as I told you,” Jungkook answers with a slight smirk.

Unfortunately, Jimin also couldn’t be more wrong. Jungkook’s biggest foe in life is other people always misinterpreting his actions. He’d date him in a heartbeat.

Jimin shakes his head incredulously at himself. “I thought– Well, then I heard you have a girlfriend.”

Jungkook blinks. “I have what?”

“The omega you are going out with…?” Jimin says confusedly. “Juri said something about you going on dates."

He means Sooyoung. He thinks Sooyoung is his girlfriend?! 

Sooyoung whom he hasn’t talked to in…how long?

Sooyoung whom he forgot about.

Fuck. He’s a horrible person. 

“Oh.”

“Then I figured you’re just…extremely nice,” Jimin says with a thoughtful nod of his head. “Yeah. You’re letting me crash in your office and didn’t complain once about getting interrupted. I should tell the tabloids so they’ll call you ‘Most elusive but kindest Bachelor’ in their next edition.”

“Please don’t,” Jungkook laments, “I’ll be overrun by omegas throwing themselves at me. It’s already unbearable.”

“Cocky,” Jimin notes.

“I’m young, rich, and successful. Of course I’m cocky.”

“The first part is debatable.”

Jungkook pretends to be insulted. He presses a hand over his heart. “Ouch. So you think I’m old?”

“Well, how old are you?”

“Wanna guess?”

“Over thirty,” Jimin says, lips in a slight pout as he drags his eyes down Jungkook’s body. “No twenty-something-year-old carries himself this way.”

“What way?” Jungkook’s voice drops an octave.

Jimin seems to swallow, his eyelashes fluttering. He tries to explain himself. “In…a very self-assured way.”

Jungkook can’t help the little smirk that sneaks onto his face. “You think I’m self-assured?”

“I think this is getting to your head.”

“I never said it wasn’t.” He dips his head to the right. “So, tell me, what makes me look self-assured?

Jimin looks away, shaking his head in disbelief and not answering the question. 

“You haven’t guessed my age yet,” Jungkook points out. 

“I say thirty-two.”

Jungkook’s smirk deepens. “Thirty-four.

“Damn,” Jimin blurts.

“Damn?”

Jimin lets out an embarrassed laugh, covering his mouth with his hand. “I don’t know why I just said that. I’m in a weird–” He stops suddenly, his face pulled into a grimace as his hand flies to his lower stomach. The sour scent of distress fills the air. Jimin’s blockers are slowly wearing off, letting more and more of his pheromones spill out.

They make Jungkook woozy. His expression turns solemn again. “How do you feel? Any better? I should have given you some water…”

“Alphas,” Jimin sighs, “such worrywarts.” 

Jungkook looks around his office. All he has is coffee. Why does he only have coffee?! He should buy a mini fridge and store more drinks in his office in case Jimin comes by again…

“Do you want some coffee?” he asks anyway, sounding helpless.

Jimin’s lips part, but before he can speak, his phone starts to ring. He seems to snap out of it, hastily reaching for his phone. “Hello?” he breathes down the line. “Oh, Tae– No, I’m at work, why?” Jungkook watches closely how Jimin’s face falls. “What?”

“What’s wrong?” Jungkook wonders, brows pinching together.

“Oh Goddess,” Jimin whispers, standing up abruptly, one hand on his head. “Did you go to the hospital yet? Tae! You need to take this seriously– Who cares that you can’t pick Juwon up? I’ll just do it. No, it doesn’t matter that I’m at work–”

Jungkook hears hospital and his stomach begins to drop. 

“Stop making excuses and stop apologizing,” Jimin says vehemently. “I’ll hang up now and I better not see you until you get it checked out!” Angrily, Jimin hangs up, pressing the screen with his pointer finger like a boomer.

“Is everything okay?” Jungkook dares to ask.

“Yeah,” he says, giving Jungkook a strained smile. 

“It did not sound like that, omega,” Jungkook says gently. 

Jimin breathes in shakily. He blinks quickly, looking away to hide the tears in his eyes. “Taehyung is an idiot. He apparently hurt his ankle and can’t really walk. It means he can’t pick Juwon up from school because he obviously can’t drive like that. I would do it, but that means I have to cancel the meeting with the caterers now who are already here. It’s not a big problem, but it will throw my schedule out of order and I’ll have to rearrange a million things and maybe they’ll cancel because canceling on such short notice is unprofessional… Fuck, sorry, I shouldn’t be telling you all this. Goddess, look at me hindering you from doing your work, crying in your office like some–”

“At what time does he need to be picked up?”

“At 12:30,” Jimin says. “I often have to work, so he’s either with Taehyung or with Hoseok—he’s another friend of mine—on some afternoons. But he’s a lawyer so he works a lot. Well, if my mom is in town, she’ll also help, but…”

Jungkook doesn’t know what prompts him to open his mouth and say, “I could pick him up.”

Jimin doesn’t hear him. “I’m such a bad parent. I thought things had gotten better and I’d finally have everything under control– What did you just say?”

“I could pick him up and watch him until you’re free.”

Baffled, Jimin stares at him. “Sorry?”

“It’s– I have no meetings this afternoon.” He does, but he’ll get Juri to cancel them. No biggie. “I also watch Seokjin’s cat all the time. It’s not comparable to a pup, but I’ve been told I’m good with kids. Also, you don’t know who Seokjin is and I mean it’s irrelevant, but he’s lowkey famous–”

“Would you really?”

“Yes, I’m telling you, Jimin.” For you, I’d do probably everything but you don’t know it. You think I have a girlfriend.

Jimin’s eyes shine and his lips part slightly. He doesn’t call Jungkook out on the missing honorific.

From the lack of response, Jungkook figures Jimin thinks him to be insane. “Well,” he rears back, “I can also play CEO and tell Juri the caterers need to–”

“You’ll need a car seat,” Jimin cuts in. “And a lot of patience.”

“I could buy a car seat, but patience is–”

“Okay, I need to call the school.” Jimin jumps into action, his fragile condition apparently forgotten. He grabs Jungkook’s hand and pulls him out of the office. 

Baffled, Jungkook tags along, his body erupting in goosebumps. He fishes his phone from his pocket, shooting Juri a quick text to clear his afternoon schedule. She replies with a bunch of questions and exclamation marks.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

He feels all kinds of wrong, inadequate and misplaced when he pulls up to Juwon’s elementary school, pretending he didn’t see Juri’s 284737191 texts and calls asking where the hell he is.

The school is swarming with little pups waiting for their parents to pick them up. Jungkook parks his SUV, now equipped with a car seat in the back and Jimin’s phone number in his contacts. He stared at it for five minutes after Jimin entered it hastily, told him to text once he picked Juwon up, and then ran back up in time for his meeting with the caterers, leaving Jungkook to his own (severely lacking) devices.

His chest tightens as his anxiety rises. Why did he agree to do this again? What if he can’t even find Juwon? What if he does something wrong and disappoints Jimin so gravely that all the progress they made today gets flushed down the drain?

There are a few things he needs to correct—like the girlfriend thing—but all in time. First, he will prove himself today by successfully babysitting.

He takes a deep breath and gets out of the car. The car seat in the back has him pausing momentarily, staring at it in awe. Maybe he should buy one too. He could keep it in the trunk, just in case Jimin needs him to do this again…

The parking lot is full of cars and people, mostly parents. Some of them throw Jungkook weird looks as he strides towards the school. He tries to not concern himself with it, but it inevitably widens the pit in his stomach. He stuffs his hands in his pockets, channeling every ounce of nonchalance he has.

Jimin said Juwon would be waiting at the entrance and a teacher should be present. Jimin called the school to let them know someone else would come to pick Juwon up. Everything is fine.

Except Jungkook can’t see Juwon.

He sees the entrance, a bunch of other pups with heavy backpacks that are as big as their little bodies, and a tall omega that looks like she could be the teacher, but no Juwon. Jungkook is confident he’d recognize him. 

Awkwardly, he slows down, scanning the area to see if Juwon is perhaps somewhere else on the perimeter. He’s seen the pup only once and hopes Juwon won’t be taken aback by a stranger picking him up instead of Taehyung who must be something like an uncle to Juwon or whatever. Honestly, why does Jungkook even care?

“Can I help you?” the tall omega asks, sounding a little hostile. Jungkook can’t fault her; he’s an unfamiliar alpha lurking around a school full of pups.

“Uh, yeah, I’m here to pick up Juwon,” he says. “Park Juwon. I– I think his father called the school to let you know that I’d be coming to pick him up. My name is Jeon Jungkook. I can show you my ID if you don’t believe me–”

She lets out a laugh. “That won’t be necessary. I did talk to Jimin.” Her gaze sweeps over him—over the suit, the sunglasses, the obvious lack of parental experience. “Well, Juwon is over there. He’s a little grumpy today because we took a surprise test and he didn't do so well. I put an evaluation in his folder for his father to look at.”

Jungkook follows her hand with his eyes and swallows when he realizes where Juwon is. The pup is sitting on a tree, looking down at them. He looks way too comfortable up there for Jungkook's liking. 

“Uhm,” Jungkook says. “Will he get down on his own?”

“Juwon!” the teacher exclaims loudly. “Come down! You’re getting picked up!”

Juwon has definitely spotted Jungkook. He squints, his little face all scrunched together. His big ears poke out of his hair. Jungkook would coo if Juwon wasn’t a few meters above ground and could literally fall to his death. It would definitely not help Jungkook’s case if he died on his watch.

The teacher doesn’t seem worried in the slightest. She gives Juwon an impatient look and taps her foot. “I won’t say it twice.”

Juwon seems to groan before he finally gets moving. With agility, he climbs down the tree in under a minute. Jungkook watches with his mouth wide open how the pup makes calculated steps, knowing exactly where to put his hands and feet and what branch to reach for. He’s done this countless times. Did Jungkook climb trees when he was young? He needs to ask his mother. 

Back on the ground, Juwon trudges over to a bench, picks up his backpack and heads towards them. He comes to a halt in front of Jungkook, staying suspiciously silent. 

“Hi, Juwon,” Jungkook says softly, leaning forward. “Remember me? I’m a friend of your dad’s and he–”

“Can we get going?” Juwon cuts in, looking straight at Jungkook with his round eyes. “I’m hungry.”

The teacher shakes her head. “l’ll see you tomorrow, Juwon. Don’t forget homework, okay?”

Homework? Seven-year-olds have to do homework? Did Jungkook have to do homework back then? He can barely remember anything before he turned twenty.

“Hm,” Juwon grumbles, turning around. Wordlessly, he begins aiming for the parking lot

Jungkook panics. “Uh, okay, bye!” he quickly rambles to the teacher before running after Jimin’s pup.

“Hey, hey, hey,” Jungkook says breathily, reaching Juwon. “Wrong way. My car is over there.”

Juwon eyes him angrily. “Okay.” He turns around and walks in the direction Jungkook pointed.

“I’m so screwed,” Jungkook mumbles to himself, looking after Juwon, who seems determined to get away from school as quickly as possible. 

At the car, Juwon waits patiently for Jungkook to open it and doesn’t try to climb it like he did last time. Like a pro, Juwon climbs into the seat though and even fastens the seatbelt on his own. Jungkook watches, stunned by how autonomous Juwon is. Are all seven-year-olds like that?

“I can take your backpack,” he says to the pup. “Can put it in the trunk.”

“No, it can stay here.” 

There’s a moment of silence in which Jungkook considers what Jimin would do now. Would he insist on putting it in the trunk? Or would he let Juwon have his way? 

Jungkook isn’t Jimin though. He’s not Juwon’s parent. In fact, he’s nothing to the pup but some stranger that picked him up after he had a bad day at school. He must be the last person Juwon wants to see. 

“Okay,” Jungkook agrees. “Then it stays there. That’s fine.” He won’t get into an argument with a pup. 

Juwon’s eyes shine triumphantly. 

“Can I check if your seatbelt is safe?” 

Juwon shrugs. “Okay. I always do it myself. I'm a master at it.”

Frankly, Jungkook has no idea what the fuck he’s doing but better be safe than sorry. He leans over Juwon, checking if everything looks secure. Juwon smells milky like pups usually do and faintly of what must be Jimin’s scent; something sweet like cherries, like vanilla, like honey. Underneath that, Jungkook registers another scent—probably Juwon’s own scent developing. 

It’s already obvious to Jungkook that Juwon will present as an alpha. He can tell not only by the scent but also by the way Juwon carries himself. 

“Looks good. You did a good job,” Jungkook praises softly.

Juwon doesn’t look too impressed. “I guess.”

“So, you said you’re hungry, right? Why don’t we go somewhere and I’ll buy you something to eat?”

Now Juwon looks confused. “We’re not going home?” 

“Uh, no. Your appa has a work appointment he had to take care of, so I offered to look after you for a few hours. Is that okay? I hope that’s okay for you. I know we’ve only met, like, once. I can always call your appa if you want to talk to him–”

“Can we get pizza?”

Jungkook halts. “Pizza? Oh, yes, sure.” What is the best pizza place he knows? Which restaurant has the best environment for a child? 

Juwon smiles for the first time. “Cool. Can we listen to something on the way?"

“Like the radio?” 

“No, like Go Pack . Appa always puts it on while we drive. I can’t watch something because I get car sick.”

“You get car sick?” Jungkook’s voice is a little more high-pitched than normally. 

Juwon shrugs. “Only sometimes.”

“If you feel sick, you have to tell me immediately. I’ll pull over.”

“Okay. Will you put on Go Pack now?”

Jungkook debates calling Jimin because he has no idea what Juwon is talking about. Against better belief, he says, “Yeah, give me a second, buddy.”

Juwon nods triumphantly, leaning back in his car seat. 

Jungkook closes the door and walks around the car, getting onto the driver’s seat. Quickly, he shoots Jimin a text, letting him know he has Juwon. Afterwards, his fingers immediately go towards the screen in the middle. There has to be something on here. 

“Juwon, what was it called again?” he wonders, running a hand over his face.

“Go Pack!” he repeats, sounding impatient.

Jungkook pulls out his phone. Alright, where can he stream whatever this is? A quick search reveals it’s about a pack of wolves and their pack life. Thankfully, it’s available on some audiobook streaming app, so Jungkook promptly downloads it. “Give me a second, Juwon. I’m setting it up.”

“How long?”

“Until it’s set up?”

“Until we can eat pizza. The food appa packed was meh. I didn’t eat it.”

Jungkook looks at the backseat. “You’ve not eaten a single thing today?”

“No.” The pup shakes his head. 

That makes Jungkook feel even more pressured to make sure everything is perfect. He buys a subscription on the streaming app without batting an eye, connects his phone to the bluetooth of his car, and puts on the first episode of the audiobook Juwon requested.

The theme song starts playing and Juwon shyly begins singing along. Jungkook looks at him, spotting the red ears. It’s kind of cute how Juwon can’t hold himself back. Apparently he likes music just as much as Jimin.

So far, so good. Jungkook mentally pats himself on the shoulder. He made it this far, now he just has to decide on a good pizza place. 

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

By the time they reach the restaurant, Jungkook has the theme song of Juwon’s show stuck in his head. The pup’s mood has lifted a little. He was quiet the majority of the drive, listening to the audiobook attentively. Jungkook drove slower and more carefully than ever before, terrified of something happening under his watch. Traffic is dangerous. And all those other drivers apparently won their license in the lottery. He felt the urge to honk and yell at all of them for not being more mindful of him, but then he realized he was being ridiculous and…perhaps a little overprotective.

Still, he thanks the Goddess when he pulls into the parking lot entrance where a valet is waiting. He rolls his windows down. 

“Oh,” the valet says, recognizing Jungkook. “We weren’t expecting you, sajang-nim. I– Uh– Do you want me to–”

Jungkook turns the engine off and gets out of his seat. He hands the keys over to the valet. “One second.” He walks around, opening the door to get to Juwon. “Do you need help unbuckling–”

“No.” He’s already unbuckled. “Can I leave my backpack?”

“Yeah, sure.” 

Juwon grins, jumping out of the car. He barely reaches Jungkook’s middle. Something about that triggers Jungkook’s protectiveness again. 

“You ready for some pizza?” he asks the pup, trying to nail that excited tone parents use with their pups. 

Juwon nods enthusiastically, his eyes lighting up. The playful pup Jungkook met that one time at Jimin’s place is back. The big teeth make him look a little like a bunny and Jungkook is reminded of himself at that age. He had big teeth, big ears, and a big nose. And a horrible haircut. Juwon didn’t get cursed with that. Jimin definitely made sure he has a good haircut.

Suddenly, the sound of tires screeching behind them has Jungkook’s heartbeat jumping through his chest. 

His head whips around, spotting a sports car coming at them with alarming speed. Instinctively, he shields Juwon, placing himself in front of the pup.

The car comes to an aggressive halt, smoke coming from the tires. 

Jungkook’s chest lifts and sinks in heavy, panicked breaths. He can feel Juwon’s little hands grabbing the fabric of his suit jacket behind him.

The driver exits their car, looking unbothered. 

Jungkook’s chest swells with anger. “You!” he exclaims loudly. “Are you blind?! There’s a pup here!”

The alpha, realizing Jungkook means him, pauses and gives him a flabbergasted look. “Oh, I–”

“You can’t just drive that fast, asshole!”

The alpha spots Juwon peeking out from behind Jungkook. “Shit, I didn’t see you guys at all. I’m so sorry. I have a pup myself at home. I swear, I didn’t mean to.”

Jungkook calms down a little. “Reflect on your bad driving habits,” he says condescendingly. “Especially when you have a pup at home, man.”

Shame is evident on the alpha’s face. He nods and crouches down to be at Juwon’s height. “I’m sorry, yeah? Tell your appa I’ll do better from now on.”

Belatedly, Jungkook realizes the alpha naturally assumed he was Juwon’s father. “I’m not–”

“Okay,” Juwon says. “Driving fast is uncool.” He looks up at Jungkook and then does the most marvelous thing ever: tentatively, he wraps his hand around three of Jungkook’s fingers. “Can we go now?”

Too stunned to verbally react, Jungkook nods rigidly. Did Juwon just take his hand?

“Again, I’m very sorry,” the alpha apologizes. “You also eating at Ambrosia?”

“Yeah,” Jungkook says absentmindedly. His gaze is still trained on Juwon’s hand holding onto his. He can’t look away. Goosebumps have erupted all over his body.

In a trance, Jungkook walks Juwon inside the restaurant he frequents at least a couple of times a month. It’s close to his office and the ambiance is good for privacy. 

The waitress working at the register looks puzzled when she sees Jungkook coming in. Her eyes go comically wide when she notices Juwon next to Jungkook, holding his hand. “Sajang-nim… I’ll– I’ll get a table ready.”

“Thanks,” Jungkook mumbles, still in a daze. 

They get seated a few moments later, the service always being quick and incredible. Juwon looks around in awe, staring out of the huge windows and up at the tall ceiling that is covered by sparkling lights. He seems to drown in the big velvet chair, but there is a smile on his face and that is enough for Jungkook.

He calls over a waiter. “Hey, you guys have pizza here, right?”

“Uh,” the beta says, looking uneasy. “I guess the chef could make some?”

“Tell the cook my name and then tell him I requested it. Give us…let’s say three different flavors. Oh, and something to drink.” He looks at Juwon. “What do you wanna drink?”

“Can I have Sprite?” Juwon pleads, wriggling around on his chair. 

“A Sprite then,” Jungkook tells the beta. 

“Okay, pizza and Sprite coming right up,” the beta mumbles, sounding slightly worried by the special order, which Jungkook is sure no one has ever requested in this high-end restaurant.

“Will you buy me ice cream afterwards?” Juwon asks (not so) innocently. 

Jungkook bites his lip. He never discussed any of this with Jimin. He was supposed to pick him up and supervise him for a few hours, not feed him. Pizza and sprite are already quite unhealthy, so adding ice cream on top might not be the best idea. “We’ll see, okay? Let’s eat first.”

Juwon pouts, making Jungkook want to buy him all the ice cream in the world. “Okay.”

Jungkook eyes the pup, racking his mind for a way to build a connection to the pup. “Are you…are you still frustrated about that test?”

“What test?” Juwon looks suspicious again.

“Your teacher said you didn’t do well on a certain test and that you were frustrated.” 

Goddess, should he even be bringing this up?

“I don’t like math,” Juwon reveals, pouting harder. “Numbers are stupid. I wanna become a singer. Or maybe a rock climber.”

“A singer?” 

He nods enthusiastically. “Appa said singers make a lot of money. He works with a lot of rich people.”

“And you…want to be rich?”

Juwon nods even harder. “If I’m rich, I can buy all the Lego I want. And I can buy appa a new car. Ours broke down two times last month. Uncle Taehyung had to tow us to a garage he used to work at. That was cool though, I got to sit at the front!”

Jungkook’s alarm bells go off. “Two times?!”

Juwon rolls his eyes. “Appa said there is a problem with the…en– en–”

“Engine?” Jungkook finishes for him. 

“Yes.”

“Oh.” That is not good. His eyes dart to his phone. He should call Juri and tell her to find the best-suited family car– Nope. Stop. Stop it, Jungkook. You’re not thinking clearly.

But what makes his heart clench together even more violently is Juwon’s desire to help his father even at such a young age. Jungkook doesn’t doubt that Jimin is providing for Juwon well, but he can imagine that they’ve had it hard at first. Jimin is what? In his late-twenties? And Juwon is seven, so he had him quite early, probably when he was still in college. 

It reminds Jungkook of his own troubles in his youth. He wasn’t so self-aware at Juwon’s age, but the fact that the pup is hits him hard. 

His emotions get flipped, however, when Juwon drops, “Are you appa’s boyfriend?”

Jungkook almost falls from his chair. “Huh?”

Boyfriend–

“Appa never lets others pick me up. Only Taehyung, uncle Hoseok, or grandma.” 

“I– It was a different situation. Your appa had no other choice and I offered, so you don’t have to worry–”

“You’re cool, I guess,” Juwon says with a shrug like it’s not a big deal. “I do Taekwondo on Fridays. My teacher is also cool. Uncle Taehyung owns the studio, but he’s not my teacher.”

Jungkook tries to play it cool. “You think I’m cool?”

“I guess,” Juwon says nonchalantly. “My teacher is really cool. His name is Jackson.”

“I also used to do Taekwondo. I’m a black belt,” Jungkook says, feeling the need to appeal to Juwon.

Juwon perks up at that again. “Wahhh… Do you also like Lego?”

“Haven’t played with that in…a while, but I have a friend who collects it. He also manages singers and actors. Cool, huh? If you still want to become a singer when you’re older, maybe I can introduce you two. You need to start networking at an early age.”

“What does that mean? Managing? Networking?” Juwon wonders, repeating the words with slightly different intonation.

Juwon is quite curious, Jungkook notes. He asks questions and he is incredibly well-behaved. Jungkook had the impression pups his age were a walking disaster, but Juwon is proving him wrong. Courtesy of Jimin, Jungkook figures. Of course Jimin would raise his pup to be the most incredible little being ever.

“Managing means that you take care of people. You organize their lives, usually their work-lives. You know what I mean by that?”

“It’s what appa does!” he calls out, looking proud of himself.

“Oh, almost. Your appa manages events. Events are like huge parties. A birthday party is an event.”

“My birthday is in September! That was…” He looks at his hands, trying to calculate how long ago it was.

Jungkook’s cheeks hurt from the stupid smile permanently stuck to his face. “It was two months ago.”

“We saw a movie on my birthday. At the cinema. On this huuuuge TV. I want one like that at home,” Juwon says dreamily. “I could watch–”

They get interrupted by the waiter appearing with their drinks and pizza. Juwon lets out a squeal. The waiter looks amused by his reaction. Jungkook doubts they have pups here often. It is an establishment where celebrities frequent, and not exactly made for pups. 

“Dig in,” Jungkook says, grinning. To the waiter, he adds, “Thank you.”

“Thank youuu,” Juwon sing-songs. 

“No problem,” the waiter says, smiling. “Greetings from the chef, sajang-nim.”

“Greetings back,” Jungkook nods. “Tell Ha– Be careful, Juwon, it could be hot.” Jungkook’s hands twitch in the direction of the plates. The cook—his name is Hansol—made them salami, tuna, and veggie pizzas. Juwon looks like he wants to rub his face all over them.

“I’ll drink something first,” Juwon announces, hands disappearing from the pizza. He drinks his Sprite from a straw, gasping loudly for air after almost chugging down the whole thing in one go. 

“Is the Sprite good?” Jungkook wonders amusedly.

“Yes,” Juwon sighs. “Appa never lets me have it! Only on birthdays!”

Jungkook cringes internally. “Okay, well, how about we don’t tell you appa that you had one today, hm?”

Juwon grins mischievously. “Okay.”

The grin is adorable, showing off his bunny teeth again. Jungkook wants to pinch his cheek, but he holds him back and only gestures at the food. “Dig in, buddy. Want me to cut them into smaller pieces for you?”

Juwon picks up a slice, eyes widening and lips parting. “Can I eat with my hands?”

Around them, most guests are behaving exactly how one imagines guests at a luxurious restaurant to behave; like a bunch of stuck-ups. But Jungkook doesn’t care. “Sure,” he allows, “but be careful with your clothes.”

“Appa got really mad the other day when I came home with holes in my shirt,” Juwon tells him conversationally. “I used–” he bites from his pizza slice “–I used scissors. And then Gayoung said I looked cool, so I added more.”

“Is Gayoung a friend?”

“Hmm,” Juwon nods, stuffing more pizza inside him.

“Cool,” Jungkook notes, not knowing what more to say. He reaches for his own drink—a simple glass of water—and chugs it down.

“So, are you going to be appa’s boyfriend in the future then?”

Jungkook stops abruptly, his mouth full of water. He sets his glass down, trying to piece together an answer for the pup in front of him. 

“You’re going to be whose boyfriend?!”

The familiar voice appears behind him, a hand on Jungkook’s shoulder following right after. Jungkook nearly spits out the water inside his mouth when he recognizes the voice to be none other than Seokjin’s. 

Of course, out of everyone in the whole world, he would be here.

Jungkook feels gagged, caught, and embarrassed at once when Seokjin walks around the booth, eyebrows raised in a suggestive manner. “So,” he says with a devilish smirk, “who is this adorable little thing?”

Juwon looks at the actor with his mouth wide open. Jungkook must look similar for totally different reasons. He’s also trying hard to keep his mouth closed and not spill water over himself. 

“I’m Juwon,” Juwon says, sounding in awe. Kids have that particular look on their faces when they look at something they’ve never seen before—Seokjin, dressed in a matching set of purple, in this case. Then again, most people look at Seokjin this way. He commands attention, and he knows it.

“Hello, Juwon,” Seokjin says, smiling brightly. “You are so cute, has someone told you that before?”

Juwon goes red. “I’m not cute.”

“What are you then?” Seokjin asks.

Juwon looks utterly surprised Seokjin didn’t correct him. “Uhm…I do Taekwondo on Fridays?”

“Really? How lovely! And, tell me, how in the Goddess’ name are you affiliated with Jungkook over here?” Seokjin says cheerily, clapping a coughing Jungkook on the shoulder.

“Affiliated?” Juwon repeats, frowning. 

“Seokjin–” Jungkook tries to interfere, his throat not really cooperating.

“How come he’s eating with a pup like you, that’s what I’m asking,” Seokjin says. “Adorable pup that you are, but still.”

Juwon seems to gather his composure. That nonchalant look he gave Jungkook earlier comes back. He shrugs and reaches for another pizza slice. “He wants to be my appa’s bo–”

“I’m babysitting!” Jungkook rasps out. “I’m– It was an emergency. A coworker of mine needed some help, so I– I offered."

Under normal circumstances, Jungkook would be taking a picture of Seokjin’s confused and bamboozled expression, but he’s fighting for his life here, trying not to choke. “You…babysitting…for a coworker?”

“I babysit Catherine all the time–”

“Jungkook, you have employees, not coworkers–”

“So I don’t know why you seem surprised. I make a good babysitter–”

“He’s not Juri’s, is he? Oh my–”

“Can I have more Sprite?” Juwon chimes in.

“Why are you even here?” Jungkook asks shrilly. “You never come here!”

“I had lunch with Doha after I escaped from the paparazzi in their stupidly obnoxious white vans,” Seokjin informs him dismissively. “But that’s not important right now! Seeing you with a child is like seeing me without an assistant!”

Indeed, when Jungkook turns his head right, he sees someone lingering behind the omega. The young alpha is gawking at Seokjin, holding his bag obediently. It must be the new assistant.

“I don’t get the comparison,” Jungkook mutters, trying to get a hold of his composure.

“What parent of yours is Jungkook’s coworker?” Seokjin asks Juwon directly.

“My appa’s name is Jimin. He plans things,” Juwon says proudly.

Jungkook’s face has definitely gone red. Only Seokjin manages to get such a reaction out of him."

“Hmm, I see,” Seokjin hums. “What else can you tell me about your appa, sweet thing?”

Juwon sticks his lips out, his brows furrowing together. “He likes to sing?”

“He likes to sing…” Jungkook echoes dreamily.

“He and uncle Taehyung often sing together,” Juwon tells them openly, grimacing. “I have to cover my ears sometimes because it sounds horrible.”

“That reminds me of that one karaoke video I have of you, Jungkook,” Seokjin says with a fake smile.

Jungkook’s eyebrows go up. “Excuse me? What video?”

“Oh nothing nothing,” Seokjin dismisses teasingly. “Juwon, my lovely little boba ball, what do you think about Jungkook over here? Isn’t he such a reliable alpha?”

Juwon eyes Jungkook critically, his lips sticking out in a pout. “I guess he’s–”

Jungkook lets out awkward laughter and goes between Seokjin and Juwon. “That’s enough. No more questions. Juwon has to eat and you, hyung, you have to leave.”

“I’m not going anywhere!” Seokjin protests immediately. “Are you embarrassed, Jeon Jungkook?”

“Me?” he says shrilly. “No.”

“I beg to differ. Your ears are scarlet red. Scarlet , you hear?”

“They are not.”

They, in fact, are. Jungkook can feel it.

“It’s kind of adorable,” Seokjin notes, tilting his head to the side to inspect them. “I’ve not been so thoroughly entertained since Chungho showed up at my door with roses, trying to court me.”

“Who?!”

“That idol rapper,” Seokjin sighs ebulliently. “I had to let him down. I’m not dating rappers. I decided I want someone that doesn’t even know what Twitter is. Like, a nerd. He could even have a degree. Or, like, a whole PhD."

“Hyung, you have a degree,” Jungkook cries out.

“Well, until now I wanted to make sure I’m the more intelligent person in the relationship, but I realized I might need someone smarter than me after all.”

“Like Yoongi hyung?”

“Are you saying he’s smarter than me?” Seokjin scowls, letting out a gasp.

Jungkook would facepalm himself if he had the nerve, but he’s fighting for his life here! 

In the end, it’s his phone that saves him. 

He’s getting a call from none other than Jimin. With shaky hands, Jungkook rushes to pick up, turning away from a leering Seokjin while Juwon peacefully continues to eat his pizza, his hands so greasy that he promptly wipes them off on his clothes.

“Yes?” Jungkook breathes. 

“Hey,” Jimin says equally breathlessly, “just got out of the meeting. Is everything okay? Is Juwon behaving?”

“Yes,” Jungkook whispers, “all good.”

“Okay, amazing. Where are you? I’m gonna come and pick him up. I’m sorry that it took so long.”

“We’re at a restaurant,” Jungkook answers, trying to ignore Seokjin leaning in close to listen in on the call.

“Are you– Why are you whispering?” Jimin asks, sounding confused.

Jungkook clears his throat. “I’m not.”

“You totally were…” In the background, Jungkook hears the sound of Jimin’s shoes. He seems to be walking fast. “Anyway, I have to head to the hospital after this, so just text me the address and I’ll pick Juwon up."

Jungkook thinks for a second. “How about I meet you at the hospital? That would be way quicker.”

“Hospital? ” Seokjin whispers, intrigued.

Jimin ponders. “Hm, are you sure?”

“Yes, I’m sure–” He pushes Seokjin away from him. “Just text me what hospital I should come to.”

“Alright,” Jimin says softly, sounding relieved. “I’ll text.”

“Great, we’ll be on our way.”

“Jungkook-ssi?”

“Hm?”

“Thank you. Seriously.”

Jungkook tries to suppress his grin. “No problem.”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Seokjin—who somehow managed to sneak in on the ride, telling his assistant to follow them in their company car since it was allegedly a good way to ‘confuse the paparazzi and drive them crazy’—doesn’t stop talking to Juwon during the drive to the hospital. The pup continues raving about Go Pack and Seokjin indulges him, awfully enthusiastic about a kids show. Juwon didn’t manage to finish half of his pizza, so they took the second half to go and Jungkook left a huge tip for all the inconveniences. 

During the drive, Jungkook also grips the steering wheel so hard his knuckles have turned white. He couldn’t shake Seokjin off. He can never get rid of Seokjin when he latches onto him. Usually, Jungkook doesn’t mind, but in this case it means he’ll be taking him straight to Jimin. To the mysterious omega. 

“Juwon,” Seokjin announces, “you have impeccable taste. That show is incredible.”

“Impec-cable,” Juwon echoes clumsily, looking smug. 

“You said that perfectly!” Seokjin compliments, applauding him. “I should suggest you as my younger self in a future drama.”

From the driver’s seat, Jungkook scolds, “Hyung, you can’t do that to unfamiliar pups.”

“Well, I’m about to meet his father, aren’t I?” he says archly. 

Jungkook would like to prevent that from ever happening. “Still! I’m serious, hyung. Don’t talk about things like this so lightly.”

“Are you secretly the father of this cute boba ball or why are you so overprotective?” Seokjin says, laughing. “Did you forget to tell me this in our years of friendship?”

Juwon perks up and says, “I only have one father.”

Jungkook looks over his shoulder briefly and hisses at Seokjin, “Tone it down.”

In surrender, Seokjin holds both hands up. “Got it.” A second later, the corners of his mouth perk up and he blurts, “I can’t wait to tell Namjoon and Yoongi about this.”

Jungkook would consider driving the car off a cliff if Juwon wasn’t in it.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

It feels like salvation when the hospital comes into sight and Jungkook can hit the brakes—hard enough to have Seokjin squealing on the backseat and Juwon giggling at him.

The hospital parking lot is crowded, and Jungkook already knows hell will break out when people start noticing Seokjin. He is, to Jungkook’s dismay and to Seokjin’s delight, very famous.

“You should wait here,” he thus says to Seokjin.

“And miss watching you interact with an omega?” Seokjin laughs incredulously. “I think not.”

“You’ll cause a mosh pit if you go out there and people recognize you,” Jungkook says with a narrowed gaze.

Seokjin purses his lips, thinking for a second. “Fine. I suppose you’re right.”

“Where’s your assistant? Wasn’t he supposed to follow us?”

“I guess I could call him and see if the paparazzi caught him and are interrogating him right now.”

Jungkook blinks. “Hyung,” he says, lowkey terrified, “how bad is this paparazzi problem really?”

There’s no one in this world but Seokjin who’d shrug nonchalantly at paparazzi outright chasing him. “It’ll calm down soon. Chungho just needs to publicly kiss some other omega and I’ll become uninteresting.” He thinks for a second. “Or…I’ll kiss another alpha publicly…”

“Do you really think that’s a good idea?”

“Namjoon gives me a lot of shit, but I swear to the Goddess, our company’s stocks rise whenever I cause drama.”

Jungkook’s brows go up. “Well…”

“There’s appa!” Juwon explains suddenly, sticking his face to the window, his breath making it damp. 

Jungkook follows Juwon’s gaze to the entrance of the emergency care. Jimin is helping a bigger person, Taehyung, limp out of it, his left foot stuck in a cast. 

Seokjin mutters, “Goddess in the sky, who is that fine piece of meat?”

“Hands off,” Jungkook snaps, under the impression Seokjin is referring to Jimin who is certainly a fine piece of meat (he’d like to note he is heavily against objectifying omegas!). “And stay here! I’m gonna drop Juwon off. I’m begging you, hyung, don’t come outside.”

“Okay, okay, I’ll behave,” Seokjin claims, leaning back with a pout.

“Can we go outside?” Juwon asks, sounding excited at the prospect of seeing Jimin.

“Sure, you can unfasten your seatbelt,” Jungkook permits, doing the same to his own. He feels his phone vibrating with a text, his Apple Watch telling him at the same time that it’s from Jimin, asking when he’s going to be there. As he opens his door, he decides to not answer since Jimin will see him soon enough anyway.

Juwon is jumping up and down next to the car, obediently waiting for Jungkook to tell him he can cross the street. 

“Let’s go,” Jungkook says softly, suppressing a smile because, damn, Juwon is adorable. 

The words were enough to send Juwon off, the pup chasing across the street, shouting, “APPA! UNCLE TAEHYUNG!”

Jimin’s blonde head turns at his pup’s voice and a beautiful smile blooms on his face. “Juwon-ah!” he exclaims cheerfully, welcoming the pup by letting him hug his lower half and patting his back with his free arm.

Jungkook jogs after Juwon, arriving a few moments later to a groaning Taehyung who is getting swayed to the side by Jimin hugging a rapidly rambling Juwon. “Appa, we ate pizza! And I had a Sprite! And then we heard Go Pack! Can we listen to it on the way home?”

Jimin tries to listen, smiling lovingly at his son. “Juwon-ah, wait a–”

“And at the restaurant, we talked about Taekwondo! And then Jungkook hyung’s friend drove with us back here–”

Jimin nods at his son, and repeats calmly, “Juwon-ah, listen for a moment, okay? Take a deep breath for me, yeah?” 

Juwon breathes in, trying to calm himself down, following his father’s instructions. 

“Good, love, that’s good,” Jimin says with a proud smile. “We can talk in a second, okay? I’d love to hear about your day, I just have to talk to Jungkook-ssi for a second, okay.”

Eagerly, Juwon chirps, “Okay! Can I draw on your cast, Uncle Taehyung?” 

Taehyung goes, “Hm? Yeah, sure. Sorry, buddy, I’m a bit out of commission right now.”

“Oh, don’t be a baby. You just had some painkillers!” Jimin laughs, elbowing Taehyung.

“The doctors told me I need to rest for at least a few weeks–”

“And you want to do that at my place?” 

“Well…”

Jimin rolls his eyes at his friend. “Anyway,” he says, finally turning to Jungkook. Jungkook imagines his eyes soften as they fall upon him. “Sorry for this mess, Jungkook-ssi,” he whispers. “Thank you so much for watching Juwon and bringing him back here.”

“It was no problem. He was a saint, really,” Jungkook says with a dismissive wave. He’s trying his best to be nonchalant about this whole thing. Although by now he should know he’s very much not nonchalant when it comes to Jimin.

“Really?” Jimin retorts, brows shooting up. “You’re not lying to me, are you?”

“He was incredibly well-behaved,” Jungkook assures. “Right, Juwon?"

Smirking, Juwon confirms, “Yes.”

Even Taehyung seems surprised. “Wow, that’s impressive. Good job, buddy.” He gives him a fist bump. 

Jungkook takes in the alpha’s state for a moment, wondering if he might have received a few too many painkillers. His lids are only half-open and he’s definitely leaning on Jimin. So much so that the omega seems to be uncomfortable too, even if he’d probably never say that out loud. 

“The pizza!” Juwon exclaims, ripping Jungkook from his thoughts so suddenly he flinches. The next second, Juwon is tugging on the fabric of Jungkook’s slacks, looking up at him with a pout. 

Jungkook’s fragile heart stumbles. “Oh, right. I forgot it in the car.” Then he realizes they also forgot the car seat.

Jimin casts him an inquisitive look. “Oh?”

“We took the rest to go,” he explains. “It’s still in the trunk. There’s also the car seat.”

“Oh yeah, the car seat. I do need that one.”

“Can we go get the pizzaaaaaa?” Juwon begs, pouting even harder, tugging on Jimin’s arm.

“Ah, Juwon-ah, you don’t need it,” Jimin tries to protest, which propels Juwon to let out a whine. 

Jungkook can see the pup becoming overstimulated. It was a long day, after all. His first instinct is to de-escalate. “I will just get them both real quick. Don’t worry.”

“What direction is your car in?” Jimin wonders, his face slowly morphing into a picture of exhaustion too.

“It’s over there.” Jungkook points across the street where his SUV is parked, Seokjin still inside. 

“Oh, my car is close. Let’s just go together then.”

Before Jimin gives him permission, Juwon starts running. 

“Hey!” Jimin calls out, stepping forward with a half-loopy Taehyung hanging from his side.

Jungkook decides he’s had enough of seeing Jimin struggle, so he promptly grabs Taehyung’s arm and loops it around his own shoulder so Jimin is free.

He blinks at Jungkook. “You– You don’t have to do this.”

Taehyung is heavier than he looks—he’s certainly more lanky than Jungkook but he’s almost the same height and an alpha, after all—but Jungkook is used to lifting heavy stuff. He goes to the gym, thank you. He’d certainly be able to lift Jimin without any trouble— Thoughts, Jungkook, watch your thoughts!

“Is he not too heavy?” Jimin asks with a grimace.

“APPA!” Juwon yells from afar.

“No,” Jungkook assures.

“Okay, I– I’m gonna rush after Juwon,” Jimin announces, setting off to make sure his pup isn’t running around a parking lot unwatched. 

Slightly worried, Jungkook goes after him with Taehyung slowing him down.

“Holy Goddess,” the alpha mutters, “what did they give me…”

“Walk with me, man,” Jungkook says tightly, basically having to drag the alpha.

“I’m trying,” Taehyung retorts, almost slurring his words.

Jungkook groans, thankfully making it to his car unscathed. Juwon is already jumping up and down right next to it and Jungkook’s worst nightmare—Seokjin—is opening the trunk, while Jimin says, “Aren’t you Kim Seokjin?!”

That seems to wake Taehyung up. “Kim Seokjin?”

Jungkook hurries to park Taehyung on the backseat, where he falls on top of Juwon’s car seat. Jungkook is too desperate to do damage control to really care.

“I think you’re mistaken,” Seokjin says innocently to Jimin.

“Oh,” the omega rushes to say, “I am so sorry! You really look like him…”

“I’m just messing with you! Of course I’m him, he’s me,” the actor says, fanning himself.

Jimin gawks—Jungkook’s never seen him do that. “Oh my Goddess…”

“Hyung,” Jungkook hisses, “didn’t I tell you to wait inside…”

“And just ignore the little boba ball trying to get back inside?” Seokjin says incredulously. “I think not.”

“When did you think to mention that you’re driving around with Korea’s best actor?” Jimin says exasperatedly.

“Why, thank you,” Seokjin says with a pleased face. “What’s your name, darling?”

“It’s Jimin.”

“Lovely to meet you, Jimin-ssi.”

“Thank you…” Jimin blushes and they shake hands. Jungkook’s heart is about to explode. He cannot let Seokjin know too much about Jimin

“Tell me, Jimin-ssi, how come Jungkook–”

“Hyung,” Jungkook cuts in, grabbing Seokjin by his shoulders, “do you see that group of people over there? They’re already looking and trying to place your face.”

“Oops,” Seokjin says, sounding unapologetic. “Jimin-ssi, it was lovely to meet you and your pup. Adorable thing. If you want him to go into acting, shoot me a call. I’d love to cast him as my younger self in some upcoming project.”

“Uhm,” Jimin says. “Okay?”

“I told you not to say that!” Jungkook cries, pushing Seokjin back inside and forcing the door shut. Of course the trunk is still open and the other side is too, where Taehyung is sitting on the backseat, his legs dangling out.

“Jungkook!” Seokjin shouts. “Who is this alpha on your backseat?”

Jimin looks incredibly apologetic about Taehyung taking up the backseat, but Jungkook says, “Just ignore it. Ignore him.”

With a shake of his head, Jimin laughs, “I have to say, you get more interesting by the day. I really expected everything but this."

Jungkook prays Seokjin didn’t catch that, but it seems like he’s chatting—a one-sided conversation, really—with Taehyung.

“So, uhm, where’s your car? I’ll help carry Taehyung-ssi and the car seat over,” Jungkook says, clapping his hands together, suddenly desperate to end this embarrassing situation.

“Just over there,” Jimin provides, pointing at his car parked just about ten meters away. “And don’t worry, I’ll get the car seat.

Juwon, carrying his backpack and the pizza cartons—his head almost disappearing behind them—says, “I’m tired.”

“Oh, we’re about to go home, Juwon-ah. Just a moment longer,” Jimin assuages.

Jungkook closes the trunk and automatically goes to get Taehyung. To his surprise, he seems more animated than before, gawking at Seokjin. Of course he’d be gawking. Everyone gawks at the omega.

“You’ll call me?” Seokjin asks sweetly, making a phone sign with his hand.

Jungkook suppresses a groan. He should have known Taehyung would catch Seokjin’s attention. “Yo,” he says curtly to Taehyung, “let’s get you to Jimin-ssi’s car.”

“Yeah,” Taehyung says quietly, unable to take his eyes off of Seokjin.

Jungkook rolls his eyes demonstratively and heaves the alpha out of the backseat, closing the door and then looping one arm around his shoulders again. 

Jimin reaches into the car, unfastening the car seat. He waves at Seokjin. “It was an honor to meet you!”

Seokjin blows him a kiss. “I’m sure we’ll see each other again soon! Maybe I’ll drop by the company!”

Jungkook will know to prevent that from ever happening.

“Let’s go,” he says to Jimin and Juwon, jerking his head into the direction of Jimin’s car, practically ushering them away from the mess that Seokjin is.

Juwon walks holding Jimin’s free hand this time and doesn’t just set off. It calms Jungkook, who has only today been made aware of the terrible drivers in this city and how apparently none of them think about the potential pups running around! Like, hello? He inwardly shakes his head, remembering the idiot alpha who was speeding earlier on Ambrosia’s parking lot.

Thankfully, the walk is short and Taehyung is much more cooperative this time. The alphas don’t say a word to each other (it might be due to mutual embarrassment), but Jungkook thinks it is better that way.

Jimin opens the car immediately when they’re in reach and then also opens the door to the passenger seat for Jungkook and Taehyung. “Do you need help?”

“No, I got it,” Jungkook presses out, maneuvering Taehyung onto it. 

The car smells of Jimin and Juwon. It’s unmistakable. The pup’s toys, books and a bunch of other things are also lying around, giving the car some personality and a homey feeling. Jungkook breathes in a little too deep, the scent a little too comforting.

Once Taehyung is seated, Jungkook dryly says, “You can put your seatbelt on on your own, yeah?”

Taehyung shows him a half-assed peace sign. “I’m good, gala guy.”

Jungkook isn’t sure if heard right. “Huh?”

“I’m good, rich guy, I said.”

“Okay, whatever,” Jungkook mutters, closing the door and walking around the car to see Jimin ushering Juwon into the back seat where his car seat is being installed by Jimin again. 

The pup immediately grabs a toy that is lying around—some dragon made of Lego. Jungkook does recall Juwon saying earlier that he likes Lego.

“Okay, just a moment, boys,” Jimin says to Juwon and the half-conscious Taehyung before he slams the door shut and leans again, running his hands over his face.

Jungkook lets his eyes run over Jimin’s figure. He can sense the exhaustion, can outright smell it on Jimin. His sweet scent—Jungkook still hasn’t been able to place what exactly it reminds him of due to the blockers that muffle it—is slightly laced with the bitterness of exertion and tiredness.

“He okay?” Jungkook asks, nodding towards Taehyung inside the car. He doesn’t care that much about the alpha, but he needs to have some decency, right?

“Yeah… He’ll be fine. He just won’t be able to walk around for a while until the foot heals. So stupid, really.”

“I see,” Jungkook answers. “That’s too bad.”

“By the way, thank you so much,” Jimin says suddenly, straightening himself. He looks straight at Jungkook, a softness in his eyes that has Jungkook melting. “Goddess, I’m seriously… I don’t know where my head is. You really saved this day.”

Despite himself melting over Jimin, he also feels concerned. A frown settles on his face. He can’t help it. “Are you okay? Is it the–”

“The heatpause?” Jimin says with a dry laugh. “I guess, yeah. Well, it’s not actually heatpause, haha. I was probably exaggerating this morning.”

“Okay…”

“Well… We’ll have to see. I only have the appointment tomorrow, so maybe she’ll tell me I’m no longer able to– I mean–” Jimin goes red, realizing he’s oversharing. “Oh Goddess, what am I even saying…”

Jungkook can’t help himself; the corners of his mouth go up. 

“Don’t laugh at me!” Jimin protests, lifting his hand to playfully slap Jungkook. Before his hand actually touches Jungkook, it freezes mid-air, Jimin once again realizing what he was about to do.

There’s a moment of silence. 

A moment too long.

Both of them begin talking at the same time. 

“I–” Jungkook begins.

“I’m sorry–” Jimin says.

“Why are you sorry?” Jungkook says quietly, eyes scanning the omega’s face intently.

“Because I forced my pup on you and made you carry my friend around,” he whispers, averting his gaze. “And now I’m keeping you from leaving by rambling…”

Jungkook has to suppress the instinct to grab Jimin’s chin and turn it to him. He keeps his hands firmly stuffed in his pockets. He has to keep a distance, he reminds himself.

“I volunteered, remember?”

“I’ll tell the tabloids,” Jimin says jokingly, still sounding guilty, though.

“Please do. Then they’ll finally have something interesting to report about me.”

“Are you that boring?”

“So much so that they make things up.”

“Like what?”

Jungkook shrugs nonchalantly. “Go and read them and you’ll see.”

“Do they know you’re friends with the Kim Seokjin?” Jimin breathes.

“I don’t like how excited you are about this.” Jungkook pouts. 

“It’s not everyday that I just randomly meet celebrities! How did it even happen that he was there suddenly?” Jimin says in defense of himself.

“He was at the restaurant I took Juwon to.”

“What kind of restaurant was it that a celebrity dines there?” Jimin laughs.

“Well…a rich one.”

Jimin huffs another laugh. “Of course. I should have known.”

“Well, don’t tell him you’re an event planner. He’ll try to make you plan his parties.”

“Oh my Goddess, I’d love to.”

Jungkook pauses. “Really? I– Well, I guess I could arrange establishing contact?”

Jimin waves him off. “No, please, don’t bother. I already caused way too much trouble. I actually still can’t believe I really made you watch Juwon. Was he really well-behaved today?”

“Yeah, I fear I gave him too much unhealthy food, though…” Jungkook confesses.

“Oh, please, I don’t care. He’s usually not very easy with strangers, so the fact that he was so calm around you is…” Jimin gulps, not finishing his words. 

“He was a bit mellow because of a failed test,” Jungkook reveals.

“Oh, math again?”

“I believe so, yeah.”

“Argh, I should find a tutor,” Jimin sighs. 

“Aren’t they expensive these days?”

“Well, thankfully GAT is paying me well, huh?” he says mirthfully, smiling at Jungkook.

Jungkook nods, pushing his tongue against the inside of his cheek. “Well, I hope so. I don’t want to have my reputation ruined.”

“I’ve heard a bunch of things since I started planning the party,” he says cheekily.

“Really now? Good things only, I assume?”

“Well…” Jimin shrugs, cocking his head to the side. 

“Woahh, this is the treatment I get after all this…” Jungkook shakes his head.

“Maybe I’ll tell you some time,” Jimin says mysteriously.

“Some time?”

“I’m just waiting to see if the rumors are true,” he adds even more mysteriously.

“What?” Jungkook says huskily, his heart going haywire again. It’s never calm around the omega. He should start taking pills for his blood pressure.

“You know what?” Jimin starts to say, changing the topic smoothly. “I’m craving a cigarette right now, but we’re in a parking lot, my best friend is being absolutely insufferable, and I’m sure Juwon is two seconds away from taking my car apart. So…I’m gonna head home now.”

Jungkook can’t do much but nod and say, “Yeah.”

Jimin lingers for a second longer. Jungkook can’t interpret his gaze correctly. There’s something in it…

“I’ll see you around, Jungkook-ssi,” he says sweetly, hopping inside his car, leaving Jungkook behind.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

In the evening, after Jungkook survived taking Seokjin home because his assistant who was driving the company’s car got ambushed, and Seokjin interrogated him about Jimin (“He’s so pretty, Jungkook. Please tell me you won’t screw this up.”), Jungkook finally manages to lie down.

The first thing he does is answer Juri. The beta threatened two times in the span of a day to hand in her resignation, so Jungkook is slightly worried. Jungkook shoots her a text, claiming he had an emergency to take care of. Her answer comes immediately and basically consists of her calling him out on the lie, claiming she knows everything about his life and he’d know if he had an emergency. Well, she’s not wrong. There are no secrets to Jungkook’s life. He’s boring. 

(Well…Juri doesn’t know about his unethical crush on Jimin yet. But that is also just a matter of time.)

Jungkook decides to let her suffer from not knowing what he really did. He’s sure Juri will find out soon enough anyway. 

To calm down, he does what he’s been doing a lot recently; listening to Cigarettes after Sex, lounging on his couch while a fake fire is burning on the flat screen for ambiance, and numbing his thoughts.

Unfortunately, his phone vibrates with a text. Lazily, he opens one eye, thinking it’s Juri again or perhaps Seokjin.

It’s not.

It’s Jimin.

And Jungkook jolts up so abruptly, he falls from the couch.

Jimin, 22:44PM

Hi, just wanted to say thank you again :) Juwon can’t stop raving about you and Kim Seokjin (Taehyung also can’t stop raving about him…). Juwon’s going to take the pizza to school tomorrow and eat it for breakfast - I made an exception for him, haha. Anyway, just wanted to also ask how much I owe you for the pizza! I could, like, Paypal you, I guess?

Jungkook reads the text three times. Three miserable times. He doesn’t text often. Usually only with Seokjin, or with Juri when she doesn’t manage to catch him on the phone. Namjoon sends him emails sometimes  to schedule a time to meet up, like the fellow business man he is. And Yoongi will simply show up or text Jungkook once every blue moon.

So when he finally has enough brain power to construct an answer, it takes him forever, his fingers tentatively and nervously hovering over the screen. Jimin doesn’t seem to be online. He probably doesn’t expect Jungkook to reply. 

Jungkook, 22:52PM 

Glad to hear that! Pizza for breakfast also sounds amazing, I should try that. No money needed. Don’t have Paypal, anyway. 

Jimin replies immediately.

Jimin, 22:53PM

You don’t have Paypal? I could give you the money in cash.

He does have Paypal.

Jungkook, 22:53PM

Don’t want your money :) 

Also, go to bed. You’re still sick

He regrets that second part immediately and tries to unsend it, but Jimin is already typing.

Jimin, 22:54PM

I’m brushing my teeth right now! It’s hard to tiype with on hand. Also, Im not sick! Lies!

Jungkook, 22:55PM

I could tell earlier. Nothing gets past me. I have eagle eyes.

Jimin, 22:56PM

Send me your bank account number or sth. Or I’ll ask Juri about it!

Jungkook, 22:57PM

Stop threatening me.

Jimin, 22:57PM

You consider this a threat?

Jungkook, 22:58PM

I’m about to call my lawyer. He’s crazy good.

Jimin, 22:59PM

I’m scaaaared

Then, a minute later:

Jimin, 23:00PM

But, fine. Won’t pay you back with money, but I owe you! 

Jungkook doesn’t like that either. Still, he replies with:

Jungkook, 23:01PM

Noted.

Jimin, 23:02PM

Good night! 

Jungkook, 23:03PM

Good night, Jimin

To his surprise, Jimin doesn’t correct him. 

And to his even bigger surprise, Jimin sends another text ten minutes later.

Jimin, 23:13PM

Here’s a song I like these days. You should try listening to it, Mr. Workaholic! Some music for your soul!

Jungkook clicks on the link, the new song—a soft and melodic one—starting to play. He adds it to his Playlist immediately, which only consists of Cigarettes After Sex songs and now this one: Dear Trouble by Correatown.

He lies on his side, the song playing in his ears, a serene smile on his face.

Chapter Text

moodboard by my love @Jiminszephyr

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

08.11.24, 14:33PM, posted by @miraeTM

okay, so does anyone remember that post by that one GAT worker talking about their tsundere CEO? I’ve been thinking about him… * sighs dreamily * 

203 likes   37 shares    33 comments

@chimmmmminie: Jeon Jungkook of GoldenAegis Tech?

—@miraeTM: yes, him!!! I lowkey have tea, but idk if I should make it public?? Like,,, might or might not just saw him walking around with a pup? 🙃

—@chimmmmminie: oh my goddess, you think he has a pup?!

—@miraeTM: maybe?!?!? idk

—@chimmmmminie: holyyyy fuck, so he’s probably mated and no one at that company knows???? 🤯

—@ShelliShanks: He’s definitely NOT mated. I work at GAT and he’s not mated

—@miraeTM: gurl are u his personal assistant or how would you know?????

—@ShelliShanks: no but if anyone knew if he’s mated or not it would be me

—@miraeTM: you sound hella delusional… I just said I saw him with a pup and we assumed he might be the father. Well, maybe he’s not, who knows. Maybe it’s his nephew or whatever. All I know is that he looked good with a pup by his side. But you’re weird for claiming you out of everyone would know…

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Guilt isn’t unfamiliar to Jungkook. 

After his father’s death, Jungkook felt guilty. Why? He still isn’t entirely sure. It was just easier to transform the anger, disbelief and helplessness into guilt that functioned as a catalyst for every emotion thus after. 

Guilt became his default setting, numbness following right after.

Throughout his twenties things got better and Jungkook found his way back to healthier emotions, but since meeting Jimin again things inside him stirred up. He realizes—with a big sigh—he should have taken Namjoon’s advice years ago and perhaps gone to therapy.

Well, instead he became a workaholic who neglects most of his personal relationships and treats those people without the consideration they deserve.

Perhaps that is why he meets up with Sooyoung first thing in the morning for breakfast, a guilty conscience, flowers and a gift with him.

When she arrives at the table, she sighs. “You brought flowers?”

Jungkook stands up abruptly, stammering, “Sooyoung-ssi, I– I should apologize for–”

“Hey, it’s alright,” she cuts in, letting out a snort. “No need to feel bad. We’ve all forgotten a date before. Well, maybe ghosting for almost two weeks isn’t exactly normal, but in our line of work it’s understandable.” She shrugs, sliding into the seat, smelling the flowers. “How did you know I love dahlias?”

Jungkook stares open-mouthed at the omega, wondering how he’s supposed to break the news to her that he has to stop seeing her. “I… I just guessed.”

“Won’t you sit back down?”

“I have something to say.” His throat is dry. Very dry. His throat is never dry, not even when he has to talk in front of thousands of people at conventions.

“That you don’t see a future for us? Yeah, I know.”

“I wanted to say that it was lovely meeting you, but– What?” He stops mid-sentence, only then realizing what she just said.

“Don’t just stand there so awkwardly, looking like an idiot,” she chuckles, looking him up and down. “Sit. Let’s have breakfast. I’ve got a meeting in an hour.”

“I–”

“You’re great,” she says with another sigh at Jungkook’s denseness, “but we aren’t compatible, are we? I think we both like work too much. I’ll tell my mom I dumped you, don’t worry.”

“Yeah, that’d be good,” Jungkook mumbles, sitting down slowly as he comes to his senses. 

“After turning thirty, she had a meltdown that I’m not yet mated,” Sooyoung snorts, reaching for the little bag with the gift Jungkook impulsively bought yesterday. 

As she unboxes it, Jungkook thinks about ordering champagne for breakfast. His nerves were going through the roof, and now he isn’t sure how to handle her laid back reaction. 

“But I told her I was married to my career. So, sooner or later I would have probably forgotten about you too,” she says casually, holding the perfume Jungkook bought her to her nose. “Oh, this is a lovely smell, thank you so much. I have to say, I’ve never received a break-up gift before. Not even my ex-boyfriends were so nice."

“I felt bad for ghosting,” Jungkook croaks out. 

“I’m assuming something important kept you occupied?”

“I mean,” Jungkook says slowly, unsure how to tell her that he’s been fixated on an omega who is unavailable.

Somehow, she catches on anyway. “There’s someone else!” she exclaims, throwing a hand over her mouth. 

“What? No, no, there’s no one.”

“You’re a horrible liar,” she retorts humorfully, shaking her head, eyes twinkling in curiosity. “Tell me everything.”

Jungkook inclines his head. “You’re really not mad? I would totally understand it. Honestly, I’d maybe even prefer it…"

“You’re not my first rodeo. I’ve been going on arranged dates since I turned twenty-one. I can tell when they had already given their heart to somebody else. Well, when I met you I didn’t clock it right away, so I’m assuming it’s a recent development?”

For Jungkook, the arranged dates only started recently. Well, before that his mother wasn’t very social. She took a long time to recover from her mate’s death. Perhaps that is one of the reasons why Jungkook never truly fought his mother’s attempts at setting him up. It felt like another one of those obligations to fulfill the expectations people in his life have of him, especially her. 

“I’m sorry,” Jungkook says carefully. 

“It’s all good. Thank you for being honest though. Well, except for that last lie!”

“Ah…” Jungkook scratches his head. “There’s no one, I swear.”

“But you wish there was someone?”

“I mean…” He looks away, unable to hold her inquisitive gaze.

“What’s the issue?"

“Too many to count,” Jungkook sighs. He should really order that champagne.

“Okay, tell me about it,” Sooyoung says easily, jerking her head at Jungkook in challenge. She also waves at the waiter to come to their table, telling him, “Could you bring us some champagne?”

Jungkook can’t help the laugh that comes from him. 

“Right away,” the waiter says politely, disappearing.

Jungkook shakes his head incredulously, wondering if he perhaps just gained a friend in Sooyoung. “Okay, let me tell you about my situation.”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

When Jungkook wakes up this morning, chugging down some vanilla-flavoured protein shake before hitting the gym, he definitely doesn't expect to end up at a police station later on.

But first things first.

It's a Monday. 

And this Monday is a great one since Jimin is going to give an update on the current state of the Christmas party.

He sent an email to Juri last week, Jungkook in the CC. Jungkook of course saved the day and made Juri move some things around. Usually at this time on Mondays, Jungkook is on the phone with the CEO of the American manufacturer they work with. 

But today, he took a raincheck to sit in the biggest conference room the headquarters have, waiting for Jimin to grace him with his presence.

He hasn't seen the omega since he babysat Juwon a week ago. There have been no texts either, but Jungkook has been diligently listening to the new song Jimin recommended. Time, fortunately, went by quickly, for he went on a short business trip to Japan from Wednesday to Friday, and then had lunch with his mother on Saturday.

She didn't bring up Sooyoung to Jungkook’s utter surprise, but she also seemed tired to begin with. Winter is rushing in, claiming everyone's health; Jungkook figured she must be coming down with something and prayed to the Goddess that he won't contract anything from her.

Sunday was then spent in great anticipation of seeing Jimin again and perhaps, just perhaps, having a conversation with him. 

Jungkook determined an ideal structure for how their conversation should go.

1. Breaking the ice by jesting Jimin owes him money
2. Then smoothly bringing up the song Jimin recommended and how Jungkook loves it
3. Carefully suggesting they could maybe go on a date?

And then there is a fourth point, but this is of course a bit ambitious.

1. Getting mated and having a Cigarettes After Sex song play while Jimin walks down the aisle

Anyway.

Jungkook wouldn’t have made it this far in life without ambition (and delusion).

Another dilemma he came across during his conversation with Sooyoung was the absolute lack of romantic experience. How does one normal alpha convince an absolutely breathtaking, completely out of his league omega that he’s worth considering as a future mating candidate?

Well, Sooyoung wasn’t that much of a help either, since she had, similar to Jungkook, almost no proper romantic experience. At least she has had two failed relationships. Jungkook has had 0.5 at most, if he counts the boyfriend he had in highschool who dated him out of charity. 

Since then, he’s been too busy for love—or so the excuse has been.

When Jungkook enters the conference room, he enters with absolute nonchalance, hoping to impress the right person. The sun is shining into it nicely, adding to the ambiance.

Unfortunately, the only responses he gets are from people he hasn’t seen before, and from the few employees who are sitting in on the meeting as well.

The strangers—people from the venue, catering, and music, Jungkook figures—stare with wide eyes. His employees with even wider eyes. Not a bad response, but the person Jungkook was aiming for isn’t here yet.

“Good morning, Sajang-nim,” Chaeyoung, the marketing director greets politely.

“Good morning,” Jungkook replies curtly, looking around the conference room. The atmosphere became tense with his arrival. Over the years, Jungkook became accustomed to the cloud of authority he has to wield. Sometimes it even gives him an ounce of satisfaction.

Behind him, Juri almost rams her knee into Jungkook’s leg. “Take a seat, for Goddess’ sake,” she hisses under her breath so only Jungkook can hear it.

Jungkook suppresses the urge to roll his eyes. He walks around the large table towards the head of it, giving the young beta who sits in it a sharp look. The beta scrambles up from the seat immediately, muttering nervously, “Please take a seat, sajang-nim.”

“Hm,” Jungkook hums. From back here, he has a perfect view of the other end of the table, which is reserved for Jimin.

“When is Jimin-ssi coming?” Jungkook asks Juri conversationally.

Juri is slurping on some matcha concoction next to Jungkook, looking at some list on her phone. “He should be here already,” she shrugs. “I’m guessing he’s a bit late."

“Why?”

“Why?” she copies.

“Yeah, why is he late?”

“How would I know?” Juri retorts, giving him a sassy look.

“I mean,” Jungkook says, trying to save his ass, “don’t I have other things scheduled after this?”

“Well, yes,” she says. “There is this huge stack of files on your desk, waiting for your unparalleled attention.”

Jungkook wishes he could punch something. “Right,” he drawls, “that.”

“Yes, that.”

“I hate my job.”

“There is also the–”

Like someone pressed pause, Juri’s voice disappears as the glass door opens and the omega that has been occupying Jungkook’s mind for months now strides inside, stealing Jungkook’s breath.

When he told Sooyoung of his predicament she laughed at him. He also laughed at himself. Then she said it’s hopeless and he should just let it go. 

Unfortunately for Jungkook, he can’t.

The temperature of the room rises exponentially when Jimin says, “Hi! Great to see you all!”

Or maybe it’s just Jungkook who thinks they should open a window.

Clipboard under his arm, bag in his hand, Jimin walks confidently towards the white screen. He sets himself up, completely unbothered by the impatient people around the table.

As always, Jungkook’s brain takes notice of Jimin’s well-coordinated outfit choice. Today, perhaps because it is a Monday, he is wearing black. Jungkook has never seen anyone look so chic in black. Jimin should have been a model, he decides. 

Internally, Jungkook wonders if Jimin will notice him, or if his gaze will go over Jungkook completely. The room is crowded, sure, but there’s only one person sitting at the head of the long conference table and it’s Jungkook. 

“So,” Jimin says calmly, “I see everyone is already gathered. Perfect. Should we start then, yeah?” He adds a little smile at the end, but it doesn’t reach his eyes.

Or maybe Jungkook is interpreting too much into it? Maybe Jimin is just way more professional than him?

Instead of actually listening to what Jimin is saying, and what the other representatives have to say, Jungkook spends his time trying to read Jimin. 

He can’t take his eyes off the omega, even when the other people constantly look at him for approval. 

It helps that he’s usually stoic in meetings, so no one seems surprised that he’s not really reacting to anything.

The only person who doesn’t seem like he’s looking for approval is Jimin.

He goes through everything smoothly, doesn’t stumble over his words even once, but he’s not as passionate as usual.

Jungkook feels a little insane for noticing, and even more so for the way he knows his scent spiked. He desperately hopes his blockers conceal it, that increase of concern and worry that is probably oozing out of his pores right this moment.

After the presentation is over, Jungkook feels glued to his seat. Majority of the time, he’s the first person to leave a room, too busy to linger. But this time, he stays seated, watching everyone else say goodbye and leave. 

“I’m going to chat with Jimin for a second,” Juri says, rising to approach Jimin who is packing his things together.

Jungkook doesn’t listen on purpose when Jimin chats with Juri. It just happens naturally. He has good ears, okay?

“Do you want to get lunch?” Juri asks cheerfully.

“Oh,” Jimin says with a sad smile, “I can’t. I have to run an errand and catch the bus.”

The last part is what makes Jungkook listen in closer. Bus? 

“Oh, where do you have to go?”

“I have to pick up my son,” Jimin reveals with a half-assed smile.

Juri’s eyebrows shoot up. “You have a pup? Why haven’t you shown me pictures yet?!”

“Ah, I will!” Jimin promises. “Next time, yeah. I’ll show you a bunch.”

“Please do! I love pups!”

She does? Jungkook wonders. She never mentioned that to him before.

“Really? Well, I’ll drown you in pictures then,” Jimin says warmly. “Look, I really gotta run. I’ll see you next week, okay?”

“Of course! Bye!” Juri calls after the omega as he walks out.

Jungkook gets up from his seat hastily, pretending to be nonchalant as he follows Jimin out of the conference room.

Behind him, he hears Juri wondering, “Where in the Goddess’ name is he?”

“Jimin-ssi, wait!” Jungkook calls out softly halfway down the hallway.

Jimin gasps, whirling around. “Yes?"

“Why are you taking the bus?” Jungkook blurts.

Jimin scowls, zeroing in on Jungkook. He crosses his arms. “Did you eavesdrop?”

“Please, you guys were talking pretty loud and I was in the same room, minding my business…”

Jimin continues walking, heading for the elevator. “You’re a bad liar."

“Just tell me, are you really taking the bus?”

“Yes…?”

“Why?”

Jimin eyes him warily. “My car is acting up. It's stuck in the freaking garage downstairs.”

“Really? What's the problem with it?”

“I don't know. Something with the engine, who knows.” He sighs tiredly.

They reach the elevator, Jimin pressing the level for the ground floor. Jungkook gets on with him.

“Isn't the school kind of far from here?” Jungkook asks carefully. 

“Ah, yeah. It's okay though.” He pauses suddenly when he realizes Jungkook is still there. “Isn't your office on a different floor? Should I press the button?”

“No need,” Jungkook says.

“Are you going out for lunch?”

“I have to go out, yeah,” he says vaguely, trying to figure out what in the Goddess’ name he's currently doing. “Actually,” he adds, failing at sounding casual, “I’m heading in the direction of Juwon’s school.”

“You…do?” Jimin asks skeptically.

“Yep.” Jungkook nods, making it look natural.

“Okay?”

“So why don't I just drop you off there real quick? It'll save some time.”

Jimin, standing at the other end of the elevator, cocks his head to the side. “I don’t know… I already feel bad for last time.”

“Oh, please, I told you I babysit all the time. It was no hassle at all.”

“A cat,” Jimin points out.

“She's practically human,” Jungkook insists. “I swear, we have full blown conversations with one another!”

“Okay, fine, I'll give it to you.”

“So, what do you say? Wanna carpool?”

Jimin lets out a sigh, running a hand through his soft hair. “Only because I’m already running late.”

“Cool,” Jungkook says. “Cool, cool, cool.”

“Do you watch Brooklyn 99?”

“What?” Jungkook asks. “Is that a show?”

The weird look Jimin gives him is so incomprehensible to Jungkook, he chooses to just not ask further questions. 

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Once again, the ride is silent.

Jungkook glances over at Jimin every now and then, and to his surprise he catches Jimin doing the same. None of them address it verbally. Jungkook focuses on driving, paying extra attention to making the ride as smooth as possible. 

He has the radio on, too shy to put on his Jimin-playlist. He thought about it, but wouldn’t it seem too…pushy?

Jimin isn’t paying attention to the radio at all anyway. Overall, he looks as dejected as he did during the presentation, causing Jungkook to think that there’s more going on than just the regular stress adults have—especially adults that are also single parents.

Is it the car?

When they headed to Jungkook’s car, the alpha looked around, trying to spot Jimin’s, but he couldn’t find it. He didn’t inquire Jimin about it further either, realizing the omega probably doesn’t want Jungkook meddling in his business like this.

Either way, Jungkook is having trouble containing his worry. He’s having trouble not just outwardly telling Jimin he wants to take care of him and do something for him. 

But Jungkook has always been good at reading the room. Somewhat, at least. Enough to know when someone doesn’t want to have a conversation and would rather sit in silence. Jimin isn’t even humming along—isn’t that the biggest sign that he’s not okay?

Jungkook also recalls the omega’s health problems, wondering if this is perhaps connected. Again, he will keep his thoughts to himself. He just wants Jimin to be comfortable. At least during this fifteen minute car ride.

When they turn up to the school, Jungkook parks the car as close to the building as possible. It’s already swarming with pups and parents and Jimin is seemingly getting anxious on the passenger seat.

“Everything okay?” he wonders softly.

“Oh? Yeah, yeah, I’m just worried Juwon’s teacher will break the news to me that Juwon failed his math test again.”

“Oh,” Jungkook says. What else could he say?

“It turns out good tutors are hard to find. Juwon also doesn’t want to improve. He’s in that phase where he doesn't understand yet that studying is important.”

“Hm yeah, I remember my sister being like that.”

“You have a sister?”

“Yes. She’s almost a decade younger. Eight years to be exact.”

“So she’s twenty-six?” Jimin asks. 

“You remembered my age,” Jungkook points out, this random detail pleasing him.

“I mean, I doubt anyone would just forget something like this,” Jimin retorts, looking away. “Anyway, I’ll go get Juwon.”

“Okay, let me escort you,” Jungkook announces, reaching for the door.

Jimin freezes next to him. “You don’t have to. Driving me was already enough.”

“I just want to say hello to Juwon. It’d be kind of rude not to.”

This makes Jimin reconsider. “Well, I suppose it would give Juwon the opportunity to personally thank you for taking care of him that one time.”

“Yes, well, it was no hassle, as I said. He doesn’t have to thank me.”

“It shouldn’t be taken for granted. Juwon needs to learn gratitude,” Jimin says decidedly, opening the door. “Okay, be prepared for lots of high-pitched screaming.”

“It’s not my first rodeo,” Jungkook shoots back sassily, getting out of his car.

He lets Jimin walk ahead, lingering closely behind him. The omega walks fast, knowing his way around the school’s ground better than him. 

Jungkook also checks the area for Juwon’s bunny teeth and cute ears, but can’t spot him anywhere among the million pups running around, their parents right after them. His gaze goes towards the trees, thinking he’ll find Juwon in them.

Jimin has the same idea. “Where is he… Usually he climbs the tree, but he’s not there...”

“Maybe he’s inside?” Jungkook prompts, turning his gaze to the school itself. 

The building is huge. Jungkook can’t remember what his elementary school looked like, only that it was smaller, more intimate. But this one is in Seoul, a bustling metropolis. 

“Jimin-ssi?” a female voice says with wonder.

“Oh, Seongsaeng-nim,” Jimin calls out, walking towards the same teacher that Jungkook briefly talked to when he picked Juwon up last time.

At a safe distance again, Jungkook follows.

For some reason, the teacher seems confused by their presence. At first, Jungkook believes it’s due to him being here, but then he realizes he’s wrong. Very wrong.

“Did you forget something?” the teacher asks. “Oh, you came with… What was the name again?”

“Oh, it’s Jungkook,” Jungkook says, stepping forward. 

“Ah, right, yes. I remember. Jungkook-ssi.” She gives him an interested look, eyes sweeping over his figure.

Jimin puts himself in front of Jungkook, his frame too tiny to really block Jungkook from the teacher’s view. “What did you say just now? I think I didn’t get the question right.”

“Oh, I was just wondering if Juwon forgot something and you’re here to pick it up. Did he leave a piece of clothing like last week?”

Jimin begins to frown. He crosses his arms over his chest, also looking back at Jungkook to throw him a look that reads, What’s she getting at?

“I…don’t know if he forgot something. I haven’t seen him yet,” Jimin replies languidly.

“What do you mean?” Now she looks incredibly confused.

Jimin blinks at her. “No, what do you mean?”

“Juwon was picked up around twenty minutes ago,” she says. “Right when class ended.”

At first, Jimin lets out a laugh. “I told Taehyung to stay home, that alpha…”

“No,” the teacher says, and that’s when things go downhill, “it wasn’t Taehyung-ssi.”

“Wh-what?” Jimin stutters, taken aback by this turn of events.

Something bad dawns on Jungkook. His stomach almost churns. 

Still, he doesn’t expect the teacher to say, “It was his father. He said you knew. Was that not the truth?”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Generally speaking, Jungkook’s done a bunch of crazy things in life already. 

He did bungee jumping, founded a whole ass company, jumped from a plane because Yoongi dared him to, hired Juri as his assistant, has Seokjin as his best friend, once featured on one of Namjoon’s rap songs (although the public doesn’t know this), let himself get sucked off in a garden by the most beautiful omega ever…

But he’s never had to calm down a hyperventilating omega before that wasn’t his mother. 

After the teacher told Jimin Juwon’s father picked the pup up, Jungkook of course put two and two together. 

His father—aka Juwon’s other parent, whom for as long as he’s known Jimin (and Juwon) has not made an appearance yet. He didn’t think he was even in the picture based on the things Jimin revealed to him. 

And Jimin, as cold as winter, said, “Don’t ever let him pick Juwon up again.”

The teacher’s face drained of all color, and so did Jungkook’s. Especially when Jimin turned around, brushed past him, and stormed off. He walked robotically, his bag almost slipping from his shoulder. 

Thankfully, the omega didn’t go far—only around the next corner to lean against a brick wall and, well, hyperventilate.

If the situation was any different, and if Jimin’s distressed scent wasn’t invading Jungkook’s senses, breaking through the blockers, all rain and acerbic, he’d not be grabbing Jimin’s shoulders, turning the omega towards him to look at his tear-stained face.

They appeared quickly, the tears. One minute, Jimin was fine, the next he wasn’t. The composure he always seems to keep, and which only makes Jungkook feel even more drawn to him, is cracking. 

“Jimin,” Jungkook says darkly, brows furrowed, “breathe for me.”

The omega is shaking his head, poorly hiding his face behind his hands. “I’m– I’m good, I just– I need a second to gather my thoughts– I don’t want you to see this–”

“Hey, look at me,” Jungkook commands. 

Reluctantly, Jimin does. “I– It’s the car and then this and-"

“Take a deep breath,” Jungkook goes on softly but assertively. “You need to breathe, omega.”

Jimin does as he’s told, his breathing shaky and unsure. But his chest rises, and his eyes look less disoriented.

“Another one,” Jungkook demands. 

Jimin breathes in again, slowly but surely, looking right into Jungkook’s eyes.

“You’re doing well,” Jungkook praises, his voice low and velvety. “That’s really good. Just focus on my voice and breathe in a couple more times. As deep as you can. Yeah, that’s right…”

Jungkook removes one of his hands from Jimin’s shoulders, using it to wipe away a tear that escapes from the corner of Jimin’s eye. 

Jimin’s breath hitches for a second, his lashes fluttering. 

“Sorry,” Jungkook mumbles, pulling back with a gulp. “I didn’t–”

“How did you know how to calm me down?” Jimin blurts, voice slightly husky.

“I… My mom,” he reveals, deciding honesty is perhaps not such a bad thing. “She used to have nervous breakdowns. Anxiety attacks.”

“I’m so sorry,” Jimin whispers, brows drawn together. “Is she okay now?”

“Yes, she’s splendid,” Jungkook confirms.

“Probably because she has you,” Jimin says, his eyes flickering over Jungkook’s face for a moment. Then he catches himself, blinking as he averts his gaze. He wipes the last tears away and clears his throat. “Sorry you had to see this.”

“Don’t apologize to me all the time.”

“But there’s always something to apologize for,” Jimin whispers. “I– Goddess, it’s asinine, really. What are you doing to me?”

“Will you tell me why you…reacted this way?”

“Juwon’s alpha father, my ex, he’s…” Jimin exhales, the words being hard to say. “He didn’t inform me about being back in town.”

“You had no idea he’d pick Juwon up?”

“None. I– I need to call him and find out where he’s taken Juwon… I don’t even know if his old phone number is still the right one.” Anger coils in Jimin’s eyes now that the first shock has dissipated. “That damn asshole. He hasn’t seen Juwon in three years and now he just shows back up and does Goddess knows what with my pup…”

Jungkook isn’t sure what the relationship between Jimin and his ex is really like, but what he can guess from this glimpse is that the ex is a dick, and that Jungkook already hates him. Jimin deserves better. 

“Anyway,” Jimin says, putting on a fake cheerful tone, “I don’t want to keep you any longer. You said you have an appointment. You should…go.”

Immediately, Jungkook debates to reveal that the appointment was a lie. But that would mean he’d expose himself for having simply wanted to do a nice thing for Jimin. Which…wouldn’t be bad if he and Jimin had a slightly different relationship.

“I could cancel,” Jungkook says instead. “It wasn’t anything work-related.”

“You…” Jimin’s eyes are so big, Jungkook could get lost in them. 

“I mean, it’s– You have no car at your disposal right now. So I… I should drive you.” The argument feels weak, but what can Jungkook do?

He can sense Jimin’s hesitation. It’s always there when it comes to Jungkook, and the alpha can’t blame him. Jungkook doesn’t want to force himself on the omega, but there is an intrinsic urge inside him that tells him he at least needs to offer his help. That’s all he wants. 

There is no ulterior motive either. Jungkook finds himself caring for Jimin, even if their relationship will never move past this weird employer-employee stage. 

“Let me… Let me see if I can reach him,” Jimin mumbles, grabbing his phone from his bag. He exhales again, pressing around on the screen. He turns away as he presses the device to his ear.

Jungkook doesn’t mean to eavesdrop so he pretends to not care and looks away, running a hand over his slicked back hair. He gulps, his own throat feeling dry from the unforeseen complications. 

“Where is Juwon?” Jimin says into the phone, his ex apparently having picked up the call. Jimin’s voice is devoid of any emotions, a complete contrast to the dried tears that stain his slightly flushed cheeks. 

Jungkook’s brows pinch together as he steals more glances at the omega.

“No, I’m not in the mood for jokes,” Jimin spits. “You went against your word. Tell me where you took my son.”

Jimin scoffs, shaking his head in incredulity. “Fine. I’ll be there shortly. If you’re not there with him, I’m going to call the cops. I mean it.”

He hangs up, aggressively pressing the screen with his finger. “Fucking asshole,” he mutters under his breath.

Jungkook waits for Jimin to reveal on his own what the call’s result is. Patiently, he lets the omega calm down, observing him rolling his shoulders backwards, the tension having settled deep inside him. “He’s at some playground with Juwon,” Jimin says. “He said he’ll send me the location. I told him I’d come now to get Juwon.”

“Good. I’ll drive you.”

Jimin lifts his gaze, the uncertainty returning. “Is it selfish of me to let you do this?”

“I wouldn’t call myself an altruist. Far from it. I think it’s just basic human decency to help out in a case like this, no?”

“I don’t know what world you live in, but in my world alphas don’t just…do things out of goodwill.”

Jungkook doesn’t know what to say to that. Jimin isn’t wrong; alphas are pigs. And alphas probably throw themselves at Jimin left and right. So Jungkook only has one way of convincing Jimin that he has no ulterior motive. “I care about you,” he reveals, the words spilling from his lips clumsily. “I– Because you’ve become Juri’s friend. She’d kill me if I’d just let you deal with this on your own. She’s like a little sister to me, you have to know.”

Jimin’s gaze is unreadable. “I see… That is very kind of you.”

“It’s just… the bare minimum,” Jungkook shrugs awkwardly. “Anyway. Should we get going?”

Jimin nods slowly. “Yeah.”

Only when Jungkook turns around to see in what direction they have to go to get back to his car does he realize some of the parents are looking at them. He shoots them glares back that basically tell them to look the fuck away.

“You don’t have to glare at them,” Jimin says with a humorless laugh.

“What?” Jungkook blurts, not having realized Jimin noticed.

“They always stare. They’re like vultures. Don’t bother with them.”

“Why do they stare?” he scowls.

“Because I’m a single parent to a pup.”

Jungkook lets out a scoff. “They still judge you for that? I thought we moved past that as a society.”

Jimin halts for a second, a shadow falling over his face. “Everyone does, not just them. That’s life.”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Jungkook sucks at comforting. At basic human conversation. He sucks at making others feel comfortable around him. 

So the only thing he can think of to make the fifteen minute ride to the playground a bit more endurable for Jimin is to put on music— again. It gives him heart palpitations, but he puts on the playlist that only consists of songs he thinks Jimin enjoys and the song Jimin recommended to him. Somehow, it feels like exposing himself. A not so subtle confession to listening to the band Jimin recommended and the song Jimin recommended. 

He isn’t sure if Jimin notices though. The omega stares out of the window or at his phone, as if he is waiting for a text. He doesn’t speak a single word. 

Jungkook is secretly glad.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

The playground is quite crowded. Makes sense, it’s afternoon and families come out to play. The weather is relatively good for November too, the sun peeking through the clouds, making everyone desperate to soak up the last sun rays of the year. 

Jungkook long forgot how to properly appreciate good weather. Usually, he only sees it from inside some office, plane, or conference room. The most sun he gets is on his one-week vacations to resorts. It’s a wonder he doesn’t have a vitamin deficiency. Well, Juri does make him take supplements…

“You can wait inside the car,” Jimin says curtly as Jungkook parks the car. “Actually, you can leave. I really don’t want to inconvenience you any longer."

“Have you seen Juwon yet?” Jungkook asks back.

“I–” Jimin looks out of the window, eyes scanning the playground.

“Let’s look for them first. Then I’ll go.”

“But–”

“I insist,” Jungkook says. “What if they’re not here and you have to wait for a taxi or public transportation to take you to the right location?”

Jimin considers this. Then, “Alright.”

Together, they exit Jungkook’s car. The screaming of pups and the chatter of parents and nannies reaches Jungkook’s ears, just as it did at the elementary school. He can’t remember the last time he spent so much time close to pups. No one in his social circle has kids, and for the longest time he thought no one ever would. Well, maybe Namjoon and Megan at some point, but they are focused on their careers. Or his sister, but she’s only in her mid-twenties, so she’s still too young in his eyes to pursue a family. What would he do if she brought a partner home suddenly?

Now that he’s thinking about it… She also never talked about a relationship. At least not when she still lived in Korea. What exactly she’s doing in the states is hidden to Jungkook. Maybe she has a partner? Maybe she’s dating? Maybe she just can’t tell Jungkook because he’s too overprotective? Annoying? Too much of an emotionally neglectful brother?

Guilt crushes into him, momentarily distracting him from the mission at hand. 

Fortunately, Jimin finds Juwon. “I think I see him,” Jimin breathes, pointing at a bench. On it, Juwon is slurping on a juice carton, looking lonely.

He’s alone, Jungkook realizes immediately. Quickly, his eyes scan the area for an alpha that could be Juwon’s father. He doesn’t see anyone.

Jimin starts sprinting towards Juwon. Jungkook is on his heels in the next heartbeat, adrenaline pumping through his veins. He probably has no business being so worried about Juwon, but since he watched the pup once, he feels a distant sense of responsibility.

“Juwon-ah!” Jimin calls out frantically, running even faster.

Compared to Jimin, Juwon is as nonchalant as ever, merely raising a hand to wave at his father. 

Jimin drops to his knees in front of the bench, embracing his son. “Thank the Goddess, you’re okay,” Jimin breathes, hugging the young pup and kissing his head. 

“I’m waiting for ice cream,” Juwon announces, unperturbed. 

“What?” Jimin rasps.  

“Dad said he is getting us ice cream,” Juwon explains, looking at Jimin innocently.

Jimin is clearly trying to keep himself controlled. “Okay,” he tells Juwon. “That’s okay. When is he coming back?”

Juwon shrugs. “I think it’s been ten minutes.”

“He’s left you here alone for ten minutes already?!” 

“I’m seven,” Juwon says with some sass. “I can wait alone, appa.”

Jungkook, who has been watching the father and son interact from some distance, is getting more pissed off by the minute. How could Jimin’s ex just leave Juwon here unwatched? It’s a public playground, so anything could happen.

“Juwon-ah, baby, I know you’re responsible, but this–” Jimin bites back the words. “Juwon-ah, let’s go home.”

“But the ice cream!” Juwon exclaims with a whine.

“You can have ice cream at home. It’s too cold outside anyway.” Jimin grabs his hand, trying to make Juwon cooperate. 

“But I wanted to hang out with dad!” Juwon pouts, getting up from the bench against his will. His ears are red from the cold, and Jungkook wonders where the hell his school bag is. It’s definitely not lying anywhere closeby.

“Next time,” Jimin says with a sigh. He turns to Jungkook. “Thank you, I got it from here,” he says, sounding uncomfortable. 

“You sure?” Jungkook prods. “Should I drive you two home?”

“You don’t have a car seat. I’ll just take the bus or call a friend of mine.”

Jungkook doesn’t like this, but who is he to overstay his welcome? 

“Okay, get home safely,” Jungkook says soberly. 

“We will, don't worry,” Jimin retorts. “Juwon, say goodbye to Jungkook-ssi.”

Lazily and clearly not in the mood, Juwon waves at Jungkook. “Bye.”

Jungkook waves back, giving the pup a grin nonetheless. “Bye, little one.”

“You should smile more,” Jimin says suddenly. 

“Huh?”

“Goddess, sorry, that sounded quite chauvinistic, didn't it?” Jimin laughs. “I just… You don't really smile. You’re always…like stone. Goddess, I need to stop running my mouth.”

Open-mouthed, Jungkook stares at Jimin. “I…”

Jimin lets out an awkward laugh. “Anyway, thanks for driving me…once again. I really owe you.”

Jungkook is too dumbstruck to really react. He finds himself nodding, slowly distancing himself from Jimin and Juwon. He feels a pit in his stomach—a strange mix of worry, confusion and yearning. 

He's almost at his car when he looks back, and the pit in his stomach starts to writhe with intensity. 

An alpha is now standing with them, his back turned to Jungkook. He can only see the leather jacket he's wearing, the dark hair that is a little overgrown in the back. He knows, right away, that this is Jimin’s good-for-nothing ex who hasn’t seen Juwon in three years. The ice cream he's holding confirms it. The coldness in Jimin’s gaze does too. 

Unfortunately, Jungkook doesn't catch what they're saying to each other. It doesn't seem like they're screaming, but something inside his mind tells Jungkook to linger and observe. He doesn’t trust this strange alpha. 

So he watches Juwon stand next to Jimin's side, looking dejected. His lips are still in a perpetual pout and he’s holding Jimin’s hand firmly, like it’s a safety line.

Jimin is pointing at his ex, poking his finger into the alpha’s chest from what Jungkook can tell. 

The voice inside Jungkook’s mind becomes louder when Jimin’s ex’s hand wraps around the omega’s wrist and he seems to– Is he twisting it?!

Without realizing what he’s doing, Jungkook is already heading back, his steps fueled by instinctive compulsion. There’s no way he’ll just stay back and watch this from afar.

As he gets closer, he picks up bits and pieces from the conversation.

“Let go,” Jimin hisses, “we’re at a public playground–”

“And you’re acting like a stuck-up like you always do,” the alpha barks back, his voice making Jungkook feel disgusted. The disrespect in it has Jungkook’s eyes widening and the hairs on his arms standing up.

“I’m begging you, just stay away from me,” Jimin says now, his hand still in the alpha’s iron grip.

Suddenly—and this is what will eventually make Jungkook end up at a police station—the alpha pulls on Jimin’s wrist to get close up in his face. “A backstabbing bitch like you can’t tell me shit. Juwon is my son and you won’t–”

“Let go of him.”

Jimin’s head whips around first, recognizing Jungkook’s voice. Instead of relief, there is embarrassment in his eyes as they take Jungkook in. “Jungkook-ssi?” he breathes, looking caught.

Jungkook ignores Jimin for a moment, focusing on the asshole still touching him. “You heard what I said. Let go of him right this instant,” he commands, his voice steel. 

An incredulous laugh bubbles in the alpha’s throat. Jungkook is already internalizing the look of the guy’s face, those slanted eyes and tall nose will never leave his mind. “I’m having a conversation here. Look the other way, man.”

“He told you to let go of him,” Jungkook says icily, “and yet your filthy hand is still wrapped around his wrist.”

The tension rises. 

“I’m okay,” Jimin whispers, “please, it’s not a big deal–”

“Who the fuck are you?” The ex now spits, letting go of Jimin to take a step closer to Jungkook. He only reaches Jungkook’s chin, being almost a whole head shorter.

“It doesn’t matter who I am,” Jungkook says. “What matters is that you’re not respecting Jimin’s boundaries and I won’t just stand by and let you treat him like that.”

There’s a moment of silence. 

Juwon is now hiding behind Jimin’s legs, one hand still firmly secured in Jimin’s. 

“Do you know this clown?” the ex laughs incredulously, looking at Jimin. 

“I’d suggest you leave right now,” Jungkook says calmly. “Before this gets ugly. Yeah?”

“Who is this fucking clown, Jimin?” the ex demands. 

“He’s–” Jimin looks unsure if he should reveal the nature of their (professional!) relationship. 

Jungkook takes the initiative and steps between Jimin and the ex. “Stop asking useless questions and leave. I’m not going to repeat myself."

“Appa,” Juwon whispers, “people are watching…”

“So what now, Jimin? This fucking clown in some fake Armani-suit is my replacement?” The ex laughs callously. “That’s what this is? You had to whore yourself out to some wannabe rich–”

“Watch your fucking mouth,” Jimin spits at his ex. “You don’t get to talk to me like this anymore.”

“Juwon,” the ex addresses the pup, “is this your appa’s new alpha? Is he trying to–”

“Stop talking to him,” Jungkook interjects. He takes a step towards the alpha, blocking the view of Jimin and Juwon. “You’re being very annoying right now. If you don’t want to further cause a scene, you should leave.”

“Get out of my way,” the ex threatens.

“I think not.”

“You’re not speaking for him. I know alphas like you who think that he’s some sort of special omega, all sophisticated and pretty. You think he’ll look pretty hanging off your arm, huh? In reality, he’s a backstabbing whore and he’ll steal your child and throw you out to the streets. That’s the type of omega he is.”

The words shock Jungkook. Not because he believes the piece of shit in front of him, but because he can hear Jimin suck in a sharp breath behind him, and he knows people are watching. He knows others heard this alpha’s attempt at publicly humiliating Jimin.

It kills Jungkook. It kills him that alphas like this exist and think they can speak in such a way to omegas. To Jimin.

The alpha aggressively pushes at Jungkook’s chest, a fruitless attempt at making Jungkook move. “So get out of my way, asslicker–”

Jungkook blinks. He swears it’s the only thing he does, but in the next moment his fist is suddenly connected to the alpha’s jaw and his knuckles burst open.

In hindsight, Jungkook knows he let himself be provoked, but it was worth it. Despite himself trying to not be like other brainless alphas, punching this idiot makes him exactly the same. 

Still, seeing that idiot writhing on the ground like a little bitch is enough satisfaction at that moment.

“You,” a deep voice suddenly says, “hands over your head. You're coming with us.”

Things happen very fast after that.

Jungkook’s head turns around and he wonders how he ended up in this situation. 

Unfortunately for Jungkook, some of the gawking witnesses have apparently called the police, who must have arrived exactly when Jungkook punched the asshole, the cops seeing the law-breaking behavior with their own eyes. 

And so Jungkook has no choice but to let the cop grab him and drag him to a police car a second later, hands raised in surrender.  

Jimin follows him with his gaze, looking absolutely rattled. “Jungkook-ssi?!”

“Appa, why is the police taking Jungkook hyung?” Juwon’s voice reaches Jungkook’s ears.

“Yeah, arrest that asshole!” the ex yells from the ground, but unfortunately for him, the other police officer pulls him up and drags him towards another police car next to the one Jungkook is being taken to. 

“Hey, what are you doing?!” the ex cries, trying to break free.

“You caused a public disturbance,” the cop explains diplomatically. “At a playground, no less. So we’ll resolve that at the station.”

The car door is being closed on Jungkook a moment later, cutting off the sound to the outer world. He can see Jimin discussing with a third cop, but he doesn’t catch their words.

Internally, he curses himself. He fucked up. Monumentally so.

The cop who arrested him sits down on the driver’s seat, looking over his shoulder. He shrugs. “We’ll talk at the station.”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

“So you have no personal connection to Kim Changwon-ssi?” the officer asks lazily, taking Jungkook’s statement.

“No, this was our first time meeting,” Jungkook says, letting out a sigh.

The ride to the station was plenty awkward. In his head, he knew he just gave himself the death sentence. If there was even a sliver of hope that Jimin could perhaps see more in Jungkook than the workaholic boss, then Jungkook just erased all of it. 

How idiotic can you be? Punching your crush’s ex just because he got up in your face and proved to be some omegaphobic piece of shit?

The cop who arrested him was pretty chill about it, telling Jungkook he’ll just have to give a statement and then he could go. Well, at least Jungkook has now finally seen a police station from the inside. He’s been in quite a few courtrooms (usually to accompany Seokjin or Yoongi), but this is a first. It smells of coffee, thick pheromones, and, weirdly enough, of clementines. One of the cops seems to be peeling some in an adjacent room.

“I see,” the officer says. “Did Kim Changwon-ssi do anything to provoke you?”

“Yes,” Jungkook says, “he said a lot of hurtful words.”

“Okay, what did he say?”

Somehow, Jungkook expected his first encounter with the police to be more…exciting. “Well, he called my–” Okay, what term to use for Jimin… “He called an omega that was close by a whore, a backstabbing bitch, and he called me a clown and an asslicker. He was very omegaphobic.”

“You remembered all that?”

“Do people usually not?”

“Usually they are crying for a lawyer,” the cop says, looking at him with his head cocked to the side.

“You should write that down. That he was omegaphobic, I mean,” Jungkook reinforces.

“Actually, do I know you from somewhere?” The cop scowls at him, analyzing Jungkook’s face.

“I don’t think we’ve met,” Jungkook says. 

“Are you sure?”

“Pretty sure.”

“Well… Sorry, what was the name again? For the file?”

“Did you write down that Changwon-ssi–” Using his government name instead of fucking asshole physically pains Jungkook “–was being omegaphobic?”

“Yes,” the cop says, almost rolling his eyes. “Give me your name, please.”

“Oh, good. My name is–”

Jungkook doesn’t get far enough. He gets interrupted by a very familiar and very agitated voice. “You are interviewing my boss without a lawyer present?!”

Juri comes stalking towards the desk in her black high heels and a ponytail that aggressively swings from left to right.

Jungkook’s been in quite a few embarrassing situations with Juri. Like that one time she caught him in flagrante with a one-night-stand after having been his assistant for merely a week. Or that one time his mother showed her childhood pictures of him. Or that one time Jungkook’s pants ripped while walking up the stairs in front of her. Needless to say, they only ripped because he had been diligently working on his glutes in the gym.

To Jungkook’s absolute horror, Juri’s entourage consists of none other than Yoongi and—so the Goddess help him—Jimin, and Juwon. 

Of course his eyes land and remain on Jimin, the two of them making mutually shocked eye contact. For a second, Jungkook believes Jimin is here to cuss him out. But then he says to the cop, “Please don’t press charges, it’s all my fault. I can explain the entire situation.”

“Hey,” Juwon says coolly, showing Jungkook a peace sign.

Stunned, Jungkook can only gawk.

“Uhm,” the cop says, “we haven’t talked to the other side yet. Kim Changwon-ssi is being a little uncooperative.”

“I am this alpha’s lawyer,” Yoongi announces, getting a card from the inside of his blazer. “You may release Jeon Jungkook-ssi right this instant.”

“Jeon Jungkook…” It seems to dawn on the cop who Jungkook is. He blinks rapidly, blurting, “the chaebol?”

Jungkook doesn’t like being called a chaebol. That would indicate nepotism. “I’m not a chaebol–”

“Yes,” Juri says sweetly, leaning over the desk. “So, before I make a call to the commissioner and have you fired, you will release my boss, the chaebol.”

“Juri,” Jungkook chides, giving her a pointed look. Towards the cop he says, “Hey, so that won’t happen–”

Yoongi cuts in. “Is the opposition pressing charges? Did you take my client’s statement?”

“I was about to…”

“Well, he can surely submit something from the comforts of his home, hm?”

“Uh…”

“I think that’s it then, yeah?” Yoongi says, going all lawyer on the poor cop. 

It works. Of course it does. You don’t mess with the rich as a low-ranking cop. Jungkook feels so bad for the guy, he apologizes profusely while he gets uncuffed. “I am so sorry,” he insists, “I can stay and give my statement–”

“No, we’re going home,” Juri commands. Jungkook is more terrified of her than the law, so he ends up complying.

Five minutes later, standing outside the police station, the awkwardness level has risen an unbearable amount. Jungkook can’t really explain to himself how this day managed to go downhill, but this must really be a new low.

“Do you know how interesting it was to get a call from Jimin to hear that you were arrested?” Juri laughs humorlessly. “I was like, who? Are we talking about the same Jeon Jungkook? Jeon Jungkook, CEO of GoldenAegis Technologies? That idiot?"

“Juri–” 

“No, no, it was quite enlightening, really. I arrive at the scene with the second pair of keys for your car—feel free to thank me for that—and we all drive here, I call Yoongi-ssi–”

“For the record,” Yoongi chimes in, “I’m only here because I wanted to see with my own two eyes that your ass got arrested.”

“So I call Yoongi-ssi and he meets us here at the station, right,” Juri goes on, her voice rising, “and I am eternally glad no paparazzi caught wind of this yet. Can you imagine the mess we’d be in?”

Jungkook has only been listening with half an ear. Most of his attention is on Jimin, who’s been looking rather amused by Juri’s overreactions. Juwon is playing with a Lego dragon, making growling noises.

“Yeah,” Jungkook mutters, eyes glued on Jimin like a fool.

“You can be glad Jimin had the foresight to call me,” Juri says dramatically. “Although he refused to tell me why exactly you were there and punched his ex?”

“I…” Jungkook searches for help, unsure if Jimin is comfortable with sharing how their professional relationship has sort of blurred at the edges.

“Jungkook-ssi was so kind to drive me to my son’s school and then to the playground. I already told you my car broke down, Juri, remember?” Jimin says softly.

Juri halts, heads cocked to the side. “Ah, right, sorry, slipped my mind.”

“Goddess, this is priceless. I need to call Seokjin,” Yoongi laughs.

“Hyung,” Jungkook whines, running a hand over his face.

“You’ll hear from him later,” Yoongi promises. “I gotta head out now to meet an actual client, but I can’t wait to hear updates about this interesting little situation here. Jimin-ssi, it was lovely meeting you.”

Jungkook knows Seokjin will go up in flames once he hears about this. 

“Likewise, Yoongi-ssi,” Jimin says, bowing. “Again, very sorry for the trouble.”

Yoongi waves him off. “It was incredibly entertaining, so don’t apologize.”

“I have to head back to the office and deal with this mess. I need to call some of my sources and make sure this didn’t leak,” Juri announces. He turns to Yoongi. “You,” she says, “will you drive me back to the headquarters.”

“Sure,” Yoongi says with a charming smile.

“And you,” Juri says, pointing at Jungkook, “you better go home and wallow in shame while I clean up the mess.”

“I will. I will wallow in shame like never before.

Juri tsks. “Since you punched that idiot anyway, you could have also punched him harder.”

“My bad,” Jungkook says, “I wasn’t really thinking, you see–”

“Really, it’s so senseless of you to not have punched harder–”

“Alright, alright,” Yoongi cuts in. “Juri-ssi, why don’t we all calm down and let this go? Jungkook is clearly already atoning for his lack of good punching skills.”

Juri looks skeptical, but goes, “Fine.” Her eyes blaze. “Alphas. What a waste of space.”

The two of them leave—well, Juri storms off and Yoongi gives Jungkook a suggestive wink—and then Jungkook is alone with Jimin and Juwon again. 

He clears his throat, a million apologies ready to slip out. “I am–”

“Are you okay?” Jimin asks, brows furrowed all of a sudden. “You have to know I’m terribly sorry for all this. I don’t know how it escalated so suddenly. I should have just left with Juwon, but I wanted to confront Changwon and…”

“You’re not angry?” 

“Well, punching him was stupid, but… I’m managing my anger.”

“Jimi– Jimin-ssi, you have to know how embarrassed I am. I swear, I’m not some violent alpha. I’ve never punched someone in my life before, so I don’t know what was wrong with me at that moment. The things he said– I couldn’t just let him get away with it.”

“You had to defend my honor?” Jimin asks with a smile.

“No, I– He just pissed me off.”

“He’s good at that,” Jimin agrees. “He’s pissed off a lot of people already.”

“Well,” Jungkook says, swallowing. He’s not sure what else to say. It seems like he never has the right words when it comes to Jimin. He feels like a socially awkward teenager again. 

“Appa, can we go home? I want to listen to Go Pack,” Juwon laments, tugging on Jimin’s pants. 

Jimin sighs. “Yeah, baby, let me check the bus–”

“Can Juwon survive a drive without a car seat?” Jungkook wonders, cutting in.

“I mean…that’s how we got here. But it was an emergency. I had to bail you out and Juri was driving…” Jimin looks conflicted.

“Let me drive you. As a way to undo all the troubles I caused today by punching your ex.”

“I thought you did Taekwondo, hyung,” Juwon points out with a scowl. “Can’t you fight?”

“Look, Juwon,” Jungkook says, kneeling to be on Juwon’s eye level. “I didn’t mean to punch your dad. He said something that made me angry and–”

“I don’t like him. He was really mean to appa. I just…” Juwon’s cheeks flush and he looks remorseful. “I was curious so I went with him. But I will never go with him again.”

“Juwon-ah, it’s okay,” Jimin says softly.

Jungkook has a lot of words sitting on his tongue. Things like, even if he sucks, he is your dad, after all. Or, yeah, don’t look up to a dick like him. He keeps all of them to himself though, not being in any position to give the pup advice. 

“Jimin-ssi, if it’s okay with you, I’d have no problem taking you home.”

“Juwon is indeed almost tall enough to sit alone… Maybe a few centimeters missing. For one drive, it should be okay,” Jimin caves, giving Jungkook a small thankful smile. 

“Good,” Jungkook says. 

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

The first thing Jungkook does when everyone is settled inside his car is turn on Go Pack for Juwon. 

“Go Pack!” the pup cheers.

Jungkook turns around. “Thought you’d want to listen to it, yeah?”

“Wait,” Jimin says, “did you just buy that?”

“Oh no, I bought it last time. When I picked him up,” Jungkook tells him.

Jimin’s face falls. “You really paid the subscription for Go Pack?” He seems baffled for some reason.

“I mean,” Jungkook says with a nervous laugh as the soundtrack starts playing. 

In the back, Juwon is singing along loudly.

“It’s expensive!” Jimin exclaims, outraged.

“He wanted to listen to it, so I… Should I not have done that?”

“You really are filthy rich, aren’t you?”

“You figured that based on me buying a subscription for a pup audiobook?”

“Well, yes!” Jimin groans. “Everyone else would think twice about it. Or thrice, even.”

Jungkook gives Jimin a smug grin. He can’t suppress it. 

“Oh, don’t give me that look!” Jimin laughs, playfully slapping Jungkook’s biceps. 

Jungkook grins harder. Not because Jimin is perhaps a little impressed with him but because Jimin seems happier again. 

“Are you feeling better?” he asks the omega quietly, not having started the car yet.

The world comes to a halt as Jimin’s expression softens. Jungkook gets lost in it. “Yes,” Jimin says, “I’m okay.”

“Good,” Jungkook smiles, putting in as much warmth into it as possible. 

“You’re not mad I told you to smile more, are you?” Jimin whispers. “It just slipped out.”

“I have a reputation to uphold. I can’t smile.”

“You’re literally smiling right now,” Jimin points out, the corners of his mouth quirking up.

“Well,” Jungkook shrugs nonchalantly. “Perhaps I like smiling around you.”

Jimin’s eyelashes flutter. He averts his gaze, biting down on his lip. 

Jungkook starts the car with a smirk, humming along to the Go Pack song playing. 

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

The ride to Jimin’s place goes smoothly. Jungkook parks at the same spot as the last time. 

“Juwon fell asleep,” Jimin notes, one hand over his lips as he turns around to look at Juwon. “Goddess, he’s snoring, I think.”

Jungkook lets out a soft snort, but he feels sorry. “The day was pretty tumultuous. Which was mainly my fault. I’m sorry."

“It’s okay. I told you I’m not mad,” Jimin assures. “Let me get Juwon real quick.”

He leaves the car, Jungkook following suit.

Jimin opens the door to the backseat, laughing softly at the sleeping pup. He then unfastens Juwon’s seat belt, attempting to lift the pup out of the seat. He groans, grimacing in pain as he heaves him out. “Goddess, when has he become so heavy…”

Jungkook watches him for a second. Jimin sways, clearly not used to carrying the pup anymore. 

“Jimin,” Jungkook begins.

“My– My bag– Could you give it to me–”

Instead of giving Jimin his bag which he dropped to the ground, Jungkook grabs the pup out of Jimin’s arms. “Let me carry him upstairs for you.”

“We– I have an elevator,” Jimin prompts. 

“Let me carry him up the elevator for you so he won’t wake up.”

“You sure?”

“Lead the way,” Jungkook demands, adjusting Juwon in his grip. The pup lets out a soft noise, his grip tightening around Jungkook’s neck. He snuggles closer, and Jungkook’s heart warms up to a thousand degrees. He’s never held a pup in his arms before, especially not a big one like Juwon. He’s definitely not light anymore at seven years.

“Okay,” Jimin mumbles. Hesitantly, he goes ahead, leading the way as Jungkook requested.

It’s not even on Jungkook’s mind that he’s about to see Jimin’s apartment until they are at the front door, Juwon still softly snoring on Jungkook’s shoulder.

Jimin locks up, holding the door open. “It’s the second door on the left,” he tells Jungkook. “You can just lie him down on his bed.”

“My shoes,” Jungkook mutters quietly, slipping them off even though Jimin protests.

“Ah, don’t bother–”

“Done,” Jungkook whispers.

“Okay, I’ll open the door,” Jimin says, rushing forward.

Jungkook is barely paying attention to his surroundings. All he can focus on is the pup in his arms, the tiny hands clawing at the fabric of Jungkook’s suit.

He has to suppress a curse, however, when he steps on something inside Juwon’s dimly lit room. A piece of Lego he assumes. 

“Sorry, there’s stuff lying around,” Jimin says, switching on the nightstand lamp. 

“Yeah,” Jungkook says tightly, his foot hurting, “I noticed.”

Juwon’s sheets are dino-themed. He has a bunch of plushies inside and a CD-player is sitting on his nightstand, Go Pack CDs stacked next to it. 

Softly, Jungkook lowers Juwon onto the narrow bed. His knees dig into the carpet, and he has to pry Juwon’s hands from his blazer, the pup protesting in his sleep. “Sorry, buddy,” Jungkook murmurs, making sure to tuck Juwon in too once he’s lying in bed. 

Meanwhile, the theme song of Go Pack, which Jungkook still remembers from the car ride with the pup, starts playing. Jimin turned it on. 

Jugkook stands up, carding through his hair, looking down at the peacefully sleeping pup. 

Just when he thinks they were successful, Juwon’s eyes fly open. “Appa?”

“I– I’ll wait outside,” Jungkook announces self-consciously, walking backwards out the door.

His heart is beating so hard, he has to press a hand over it and lean against the nearest wall to get a hold of it. Today is a fever dream, beginning to end. 

He’s still shallowly panting when Jimin comes out of the door again, softly closing it behind him. He stands in front of it for a moment, making eye contact with Jungkook.

“I’ll put on my shoes–”

Wordlessly, Jimin snatches his wrist, inspecting the burst open knuckles, dried blood on it. 

“It’s nothing,” Jungkook says, attempting to pull his hand back.

“Nuh-uh.” Jimin tugs him forward. “I’m not letting you walk around with an open wound like this.”

Jungkook stumbles forward and lets Jimin drag him through the hallway into an open living room. His scent is everywhere, mingled with Juwon’s. The omega pushes Jungkook down on a chair at the dining table, muttering, “Wait here.”

Jungkook is an obedient alpha, so he doesn’t move an inch. His brain short-circuits too as he sits there, staring around, taking in the idiosyncrasies of Jimin’s apartment. 

He’s in every corner, present in every furniture, decoration and clutter. It’s tidy, neat, but someone clearly lives here. Someone uses that record player in the corner, someone has forgotten to replace the dried flowers in a vase on the coffee table, and someone is reading three books at once, all of them lying around on some surface. 

Someone clearly had coffee this morning, the mug half-empty on the table in front of Jungkook. Someone disassembled his Lego figure, and someone opened a bunch of letters recently, the sides torn open. 

When Jimin returns, carrying a whole box of bandages, ointments, and other things, Jungkook knows he must look like a deer caught in headlights. 

“Oh Goddess,” Jimin brings out, “Juwon smeared saliva all over your shoulder. The suit…”

Slowly, Jungkook’s eyes lower themselves onto the damp fabric.

“I’ll pay for dry cleaning,” Jimin promises. “Or– Can it be washed in normal laundry? Come on, take it off, I’ll throw it in the wash right now.”

Usually, Jungkook dry cleans all his suits, but he’s too dumbstruck to protest. He lets Jimin take the blazer off of him and his gaze follows the omega as he rushes out of the room, returning a few moments later. “I’m going to return it once it’s washed!”

“Uh-huh,” is all Jungkook gets out.

“Give me your hand,” Jimin commands then, sitting down in front of him. 

In a trance, Jungkook lifts his wounded hand, and Jimin snatches the wrist mid-air again, tugging on it which propels Jungkook forward.

Jimin sucks in a sharp breath. “Goddess in the sky, this looks bad.” He inspects Jungkook’s knuckles so closely, his breath hits Jungkook’s skin. His hand is cold as it holds Jungkook, tugging on each finger, turning it around multiple times.

Jungkook isn’t sure if his heart flutters or if it outright flies away. He can’t really breathe.

“I used to be a nurse in training, so I’m good at this stuff,” Jimin tells him, taking some sort of spray from his box. “This might sting.”

The spray is definitely disinfectant, but Jungkook doesn’t feel a thing. 

“I owe you some explanations,” Jimin sighs. “Changwon… He’s a complete asshole. I really didn’t mean to drag you into my drama.”

“I punched him on my own accord.”

“Well, as much as I enjoyed seeing him cry about it, it seriously could have gone wrong! What if he actually presses charges? What if you had broken your hand?!” 

“I’m rich,” Jungkook provides blankly.

“But he has witnesses–”

“I’m rich enough to know the commissioner,” Jungkook says. 

“Juri wasn’t lying about that?”

“No, I have dinner at his house once a year or so. Nice guy,” Jungkook nods, remembering Commissioner Kang’s wife’s amazing cooking skills. 

“So you would have bribed your way out of it?”

“A phone call would have been enough. Don’t think that’s a bribe yet, yeah?”

“That is…” Jimin shakes his head. “Do you have a secret criminal side?"

“No, this was my first time in a police station.”

“In your thirty-four years on this earth..."

“You remembered my age again,” Jungkook smirks, very pleased. So pleased, his belly does a little, addictive swoop. Oh Goddess, he remembers my age!

“It was really nice of you to play the songs I like during our drive, by the way,” Jimin says in a small voice.

“You noticed?” Jungkook croaks out.

“Of course, silly. I love them a lot. How did you know they were my favorite?”

“I just did,” Jungkook’s voice comes out breathy.

Their eyes meet across the table. 

“Did you like the song I recommended? You played that one too,” Jimin asks carefully.

“Yes.”

“Really?”

“I’ve been listening to it on repeat,” Jungkook confesses.

“So you enjoy soft songs?”

“I don’t know, maybe I like them because you recommended them,” Jungkook says deeply.

Jimin pauses while applying a bandage on Jungkook’s knuckles. But he doesn’t comment on it. Instead, the mood seems to shift once more. “The reason I’m not used to selfless kindness is the idiot whom you punched today,” Jimin says tightly. “I got with him right when I entered college.”

“First love?”

“I thought so,” Jimin says with a self-deprecating laugh. “I thought I was deeply in love. In hindsight, I think I wanted love so much, I took it from the first person who offered me some scraps.”

“Hm.”

“Things were okay for the first year,” Jimin says. “I turned nineteen and he turned twenty-two.”

“He’s older?”

“He was a senior when I got pregnant. Stupid, really. I thought it would never happen to me. Pregnancy seemed like an alien concept. Well, I was wrong of course. Naive.”

“I see,” Jungkook says softly. 

“He didn’t react well at first either,” Jimin laughs heartlessly. “I had to drop out, of course. He tried to make me get an abortion, but I couldn’t. I didn’t want to. I was already four months along anyway. It was too late.”

“Asshole,” Jungkook hisses under his breath. 

“Well, then he came around, begged me to forgive him and that he just panicked. Of course, naive lamb I was, I forgave him. I was in love, after all. And I knew my parents would whoop my ass. I thought if I could prove that we were in a serious relationship, they’d not scold me as much…”

Jungkook analyzes Jimin’s face, the way his brows pinch together and his lips move as he talks. Gently, he’s wrapping up Jungkook’s hand, mumbling, “Open your palm, please.”

Jungkook does as he’s told, eyes never straying from Jimin. 

“Of course my parents killed me. They told me to come back to Busan–”

“You’re from Busan?” Jungkook interrupts.

“Yes, we have that in common,” Jimin says with a tender laugh. 

“How did you know I’m also from Busan?”

“I…” 

The way Jimin’s cheeks take on color and he looks away furtively has Jungkook wondering, “Did you ask Juri about me?”

“No, she is not very talkative when it comes to you. She’s quite loyal,” Jimin says. “I…I looked you up online.”

“The tabloids?”

“They really only write insane stuff that is clearly made up,” Jimin says, exasperated suddenly. “I thought you were exaggerating, but then I read that you allegedly have four vacation houses on Jeju, two mansions in Seoul, and around fifty personnel.”

“Well,” Jungkook says, “I can do my own laundry if you were wondering. Also, I can cook.”

Jimin gives him a long stare.

“Okay,” Jungkook caves, crumbling, “I can’t cook, but I’m incredible at ironing clothes.”

“Hm,” Jimin says, “But really, who needs that many houses?”

“I did buy my mom a house on Jeju,” Jungkook reveals. “After that was leaked, they led a whole manhunt, trying to find other properties I bought.”

“Okay, so you’re rich, we know,” Jimin bemoans. “But them writing that you bought a tiger to keep it as a pet seriously made me roll my eyes.”

“Now that– that was really a lie,” Jungkook laughs, remembering the journalist who published the article trying to break into his house.

“Don’t they have better things to do? Why waste time writing such useless articles?”

“Lots of insane people in this world,” Jungkook sighs. 

“Yeah, my ex belongs right there with those crazy journalists.”

“Was he always this bad?”

“No, he became worse the further along I was…” Jimin gulps, his chest rising shakily. “We were living in a tiny apartment. He was trying to finish his degree and his parents had cut him off suddenly. They didn’t want me as their son’s partner. They never once visited Juwon since they found out about the pregnancy, nor after he was born.”

“You’re kidding…”

“They’re both doctors,” Jimin explains with a heartless laugh. “Changwon was supposed to go to med school. Well, then he developed a little drug problem that involved taking too many fucking pills, and I had to somehow juggle being in my last trimester, getting an education, making money, and handling him...”

“You were all alone?” Jungkook’s chest tightens, imagining a young Jimin, all alone with so much to shoulder.

“Yeah,” Jimin says, laughing dryly. “I had cut off my parents since I didn’t want to go back home. I worked at a diner, and I was applying for nursing school, thinking it would be a safer bet than staying in college. Taehyung was in Europe, traveling. He didn’t know about the pregnancy.”

“Why not?”

“He never liked Changwon. We fought a lot because Tae told me to break up with him long before I fell pregnant. I guess I was ashamed that he had been right all along and I didn’t listen. I was ashamed throughout the entire pregnancy. It’s why I didn’t reply to my parents calls, emails, texts. None of it. I lost all my friends too, because I was so hellbent on staying with Changwon and having Juwon. I burned a lot of bridges. I regret all of it. Well, except Juwon.”

“I’m sorry,” Jungkook whispers sincerely.

“Don’t be. It’s all in the past.” He smiles half-heartedly, releasing Jungkook’s wrist. “There, it’s all settled. Be careful with it for a few days. No gym and no more punching.”

“No gym?” Jungkook repeats, the corners of his lips jumping up in amusement. 

“Strict bedrest like Taehyung.”

“Didn’t he want to stay at your place?” Jungkook remembers, daring to take another look around the spacious room. No sign of the alpha except for a very faint alpha-like scent. 

“Well,” Jimin says, “he’s been weird since he broke his foot. I think he’s keeping a secret from me. He’s been staying somewhere else and I have no idea where…”

“Oh?”

“But he’s always been like that. A free spirit, you know,” Jimin says. “He’s also really smart, but normal jobs bore him so he jumps around a lot.”

“That’s cool,” Jungkook says sincerely. “I wish I was that relaxed."

“Haha, me too. I'm always stressed. It’s giving me hair loss.”

“Juri gives me hair loss too. I’m too scared to face her tomorrow.”

“I hope it was okay that I called her,” Jimin gulps. “I just didn’t know what to do, so I– I called her.”

“Of course,” Jungkook reassures him. “You didn’t do anything wrong.”

“Your lawyer friend looked really familiar, by the way,” Jimin notes thoughtfully. 

“Maybe you’ve seen him on TV? He does a lot of celebrity cases.”

“Oh, maybe, but I could swear I’ve seen him somewhere else… Anyway, can I offer you something to drink or eat? To repay some debt?”

Usually, Jungkook would say yes. Yes to spending more time with Jimin. Yes to being in the omega’s space, but…

“I should probably go,” he says apologetically. “I’ve already overstayed my welcome.” Slowly, he gets up from the kitchen table. 

“Oh. Do you– Do you have to go back to work?”

“Probably.”

“How much do you work, really?”

Jungkook raises a brow. “That’s a secret between me and myself.”

“And Juri.”

“And Juri.”

They both snort. 

Jungkook really doesn’t know when he has smiled so much around a person ever. Jimin makes him want to take glue and somehow make his cheeks stuck in a perpetual grin.

Jungkook looks at the omega for a little too long, admiring the way Jimin’s eyes morph into crescents when he smiles. 

When Jimin catches him staring, Jungkook clears his throat. “I– I’m leaving.” He almost stumbles, but manages to walk towards the hallway.

Jimin follows quietly.

At the door, Jungkook slips into his shoes, feeling naked without his blazer. 

Jimin watches him, arms crossed over his chest. 

“Jimin,” Jungkook rasps, feeling awkward as he lingers on the threshold of Jimin’s apartment. 

“You always drop the honorifics,” Jimin points out, his voice husky.

“I can’t help it.”

“Why?”

“I don’t know. When I met you at that gala I didn’t expect to end up being your boss.”

“Trust me, me neither,” Jimin stifles a laugh. 

“Do you like Italian cuisine?” Jungkook blurts.

“Yeah, why?”

“If I said I’d like to take you out for dinner, just strictly hypothetically speaking, what would you say?”

“Don’t you have a girlfriend?” Jimin says, blinking in shock.

The perfect opportunity to clear up this wrong assumption. “Who said I have a girlfriend?”

“Uhm…” 

“No girlfriend. At least not that I know of.” Jungkook puts on a thoughtful face. “Did any of my employees gossip?”

“Juri mentioned something along the lines of– of a date. And then in the elevator you got a call and I heard this voice–”

“And you jumped to conclusions.”

“Well, it’s not like you corrected me until now!” Jimin exclaims in defense of himself.

“So you’ll go out with me?” Jungkook asks, a lop-sided grin sneaking onto his face.

“I thought we agreed to keep this professional…” His voice has gone quiet. Hesitant.

“Somehow, you make me want to abandon all HR guidelines ever,” Jungkook laments.

“I’m…” Jimin’s face morphs into the picture of anxiety Jungkook has seen occasional glimpses of. 

Before Jimin even speaks, Jungkook knows what is coming. He can read it in Jimin’s eyes—that instant recoil because things became too serious. 

“I’m not available…like that,” Jimin mumbles. “I… I’m…”

The rejection felt inevitable. Still, it stings. Despite his feelings, Jungkook nods, accepting it gracefully. “I know.”

“You…do?”

“I’m not that dense,” he laughs softly. “I can tell when someone…doesn’t reciprocate.”

Of course, there were moments (ignoring the Cigarette of Truth and the Blowjob of Enlightenment which marked the beginning of their relationship) where Jungkook thought Jimin might be…warming up to him in ways that could make him open to perhaps viewing Jungkook in a different light.

“Oh.” Jimin’s lips form an o-shape. 

“Well, the offer stands.”

“For what?” Jimin asks suspiciously.

“For Italian. Or sushi. I know a good sushi restaurant too.”

“But…I can’t date. I don’t date.”

“Believe it or not,” Jungkook says amusedly, “there’s something called being friends.”

Jimin stares. His eyes look like molton honey. He’s even more beautiful when he is rejecting Jungkook. “Okay, then I’ll think about it,” he says cautiously.

“Cool.”

“Cool?” Jimin echoes, a laugh escaping him.

“Yeah.” Jungkook grins. 

“You sound like Juwon,” Jimin complains. “He’s obsessed with saying cool in this dry, unimpressed voice and showing peace signs. So silly. I think he got it from other pups at school.”

“He’s a great pup,” Jungkook tells Jimin honestly. “You raised him well.” He leans against the doorframe, wanting to linger a moment longer. His heart was cracked in two, but it could be worse. 

“Thank you, I’m trying my best,” Jimin whispers, looking like he for once actually took the compliment.

“By the way, I’m pretty good at math. Although elementary school math is probably… a little too easy? Anyway, if you want a free tutor…”

“Is there something you’re not good at?”

Jungkook jokingly holds up his bandaged hand. “Punching idiotic alphas, apparently.”

“A friend of mine calls them alpha-holes. Fitting, huh?”

“I need to jot that down,” Jungkook declares, pretending to be searching for pen and paper in his pockets.

Jimin playfully slaps his chest, hitting his pec dead-on. “I correct myself; you’re even sillier than Juwon.”

“You know,” Jungkook says, unable to stop his cheeks from stretching into another smile, “despite ending up hand-cuffed, I had fun today.”

“You surprise me,” Jimin murmurs, eyes flickering over Jungkook’s face.

“You’ve said that about three times already, I think.”

“I mean it. You’re very surprising.”

“In a positive or negative sense?”

“I’m still trying to determine. Being so rich is a little off-putting. Also not being able to cook. Ah…"

Jungkook’s face falls. He might have to donate his wealth now. All of it. “But I can iron clothes. You heard that earlier, right?”

“And not being able to punch alphas correctly–”

“Didn’t you just say that I’m good at everything? Which I am. Seokjin can confirm that.”

Jimin looks away, biting his lips. “No comment.”

“Cool, then let me tutor Juwon.”

“How much do you take per hour?”

“If you have dinner with me at this Italian restaurant, I’ll do it for free.”

“Jungkook-ssi, I…"

“Just a dinner, Jimin,” Jungkook promises. “And maybe a cigarette,” he adds on second thought.

That draws a chuckle from Jimin. He shakes his head in incredulity. “I really do crave them every now and then.”

“Guilty pleasure. I get it.”

“Yeah…” Jimin lifts his gaze, their eyes locking. His lips part and then he seems to be outright grabbing into Jungkook’s chest with his words, twisting his heart in his palm, irrevocably claiming it as his own without even trying. “I…I don’t want to hurt you. I’m not– My heart isn’t ready for someone like you. I’m a bad person, Jungkook.”

“Jimin–”

He puts a finger on Jungkook’s lips, stopping him from finishing his sentence. “No, don’t say anything. I’ll plan your Christmas party, and, yes, I’ll let you tutor Juwon because I’m desperate and he doesn’t want to do it with me, and, yes, I’ll go eat at that restaurant with you because I freaking love Italian and because you’re funny, but… I just had to let you know because I don’t want you to get your hopes up. I don’t– I don’t want to exhaust your kindness. I don’t want to make a mistake. So, yes, we can be friends but…nothing more.”

There’s never been a moment in Jungkook’s life where he can distinctly remember falling in love. Perhaps because up until now, until this very moment, he never had been in love before.

But as he’s leaning against this goddessforsaken door frame and the omega of his dreams rejects him, he feels himself hopelessly fall down the abyss of love.

Somehow, it makes this bearable. Somehow, even though Jimin is clearly telling him there’s no chance for them, Jungkook feels the void in his chest, which had been there for longer than he had realized, fill up.

“You won’t hurt me,” he tells Jimin. “Trust me.”

Jimin nods weakly. “Good.”

“I promise,” Jungkook reinforces, desperate to get this across. Jimin doesn’t owe him anything. Jungkook’s the one with feelings, and although the origin of them had been a normal crush at first, and now actual emotions of infatuation and an intense sense of yearning, Jungkook doesn’t feel an ounce of disappointment over Jimin not feeling the same.

“Okay, okay,” Jimin mutters, sounding relieved. “Now get out of my apartment. I’ve been keeping you here for way too long.”

“Alright,” Jungkook retorts, saluting Jimin. 

“Get home safely,” the omega says gently. “And, again, thank you.”

“Always,” Jungkook murmurs.

Chapter Text

mood board by  @Jiminszephyr

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

13.11.2024, 3:54PM posted by @KaiCoolCuffs in r/JeonJungkook

So… I am not sure if I should be posting this - I mean I fear that’s the general consensus here, but this time I’m really not sure if I should be adding my two cents to this discourse. But I am already about to get fired anyway, so fuck it, right?

Anyway, I stumbled upon this whole discussion on Jeon Jungkook, that one CEO. Yeah, well, I had a very intimate interaction with him the other day. Cool guy, actually. He punched some omegaphobic asshole square in the face and almost broke the asshole’s nose, but it got him arrested and he ended up at my station… Man, I’m already revealing too much, but I took his statement, talked to him briefly before his hotshot lawyer showed up and some tall beta chick with stiletto heels and a crazy aura, like fuck, reminded me of my ex-girlfriend’s mom. They also had this other omega and some pup with them. The omega was super stressed out and kept staring at Jeon Jungkook. Idk if that was his mate or sth, but they seemed close. They—the hot beta chick and the lawyer—of course blew up in my face and made big threats for talking to their client without a legal counsel present. 

Anyway, long story short, the next day the higher ups show up and now I’m suspended and writing some half-assed apology letter Jeon Jungkook will never read anyway. We’re even sending bouquets and everything. The higher ups are all fucking terrified of repercussions even though Jeon Jungkook’s lawyer didn’t do shit so far. 

Whatever. Idk what to feel. I should have just skipped work, fuck man. Like the fucking commissioner knows my name now, fuck.

Anyone got some advice? Like I know the usual discourse on here is just people thirsting over him, but I’m fr in a tight spot… Ugh.  

78 likes  40 shares 23 comments 

@Shelli_Shanks: Uhm… idk who you are but maybe don't spread lies about the CEO of a respected company getting arrested???

—-@KaiCoolCuffs: Hey I’m not trying to spread lies… And I did stress that he had a reason to punch the other alpha as he was literally omegaphobic…

@yournamjooning: Wait, you’re telling me Jeon Jungkook punched another alpha for being omegaphobic??? give that alpha a fucking medal omfg! here I was, thinking he couldn't get any hotter and then you hit me with this shit, KaiCoolCuffs?? you're my new hero! The JJK community was in a drought for these past few days!! ahhh!!!

—-@KaiCoolCuffs: I mean, you’re welcome?

—-@yournamjooning: So, tell me, there was the mysterious omega and pup again, right? Are they mated???? This is literally such valuable information!

—-@KaiCoolCuffs: Valuable information for what?

—-@yournamjooning: for educational purposes, hello?!

—-@KaiCoolCuffs: I don’t see how this is educational, I’m literally hanging on by a thread here…

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14.11.2024, 7:23PM posted by @Tazevy

so there’s this person on here (@/KaiCoolCuffs) who made a weird post about Jeon Jungkook, CEO of GoldenAegis Technologies, allegedly being arrested for punching someone in the face after they made omegaphobic remarks. Okay, whatever, there’s no proof of this, literal no media outlet reported any of this, so let’s just not believe everything a rando posts in this crack-ass forum. Especially concerning JJK, since he’s recently been getting way too much attention for my taste. What’s peoples obsession with alpha chaebols? 

Which brings me to my actual problem: in the comments of that post by that alleged cop, people are suddenly acting like JJK deserves a medal for punching this guy? Idk man, this is fr just adding to this weird alphatriarchy view of oh-my-goddess-omegas-can’t-do-shit on-their-own, like we need some fucking primitive alpha growl and howl and protect us from other alphas rawr rawr You feel me? Like if he’s punching that guy who knows what he’s doing to other omegas???? I remember that one article saying he bought a whole ass tiger to keep it as a pet. Idk, man, that left a bad taste in my mouth

4 likes 0 shares 1 comment

@Tehee23yolo hey so I’m actually a GAT worker and although i get where you're coming from, I promise you JJK is not some chauvinistic knothead

—-@Tazevy: Well, idk the guy so whatever girliepop. I just don’t trust alphas

—-@Tehee23yolo: Me neither, bestie! #fuckalphas, but I can assure you he’s maybe not the most approachable looking alpha, but he’s surely not a dick. Also, the tiger article is fake. He has no pets lmaooooo, Idk if he has a house, he’s literally always working (or at least it’s what my coworkers are all saying)

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15.11.2024, 9:08AM posted by @Tehee23yolo in r/JeonJungkook

did you guys miss me????? Well, guess who’s back to report the newest gossip at GAT Headquarters?? Meeeeeee! Long story short, our CEO received a lot of deliveries this morning. Like, huge ass bouquets and fruit baskets! So many that he had them distributed amongst the different departments, yeehawwww! Best boss ever, I’m telling youuu! I attached a pic, so you guys can see what they look like!

Oh also, our christmas party is coming closerrrr, can’t wait hehe <3 It’s gonna be so much fun! (praying JJK gets drunk this year and maybe cracks a smile for the audience, SIGH! I'll be ready to take a fancam video of him aksksks)

3309 likes 301 shares 145 comments

@hopensugaa: girl you’re making me want to apply to this damn company just so I can catch glimpses of this alpha specimen at work

@milfinthebox: did yall see that random guy’s post???? why is no one talking about it?

@serendipitea613: I missed your posts so much ahhh! Thank you for feeding us with updates!!

@Shelli_Shanks: Mirae, answer my DM! We need to discuss what we’re wearing to the christmas party!

—-@Tehee23yolo: Omg my love,,,, I’ll be right there hehe <3

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

“You’re telling me Commissioner Kang sent a hundred bouquets and fruit baskets?!” Jungkook repeats, almost falling off his chair. 

“Yeah, they’re being delivered as we speak,” Juri tells him with a calm smile. She ticks it off the list she has on her clipboard. “I think there’s a personalized one for you, so I’ll have that be brought up here later. We can check that off the list for today and focus on the actually important–”

“Juri, did you call Commissioner Kang?”

“Well, it was only right, no? I made sure it wouldn’t get out. Paid that one journalist from The Omegans to write a few shitty articles on our competitors to make sure no attention would be on GAT or you.”

“You mean you bribed him.”

“Paid, bribed, it’s just semantics.” She waves him off, exhaling with a shrug. 

“You scare me sometimes, did I tell you that before?”

She cocks her head at him and gives him her best dead smile. “I hope so. I hope you can’t sleep at night, terrified of disappointing me.”

“Holy…” Jungkook looks up at the ceiling, silently praying for help from the Goddess.

“Ah, your meeting will start in a bit,” Juri reminds him, moving on from the topic smoothly. “Don’t forget you have an appointment with the health minister after this.”

Jungkook’s getting a headache and it’s barely even ten am. Nonetheless, he gives Juri a thumbs up. “I’m ready.”

“What would you do without me?” she sighs.

“Suffer,” he answers. “Suffer.”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Dear Jeon Jungkook-ssi, 

I am formally apologizing for my lack of professionalism when I interviewed you at the police station. 

Jungkook reads the first sentence of the card twice, wondering why the hell the poor cop was made to do this. He lets out such a loud sigh, he’s surprised by himself. He has his head resting on the palm of his hand, elbow sitting on the arm of his chair. 

It’s pitch black outside already, another long day coming to an end. Jungkook only managed to check the personal basket he received now and immediately regretted it. He knew the scene at the police station would have some repercussions, unfortunately he didn’t think the cop would suffer such grave consequences. 

Guilt swims in his stomach. He reads the rest of the card, and the hate for himself increases. Who is he that other people feel forced to apologize to him for doing their job?

Jungkook grinds his molars together as he opens his contact list on his phone. The Commissioner is under K. It’s almost nine pm, but the time goes over Jungkook’s head as he dials the number. 

To his surprise, it’s Commissioner Kang’s mate who picks up. “Hello? Is that you, Jungkook dear?”

“Ah, yeah, I was hoping to speak to Byungchul-ssi?”

“He’s sleeping, dear. How’s your mother?”

Jungkook stifles a laugh. “She’s doing well, thank you for asking. And sorry for calling so late, I… I wasn’t thinking.”

“What did Byungchul do that’s making you out of all people call him?” she asks with a laugh.

“He punished someone for my mistakes,” Jungkook says regretfully. “I was hoping to correct this mistake by telling your mate to tone it down with the bouquets and fruit baskets.”

“Oh Goddess,” she laments, “what did he do now? I’ll tell him you called and politely complained. In his old age, he’s getting a little difficult. Excuse him, dear.” 

Jungkook hums. “Of course, thank you.”

Commissioner Kang’s mate is a lovely omega. Jungkook doesn’t really recall how he got close to them. Must have been some random gala again, them taking a liking to him and inviting him over for dinner… 

“Will you be coming over before Christmas?” she asks now, sounding keen on having him. “Invite your mother too!”

“If I can arrange it, I’d be delighted to accept the invitation.”

“Oh, also, you aren’t mated yet, right?”

Jungkook chokes on his spit. 

“Last time you weren’t. I mean, these days people mate so quickly! But a formidable alpha like you has to be selective, right?” She clicks her tongue, announcing, “You should really meet our niece. She’s a lovely girl. Really.”

“I…” Jungkook doesn’t know what to say. 

Since Jimin’s rejection, he’s been… surprisingly fine. He isn’t sure why, because in his books, rejection is supposed to be demotivating and hurtful, but something about the way their conversation went made Jungkook just fall harder.

It’s a fool’s path, of course. Jungkook knows he’ll fall on his ass sooner or later because Jimin made it very clear what his boundaries are and Jungkook won’t ever go beyond them, but getting rejected by him felt good. It was sincere from Jimin, extinguishing Jungkook’s hope, not leading him on. It was mature. Jungkook isn’t feeling like he’s wasting his feelings on this, even if it has no hope. 

He can admit to himself that it’s the first time in his life he’s feeling something like this. Something pure and addictive all at once. Something that made him sit down and check out this Brooklyn 99 show Jimin only incidentally mentioned. Which, by the way, made him stay up until dawn, his stomach hurting from laughter. 

Sooner or later, he’ll feel let down by his own (fragile, love-starved) heart. He’ll have to come to terms that his growing feelings have no room to really be embraced. They’ll have to be cut off, ripped from the ground. They’ll remain weed, being given no chance to develop into something more.

But for now, Jungkook will allow himself the illusion of nurturing them. The ruthlessness will come later. 

Killing off feelings—oh, he’s an expert in that department. 

“I’m sorry,” he tells Commissioner Kang’s mate, “I cannot meet your niece. I am sure she is as lovely as you, but I am in no position to date.”

“Ah, well, I will accept that. If you ever change your mind, you know where to call, dear.”

Jungkook continues talking to her for a little, telling her he’ll try to coordinate a dinner and that he misses her cooking. He makes a mental note to call his mother tomorrow and relay the invitation to her. 

But after the call, the first thing he does is call another number.

“Juri,” he says after the beta picks up after the first ring.

“Yeah, sajang-nim?”

“Get me the name of the cop from the station that you almost got fired.”

“Relax, he’s just suspended for a week. Pay cut or something. It’s fine.”

“It’s not,” Jungkook says. It’s rare that Jungkook gets stern like this with her. But she can get overzealous, and working a job like hers for an alpha like Jungkook… perhaps they have lost touch with reality? 

“I understand you acted out of my interest. I’m not saying you didn’t do well. I know without your quick thinking, we could have dealt with fucking tabloids or our stocks crashing, but we almost destroyed that police officer’s life for no liable reason.”

She is quiet for a moment. Jungkook hears her breaths, waiting calmly for her response. “I understand,” she says eventually. “You are right, sajang-nim. You’ll have his contact info on your desk first thing tomorrow. Should we send compensation already?”

“No,” Jungkook says, “that won’t make us look good. I’ll take care of it, Juri.”

“Are you sure?! It’s me who–”

“It’s me who messed up and punched a guy. I should deal with the consequences.”

“He was being a dick. I’m glad you punched him.”

Secretly, Jungkook is glad too. “Well… yeah.”

“I’ve been wondering though,” Juri begins, “when did you and Jimin get so… close?”

Jungkook’s stomach drops. “We’re not.”

“Look, sajang-nim, you’re a decent alpha. I say this objectively. But you have never in the four years I’ve been your assistant skipped work for anything. Not for your mother, sister, Seokjin oppa—no one. You’re mated to your job, quite literally. But since Jimin showed up…”

“What are you getting at?” Jungkook rasps.

“Be honest, are you thinking about hiring Jimin full time? Like, making him work for you when it comes to planning conventions and all that?”

Jungkook lets out a relieved breath. “What? No, I was just being helpful. He–” Suddenly, he remembers what is number one on his bucket list regarding Jimin. “Juri,” he says, “can we arrange for someone to look at a car downstairs in the garage?”

“Uh, now?”

“No, like– I need to think about this for a little longer, actually. I’ll get back to you on this, okay?”

“Sure,” Juri says easily. “You know my number.”

“Thank the Goddess I do.”

“But you’re sure you don’t want to hire Jimin? Like, right now he’s still freelancing, but watch him get snatched up by a big company soon!”

Jungkook wouldn’t hesitate if he didn’t quite literally pray for Jimin to not work for him just a month ago. Now he’s– Well, they’re friends now. Also not quite ideal for colleagues. Jungkook didn’t become CEO by nurturing close friendships with his employees. It complicates things—makes him more prone to excuse misbehavior, inefficiency and exhibiting favoritism. 

“Stop saying nonsense,” Jungkook forces out, wondering how long he’ll be able to keep this hidden from Juri. 

This being his hopeless feelings. This being inserting himself in Jimin’s life.

“You have no eye for talent,” Juri groans. “Whatever, then we’ll let Jimin slip between our fingers.”

“He doesn’t need to be tied to one company only,” Jungkook mutters. “He’s high in demand.”

“Hm. I guess you’re right. What if he founds his own company?”

“I’d invest.”

“Ha!” Juri says. “Smart move. You like him too, don’t you? He’s so likeable, really. His son is so adorable too. He sent me some pictures.”

“We get along,” Jungkook says (not very) nonchalantly. “Anyway, it’s, uh, it’s getting late. I gotta go.”

“Alright.” She falls silent for a moment. Then she adds, “And sorry for what I did. I… I know I don’t say this a lot, but I love this job and I’m very thankful for it. When you hired me, you gave me the opportunity to prove myself and I guess I– I went overboard. I’m sorry.”

Jungkook’s heart warms up. He finds himself smiling. “I know, Juri-ah.”

“You won’t fire me, will you?”

“And let Seokjin hyung steal you from me? Never.”

“I’m so glad,” Juri sighs heavily. “I love Seokjin oppa, but the paparazzi would drive me crazy.”

“Oh, I think Seokjin hyung would drive you crazy first.”

Juri stays silent, unwilling to admit Jungkook is right. “I’m hanging up, sajang-nim.”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

When Jungkook was twenty, he met Seokjin. 

At that time, the omega wasn’t yet one of Korea’s top actors. He was a part-time model, studying theatre at the same university Jungkook went to for medical engineering. The modeling was mainly to make some money on the side, but it’s also how Seokjin met Namjoon. Which, consequently, is also how Jungkook met Namjoon.

It all started with a party, thrown by Seokjin himself. Prior to that party, Jungkook had been to exactly two in his entire life. In high school, he was too uncool to get invited to anything, so university was the first time he stepped into the realm of hangovers and Tequila shots. 

How he got invited to one of Kim Seokjin’s legendary parties is a mystery to him as well. Perhaps because he had tutored one of the cool kids in one of his engineering classes, who then relayed the invitation to him as a sort of charity act? The memory is blurry.

It’s needless to say that, at this party, where Jungkook showed up completely alone, having no actual friends at uni yet, it was Seokjin who saw Jungkook, decided he was cute, and adopted him. Jungkook doesn’t remember much from the party, but the polaroid pictures that still exist from that day (Seokjin calls them family heirlooms and keeps them in a vault) could cause some juicy, career-destroying scandals. 

Somehow, the two of them clicked. Jungkook never had an easy time making friends who actually stayed, but the omega hasn’t left Jungkook since he walked into the two-room apartment Seokjin had in uni, stacked to the brim with DVDs and clutter. 

Being Seokjin’s friend made the rest of Jungkook’s life easier too. Through the omega, Jungkook learned to have fun. To live not for others but for himself every once in a while. 

And somehow, Jungkook ended up accompanying Seokjin to one of his model gigs, where he was doing a music video shoot with none other than Namjoon. Jungkook ended up as one of the extras in the background, not knowing what the hell he was doing. Of course Seokjin went viral after the music video came out, netizens going crazy for him. More model gigs poured in. And eventually the first acting opportunity presented itself. 

It was Jungkook who convinced Seokjin to take it. He was twenty-six, no longer a college student but a full-time model, and Jungkook was twenty-two, about to finish his bachelor’s degree, a master program already lined up. He was only three years away from founding GAT back then.

In retrospect, Jungkook marvels over the fact that they got along in those early years. Jungkook was quiet and reserved, chronically bottling things up, and Seokjin was exactly the way he is now; all-encompassing, domineering, and absolutely overbearing. He was a pain in Jungkook’s ass who would have to pick him up in the middle of the night, or help him with doing taxes, or practice for auditions with him although the alpha couldn’t act for the life of him. 

But back in college, it was Seokjin who would make him lunch boxes and who would buy snacks and energy drinks for Jungkook when his exam season approached. The lunch boxes were horrible, since Seokjin cannot cook to save his life, but the gesture mattered. He was also the one to cut Jungkook’s hair for interviews for internships, or when Jungkook was suddenly propelled into money overnight and appeared on several media outlets and magazines. Seokjin helped him develop confidence—and a sense for fashion, of course. 

He never wavered in his support. 

So Jungkook decides to open up about his dilemma to Seokjin, hoping for some enlightenment to occur.

“I broke it off with Sooyoung,” he confesses, standing in front of a seated Seokjin, Catherine purring like an engine on his lap. “Or, well, she broke it off with me?”

“Who?” Seokjin asks, frowning. 

“The omega eomma set me up with.”

Seokjin nods, remembering. “Ahh! Yes, that one.”

“You had forgotten, didn’t you?”

Seokjin looks away gracefully. “Perhaps?”

Jungkook rolls his eyes. “I’m surprised my mother didn’t already call you to complain about it.”

“I’ve been busy, Jungkook-ah. So much work, you know.” Seokjin pouts, petting Catherine aggressively. “And now I have to leave my sweet darling in your hands again to go back to work. Yet another plane to board! My poor skin!”

Jungkook didn’t get any warning about this babysitting gig. Seokjin simply showed up an hour ago, dressed from head to toe in Louis Vuitton, Catherine in his arms. Well, Jungkook won’t say no to company.

“Your skin is flawless.”

“Really? You think so?” Seokjin asks.

“Do you really need validation from me?”

“Validation is always good. Come on, give it to me, my favorite alpha in this world.”

“Your skin is perfect, hyung,” Jungkook says, following his friend’s childish request.

“Self love,” Seokjin mutters with a dramatic shake of his head. “Self love, I’m telling you.”

Jungkook cocks his head to the side, trying to understand how him giving in to Seokjin’s narcissistic need for approval is self love. “What?”

“Anyway, so you got dumped by the chick?” Seokjin says, returning to the topic at hand.

“Yeah, I… I had to end it.”

“Why? She wasn’t pretty? Goddess, Jungkook, you need to lower your expectations. Are you waiting for the Goddess herself to take a physical form and seduce you?”

“No, I–” 

Is Jimin the Goddess reborn?!

“You what?”

“I have feelings for someone else.”

Seokjin jumps up, causing Catherine to meow shrilly and fall from his lap. “I fucking knew it!” He grabs Jungkook’s shoulders. “It’s that blonde omega, right? Jaemin? Jaehyun?”

“Jimin,” Jungkook says, knowing he just dug his own grave by admitting this all to Seokjin.

“JIMIN!” Seokjin exclaims loudly. “Lovely Jimin with his cute boba ball looking pup! I knew you had it bad for him! Didn’t I tell you to not mess that up?"

“Well, it’s complicated–”

“What was his friend called again? Taesun or something?” Seokjin wonders innocently.

“Uh, Taehyung,” Jungkook says slowly, getting suspicious.

“Ah, right.”

“Hyung, do you want to tell me something?”

“Me? What’s there to tell? You’re the one who wanted to confess to me!”

“Not to you–”

“Have you confessed to Jimin yet? He rejected you, didn’t he?”

“How did you know?” Jungkook is getting even more suspicious now. He scowls, trying to assess if Seokjin is messing with him. He’s acting weirdly. Asking about Taehyung like that… Jungkook knows when Seokjin is acting.

“You have this aura,” Seokjin says, gesturing up and down Jungkook’s body. 

“What aura?”

“You never faced proper rejection, Jungkook. Face it,” Seokjin says, fanning himself.

“I faced plenty of rejection…”

“From fucking science club, nerd,” Seokjin scoffs. “Admit it, you’ve never actually been in love before. Now that you are and Jimin isn’t reciprocating, you’re going through it. It's amazing, isn't it?”

“I’m not in love,” Jungkook stresses. “I’ve been in love before, jeez. I’m not a kid. I can differentiate my feelings.”

Can he, though?

Has he been in love?

Well…

“Babe, I’m an actor. Feelings are my currency and not even I can say that.” 

“Hyung,” Jungkook whines.

“Quit whining. Did you shoot your shot? Or did you just hope for something to happen and then nothing did? What did Jimin do?”

“I shot my shot. He turned me down.”

“Maybe he’s got no taste,” Seokjin says thoughtfully. “In my books, you’re one of the only decent alphas in this country. Then again, all alphas suck. So maybe he has taste. Maybe he’s not into alphas at all? Who knows?”

“His ex was an asshole.”

“And they were an alpha?”

“Yeah…"

Well, Jimin is definitely out of his league anyway. So infinitely far out of his league, Jungkook knew that first encounter all those months ago was too good to be true. 

Jimin has a pup and is successful. Jungkook is not an ideal choice for a potential romantic partner. He works too much. He’s uninteresting. A life with him would entail loneliness whenever Jungkook has to prioritize work. What can he bring to the table except money? 

So him being a decent alpha in Seokjin’s eyes might be good for Jungkook’s ego but it's not good for his precarious situation. 

“We’re friends now,” Jungkook says dejectedly. 

“Friends?”

“Yeah. I’m tutoring his son. I mean– I also punched his ex. So there’s that issue.”

“Sorry, what?”

“Yoongi hyung didn’t tell you?"

“Well, I’m not talking to him. He’s hiding who he’s dating, so I blocked his ass.”

“Oh.” That explains why Seokjin didn’t make fun of him yet.

“But let’s backtrack. You were demoted to friendzone? You?” Seokjin repeats in complete disbelief.

“Well, it’s not like there was anything between us to begin with, hyung.”

“All I’m saying is alphas and omegas can’t be friends.”

Jungkook gives him a befuddled look. “Hyung, we are literally friends and I’m an alpha and you’re an omega.”

“You’re not an alpha to me. You’re a baby.”

“What?” Seokjin is a walking paradox Jungkook cannot wrap his mind around. He lets out another whine, running both hands over his face. “Hyung, you’re really not helping here.”

“Oh, you’re grown, I’m sure you’ll figure it out!” Seokjin pats his shoulder encouragingly. “Beg a little.”

“Beg?”

“Oh, you know, beg by giving him some gifts. Some jewelry maybe? Or clothes? Is he into that? Go big or go home, right? I guess a house would also do the job.”

Jungkook grimaces. “Bad idea. Hyung, I really don’t want to cross any boundaries. He drew a line, and I can’t just walk over it. I’d just be like all the other alpha assholes.”

Jimin’s ex’s face appears in Jungkook’s mind. He balls his hand to a fist, feeling the skin stretch over the injured knuckles. The barely healed skin almost pops open again.

“Wow, you’re stenching up the room,” Seokjin complains, waving away Jungkook’s thick pheromones. He’s not wearing blockers inside his own house.

Jungkook mumbles an apology, turning away from Seokjin. He swallows, trying to rein in his stupid pheromones. 

Seokjin puts an arm around him, ruffling his hair with his other hand. “There’s only one way, Jungkookie.”

“What is it?”

“Suffering,” Seokjin muses. “Or, you know, courting.” Seokjin laughs at himself. “Now I gave you two ways!”

Courting.

COURTING.

“Anyway,” the omega says, removing himself from a starstruck Jungkook to move in front of him. “This sexy omega right here is off to Croatia now. The sun called and said it’s missing me. Send me daily pics of Catherine, okay? Love yaaaaa, mwah.” He sends Jungkook a flying kiss and then saunters to the exit, calling his assistant to pull up the car.

Jungkook doesn’t move for a while. His brain keeps repeating the same word like a broken record.

Courting. 

C-o-u-r-t-i-n-g

<Courting>

Court + ing 

A noun and a derivational suffix form the word that is about torture Jungkook for the next few weeks. 

/ˈkɔrdɪŋ/

Courting–

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Usually, Jungkook doesn’t look at his phone in the gym and turns off the sound even for Juri since this is virtually his only free time, but there is one person who isn’t on mute. 

One person who has been living in his head rent free for half a year now.

And that person texts him, making Jungkook abandon his set without a second thought. He grabs his phone, hastily unlocks it, and stares at the screen with a grin. His fucking cheeks hurt, but he doesn’t care.

Jimin, 8:05PM

So, just wondering… Are you still up for tutoring? Juwon is refusing to do homework with me, Tae, Hoseok… I’m at my wits’ end.

Jungkook, 8:07PM

Does that mean we’re on for dinner?

*between friends!

Jimin, 8:08PM

Text me a date and time and I’ll check if I can make it.

Jungkook, 8:08PM

Hey, I thought I was the workaholic between us

Jimin, 8:09PM

A child is a second full-time job. You don’t have a child.

Or do you have to tell me something?

Jungkook, 8:10PM

My company is my child, I literally birthed it

Jimin, 8:10PM

😂😂

Jungkook, 8:11PM

I mean it!!! I have a picture where I’m pregnant with it!

But yes, I’m still up for tutoring

Jimin, 8:12PM

Amazing!!! Would you be free on Tuesday?

Of course he is free on Tuesday. For Jimin (and for Juwon), Jungkook would be free even if he was about to receive a Nobel prize.

Jungkook, 8:12PM

That works. I think. I’ll double check with Juri, but for now I’m saying yes.

Should I come to your place? Or where do you want the tutoring to happen?

He gulps, staring at his phone screen, anxiously waiting for Jimin’s answer. The prospect of possibly returning to Jimin’s place is making him nervous—but also a tiny bit excited. 

Jimin, 8:14PM

Actually, I had a different idea in mind. What about doing it at your office? I have a meeting at the company on Tuesday and I also realized I literally left my car keys in my stupid car so I have to get them in hopes of not discovering my car was stolen… Anyway. I hope this is okay?

Oh? He left his keys in his car…

A sudden idea forms in Jungkook’s mind. The one dilemma he couldn’t figure out till now may just have reached a solution. 

He texts back a confirmation that doing it at his office works perfectly for him. It’s not a lie, that way he won’t really have to interrupt work a lot. 

Cool, he thinks. Yeah. Cool cool cool.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Seokjin’s silly words were like a relentless parasite planted straight into Jungkook’s brain. 

They’re the reason why he’s carrying all this shit into the parking garage of his own company in the middle of the night, the security personnel too confused to even ask him real questions about his undertaking. “S-Sajang-nim? Is that you?”

He really isn’t sure if he should be doing this, but he really wants to, and sometimes an alpha just has to do things, you know?

“Sajang-nim, uh, do you need help with this?” one of the security alphas asks him carefully.

“Oh, maybe in a few. I’ll let you know!” Jungkook says, giving them a thumbs up.

When he reaches his destination, which is of course the parking garage, he puts his hands on his hips, and scolds himself for not having stayed in his gym clothes for this. A suit isn’t exactly as mobile, but if he’s right, then this should be a quick fix. 

“Okay, let’s get to work.”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

The headquarters of GoldenAegis Technologies are very modern. Jungkook had them built only six years ago, and soon enough, as the company keeps growing, he’ll have to either move the whole thing to bigger buildings at a different location, or he’ll have to build onto the current one. But he’s not an architect, so he’s not sure how that would work. It’s already a headache to even think about it. 

Anyway, that’s not important right now. What is important is the fact that GAT of course also has its own daycare facilities. GAT is a young company, the majority of the employees are under the age of forty, so it was important to include this option. 

What wasn’t important for Jungkook this far was to actually visit it.

Sure, he was there when they opened, had champagne and posed (stoically) for pictures, and he does receive reports every few months or so from the person in charge if everything is working without a problem, but the daycare isn’t much on his mind.

Now, however, it’s the only place that has what Jungkook wants. What he needs.

As the door slides open, he realizes immediately a lot of parents—his employees, he recalls—are here to pick up their pups. It is almost five pm after all, the time most get off work.

Well, everyone’s heads turn to him and the silence that meets Jungkook is daunting. 

“Hello,” he says awkwardly, inclining his head before heading deeper into the colorful daycare.

A teacher spots him. “Ajusshi, can I help you? Who are you looking for– Oh my Goddess, sajang-nim!” She throws both of her hands over mouth, letting out a dramatic squeal. 

The entire daycare is looking at them. 

Jungkook unwillingly makes eye contact with the shocked teacher. “You wouldn’t happen to have any sort of book, toy or game appropriate for a seven-year-old pup?”

“What?”

“Nevermind, I can just look around myself. I promise I’ll return the stuff later.”

“Okay?” She seems too confused to give him a real answer.

Hectically, while burning under the curious gazes of his employees, Jungkook blindly grabs a few books, a bunch of toys that look remotely interesting, and some colorful pens. “Thanks,” he says to the teacher, walking out of the daycare with the things in his arms.

It’s needless to say he’ll receive questions about this. Loads of questions. 

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

19.11.2024, 4:46PM posted by @hdlssbrnss in r/JeonJungkook

okay, I really didn’t think I’d ever participate in the “discourse” but I simply CANNOT keep my mouth shut now that I actually had an encounter with JJK himself. So, yes, I work at GAT and yes I always knew the CEO was one of the finest alphas to grace this earth (#thankyouGoddess), but I saw the light today. Storytime: JJk came to, let’s call it department, I work at and borrowed sth. He had never stepped foot inside this part of the company before. He doesn’t really eat in the cafeteria, so the only place you really run into him is the elevator or the parking lot, but… holy fuck. If I wasn’t sure he was in a relationship (with a certain blonde omega ifykyk) then I’d climb this alpha like a tree, but self control. s.e.l.f.c.o.n.t.r.o.l. rrawrrrrrrr BARK BARKKK— (redacted.)

299 likes  78 shares  54 comments

@chuusmuffin: THE PLOT THICKENSSSSS

@Tehee23yolo: YOOOO another GAT girlie???? @Shelli_Shanks come herreeeee! Also hdlssbrnss, me and Shelli will have to add u to our GAT gc, so you can give us the DEETS

—-@hdlssbrnss: omg tehee ckrejvsk, i didn’t expect you to see this!!!

—-@Tehee23yolo: I see everything when it concerns JJK hehe :)

—-@Shelli_Shanks: I came running when I saw the notification! I gotta know everything!!!!

@gukkie_verse: thank you for sharing, I am so shook rn O.o

@king_ofhearts13: Sending my application to GAT right tf now. I need front row seats for this alpha

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Jimin, 17:33PM

You sent your driver to pick us up?!

Oh, cat’s out of the bag apparently.

One moment Jungkook was diligently working on some tasks, the next he’s nervously biting on his fingernails, trying to piece together the best response possible.

Jungkook, 17:36PM

I thought it was only right to do so since you’re coming to the company for this!

Jimin doesn’t reply for the next fifteen minutes.

Jungkook can’t sit still. He has data to look at, spread out all over his desk, but his eyes have been glued to his phone, waiting for Jimin to text back.

At some point, he can’t take it anymore and abruptly gets up from his chair. 

He buttons his blazer hastily, swallows down the nerves and heads out. He checks his phone one time, two times, three times, but there’s no text yet. 

“Where are you going?!” Juri calls out from her own desk, jumping up hastily alongside her own assistant. 

“I’ll be back!” 

“I have a meeting soon–”

“I know!” 

“Sajang-nim–”

Jungkook has turned around the corner before she can finish her sentence. He heads down to the lobby, ignoring the hushed whispers and the wide eyes that follow him as he walks across the wide space. His steps are fast, but not too fast. Just fast enough to look like he has a goal. 

He heads outside into the winter air, and–

“Jungkook hyung?” 

Juwon’s voice catches him so off guard, Jungkook almost falls down the stairs that lead to the company building.

“What are you doing out here?” Jimin wonders, standing right behind Juwon, hands on his pup’s shoulders. 

“Uh…”

Jungkook’s brain needs time to register that Jimin’s here, giving him a befuddled look because he surely didn’t expect to run into Jungkook outside of his office. The original plan was that Jimin simply drops Juwon off and then leaves with Juri. The only problem is… Jungkook didn’t tell Juri about the tutoring. 

Just like he didn’t tell Jimin about Dohyun picking them up. 

“I– I came to pick you up,” Jungkook blurts, his voice finally working again. “Let’s go.”

“What’s with all the picking up today?” Jimin says incredulously. “You really sent your poor driver! I couldn’t believe it when he showed up and insisted on taking us here!”

Shit. Was it a mistake to send Dohyun?

“Appa, the ahjussi even played Go Pack though!” Juwon recalls happily. 

“Well, I think I know who’s responsible for that,” Jimin says towards Jungkook, crossing his arms over his chest.

“I thought, since I have the subscription anyway, why not make Juwon happy…” 

Jimin’s face remains indecipherable. “Hm,” he mutters. “Okay. It did make him happy.”

“Amazing. So… shall we?” Jungkook awkwardly points at the entrance behind him.

“Yay! Sprite!” Juwon cheers, running up the stairs without a warning. Jungkook follows him with his eyes, seeing that the backpack he’s wearing has the Go Pack logo on it. “I’m going inside!” Juwon announces, waving wildly, his cheeks red from the cold and his eyes twinkling with excitement. He then dashes forward through the doors

“He’s really excited,” Jimin says apologetically as he and Jungkook follow Juwon at a normal pace. “My sincere condolences for trying to tame him once you start with the tutoring.”

Jungkook is completely out of his element here. He thought it was a good sign Juwon’s excited to be here, but apparently it isn’t?

“Is it not a good thing that he’s this charged?” he asks cautiously. 

“Well, he doesn’t know he’s here to be tutored. He thinks you’re just babysitting and buying him pizza and Sprite again. He proudly proclaimed it on the way here. Oh Jungkook hyung is going to show me Taekwondo and buy me Sprite!”

Now Jungkook blanches. His hands feel sweaty. “You didn’t tell him?!”

“He would have thrown an Oscar worthy fit,” Jimin snorts. “So no.”

“Oh.” Fuck.

Jimin gives him a smile that is definitely sadistic. “You’ll be okay. Meanwhile, I’ll have to negotiate with a DJ. Do you know how eccentric good DJs are?”

“Really now?” Jungkook mumbles, trying his best to indulge Jimin, but Jungkook’s too occupied with worrying about tutoring Juwon to really put his all into it. 

“Next to the flower arrangement people, they are the worst,” Jimin complains with a theatrical groan. “Like, it’s really baffling. I’m sure you also have to deal with a lot of tiring people, right?”

“Uh yeah, all the time.”

“Why are you…” Jimin’s gaze follows Jungkook’s—or well, it seems like he’s trying to.

“Sorry, I’m anxious now that my–”

Jimin whirls back around to him, leaning forward to hiss. “Why are all your employees staring? This is worse than the one time I fainted in the elevator.”

Jungkook‘s gaze pans around, and, indeed, people are looking. Not only looking but gawking like goddamn voyeurs. They’re trying to hide it, but they’re evidently not doing a good job. 

“I don’t usually walk around the lobby,” Jungkook says with half a laugh, trying to calm Jimin down. 

“You’re like an alien in your own company,” Jimin chuckles before turning to his son who is aggressively playing with the elevator button. “Juwon, pressing it once is enough!” 

“It’s taking so long!” Juwon whines. 

“It’s almost here!” Jimin retorts. “You really need to stop being so impatient, baby.”

Juwon stomps his foot on the floor, rolling his eyes demonstratively.

“Did you see what he just did?” Jimin exclaims, looking at Jungkook for validation.

Jungkook nods languidly. Yeah, Juwon definitely rolled his eyes at Jimin, and he definitely is trying to hide his pleased smile right now, looking away furtively. 

Jungkook has the bad feeling that he severely overestimated his babysitting skills. 

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

“Is that a child?!” Juri’s intern exclaims, mouth hanging open as Jungkook holds the door to the floor of his office open for Jimin and Juwon.

The whole room—so Juri, the intern, Jimin, and Jungkook—fall silent.

Meanwhile, Juwon says with an expression that really doesn’t match a pup’s, “I’m seven.” As if that would cancel out him being a pup.

Jungkook almost bursts out in laughter, but has to suppress it when Juwon turns to him and says, “Can we play now, hyung?”

“Oh, uh, yeah,” Jungkook stammers out, stealing a helpless glance at Jimin.

“Juwon, baby,” Jimin begins, crouching down to be on eye level with his son, “will you behave and do what Jungkook-ssi says while me and Juri are working?”

“I guess,” Juwon shrugs, putting on that nonchalant expression.

Jimin affectionately fixes the messed up straps of Juwon’s backpack. “Okay,” he says softly. “I’ll pick you back up in around an hour.”

“That quickly?” Juwon groans, slumping together. “That’s so short.”

Jimin laughs lightheartedly. “I’m glad you’re so eager to get away from me.”

Jungkook is not.  

“Juri, you ready?” Jimin calls up, rising to full height again. 

Juri and her intern come rushing towards them. Juri pinches Juwon’s cheek. “Hi, you cutie,” she coos, whereas the intern seems to be stuck in a perpetual state of shock. 

Juwon flushes in embarrassment and, to Jungkook’s utter surprise, turns to him for help. “Can we go, hyung?”

Juri’s suspicious gaze lands on Jungkook, but the alpha does his best to ignore her pointing two fingers at him as if to say, I’m watching you. Well, after today the whole company will be gossiping anyway. Whatever. Jungkook is used to gossip. 

Before they go, Jimin leans in and says, “His math stuff is in his backpack, by the way. I hid it there.”

“Noted,” Jungkook retorts quietly. 

Jimin shows him a thumbs up, eyes twinkling. “You’ll do well.”

“If not, you’ll find my body later.”

Jimin snorts, patting his shoulder once more. “I'll see you later.”

Jimin waves at them, walking out while giggling with Juri and the intern. 

Jungkook looks down at Juwon in slow motion, who looks up at him–

The pup’s face breaks into a huge grin, showing off his bunny teeth. He holds up a Lego dragon. “Do you want to see the Lego dragon I built?”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Juwon’s eyes are almost bigger than his face when he enters Jungkook’s office and looks around the spacious area. 

“Why do you have no furniture?” is the first thing he asks Jungkook, looking at him critically. “Why are the ceilings so high?”

“Oh, the architect designed it this way,” Jungkook answers soberly. 

“This is way bigger than my room in our apartment,” Juwon points out. “Why do you need such a big room?”

“Because I own this company,” Jungkook tells him. “If you own a company one day, you can also have a room this big all to yourself.”

Juwon contemplates about this. “Hm. Maybe. I will get rich and buy appa a new car.”

Jungkook feels proud looking at Juwon. “That is a great goal, buddy.”

“I know. I will become a singer.”

“Well, if you still want to be one when you’re old enough, then I’ll introduce you to the right people to help you achieve this goal.”

Provided he’ll still be in Juwon’s life then...

Juwon perks up. “Really?”

“Sure, I promise. And I usually keep my promises.”

Juwon smiles shyly, avoiding Jungkook’s gaze. The mannerism reminds him of Jimin, which makes his chest tighten.

“So, Juwon,” he begins carefully, “your appa told you I’d be babysitting you, right?”

“He said he has a meeting with an annoying DJ and that you have to watch me. I’m not a baby, so I don’t have to be babysitted,” Juwon says, pursing his lips. “I told him I can also stay alone at home since I’m already seven, but I decided to come because you are cool.”

He thinks I’m cool! Jungkook’s brain supplies.

“Yes, that’s right,” Jungkook says, “I’m doing that. And we’ll have fun like we did last time, but… What do you think about doing some math with me?”

Juwon blinks. Jungkook can quite literally witness in real time how Juwon pieces together the real reason why he’s here. “Math?” the pup repeats with emphasis. “Math sucks.”

“Yes, math is really annoying, right?”

“I hate math.”

All excitement is leaving Juwon’s expression. He’s pouting, looking down at his hands. 

Jungkook has to act fast if he doesn’t want to turn this into a bad experience with Juwon. Man, the toys and books he stole from daycare are really of no help. Nothing is of help. Jungkook is no parent. He has no friends with kids. No family either. 

All he has is sympathy for the pup in front of him. So he does what he has seen Jimin do several times, which is crouch down to be on eye level with Juwon and talk to him openly.

“When I was your age, I hated school,” Jungkook reveals. “I didn’t get along with any of the other pups, and they were often really mean to me. I also hated math. It was the hardest subject for me.”

“Why were they mean to you?” Juwon asks softly. 

“No reason. Pups are mean sometimes.”

“There’s this really mean boy in my class,” Juwon says with frustration. “He shoved Gayoung so hard she fell on her hand and broke it. I hate him.”

“Hate is a very strong word, Juwon. Do you hate him or do you dislike him for what he did to your friend? Do you understand the difference?”

Juwon seems to think about it. “At the beginning Kangho was nice to me. And then he was jealous that I became friends with Gayoung. Appa said he couldn’t really express himself and hurt us because he felt lonely.”

“That is possible, yeah. With math, it’s similar. You probably don’t hate the entire subject because it is really big and complex, right? Math is everywhere in the entire world, did you know? You just dislike that it’s hard for you, hm?”

He isn’t sure if his words make sense to a seven year old, but he doesn’t like the idea of talking to a pup as if they don’t understand anything yet. He remembers understanding so much of what adults talked about when he was a pup, always feeling ostracized for not receiving a voice in conversations or discussions. 

Juwon is not his pup. He’s not anything to Jungkook but Jimin’s pup. But somehow… somehow this feels important. 

Especially after personally meeting Juwon’s alpha father and seeing how the alpha treated the pup and Jimin, it seems detrimental that Jungkook, even if he’ll only be in their lives for a limited amount of time, portrays a good example of an alpha for Juwon.

Juwon’s pout intensifies. “Kangho said I’m dumb because I don’t understand it.”

“You’re not dumb,” Jungkook says quickly and with emphasis. “I know school can be frustrating since you have to learn so much, right? But with a little help, it’ll be easier.”

“I don’t want help. I don’t care about school. I’ll be a singer."

“Even a singer needs to go to school.”

Juwon gives him a dubious look. “That’s not true.”

“Well–” Shit, Juwon got him there. “What I mean is that, if you want to make sure you can support your appa later, you need to finish school.”

That seems to reach Juwon. He plays with his fingers, contemplating some more.

“How about we just try tutoring for twenty minutes, yeah? And then afterwards you can show me how you built your cool Lego dragon. Or we can play some other game?”

“Do you have Sprite?” 

He does not, but it can be arranged. Except… he didn’t discuss this with Jimin. He should call Juri in and– He forgot Juri is in the meeting with Jimin; she can’t get the Sprite for him.

“I don’t have Sprite today, but what if I promise to bring some for the next session?"

Juwon lets out a sigh and shrugs. “I guess that’s cool.”

“Okay, amazing!” Jungkook claps his hands together. “So, do you want to sit at my desk over there?”

Jungkook points at the large black wood desk that has three huge screens and a ton of gadgets, as well as a big, comfortable chair. Juri insisted on getting Jungkook an ergonomic chair and mouse.

“Yes!” Juwon squeals, dashing forward, throwing away his backpack on the way to the desk.

Jungkook mentally pats himself on the shoulder as he follows, picking up the discarded backpack. He made Juwon agree to tutoring, now he just has to pull it off. Easier said than done, but he’s confident he can keep the pup’s attention at least.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Once again, Jungkook realizes what an incredible job Jimin did with Juwon.

They don’t do much tutoring because a pup’s attention span doesn’t last long, but they solve a few of the tasks they are currently doing and Jungkook quickly realizes what Juwon’s problem is; he didn’t understand one thing, which then made it hard to understand all the other things that build up on it. 

Of course, math in elementary school consists of addition and subtraction primarily, explaining things to pups is the real difficulty. 

Perhaps Jungkook’s advantage was having tutored a lot of people in college and also still explaining how GAT’s products work to medical boards, hospitals, investors, and so on. 

He found himself enjoying it. Especially when he could see how Juwon slowly but surely got the hang of it and felt victorious afterwards. The validation from that made Jungkook almost giddy too.

Juwon is a great pup. He’s loved, and you can tell. He’s well taken care of, and you can tell. He can be a child, and that’s all that matters.

Jungkook prays to the Goddess that nothing ever happens that will force Juwon to grow up quickly like Jungkook had to.

After they put the math aside, Juwon began explaining how he built the Lego dragon in great detail. He also told Jungkook that he plays Let's Sing on the TV, and that he’s going to eventually get a black belt in Taekwondo.

And then he starts talking about Jimin. Only small things, just incidentally. 

Like: Appa loves to sing with me and then we bake blueberry muffins together sometimes. He sometimes calls me his little blueberry. 

Or: Appa always tells me to read, but reading is boring. His books take up soooooo much space.

The more Juwon spills, rambling away, the more Jungkook feels bad for indirectly spying on Jimin this way. He shouldn’t be using Juwon to get information on Jimin, even if the pup offered it up himself.

After a while, Jungkook also decides to apologize to Juwon again for punching Changwon. 

“Juwon,” he says, “I also wanted to apologize for what I did the last time we saw each other. You know, when I punched your father. I shouldn’t have done that.”

“Does your hand hurt?” Juwon whispers, touching the scabs on Jungkook’s knuckles tentatively.

“No, not at all. It’ll be fully healed in a few days.”

“Okay.”

“Still, I want you to know it wasn’t okay what I did. But I was angry about the things he said to your appa, so I… I snapped.”

“He’s like math,” Juwon mutters quietly, slumping into himself.

“What do you mean by that?” Jungkook questions gently.

“I don’t like him. He’s mean. But I– I shouldn’t hate him, right?”

Jungkook’s heart weighs a ton suddenly. His lungs are filling with cement. It’s not his place to tell Juwon how he should feel about his alpha father, but it affects him nonetheless to see the pup being so thoughtful.

“He didn’t bother you or your appa again, did he?”

“No. Appa said he won’t ever come back.”

“Oh.” 

“I’m glad. Last time he came back, he came to our apartment and he screamed very loudly and I hid in my room. Appa was crying after he left. But I hugged him and said he shouldn’t cry.”

“You did well,” Jungkook says tightly, gulping. “You did really well, little one.”

“I’m seven now, so I can do even better now,” Juwon says bravely.

“Yes, you’ll protect your appa?”

“Hm,” Juwon hums, nodding confidently. 

“That’s really good.” Jungkook pats the pup’s head tenderly, stroking his soft hair, unable to stop the affection coursing through him. The good ol’ instincts make him want to grab Juwon and promise him he’ll do everything in his power to protect him and Jimin. To be there for them. 

Seamlessly, Juwon goes back to rambling about his Lego hobby and his Taekwondo instructor Jackson. The guy really seems to have a hold on Juwon. 

Jungkook inclines his head and listens to the pup, realizing it might be one of his new favorite things next to Jimin’s favorite songs, Jimin’s shows, and Jimin’s voice.

It fills the silence. Also fills the damn void inside of him. 

Selfishly, he wishes he'll never have to miss out on this ever again. 

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

A little later, Jimin and Juri, as well as Juri’s intern, who’s right behind them, return and Jungkook feels the beta’s curious gaze on him as the two of them peek inside Jungkook’s office. 

“Did everything go well?” Jimin wonders.

“Oh, yeah, splendidly.” Jungkook stands up, gesturing for Juwon to follow him. “Your appa is here to pick you up.”

“Already?” Juwon complains, rolling his eyes again. He stays seated, turning around on the chair to face the windows instead of his father.

“I told you it would only take an hour!” Jimin calls out. To Juri, he says, “You see this betrayal?”

“Unbelievable, really,” Juri indulges, and the two of them share a laugh. 

“Juri,” Jungkook blurts. “Do we– Do we have any snacks on this floor? I’m hungry.”

Taken off guard by the sudden request, Juri goes, “You’re hungry? For snacks?”

“Yes.”

“I mean– I can check?"

“Please do. Like, right now.”

“Okaaaay,” Juri says, stretching the word while giving Jungkook a pointed look. “Come, Shelli-ssi, let’s check the snack drawer.”

“Alrighty, unnie,” the intern chirps.

Just like that, Jungkook is alone with Jimin and Juwon. The pup isn’t really paying much attention to them, though. He’s still on Jungkook’s ergonomic chair, making dragon noises.  

“You look tired,” Jimin comments, his voice warm. “I hope it wasn’t too exhausting.”

“Juwon was an angel. Really.”

“No way! He was a little devil all morning though.”

“It’s because he loves you. We are cranky with those we feel comfortable with."

The ghost of a smile appears on Jimin’s face. “What a way to make me smile, Jungkook-ssi.”

“I have a way with words, what can I say?” Jungkook says teasingly. 

“I’m not denying that. You do.”

“Are you complimenting me, Jimin-ssi?”

“Oh? Honorifics?”

“Work-context, remember?”

The banter stops when Jimin takes a step closer. His lips part and he mumbles, “I– We managed to cut a deal with the DJ.”

“Congrats. You did well, I’m sure.”

“Hmm.” Jimin idly glances at his knuckles. “How are the knuckles?”

“Doing very good. I heal quickly.”

Jimin snatches his hand. “It doesn’t look that good though.” He holds Jungkook's hand tenderly, turning it around. There are still scabs on it, some of them rather dry. 

“I feel bad,” Jimin says, brows drawn together in concentration as he inspects Jungkook’s hand. 

Jungkook would lie if he said his heart didn’t stutter. “It’s fine, I promise. You did a good job when you treated the wounds.”

Jimin gently lets go of his hand and waves him off. “I’m an amateur but I do have a son that likes to climb and fall from things.”

“And you were a nurse in training,” Jungkook reminds him.

“You remembered,” Jimin breathes faintly. 

I remember everything about you. Every single detail.

“I have a good memory,” Jungkook says instead of his real thoughts.

“Yeah, uh… I have this, by the way,” Jimin says shyly, pushing a rectangular-shaped shopping bag into Jungkook’s arms that he had been carrying around thus far. “I washed your blazer. Got all the saliva out. But it’s…”

Jungkook looks inside. He pulls his brows up. “It’s gray. Wasn’t it black?”

“I think I washed it the wrong way or something,” Jimin says apologetically. “I really don’t know. I almost cried when I took it out of the washing machine and… Well, see for yourself.”

“It’s certainly something,” Jungkook says, inspecting his ruined blazer. The scent of Jimin’s laundry detergent and of of him floats into Jungkook’s nose, making him want to bury his face in the fabric. He doesn't give two flying fucks that it's ruined.

“You can be mad. You can even scream at me and call me stupid or something. I should have just paid for dry cleaning but of course I messed it up and now it’s all ruined and–”

“Jimin,” Jungkook interrupts softly. He smiles. “Breathe.”

“I’m breathing.”

“No, you’re over-apologizing for no reason. Who cares about some random blazer? It’s just a piece of clothing.”

“It’s expensive!” Jimin insists, the guilt now visible in his eyes.

“I’m rich,” Jungkook deadpans. “Very rich, remember? This won’t hurt me.”

“I want to pay for it though,” Jimin whispers. “I insist.”

“Stop insulting me,” Jungkook scoffs. “I won’t let you pay me for a blazer I have like fourteen of. I had already forgotten about this one.”

“It’s about the principle!”

“Well, and my principle is that I won’t make a big thing out of little things. So stop spouting nonsense and kindly get lost with all the ‘let me pay you back’ bullshit.” He looks Jimin deep in the eyes. “Okay, omega?”

“Okay,” Jimin says, his voice barely a whisper. 

There is it again, that cursed eye contact. Heat sizzles between them.

As always, Jimin is the one to break it first. “Okay, I have to check if my car still exists now.” He laughs awkwardly and lets his eyes flicker around, avoiding Jungkook’s intense stare at all costs. “Juwon, let’s go!”

The pup groans, but finally comes running over. “I don’t want to leave!"

“We have to! You need to eat dinner, baby,” Jimin tells him. “And tomorrow is school.”

Juwon pulls a disgusted grimace. 

“You know, you should try to start your car again,” Jungkook suggests innocently.

“Nah, I’ve given up on it. I really need to take care of it and get it to a garage. I’m so sorry it’s been taking up space in your parking garage. The parking fee must be outrageous already. I’ve been procrastinating checking it.”

“It’s taken care of,” Jungkook says to take away the worry.

“What?”

“I mean– It will be taken care of. You won’t have to pay the guest parking fee, don’t worry.”

“You know,” Jimin starts, brows slowly creasing, “I really wonder why any of the tabloids ever thought you were cold. You’re so warm, Jungkook. It’s very adorable.”

His mind latches onto the You’re so warm first and he blinks like a fish, comprehending the words slowly. Then he realized—way too late—that Jimin called him adorable.

“Anyway, thank you for the tutoring. Judging by Juwon’s lack of protest, he actually used his brain today, so I am eternally grateful.”

“Anytime, really. If you need me, just let me know.”

Jungkook really wants Jimin to need him. 

Jimin mock salutes him. “Noted.”

“Okay, off you two go,” Jungkook retorts, ushering Jimin towards the door. “And don’t forget to check if your car might start again. You never know with cars.”

“My friend Hoseok says they’re bipolar!” Jimin calls out as he holds the door open for Juwon to slip through. “Juwon, say goodbye!”

Juwon, however, only flaps his hand around lazily. Well, Jungkook will take it. It’s close enough to a wave. 

“Goodbye,” Jungkook says sincerely. 

Jimin and Juwon leave, and Jungkook feels empty for a moment. 

It only takes a millisecond until Juri’s back in his office. “I should be torturing you for answers,” she says, handing Jungkook chocolate bars, “but I don’t even know if I want them.”

Jungkook takes the chocolate, knowing he won’t eat it anyway. “Go back to work.”

“You know I always get my answers.”

Jungkook pretends like he’s getting a call. He puts his phone to his ear. “Yeah? Oh, yeah, I’m free. Talk.”

Juri points at him threateningly. “I’m watching you, sajang-nim.”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

The real relief comes when Jimin texts him about fifteen minutes later.

Jimin, 19:16PM

The car WORKS? My prayers to the Goddess must have been worth it. I am so glad right now, I could cry!

Jungkook makes a victorious gesture as he sits in his office all by himself, grinning at the screen like a fool.

Jungkook, 19:17PM

No way! That’s a miracle! Very happy to hear that!

The late night trip really paid off.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

“You have such a handsome son, Eunjeong-ssi,” one of the ahjummas at the table says with a dreamy sigh, shaking her head at Jungkook simultaneously. 

“Yes, I was blessed by the Goddess,” his mother agrees proudly, taking a sip from her tea. 

Jungkook’s mother is a similar breed of unhinged as Seokjin, that’s why they get along very well. After she spent Jungkook’s youth and Joohyun’s childhood in a depressive state, she emerged almost manic. Now she tests Jungkook’s patience whenever she can.

This is just another one of those examples.

Instead of showing up alone for their weekly lunch, his mother decided to apparently invite three of her friends, all of them mates to some rich conglomerates. As far as Jungkook knows, they do Pilates together. Or Yoga? Whatever.

He’s irritated. He enjoys spending time with his mother if she’s not trying to meddle in his life or sell him like a cow.

“He’s not mated,” she announces, looking smug. “He’s very picky, you see.”

The three ahjummas gasp. They ogle Jungkook like he’s not actually a person but just some piece of flesh meant to be some trophy husband to their rich daughters or sons. Someone to ensure money stays in the family. Someone they probably think will be easy to control. Jungkook’s seen it all before.

He hasn’t said a word since he got here fifteen minutes ago and found his mother laughing hysterically with her friends. 

He was in a good mood, but that is over now. 

“Hara, your son, how old is he?” she asks her friend with the bow in her hair. Jungkook guesses it’s there to make her look younger, just like all the botox that is paralyzing her face.

“He turned twenty-five last month. Perfect age for mating.”

His mother nods. “Amazing. And he’s an SNU graduate, right?”

“Yes, and a pianist.”

“Right! How lovely!” 

They all sigh, coo, and fan themselves.

“Jungkook will meet him,” his mother declares, squeezing Hara’s hand. “And maybe they’ll be a match!”

Jungkook’s molars grind together. “Eomma,” he begins, but is ignored.

“Daehyun is very busy with all the practice for his solo concert,” Hara bemoans. “But I know he will clear his schedule if I tell him to meet Jungkook-ssi.”

“Jungkook is so busy too,” his mother laments, “but he will certainly make an effort to meet your lovely son, Hara.”

Is this a contest to determine who’s the busiest? 

Jungkook could be working right now, but he took his time to see his mother for this. He somehow feels betrayed. There’s a reason why Joohyun stayed in the US after finishing her studies. 

“And if they aren’t compatible then you can tell Nayoung to–”

Jungkook stands up abruptly, unable to take it anymore. His chair makes a loud screech, alerting not only his mother and her friends but the entire café. 

Calmly and with a stone-cold face, Jungkook buttons his suit jacket. “Unfortunately, I will take my leave now,” he announces tonelessly. “I also will not meet your son, Hara-ssi. My mother was a bit overzealous, I apologize.”

“Jungkook!” 

“Actually, I will not meet any of your sons or daughters,” Jungkook says with an emotionless smile. 

They gawk at him like fish in a pond.

“It was nice meeting you,” Jungkook says, giving them a bow before turning around and strutting towards the exit. He blows out an annoyed breath, already forming a text to Joohyun in his mind to complain about their mother.

He pauses, however, when he realizes his mother is hurrying after him. 

“Eomma,” Jungkook sighs, too tired to have a conversation with her. “I have an appointment. I have to go.”

“Why do you not want to meet any of them?” she says, grabbing his hands. She smells of cinnamon and all things Jungkook once associated with home. It’s making him sick. 

“Eomma, I want you to stop setting me up.”

“Why? You clearly need the help.”

“Because I’m asking you to. I’m requesting you to stop. I’ve done so for the past three years but you’ve been ignoring me."

Thre is something disheartening about the way his mother sighs, as if she was disappointed in Jungkook. “Don’t you want to be happy?” she whispers. 

“And I can’t be happy alone? I need a mate?” Jungkook laughs heartlessly. 

“Look at me. I had to raise you and Joohyun all on my own and we were all unhappy. You need two parents in order to raise your child right. You need a mate if you don’t want to end up all alone like me.”

Jungkook scoffs. He can’t believe her. A part of him chalks it up to ignorance. She is ignorant but she wants the best for him. She thinks she’s being considerate. But another part of him—the part that has felt abandoned recoils. 

His last restraint breaks. After three years of this nonsense, date after date, swallowing down his self worth, his repulsion and nurturing this stupid fucking guilt, Jungkook is done. 

Now that he actually has someone he has feelings for (whether they end up unrequited or not is irrelevant) he comes to the conclusion—enlightenment, really—that he’d rather love someone on his own terms. Someone he picked. Not someone his mother is assigning to him out of sheer desperation.

Jungkook would rather love Jimin for the sake of it and receive not a drop of affection back than loving no one at all. 

“I’m leaving,” Jungkook says then, his tone final.

“You’re embarrassing me in front of my friends!” she exclaims shrilly. “Son, please–”

“You can add the tea and cake you and your friends are having to my tab,” Jungkook cuts in, “but don’t expect me to show up to our weekly dates again unless I know you won’t pull this shit again.”

“Shit? ” Her eyes widen. “Watch how you’re talking to me, son!”

The knot in his stomach tells Jungkook how much he hates this. “I mean it,” he threatens. “I won’t come.”

“Just like you won’t come to Christmas nor to your own birthday party? You’ll ignore your own mother?”

“I might not be a good son,” Jungkook says, his voice almost breaking. “But you’re not a good mother either.”

He doesn’t wait for her answer. He simply turns around and walks out. 

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Jungkook’s phone pings—not indicating a text but a call. He’s at the gym right now for the second time today, trying to work through his bad mood by sweating and tiring out his body. Since his semi-fight with his mother yesterday, he’s been unable to concentrate on anything.

It weighs on him heavily that there’s an emptiness inside of him and everyone in his life can see it. His mother can too, that’s why she’s so avidly trying to play matchmaker. Unfortunately, it also feels like a testament to his deeper lying issues and the resentment he harbors for his mother. 

As an adult, he understands the debilitation she felt from the loss of her mate and the unbearable responsibility of raising two pups. But as her child, he still remembers the way she yelled, scratched, screamed, and shoved him away—physically and emotionally.

When he sees Jimin’s name on the screen, however, his mood lifts a little. His cold heart thaws and heat trickles out. He immediately stops all he’s doing (namely: pull ups) and picks up the call. “Yeah, Jimin? Everything okay?"

“Oh, you picked up so fast,” Jimin says, clearly surprised. 

“You called, so of course I picked up.”

“I– It’s nothing important. I hope I didn’t interrupt you doing… something. Anything. I don’t know. You sound breathless, so…”

“Oh,” Jungkook says. “I was just… Just going over some contracts, some offers, some statistics, you know.”

“Sounds gruesome,” Jimin says emphatically. “But it’s good you’re still at the office, that means you could perhaps do me a favor and check if Juwon left his toy there? The Lego dragon one?”

“Oh,” Jungkook says again. He tries to find an excuse. “Uh– Give me ten minutes, I’m currently eating dinner at– at some place nearby. I’ll check right away though and report back to you shortly, yeah?”

“Oh Goddess, no rush! Juwon is just a little grumpy that he misplaced it and we were trying to locate it. Chances are it’s not even in your office but at school.”

“He brought it with him when I tutored him… I hope the cleaners didn’t take it somewhere or something,” Jungkook mumbles, tugging on his hair. 

He needs to find that dragon. 

“As I said, please don’t stress yourself over it. Just shoot me a text if you find it.”

“I’ll update you,” Jungkook promises.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

It takes Jungkook fifty minutes to head back to the office, search the entire floor for the freaking dragon, only to catch one of the cleaners and beg them to tell him they found it on Thursday and stored it away safely. 

They did. They kept it in a large box with all kinds of other belongings, but Jungkook only cares about the red Lego dragon, clutching it to his chest, feeling relieved. 

He texts Jimin a picture of it. Not a selfie (he has not taken a selfie since college), but one where he’s holding it. He adds a caption . Found it. Should I drop it off at yours.

He waits for twenty minutes, getting no reply. It’s only 7pm. It’s not that late, is it? He could– No. No, he shouldn’t. But Juwon loves that dragon, he spent so long telling Jungkook how proud he is of it…

It should concern Jungkook how many impulsive decisions he’s made since the infamous, unforgettable gala. But Jungkook has no control anymore, and so he gets in his car and drives to Jimin’s place, his brain absolutely empty and overflowing at the same time.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Jimin, (un)fortunately, actually opens the door. The omega is flushed—like he got interrupted in the middle of a physical activity—and his hair is disheveled, looking soft and shiny. His lips part in genuine surprise as he takes Jungkook in. "Jungkook?" 

"Hi," Jungkook says hoarsely, trying his best to smile.

Jimin is at a loss of words quite honestly. He gapes at Jungkook, standing frozen in the door. “You– What are you wearing? Is that– Are you wearing gym attire?”

Jungkook slowly looks down on himself, realizing he’s still in his gym clothes, consisting of a black compression shirt and gray sweatpants. He’s wearing an unzipped black puffer jacket on top, and his hair falls onto his forehead messily. He must look completely different compared to his usual appearance.

“I mean– I mean what are you doing here?” Jimin backtracks, clearing his throat.

Jungkook opens his mouth, trying to explain himself when another person sticks their head through the door, asking, “Jimin, what’s taking so long? You– Oh.” A beta with brown hair and a friendly face is looking at him, eyebrows raised. “Do I know you?”

Jimin jumps back to life. “Hoseok– Uhm– this is my boss.”

“Your what?”

“It’s Jeon Jungkook, CEO of GAT, for Goddess’ sake,” Jimin hisses under his breath, elbowing his friend.

Remembering his manners, Jungkook holds out his free hand. “Jungkook,” he says politely, “nice to meet you.”

The beta, Hoseok, takes his hand, giving him a firm shake while smiling curiously. “The infamous Jeon Jungkook. I’ve heard so much about you.”

Jimin goes red. Jungkook does too. It’s a party of red-faced people. The only one enjoying it is Hoseok.

“I hope good things only,” Jungkook laughs nervously. 

“Oh, such good things,” Hoseok confirms. “Really.”

“Oh? Oh, that’s–”

“Hyung, why don’t you head back inside and check what Juwon’s doing? I’m sure he’s probably eating all the chocolate as we’re speaking,” Jimin rambles, tugging on his friend’s arm to push him back inside the apartment. 

Hoseok throws Jimin a look Jungkook can’t really interpret. “Okaaaaay,” the beta singsongs, sauntering back inside. “Have fun!”

Jimin gives his friend a strained smile, ushering him forward. Jungkook watches, intrigued by their dynamic. 

“Sorry about him,” Jimin says breathily, running a hand through his blonde hair. “We’re having a board game evening.”

“Oh, that’s fun. Without Taehyung-ssi?”

“Ah, he’s… Well, I don’t know, he sent me a text that he’s gonna leave for a trip.” Jimin rolls his eyes. “He does that sometimes. Disappearing, I mean. I don’t know what he acquired a PhD in history for since he abandoned academia the minute he was done.”

“He has a PhD in history?” Jungkook blurts, brows flying up. 

“Yeah, he doesn’t exactly look the part, but I told you he’s really smart. Gave me a freaking inferiority complex in college, I’m telling you.” 

“Oh.”

“Well, he’s not using it though. The freaking diplomas are on my shelves, not his.”

“Oh,” Jungkook repeats.

He should take a smalltalk workshop or something. 

Seokjin’s annoying voice goes through his head. Suffering, or, you know, courting.

Jimin smiles hesitantly. “Yeah… Uhm. I–  What are you doing here, though?”

 "I have the dragon.” Jungkook holds it up awkwardly, letting out a laugh to fill the silence.

“The dragon!” Jimin is stunned, throwing one hand over his mouth. “I– You really found it.”

“Yeah, he must have actually forgotten it when I tutored. Sorry about that.”

“Goddess, you really didn’t have to drop it off today! I could have just stopped by your office tomorrow. I am so sorry for making you drive here this late and– and interrupting your work. You weren’t at the office when I called…right?”

Jimin’s eyes do sweep over his body again, clearly unable to comprehend that Jungkook is wearing sweatpants.

“I’m not in a suit,” Jungkook provides, chuckling. “So no, I wasn’t.”

“It’s like I’m talking to a whole new person,” Jimin mutters, still distracted.

“You’re staring.”

“You weren’t at the office, but– I’m what?” His gaze snaps up, lips still parted. Jungkook wants to bite them. He wants to bite all of Jimin. 

“Nothing,” Jungkook says sweetly. “Give me your hand.”

“My what?” Jimin blinks.

With a huff, Jungkook grabs Jimin’s wrist, opens his palm and puts the Lego dragon into it. “I’m just here to drop this off. I thought Juwon would be happy about it.”

“Oh, he’ll be thrilled,” Jimin whispers, looking up at him. Jungkook sees him swallow, his long eyelashes fluttering over his amber coloured eyes.

“Good,” Jungkook answers. “What are you doing tomorrow evening?”

“Tomorrow?”

“It’s a Saturday.”

“Saturday,” Jimin echoes.

“You still owe me a dinner,” Jungkook says, the left corner of his lips quirking up. “I could pick you up at this time tomorrow.”

“I– I didn’t think you were serious about the dinner.”

“I’m always serious,” Jungkook says. “I have a reputation, remember? Most Serious Bachelor.”

“Is it– I mean, it’s not some high-end restaurant, is it? Because I don’t have anything to wear.”

“I’m not telling you,” Jungkook smirks.

“Why?” 

“It’s a surprise.”

“Will you be wearing a suit again?” Jimin whispers.

“Most certainly.”

“Oh Goddess,” Jimin mutters, “so I need to wear something appropriate too.”

“I’m sure you’ll find something. But I take it that’s a yes?”

Jimin hasn’t moved an inch. He’s still staring up at Jungkook. “Yes,” he breathes. “I just have to bribe Hoseok to babysit Juwon.”

Jungkook gets his wallet from his pocket. “No problem.”

Jimin breaks into a laugh then, looking away while licking over his teeth. “You’re ridiculous.”

“I’m just kidding.” He puts his wallet back into his pocket and huffs a breath. “You know I don’t want to pressure you into goi– into hanging out with me, right? This dinner, it’s just because I don’t have anyone to eat at restaurants with me.”

“And why is that?” 

If Jungkook’s ears aren’t messing with him, then Jimin’s voice just became a lot… smoother. Jungkook has to collect himself before he resumes speaking. “Well, uh, Seokjin hyung is too famous to go there. Namjoon hyung is too busy, and Yoongi hyung refuses to go to that restaurant.”

“What? Why?”

“He used to date Seokjin hyung. They had one of their dramatic breakups inside this place. It ended with Yoongi having a full plate of pasta over his suit.

“They used to date?!” Jimin exclaims, tilting his head to the side. 

“Very messy relationship, but yeah.”

“I am so intrigued right now.” He shakes his head.

“And my mother isn’t into Italian and my sister lives in the states,” Jungkook goes on. Well, since she’ll arrive soon, maybe he should take her there too. 

“What about Juri?”

“Oh, we don’t hang out like that.” He laughs. “I think she’d set herself on fire if she had to hang out with me after work too.”

“What do you mean ‘after’? The grind literally never ends for you, Mr. Workaholic. It’s what I have you saved as in my phone, by the way.”

Jungkook stifles a genuine laugh. “You saved me as ‘Mr. Workaholic’?”

“So what? It’s the unfiltered truth.” Jimin gives him a smug grin.

“I’m reconsidering tomorrow,” Jungkook announces, pretending to be sad. “You always attack me and my livelihood.”

“An alpha like you needs some humbling. I’m just doing my job as a perfectly normal omega in this alphariarchy.”

Perfectly normal? There’s nothing normal about the omega in front of him. Jimin is ethereal. He’s above everyone else. Jimin’s so far away, Jungkook feels like he’s standing in front of the sun right now, willingly getting burned only to get a taste of it once. Vampire, as he said earlier.

“An alpha like me?” Jungkook questions. “I need you to elaborate on that.”

“Oh, come on, you know what I mean by that.”

“Last time I checked I didn’t. Please enlighten me, oh-holy-omega.”

Jimin throws his head back, letting out a warm laugh. “Oh, shut up!” He lightly pushes at Jungkook’s chest with his free hand, but Jungkook catches his wrist again, keeping Jimin’s hand right where it is; right between Jungkook’s pecs.

“You can tell me tomorrow,” Jungkook says deeply. “I’ll text you, yeah?”

Jimin swallows visibly, nodding. “Yeah.”

“And don’t worry about what you’re gonna wear,” Jungkook says assertively. 

“I will try not to.”

“Good job,” Jungkook says, the praise slipping out.

Jimin seems to suck in a breath, his hand twitching on Jungkook’s sternum. “Jungk–”

The alpha lets Jimin’s hand go abruptly. “I’ll see you tomorrow, Jimin. Greet Juwon for me, yeah? It was lovely meeting Hoseok, too.”

“Uh-huh, will do,” Jimin says. 

Satisfied, Jungkook turns around, heading back towards the elevator. Jimin’s scent is still in his nose, and once he’s in the elevator, all by himself, he allows himself to take a deep breath. 

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Breaking News! Korea’s top actor Kim Seokjin involved in yet another dating scandal? This time with a non-celebrity?

The headline is making Jungkook rub his temples after returning to the office, while being on the phone with Namjoon. Jungkook never even finished his workout today, which means he’ll have to squeeze in some extra sets tomorrow. 

Namjoon has been talking his ear off on the other line of the call for forty minutes now. The alpha’s call felt like a relief at first, a welcomed distraction, since it meant he didn’t have to break his skull over tomorrow’s “hang out” with Jimin just yet, but it’s turning into another headache.

Of course, Seokjin is at the root of it.

“Jungkook,” Namjoon says, sounding out of breath, “a non-celebrity. How am I supposed to deal with that? Fellow celebs are media-trained at least! ”

For Seokjin’s sake, Jungkook won’t reveal that he has a very clear idea of who this common male is the actor is allegedly dating. After Jimin said Taehyung isn’t in the country, his theory became only clearer. 

He skims through the Dispatch article, reaching the pictures. It shows Seokjin hand-in-hand with a taller male—obviously an alpha—walking down a street. Jungkook had no doubts about Taehyung being the alpha, but the cast on the alpha’s foot and the crutches really cement it. His face is blurred, but he’s wearing the same leather jacket he was the first time Jungkook met him.

“Have you spoken to him?” Jungkook asks tiredly.

“He’s nowhere to be found. I’m having around ten staff searching for him right now around the hotel he supposedly stayed at.”

“I see…” Jungkook mumbles. 

“You try calling him too.”

“You think he’ll pick up when I call?”

“Well, it’s my last straw. I don’t know how to locate him. I mean, Yoongi offered to locate his phone, but that felt a little…”

“He’s scary sometimes.”

“I don’t even want to know how he spends his free time when he’s not working.”

“Probably practicing throwing knives.”

“I was going to say how to let someone disappear without leaving a trace.”

“Well,” Jungkook says.

“Well,” Namjoon says back. “But you’ll call Seokjin for me, right?”

“I’ll try my luck.”

“Amaze-balls.”

“What?” 

“Oh, nothing. Gotta shoot, Jungkook. I owe you!” Namjoon hangs up without any further explanation.

Jungkook snorts to himself. Seokjin and Yoongi will never believe him if he tells them Namjoon unironically said amaze-balls.

Well, time to do his friend a favor and call their other mutual troublemaker friend.

Seokjin is on speed dial alongside Juri and his family, and against all odds, he even picks up. “Jungkookie!”

“Hyung, you lied to me,” Jungkook says without hesitation.

“What? Me?” 

“Namjoon hyung called.” Jungkook sighs. “So, want to tell me who the alpha in the paparazzi pictures is?”

In the background, it sounds like someone sucks in a sharp breath and then Seokjin is whispering something hastily. 

Jungkook lets out a dry laugh. “Hello, Taehyung-ssi.”

“Shit,” he hears Taehyung blurt. 

“There’s no Taehyung here!” Seokjin exclaims. He seems to be moving because the line almost disappears only to come back to Seokjin saying, “–you’re talking about.”

“Hyung, you’re a terrible actor when you’re not acting.”

“Excuse you?

“You’re causing trouble again,” Jungkook tells Seokjin. “Namjoon hyung is having a crisis. Do you even think before pulling this type of shit? It’s irresponsible.” 

As soon as the words leave his mouth, Jungkook regrets them. What’s up with him and blowing up in people’s faces this week? “Hyung, I–”

“I want to be free. And I won't let the public’s opinion of me ruin my life. I will live it the way I want to and you should too, Jungkook. You’re working right now, aren’t you? You’re sitting in your office, going over files or whatever and you’re lecturing me because I went on a date with your crush’s friend. So what?”

“Hyung, I didn’t mean to lash out at you. I just…”

“You what?” 

“I’m sorry, okay?”

Seokjin lets out a breath. “Whatever.”

“I guess I felt hurt you didn’t tell me about it,” Jungkook admits reluctantly. “You were at my house and dropped Catherine off but didn’t think to tell me that you were going out with Taehyung-ssi and literally flying him out to Croatia?”

“Well, you never tell me anything either, do you?” 

It feels like getting hit in the stomach. Denial is his first instinct. Denying this outlandish accusation. 

But he can’t.

“You are a vault sometimes, Jungkook,” Seokjin says, his voice quiet. “In all the years we’ve been friends, I still sometimes wonder if I actually know you.”

His office feels glaringly empty, he feels glaringly empty, and the words Seokjin just threw at him? They are too loaded. They carry too much of the truth.

Jungkook doesn’t even know himself. 

Seokjin says brokenly, “I guess I wanted a secret too for once. Something the world can’t take from me.”

“Hyung…”

He hears Seokjin sniffle. “I know you’re right. I pissed off Namjoon again. But I like him, Jungkook. I like Taehyung.”

“It’s only been like two weeks since you two met.”

“So? We feel something for each other. And we want to see if it could develop into more.”

“Does Taehyung-ssi plan on telling Jimin?”

“I mean, he’ll find out anyway now that the paparazzi caught us,” Seokjin huffs, having resigned himself to his fate. “We had wanted to tell our friends after the trip.”

“I see,” Jungkook mumbles. He feels horrible. Guilty once again. 

“He has a PhD, Jungkook,” Seokjin cries out now. “A PhD!”

Jungkook groans, recalling Jimin mentioning it literally a few hours ago. “I know.”

“He’s not like the other alphas I dated out of spite,” Seokjin whispers. He sounds actually… enamored. 

“Hm. He’s a good alpha, I guess.” 

Jungkook has talked to the guy twice, but he has seen how he treats Jimin and how much Juwon loves him. That is enough to go off of.

“Is this you approving?” Seokjin snickers, thankfully less sad now.

“I’m not approving of this whole sneaking off to Croatia,” Jungkook says annoyedly, “but yeah, whatever, hope you’re happy.”

Seokjin squeals. “You’ll be the best man at our mating ceremony!”

“Hyung, now you’re moving a little too fast.”

“And we can go on double dates once you and Jimin hit it off!” 

“We’re friends.”

“Friends don’t suck each other off in gardens!” Seokjin snickers.

Jungkook’s brain short circuits. “How did you–”

“Okay, gotta go! Don’t be mad, yeah? I’ll call in a few days again and will be back before Christmas! Love youuuuu!”

Seokjin hangs up, leaving Jungkook flabbergasted. 

Jimin must have told Taehyung who must have told Seokjin. 

This is the worst thing that could have ever happened to Jungkook; his best friend dating his crush’s best friend. This means, if they continue dating, Jungkook will always be linked to Jimin. At first glance, this is good. At second, however…

Jungkook finds himself remembering his painful dilemma; will he commit to being friends or will he pray Jimin changes his mind? Will he pour all his energy and effort into wooing Jimin or will he let it be? Will he heed Jimin’s warning or will he let Jimin take a hammer and demolish Jungkook’s unloved heart?

And then what?

He’ll be seeing Jimin through Seokjin for the rest of his life?

He’ll suffer?

Jungkook drops his face into the palms of his hands. He exhales heavily, condemning everything. 

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Jungkook knows he’s screwed.

He’s screwed because Jimin looks too beautiful. 

And Jungkook’s heart drops to his stomach. He doesn’t feel the cold anymore. Jimin, as he heads down the pavement, waving at him, is all that Jungkook’s unworthy eyes can comprehend. He sees nothing else, and he never wants to ever again. 

It’s 6:58PM and Jimin is on time. 

Jungkook’s been here since 6:30PM, waiting in the cold in case Jimin showed up early. He wanted to make sure he’d open the car door for the omega. 

“You didn’t have to wait outside! It’s so cold!” Jimin exclaims cheerfully, hurrying to get to Jungkook faster. He’s wearing a cream coloured coat and a white scarf, all of it matching his hair perfectly. He’s beautiful. Breathtaking. 

Jungkook is so done for.

“It’s not cold to me,” Jungkook says nonchalantly, ignoring the way his feet feel like they’re about to freeze to ice. 

“Then why are your ears such an alarming shade of red?” Jimin demands, coming to a halt in front of him.

A smile sneaks onto Jungkook’s face. He shrugs. “They’re exposed to the cold.”

“And your lips? They’re blue!”

“I doubt that,” Jungkook retorts, smile deepening.

Jimin groans and looks away in defeat. When his gaze returns to Jungkook, the two of them share a look, Jimin’s lips also breaking into a smile. “It’s good to see you,” the omega says. “Thanks for picking me up.”

“I hope you brought hunger.”

“I could eat the whole menu.”

“I want to see that.” He means it. “We can order however much you like.”

“So everything we don’t finish gets wasted? I think not!”

“I mean…you could take it with you. Let Juwon have some too.”

“He eats like a black hole. So absolutely not.”

Jungkook snorts. “Well, we’ll decide at the restaurant then.”

“It’s not that expensive, is it?”

Jungkook gives Jimin a lingering look. It bothers him how Jimin worries about money in his presence.

Jimin lets out a breath. “So I’ll be going bankrupt after this?”

“Jimin,” Jungkook says assertively.

“Jungkook-ssi,” Jimin retorts, stressing the last part.

“In my presence, you won’t have to pay a single thing,” Jungkook tells him. “I invited you, so it’s on me.”

Jimin looks torn. “But I still owe you for the pizza you bought Juwon and the tutoring–”

Jungkook cuts him off by opening the door of the passenger seat (his mom and Seokjin raised him well, after all). “Get in,” he orders.

“Is that the CEO in you speaking?” Jimin teases, surprised by the sudden assertiveness.

“Yes.”

“Alright,” Jimin laughs, sliding into the seat. He looks at Jungkook who is still leaning on the door. “So that is why the tabloids call you Most Unapproachable–”

Jungkook leans inside, taking a hold of the seatbelt, spreading it over Jimin to fasten it. “Yeah?”

Jimin’s breath hitches, and he blinks. “Nothing.”

Jungkook can smell him from this close, the mild blockers not enough to conceal it. He stops himself from breathing it in deeply, scared it will trigger his own pheromones. “You secure?” he asks instead, his voice tight.

Jimin gives him a small nod, his hands clutching his bag. 

“Good.”

Jungkook shuts the door and walks around the hood. His heart pumps adrenaline through him. He tries to shake off the nervousness before slipping into the driver’s seat, but his heart only tightens when his gaze pans over to Jimin, who’s fixing his hair in the rearview mirror.

“Ready?” Jungkook asks, starting the car. “It’s a twenty-minute ride.”

“What about music?”

“You can play some if you’d like,” Jungkook suggests as he pulls out of the street and onto the main road.

“Don’t you have a playlist? I remember you put it on last time.”

“I was hoping you could show me some new recommendations of yours,” Jungkook confesses. 

Jimin’s brows go up. “Oh.” Then he grins. “Sure, I can do that. Is this you admitting you have no taste and that my taste is superb?”

Exaggeratedly, Jungkook says, “I work so much, I have no time for music–”

“Excuses!” Jimin laughs lightheartedly. “You’re probably the type to listen to the same songs and albums you listened to as a teenager.”

“I listened to a lot of Linkin Park,” Jungkook reveals. 

“Oh my Goddess?” Jimin’s face blooms. “I love Linkin Park! Let’s listen to some.” Without hesitating, Jimin connects with the bluetooth of Jungkook’s car. “This is so high-tech,” he mutters, “it feels like I entered the future.”

“By the way, is yours working fine still? No more problems?”

“No, thank the Goddess! I am so lucky, really.”

“Ah, I’m relieved,” Jungkook nods. “But… have you thought about getting a new one?”

“Maybe next year,” Jimin says absent-mindedly, trying to get the bluetooth to work.

“I see,” Jungkook says, nodding again. It sort of pains him that Jimin is…not a gold-digger. Well, Jimin isn’t even interested in him romantically. Jimin is living an earnest life and Jungkook unfortunately can’t force money down his throat. Buying him a new car isn’t in the realm of possibilities either, so Jungkook will have to settle with smaller acts of service.

“How many new cars do you get per year?” Jimin asks him, sounding a little critical.

“This year? None.”

“Before that?”

“Two, I think?”

“You think?”

“One was for my mother, the other was for me, yeah.”

“I see,” Jimin says slowly, before exclaiming, “Ah, it’s working!”

Linkin Park starts to blast through the car. 

Jungkook lets out a laugh at the choice. He hasn’t listened to any of their stuff in a while, so this album makes him feel nostalgic. “Goddess, I feel like I jumped back in time.”

“Some nostalgia for you right there,” Jimin says.

“Ah, I rarely ever reminisce.”

“Why?”

“I dunno. Nothing to really reminisce on, I guess.”

“Sounds like you’re running from the past,” Jimin says. 

Jungkook stays quiet for a second.

This seems to throw Jimin off. “Sorry, I– I can get blunt. I apologize.”

“No, you’re right. I am very good at running from things. I’m working on it. Don’t apologize for calling me out on it.”

“It’s not like I can’t relate,” Jimin sighs. In his peripheral vision, Jungkook sees Jimin shift and play with his fingers. “I told you a bit about my dark past, remember? I’m sure you can imagine I am also very good at avoiding the topic of past mistakes, trauma, sins—whatever you want to call it.”

“For me it’s that I… I don’t know. I look back at my life and suddenly get this feeling like I haven’t lived yet. I haven’t– Sorry, I’m ruining the mood before we even get to dessert.”

“We’re not even at the restaurant yet.”

Jimin’s looking at him. Jungkook can feel his cheeks take on color as he keeps his gaze stuck on the road, pretending to be very focused on driving. Five minutes into them “hanging out” and Jungkook already made it awkward.

“Also, you’re not ruining the mood,” Jimin says softly. “I get you. With Juwon sort of ambushing my life and completely changing me as a person… Yeah, I feel like I missed out on things. Mostly on being careless, having no responsibilities, not feeling like such an adult…”

“Hm,” Jungkook hums, a lump in his throat. He doesn’t know why it’s there. He wants to tell Jimin about his father and how Jungkook got where he is now, but should he? Should he bore Jimin with his shit?

Jimin is smirking now. “You’re red.”

Jungkook’s head turns. “What?”

“Are you hot? You did turn up the heating a whole lot.”

“Wh-what? No, I’m– I’m good. Not hot at all.”

He did turn up the heating for Jimin primarily and yes he’s definitely not cold, but the burning sensation on his face is entirely Jimin’s fault.

“Really? So your ears and cheeks are just red for another reason?”

Jungkook’s too flustered to really defend himself. He’s gaping like a fish, trying to piece together an actual sentence.

“Don’t worry, I’m just teasing,” Jimin chuckles warmly. 

“Are you– Are you hot though?” Jungkook stammers.

“Ah, I’m actually comfy like this. Your seats are very nice. I mean, it’s an expensive car, of course they’re nice.”

“I’m glad,” Jungkook says raspily. “I want you to be comfortable.”

“I am,” Jimin confirms.

“Cool,” Jungkook replies. “Coolcoolcool.”

He watches Jimin’s reaction as closely as possible while not neglecting the traffic in front of them, and it really pleases him how Jimin’s eyes widen and he throws a hand over his mouth, letting out an exasperated gasp. “So you did know the show when we were in the elevator!”

“Ah no,” Jungkook corrects, “but I checked it out after you mentioned it.”

“Did you like it? Please tell me you liked it!”

“Loved it,” Jungkook tells him. 

“Isn’t it such a comforting show?! It really got me through the early years with Juwon.”

“I can imagine.” 

Their eyes meet again. It is just for a second, but Jungkook’s heart is a freaking traitor and pumps more blood, making him flush. 

“You look younger like this, smiling and all that,” Jimin says quietly, brows drawn together as he assesses Jungkook. 

“I do?”

“Yeah,” he retorts breathily. Silence hits again, and Jungkook is glad he’s driving and not forced to hold Jimin’s gaze, for he would crumble and go up in flames beneath it like a vampire seeing their beloved sun for the first time.

“I mean,” Jimin goes on, “you’re wearing a suit, so of course you look like your sophisticated, rich, CEO self.”

“Did you just call me sophisticated?”

“It’s a compliment!” 

“You can never go wrong with a suit!” Jungkook shoots back. 

“Sure sure.”

“It’s all I possess.”

“You only have suits?!”

“Like… majority of my clothes are suits, yeah. Got them in all kinds of colors though.”

“Wow. Rich people really live differently.”

“Suits are so practical. So many advantages–”

Jimin turns up the music on purpose, shouting, “I can’t hear you!”

Jungkook shakes his head, chuckling quietly.  

Loudly, Jimin sings along to the songs he chooses to play. Jungkook ends up singing along too, feeling ten years younger. Jimin fuels him and cheers him on, pointing at him at certain parts of the songs he plays to indicate that they’re Jungkook’s parts to sing. 

Today, Jungkook promises himself, will be a good evening.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

They reach the restaurant without any difficulties, but Jungkook’s throat feels dry from all the wild singing. Thankfully, the parking lot is relatively empty, indicating the restaurant itself won’t be too crowded. Jungkook is glad. He was worried it might be too full, which would have made conversation difficult. 

Jimin is quiet as they walk up to the entrance. He inspects everything attentively, letting Jungkook do the talking. 

Inside, Jungkook tells the waitress he has a reservation and they get seated in the left corner of the restaurant, no other guests in direct vicinity to them.

The ambiance is comfortable. Jungkook loves coming here for that as well as the food. Burning candles and red and white checkered tablecloths can be found at every table. It smells of the tempting aromas of what’s to come, also reviving many of Jungkook’s memories related to this place.

“It’s really pretty,” Jimin comments in awe. “So cozy.”

“Not as snobby as you expected?”

“Significantly less snobby.”

“Told you so.

“Correction,” Jimin says, holding up one hand, “you didn’t tell me a single thing about the restaurant except that it was an Italian one.” Jimin grabs the menu, announcing, “And since you also said you’re paying, chaebol, I should order the most expensive thing from the menu.”

“Not a chaebol,” Jungkook corrects, “but yes to ordering the most expensive thing.”

He’s glad Jimin is perhaps finally realizing he can milk Jungkook for money.

Unfortunately, Jimin puts the menu down again right after. “Ah, I’m joking. I’ll order whatever you’ll order.”

“What? No. Order what you want.”

“Okay, but you have to tell me what’s good. You said you come here often, so I’m just gonna trust the expert."

Jungkook cocks his head to the side, thinking about what Jimin might like. “Well, the bruschetta is a must.”

“Okay, we’ll order it.”

“For the main course… hm. Pizza or pasta?”

“Pasta.”

“Okay.” He contemplates for a heartbeat, scanning the menu. “You should try the carbonara. You can never go wrong with that one.”

“Okay,” Jimin says, chin resting on his hand. “What will you order?”

You, if you were on the menu.

“Ah, maybe the carbonara as well.”

“Sounds good,” Jimin declares. “That way we can’t get jealous if the other person ends up getting the better option.”

“I mean, I’d switch if you liked mine better.” Without hesitation, in fact.

“Would you now?” Jimin inquires.

“Certainly.”

“I see, I see.”

“You want to order something else, don’t you?” Jungkook chuckles. “Come on, go ahead.”

Jimin ends up ordering a pasta with shrimp, and Jungkook almost hopes he will want to switch plates, just to fulfill his fantasy of giving Jimin the one he likes more. 

The bruschetta arrives first though, and Jungkook feels his pheromones building up when Jimin begins to praise the taste of them.

“These are really so good,” he says, pointing at the remaining ones. 

“Yeah?”

Jimin nods enthusiastically. “You should try them!”

“I am.”

“You’re just watching me eat!”

“Not true.”

Jungkook lets Jimin eat them all, pleased with just watching. His cheeks hurt. His cheeks have been hurting a lot recently from how hard he’s smiling around Jimin. 

Eventually, their pasta arrives. The smell is making Jungkook more hungry than he thought. 

“This looks amazing,” Jimin says to the waitress. “Thank you so much!”

“Hope you enjoy!” the waitress says politely before leaving the table again.

“Try it,” Jungkook commands. 

“I was about to!”

“Do you like it?” Jungkook asks impatiently, watching Jimin chew on his first bite. 

The omega swallows and huffs a laugh. “Yes, oh my Goddess! You are so fussy! The food is amazing!”

“You sure? You can order something else if it’s not to your liking or take my–”

Jimin takes Jungkook’s fork, sticks it into the alpha’s pasta and then grabs his hand, wrapping the fingers around it. “Eat.”

Too stunned to verbally react, Jungkook simply follows the omega’s demand. He’s obedient.

“Good, that’s better,” Jimin proclaims, grinning sheepishly. 

The praise makes Jungkook shift on the wooden stool. He hopes the candlelight hides the very faint hue his cheeks take on. 

“Sorry for basically shoving food into your mouth,” Jimin says with a nervous laugh. “I hate it when I’m eating alone and people are watching my reaction.”

Jungkook gulps down the content inside his mouth. “I get that. Sorry for being fussy.”

“Apology accepted.”

“It’s my lucky day.”

“Ahhh, is it now?”

Jungkook shrugs nonchalantly. “I’m eating pasta in my favorite restaurant with amazing company, so yes, it’s my lucky day.”

“It’s funny,” Jimin notes thoughtfully, “you had no favorite songs, no shows to watch, but you have a favorite restaurant. I need the story behind this place. Why is it so dear to you?”

“You really want me to bore you with sentimental recollections of my early-twenties self?”

“Right, I forgot you’re basically ancient already! A whole relic!” Jimin groans, rolling his eyes playfully. 

“Can’t believe thirty-four is ‘basically ancient’. I’m one foot in my grave already, or what?

“Indeed, you are. You probably have a coffin already picked out, huh?”

“Damn, you caught me.”

Jimin points at himself, tongue pushed against his cheek. “I’m just that good at deciphering people.”

“And here I was still under the impression I surprise you.”

Some of the humor falls off of Jimin. He halts, collecting himself. “It’s true,” he says solemnly, “you do.”

“What surprised you the most?” 

“You really want to know, huh?”

“Well, you also owe me an explanation for what you said yesterday, so.”

Jimin blinks. “What did I say yesterday?”

“You called me ‘an alpha like you’. I still need an elaboration.” 

Jimin puts his fork and knife down and shakes his head incredulously. “You’re greedy.”

“Maybe you’re making me greedy.”

“Well, you can only have one. Either I answer what surprised me most or what I meant by what I said yesterday.”

Jungkook leans back in his chair, licking over his teeth. “So we’re negotiating. Got it.”

“I don’t go easy during negotiations.”

“Do you, now?”

“Try negotiating with a seven-year-old who knows exactly how to wrap people around his tiny little pinky finger. You learn to be ruthless in order to protect your dignity.”

Jungkook’s eyes dart to Jimin’s hands. He imagines his hand against Jimin’s–

“Okay, which one is it, Jungkook-ssi? Time is running out. It’s now or never–”

“Second option.”

Jimin closes his mouth, leaning back. He doesn’t break eye contact for once. Opposite, actually; his gaze deepens, intensifying until Jungkook is the one who feels like he is quivering beneath it.

“Okay, I said it because you seem overly responsible.”

“Responsible?”

“Yes. Reliable. You seem like you know what you’re doing at all times. You are kind and compassionate too on top of that. You could be more arrogant, you know? With all you achieved, it wouldn’t be something anyone could fault you for. But you’re not. So I should take back what I said. You don’t really need humbling. I mean, I was teasing anyway and just said whatever. If I had to say something humbling to you, then I’d just call you a workaholic.”

Jungkook puts down his cutlery. He’s been nervous all day, wanting to appeal to Jimin in some way or another, despite knowing this is just a friendly meeting. In his state of hopelessness, he decided he’d be the best friend Jimin ever had. Not with the intention of dethroning or replacing Taehyung—although he doubts Jimin is the type to assign favorites—but with the intention of making himself irreplaceable. 

Being honest, being authentic, being raw— but Jungkook isn’t even honest to himself most of the time. 

Jimin, the perceptive person he is, goes, “Oh. I didn’t mean to hit a nerve. Did I?”

“No,” Jungkook says quickly, “I only recently had this realization that my lifestyle is quite…jarring. That I’m more unhappy than I thought. I love working and I love my job, feeling like I’m making somewhat of a difference, but I had to acknowledge that this job isn’t fulfilling every area of my life.”

“It doesn’t replace personal relationships, you mean.”

“Exactly,” Jungkook nods. “And I… I haven’t been the best when it comes to making people around me feel valued.”

Jimin has his head tilted to the side, indicating that he’s willing to listen. 

“So, yeah, you’d be right to say I’m a workaholic.”

“During my relationship with Changwon, I neglected everyone around me. I think I told you already, but looking back on it… I really despise the person I was with him. The person I let him turn me into."

“You were young and vulnerable. It wasn’t your fault.”

“It felt like it was. That I should have pulled myself out of it before any of it ever happened.”

“Don’t be so hard on yourself. It’s easy to look back and say that, but when you were living through it, it must have felt very different.”

Jimin jerks his chin at him. “Same goes for you.”

Jungkook opens his mouth to say something, but nothing comes out.

“You can also be kind to yourself,” Jimin says soothingly. “I promise it's okay. I know it is.”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

They talk for three hours. They get dessert. Jimin drinks some wine. Jungkook sticks to water (since he’s driving). They laugh. They smile. They chuckle. They joke around. 

Jungkook feels dizzy, high on the moment and on the night air as they head out after he paid for their dinner (he made sure to tip well). There’s a perpetual grin glued to his face. Joy sings in his chest, butterflies have made themselves a home in his belly.

Jimin playfully nudges his shoulder on the way to Jungkook’s car, both of them taking their time, prolonging the end of this evening.

To get a few more minutes with Jimin before he will drive him back home, Jungkook makes his last move. He grabs the pack of cigarettes he keeps in the inside of his pocket. “Care to share one with me?”

Jimin snorts immediately. “I can’t believe you’re doing this to me!”

Unperturbed, Jungkook gets one from the pack, puts it between his teeth and lights it. He takes one drag before giving it to Jimin, making a gesture that indicates he should take it.

Jimin looks hesitant but then groans and takes it. “These are the good ones too,” he sighs. “You’re such a bad influence, really.”

Jungkook watches as Jimin takes a drag, blowing out the smoke right after. “Here, take it back. I can only do one. Juwon doesn’t like the smell.”

Jungkook halts. “Fuck, should I–”

“No, no, you’re good. I mean, it’s not like I waltzed around in your clothes. The smell won’t be there when I get home.”

“You sure?”

“Very sure.”

Jungkook takes a second drag, feeling Jimin’s amused gaze on him. Being watched by Jimin—it’s exhilarating. Today, he received so much direct, unbridled attention from the omega, he’ll be feeding off of this memory for years to come.

“When did you start smoking?” Jimin inquires now, obviously curious, “Highschool? College?”

“Quite late, to be honest,” Jungkook reveals, letting out a dry laugh at the memory. “After college.”

“Oh, tell me more?”

“I was a goody-two-shoes most of my life.”

“I believe it.”

Jungkook’s brows fly up. “You do?”

“You basically radiate responsibility and perfectionism. Oh, and you reek of ambition. I wouldn’t be surprised if you suffered from a chronic need of academic validation most of your life.”

Jungkook’s mouth opens and then closes.

Jimin pats his shoulder in faux empathy. “It’s okay. We’ve all been rendered speechless before.”

“I think this actually qualifies as defamation. Hearsay. Blasphemy.”

“Does it? Is it defamation if it’s the truth?”

“With the right lawyer it is.”

“Damn,” Jimin caves. “Okay, you won. Money wins.”

“Speaking about lawyers,” Jungkook says, coming back to the original topic. “It was Yoongi hyung who got me into smoking. He gifted me a pack one day and just told me to start smoking since I needed the stress relief according to him. It was a year after I founded GAT.” He pauses for a second. “Also, yes, you’re allowed to laugh.”

Jimin clearly thinks it’s hilarious but chooses to suppress his laughter. “He’s a good friend. It was his way of looking out for you.”

“I honestly don’t know,” Jungkook says thoughtfully, “sometimes I think he just didn’t want to be the only smoker in our group because he always got shit for it from Seokjin hyung. Especially after their break up.”

“So it was a tactical move and you were just a means to an end in their war of roses.”

“Fuck.”

“You’re only now realizing?”

“I really got played, huh?” Jungkook scoffs. “Wow.”

“Happens to the best of us.”

“Right?” Jungkook says desperately. “Right?”

Jimin’s smile deepens and he tries to hide it, but one narrowed look from Jungkook and the omega is breaking out in boisterous laughter. He’s laughing so hard, he holds onto Jungkook for leverage, and sways both of them from left to right.

Naturally, Jungkook can’t help but grin too, letting Jimin tear and tug on him as he calms down from his laughter. 

It’s ridiculously cold outside, so Jungkook flinches when Jimin’s even colder hand touches his bare skin. 

“You’re shivering,” Jimin whispers, suddenly noticing Jungkook’s clattering teeth.

“My alpha-ness is leaving me. The cold has won and my ancestors are howling at the Goddess in the moon as we speak.”

Jimin cackles again, playfully slapping Jungkook. “I wish I was cold.”

“You’re not?”

“The heat problems are making me burn up sometimes. Now is one of those times.”

“That’s still going on?” Jungkook hadn’t forgotten about it, he just thought it got better. He also didn’t feel like it was his place to question or prod Jimin about it. 

“It’s getting better. Uhm, there’s something that’s helping so… Yeah.” He looks a bit shy as he tells Jungkook this, biting his lip.

“I’m glad,” Jungkook says sincerely. “I can’t imagine how horrible it was to deal with this.”

“Well, maybe I’ll finally have regular heats again now, haha.” Jimin laughs sarcastically, making a peace sign to cover up the fact that he just said that.

If Jungkook was immature, he’d blush now. Instead, he says, “I think Juwon got the peace sign thing from you.”

“What? No! Oh Goddess, did he really?!”

“Well,” Jungkook says smugly, “looks like we both reached some groundbreaking conclusions today that need some emotional reflection.”

“Seems like we did, yeah,” Jimin murmurs, his eyes softening.

Jungkook’s teeth chattering is the only sound between them. 

There was a time Jungkook hated silence, yet he needed it to make sure he wouldn’t miss his mom having a nightmare. 

Then, slowly, like getting accustomed to chronic pain, he got used to it. He’s comfortable in it. But then, upon meeting Jimin again, he chose to fill his silence with the songs Jimin recommended to him, and now he’s choosing to not fill it with the unspoken words that linger in the back of his throat, knowing if he uttered them, Jimin would run away. 

He can see the hesitation in Jimin’s eyes. He can see that Jimin’s been hurt before. That he’s more fragile and vulnerable than he lets on. 

A snowflake lands right on the tip of Jimin’s nose, eliciting a tender smile from Jungkook. “It’s snowing. First snow of the year,” he whispers, lifting his hand to remove the snowflake from Jimin’s nose.

Before he can do so, Jimin is suddenly hugging him. 

And just like that Jungkook isn’t shivering anymore. 

It’s their first hug. The first time Jungkook experiences the omega throwing his arms around him, embracing him with a sincerity he didn’t expect. He wasn’t prepared for it either. And how could he?

“Thank you for this evening,” Jimin mumbles into the crook of his neck. 

Jungkook is stock-still, unable to reciprocate.

“I haven’t had this much fun in a while,” Jimin confesses. “I’m trying not to cry right now. Which is why I’m hugging you, because if I–”

Jungkook drops the half-smoked cigarette, stomps on it to extinguish it, and then wraps his arms around Jimin, hugging him back with everything he has. “It was my pleasure,” he says deeply, breathing in Jimin’s scent. 

And for a while, they just stand there as the snow falls, breathing in each other’s layered scents consisting of a million unsaid things, holding each other without any tentativeness or inhibitions.

For a moment in time, the world is good. 

It makes Jungkook recall a line from Tennyson. He should make sure to remember this and not let it slip through the cracks in his memory again. He’ll need it later. 

‘Tis better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all.

Chapter Text

mood board by @Jiminszephyr

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

23.11.24, 23:01PM posted by @riAhriahHri in r/JeonJungkook

Y’all. Y’ALL. You have no fucking idea who just came to the restaurant I work at. I almost fainted and had to hide in the bathroom because I couldn’t keep it together. I served them and kwjcnouvbwoia fuck I still cant breathe

Soo… JJK and mysterious blonde omega Jimin @miraeTM and @Tehee23yolo  are SO FUCKING!!!!!!!!! Like you should have seen the way this alpha looked at him

#howtobeJimin

2456 likes 556 shares 405 comments

@jikookshit4lyfe: I FUCKING KNEW IT!!! I’VE BEEN SHIPPING THEM SO HARD AHHH!!!

@jiminmie: I’m Jimin, but not /his/ Jimin * cries *

@ddrkive: you guys… as an Indigo stan, did you know that Jeon Jungkook is friends with Kim Seokjin and Kim Namjoon??? They literally all appear in an MV from like 2013 together!

—-@sugamylxve: LINK???? PLEASE??? I NEED TO SEE THAT

@mlmnow2: I wish I could have seen that with my own two eyes

@miraeTM: AHHHHHHHHHHHH NO WAY OMG

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Jungkook removes the black sunglasses (an old gift from Seokjin) from his face upon getting noticed by the police officers within the station. Juri is on standby at the company, waiting for Jungkook’s call in case things go awry. At least those were her words when Jungkook told her this morning he would use his precious twenty-minute lunch break to ask the police officer for forgiveness. 

He could punch you, she had said. Or threaten to go to the paparazzi.

I’m not a celebrity, Jungkook had snorted.

Uh, sajang-nim, in certain realms you certainly are a celebrity, Juri’s intern, Shelmy-something (Jungkook cannot remember the name, for the love of Goddess) had corrected.

Where? Among fellow medical engineers, maybe.

Sheila, or whatever she is called, had laughed shyly and not corrected Jungkook’s assumption.

Either way, Jungkook is convinced his trip to the station without a legal counsel won’t have any negative repercussions. He’s been doing this for long enough to know how to utilize the professional facade of a CEO who knows how to work people. Also, asking Yoongi to accompany him would have been utterly humiliating for Jungkook. The lawyer alpha would have never let him live this down.

“Hello,” Jungkook says calmly, looking straight at the cop who paused in the middle of the station, a half-empty mug in his hand with black coffee in it.

“I am Jeon–”

“Jeon Jungkook?!” a shrill voice exclaims, followed by a loud bang which sounds oddly similar to what Jungkook imagines the sound of someone throwing their body against the bars of a cell is like.

Jungkook flinches and the cop in front of him spills his coffee, muttering a million apologies because most of it lands on Jungkook’s shoes. 

“What was tha–"

“I am so sorry, oh Goddess,” the cop splutters, going down on his knees to wipe the coffee from Jungkook’s shoes with the cuffs of his uniform.

“It’s– It’s alright. I am actually here to talk to Officer Kim Janghun,” Jungkook tries, stepping away from the cop frantically wiping over his shoes. 

“Janghun?!”

“Yes, is he here?”

“Oh, yeah, he um– He’s in the room in the back,” the cop stammers, turning around frantically, pointing towards a room in the back.

“Okay, can I go there?” Jungkook wonders, looking down on the cop.

“Sajang-nim, of course. You can go anywhere you like!”

“Okay…” 

Jungkook awkwardly steps over the kneeling cop, heading for the back room. 

“JEON JUNGKOOK!” a shrill voice repeats, followed by more aggressive banging. 

A shiver runs down Jungkook’s spine as he looks into the direction of the cells, spotting a head of blonde hair peeking out between the cell bars.

“I’M OVER HERE!”

Jungkook is slightly disturbed, his hand going towards his phone in his pocket. Maybe he should have brought Juri after all.

Desperate to flee the scene, Jungkook enters the room in the back that the cop pointed at.

Inside, he does actually find Kim Janghun, the police officer who almost got fired because of him. The alpha is gawking at him, a half-eaten sandwich in his frozen hand.

Jungkook gathers his composure (and his imaginative coolness) and asks, “Officer Kim Janghun?”

In slow motion, Janghun nods. 

Jungkook points outside. “Uh, do I need to know why there’s someone screaming my name in a cell?”

“There’s someone screaming your name?”

“Yeah, outside…”

“Uhm.” Janghun seems to gulp.

“Well,” Jungkook clears his throat. “I’m here on different matters.”

Janghun blinks rapidly and rushes to say, “You have to know I am terribly sorry for how I treated you–”

“Oh, please,” Jungkook cuts in. “It’s me who has to apologize. That’s why I’m here. I hope you were reinstated right away and the pay cut was revoked?”

“That was you?!” Janghun gapes, dropping his sandwich.

“Ah yeah, I called the commissioner. Well, his mate.”

“Oh. Wow. You are so cool.”

“Yes, I– Oh, thanks,” Jungkook says, feeling oddly flattered. “I didn’t feel cool after what happened though. So I’m here to apologize to you and hope we can move forward on good terms.”

“You’re–” Janghun almost chokes on air. “You’re here to apologize to me?”

“Yes, it was not my intention to cause trouble for you. You only did your job.”

Janghun’s eyes are bulging out of his head. “I’m– I don’t know what to say.”

“I read your card,” Jungkook says. “It was very touching, albeit it also made me feel very shitty.” Jungkook takes out the card he and Juri wrote out of his coat. “Here, uhm… My assistant and I wrote you an apology as well.” He had to force Juri to add her signature down below. She’s got quite the ego sometimes. 

With a shaky hand, Janghun accepts the envelope. His mouth is still hanging open in shock.

Jungkook bows slightly. “So, yeah, just wanted to drop this off. And… there’s my card in there, so if you ever need a favor, feel free to give me a call.”

“A favor?” Janghun breathes.

“Yeah, anything.”

Janghun seems to blush. “Oh…”

“Is there something you want? Come on, tell me. I need to repay you for this mess, Janghun-ssi.”

Jungkook feels eager to fix this situation, but the next words that come out of Janghun’s mouth make him lose his polite smile

“Could you get me an autograph from Kim Seokjin?” Janghun requests, his voice trembling with excitement.

Jungkook mentally curses Seokjin. He hasn’t spoken to him since their little argument and now he’ll have to come crawling for an autograph. Seokjin will never let him live this down. 

“Yes,” Jungkook reluctantly confirms to Janghun, “I can do that. No problem. Just… give me some time, yeah?”

“Really?!” Janghun jumps up and pulls Jungkook into a bone-crushing hug. “You are so cool, hyung. Can I call you that? Hyung?”

Jungkook finds himself nodding slowly, questioning his life. He didn’t realize the cop’s personality would shine through so much.

Janghun is grinning so hard, Jungkook is worried for his facial muscles. “I am so happy right now. Arresting you was the best decision I’ve ever made in my life, wow!”

Jungkook nods awkwardly. “Haha,” he laughs, “that’s funny.” He claps Janghun’s shoulder. “I have to head out now, okay? It was nice talking to you. I’ll make sure Seokjin’s autograph finds its way to you.”

“You are so cool,” Janghun cries again.

Jungkook walks backwards towards the door, keeping a polite and slightly strained smile on his face.

When he’s already halfway out the door, Janghun calls out, “By the way, hyung, I am rooting for you and Jimin-ssi!”

Jungkook freezes for a second, wondering how the hell Janghun knows he is into Jimin. Fuck, is he that obvious? Even to a police officer who only saw him once?!

“Invite me to your mating ceremony, hyung!” Janghun yells after him as Jungkook flees the station, his shoes ruined from instant coffee and his mind in distress.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

25.11.24, 2:12PM posted by @KaiCoolCuffs in r/JeonJungkook

Hey I’m back! This time I’m not here to whine but to brag! Jeon Jungkook is so fucking cool. He’s getting me Kim Seokjin autographs, I’m actually so fucking luckyyyy. 

Also for all the shippers here: I told him I was rooting for him and Jimin. Hope y’all are happy to hear that he seemed very thankful 

Oh, there was also this weirdo we had arrested earlier for trespassing who recognized Jeon Jungkook and kept screaming his name, jeez you guys are wild! I’m lowkey worried one of you will ambush JJK in public if this forum keeps getting more attention

201 likes 45 shares 38 comments

@PerlyciOuzMel: bro, weren’t you suspended? What the hell

—-@KaiCoolCuffs oh, yeah I was, but JJK took care of that!

—-@PerlyciOuzMel: he WHAT?

—-@ KaiCoolCuffs: he’s really fucking nice, let me tell ya

—-@PerlyciOuzMel: Damn, so the tsundere rumors are so true, omg, I’m gonna scream skskskskicrogio3wneoirbb

@Shelli_Shanks: Hey, I sent you a DM, please reply! We should chat, Kai!

@PatMpBofill87: DOING THE GODDESS’ WORK!!! YESSSS I NEED JIKOOK TO HAVE 2848822 BABIES AND A MATING CEREMONY IN THE TOSCANA OR STH

@jungjireal: how in the whole wide world is anyone believing this knothead’s story? There’s no proof for any of this, hello? It feels kind of like defamatory towards JJK… maybe it’s just me?

@Mochiilights: asking for KSJ autographs omg, you’re so real for that! share with the crowd once you got them oh ma gauuuud

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Joohyun comes running out of the airport terminal with two huge suitcases and a big, fat grin on her oval-shaped face that she got from their mother. “Oppa!” she exclaims cheerfully, waving excitedly before sprinting towards Jungkook as fast as possible.

It’s Monday noon and Jungkook pushed back an important meeting to be here, picking up his baby sister from the airport.

She spontaneously decided to push forward her trip to Korea and spend the whole month of December here. Apparently, she is able to work remotely for this month. 

She’s looking more American than Jungkook remembers from last year, but that isn’t the real issue. The real issue is the fact that she looks even more grown up. She has a bob now that frames her face perfectly, giving her a put-together vibe. She looks professional. Did she lose the last bits of baby fat on her face? Goddess, Jungkook is devastated.

“Open up your damn arms!” she demands upon arriving at the spot Jungkook was waiting at, abandoning her two suitcases without a care in the world. 

Jungkook does as requested, letting his sister fall into his arms. Her face is squished against his chest, and he squeezes her, resting his chin on top of her head before heaving her up, making her squeal while he twirls them around. 

“Let me down!” she exclaims, punching his back. “You always do this! Ugh, I hate you!”

“You love me.” Jungkook has a shit-eating grin on his face when he puts her down again. “You know yet you hug me anyway.”

“I hug my brother once a year, so I have to take the risks, you know.”

“Touché.”

They grin at each other, acknowledging the fact that even though they haven’t seen one another in a long time not much seems to have changed between them. This is a comfort to Jungkook he might never admit to her.

“I hope you know I am ready to jump into bed, sleep and not be disturbed for ten hours,” Joohyun says, narrowing his gaze.

“Eomma thinks you’re coming tomorrow. So you’re all good.” 

For a few years now, he and Joohyun have kept Joohyun’s actual arrival a secret to make sure Joohyun can get some rest before family activities (from which Jungkook is mostly excluded due to work) begin. This only works because their mother despises airports and only graces them with her presence when it’s time to fly somewhere first class. Therefore she never insists on picking Joohyun up. That is Jungkook’s job, and although he sucks at making it to most family events, he does make sure Joohyun can always look forward to spotting him in the crowd at airports, waiting for her.

One time he printed out a sign for her too, holding it up high above his head, making her cover her face in embarrassment as she walked towards him. He was then prohibited from ever doing that again.

Joohyun presses a kiss to his cheek. “You’re the best. Now, personal driver, take me to your place of heaven!”

Another thing that has become a ritual is Joohyun spending the first night at Jungkook’s place, sleeping in one of his unused guestrooms. They usually drink beer and some expensive liquor Joohyun finds in Jungkook’s cellar and proceed to reminisce about the old days. Sometimes they even watch a movie or play a game. But mostly they just get drunk together and indulge the nostalgia. 

“I have beer at home,” Jungkook tells her as they head towards his car. “I made sure to buy it yesterday evening. It’s from this convenience store down the–”

She cuts him off, pointing at Jungkook’s parking spot choice. “You parked here? Doesn’t parking cost like half a kidney for like one minute?” 

She gasps, watching Jungkook pay the unreasonable high ticket.

“Well, you forget your brother is rich.”

“Oppa, no offense, but actual rich people know how to invest their money.”

“Your actually-rich oppa paid for your damn plane ticket.”

“Will you buy me a Birkin for Christmas, actually-rich oppa?” Joohyun says then, sticking out her lips in a pout.

Jungkook makes a mental note to have Juri put that on the list of Christmas presents. He’s sure she can figure out where to get a Birkin. 

“Yes,” he says, “whatever that might be.”

“It’s a bag, oppa. A bag. Could be a new family heirloom.”

“Since when do you like luxury bags?” Jungkook wonders, loading up Juri’s luggage in his trunk. His back strains. “Fuck, these weigh a ton. Did you pack your entire life in these?”

“I’ll be here for a month. How am I supposed to pack light for that?”

“You have a whole closet at eomma’s place. And one at my place that has collected dust.”

“Can’t a girl have hobbies?” she asks sassily. 

Jungkook rolls his eyes, opening the passenger seat door for her. “Get in, princess.”

She tucks her brown hair behind her ear. “You’re kinda sweet when you behave right, oppa.”

Jungkook leaves that uncommented and heads to the driver’s side. 

“Okay, we have to hurry up, I gotta get back to work,” Jungkook tells Joohyun as soon as he starts the car.

Her reaction is as expected. “Ditching me for work already?”

“Yes,” Jungkook sighs, “I’m horrible, I know. But I can’t just drop everything and let my company go down the drain because I decided to not fulfill my responsibilities.”

“I know, I know,” Joohyun says, replying with a sigh of her own. “You’re crazy and you’re running a company.”

“I’ll try to switch to my setup at home after doing some stuff at the office,” Jungkook tries to assuage.

“It gives me time to rummage your fridge.”

Jungkook gives her a blank stare. “Well… you should order food instead. I’ll pay for it.”

“It’s still empty?! You still act like a bachelor alpha right out of college in your thirties, oppa?!”

“Eomma’s kimchi is in there. I guess a few sauces and some instant stuff too. I don’t know, sometimes Seokjin brings stuff over.”

“Seokjin oppa cooks?” She looks very skeptical of this.

“Well, he has his phases.”

“And it tastes good?”

“I got food poisoning twice, so no.”

Joohyun snorts. “That’s what I thought.”

“Don’t tell him I said this; he’ll strangle me.”

“Hm, oppa, I have so much leverage on you…” She smirks smugly, and then proceeds to fix her lipstick in the mirror. “This color is gorgeous on me, don’t you think?”

“Yes, you’re the most beautiful sister in the whole world,” he says automatically, not having really looked at her lipstick once. 

“By the way,” she then says, “eomma said she is angry at you because you didn’t want to meet one of her rich friends’ brat children? Whatever that was about… I sighed when she called me and changed topics.”

A heavy weight returns to Jungkook’s chest, recalling that situation from last week. “Yeah."

“She didn’t give me much details because she knows I hate that she keeps forcing you to go on these stupid ass dates. It’s so idiotic.”

“I haven’t talked to eomma since I blew up in her face,” Jungkook admits. “I texted her you’d come tomorrow, but… Yeah, I haven’t been able to swallow my anger yet. I was rude. But I… It was too much. It felt like she didn’t see me as a person anymore, only as someone to mate off. Like I’m a pawn in her chess game with her chaebol friends.”

“Oppa,” Joohyun says gently. “You know you’re not. I’m glad you snapped at her. She had to hear it. She really did.”

“I told her she’s not a good mother,” he confesses, realizing how guilty he felt about it.

Joohyun is the only person who’ll understand—who can perhaps even relate. She was young when their father died, yet she was old enough to remember the details of the indescribable grief that had befallen their mother. 

They both understand that grief, but they also understand what a toll it took on their relationship with their mother.

Jungkook tried to direct most of his resentment towards his father. He was dead, so he wouldn’t mind anyway, right?

“She wasn’t for a while when appa died, but the way she is behaving towards you… Yeah, she’s not a good mother at the moment,” Joohyun says tightly. “I’m glad you told her. Maybe she’ll come to her senses. Do you want me to bring it up to her?”

“And drag you into my mess? No, Joohyun-ah.”

“What? I can’t defend my older brother?”

“It’s not about defending, it’s–”

“Stop trying to fight every damn battle alone, oppa. You have people on your side. You can allow yourself some grace from time to time and let others protect you and be kind to you. The chronic altruism won’t last forever. It’s pissing me off.”

“You sound like–” Jimin.

“Like who?”

“Ah, like someone I know.”

Joohyun gives him a dubious look. “You know, like, four people. So, who of them?”

“I know more than just four people, excuse you.”

“Whatever, loser,” Joohyun says, rolling her eyes. 

“You’re the loser.”

“No, but,” she begins, solemn again, “you can be angry at her, oppa. I don’t know how you were able to make it this long without exploding at her. Goddess knows I wouldn’t have endured this shit longer than two seconds.”

“Her attempts were genuine. She– I don’t know, Joohyun-ah, I think she was scared for me. Worried.”

“About what? You being mated to your job and not giving her grandpups?”

“Well, I’m thirty-four.”

“You act like you’re fifty.”

“I guess I just understand where she was coming from although the execution irritated me, of course.”

“You’re such a type nine,” she groans, rolling her eyes.

“Such a what?”

“Whatever, you don’t know it.” In English, she says, “ Uncultereeed.”

“Is this a pop culture reference?” Jungkook bemoans. 

“No, but please take the test I just sent you.”

Indeed, his phone lights with a text, Joohyun’s name appearing on the screen, a link attached to it. Thankfully, they stop at a red light briefly, giving Jungkook some time to at least open the text and realize Joohyun sent him a link to a personality test.

He groans. “The things I do for love…”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

The morning after getting drunk with Joohyun, Jungkook wakes up to ten new texts on his phone.

One of the texts is from Seokjin; a provocative couple pic with Taehyung while they’re standing on some beach, Seokjin basically eating the alpha’s face. It doesn’t look extremely hot in Croatia at this time of the year, but it’s certainly hotter than in Korea right now. Jungkook is kind of jealous. The weather here has been worsening, dropping in degrees day by day. 

Out of pettiness, and since he and Seokjin aren’t exactly on speaking terms right now, Jungkook only sends a passive-aggressive thumbs up back. 

The other texts are much more interesting since they’re from Jimin. Well, they’re audio messages. Curious, Jungkook opens the first one. 

“Hellooooooo,” a young voice says into the phone, surprising him, “it’s me, Juwon. I stole appa’s phone, hahaha. He’s taking a shower right now. Hyunggggg, can we hang out soon? I have new–”

The message cuts off. Jungkook is already grinning widely, pressing on the next one. “I wanted to say that I have new Lego. I bought it with my own money! I built a new dragon, so now I have two. I will send you a picture, hyung.

The next five texts are pictures of Juwon’s new green Lego dragon. There’s a solo shot, and then ones where the two dragons are right next to each other, positioned to make them look like they are interacting. 

Jungkook is smiling from ear to ear, checking each photo individually. The last one is a selfie of Juwon and his new dragon, grinning widely. His bunny teeth come out perfectly. He looks absolutely adorable. 

“Why are you smiling at your phone like that?”

Joohyun’s voice takes him by surprise so badly Jungkook drops his phone on his face. It lands right on his nose, making him wince.

Joohyun snorts, leaning against his door frame. “I’ve never seen you smile like that, oppa.”

“It was just a funny video,” Jungkook says, scrambling for an excuse. “What are you doing here? You’re up really early.”

“Jetlag, remember?”

“We drank so much, you are usually knocked out for at least ten hours afterwards."

Jungkook is glad he was able to tone it down a notch and not wake up hungover, just sleep-deprived. He has to work all day, after all. When he was younger, he used to be able to do that even after ruining his liver, but since he turned thirty, he’s been hanging on by a thread.

“Well,” she says, sauntering through Jungkook’s spacious bedroom, heading for the only piece of furniture next to Jungkook’s bed and nightstand; a drawer in front of the window. “Do you still keep a stash of cigarettes in here?”

Jungkook sits up in bed. “Hey, don’t–”

She opens it, finding his stash of cigarettes indeed. Shamelessly, she grabs one of the new unopened packs. “I’ll steal one, okay?”

Similar to him, Joohyun smokes every now and then. Still, as the older brother, Jungkook feels a responsibility to scold her. “You shouldn’t smoke,” he nags.

“Says you, who probably smokes way more than me!”

“Well, I will probably die early from stress anyway.”

“I doubt it,” she retorts, rolling her eyes at him. Her hair is still messy, indicating she didn’t look in the mirror after waking up. It reminds Jungkook of how things used to be. Back in the day it was him—whenever he was home from college, that is—who would braid her hair before school, making sure it looked presentable. 

“So, thank you for these,” she says, smirking at the pack of cigarettes. “I will make good use of these when eomma inevitably stresses me out while we do Christmas shopping.”

“When will you go?”

“Hm, Friday maybe?”

“Okay, I’ll try to clear my schedule.”

Her brows shoot up. “Oh? Is that so?”

“Don’t act so surprised. I told you, I wanted to spend more time with you!”

She points at him. “You ditched me yesterday after dropping me off to go back to work!”

“You had Catherine to keep you company,” Jungkook reminds her. “And I finished early to come back home and have a drink with you!”

Goddess, he missed the bantering. He missed fighting with her over useless (or not so useless) things.

“Right, right, nine pm is early,” she mocks, heading back to the door. “I’m going to take a shower now and wonder if you’re a type 3 or a type 9, oppa.”

“I still don’t know what you mean by that.”

“And you’re not supposed to! Also, you haven’t taken the damn test yet!”

Bantering, as he said. 

“You’re so annoying,” Jungkook groans, putting some extra sass into it. 

“And you’re a loser!” she yells back, slamming his door on her way out.

Yep, feels like they’re eighteen and nine years old again. The age gap was always there, but Jungkook likes to believe he never let his sister stray too far away. With all the ways he’s distant, he hopes it’ll never make her feel unloved. 

“I love you too,” he mumbles to himself, falling back in bed, grabbing his phone again to take a second look at the pictures Juwon sent from Jimin’s phone.

Jungkook 7:12AM 

They look great, Juwon. I am so jealous! Thank you for showing them to me!

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

A little later that same day, Jimin—actually Jimin this time—texts him back.

Jimin, 11:03AM

I CANNOT BELIEVE JUWON STOLE MY PHONE OH MY GODDESS–

I AM SO SORRY!!!

man, the pictures he sent are cute as fuck though!

Ah, my baby

Jungkook is grinning immediately, turning his chair away from his desk. He does something nerve-wrecking and impulsive then; he calls Jimin. To his utter freaking surprise, Jimin picks up. 

“Mr. Workaholic calling me in the middle of the day? To what do I owe this surprise?”

“I’m at work and bored. Also, I saw your text.”

“Me too,” Jimin sighs.

“You’re here?!” Jungkook gasps, wondering why the hell Juri didn’t say anything.

“No, other job, silly.” 

“I can’t believe you have another job.”

“Are you whining right now?” Jimin laughs. “Is this you whining, alpha?”

Everything in Jungkook comes to a screeching halt. His mind shuts down, his hands freeze, his heart stumbles because it’s frail and brittle and hopeless. 

Alpha.

“Are you there?” Jimin asks, sounding slightly worried.

“Oh, yeah, sorry,” Jungkook hurries to say, scared of Jimin hanging up. 

“I thought the connection was gone. You were so quiet suddenly.”

“No, I– I got distracted by something, sorry.”

“By what?” Jimin wonders.

“Oh, you know… data.”

“Data,” Jimin repeats slowly. “I see.”

“Very boring data,” Jungkook insists, trying to save his image.

“Hmm, I see. Very boring.”

“Yeah…”

“So, why’d you call me? Be honest.”

“Ah… I saw your text,” Jungkook says, gulping. Why does Jimin make him so goddessdamn nervous?

“And it made you want to call me?” Jimin asks teasingly.

“Is that so wrong? What if I wanted to hear your voice?” Jungkook jumps in on the teasing.

“Are you sure you didn’t call to ask me for Juwon’s dragon? You seem to like it a lot based on your reactions to his text.”

“The pictures were so adorable, how could I not give him a gratuitous reaction?”

“He told me, you know,” Jimin laughs softly, his voice always full of love when bringing up his son. “He said something about it offhandedly this morning like, oh, I was on your phone, appa. I thought he just took some pictures, ‘cause he does that sometimes, and then I checked my texts and saw our chat and… well, rest is history.”

“It was very sweet of him.”

“You think so?”

“A hundred percent.”

“You don’t think he’s annoying?”

“Annoying? Why would he be annoying?” Jungkook wonders, genuinely confused by the absurd question.

“Oh," Jimin says, “no reason. I know not everyone likes pups.”

“I don’t like all pups, but I like your pup.”

“Oh,” Jimin breathes faintly.

“Anyway,” Jungkook says immediately, knowing he probably took it too far with the flirting. “How are you today?”

“Actively avoiding work by talking to you on the phone, and you?”

“The same. I have so much data to go over, but I’d rather talk to you.”

“Is that so?” Jimin laughs warmly.

“Yes, by now you should have realized I can hold a conversation.” And that I love and adore and cherish talking to you.

“Oh, you’re not half bad,” Jimin says graciously. 

“Half-bad?” Jungkook pretends to be offended.

“You have awkward pauses every now and then, but you make it up by being sweet,” Jimin says.

One of said awkward pauses happens right then and there as Jungkook tries to comprehend what is sweet about him. Or warm, as Jimin said the other week. 

“You think I’m sweet?” Jungkook says with a rough laugh, pretending this isn’t completely challenging the perception he has of himself. Maybe Joohyun’s stupid test was correct, after all?

“You sound surprised?”

“Oh, just by a whole lot.”

“You don’t think you’re actually cold, do you?”

“I don’t know, you tell me,” Jungkook rasps.

“Is this a new side of you? Are you trying to appeal to me?” Jimin says jokingly. In the background, Jungkook now hears loud sounds, as if there was some construction going on. 

“What if I was? Is it working?”

Jimin is silent for a moment. Then, “Shoot, Jungkook, I have to go. My client is here.”

“I’m your client,” Jungkook says, pouting to himself.

“Well, you’re my other client. This current client is walking through the door of the venue right now and she has high expectations, meaning I gotta suck up to her now, meaning I have to hang up now. This event is paying well, so I really can’t mess up by talking to other clients in front of her.”

Something like jealousy zaps through Jungkook, making him feel inadequate. Goddess, he’s now jealous of other clients taking up Jimin’s time? How utterly childish.

“How much do they pay?” he asks Jimin. “I can pay more.”

The connection actually seems to cut off for a second and Jimin returns with, “Sorry, I didn’t catch that. What did you say?”

“Feel free to send more pictures of Juwon and his Lego,” Jungkook tells him instead of begging Jimin to take his damn money. 

Really, what does he have all this money for if not to spend it on someone?

Jimin chuckles lightly. “Haha, maybe.” The sound of his name being called echoes through the line. “Bye, Jungkook-ssi,” Jimin says in a hushed tone before hanging up, leaving Jungkook yearning for more.

Is he delusional or was Jimin flirty? 

Or was he just friendly? The way friends are friendly? The way friends tease? 

Do friends talk this way? Goddess, Jungkook has no idea. 

Whatever. He shouldn’t be thinking about this now.

He puts his phone down and reluctantly dedicates himself to data and emails again. The freaking emails never stop.

After answering two of the never-ending emails, Jimin sends another text.

Jimin, 11:27AM

By the way, Taehyung told me you didn’t snitch him and his affair with Kim Seokjin out to me. I feel betrayed!!!!!!! Is this what backstabbing feels like? I thought we were friends!

Also, to hit it off with a celebrity is such a Taehyung move. I’m not even surprised tbh

Jungkook curses under his breath. 

Jungkook, 11:28AM

I’m sorry, Jimin. I didn’t think it was my place to tell. I didn’t mean to leave you in the dark or lie to your face.

Also, tbh? What does that mean?

Well, he also got into an argument with Seokjin that left a bad taste in his mouth. Overall, none of this is in his comfort zone. He’s been agonizing over the situation with his mother and with Seokjin, knowing he has to fix both of them. 

Christmas is also creeping closer. November is basically over and December is here, portraying a death sentence for Jungkook’s feelings. 

The annual Christmas party of GoldenAegis Technologies will take place on the 19th of December, and it might be the last time he’ll really get to see Jimin.

He doubts that after it, when there is nothing that tethers them together like a good ol’ contract, the contact will dwindle, it will lessen, and eventually it will disappear.

Jimin has no reason to keep Jungkook around, and Jungkook has no reason (no adequate one) to pester Jimin. 

He can try the friends thing. He is, isn’t he? He’s doing it, just like he’s friends with Seokjin, Namjoon and Yoongi, but it’s not entirely the same.

Jungkook knows he is brilliant at suffering because the prospect of continuing to catch glimpses of Jimin in the years to come makes his heart beat faster. He supposes he can squash his emotions after some time, but seeing Jimin once, just hearing his name—it would revive them instantly, those pesky, addictive feelings.  

And he knows they will cross paths again (not just because of Seokjin and Taehyung) since Jimin will continue being high in demand for future events, and Jungkook is the freaking target audience for some of those future events. He’ll be subconsciously searching for Jimin, attending only to get a chance—a natural excuse —to speak to him.

He’s really doomed. But he kind of likes it?

“I’m a loser,” he mumbles to himself.

“What was that?” Juri questions, slipping inside with a fresh coffee in her hand.

“Oh, nothing,” Jungkook says, waving her off. Just me, pining. 

His phone lights with a text.

“Did Jimin just text you?!” Juri says, her hand reaching for Jungkook’s phone.

Jungkook is quicker though, snatching it away from her as fast as possible.

“You can leave,” he tells her.

“There’s something going on between you two,” she deduces. “Shelli is spewing nonsense all day long that you guys are dating. Are you? Or is she actually insane like I think she is?”

Jungkook’s face falls. “What?! Also, who is Shelli again?”

“My intern, of course,” Juri says, inclining her head, looking at Jungkook critically. “She spends too much time online, watching Kdramas or whatever. I think she was watching one where the CEO dates an employee.”

“Oh.”

“HR nightmare.” Juri shakes her head and sighs. It feels like a warning.

“Haha.” Jungkook plasters a tight smile to his face. “Thanks for the coffee, I need to be productive right now.”

“Productive, hm? You’re gonna answer Jimin’s text, aren’t you?”

“We don’t text. It wasn’t him. It was my sister. You know she landed on Monday.”

“Liar, liar, pants on fire!”

Jungkook abruptly stands up from his seat and personally ushers Juri out of his office. She laughs at him, trying to stop him, but Jungkook is taller and stronger (but still gentle!), and removes her from his office within a minute. 

He hears her cackle outside the office, and rolls his eyes, feeling his cheeks to make sure they aren’t flaming hot. Then, he checks his phone, relief flooding him upon reading Jimin’s text.

Jimin, 11:55AM

Jungkook, I’m not mad. Why would I? Seokjin-ssi is your friend! If Taehyung had told me, I also wouldn’t have told you he was dating Kim Seokjin! So don’t worry about it! Sorry if my text sounded like I was actually mad! 

Jimin, 11:56AM

tbh = to be honest

You’re such a boomer

Jimin is too kind. Well, it also feels like he kind of insulted Jungkook. 

Jungkook, 12:01PM

You are too kind to me. I’ll make it up to you! Let me know if there’s anything I can do (tutoring excluded! I’ll gladly keep doing that)

Jungkook, 12:01PM

Did you just call me old?

He waits for an answer, but doesn’t get one for a few minutes, he assumes Jimin must be busy with work. He, too, should be busy with work, but lately his priorities have been shifting a little. He’s done more non-work-related things since Jimin started working for him than in like three years before that.

It makes him recall the dinner he had with Jimin last weekend, how the world was perfect and everything was peaceful for that small period of time.

Jimin hugged him, and Jungkook hugged him back. This might be a surprise, but it wasn’t awkward after they pulled apart. It was almost the opposite. Somehow, Jungkook felt closer to Jimin, and more like a friend, too.

He of course took Jimin home as promised and made sure he got inside his apartment complex safely. On his way home, he couldn’t stop smiling, couldn’t stop recalling every single moment of their conversation.

He slept peacefully that night too. Dreamed of Jimin like a lovesick fool, and woke up more rested than ever. More infatuated than ever. 

Jimin, 12:10PM

Well… if you want to tutor Juwon this week again, I won’t say no to that!

Jungkook, 12:11PM

I’m looking forward to it.  

Jungkook, 12:12PM

You also didn’t answer the question, omega.

Jimin, 12:14PM

What question? I didn’t see any question!

Jungkook snorts. There’s no winning against Jimin. And even though Jungkook is the most competitive person ever, he lets Jimin have this one.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

“She doesn’t want you to come,” Joohyun says with a tired sigh on the other line of the call.

Jungkook actually halts in his steps, his voice echoing in the parking garage. “Eomma doesn’t want me to join you for Christmas shopping?” 

“Nope,” Joohyun confirms. “I argued with her that it’d be the first time in forever that you actually want to join and would try to clear your schedule for it, but she’s adamant.”

“Oh.”

It stings for a second, then the anger returns. What was directed at his father for most of his twenties makes a shift towards his mother and her stubbornness. 

“Well, we’ll be going tomorrow,” Joohyun says. “But how about you and I go next week, oppa? We could invite Seokjin oppa too?”

“He’s in Croatia,” Jungkook mumbles, running a hand over his face. 

“What’s he doing there?”

“Spending time with his boyfriend,” Jungkook replies dryly.

“What?! He has a boyfriend? Like an actual boyfriend, or a fling?”

“Don’t ask me,” Jungkook evades. “Anyway, I have to hang up now, Joohyun-ah.”

“Wait, oppa–”

“Yeah?”

“Don’t be sad, okay? Eomma will come around.”

“I’m not sad, Joohyun-ah. I’m just disappointed. I don’t know why I’m even surprised, to be honest. I guess a part of me thought we could leave this behind quickly, but I must have been wrong.”

“She holds grudges,” Joohyun points out. “I’ll talk to her.”

“No need,” Jungkook says emotionlessly. “It’s just how things are.”

Joohyun doesn’t seem convinced, nor impressed, but she drops the topic. “Okay, well, I’ll drop by tomorrow, okay?”

“I’m at the office all day, so I’ll have to see.”

“Okay,” she says in a small voice. 

“Sorry,” Jungkook presses out, rubbing over his chest. “It’s the end of the year. A lot of things to take care of, and–”

“I get it, oppa. We’ll talk though, yeah?”

“Of course, Joohyun-ah.”

They hang up and Jungkook swallows down the regrets which sit in his throat. He doesn’t like any of this. It bothers him that this is turning into a bigger issue. 

Next to the bliss he feels around Jimin, Jungkook is being confronted head on with the issues within his own family and consequently also the rest of his life.

How long will he be able to keep going like this? Running a company is one thing, having an actual life is another. 

He’s tutoring Juwon again tomorrow, so he’ll at least have that to look forward to. 

As for the rest of this year? 

Jungkook’s chest constricts. He’ll have to confront his emotions at some point, but not now. He’ll make use of the good ol’ suppression once more and hope it won’t backfire. 

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

With Taehyung still being in Croatia with Seokjin, Jimin is down a babysitter.

Of course, this is where Jungkook steps in. 

Suddenly, he’s not salty anymore that Taehyung decided to hit it off with Seokjin. Well, he wasn’t salty to begin with, but he was kind of… Jealous? Maybe a little envious that Seokjin finds love so quickly and easily? 

Either way, Jungkook enjoys being needed. Well, being needed by Jimin, even if it’s just this tutoring. 

Funnily enough, after tutoring Juwon for a second time at the end of November, and then a third time when December starts, it became a set routine. Once a week—or twice if Jimin has to come to the office for something related to the Christmas party and can just bring Juwon along—Jungkook tutors the pup. 

By now, Jungkook has already established a nice routine with the pup, bribing him with sweet treats (yes, he asked Jimin for permission) to get him to focus during the tutoring. He makes sure to be stocked up on Sprite, too. 

As expected, rumors spread wild and fast like a freaking forest fire at the company, and even the cleaners who come in in the evening asked Jungkook who the adorable pup is that is allowed inside his office even though no one else except for Juri is. 

It pleases a part of him. The part that is slowly but surely getting severely attached to Juwon and Jimin. 

He can count his meetings with Juwon on one hand still, but he feels like he gets to know him and his personality a little better every time he comes to the office and Jungkook teaches him math and listens to him rave about Lego, about Go Pack, about his friend Gayoung, about climbing, about Taekwondo (and his teacher Jackson), and, of course, about Jimin.

He also gets to know Jimin a little better, even though the omega is incredibly busy, juggling three projects at once, as far as Jungkook knows. 

The two of them have taken a habit of texting. Jungkook loves texting now. He loves when Jimin sends him funny pictures of Juwon, he adores when Jimin shares a picture of his coffee with some cute latte art, or when he shares new songs, new shows, new anything.

The more they text, the more Jimin opens up. (And the more slang Jungkook learns. All to Juri’s delight as well.)

And the more Jungkook tries to find peace with just being his friend. 

Apparently though Jungkook somehow did something right with Juwon all this time because Jimin approaches him after a tutoring session at the beginning of December with a humble request.

What makes Jungkook smile teasingly is the way Jimin starts their conversation.

“Let me check your hand,” Jimin says assertively when he comes to pick up Juwon that day. He doesn’t say hi, doesn’t hug Jungkook (they haven’t hugged since that one time at the restaurant), but he likes to use the very much healed knuckles as an excuse to inspect Jungkook’s hand. He did the same earlier last week when Jungkook tutored Juwon.

The delusional part of him thinks it’s because Jimin is secretly a physical person. Maybe he likes Jungkook’s hands? Maybe he likes Jungkook?

Those thoughts usually die down quickly, getting squashed by the rational part of Jungkook’s mind who reminds him that Jimin is just being caring. 

“It’s all healed,” Jungkook says, giving Jimin his hand anyway because you do not disobey the omega of your dreams.

“Hm,” Jimin hums. “Okay, yes, looks good.”

“Thank you, nurse.”

Jimin rolls his eyes at him, but changes the topic. “Did Juwon behave?”

“He always does.”

Jimin’s gaze goes towards his son who’s running around the office in a circle, shouting that he’s faster than a dragon.

Juri is filming him, looking absolutely endeared, whereas her intern is staring at… Jungkook.

She’s starting to give Jungkook shivers with all the staring. He noticed it the other day when he caught her lingering in front of his door as he was talking to Jimin on the phone, discussing tutoring and… other not so important things that just came up, you know?

“He’s hopefully going to be too exhausted when we get home and won’t make me lose sleep,” Jimin groans. “I still have to work.”

Automatically, Jungkook says, “You work too much.”

“Yeah? How would you know, Mr. Workaholic?”

“I’m an expert. I see the signs.”

“Are you in my walls, Jungkook-ssi?”

“Do you want me to be in your walls?”

Jimin tilts his head to the side, still holding onto Jungkook’s hand. “I don’t like the way this conversation is going.”

“It was a simple question that demands a simple answer, Jimin-ssi.”

To that, Jimin looks directly at him and declares in this small, absolutely soul-shattering voice, “Nothing is simple about you.” Then he drops Jungkook’s hand, re-establishing a sense of physical distance between them.

Jungkook’s world stops again—as it usually does once or twice whenever he is in Jimin’s presence. “Wh-what–”

“I have a request,” Jimin cuts in, looking unsure of himself.

“Anything, omega,” Jungkook rasps immediately, gulping. He forgets the intern is staring at him. He forgets he should probably not proclaim his desperate want to be useful to Jimin this openly. 

“On Friday,” Jimin begins, eyelashes fluttering as he tries to get the words over his lips. “Uhm, I feel horrible asking you for this, but you’re my only option. Everyone else is busy and I have this really important work thing…”

“For my Christmas party?” 

“Your Christmas party?” Jimin repeats with emphasis. “The one you didn’t actually care about?”

“Well, now I do. Since you’re planning it.”

“Oh, so it’s because of me?”

“What if it was?”

“You love to answer a question with a question, huh? How come the public doesn't know of this? How come they don’t know anything about you?”

“I don’t know. Maybe I need to bribe a journalist to write an article that praises my top notch humor? You could let them interview you.”

“And ruin your pristine reputation of an alpha who doesn’t smile?” Jimin laughs, shaking his head at Jungkook’s silliness. 

“Damn, you’re right… My reputation is all I have left…” He pretends to clutch a hand over his heart, putting on a devastated expression.

Jimin clears his throat, stripping himself of the humor again. “Well, but… it’s for a different event, the meeting on Friday, I mean. Unfortunately, it’s right when I have to pick up Juwon from his Taekwondo class. I have to pick him up at around five, but my appointment is supposed to go until 5:30PM. So I… I guess I was wondering if…”

“I can pick Juwon up?”

He looks at Jungkook with these eyes. Beautiful, caramel-colored eyes that make Jungkook’s heart ache. How could he not fall for Jimin when he looks at him like this? How could anyone ever deny Jimin something? How could that scum of an alpha hurt Jimin and not worship the ground he walks on? 

Jungkook really doesn’t understand. 

Jimin is one of a kind. An omega any alpha within their right mind would die for.

“You would?” Jimin whispers.

The corner of Jungkook’s mouth twitches up. He decides to say something that will hopefully take the edge off. “What do I get in return?”

Jimin huffs a breath. “Always the business alpha, am I right?”

“Life is transactional.”

“Oh Goddess…” Jimin groans and gives Jungkook a side eye.

“Actually, I'll take it back. That sounded chauvinistic. I have more nuance than that.”

Jimin gives him a threatening look. “You better.”

“But to answer your question,” Jungkook says, a sly grin sneaking on his face, “I’d love to pick Juwon up. Friday works well; I had wanted to get off a bit early anyway and meet up with my sister.”

“Your sister?”

“She is currently in the country. Christmas and all that, you know.”

“Oh, how lovely!” Jimin’s answer isn’t as enthusiastic as usual. He gnaws on his bottom lip, looking conflicted.

“What is it?” Jungkook asks softly. “You're biting your lip.”

Jimin’s eyes widen. “I’m not.”

“You look conflicted, omega,” Jungkook prods. “It’s killing me.”

A waft of Jimin’s scent breaks through the blockers suddenly. Jungkook’s nostrils flare against his will. Jimin smells of cherries and tenderness. Of sweetness and comfort. But there is also a note of hesitation and guilt, something that Jungkook wishes the omega would never have to feel. Especially not in his presence.

“I just… I hope you know I’m not trying to exploit you. I feel terrible asking you to do this.”

Jungkook’s face morphs into a frown. “You couldn’t exploit me even if you tried.”

“But you’re doing so much for me–”

“We’re friends,” Jungkook says—stresses. Goddess, it hurts to say that.

“I’ve never done anything for you though,” Jimin whispers. “I feel… I don’t know. It doesn’t feel right.”

“You don’t know how much you’ve done for me,” Jungkook replies darkly, wishing he was alone with Jimin and not in a room, albeit spacious, with two and a half (Juwon doesn’t count as a full person yet) people. 

If he was alone with Jimin…

The omega’s expression softens. “What do you mean by that?”

Jungkook evades the question. “Just give me the address and the time and I’ll pick Juwon up. It’s no problem at all.”

Jimin ponders for a heartbeat, his gaze inquisitive. But when Juwon throws himself around the omega’s leg, he seems to get distracted. “Juwon–”

“I’m hungryyyy,” the pup whines. 

Jimin sighs heavily. “Yes, okay, we’ll go home quickly and eat.”

“Text me,” Jungkook reminds the omega.

“Okay,” Jimin replies weakly, still distracted with Juwon’s whining. “Say goodbye and thank you,” Jimin says to a disgruntled Juwon.

“I’m hungry,” Juwon retorts.

Jungkook smiles at him nonetheless, promising, “See you Friday, little one.”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

The whole tutoring schedule and picking up Juwon from Taekwondo on Friday, as well as increasing his time at the gym and at work in general (if that is even possible) all blissfully distract Jungkook from his strained relationship with his mother, who still hasn’t asked to see him since the most recent incident.

Jungkook has seen Joohyun twice since she announced their mother didn’t want him to join them on their Christmas shopping trip. She came over unannounced both times, one of them a trip to GAT. She mostly spent her time chatting with Juri as Jungkook was stuck in a meeting. The other time was in the evening and they had dinner together, Juri letting it slip that their mother is refusing to talk about Jungkook in her presence.

Jungkook felt sorry— feels sorry—for the lack of… everything. 

She comes to Korea once a year, and instead of having a joyful time, she has to deal with their family issues. For a moment, Jungkook pondered if he should have swallowed his anger back then, but then he recalled how he felt, and how he probably would have exploded during an even more inconvenient time later on like Christmas itself. 

At least he was able to make plans with her to watch a Christmas movie and to shop a few things in the upcoming days. 

Most of the time, Juri keeps a list for Jungkook of things his loved ones mentioned throughout the year, and then Jungkook will tell her what to buy (with his card, of course) from all the options available.

Usually, his office is the place he has the things delivered to. He’s barely home, so the packages never fucking arrive. Shortly before Christmas his office is thus stuffed to the brim with presents. Jungkook might not do the ordering, but he does try to pack them himself. 

After his father’s death, his mother wasn’t into celebrating anything. She was severely depressed, mostly bed bound, and Jungkook had limited resources in organizing anything for birthdays.

He stopped celebrating his birthdays after. But he always tried to do something meaningful for Joohyun, which is how, in his humble opinion, he became quite good at wrapping presents.

And as the first presents arrive—like the Birkin for Joohyun that Juri apparently went through great struggles for—Jungkook wonders if he should also plan presents for Jimin and Juwon.

Should he buy them something?

He wants to. But there’s the issue of wanting to buy Jimin a new car, a new house, a new set of matching jewelry, all the books in the world, Cigarettes After Sex concert tickets, happiness, success, luck… The list is long. 

If he could, Jungkook would spoil Jimin rotten, regardless of their relationship status. 

He would do the same with Juri if he let her. But the beta isn’t much into presents. She’s a robot, after all. 

And Juwon—Jungkook would buy him so much Lego, his room would explode. 

Jungkook would be the father Juwon doesn’t have. The father who goes rock-climbing with him, builds Lego sets with him, and listens to Go Pack audiobooks with him. 

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

On Friday, finishing work a little early—or rather: interrupting work for a blissful moment—Jungkook is on his way to pick up Juwon.

He has the newest Go Pack episode already open on his phone. He just needs to press play. 

For now, the head of the finance department is listing off numbers while Jungkook pulls into the parking lot of the Taekwondo dojang.

Jungkook only retains half of what the alpha is telling him, his brain already with Juwon and how he will entertain the pup. 

“Kangjun-ssi,” Jungkook cuts in, having turned off his car already, “I have to cut our conversation short.”

“What? Oh.” Kangjun sounds absolutely shocked. Probably because Jungkook usually never cuts important calls this short. “Did I interrupt something important, sajang-nim?”

“Ah no, I’m on pup pick up duty and I can’t be on the phone for around an hour or so,” Jungkook says not as vaguely as he thought he would. “Please call Juri-ssi if there is something urgent. If not, I expect the complete report in the next few days. We can discuss the major things in the meeting on Monday as well.”

“Oh, I didn’t know you had a family, sajang-nim. I apologize.”

Jungkook opens his mouth and for a moment he wants to leave Kangjun uncorrected, but he cannot blatantly lie to people. “Ah, I do not. It’s for a friend.”

He half expected Kangjun to also say, I didn’t know you had friends either. 

“Okay, I won’t keep you away from duty any longer! Will you be in the office tomorrow, sajang-nim?”

“Most likely, yeah,” Jungkook answers. Weekends aren’t weekends to him. Everyday is a workday. 

“Okay, I’ll call again, sajang-nim. And have fun!”

They hang up and Jungkook wonders if he just created a new wave of rumors by admitting he has to pick up a pup. 

Whatever.

Right…?

Jungkook pushes the thought aside and heads out. He enters the venue a few minutes before the training is supposed to end, according to Jimin.

Once again, he feels out of place inside the Taekwondo dojang, spotting mostly omegas waiting to pick their pups up.

They spot him and immediately seem to identify him as someone unfamiliar. They look at him wide-eyed, trying to comprehend what in the Goddess’ name he is doing here.

“Hi,” he says, trying to sound amiable, “is the lesson over yet?”

“In five minutes,” one of them says, looking him up and down.

A part of Jungkook feels awkward while the other feels seriously flattered to be receiving such reactions. He nods, “I see.”

“Who– Who is your pup?” another asks, blinking at him. 

“Oh, I’m just–” 

“HYUNG!” Juwon exclaims loudly, making Jungkook whip his head around.

The training isn’t over yet as far as Jungkook can tell, but Juwon seems to abandon his spot, running over to Jungkook on naked feet, wearing his white uniform. His cheeks are red and his hair is messy, but he’s wearing the biggest grin ever on his face, eyes sparkling magically. 

Jungkook’s heart blossoms as Juwon dashes towards him. He drops to his haunches and welcomes the pup in his arms. 

“Hyung, you’re here!” Juwon cries out, throwing himself at Jungkook so hard it almost knocks the alpha over.

“Goddess, I don’t think anyone has ever been this happy to see me,” Jungkook laughs wholeheartedly, standing up slowly with Juwon still in his arms.

“Appa said you would come to pick me up, so I told Jackson seonsaengnim that you would come!” Juwon tells him, his bunny teeth looking even bigger from this close.

“Did you now?” Jungkook’s gaze falls on the alpha who is walking over to him at the same moment. 

“Yes!” Juwon chirps. 

“Jeon Jungkook-ssi?” the alpha—Jackson, if his guess is right—wonders. He looks to be Jimin’s age, and definitely good looking. He holds out his hand for Jungkook. 

“Oh, yes, hello,” Jungkook says. “Juwon, I’m going to put you down, one second.”

He lets the pup down and shakes the alpha’s hand. “Nice to meet you.”

“Jackson,” the alpha says, “I’m Juwon’s teacher.”

“Oh, yes, I know. I’m– Well, I’m a friend of his dad’s.”

Jackson seems somewhat surprised by that. “Friend?” He looks at Juwon, frowning. “But Juwon said–”

“Hyung, can we go?” Juwon begs, tugging on Jungkook’s hand. 

Jackson is still staring at Juwon in confusion. Maybe Juwon told him something different about Jungkook?

The incessant tugging has Jungkook caving; he doesn’t know how to say no to the pup. “Okay, we’ll go, Juwon-ah,” Jungkook says softly. 

“Can we get pizza?”

“Ah, I’m just taking you home, little one. Your appa will be there and probably eat dinner with you. But maybe we can have a snack, yeah?”

Juwon nods eagerly. “Okay! I’m going to get my stuff!”

He doesn’t wait for Jungkook’s answer and just sprints to the other end of the room where the pups all keep their water bottles. 

“So, uh,” Jackson clears his throat, “you aren’t dating, Jimin-ssi?”

Jungkook’s expression falls. He knows he can look intimidating and based on the way Jackson rears back it must be the case right then and there. 

“I am so sorry. It’s just that– I–” the alpha stammers.

“Yes?” Jungkook wonders icily. 

“I assumed Jimin-ssi was single. I had worked up the courage to ask him out, and…” He laughs in embarrassment. 

“He’s not,” Jungkook says curtly. “Be so kind and don’t waste your time, pup.” 

Jackson looks bamboozled.

He brushes past Jackson arrogantly, sauntering through the dojang with his hands nonchalantly stuffed in the pockets of his slacks. He knows he’s turning heads and, for once, he hopes he is. 

“Juwon-ah,” he calls out lazily, waiting at the exit for the pup to join him. 

He’s nonchalant right now, but not too nonchalant to refuse to hold the pup’s hand. To be clear, he holds Juwon’s hand tightly, wishing he would never have to let go of it.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Juwon is feasting on a chocolate bar in the backseat as Jungkook gets ready to start the car. 

He’s feeling guilty for lying to Jackson, claiming Jimin isn’t single and basically insinuating the omega is dating…him. But what was he supposed to do? Stand by while some other alpha insinuates wanting to ask Jimin out?

He runs a hand over his face, checking on Juwon by looking into the rearview mirror. “You good back there, little one?”

“Can I have another?”

“Sorry, I only had that one.”

Juwon pouts disappointedly. “Okay.”

“Can I ask you something, Juwon?”

“Yes, hyung.”

“Has your appa–” He changes his mind mid-sentence. “Ah, nevermind.”

Juwon still looks at him expectantly. He has Jimin’s eyes. In fact, now that Jungkook has seen Changwon… Juwon looks nothing like him. He’s all Jimin from head to toe. 

“I just wanted to ask how the class was,” Jungkook deflects, starting the engine. He should just take Juwon home and then reflect on the lie he told Jackson. Why in the Goddess’ name did he do that? 

“It was so cool, hyung!” 

“Really?”

“Yes, I am one of the best in my class. I am going to convince Gayoung to also start taking classes,” he announces proudly. “Then we can fight together.”

“Hmm, fun! Do you want to listen to Go Pack, Juwon-ah?”

“Yes!” Juwon squeals. 

“Okay, putting it on right away!” 

He sees that he has a few texts from his sister, probably asking about their planned hangout later, and also one from Jimin. At the next stoplight, he opens it. 

“Juwon,” Jungkook says, reading the text, “your appa is on his way home now. He’ll be there in twenty minutes.”

“Will you stay at our place?” Juwon asks him suddenly.

“Why would I stay at your place, buddy? I’ll take you up to your apartment, but then I have to go back to work.”

“Appa says you always work.”

Jungkook blinks and almost forgets to hit the brakes, nearly rear-ending into the car in front of him. 

“Appa also says you are a good alpha,” Juwon goes on, completely unaware of what he’s doing to Jungkook right now.

“He said that?” Jungkook croaks out. 

Instead of answering him, Juwon gets distracted by the Go Pack episode for a moment, humming along to one of the songs the characters sing.

Jungkook’s heart is thumping in his chest. 

“Hyung, why can’t you stay over at our place tonight? Uncle Taehyung and Uncle Hoseok always do that too. We could watch a movie, hyung. Did you know there is a Go Pack movie? I even saw it in the theatre!”

Jungkook isn’t sure when or how Juwon opened up so much to him. All he did was tutor the pup three times so far. What has he done to earn his trust?

It kills him. But it also does something more valuable; Jungkook feels himself smile genuinely, closing the void in his chest. 

“I have to go back to work, buddy,” he says softly. “There are a lot of things I have to take care of, unfortunately. But thank you so much for the invitation.”

“Do you not want to watch the movie with me?” Juwon says unsurely. 

“No, I’d love to watch it with you. I really do. Maybe I can ask your appa to arrange a day where we can watch it, yeah?”

“When?” Juwon questions impatiently. 

“Soon?”

“How soon?”

“I’ll bring it up when I drop you off.”

“Can’t we call him and ask if today works?” 

Jungkook suppresses a groan. “I’m sorry, buddy, but I have to head back to work after I drop you off.”

And then he has to meet up with his sister in the evening. He should also finally get back to Namjoon and Yoongi about their poker hang outs, but it’s completely slipped his mind.

“Why? Is work more important than fun?” Juwon asks with a groan, crossing his little arms over his chest. He stares out of the window and into the traffic, lips stuck in a perpetual pout.

Work is more important. At least that had been Jungkook’s mindset for the past nine years and counting. 

“I promise we’ll watch the movie sometime, yeah? I will coordinate it with your appa.” He tries his best to reassure the pup, but in reality he isn’t even sure if Jimin will agree to this. 

It’s not like he has a secure spot in the pup’s life. He’s somewhat Jimin’s friend, somewhat his boss, somewhat none of the above. It feels impossible to define his and Jimin’s relationship, perhaps because of its fragility. 

One move into the wrong direction and chances are Jimin will cut him off. 

“Okaaay,” Juwon says languidly. 

The Go Pack audiobook suddenly gets interrupted by a call.

To Jungkook’s surprise, it’s his sister. Jungkook declines the call, telling himself he’ll just call her back once he has dropped Juwon off. 

But then she calls again, and perhaps it’s something about an older brother’s intuition or whatever, but Jungkook knows something is up before he accepts the call.

“O-oppa,” Joohyun cries into the phone. 

She doesn’t cry often. Not even when she was a pup did she cry easily. Not at their father’s funeral. Not even when Jungkook left for college. The fact that she is crying now is making every alarm bell in Jungkook’s mind go off.

“What is it?” Jungkook croaks, checking the street’s surroundings to make sure he won’t crash the fucking car with Juwon in it. 

“Hyung,” Juwon says in a small voice from the back, “why is she crying?”

“It’s eomma,” Joohyun says with another sob. “You need to come fast.”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

In hindsight, it was a bad idea to simply bring Juwon to the hospital with him. The pup shouldn’t have been subjected to Jungkook panicking—to the skin-crawling anxiety that makes him simply turn the car around without a word, rushing them to the hospital.

Hyung, where are we going? Juwon had asked from the back before going very quiet, having picked up on Jungkook’s spiking scent, and the fact that something is very wrong.

Jungkook couldn’t talk, he couldn’t bring out anything. No word had the power to pass over his lips as his hand was gripping the steering wheel, knuckles turning white.

And so he drove them to the hospital Joohyun named, and instead of making Juwon walk, he picked the pup up and carried him through the entrance, up the damn stairs because the elevator is too fucking slow, and then into the room the omega at the reception named. 

He finds Joohyun there, sitting next to their mother’s bed, holding onto her hand.

She jumps up upon his arrival and for a second she doesn’t recognize him. “Who– Oppa?!”

Jungkook freezes with Juwon in his arms. He’s panting. Juwon’s tiny hands are clawed into the fabric of his coat. He’s not said a word since Jungkook hauled him out of the car seat and ran up here.

“Is that– Is that a pup in your arms?” Joohyun mutters, so confused she’s blinking rapidly as if to make sure she is actually seeing correctly.

“How is eomma? What happened?” Jungkook blurts instead of giving her an explanation. He walks over, taking a look at his sleeping mother.

“I’m Juwon,” Juwon says carefully, waving at Joohyun.

Jungkook is overwhelmed with guilt. He messed up. Why in the Goddess’ name did he not think before rushing here?

He makes eye contact with Joohyun for a second, gesturing at Juwon. “He’s the son of a friend of mine. I was babysitting when you called and I just– I rushed over,” Jungkook rasps, his voice breaking. “I didn’t think.”

Joohyun processes the news for a second. Her hair looks like a bird’s nest and her mascara is smudged under her eyes. She’s been crying. “The paramedics didn’t know what was wrong with her,” she says, her voice shaky as she leans back down, grasping their mother’s limp hand again. “We were just eating lunch and then she– she just collapsed. I don’t know. She couldn’t breathe and she couldn’t– Goddess, I was so scared, oppa.”

Jungkook surges forward, hugging his sister with his one available arm. “It’s okay. I’m here now. I’ll take care of everything.”

Once more, his gaze goes towards his mother lying still in the hospital bed, her lips slightly parted. She looks pale. Her signature red lipstick is smudged around her mouth. Suddenly, she looks old and frail. So frail, Jungkook is terrified. 

“They’re running tests now,” Joohyun says, sniffling. “She’s sedated but stable, they said. She’ll probably wake soon.”

Jungkook’s mind is running overtime. He’s supposed to be back at work. He has a meeting. Fuck. An important call with an investor. He doesn’t have time to fall apart emotionally. He doesn’t have the time to deal with this. 

“Hyung,” Juwon whispers, “is your eomma okay?”

Jungkook looks at the pup, lashes fluttering as he comes back to reality. “Juwon,” he croaks out, “I’ll– Will you stay with my sister for a second? I will call your appa, okay? He’ll come and pick you up.”

“It’s okay. I can stay here with you. When grandpa was sick, I was at the hospital a lot with appa. I was only four back then. Appa was very sad, but I kept him company and grandpa is okay now! I can make your eomma okay again too!”

Juwon’s willingness to stay, and his willingness to just keep Jungkook company is really proof of what kind of pup Jimin raised. Nonetheless, Jungkook cannot just exploit the helpful nature of an innocent pup. He can’t selfishly keep Juwon here. He doesn’t want to mess up with Jimin, nor give Juwon any kind of traumatic experience.

He doesn’t know how this will go with his mother. And, selfishly, he doesn’t want anyone to witness—not even a pup—when he shuts down and turns away from the world.

He’s only shown Juwon—or at least he hopes so—the good sides of him. He wants to keep it that way. 

“I didn’t ask your appa for permission before taking you with me, sweet one,” Jungkook says gently, making sure the pup is still secured in his arms. “He thinks we’re on our way to your home. I have to let him know you’re okay.”

“He will understand it if you tell him, hyung!” Juwon insists.

“I’m sure he would, but I have to call him anyway, okay?” Jungkook removes Juwon from his hip and puts the pup down. His muscles burn from carrying him for so long and running up the stairs. The pain helps clear his mind, keeping him focused.

“Joohyun,” Jungkook mumbles, unable to look his sister in the eye.

Thankfully, Joohyun is already crouching down to be at Juwon’s height. “Hi, you. I’m Joohyun.”

“Hello, noona,” he says shyly. “You have something dark under your eyes.” He extends his arm, trying to wipe away the mascara underneath Joohyun’s eyes. He’s gentle with it. 

“Oh,” Joohyun mumbles, letting out a half-laugh, half-sob. “Thank you for telling me.”

Relieved that Juwon will be okay with Joohyun for the moment, Jungkook slips out of the room.

His ears crack, his pulse races, and he cannot breathe through the debilitating pressure on his chest.

Outside of the hospital room, Jungkook takes a deep breath. He’s done this before, has lived through another parent dying, and although he doesn’t know yet what is wrong with his mother, he is imagining the moment she parts, the masochist, self-sabotaging person he is.

At least this way, when it inevitably at some point happens, he won’t break.

Because if there’s anything Jungkook learned in life it’s that he, under no circumstances, can allow himself to shatter and bleed out. 

Finally dialing Jimin’s number feels painful and sends another shiver of guilt down his spine. He pieces together sentences in his mind to explain the situation, but when the omega picks up, Jungkook’s brain short-circuits. 

“Yes?” he answers, laughing a little. “Did Juwon stall at practice? I got home thirty minutes ago already. Thought you’d be here by now.”

“Jimin,” Jungkook forces out.

“What is that tone?” the omega wonders. “Jungkook? What is wrong?” Of course he picked up on it immediately.

“I… I’m at a hospital right now–”

“Hospital?!” Jimin says shrilly.

“Yes, it’s– Juwon is fine. He’s fine, I promise.”

“Did you guys have an accident?!” 

“No, no, we are both fine. No accident,” Jungkook assures the omega, letting his face fall into his palm. He should have started this conversation differently. “I can’t say much, but I have to ask you to pick up Juwon from the hospital I’m at right now. Or– Or if you cannot, then I will take around forty minutes to wrap up things here and take him over to–”

“What hospital? I’ll be on my way.”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

When Jimin arrives twenty minutes later, Jungkook is still standing outside of the hospital room, staring off into nowhere, unaware how much time has passed already.

It’s the omega’s scent he picks up first. Cherry, but darkened. Worry and fear laced into it, making Jungkook lift his head, the instinct to comfort the omega first slamming into him. 

Apologies find their way up Jungkook’s throat but before he can utter them, Jimin throws his arms around Jungkook, squeezing him tightly. “I’m so sorry,” he mumbles into the crook of Jungkook’s neck. 

Jungkook doesn’t know how to behave. He’s too taken off guard to reciprocate. 

He’s numb. And he loathes it. Despises it. 

Jimin is grabbing his face now, scanning it. “Are you okay, alpha?”

Jungkook is losing himself in Jimin’s eyes, wondering why the hell the omega isn’t yelling at him for practically abducting Juwon. 

“You look pale,” Jimin mutters, a crease appearing between his brows. “And your face is hot.”

“Jimin,” Jungkook says brokenly.

“Are you really okay? Talk to me–”

Jungkook grabs Jimin’s wrist. “Why aren’t you yelling at me?”

Jimin blinks. “Why would I be yelling at you?”

“I’m– I don’t know. Fuck.” Jungkook lets go of Jimin’s wrist. He shouldn’t be in Jimin’s presence right now. 

“Alpha,” Jimin mumbles, “look at me.”

Jungkook does. His neck constricts. He doesn’t want to be here. He doesn’t want to get confronted with the past and the future at once.

“What happened?” Jimin asks. Jimin’s voice is assertive now.

“It’s my mother,” Jungkook says, his throat dry. “She collapsed. That’s all I know.”

“Is your mother okay?” 

“Juwon is inside with my sister,” Jungkook says instead of answering the question.

“And why are you not inside with them?”

“I…” 

Jimin’s brows are drawn together. He hasn’t tried touching Jungkook again, but he’s close enough for Jungkook to have his scent, blockers having worn off after a long day, all up in his nose. He wishes he could bury his head in Jimin’s neck and use the omega for comfort, but what would that make him? How more selfish can he get?

“I can’t stand hospitals,” Jungkook admits. It’s a confession he’s only ever told Seokjin years ago. Mentioned it once and then never again. Just like he does with all things that are too raw. Too personal. Things that would actually make him feel something.

“Why?”

“My father, he… He died when I was young. Brain tumor. Had surgery. Chemo. Then he was in a coma for a while. Then they declared him brain dead after another surgery. Took a while, you know. My mom– she couldn’t let go.”

Another thing he never tells people. But he’s telling Jimin. Jimin who bravely opened up about his ex to Jungkook, another alpha.

He owes Jimin this much, doesn’t he?

Jimin’s expression saddens. It’s genuine. “Oh Jungkook, I am so sorry to hear that.”

“It was a long time ago. I’m okay. I just… I guess for a moment it came back.”

“That is understandable."

Jungkook exhales shakily. “I shouldn’t have taken Juwon here, I know. I panicked because she– It doesn’t matter. I was irresponsible.”

“You were told your mother was admitted to the hospital. Anyone would have panicked. I’m sure Juwon is okay. I’m sure you took great care of him nonetheless.”

“Still, I’m sorry,” Jungkook insists. “He was probably scared. I will apologize to him after this.”

“Okay,” Jimin sighs, “but it’s not necessary.”

“I decide what is necessary,” Jungkook says softly, “and it’s necessary I apologize to him for this shitshow.”

“You’re an idiot sometimes,” Jimin sighs. He steps forward, brushing a strand of hair out of Jungkook’s face. “What will I do with you, hm?”

Jungkook is paralyzed. 

“How can I help you?” Jimin tries again, still caressing Jungkook’s face.

Hug me. Hold me so tight I can’t breathe. Tell me it’s going to be okay. “Can you– Can you tell my sister I’ll be coming back later?”

“Where will you go?”

“I have to make a few calls. There is– There’s an important meeting I need to reschedule.”

“Can’t you take care of that later? I’m sure they’ll understand.”

“No, I– I need to do it now.” 

Suddenly, Jimin understands. He understands that Jungkook needs a moment of normalcy. He needs to do something he has control over, something that gives him an illusion of security. 

“Okay, you go do that, alpha,” he tells Jungkook, gently pushing him down the hallway. “Make your calls. I’ll tell your sister.”

“Thank you,” Jungkook whispers. “Thank you, Jimin.”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

He calls Juri first once he finds a quiet corner somewhere at the end of the hallway. He looks outside, down at the busy streets, seeing Christmas lights. 

Juri picks up after the first ring. “Sajang-nim? Didn’t you mean to be back by now already? Meeting is in twenty minutes. Legal team is here already.”

“Listen, Juri, you need to reschedule. I’m at the hospital–”

“Hospital?!” Juri exclaims. Something in the background seems to shatter. 

“It’s not me,” Jungkook reassures her. 

“Who– Who is it?” 

“My mother. So, you will have to reschedule the meeting. And clean tomorrow as well. I don’t– I’m not sure how this will go here.”

“Okay, noted. I will come right after I finish here–”

“No need, Juri. But please drop by my place and feed Catherine for me, will ya?”

“Yes, surely, I’ll do it. Don’t worry about anything, sajang-nim.”

“I’m not, since I have you, Juri-ah,” Jungkook says quietly. 

He hears her breathe in, not saying anything. 

“Okay, I have to go now. We’ll talk later, yeah? I’ll make sure to not forget to read my emails.”

“That’d be appreciated, Jungkook-ssi,” she whispers. 

“Hm.”

Jungkook hangs up, exhaling slowly. Rescheduling the meeting will mess with his time. It will jumble everything. Jungkook isn’t sure how he’s supposed to stay on track with all his work. If he misses tomorrow as well… Too much will pile up. 

It’s all too much. He can’t see beyond the huge mountain of work he has to tackle. 

Work, work, work. 

It’s the only thing he has control over, but if the rest of his life breaks apart, how long until that slips away too?

Jungkook’s hands are shaking badly when he dials Seokjin’s number next. For a moment, he hopes the omega won’t see it. Please don’t pick up–

“Jungkook? You woke me up. But good morning!”

“Hyung,” Jungkook says, getting out nothing more than that word. 

Seokjin is immediately alarmed. “What’s wrong? Talk to me, Jungkook-ah. What happened?”

“Ah, it’s… Fuck.” Jungkook blinks against the tears trying to leave his eyes. He hasn’t cried since… since when? 

“Talk to me for Goddess’ sake!” Seokjin’s voice is shrill now. “You’re scaring me!”

“It’s eomma. She’s in the hospital.”

“What?”

“She collapsed. That’s all we know so far. They’re running tests, I think. I don’t know. I don’t know, hyung–”

“I’m taking the next flight.”

“No, no, Joohyun is here. She said eomma is stable for now. So don’t worry about her, hyung. You’re on vacation. Although I’m sure she would appreciate you being here.”

“But what about you?” Seokjin asks. “Who will look after you?”

“Me?” Jungkook blurts out. He looks at the white floor, the hospital scent is still in his nose, and he can’t help but feel eighteen again. 

“I’m taking the next flight, Jungkook,” Seokjin says decidedly. “Hold on til tomorrow, okay?”

“Yeah,” Jungkook croaks out. 

“Okay. Good. It’ll be alright. I got you.”

“Also, hyung, I… I need your autograph.”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

As Jungkook comes back inside the hospital room, he realizes Joohyun is sitting on a chair, and Jimin and Juwon are gone.

He freezes, feeling gutted that they left. 

“Oh, oppa,” Joohyun says now, having noticed his return. “Done making calls?”

“Sorry, work had to–”

“Work, yes, Jimin-ssi told me,” she cuts in. “Remind me again who he is? Friend, you said?”

“Friend, yes,” Jungkook confirms, leaving out the fact that Jimin also works for him. “He left already?"

“Yes, he said he didn’t want to intrude any longer. I told him he wasn’t, but he was insistent. His son was very worried about you, oppa. I had no idea you babysit actual people. I thought Catherine was as far as you’d get.”

“It’s a recent development,” Jungkook says distractedly. 

“He was adorable. He held eomma’s hand and told me he’d make her healthy again,” Joohyun recalls, tucking their mother’s hand back underneath the blanket. 

“Oh,” Jungkook says, standing frozen. 

He didn’t say goodbye to them.

Jimin left. 

“The doctor should be back soon, oppa. I’m hoping it’s just, I don’t know, low blood sugar. Maybe eomma has diabetes? Many old people get it!” Joohyun theorizes, laughing nervously. She’s rambling to calm herself down.

Jungkook retorts nothing. 

He feels empty as he observes his mother’s sleeping figure. 

Just like Joohyun predicted, the door opens, and two people slip inside, one of them being a nurse who smiles apologetically at Jungkook as he brushes past them, a tray with utensils in his head.

“Are you Jeon Eunjeong’s guardians?” the other person—the doctor, apparently—asks. She’s a tall alpha female, with her black hair in a tight bun at the back of her head. 

“We’re her children, yes,” Joohyun says breathily. “Is– Is everything okay?”

“So, I’m glad to tell you that for now, your mother is stable. But, as we said the last time she collapsed, she should get started on treatment as fast as possible.”

“What?” Jungkook cuts in. “What do you mean ‘last time’?”

The doctor looks confused. She checks the file in her hand. “Well, I had assumed you were aware of your mother’s condition.”

“Our mother’s what?”

“She–”

“I have cancer, son.”

Jungkook and Joohyun both whirl around, finding their mother sitting up in bed. She still seems weak, but her voice is strong when she says, “Now you know.”

The doctor and nurse seem to read the room. “We will come back later,” the doctor says curtly, nodding at the nurse to leave as well.

Joohyun is holding back a sob when she presses out, “How long, eomma?”

“A few months, I don’t know.” Eunjeong shrugs and looks away, unable to meet their gaze.

Jungkook lets out a scoff. “I can’t fucking do this. You’ve got to be kidding me.”

“Oppa–”

Jungkook ignores his sister's pleading voice. He’s out of the room a second later, walking around with tunnel vision until he finds the nearest bathroom and locks himself inside one of the stalls.

He squats down, letting his face fall inside the palm of his hands. 

A text rips Jungkook from his spiral.

There’s only one person who isn’t muted and he is still so infatuated, so hopelessly obsessed, he checks Jimin’s text immediately.

Jimin, 6:32PM

Hey, so sorry for leaving without saying goodbye, but I thought it would be better since I’m not family. You seemed very stressed, it broke my heart. I hope you know I’m not mad and Juwon is okay too. He said your sister was very nice. Thank you for picking him up from Taekwondo too.

Juwon wants to send an audio, wait

Indeed, there is a voice message. Jungkook clicks on it, finger trembling. Hearing the pup’s sweet voice soothes his soul for a heartbeat. “Hello, hyung, I want to say that I hope your eomma is okay and that your sister was very nice and had pretty hair. Sorry for not being able to stay longer. Appa says I should draw something for your eomma. Maybe I will do that. Bye, hyung! See you! ”

Jimin sends another text a moment later.

Jimin, 6:34PM

Also, if you want to talk to someone, feel free to call me or text me or just, idk, just lmk in some way. We’re friends, after all

Lmk = Let me know

Jungkook’s fingers hover above the keyboard. He even considers just calling Jimin, asking him to speak, just so Jungkook can listen to his voice and calm down enough to go back inside.

He doesn’t.

Instead, he gets up, unlocks the door, and heads for the sink. He splashes cold water into his face and inspects himself. 

“Get yourself together,” he mutters at himself, replacing overwhelming shock with anger. 

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

His father’s cancer diagnosis came when Jungkook was fifteen. He was into sports back then and thought he might try to pick up Judo next to Taekwondo.

They were fixing a car when Jungkook’s father told him. It was their thing; working on cars together. And because Jungkook’s father wasn’t an alpha of many words, he broke the news casually, almost emotionlessly.

Son, I have a tumor the size of a ball inside my head. It’s going to kill me. Not yet, but soon it will. 

That was the beginning of a long suffering period. The hospital became Jungkook’s second home. He became Joohyun’s father while his mother was too exhausted to remember to feed her, dress her, clean her. 

Cancer was Jungkook’s biggest enemy for a while. It was incomprehensible to him. How could that happen to his family? Why? What was the reason?

Eventually, cancer won. Operating it wasn’t fully possible. It was too big. Too tightly woven into the brain. The necessary technology didn’t exist yet.

After his father passed, Jungkook had a new motivation. 

A new goal to live for.

To this date, that is exactly why he works so hard. Why he pushes himself to the limits everyday. 

He founded his company to fund research. To create technology that could have saved his father

To find out that his mother also has cancer is nothing short of soul-shattering. Jungkook knows the odds aren’t in his favor. Still, it feels like getting visited by an old, dreadful friend. Someone that always overstays their welcome. 

He braces himself before heading back to his family. He cannot make this about himself and his unresolved trauma. Storming out was already childish enough, wasn’t it?

He knocks softly on the door, slipping inside quietly. 

This time, however, it’s Joohyun who’s gone when Jungkook’s eyes roam the room. 

“You came back,” his mother breathes, her eyes welling with tears immediately upon seeing him. 

“Where’s Joohyun?"

“She went downstairs to get something to drink. My throat is so dry.”

“I see,” Jungkook nods. He stands at the very back of the room awkwardly, unsure what to do with his hands, with his jumbled mind, and his fragile heart. “Eomma–”

“Come here, Jungkook-ah,” she orders tenderly, opening her arms.

There is still a pup somewhere deep inside Jungkook who reacts to the command and yearns for his mother’s comfort, despite her being the one who should need it more right now.

He goes, sitting down on the chair Joohyun sat on earlier. He lies his head onto her lap, letting her pat his back. “Eomma.”

“I had wanted to tell you. It was silly, I know, but I didn’t want to worry you for Joohyun. You two work so hard. My successful pups. I am so proud of you.” She sniffles quietly. “And because I am so proud, it was even harder to convince myself to tell you about this.”

“What type of cancer is it?” Jungkook asks huskily, looking up.

“In my scent gland inside my neck. When they found it, they said it’s treatable. Stage 2. It hasn't metastasized yet.”

“Fuck,” Jungkook curses. That is bad. 

“Language,” she chides, patting his cheek. 

“Why didn’t you tell me, for Goddess’ sake? We could have started treatment already, eomma. We could have taken precautions. I would have–”

“I needed time,” she sighs. “I didn’t want it to be true so I ignored it. But then I collapsed a few weeks ago and they told me it would get worse…” Her voice breaks off. She looks at Jungkook with sad, guilty eyes. “Forgive me, will ya?”

“I’m sorry, eomma,” he whispers, “for what I said the other day.”

There’s a part of him that jumps to the worst conclusion: instead of noticing the signs, he made it worse. He called her a bad mother. 

“I’m also very sorry. I was horrible to you, forcing you to go on all those dates. I don’t know what I was thinking. And then with the diagnosis… I must have lost my mind. I will stop it all. I promise. No more arranged dates, no more lies.”

Jungkook feels a single tear roll out of the corner of his eyes. “What is more important is that you promise me you will start treatment immediately. We’ll get you admitted. I will get you the best doctors. The best available treatment. We can fly to the States or to–”

“Okay, okay,” she smiles, carding through his hair. “I won’t leave you just yet.”

“Good, I couldn’t handle Joohyun all on my own."

“I’ll meet your father in the afterlife once I see you happy, son.”

“Eomma–”

“Whether it be alone or with a family. I just– You aren’t happy, Jungkook-ah. I thought a relationship or a mate would fix all of that. I’m old, so I didn’t think that far. But Joohyun scolded me, told me you can also be happy on your own. She’s right, you can. I’ll get the treatment, and you find happiness, okay?”

Jungkook exhales shakily. He gives his mother a stern nod. “Promise.”

Chapter Text

Mood board by the amazing @Jiminszephyr

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Jimin, 29.11.2024, 9:38AM

Hey, you okay?

Just checking in, there’s no need to answer ig

Jimin, 30.11.2024, 1:01PM

Here’s a new song. I found it very soothing. It made me think of you.

Jimin, 02.12.2024, 7:54PM

Juwon drew something for your eomma. He also got full points on his math test. Just wanted to let you know since it’s only because of you! 

Also, I sincerely hope everything’s okay

Please, just let me know if you’re okay

Jungkook hates himself for not having replied to Jimin immediately. He doesn’t even know why he didn’t, but he just… He can’t bring himself to do it. He didn’t feel worthy every time a text popped up on his screen. He still doesn’t feel like he has himself and his feelings under control. 

Jungkook’s mind is so deep in the abyss of worry, guilt, and fear, he can only focus on two things, which are his mother and, of course, work. His mother because she needs help with all the medical stuff, and work because… Work is Jungkook’s source of comfort despite it probably sending him to an early grave.

Jungkook lost track of time after the day in the hospital.

With Seokjin returning, Jungkook was able to simply put most of the emotional weight onto him, relying on his friend. He came back, entered his mother’s hospital room with a large bouquet of flowers, and eased the mood. It joined the other flowers his mother received in the span of two days, coming from her Pilates and chaebol friends, Jungkook himself, Commissioner Kang, Juri, and ultimately Seokjin. 

With the diagnosis, he becomes numb against his will and throws himself into work when he’s not at the hospital with his mother and Joohyun, preparing for treatment. Desperate to get his mind away from the seemingly inevitable future, work is the only reprieve he has that he can engross himself in completely and feel a sense of security. 

(He does consider reaching out to Jimin, asking him to say something funny, to go on another date with him, or to let him be around a carefree Juwon, but it feels too much of a selfish choice. He thinks about Jimin, too. Incessantly, even.)

His mother’s prognosis isn’t horrible—it’s treatable and the recovery chances are at 70%—but simply being confronted with cancer once again is making Jungkook recall the worst years of his life. 

He locks his office now, wanting to have some time completely to himself without any interruptions. 

He goes on a business trip to Singapore for two days and doesn’t sleep a wink. 

He forgets to cancel on Namjoon and Yoongi and receives a bunch of calls and concerned texts from both of the fellow alphas, wondering what is going on. Jungkook had asked Seokjin not to tell them yet, and it seems like the omega respected his wish. 

He’s withdrawing, and a part of him doesn’t want to admit it. Doesn’t want to face the harsh truth. Denial is easier. Work is easier. 

And Jungkook is too closed off—too much of a vault, like Seokjin said—for anyone to get through to him. For anyone to even mention that his behavior is perhaps self-destructive. 

And so he punishes himself further, knowing time will eventually do its job of making him forget. He doesn’t answer Jimin, doesn’t answer his friends—except for Seokjin who accompanies his mother to her hospital trips—and tries to push through on his own.

Juri is worried sick, but Jungkook pretends not to notice. She’s fussier than usual, observing him at all times. She brings him smoothies, supplements, and Jungkook has the suspicion the coffee she brings is decaffeinated to ensure he doesn’t suffer a heart attack. He doesn’t mention it though. He doesn’t have the energy.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Jimin, 04.12.2024, 4:18PM

I’m seriously getting worried. Why are you making me worried? 

Jungkook looks at the text for a very long time. It’s been almost a week since he has last seen the omega. 

With shame, he comes to the realization that he missed tutoring. He didn’t cancel it either. It should have happened yesterday, but he wasn’t even in Seoul. Fuck. What if Jimin and Juwon showed up and Jungkook wasn’t here?

Goddess, he’s missing Jimin. Missing him more than usual. He contemplates and ruminates for almost thirty minutes about what to text back. What would be appropriate? What would excuse his prolonged radio silence?

He recalls his mother’s words too. Find happiness. Is ignoring Jimin not going against that? Then again, does Jimin deserve someone like Jungkook who will eventually disappear like this on the regular? 

Hasn’t Jungkook already established weeks ago that Jimin deserves better?

In the end, Jungkook’s yearning wins. 

Jungkook, 4:40PM

Hey, I’m okay, thank you for asking and checking in on me. You have no idea how much I appreciate it and I am deeply sorry for not reaching out earlier. My mother was released from the hospital. She’s doing okay so far. Tell Juwon I am very thankful and that I am also very proud he did well on the test. I knew he would. He’s the smartest pup I know. 

I am also very sorry I missed tutoring. I should have canceled. Forgive me.

Jungkook doesn’t mention that his mother has cancer. He told Jimin about his father and that… for now, that might be enough. He shouldn’t dump his problems on Jimin.

It surprises him how fast Jimin reads the text and the three dots appear, indicating he’s texting back.

Jimin, 4:43PM

Oh, I’m so so glad to hear that! Thank you for (finally!) easing my worries! And don’t worry about the tutoring. He’s a math genius now, haha

Jungkook reads it a couple of times, aimlessly scrolling up their chat, wondering if he should say more. Should he attempt to lift the mood? Be funny? 

In the end, Jungkook doesn’t text back at all. He does listen to the song Jimin recommended though. Space Song by Beach House. It tugs on his heart. Somehow, he feels like Jimin knows him without actually knowing him. Somehow, it feels good that Jimin thought about him even when he didn’t need to.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Jungkook might be a vault, but every vault can be cracked. 

For the alpha, running into Jimin—or rather: Jimin seeking him out—is all it takes. 

It’s Friday, the end of every regular employee’s work week, and Jungkook hasn’t eaten all day. Or maybe all week? Well, the only thing he knows is that he’ll be back at the office tomorrow. And the day after tomorrow. And the day after that…

At least he finally managed to call back Namjoon and Yoongi and told them about his mother. Both of them said their condolences, asked if they could help with anything, and expressed their frustration over Jungkook not telling them earlier. Megan sent flowers all the way from the States and had Namjoon bring them to Jungkook’s mother personally. 

All things considered, Jungkook knows it could be worse. 

Yet he can’t shake that ominous feeling which settled into his bones the second he found out about the diagnosis. It’s the trauma from the past coming back, haunting him, harassing him. 

He ignored it for too long. Just like he–

“Ignoring me?”

The voice makes Jungkook freeze on the threshold to his own office. Which was locked when he left and now contains more than just the regular daunting atmosphere of corporate purgatory. 

Jimin is wearing all black today, looking as classy as ever. He has his arms crossed over his chest, giving Jungkook a look that seems scrutinizing at first, but upon closer consideration contains a tiny spark of humor that hides worry.

Jungkook is gaping like a fish. 

“Sorry for showing up unannounced. We just had the final meeting for the Christmas party, so I was around. Juri told me I could stay to say hello. She’s been keeping me updated. Bless her, really.”

Jungkook internally curses Juri. The beta apparently has a second key to his office he didn’t know about. And she apparently has also been keeping Jimin… updated? What exactly does that mean?

“I see,” Jungkook says, nodding. 

Jimin doesn’t move nor react, despite Jungkook’s curt answer which would usually call for someone to scoff or perhaps even push him for more.

Jungkook walks to his desk, feeling slightly ashamed over the state of it. It’s in complete disarray, empty coffee mugs and wrappers of energy bars lying around. Papers are scattered, and a pack of cigarettes is lying openly around. He smoked out of the window. Sue him.

His throat is so dry, so tied up, not a single word could pass through, for they would be too big, too revealing. They would lay Jungkook’s soul bare, would expose just how distraught he really is, and how desperately he is trying to hold himself together.

He doesn’t realize Jimin comes walking over, too focused on reestablishing a sense of order on his desk. 

“Come here,” Jimin mutters quietly, turning Jungkook to him gently before embracing him. 

His small frame wraps around Jungkook’s then, giving him the warmth he was missing for most of his life. One of his hands is on Jungkook’s nape, directing his head into the crook of Jimin’s neck. 

Jungkook shudders. He feels himself breathing in shakily, sudden emotions overwhelming him as the vault cracks. 

“It’s okay,” Jimin whispers, running a hand soothingly over Jungkook’s back. “Juri didn’t tell me details, but she said it was a very stressful time.”

Jungkook lets himself be held for a moment, face resting on Jimin’s neck. He breathes in the omega’s scent which becomes stronger, easier to pick up, with every minute they spend together. He’s wearing blockers, but Jungkook’s alpha could still pick out his scent in a crowd of a million people, that’s how fixated he is on it. 

“I’m here,” Jimin murmurs when Jungkook feels another surge of emotions and finally hugs Jimin back. 

For a heartbeat that almost cracks his chest in two, he clings to Jimin, indulging his desire for comfort. For the omega’s comfort. It heals some of the damaged areas of his soul, patching them up nicely. Jimin has no idea how good he is to Jungkook. He asked him what he had done for Jungkook, not knowing that existing was already enough. 

Eventually, Jungkook feels like he has already gone overboard, so he withdraws, running a hand over his face, looking everywhere but at Jimin. “I– Sorry, Jimin. I apologize.”

“For what? I hugged you first.”

“I–”

“You clearly needed it.” Jimin grabs his face, turning it to him, establishing eye contact. “I was worried, you know.”

“About me?”

“Yes, about you, silly.” He frowns. 

“Why?”

“Oh, maybe because your mother was in the hospital and you kind of went radio silence on me?”

Jungkook isn’t sure if it’s an accusation. Jimin does have a slight scowl covering his features, but he’s still so close, Jungkook could lean down and… kiss him. 

He blinks, extinguishing such thoughts. 

“I’m sorry, omega,” Jungkook whispers. “I didn’t think you’d worry.”

“I texted you that I was worried, you idiot.”

“Yes, but…”

“You should have seen yourself at the hospital. It–” Jimin looks away, his chest rising with a deep breath. “You have no business making me worry this much.”

“I am sorry.”

“You better be,” Jimin whispers, eyes glistening as they land on the alpha again.

“How have you been?” Jungkook questions, his voice almost a murmur. Now that Jimin is looking at him again, Jungkook cannot take his eyes off the omega. 

“I’ve been well,” Jimin says back, smiling weakly.

“And the little one?”

“He’s been well too. I mean… He drew two more pictures for your eomma.”

“He did?” Jungkook asks in wonder.

“I… I brought them.”

“You did?”

“Yeah, wait…” Jimin turns around, hurrying over to the bag he put into one corner of Jungkook’s office. He quickly takes out a few papers, making sure they aren’t wrinkled.

“Here you go,” he says, handing them to Jungkook. 

Jungkook accepts them, noticing the bright colors immediately. “Oh wow,” he breathes, inspecting the three drawings individually. “He really drew these for her?”

“He likes to draw when he’s not trying to climb the freaking doors or walls inside the apartment,” Jimin laughs. “Usually he doesn’t stay concentrated for long enough to finish one, but after seeing your eomma in the hospital, he requested time to draw the second we got home. It was kind of touching, really.”

“He mentioned your father had been in the hospital when he was four,” Jungkook recalls, clutching the drawings to his chest. 

“Yeah… he had a heart attack. It was shortly after I had finally broken up once and for all with Changwon and was trying to get my life under control. During my relationship with him I wasn’t close to my parents. I had isolated myself and… Goddess, when my mother called and told me he had had a heart attack, my world kind of broke down.”

“I understand that,” Jungkook says empathetically.

“Were you close to your father?” 

Jungkook can’t lie. “Very. He was my idol.”

Admitting it out loud after such a long time hurts. Shamefully, Jungkook realizes he doesn’t talk about him. When was the last time he brought him up? Why did he ban his father from his thoughts? 

The answer is obvious; dealing with the pain and grief was too overwhelming, the anger he projected onto him was the easier way. 

A coward’s way, obviously.

“I’m sorry you lost him,” Jimin whispers breathily. His expression shows how genuine he is. 

It kills Jungkook how he easily is starting to pick up every emotion on the omega’s face. Time is so funny. Time will make Jungkook remember Jimin with such intensity and with such gravity, maybe he won’t be okay. Maybe he will never be.

“I’m sorry too. Made me grow up too quickly,” Jungkook says quietly.

“Is that why you founded a biomedical engineering company?” 

Jungkook halts. “How’d you figure that out?” 

“Seems logical. You seem passionate about what you do. A little obsessive maybe, but it’s genuine.”

“That sounds like a nice way of saying I have no life outside of work,” Jungkook teases, smirking faintly. 

“I had tried to find information on you, remember? Read tabloids and all that. None of them mentioned what motivated you.”

“Do I remember you doing research on me? Yes, yes, I very much do.”

Jimin rolls his eyes, his hand automatically flying out to playfully slap Jungkook. “Oh Goddess,” he groans, “will you ever let me live this down–”

Jungkook, like he has done before, catches Jimin’s wrist with his free hand, tugging the omega a step closer. “Never,” he says, voice deep and smoky. 

Jimin’s lashes flutter. It feels poetic. “Oh.”

“Tell me, omega, what do you want for Christmas? I’m incredible at wrapping presents as you have probably noticed.”

They’re so close, Jungkook can see the sprinkles of different shades of brown inside Jimin’s eyes. He hears Jimin open and close his lips before opening them again. “You packed them? I thought– Why did I think they were decorations?”

“I keep my presents in my office. Easier that way since I’m not home often.”

“You actually have a house? A bed? I thought you slept here, right under your desk for maximum productivity.”

“I’m not that unhygienic.”

“I don’t believe that house of yours exists.”

“I even have a whirlpool. And a sauna. What do you say now?”

“I say–” Jimin gulps. “I say you’re showing off.”

“Let me show off even more by buying you and the little one a Christmas present.”

Jimin’s eyes are flickering across Jungkook’s eyes at rapid speed. He hasn’t tried to move away yet, so Jungkook is still holding onto his wrist.

“Is this going against HR guidelines?” Jimin wonders, evading the actual question. “I feel like Juri is about to burst inside and accuse us.”

“Of what? I thought we were friends?”

Jimin’s eyes widen slightly. Internally, Jungkook chuckles and realizes he kind of beat Jimin at his own game.

“Y-yes, of course. We’re friends.”

“Will you let me be a good friend and buy you a present for Christmas?”

“You forgot the magic word,” Jimin murmurs.

Jungkook huffs. But he caves. Of course he does. “Pretty please?”

“Fine,” Jimin permits. “But nothing expensive. Something small. Okay?”

“Why not expensive?”

“It would feel like I’m exploiting you,” Jimin admits, face twisting. He’s obviously getting frustrated that Jungkook refuses to understand this. 

“What if I want you to exploit me?” Jungkook asks darkly, tugging on Jimin’s wrist once more. 

A tremor seems to go through Jimin as he is almost pulled right against Jungkook’s chest. There’s only an inch between them, a last invisible wall of decorum.

“Jungko–”

“I will give these to my mother,” Jungkook interrupts, holding up the drawings. “She’ll be very happy about them for sure.”

Abruptly, he lets go of Jimin, seeing the omega almost stumble, looking stunned. 

“Do you want to have lunch?” he asks Jimin nonchalantly, before placing Juwon’s drawings on his desk carefully.

“Oh, uhm, I can’t. Work is waiting for me. I have this event coming up, remember?”

“Right, you work for other people.”

“You’re seriously annoyed about that?” Jimin chuckles. 

“How much do the others pay? I’ll pay more.”

“Oh Goddess, I’m gonna go,” Jimin groans, still chuckling though. 

“Are you sick of me?” 

“You are so whiny today,” Jimin comments, pointing at him sassily.

“You came here to see me, giving me attention. It’s your fault.”

“I wouldn’t have come if I had known you were going to torture me!” Jimin exclaims.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

The first thing Jungkook does after Jimin leaves (and Jungkook is a tiny bit happier again) is go online and search for suitable gifts for the omega and Juwon. Getting Juwon something is easy. He already knows what he will ask Juri to organize, but Jimin…

Jungkook spends a lot of time on jewelry sites, but none of them feel appropriate. He even thinks about gifting Jimin a trip as a present, but he doesn’t know the omega’s schedule. And a trip isn’t exactly something “small”, is it?

Eventually, he coincidentally ends up seeing the perfect present. He wants to buy it immediately, and a grin appears on his face, but then it fades away a heartbeat later as he questions himself. Is he going overboard? Is he going to make Jimin feel indebted?

He rubs over his chest, despising the pressure that has settled there like an unwanted guest. 

His and Jimin’s relationship feels fragile. Jungkook hasn’t made a new friend in such a long time, he forgot how the beginning feels a little like walking on eggshells, wanting to make sure you won’t lose this person you just met before even getting to know every piece of them. 

Jungkook has a lump in his throat as he dials his best friend’s number, doing something he usually doesn’t.

“Yes, petal?” Seokjin answers after the second ring. “I’m on set. Sigh.”

“Filming started again?” 

“Yes, my Croatia honeymoon is over,” Seokjin says dramatically. “Producer called me back on set and scolded me.”

“Hyung, I’m sorry for making you come back early.” 

“Jungkook-ah, stop saying nonsense. You know I would drop everything for you. It’s the least I can do after all the years you took care of me.”

“Is everything going well between you and Taehyung-ssi?” Jungkook wonders, trying to sound casual about it. He is kind of feeling sentimental and euphoric at the same time. The mixture is giving him heartburn. He’s relieved he and Seokjin are back to normal, but all his recent worries and his constant rumination regarding Jimin is overwhelming him.

“Well, I haven’t seen him since we landed,” Seokjin says. “I’ve been trying to convince him to be an extra in my movie, but he’s shy and– Hussein, darling, could you please refill my matcha?”

“And he’s what?” Jungkook asks.

“He’s just adorable. So adorable. Do you think he’s too adorable for me?”

When Jungkook recalls the memory he has of Taehyung, he wouldn’t describe him as ‘adorable’. “I mean… probably not.”

“Oh good. Yes, that’s good. I thought after the scandal broke he’d run away. They usually do that, you know. Alphas are intimidated by the fact that I’m a celeb. At first they’re into it and then they realize it’s not just fun and games and their social influence is close to 0% whereas mine is, like 0.1%.”

“Hm,” Jungkook hums, understanding where Seokjin is coming from. He lived through every failed talking stage, fling, affair, and relationship the omega has had. Most of them were with alphas, and those usually ended up being the most frustrating. The alphas usually never grew a damn backbone and either cheated, dropped Seokjin out of nowhere or—the worst of them all—exploited him and then spread false rumors about him. 

There was only one time Seokjin was truly heartbroken though, if Jungkook’s memory serves right. And it wasn’t the brief relationship he had with Yoongi. To this day, Jungkook doesn’t know the name of the omega that broke Seokjin’s heart, only that it was a fellow actor… or actress? Seokjin spent a whole month at Jungkook’s place, lifeless and soulless. 

“But he’s different, Jungkookie,” Seokjin says dreamily. 

“Hyung, I hope you will be happy. I really, truly, sincerely hope that it works out.”

There’s a moment of silence. Then, “Gina, darling, wait a second with the concealer. I’m going to cry.”

Jungkook huffs softly. “I thought about what you said, hyung. That I’m a vault. I think you were right and I’m sorry. I didn’t realize it had become this bad. I will… be more open. Less vault-y.”

“I’m definitely going to cry,” Seokjin sniffles. Jungkook can hear the people around Seokjin wondering if he’s okay or if he’s going to cause problems today and ruin his makeup.

“I’m actually calling because I wanted to tell you something.”

“My petal, my bestest friend in the whole wide world even though you’re a stinky alpha, what do you want to tell your hyung, hm?”

Jungkook feels silly. And kind of giddy. “Jimin allowed me to buy him and Juwon Christmas presents.”

“He allowed you to?” Seokjin snorts.

“Eh, he doesn’t like others spending money on him, I believe.”

“You sure he doesn’t just dislike you spending money on him?”

“Yeah… that’s my worry.”

“Did you even spend money on him so far?”

“No, nothing basically. So how much do I spend on his and Juwon’s Christmas presents?”

“How much are you spending on mine?”

“You’re not getting anything,” Jungkook teases.

“I hope you know I will cancel you if you don’t get me something,” Seokjin threatens, and it’s not a joke. “Public cancellation, amigo.”

“Don’t worry, hyung, your present is already wrapped and ready to be put underneath an obnoxiously flamboyant Christmas tree.”

“Phew, good,” Seokjin exhales. “I was about to tell Tara to send your present back.”

Jungkook has no idea who Tara is, but he assumes it’s one of Seokjin’s assistants. “You know I need nothing, hyung,” Jungkook laughs. “I’m happy if Christmas is actually Christmas this year.”

“It’s always Christmas, but you don’t make it a priority, Jungkook-ah.”

Well…

Jungkook sighs defeatedly. “I know. I need to work on myself. I had a talk with eomma when she revealed her diagnosis to us. She… Ah, she basically told me she wants me to be happy.”

“Are you happy?”

Jungkook breathes in, his lungs only expanding painfully. “I thought I was,” he admits, “but… Maybe I’m not, hyung.”

“I’m listening.”

“I don’t think it’s going to work out with Jimin and me,” Jungkook mumbles. “We… We have chemistry and we flirt and– There is something between us, hyung. I can feel it and I know he can feel it too, but I’m wondering if I’m chasing a future that will never exist. I’m not blaming him, of course. I can’t force anyone to reciprocate the full scope of my feelings. It’s not easy for him. He has Juwon and a career to consider. I’m also not the best candidate. I… I prioritize work and I’m closed off. I’m a vault.”

“So?”

“What do you mean?”

“Gina, give me a second, I need to play therapist for a moment here for my alpha child,” Seokjin says to his makeup artist. “Jungkook-ah, tell me one thing.”

“Yes?”

“Don’t you think that it might just take some time?”

Jungkook leans back in his office chair, changing the hand he’s holding the phone with. “Hm?”

“Falling in love isn’t a quick ordeal,” Seokjin explains gently. “I mean, look at you. You never gave your heart to anyone before. Now you’ve given it to Jimin in its full abundance and it’s new and scary. But you’re not damaged from love, Jungkook-ah. Your issues lie elsewhere. Jimin, however, was hurt badly. Taehyung told me some things, you know. His ex did a number on him.”

“I know,” Jungkook grumbles, his hatred for Changwon, that worthless piece of shit, flaring up again.

“So, instead of giving up, just let it develop naturally.”

“He rejected me, remember?” Jungkook points out. “I don’t want him to feel uncomfortable around me. I don’t want my feelings for him to be a burden to him.”

“Has he told you that they are?” Seokjin inquires.

“...No.”

“Well, then I wouldn’t change anything for now. Do you mention your feelings to him nonstop? Are you persistent about him returning your feelings?”

Jungkook considers this. “Not really? I mean, I do not hide it well. I don’t… I don’t make a big secret out of it, but I don’t bring it up.”

“You’re not pushing them onto him. Good.” Seokjin hums appreciatively. “I think you’re being very gentle, Jungkook. You’re making him feel appreciated without expecting something back.”

“Am I?” Jungkook didn’t think about it like that before.

“I can’t speak for him, but maybe?”

“Hm… And the Christmas presents? Do you think I should just do something really small?”

“Goddess, if I was him I’d make you buy me a fucking vacation home on the Maldives, but he’s humble. Ugh. I hate humble people. But Taehyung is also so humble. His life fits into one bag, can you believe it? My life wouldn’t even fit into the Empire State Building.”

“You know what,” Jungkook says, “I will just buy what I have in mind. If he doesn’t want it, then… He’ll just have to accept it.”

“That’s the spirit, petal. And remember what I told you.”

“What did you tell me?”

“Courting,” Seokjin emphasizes. “And maybe hunt a deer or something. I don’t know, gotta trigger the primal instincts.”

“I do know how to work a gun,” Jungkook notes. “I sometimes go with Commissioner Kang, you know.”

“That’s alpha nonsense, so no, I do not .” Seokjin clicks his tongue. “Anyway, Jungkook-ah, I have to go through my lines now, so to summarize: buy the presents, spend the money, and be patient. Jimin will come around. And if he doesn’t–” There’s a slight pause. “I was about to curse him out, but then I remembered he might be Taehyung’s best omega at our mating ceremony and I lowkey really like him and his boba ball of a pup so… If he dumps you once and for all, I’ll come and wipe your tears, okay?”

“Much appreciated, hyung,” Jungkook chuckles. “But… oddly enough, I think I’ll be okay even if it doesn’t work out.”

“You think that now.”

“I just… I feel peaceful.”

“Peaceful, my ass. Is Juri making you do yoga again?” 

“She did bring it up,” Jungkook hums, “but I’m sticking to the gym.”

“Okay, alpha doing alpha things. Right, right. Well, I’m gonna go now. Give Catherine a kiss from appa!” 

They hang up and Jungkook puts his phone down. For a moment, he gets distracted by the work he should be doing now, but then he realizes his chest feels a little lighter, a little less like unwanted feelings are making themselves a home. Is this improvement? Jungkook hopes so.

He picks up his phone again and orders Jimin’s present. 

Then he gets up and sticks his head out of the door of his office. “Juri?”

Juri’s head snaps up from her desk. She seems surprised that he’s actively talking to her. Then again, he hasn’t done a lot of that recently. Not since the diagnosis. “Sajang-nim?”

“I need you to organize something for me.”

“Of course. What is it?”

“Before I tell you,” Jungkook says, “hand back the key to my office.”

Juri gives him a frown. “Key?”

“My office was locked. Then it wasn’t when I came back.”

“Well, when Jimin showed up it wasn’t locked. I promise.”

Jungkook lifts a brow. “You expect me to believe that?”

Juri’s tone changes completely. “I wouldn’t usually say this, sajang-nim, but you seem happier now that you’ve talked to him.”

Jungkook has nothing to refute. Talking to people is nice. He should do it more. And he should talk about himself more. Perhaps that way he will find a version of himself that won’t need to search for happiness but has it on the palms of his hands. 

Juri gives him a feigned innocent smile. “Anyway, what can I do for you, sajang-nim?”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

The weekly lunch dates with his mother return to the normal routine of Jungkook’s life. The only difference is that they have decided to eat at new restaurants now, places that offer anti-inflammatory food and give his mother, and Jungkook as well, the illusion that it helps with her path to recovery.

She prohibits the topic of cancer outside of her appointments. The treatment hasn’t gotten to her yet. Jungkook knows it’s a matter of time, dreading the future already.

He’s glad he can enjoy time with her again, though. Since they had a talk in the hospital, Jungkook’s resentment has perhaps not disappeared entirely—because it isn’t like easily removable weeds but more like deeply grown roots—but surely partially.

He understands his mother, but he doesn’t regret speaking his mind either.

During this week’s lunch, Joohyun is with them. His sister has been handling the news better than him. Well, except wanting to quit her job in America and returning to Korea, which their mother was thankfully able to talk her out of

“Eomma, you can’t force me to grow my hair long again,” Joohyun whines, dodging their mother’s hand which was petting Joohyun’s hair.

“Why not? It was so pretty when it was long.”

“This cut is better suited for my face.”

“You look like a pancake,” Jungkook comments, reaching for his coffee nonchalantly.

Joohyun kicks him under the table and Jungkook unfortunately has to hold back a wince. That fucking hurt. “At least I don’t look like I have a stick up my ass.”

“Bad comeback,” Jungkook scoffs. “Pancake had more impact.”

Joohyun looks at their mother. “Can you tell him off?”

“Why are my adult children bickering like toddlers?” she laments, pinching the bridge of her nose. 

“Because your oldest son, a whole ass thirty-four year old, has the emotional maturity of a toddler,” Joohyun groans, rolling her eyes so hard Jungkook is worried they’ll get stuck in the back of her head.

“Says the one whining to her mother nonstop,” Jungkook mutters under his breath. 

“You really want to provoke me today?” Joohyun challenges, staring at him unafraid. Even as a tiny pup, she had this confrontational expression, like she could never be scared of anything.

“Try me,” Jungkook retorts, jutting his chin out proudly.

A smug grin appears on her face. “Well, there’s one thing I’ve been meaning to ask you about.”

Jungkook’s stomach drops. The sheepish expression that takes over her features isn’t boding well for him. 

“The omega whose pup you babysat,” she begins, making Jungkook’s blood pressure rise, “be honest, oppa, you’re into him, aren’t you?”

Jungkook would choke on his coffee now if he hadn’t finished it just a few moments ago. 

“Wait a moment,” his mother now says, sitting up straight, “what is Joohyun talking about?”

“Eomma, while you were unconscious, oppa showed up with a pup, remember? I told you about that!”

“Oh, yes! I had forgotten about that! How could I forget about that?” Her eyes light up.

“And then a while later the pup’s omega father showed up. Prettiest omega ever. Blonde hair, gorgeous face, super polite…” She smirks sadistically. “And I can’t help but wonder in what relation, exactly, oppa and he stand to each other.”

“Jungkook-ah,” his mother says excitedly, voice rising in pitch.

Jungkook knows he has to abort this very quickly. “Before you guys interpret anything into this,” Jungkook says, holding up a hand, “we are friends. That’s all.”

“Friends, sure,” Joohyun snorts.

“His best friend is dating Seokjin hyung,” Jungkook tells them. “That’s why we know each other.” Okay, that’s a lie, Jungkook. “And he… He’s the event planner for GAT’s Christmas party.”

“Wait… his best friend is Seokjin oppa’s new boyfriend?” Joohyun is now putting the puzzle pieces together. 

Jungkook nods in confirmation. “Yes, that’s right.” He reaches for the shopping bag he brought, containing nothing but the drawings Juwon made for his mother. “Uh also, eomma…”

“Yes?”

“Juwon drew something for you. Jimin gave them to me a few days ago.” 

“Jimin is the omega Joohyun talked about?” she asks softly, taking the drawings from Jungkook.

“Yes. That’s him. He’s… He’s a very kind person. He was glad to hear you’re okay, eomma. And Juwon, his pup—he’s the smartest pup I know.”

“He was such a darling,” Joohyun agrees. 

“These drawings are lovely,” she whispers, tracing over them with her fingers. “It reminds me of when you would paint something for me every week, Jungkook-ah. We always hung it on the fridge.”

“I don’t have a single artistic bone in my body, but Juwon does. He’s really talented for his age.”

“Oppa, is Jimin-ssi mated?” Joohyun wonders bluntly.

Jungkook hates that she’s still prodding. Ugh. “No,” he drawls, “why?”

“Oh, you know, just asking out of curiosity. You seem to know a lot about him and his son.” 

He doesn’t believe her. 

His mother sighs dreamily. “I must meet this Jimin and his lovely pup, so I can thank him for these sweet drawings and for taking care of my son.”

“Eomma,” Jungkook groans.

“What?! If he’s a friend of yours, he’s taking care of you, isn’t he? Just like Seokjin-ah is,” she defends herself.

“I–”

Jungkook gets interrupted by his mother before he can retort something. 

“He’s not mated, you say?” she asks thoughtfully.

“No.”

“He must have it hard. Raising a pup,” his mother mumbles, her gaze becoming distant. 

Joohyun also draws her brows together. 

“He’s very capable,” Jungkook tells them, beginning to ramble. “He’s so diligent. He’s an event planner, so he’s also very busy. Very successful. That’s why Juri hired him. I– I tutor Juwon sometimes. Math, that’s what we do. He got full points on his recent test.”

“You, tutoring a pup?” Joohyun says, looking at him strangely. “If I didn’t know any better, I’d say you have a big, fat crush on that pup’s father.”

Joohyun receives a pinch to her side from their mother. “Joohyun-ah. Don’t tease your brother.”

Jungkook blows out a slow breath. 

“I didn’t!”

“I don’t have a crush,” Jungkook sighs— lies.

“He’s lying!” Joohyun yells, pointing at him.

“I’m not!” Jungkook exclaims defensively. 

“Oh,” their mother says with a sly smile, “his ears are turning red. He’s definitely lying.”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

“Hyung!” Juwon exclaims happily, running up to Jungkook, wearing his little Go Pack backpack. 

It’s Wednesday and Jungkook is tutoring for the first time after going radio silence on Jimin and consequently also Juwon. 

Jungkook crouches down to welcome the pup bolting at him. He lifts Juwon from the ground, spinning him around. Juwon giggles wildly, telling Jungkook to spin him around faster. 

“Stop, he’ll get dizzy and puke all over your carpets!” Jimin laughs, standing a few meters away to avoid getting hit in the face by Juwon’s feet. 

“Hyung, one more time!” Juwon whines when Jungkook slowly lets him down, ruffling his hair affectionately.

“After tutoring, hm?” Jungkook says, turning his attention onto Jimin. “Everything okay?”

“Shouldn’t I be the one asking you that?” Jimin says softly, head tilted. 

“I’m good,” Jungkook says with a shrug. 

Jimin raises his brows. “Are you sure?”

“Now that my favorite pup is here, I’m beyond good,” Jungkook says, ruffling Juwon’s hair again, leaving it messy. The pup giggles, eyes sparkling.

Jimin rolls his eyes. “Okay, okay. Well, you two have fun. I’m running late again for a meeting, so… hopefully I’ll be able to pick Juwon up on time. If not, I’ll send Taehyung.”

“How’s, um… You know,” Jungkook says awkwardly. 

“His foot? Or his relationship to famous actor Kim Seokjin?” 

“Both? Seokjin hyung is head over heels.”

“The foot is doing well. The relationship…” Jimin rolls his eyes again, letting out a sigh. “He’s not talking about anything else these days either.”

“Oh, wow.”

“Well, he’s got you to thank for that, doesn’t he?”

“I unintentionally played matchmaker for the first time in my life,” Jungkook nods to himself.

“He’s been getting followed by paparazzi every now and then,” Jimin reveals, “so we’ve been kind of limiting him walking around in public with Juwon. I don’t want him to get caught up in that.”

Jungkook looks at Juwon who plopped down and is unpacking his things in the middle of the office. 

“Understandable,” Jungkook says quietly. 

“I don’t blame Seokjin-ssi, of course,” Jimin adds hastily. “It’s not his fault that the paparazzi are trying to stalk Taehyung. Well, he’s the famous one and so by association and– Whatever, I hope you know what I mean.”

“It’s the first time hyung is dating a non-celebrity, so the netizens are freaking out,” Jungkook offers as some further explanation. “I can ask Namjoon hyung—he’s the owner of hyung’s company—to maybe pull some strings and make the paparazzi look the other way.”

Jimin waves him off. “It’s already gotten less, so don’t worry. Taehyung isn’t bothered anyway, and so far nothing has happened where Juwon was involved because my friend Hoseok has been stepping in, helping me a lot.”

“If you need anyone to babysit,” Jungkook begins, gesturing towards himself.

“Ah, no no no,” Jimin denies vehemently. “You already do me the favor of tutoring. You’re busy with your company and you have to take care of your mother.”

For a moment, Jungkook contemplates if he should let Jimin in on the fact that she was diagnosed with cancer, but the moment doesn’t seem right. 

“She loved Juwon’s drawings,” he reveals instead, smiling brightly. “She wants more.”

“Juwon, baby, did you hear?” Jimin leans forward, getting his pup’s attention. 

“Hm?” 

“My eomma loved your drawings, buddy,” Jungkook says gently. “You did a very good job on them.”

Juwon blushes profusely. He looks exactly like Jimin. Jungkook can’t take this anymore. “I can draw more,” he says shyly. 

“Maybe you can draw some tonight, baby,” Jimin says, dropping a kiss to his pup’s head. “Will you behave? I have to go now.”

Juwon’s shyness deflates, getting replaced by confidence. He raises his brows arrogantly. “I am always well-behaved when hyung tutors me, appa. I'm seven after all.” He throws up a peace sign after, making Jimin and Jungkook erupt in laughter. 

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Tutoring Juwon is a healing balm for Jungkook’s soul. Compared to the first time, Juwon is more concentrated, more eager, and seems to actually enjoy math. He listens attentively when Jungkook explains things to him and he also gets them right away.

“You’re the smartest pup I know,” Jungkook praises him, grinning widely. 

Juwon shrugs nonchalantly. “I know.”

Jungkook chuckles at that. “You know?”

“You don’t know any pups but me because all you do is work,” Juwon points out, “so of course I am the smartest you know.”

“Well, damn, you caught me. Still, I know what other pups your age are like, and trust me when I say they’re not even half as smart as you are, little one.”

Juwon shrugs again, this time without the characteristic nonchalance. His bunny teeth come out, making Jungkook’s heart flutter in unadulterated adoration. 

“Hyung, can you sign my test then?” Juwon asks, jumping up from his chair, reaching for his backpack. “I got my homework back.”

“Your homework?” Jungkook wonders, watching patiently as Juwon returns with a wrinkled piece of paper.

“Yes, my teacher said I should show appa how well I did, and I already showed him, but I also wanted to show you because you helped me.” He hands Jungkook the paper, pointing at the bottom. “You have to sign here, hyung.”

“Sign?” Jungkook is too stunned to really react. He’s supposed to sign?

“Appa sometimes has to sign my tests and stuff, so I thought you should sign this one.”

To Juwon this is apparently absolutely logical. To Jungkook, however, it isn’t. He’s staring at the paper with Juwon’s childlike handwriting and his teacher's praise and he wonders if he should actually sign this. 

“You should do it with green, hyung,” Juwon says decidedly, handing Jungkook a green pencil. 

Out of instinct, Jungkook takes it and actually signs the homework. 

It proves to be worth it when Juwon’s face blooms into the biggest grin ever and he says, “Thank you, hyung!” 

“You’re welcome, little one. It’s you who did extremely well on your homework.”

“Hyung, I changed my dream job,” Juwon announces proudly.

“Yeah? Don’t wanna be a singer anymore?”

“Hmm no,” Juwon says, putting on a mischievous expression. 

“What is your dream job now?” 

“I want to be like you,” Juwon whispers, his doe eyes offering Jungkook the purest thing a child can give you; unlimited acceptance. 

Something in Jungkook’s chest moves. Maybe it’s his heart that wants to break out and hug Juwon itself, or maybe his lungs that want to collapse, or maybe his ribs that are about to crack in two from the love that swells in his sternum. 

Jungkook grabs Juwon and squeezes him. Juwon reciprocates by awkwardly clapping Jungkook’s back. “Hyung?”

“Sorry, little one, I… that was the kindest thing anyone has ever said to me,” Jungkook croaks out, blinking against the tears that gather in his eyes.

“Appa says being kind is very important. Maybe I should be kinder?”

“Your appa is right. He’s very wise.”

“My appa is the best.”

“Yes, he is. You are too. You’re my favorite pup. Absolute favorite. Did I ever tell you that?”

Juwon giggles. “But you only know one pup!”

“Doesn’t matter!”

Juwon withdraws, his eyes growing wide. “But I’m seven! I’m almost no pup anymore!”

He looks so shocked by this realization that it makes Jungkook let out a genuine laugh. 

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

11.12.2024, 6:17PM posted by @Shelli_Shanks

JJK is so freaking good with Jimin’s kid. I don’t want to go into detail about how I know this, but… you guys, he’s such father material. I can’t do this anymore!!!!!! AHHHHH *swan dives out of window*

1789 Likes     450 Shares     349 comments

@mingguk_01: HE’S THE FATHER WHO STEPPED UPPPPPP

@nickinicolle04: Shelli, my JJK queen, did you hear that JJK was allegedly seen picking up a pup from a Taekwondo class? A mother from one of the other pups in that class left a post, but it didn’t get much attraction cuz people didn’t realize she was talking about JJK

—-@Shelli_Shanks: could you please send that post to me? I’d appreciate it a lot, darling

@ymeowgi: me when alphas: 😑 vs me when JJK: 🤭

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Jimin, 14.12.2024, 5:09PM

I’m bored

A fat grin appears on Jungkook’s face. He only worked half a day today and went home early to do the rest of his work in the comfort of his own four walls and specifically while lounging on his couch with a purring Catherine on his lap. Seokjin left her here even after returning from Croatia, claiming “Jungkook could use the company”. Whatever that’s supposed to mean. 

Eagerly, Jungkook texts back.

Jungkook, 5:10PM

Are you now?

Jimin, 5:10PM

You texted back so quickly, wow. I thought you’re working

Jungkook, 5:11PM

You too. You texted back quickly. I’m working from home right now.

Jimin, 5:12PM

I’m waiting for caterers to arrive and set shit up, they’re late

Jungkook, 5:13PM

Are you at your other job?

Jimin, 5:13PM

What if I am?

Jungkook, 5:14PM

No comment.

Jimin, 5:14PM

I like it when you let the boomer in you show

Jungkook, 5:14PM

Because I used a full stop?

Jimin, 5:15PM

Yes, because you used a full stop

Jungkook, 5:16PM

Okay, I will let the bullying over my perfect punctuation skills slide. I had wanted to tell you that my mother sent me a picture of Juwon’s drawings framed on her wall. She used to be a teacher, did I ever tell you that? Either way, she loved them.

(Photo attached)

Jimin takes more than five minutes to answer this time. Jungkook bites on his fingernails, tapping his foot impatiently. Catherine has already meowed in warning. Any more foot tapping and she will jump up from Jungkook’s lap and abandon him for the cat tree.

Jimin, 5:27PM

Framed?! Oh wow… Juwon will be so proud, haha. I have a million more in case you or your eomma want more paintings. Also, if she was a teacher, is that why you’re also good at teaching?

Sorry for the delay btw (by the way), we got busy here! I have to disappear now and work (*screams internally*), but thank you for keeping me company for this short time <3

It’s not the question Jimin asked that has Jungkook gasping at the screen. It’s the damn heart. Jimin sent a heart. A heart. For him?????????

Jungkook’s almost mental breakdown over a heart is interrupted by a call which he only registers because he’s still staring at his damn screen.

He frowns, looking at the unexpected caller ID.

“Sooyoung?” Jungkook breathes into the phone as he picks up her call. They haven’t really spoken since Jungkook confessed his feelings for Jimin to her (and since they “broke up”) and she gave him very unhelpful advice.

“Hey, how are you?” she asks, sounding like she’s on the move. “You free tonight?”

“Uhh, why are you asking?” Jungkook looks around himself, sitting on top of his couch, his laptop abandoned on the coffee table in front of him, work files open.

“You want to be my plus one for this launch party of my new product line? My ex will be there and I kinda want to rub it in his face that I’m over him and replaced him with someone ten times better.”

“With me as your fake…boyfriend?” 

“You just have to be a very attentive date,” she assures him. “I’d be eternally grateful to you. I’d owe you one.”

Jungkook pinches the skin between his brows. “I’m really spent and I’ve got lots of work…”

“Free alcohol, free food… Come on, don’t you have some networking to do?”

“I do enough networking already,” Jungkook mutters.

“You sure about that? You show up maybe once a year to an event. Usually to charity galas. Then again, I’m sure you’re very glad you went to that one gala by–”

“Okay, okay, no need to bring this up right now,” Jungkook cuts in. “I regret telling you about that.”

“So, will you come or not?”

Jungkook thinks about it for a moment. His mother’s words about happiness come to mind. So do Jimin’s words: Be kind to yourself. 

“You know what?” Jungkook says, “Sure, I’m down. Where’s the location?”

“Kim Seokjin was right, you are the best alpha in town!” Sooyoung exclaims cheerfully. 

“You know Seokjin hyung?!” Jungkook gawks.

“We’ve met once or twice. We have each other’s number. He sometimes promotes my stuff on his socials. Love him to death.”

“What the heck?"

“Anyway, I’ll text you the address! Can you be there in two hours? I have to head there now, but I’ll make sure we walk in together once you get there.”

Jungkook is still recovering from the fact that Seokjin knows everyone and their mother, but he mutters, “Yeah, I’ll be there.”

“You’ll love it. Mark my words.”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Without having Juri there to approve of his outfit, Jungkook isn’t sure if he managed to pick a suit that doesn’t scream, I’m about to enter a work meeting.

He went for all black this time around since it compliments the color of his hair the best, which he slicked back like he usually does. He’s wearing a Rolex on his wrist as his only accessory. A ring on his finger would really complete the look, but… patience. Blockers were kept mild today, letting some of his natural scent come through. 

He’s kind of anxious on the way to the event, Dohyun having put on the radio to fill the silence. On most days, Jungkook is thankful the alpha isn’t very talkative. 

But today, he kind of could use some distraction. 

“Could we open a window?” Jungkook requests. “It’s kind of stuffy in here.”

“Are you nervous because you are going without Juri-ssi?”

“Uh, no.” Jungkook pretends to be nonchalant, but opening and closing his suit jacket three times isn’t very cool or relaxed of him.

“I am sure it will be fine. You always do well, sajang-nim.”

“Do I?” 

“Yes, my niece always tells me she thinks you are very cool. Shows me pictures and– What do they call them? Edits?” Dohyun thinks for a second. “Yes, I think that’s the word. She shows me edits of you.”

“Edits?” Jungkook retorts, wondering what the hell the alpha means. “What kind of edits?”

“I must show you on Monday, sajang-nim!”

Jungkook nods, fanning himself again. 

He checks his phone a few more times, making sure Sooyoung didn’t text him any additional important information. He also checks if there is a new text from a certain someone, but since their short interaction earlier, Jimin has been absent. Well, he’s working. Jungkook just kind of misses him, that’s all. 

After a while, they finally arrive at the venue, and Jungkook’s heartbeat skyrockets for a millisecond until he remembers there’s no reason to behave like this. When will he ever get used to public appearances?

Dohyun drops him off and Jungkook tells him to not worry about picking him up later. He’ll just get a taxi or figure it out some other way. Dohyun insists on still being on call just in case. 

As Jungkook walks up to the meeting point he agreed upon with Sooyoung, he already spots her, waiting all alone in the dimly lit area. 

“Hey,” he calls out, raising a hand.

“Oh!” She turns to him with a smile and opens her arms. 

Jungkook goes to hug her, and then immediately nags her. “Why are you waiting out here in nothing but a dress? You’re freezing.”

“Are you playing older brother with me now?” she asks jokingly. 

“I hope you didn’t wait long.”

“Maybe three minutes, so don’t worry, you won’t have to go protective alpha on me. Let’s head inside, yeah? The vultures are desperately waiting for my grand entrance.”

“I’m sure. You look beautiful,” he says kindly.

Sooyoung is wearing a beautiful black dress that surprisingly matches incredibly well with Jungkook’s black suit. He’s glad he intuitively (aka, after two mental breakdowns) decided on this suit.

“Looking good too,” she acknowledges, nodding at him.

“I should have asked for the dress code, but I guess we match well enough?”

“I figured you’d show up in something black and took my chances,” she says with a sly smile. “So, shall we?”

“Am I that predictable?” Jungkook huffs, letting Sooyoung put her hand around his arm. 

They slowly walk inside together, flashes going off immediately. Jungkook instinctively clenches his jaws together, not used to the attention even after nearly a decade of this. 

He can’t even count how many paparazzi there truly are, but the sound of flashes going off like gunshots is enough to momentarily paralyze him. The last time tabloids and other news channels had his picture taken was for the charity gala. Almost six months ago. 

“Yes, you are,” Sooyoung mumbles, leaning in so the photographers don’t hear. 

The action fuels the photographers on, the flashes coming in faster succession. 

“Try a smile,” Sooyoung mutters. 

“I don’t smile in public,” Jungkook says back, trying to joke to hide the fact that he’s too anxious to move his facial muscles. 

She rolls her eyes and drags him along. “Okay, once we enter the venue I’ll let you know who my ex is and then you can be really nice to me and really rude to him when we go and say hello, okay?”

“What did this guy do to you?”

“Oh, you know, called me a bitch, cheated, tried to sabotage my brand by investing in my competitor. That stuff.”

“Dick.”

“Yes, colossal dick.”

“I’ll be on my worst behavior,” Jungkook assures her. “Want me to punch him?”

“Punching can only be the last resort,” Sooyoung laughs. “If anything, I’ll punch him first.”

“Alrighty.”

“Once we say hello to him, you’re free to do whatever you want, by the way."

“What? Trying to get rid of me already?” Jungkook jokes.

A sheepish grin appears on the omega’s face. “No, just aware that you’ll probably be distracted soon. I’m giving you permission to whisk away.”

“Distracted by what? The buffet?”

“Ah, a different kind of buffet, I’d say.”

Jungkook frowns, stopping in his tracks. “What is that supposed to mean?”

“Oh, you know…” Sooyoung shrugs mysteriously and speeds up her walk, leaving Jungkook standing.

A few seconds go by until he notices guests are staring and he manages to get moving again, walking faster to catch up to Sooyoung. 

“Hey,” he says, appearing next to her again, “since when do you speak in riddles?”

The whole interior of the event kind of brushes over Jungkook’s head. He notices everything is kept in pastel colors, matching Sooyoung’s brand Tulip C., but to avoid having to inspect the guests any closer, he keeps his attention on Sooyoung.

“If you had eyes inside your empty head, then you would know I’m not talking in riddles,” Sooyoung says, knocking against Jungkook’s shoulder with her hand balled into a fist.

“Ouch,” Jungkook mutters back, pretending it hurts. 

“Want to try the buffet?” she wonders, moving between topics seamlessly. 

“Yeah, sure,” Jungkook says, realizing he didn’t have dinner. Or lunch, for that matter. 

At the buffet, Jungkook receives not only a plate full of appetizers from Sooyoung to hold, but also a glass of champagne.

Because she is the main figure of this event, people start approaching them. Sooyoung is a good conversationalist and does most of the talking for them. Jungkook’s part only consists of having to introduce himself and praising her event and brand. He’s content with that. The food is actually pretty good, so is the champagne, and, to his utter surprise, he might even be having an actual good time. 

He and Sooyoung keep bickering, sending each other meaningful looks when the people they talk to try a little too hard. 

“I hate her guts,” Sooyoung whispers into his ear, after a famous influencer distances herself again, “she badmouthed me last week and now has the audacity to show up and suck up to me.”

Jungkook raises his brows. “Really?”

“Shocking, huh? I think she had a thing for you too. Did you see the way she ogled you?”

Jungkook was kind of too occupied with his salmon tart to really notice anything in that regard. “She did?”

“In another life, you and I could have hit it off,” she says, “but I kind of think we would have started loathing each other after a year. We’re too similar.”

Her bluntness makes Jungkook chuckle. It reminds him of Seokjin.

“But in this lifetime, my heart belongs to my company and yours to a certain blonde omega,” Sooyoung singsongs, giving him a suggestive grin.

“You take pleasure in reminding me of my hopeless situation, don’t you?” Jungkook laments, shaking his head. 

“I wouldn’t have pegged you as a lover boy when I first met you. I love being proved wrong.”

“Someone has told me I’m surprising…” Jungkook trails off, thoughts going back to Jimin. What is the omega doing right now? Is he still at work? Is he bored? How is Juwon? Who is picking him up from Taekwondo practice today?

“Oh fuck,” Sooyoung hisses, tearing Jungkook from his thoughts. “My ex. Just spotted him.”

She grabs a hold of Jungkook’s arm so quickly, he almost stumbles forward. 

“Oh, there he is,” Sooyoung whispers now. “Okay, just remember, act a little possessive and like you treat me really well, yeah?”

“Possessive?” Jungkook splutters, caught off guard. 

“Do it and you’ll see it’ll do wonders for you as well,” Sooyoung hisses softly under her breath before putting on the fakest smile Jungkook has ever seen. It even exceeds Seokjin’s fake-smile talents and he’s exceptional at it.

“Wonders for me?” Jungkook repeats faintly. 

A group of two approach them; an omega and an alpha. The omega looks oddly familiar, although Jungkook cannot place where the hell he has seen him before. The alpha, however, is completely unfamiliar to Jungkook. He’s wearing a bowtie, looking ridiculous in Jungkook’s eyes already. 

“Hyunjae-ssi,” Sooyoung purrs at the alpha, “how lovely to see you here. I didn’t realize I invited you?”

“Sooyoung-ah, I see you managed to launch early,” the alpha, Hyunjae, bites back. 

Jungkook feels irked right away. The omega hanging from the alpha’s arm stares up at him in awe. 

“Well, we wanted to hit the market before the year ends, you know,” Sooyoung retorts, adding, “Hyunjae oppa.”

Hyunjae’s jaw twitches. 

“You know my date, oppa?” Sooyoung goes on, leaning her head onto Jungkook’s shoulder. 

“Jeon Jungkook,” Hyunjae says dryly, “didn’t expect to see you at an event like this. Skincare… don’t you usually stick to your own industry?”

“Ah yeah,” Jungkook says with a polite smile, grabbing the alpha’s hand, “how could I not come? Sooyoung did an incredible job. I admire her tenacity. I learned a lot from her.”

“Awe, thank you,” Sooyoung bats her eyes at him.

“But, my apologies, what was your name again? I didn’t catch it,” Jungkook asks sweetly. 

“Me?” Hyunjae repeats indignantly.

The question also earns Jungkook a befuddled look by Hyunjae’s date. Is he supposed to know this alpha?

“Yes, you,” Jungkook reinforces, losing his smile. His face events out completely, giving him his characteristic intimidating look that made the tabloids dub him as Seoul’s Most Unapproachable Alpha.

Hyunjae blinks, slightly taken aback. “Yang Hyunjae,” he mutters, averting his gaze.

“What? I didn’t catch that.”

“Yang Hyunjae,” the alpha repeats louder. “We’ve met before.”

“Have we?” Jungkook raises his brows. “Goddess, I usually have good memory. Why don’t I remember you?”

“It’s easy to forget things that aren’t memorable,” Sooyoung provides, nodding in understanding.

Hyunjae seems so irked, he purses his lips. “Ah.”

“My bad,” Jungkook says tonelessly.

Jungkook feels satisfied, checking Sooyoung’s reaction to see if he did a good enough job. 

“Oppa, if you’d excuse us now,” Sooyoung announces, “Jungkook oppa and I have to try the buffet now and take some pictures.”

Sooyoung tugs Jungkook along, making sure her back is turned to Hyunjae and his date. She giggles, biting her lip. “Oh that was incredible, thank you so much.”

“Did I do well enough?” Jungkook laughs lightly. 

“Yes, his ego will be hurt for the next three years.”

“Good,” Jungkook notes, smirking. 

“Well, our little show also caught someone else’s attention. Thought you should know,” Sooyoung says smugly, nudging his shoulder and looking at the other end of the spacious venue.

“Someone else’s–” The words extinguish in Jungkook’s throat. He almost chokes on them, that’s how caught off guard he is when he recognizes the person Sooyoung subtly gestured at. 

Jungkook’s eyes almost fall out of their sockets. He freezes. His brain shuts off as he continues to stare.

“Surprised?” Sooyoung questions teasingly. 

Jungkook doesn’t have it in him to retort anything. He’s still staring at the omega across the room, wearing a suit in the colors of Sooyoung’s new products; a beautiful pastel shade of turquoise. It hugs him in all the right places, giving him an aura that has Jungkook nearly gasping for air. 

Jungkook shouldn’t be so surprised. This happened once already. But twice?

“I’ll leave you to your devices,” Sooyoung murmurs into his ear, clapping his shoulder in encouragement. “We set the scene perfectly. Bet he’s fuming right now from jealousy.”

“What?” Jungkook breathes at Sooyoung as it slowly pieces together in his mind.

“You’re here with another omega. He’ll realize what he’s missing out on. Trust me.” She gives his shoulder a last supportive squeeze before slipping away, sauntering over to a waiter walking around with a tray of drinks.

Jungkook hasn’t moved yet. He returns his gaze to the end of the room, sucking in a sharp breath.

The omega—the damn event planner—is approaching him. 

Jimin is approaching him, taking what’s left of Jungkook’s ability to breathe. 

Jungkook should have realized Sooyoung was up to more than just spiting her ex. All her cryptic remarks… When did she realize that the Jimin Jungkook was talking about was her event planner? What kind of coincidence is this? The fateful kind? The kind that works in Jungkook’s favor? 

Sooyoung certainly seems to have had Jungkook’s best interests in mind, but he isn’t sure if it worked.

Jimin indeed looks… pissed off. His gaze is cold, which somehow sets Jungkook’s nerve-endings on fire. 

Jimin has crossed half of the room when someone steps in his way, making him pause unwillingly. 

A part of Jungkook is disappointed. Jimin was coming to talk to him, maybe to be mad at him—either way, it doesn’t please Jungkook that someone stopped that from happening.

He’s about to set off, driven by the kind of possessiveness he shouldn’t be feeling. The kind that Sooyoung asked from him. The kind he didn’t know he possessed. 

However, to his utter dismay, someone steps into his way too, blocking his view of Jimin. 

It’s none other than Sooyoung’s ex whom he humiliated a few moments ago. 

“Jungkook-ssi,” Hyunjae purrs, grabbing Jungkook’s shoulders, “I think we just got off on the wrong foot.”

“What?” Jungkook is only half-listening. He looks over Hyunjae’s shoulder, trying to get a glimpse of Jimin. 

Jimin is talking to an alpha, that much Jungkook can tell. But there’s something off. Something about the way Jimin’s expression is hardening…

“You see,” Hyunjae laughs dryly, “I didn’t want to bring this up, but I have connections to Tarkida and to–”

Did that fucking alpha just take a step in Jimin’s direction?!

“Sorry?” Jungkook mutters distractedly at Hyunjae.

“I was saying that–"

“Could we have this conversation later? I’m kind of occupied right now,” Jungkook says distractedly, slipping out of Hyunjae’s grip. 

He only has eyes for Jimin. For his omega that looks increasingly uncomfortable around this strange alpha that had the audacity to stop him.

Jungkook is nimble as he slips through the crowd, ignoring some of the people who say his name, probably in hopes of talking to him. 

Something inside of him snaps when he realizes the alpha has raised a hand and placed it on the small of Jimin’s back. 

He’s close enough to hear their conversation now. “Shinyoung-ssi, I am very sorry, but I need to–”

“One dinner,” the douchebag says. “Come on. For future projects we should get to know each other better.”

One dinner?!

Jungkook is almost there. Almost in reach. 

Jimin laughs it off. “Oh, you know how busy I am and– and I have a son–”

“A son?” the alpha repeats, looking Jimin up and down. 

Jungkook can only see him from behind, but from the way Jimin’s expression morphs from hardened and uncomfortable into outright distraught is enough to tell Jungkook in what way that parasite just looked at Jimin. 

“Yes,” Jimin whispers. “I have a son.”

“How old are you? Got yourself knocked up–”

“Jimin,” Jungkook interrupts, coming up to the omega’s side. “I was searching for you.”

Silence falls over them abruptly, the world coming to a halt.

Finally, Jungkook can get a good look at the alpha who got too close for comfort. He’s a balding, middle-aged sleazebag. Jungkook doesn’t recognize him, but he also doesn’t give a flying fuck who stands in front of him. 

From the way the alpha’s eyes widen, he must recognize Jungkook however. Good. 

“Oh, Jungkook-ssi,” Jimin says now, laughing nervously. “Didn’t expect to see you here.”

“I was talking to this omega,” the parasite says, raising a brow at Jungkook. “Come back in a bit, pup.”

Jungkook takes a step towards the alpha, establishing eye contact. Pheromones are raging, and he hears Jimin suck in a sharp breath behind him. Jungkook leans in, hissing, “That’s not how one talks to omegas. At your age, you should have some manners, don’t you think?”

The alpha huffs indignantly. “Excuse me–”

“I think it’d be better if you turn your rude ass around and get out of my sight, yeah?” Jungkook says quietly, making sure only the alpha hears. “We wouldn’t want to cause a scene with all these witnesses around, would we?”

The alpha pulls away, a muscle in his jaw twitching. “I’m not interested in used up products anyway.”

Jungkook has his hand balled into a first already, ready to punch the living daylights out of this knothead, but–

A hand clawing into the back of his suit jacket stops him. “Jungkook.” Jimin’s voice is faint. Weak.

Jungkook lets the asshole walk away. He whirls around to Jimin, noticing his cheeks have turned a shade of red while the rest of his face is incredibly pale.

“Were you about to punch him?” Jimin wonders, eyes wide open. 

“Jimin, are you okay?” Jungkook rasps, brows furrowed in concern. 

“Why are you here?”

“Here, as in at this party or–”

“Yes, as in here at this party,” Jimin stresses. “Since when do you come to skincare launch events?”

“Well, I–”

“You’re dating her, aren’t you?”

“Who? Sooyoung?”

“Yes, her. The gorgeous, successful omega you showed up with. My boss, by the way. Goddess, what a freaking coincidence.”

Jungkook hates himself for it, but he smirks. “Why are you asking? Also, I was your boss before she was your boss.”

Caught, Jimin averts his gaze. “Shouldn’t you be with her right now? Why are you pestering me?”

“Pestering?” Jungkook repeats with a soft laugh. “If my memory serves me right, you were on your way to me—fuming, dare I add—when that asshole interrupted you. I came because I couldn’t watch him make you uncomfortable.”

Jimin is seriously looking pale, just like that one time in the elevator, but he still has the nerve to say, “Did you think I was some damsel in distress?”

“Love,” Jungkook retorts, “don’t test me.”

“I was okay,” Jimin insists. “I was– I can handle myself.”

“I know you can, love. I know you can.”

“Jungkook,” Jimin gulps then, his lips almost turning blue, “I don’t feel so good.”

Jungkook curses under his breath, having gotten the confirmation now that Jimin is having a dizzy spell. “Jimin, can I touch–”

Before the omega can reply, his knees give out. But Jungkook is there, grabbing his waist, holding him up. “Lean on me,” he murmurs. “I got you, omega.”

“Get me out of here,” Jimin pleads quietly, panting heavily. 

“Say no more,” Jungkook answers. 

Smoothly, he wraps one arm around Jimin’s body, making sure the omega is stabilized. “Can you stand?”

“Yeah,” Jimin nods. 

“Okay, just hold onto me. Look forward. Deep breaths, love, you hear?”

“Yes. Deep breaths.”

As fast as possible—and as inconspicuously as possible—Jungkook maneuvers them through the crowd, throwing people who look like they want to approach them dirty looks, making them back off.

There’s only one option here and it’s to get Jimin outside where the air isn’t permeated by pheromones and artificial perfumes. He can’t take the front entrance as there will be the paparazzi, so he heads to the other side where the toilets are, hoping to find some kind of back door.

Jimin is still conscious, but his panting gets worse. 

It’s pure luck that Jungkook guessed right and finds an emergency exit door. He pushes it open recklessly, praying it won’t set off an alarm. 

Out in the open, cold air meets them and they come to a halt. This night graces them with a clear sky, the moon round and imposing. 

“Breathe in,” Jungkook instructs softly, checking Jimin’s temperature by placing the back of his palm on the omega’s forehead. 

“I am breathing,” Jimin retorts faintly, the attitude apparently still there.

“Breathe in deeper."

Jungkook decides Jimin isn’t burning up, which calms him down a little. “You don’t have a fever. That’s good.”

Jimin looks up at him, his eyes glassy. He says nothing. Instead, he grabs Jungkook’s collar and pulls the alpha close, burying his face in Jungkook’s chest. 

“Hold me. I’m going to faint if you don’t.”

The blunt command makes Jungkook jump into action quickly. He does as told, making sure Jimin is secured against him. He can hear the omega sigh before breathing in deeply, as if… as if inhaling lungfuls of Jungkook’s scent.

Jungkook’s heart has the audacity to stumble. 

And Jimin has the audacity to call him out on it. “Your heart… it’s beating so fast.”

“You’re… pressed against me. I’m…”

Jimin seems to brush over that. He has both hands clawed into Jungkook’s suit, nuzzling into it with his face. “Your scent…”

“What?” Jungkook breathes, unsure if he heard right. Goddess in the sky, is he alive? Is this happening?

All of a sudden, Jimin pulls off, taking two steps back while running a hand through his hair. Color has returned to his face, but he’s looking at Jungkook as if the alpha backstabbed him.

“You okay?” Jungkook rasps.

“I– I have to head back inside. The event– it’s not over yet. I have to make sure it goes by smoothly.”

“Jimin, you just almost fainted–”

“It’s just because that asshole smelled horrible and he was all over me,” Jimin mutters, shaking himself in disgust.

“Who was he?”

Jimin falls solemn. “You’re seriously going to ask me?”

“Tell me,” Jungkook reinforces.

“Why? So you can punch him?”

“If he had laid a fucking finger on you, I would have,” Jungkook says without hesitation.

Jimin’s mouth opens, but nothing comes out. He’s blinking rapidly, stunned by Jungkook’s words. 

False confidence and the desire to prove to Jimin that he’s worth getting into some stupid fistfight over, Jungkook walks up to him, grinding out, “By now, you should know that I wouldn’t hesitate to put some balding asshole who thinks he can talk to you in his place.”

Jimin’s breath hitches. His eyes fall onto Jungkook’s lips, and for a second–

“He was my former client,” Jimin mutters, tearing his gaze away. He swallows. “He’s been… He had wanted to hire me again, just to get me to go out with him.”

“Unbelievable,” Jungkook scoffs, anger rising to his chest once again.

“I wouldn’t have taken him up on the offer. I would have politely declined, but… Now I am afraid he’ll spread rumors. Give me a bad reputation. Alphas like him are known for that type of revenge.”

Jungkook knows how the industry works. He’s not ignorant; he knows how omegas’ words get twisted and turned to the benefit of alphas. 

One time, Seokjin rejected an alpha actor who was working on the same project as him. The alpha didn’t take it well and tried to spread defamatory rumors about the omega. It was a shitshow and Seokjin suffered despite not having done anything wrong.

Then there was the one time a senior at Joohyun’s part time job tried to sexually harass her, offering higher payment in return. Jungkook had Yoongi sue the fuck out of him. 

“What is his name?” Jungkook asks emotionlessly, his jaw locked. 

“Lee Shinyoung,” Jimin says with a sigh. “Why?”

“What does he do?”

“He has a clothing brand,” Jimin says idly. “But why are you asking?”

“Clothing brand?” Jungkook repeats. “I see.”

“Jungkook,” Jimin says in warning, voice dropping an octave.

If he bothers you, I’ll just buy his company. Problem solved.

Obviously, he cannot tell Jimin that. So he backtracks. “Are you still dizzy?”

Jimin is skeptical. He analyzes Jungkook's face, waiting for the alpha to spill his actual thoughts. Eventually, he mumbles, “No, but I fear it might come back. I feel… My legs feel like jelly. I hate this. I hate this so much. I don’t want to feel like this.”

“Okay, I’ll get you home.”

“W-what?”

“Come on, I’ll call my driver,” Jungkook says, gesturing for them to leave.

“Wait, I can’t leave. I have to oversee that the rest of the catering goes well. There’s a cake coming. And then later the–”

“Jimin,” Jungkook cuts in, grabbing the omega’s face. “My darling Jimin, please stop driving me crazy.”

Jimin’s full lips part, a soft sound escaping them. The two of them stare at each other for a moment. It takes every ounce of willpower inside of Jungkook’s bones to not lean down and just kiss the omega. Just kiss him and make him forget he was stressing over useless things. Just– Just abandon any damn decorum and do what he’s been dreaming about at night and what he’s been wanting to do ever since he met Jimin. 

“Give me a moment,” Jungkook grinds out instead, letting go of Jimin. 

He gets his phone from the inside of his blazer and hastily searches for Sooyoung’s number. For a heartbeat, he doesn’t expect the omega to actually pick up, but after the fifth ring, she does, asking, “Did you fall into the toilet or something?”

He puts her on speaker. 

“What? No–”

“You disappeared an hour into the event. Did you manage to talk to Jimin? Was he–”

“Sooyoung,” Jungkook presses out. Okay, maybe he shouldn’t have put her on speaker. “I’m– I’ll make it short. I need to take Jimin home. He’s sick.”

“Shit, really?”

“Yes. He needs to rest, and you need to tell me that he isn’t needed and can leave.”

“Things are going smoothly. He took care of everything, so yes, by all means, take him home and make sure he rests.”

“Good. Thank you.”

“And tell him I’ll hire him again! Hopefully he’ll be wearing a huge rock from you on his finger then–”

Jungkook hangs up hastily, hoping Jimin didn’t hear that last bit. 

“Let’s go,” he says to Jimin. 

To his relief, Jimin only whispers, “Okay.”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Jungkook called a taxi. 

He deeply regrets drinking alcohol and not having his own car at his disposal to ensure Jimin’s comfort. But he also didn’t want to call Dohyun this late in the evening, so taxi it is. 

He helps Jimin inside first, making sure the omega doesn’t hit his head as he lowers himself. Once Jimin is seated, Jungkook mutters, “Let me buckle you in.”

Again, Jimin lets him. He does follow Jungkook’s actions closely, his breathing coming at an irregular pace. 

As soon as Jimin is secured, Jungkook closes the door and heads to the other side, getting in quickly. “You may go,” he says to the driver, fastening his own seatbelt. 

The first few minutes are silent, only the faint radio music filling the space of the taxi. Jungkook keeps stealing glances at the omega who is staring out of the window, fiddling with his fingers on his lap. 

But Jungkook never looks for long. He feels like he’s walking on thin ice. To distract himself, he checks his phone. Juri texted him. His breathing stops for a moment when he opens the message and sees a picture of himself and Sooyoung in very bad quality. It looks like someone took it secretly. Which is weird, because weren’t there a million paparazzi taking pictures anyway? And a dedicated photographer, making sure to document the whole event?

Juri, 9:02PM

Why in the Goddess’ revered name are you at an event without me knowing?

Jungkook, 9:23PM

Where did you get this freaking picture… 

Juri, 9:24PM

You really thought I wouldn’t find out? I know about everything you do, sajang-nim. Nothing is safe from me. 

Slightly spooked, Jungkook closes his phone again. Goddess, Juri is scary.

It’s right then that Jimin leans over and… lowers his body, resting his head on Jungkook’s lap. “I’m tired,” he mumbles, hands folded beneath his ear. 

Jungkook’s entire body tenses. He doesn’t dare breathe, wondering if his eyes are playing tricks on him. 

“Are you dizzy again?” he mumbles, wondering what the hell he is supposed to do with his hands. He’s holding them up, making sure to not touch Jimin. 

“Just a little. Maybe it’s the alcohol.”

“You had alcohol?”

“One glass of champagne.”

“I doubt that makes anyone dizzy.”

“My hormones are messed up, remember? Omegaologist said alcohol has a stronger effect on me. So maybe I’m batshit drunk right now.”

“Mh,” Jungkook hums. “I’m sorry you’re still dealing with that problem.”

“It’s because of all these damn alphas in the world with their stupidly repugnant scents,” Jimin mutters, shifting his head on Jungkook’s lap to be more comfortable.

Jungkook has never been more tense. “Yes, damn us alphas,” he replies breathily. 

“When they try to impress me with their pheromones, it sets my omega off. I’m– Changwon used to heavily scent me. Then, during pregnancy, he stopped doing it. Apparently that confused my body. After, when he had this fucking epiphany that I’m desirable again because I’m not swollen and round anymore, he tried to do it again and I just… I threw up. Passed out.”

“Fuck,” Jungkook says. A bitter taste shoots into his mouth. 

“Yeah, well, pregnancy and all that messed me up. I was ugly and miserable.”

“You’re not messed up, Jimin,” Jungkook says gently. “And I am very sure you weren’t ugly at any point in your life.”

“You haven’t seen the real me yet,” Jimin mutters tiredly. He falls silent then, but he doesn’t move an inch, staying comfortable on Jungkook’s lap.

“Maybe you haven’t seen the real me yet either,” Jungkook answers cautiously. He wanted to say it in a teasing manner, pretending to have a mysterious quality, but it comes out completely different. His voice is husky, rushed almost, and his chest rises in a shaky breath.

“You’re perfect. It’s annoying,” Jimin retorts with a huff.

“I’m perfect?” Jungkook repeats, letting out a laugh.

“Have you seen yourself?”

“Are you complimenting me, omega?”

“Tell me something,” Jimin demands then, changing the topic seamlessly. “Just… anything.”

Jungkook thinks for a moment. What is there that he could tell Jimin? He has no jokes at his disposal because he’s not a funny alpha. Nor is he witty. He isn’t a talkative person either. He has no cool stories, for his life consists of very little fun or action. 

But he is genuine. Maybe not in all areas of life, but when it comes to Jimin he is. 

“I hate talking in front of people. I hate waking up early. I hate wearing suits–”

“You hate wearing suits?”

“You don’t know how horrible it was to get used to them. I know technically I could give myself some slack and not wear one, but there’s the image problem. I have a reputation, remember?”

“A reputation you love to nurture.”

“Let an alpha have hobbies, dear Goddess,” Jungkook says with a theatrical sigh.

It makes Jimin chuckle, which feels like a win. It even makes the taxi driver chuckle—which reminds Jungkook of the fact that he’s in this vehicle with them, listening to their conversation. 

“I also hate having to be responsible all the time,” Jungkook admits. His voice gets quieter, rawer. “It was always like that. I always naturally assumed roles that would give me a lot of responsibility and burdens. I’m good at that. But sometimes… sometimes I wish I could just not care. I wish I could turn it off and be carefree. Maybe do something crazy like lie in bed all day, you know.” He chuckles, rearing back, “Sorry, I know that wasn’t funny. Something actually crazy would be to take vacation for a whole month. Or to actually decorate my house. I’ve been meaning to do that for four years now. I also haven’t read a book in forever. Maybe you need to recommend one to me, just like you did with the songs and the show. If you did, I would read it. I trust you like that.”

Jungkook looks down at Jimin, waiting to see if the omega is going to reply. Jungkook’s lips morph into an endeared smile as he realizes that Jimin has his eyes closed and his lips are slightly parted. He must have fallen asleep.

Finally, Jungkook dares to put his hands down. He keeps his right one between his chest and Jimin’s back while the other one runs through Jimin’s hair. 

Quietly, so the driver can’t hear him, he whispers, “And I hate that I can’t make you happy. I hate that I’m not able to be enough for you to trust me. I hate– No, no, I don’t hate it. That’s not true. I hate nothing about it except for the fact that maybe we met at the wrong time. I might love it. Talking to you, getting rejected by you, getting to know you. I don’t know. Tell me, Jimin, is this love? Am I in love with you?”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Jimin doesn’t wake up when they arrive at his building, so Jungkook pays the driver quietly, leaving a huge tip, before slowly maneuvering Jimin out of the car. 

He straps Jimin’s purse across his torso and then picks Jimin up bridal style, making sure Jimin’s head is safely resting against his chest. 

Jimin isn’t as light as Juwon, but it doesn’t portray a problem for Jungkook to carry him to the building, get inside the elevator (he spends the ride staring at Jimin’s ethereal sleeping face), and then reach his front door.

He hesitates. Should he ring the doorbell? Is someone home? Or should he get Jimin’s keys and… open the door?

Jungkook opts for the bell. 

It takes a while until he hears motion and then a curse, before the door is pulled open hastily, revealing Jimin’s friend, Hoseok. “Did he get drunk and call you?!” Hoseok wonders, eyebrows raised at the peacefully sleeping Jimin in Jungkook’s arms.

“Uh no. He got dizzy,” Jungkook explains. “The– The hormone issues?”

“Oh.” Hoseok’s expression changes in an instant. “Fuck. Thought we were past that.”

“Yeah, I took him home and he fell asleep on the way. I didn’t want to wake him, so…” He clears his throat, knowing he can’t do anything to make the situation less awkward. 

Hoseok gives him a long stare before he starts nodding. “You did well. Yes. Very well. Uh… Why don’t you do me a favor and carry sleepy head to his bed, hm?”

“Oh, yes, sure.” 

It’s not like Jungkook was going to just… leave Jimin on the doorstep, but carrying him to his bed? Yeah, that definitely didn’t cross his mind either. 

He locks his jaw as he steps over the threshold. “My shoes–”

“Goddess, keep the damn shoes on,” Hoseok cuts in, walking ahead to lead the way. “His bedroom is over here.”

“Is the little one asleep?”

“Who?”

Jungkook cringes. “Oh, Juwon. Sorry.”

“Oh, yes, put him to bed two hours ago, I think. Came out two times to ask when Jimin will come home. He’s a menace.”

Jungkook nods, unsure what to reply.

Hoseok holds open the door to Jimin’s bedroom. From the living room, light reaches the hallway, illuminating the entrance of Jimin’s bedroom too.

Jungkook tries not to look (analyze) Jimin’s room, but the first thing he sees is a made bed with cream-colored sheets and a fluffy blanket on top. Jimin has a million pillows, all of them arranged neatly and in harmonious colors.

The rest of the room is half covered in darkness, making Jungkook squint. Like the rest of Jimin’s apartment, it is lived in. Clothes hang over the back of a chair, a small pile lies in the corner next to the bed, and an empty mug stands on Jimin’s nightstand, next to two books, a hand cream, and a candle. 

Jungkook halts for a moment, overwhelmed by all the intimate impressions. 

Then, of course, the scent hits him, firing off all his damn nerve-endings. He holds back from inhaling Jimin’s scent and giving himself an aneurysm. 

Hoseok walks into the room, gaze sweeping over Jungkook’s paralyzed form. “You good?”

“Oh, yeah, uh… Could you maybe pull back the covers?”

Hoseok nods once, pulling off the fluffy blanket and throwing it onto the floor carelessly. Then he pulls down the duvet, gesturing for Jungkook to put Jimin down.

“Isn’t he heavy?” the beta laughs. “How long have you been carrying him?”

“He’s as light as a feather,” Jungkook replies smoothly, gently putting Jimin down. He makes sure to pay extra attention to his head, creating an indent in the pillow for it to fit in perfectly.

Hoseok observes him for a moment before the sound of a door creaking open makes him mutter under his breath, “Shit, Juwon is up.” He’s out of the room a second later, leaving Jungkook alone with Jimin. 

Jungkook gulps. His hands shake as he tucks Jimin in, making sure the covers keep him warm. He wonders if it would have been better to let Hoseok change Jimin’s clothes and just leave, but a part of him doesn’t want to leave. 

Frankly, who is he kidding? No part of him wants to go. No part of him wants to ever miss this sight again. No part of him wants to ever have to say goodbye to Jimin again. 

“Fuck, you’re so damn beautiful.” The words escape his lips on their own accord. 

Jimin might be drooling. He already drooled on Jungkook’s pants earlier in the car, but Jungkook doesn’t care that the fabric is damp. 

Once he starts to feel like a voyeur for staring at Jimin asleep, he runs a hand through his hair and mentally chides himself. It’s time to go, idiot.  

He slowly tears his gaze away, ready to leave.

He is stopped by a soft voice.

“Don’t go,” Jimin says sleepily. 

Jungkook pauses, looking at the curled up omega. His brain is only half-registering he’s in the omega’s bedroom. The space where he sleeps, nests, and…

Like a conditioned dog, Jungkook whispers, “What did you say, love?”

“You smell so good,” Jimin sighs dreamily. “Your scent, it…”

“It what?” Jungkook asks. He needs to know. Goddess, he really needs to know.

Jimin doesn’t reply. 

Jungkook waits for a moment, but Jimin is seemingly drifting in and out of sleep. 

“Sleep well, love,” Jungkook says then, kissing the tip of his fingers before placing them on Jimin’s forehead. 

Finally, he actually turns around and is about to head to the door, but then—because he really knows how to torture Jungkook—Jimin murmurs, “Why are you doing this to me…”

Jungkook’s throat runs dry. 

He takes a step back and leans down. Inhibitions are thrown out of the window. Jungkook inclines his head, unable to withstand the urge to trace his fingers along Jimin’s face. His cheek is squished against the pillow and his lips are parted. 

“What am I doing to you, hm? Tell me, love. I want to know.”

Silence. 

Torturous fucking silence.

If Jungkook wasn’t so utterly head over heels in love with Jimin, he’d feel irritated now. But all he manages is, “You’re killing me.” He sighs dreamily. “You make me want to speak a damn prayer to the Goddess–”

“Everything okay?”

Hoseok’s voice catches Jungkook so off guard, he almost flinches. 

He is caught red-handed. The color that rises to his cheeks reflect that. He’s glad the room is half-dark, so when he turns to Hoseok with an awkward smile on his face the beta probably can’t see it. “Yeah, sorry, I thought he had said something, but he’s fast asleep. Very heavy sleeper. Yeah. Hm. Yes.”

Hoseok stands on the threshold to Jimin’s bedroom, Juwon holding his hand. 

“Hyung!” the pup exclaims, eyes lighting up.

“Hello, little one,” Jungkook says, mustering up a smile for the pup who tears himself out of Hoseok’s grip and comes running over. 

Juwon throws himself against Jungkook, hugging his legs. “Did you bring appa home?” Juwon asks sleepily, nuzzling against him.

His heart cannot handle this cuteness. Jungkook pets Juwon’s head, humming, “Yeah, he wasn’t feeling so well. But he just needs some sleep.”

“Maybe you should stay with him?” Juwon suggests innocently, eyes sparkling as he looks up at Jungkook. “When I don’t feel well, appa also stays with me.”

Jungkook is at a loss of words. His mouth is agape but no actual words come out.

“Juwon-ah, give appa a kiss and then head back to your room, hm? You need sleep!” Hoseok commands softly, making Jungkook realize the beta has been watching him, arms crossed over his chest. 

Juwon doesn’t look happy about it, but removes himself from Jungkook and grumbles, “Okaaay.”

“What about you?” 

Hoseok’s blunt question makes Jungkook blink. “Me?”

“Will you stand there for the rest of the night?”

“Oh, uh, no, I’m– I’m leaving,” he stammers, running both hands over his face. 

“You are?” Hoseok pulls his brows up.

“Yeah,” Jungkook croaks out. “Thanks for– thanks for letting me carry Jimin inside.”

“You’re welcome?”

Jungkook rushes past Hoseok, nodding. “Goodnight.”

It almost feels like he’s fleeing from the apartment as he hurries through the hallway and slips out the door. 

He takes the stairs instead of waiting for the elevator.

He runs, panting heavily from all the emotions coursing through him.

Outside of the building he foolishly searches for his car before remembering it’s at home. 

“Fuck.”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

GAT CEO Jeon Jungkook in a blooming relationship with Tulip C. CEO Kang Sooyoung? A new match made in heaven? We at Omestyle have the deets!

Yesterday’s launch event of Tulip Cosmetics’ new product in the heart of Seoul was a major success. Everyone who is someone attended and made sure to be the first to try the products of the highly anticipated new skincare line by the popular brand. But not only that; as always, the famous alphas, betas, and omegas of our beloved city were busy networking, ogling and simultaneously ignoring each other.

However, CEO and founder of Tulip Cosmetics, Kang Sooyoung, showed up with a name that everyone has heard of before who makes sure to keep track of Seoul’s list of Alpha Bachelors. Someone they could not ignore. Yes, you guessed right, the business omega showed up with none other than Jeon Jungkook, CEO of GoldenAegis Technologies and perhaps the most unexpected guest of the entire evening. Previously released guest lists said nothing about his appearance, making it likely that it was kept as a surprise. 

The two showed up arm in arm, stealing everyone’s breath. It inevitably sparked rumors among everyone attending. How in the Goddess’ name did these two find each other? How long has this been going on? Will we get an official confirmation soon? And why did Jeon Jungkook leave so early? Did he have a work emergency to attend to?

So far, neither Tulip C. nor GAT have released a statement regarding the relationship status of their respective CEOs.

But one thing is safe to say: Jeon Jungkook won’t be headlining the List of Most Unapproachable Alpha Bachelors next year, he’ll be in the news announcing his mating ceremony!

--------------------

14.12.2024, 3:23AM posted by @Yunkipinknee in r/JeonJungkook

it’s the middle of the night, but I literally can’t sleep after having read that one article @/Omestyle posted. What do you mean JJK went there with Kang Sooyoung? Who even is that? I’m going crazy here! Like— Do we seriously think they’re dating? I really don’t want to think about that…

1759 likes    1001 shares    450 comments

@LittleBookOwl19: Reading this after doing a deep dive on JJK and Jimin… I don’t feel so well. What a way to destroy my fantasy and making me return to reality

@omnommimi: Of course he’s dating some other rich chaebol… Y’all really thought a successful alpha like him was gonna date some nugu? 

@lady_aphrael: I bet it’s just decoy to protect Jimin

@bunnybeavz: well, maybe they’re just friends?? Can’t a fucking alpha have some omega friends? I mean he’s also besties with KSJ, isn’t he?

---------------------------

14.12.2024, 9:12AM posted by @elisesweetcloud in r/JeonJungkook

hey uhm does anyone know what Jimin looks like? Asking because I was a waiter at the Tulip C launch event and I’m pretty sure I saw JJK talk to a blonde omega and save him from getting groped by some ugly looking bastard… Either way, JJK and Kang Sooyoung didn’t seem like they were romantic with e/o so I think we can relax. They seemed like friends? I also overheard gossip that she’s apparently dating some other alpha? I also heard she’s actually only into omegas, so we safe ig y’all

467 likes   156 shares   88 comments

@bichenyllz: if she’s only into omegas she’s gonna try to steal Jimin instead, fuck 

—-@justfalline: fr, like have u seen that omega??? she’s gorgeous, she could have anyone

—-@bichenyllz: she cant be prettier than Jimin tho, can she?? hehe just kidding, JJK is only surrounded by beautiful and kind people

@Shelli_Shanks: Jimin is exceptionally beautiful, fyi.

@Daydreamerin: I really hope we’ll receive some good news soon :( like I NEED them together. I think I’ll go crazy if it doesn’t work out between them. Like Jimin would actually be insane if he fucks it up. JJK is too good for him anyway. Like, who is he? He’s just some omega, meanwhile JJK built up a whole empire out of nothing and is rich and successful. He deserves to finally have a submissive omega that completes him.

—-@coisadialice: wtf, you sound insane. “Submissive omega”??? Touch some grass

—-@Daydreamerin: I just want them to be united and mate like the Goddess intended so he can fulfill his alpha role and Jimin his omega role

—-@ymeowgi: big, fat side-eye girl…

------------------------------

15.12.2024, 11:23AM posted by @Shelli_Shanks in r/JeonJungkook

It’s been brought to my attention that some of y’all are making weird ass comments about JJK and JM. I hope you know that we have no actual influence on their private life and this platform is supposed to be fun and unserious. Don’t cross boundaries like that, guys, seriously. 

(JJK likes to sue, btw.)

535 likes  67 shares  57 comments 

@2cool4koomi: Oh Goddess, what’s going on? Dumb knotheads acting up again?

@sopeosophy: who is surprised? Let’s be real? This platform is growing a lot everyday. It’s only a matter of time until it reaches mainstream

—-@satanspawn_: I’d argue it’s already mainstream atp

@babybimge: I’m worried people will cross boundaries… I really hope nothing is going to happen because I’ve also been seeing a lot of inappropriate comments, especially underneath that article

—-@Shelli_Shanks: Yeah that is also my worry….

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

It brings a smile to Jungkook’s face when he checks his phone at the gym and realizes Jimin texted him. It’s Saturday, so he wonders why Jimin is already up, and his smile turns into a frown.  

Jimin, 6:45AM

Hey, just wanted to say thank you for taking me home. I’m kind of embarrassed, but what’s new, right? 

Jungkook, 6:50AM

Are you better this morning?

Jimin, 6:52AM

Oh, you’re awake

Jungkook, 6:53AM

I’m at the gym

Jimin, 6:54AM

I see…

Jungkook, 6:56AM

You didn’t answer the question. 

Jungkook stares at his phone for a few minutes, waiting for Jimin to assure him he is okay, but the omega doesn’t come online again, leaving Jungkook gnawing on the inside of his cheek. 

Because of what happened yesterday, Jungkook’s worry shoots through the roof and he promptly dials Jimin’s number. His heart thumps in his chest as he waits for the call to connect. 

“Hello?”

“Juwon-ah?” Jungkook breathes, surprised to hear the pup’s voice instead of Jimin’s.

“Hyung?” Juwon says equally surprised. 

“Yes, it’s me. Uhm, is your appa around?” 

“He is in the bathroom.”

“Oh,” Jungkook says, wanting to facepalm himself. “I will call back later, buddy.”

“Appa!” Juwon yells in the background, “hyung is on the phone!”

“Juwon, no no, I’m okay,” Jungkook rambles, tugging on his hair. He’s glad the gym is nearly empty or others would be witnessing his breakdown now.

“Juwon, what did you say, baby?” Jimin’s voice is soft, definitely tired.

“Hyung is on the phone. He wants to talk to you.

“Fuck,” Jungkook mutters under his breath. This is not what he wanted.

“What?” Jimin sounds stressed. “Okay, give me the phone, Juwon. And go back to bed, baby. It’s way too early.”

“I’m not tired anymore. I want to watch TV.”

“Fine,” Jimin grumbles, “but only forty minutes, then you need to turn it off again.”

“Okay,” Juwon mutters, audibly annoyed by the forty-minute limit. 

“Jungkook?” 

Jimin’s voice makes Jungkook’s heart skip a beat. It’s been suffering a lot ever since meeting Jimin. 

“Hello?” Jimin asks again.

“Sorry, I was– I’m here,” Jungkook breathes, finding his voice again.

“Why are you calling?”

“I got worried. You didn’t reply all of a sudden,” Jungkook admits honestly.

“So you… called?”

“Yeah, had to make sure you’re okay. Are you?”

Jimin is quiet for a moment. Jungkook can hear his soft breathing and the little sigh he lets out. “I’m a little dizzy, but maybe that’s because I didn’t sleep enough. Hoseok hyung had to leave early because he has a client and… I don’t know, I got a weird email.”

“A weird email?”

“Lee Shinyoung’s secretary sent me an email in the middle of the night telling me they’re withdrawing the offer to plan their launch event.” 

“They sent you an email about that in the middle of the night?”

“Yep…” Jimin exhales loudly. “Anyway, besides the point. It’s irrelevant. I– I’m fine. Thank you for checking in on me.”

“Do you need to see a doctor?”

“I’ll go Monday if it doesn’t get better.”

Jungkook grinds his molars together. “You shouldn’t wait. Give me a call and I’ll take you to urgent care if your condition worsens.”

“Jungkook, I can take care of myself,” Jimin laughs tonelessly. 

“I know, lo– I know.” He exhales, adding, “You can definitely take care of yourself, but I just wanted to offer.”

“Okay, thank you,” Jimin says curtly. “Look, I have to go now. We’ll see each other at the Christmas party, yeah?”

A bad feeling is brewing in Jungkook’s stomach. “What about tutoring?”

“I think Juwon doesn’t need it for now,” Jimin says, indirectly confirming Jungkook’s bad feeling. “We can… We can see after Christmas maybe.”

“Oh, I see,” Jungkook answers. 

“Yeah… Anyway, I gotta hang up.”

“Jimin,” Jungkook croaks out at the last moment. 

“Hm?”

“Make sure to get rest, yeah? I wish you a lovely weekend.”

“I will,” Jimin whispers, his tone of voice revealing unsaid things. “Thank you for checking in.”

Reluctantly, Jungkook hangs up, looking out into the darkness outside. The sun will only rise in an hour maybe. The world is still dark and obscured, and Jungkook doesn’t think this will be a good day. 

His stomach is in knots, and every breath he takes feels heavy on his lungs. 

He’ll go check on his mother later after doing some work. He’ll keep himself busy so he won’t ruminate about this and simply show up at Jimin’s door to make sure he is okay.

I got a weird email.

Jungkook pushes his tongue against the inside of his cheek. He opens his phone again, dialing Juri’s number.

“Yes, sajang-nim,” Juri says, sounding wide-awake, “hungover?”

Jungkook cuts straight to the chase. “I need you to find out everything you can about a certain Lee Shinyoung.”

“Lee Shinyoung… The name isn’t familiar.”

“Not our industry, but I want to know everything about him.”

“Consider it done. Do I need to know what this is about?”

“No,” Jungkook says, “just gather some information. That’s all. I’ll see you at the office in forty minutes. I’m going to finish off at the gym first.”

“You sure you don’t need a ginger shot once you get to the office? I’m sensing you’re in one of your moods.”

Jungkook scowls deeply. “One of my moods? What is that supposed to mean?”

“Oh, nothing,” Juri singsongs, hanging up on him. 

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Late nights at the office are Jungkook’s favorite. They are his version of down time. Juri has already left, and so his floor is quiet and empty, giving Jungkook a sense of peace despite the infinite load of work he has. 

It also gives him time to psychoanalyze his life. A few years ago he wouldn’t have done so, but the recent months changed him for the better. He’s got Jimin to thank for that. The omega made him question things. 

Speaking of Jimin… the omega hasn’t texted Jungkook back since that Saturday. The alpha had sent him a simple question: Got any book recommendations?

Jimin didn’t react to it. It’s been three days since then. Today is Tuesday, the day they usually do Juwon’s tutoring. Jungkook has felt empty most of the day, diving deep into work matters to avoid thinking too much about it.

Today, Juri also showed him the suit he will be wearing for the Christmas party, which she had apparently custom made. He tried it on, and it fit perfectly, complimenting his features. But he couldn’t really muster up any excitement, for the Christmas party feels like a final stop.

It’s in two days. Two days. Two days that symbolize the end of his and Jimin’s work relationship and perhaps also the one outside of work.

A part of Jungkook doubts Jimin would just… drop him. Not after how close they’ve gotten, right? The way Jimin talked to him, the way he sought Jungkook’s comfort at Sooyoung’s event, and in the taxi, and then at his apartment… Jungkook might be delusional, but being delusional is what got him to this point in his life. 

He is clinging to Seokjin’s encouraging words, knowing Jimin needs time. The omega survived an abusive asshole and had to raise a pup on his own—is still raising a pup on his own.

He is also seven years younger than Jungkook. It’s not important in relation to Jimin’s maturity because he’s lightyears ahead of Jungkook in that sense, but it’s important in relation to the possibility that he… doesn’t feel the same desire to settle down. 

Jungkook didn’t realize he had that urge when he went to all the fruitless blind dates his mother arranged for him, but he knew the second his eyes fell upon Jimin that he wouldn’t mind settling down with him. 

His stomach clenches painfully when he thinks about the Christmas party. Jimin will be there. So Jungkook will at least have the chance to talk to him then. 

He should start thinking about what he wants to say. There’s so much he could tell Jimin. So many words. Has he ever had this many words for one person?

“I need to stop making myself crazy,” Jungkook mutters to himself, deciding he should call it a day—or night. He has a meeting early in the morning, so getting some sleep might be the best option.

As he stands up, his eyes fall onto the pile of presents that has accumulated, Jimin’s present already among it. He feels a little proud of it. 

Jimin allowed him to buy a present, so that means he probably doesn’t want to cut off contact after GAT’s Christmas party, right? Since it takes place five days before Christmas. 

He stares at the wrapped up present for a long time, frozen. He operates on autopilot when his phone starts ringing. “Yeah?”

“You good, pup?” Yoongi asks gruffly as Jungkook takes the call. 

“Oh, hyung, what’s up?” Jungkook says soberly. “You’re kind of catching me at a bad time. I’m about to leave the office.”

“Can’t spare your hyung five minutes?” 

It comes to Jungkook’s attention that the most interaction he has with people is through the phone and not face to face these days. But in this case, talking to Yoongi provides a rarity Jungkook will gladly engage in.

“Trying to guilt-trip me?”

“Of course, that’s what I do best,” Yoongi says smoothly. “Well, after Seokjin,” he adds on second thought.

Jungkook stifles a laugh, turning off his monitor. “You talked to him recently?”

“I was gonna call him after calling you. Or should I not?”

“He’ll be happy to hear from you so he can boast about his new relationship.”

“Pff,” Yoongi retorts with a scoff. “I guess we’ll be trying to out-boast each other then.”

“Huh?”

“What did you do today, Jungkook-ah? You feeling okay? How’s your eomma?"

Jungkook knows Yoongi is deflecting but he lets it slide. “I’m good, hyung. I made peace with the situation. Eomma is… She’s adjusting. It’s difficult but she’s not letting it break her spirit. And what I did today… I actually went shopping."

“Shopping? You?” Yoongi sounds surprised. “Did you buy something expensive?”

"I guess you could say that, yeah."

"What's with that cryptic ass answer?"

"Well," Jungkook says, feeling smug, "I bought a clothing brand."

The things Juri found out about a certain bald-headed asshole made Jungkook feel a little…toxic. A little like the rich, entitled asshole many people think he is. Jimin might not be his, but he won’t let anyone fuck with him.

“A clothing brand?” Yoongi repeats loudly. 

“I’ll perhaps tell you more about it some other time. Maybe next poker round?”

“You coming? Namjoon and I are thinking late January once he’s back from his ski vacation with Megan.”

“That works perfectly. I’ll fit my schedule around it.”

“Cool,” Yoongi says casually, “so… wanna meet my boyfriend in January as well?”

“Ohhh,” Jungkook exclaims, “the mysterious boyfriend!”

“Yeah, yeah, Namjoon has already teased me about it. You know how he gets sometimes.”

“Of course I want to meet him, hyung. You know I’d love to."

“He makes me feel feral,” Yoongi says bluntly. “He’s a know-it-all, but Goddess knows I’m into that.”

“I can’t wait to meet him then,” Jungkook chortles, shaking his head at his friend’s blunt honesty. “I love seeing you happy.”

“Will I also see you happy soon, pup?” Yoongi inquires. “I could sue that dickhead, you know. Chang-something. Do you think that would work on your omega?”

“Jimin isn’t my omega,” Jungkook corrects. “But… I’m working on it. Hopefully.”

“Okay,” Yoongi sighs. “Keep me updated, yeah? I’ll let you go now, so you can get some sleep.”

“I should just install a bed in my office. That would make things easier.”

“Are you trying to compete with other workaholics?” 

“Always, hyung,” Jungkook jokes, “Always.”

By the time Jungkook gets off the phone, his watch tells him it’s almost midnight.

He massages the back of his neck as he walks to the elevator. He really needs to pay the chiropractor a visit and get his bones back in place.

His eyes are dry as the Sahara Desert right now, and so he is eternally grateful for the extra pair of glasses Juri makes sure to keep in his desk. 

The elevator ride always feels like a moment to unwind. Instead of checking his phone, or thinking about work, or about other pressing matters (like Jimin, it’s always Jimin), Jungkook simply lets his mind sit in peaceful emptiness after the conversation with Yoongi.

He feels exhausted beneath his tenacity and diligence. Work is stressful, but he’s good at work. It’s his safe space, something he apparently defines his self-worth over. He had this realization years ago, but only recently did it become so glaringly obvious, he couldn’t feign ignorance over it any longer.

Jungkook runs a hand through his hair, letting out a sigh, adjusting his glasses a heartbeat later. He needs to change something next year if he doesn’t want to fall into depression or, goddess forbid, burn out.

He’s glad when the elevator finally reaches the parking level. He’s looking forward to falling into bed and putting on some music to fall asleep to. Preferably Cigarettes After Sex songs.

Except, when the elevator doors open, Jungkook almost runs into someone.

Someone very specific. Someone with a scent like cherries and temptation. A scent like heaven. A scent that dives into Jungkook’s nose, invades his senses, and makes him blurt, “Jimin?!”

It’s nearly midnight, but Jimin—dressed in quite literally a gray wool pyjama set and a beige coat on top—is blocking his way.

“Oh,” Jimin breathes.

“Oh,” Jungkook breathes back, paralyzed from shock.

Because neither of them is moving, the elevator doors threaten to close on Jimin, bumping into him. Jungkook acts before thinking, grabbing Jimin’s hand, pulling him inside. 

Jimin falls against his chest, letting out a startled sound. He looks up at Jungkook, an indecipherable expression lingering on his face. Jungkook wishes he was better at reading emotions, better at taking them apart, better at interpreting their deeper meaning. 

But he can’t fathom why the hell Jimin is here, nor why he is looking at Jungkook like this. 

“You’re wearing glasses,” is the first thing that comes over Jimin’s lips, followed by, “I didn’t know you wear glasses.”

“Sometimes,” Jungkook says back, his voice husky. Neither of them have made any attempt at moving yet. 

“They suit you,” Jimin whispers, two red circles appearing on his cheeks. 

“You’re wearing pyjamas,” Jungkook retorts, not having anything nonchalant to say. He didn’t think he could feels this way about pyjamas.

“I– I was sleeping. And then I had this dream and I just— I left without thinking.”

“What about Juwon?"

“With my parents in Busan for a few days before Christmas. He’s coming back on the weekend,” Jimin reveals breathily.

Juwon is in Busan? Why didn’t Jimin tell him? That would have explained why he didn’t need Jungkook to tutor him.

“I hope he’s having fun,” Jungkook says, nodding. 

“Yeah, he– He wanted to visit his grandparents. They adore him,” Jimin says. “So I’ve been alone and I’ve been thinking and—” 

“And what?”

Jimin’s expression changes in an instant. Guilt floods his eyes. “I am sorry.”

Jungkook’s brows furrow. “What are you saying?”

Jimin takes a step back, turning away, tugging on his hair. “I wasn’t thinking. Well, I wasn’t expecting you to still be here at midnight. The security guards almost arrested me, but I told them I was here to see you and– and then they let me through, so–”

“You’re shaking,” Jungkook says, his gaze sweeping over Jimin’s figure.

“It’s freezing,” Jimin whispers back. “But… you’re warm.”

Jungkook isn’t sure what is happening right now. “You should have called.”

“I… should have, yes. I should have done a lot of things, but I’m a fool.”

“Jimin…” Jungkook furrows his brows, a slight scowl appearing on his face. He wants to touch Jimin, grab him by his shoulders and pull the omega close, but he… shouldn’t.

“I’m ridiculous, aren’t I?” Jimin laughs self-deprecatingly. “The other day at the hospital and then at the event…”

“You’re not ridiculous. Why are you saying that? Why are you here?”

“The dream… It was about you.”

“About me?” Jungkook parrots, eyes going wide.

“Yes.”

Jungkook’s cocky side emerges out of the shadows, making him say, “You dream about me?”

“It was the first time,” Jimin retorts brusquely. “So don’t get your hopes up.”

“Are you sure it was the first time?” Jungkook pushes. 

“Very sure,” Jimin insists. 

“Why? You would have told me otherwise?”

“You would have liked that, huh?” 

“You know I like everything coming from you,” Jungkook says in a deep voice. 

“You’re making this harder for me than it’s supposed to be,” Jimin mutters, looking away with a pout.

Jungkook catches onto that immediately. “Are you pouting right now? You show up in the middle of the night, almost giving me a heart attack, and then pout at me?"

The elevator is too small. Too intimate. Too dark. And Jungkook is going to lose control of his pheromones. 

“I…” Jimin seems nervous now. “I just wanted to apologize. And I…”

“Apologize?” Jungkook repeats, brows furrowing. He didn’t expect that.

“You’ve done way too much for me recently. It’s– I don’t feel good about it. In fact, it still feels like I exploited you. I wasn’t the nicest to you either at the beginning or during our last phone call, so I guess you could say I feel ashamed and–”

“Stop talking,” Jungkook blurts. 

Jimin gapes. “I–”

“Stop saying these ridiculous things. Stop saying you exploited me. It’s not true. I also barely did anything–”

“You literally babysat Juwon and you took me home when I was sick and you picked Juwon up–”

“I did it because I wanted to–”

“I simply cannot keep accepting your selfless generosity when I–”

“Jimin,” Jungkook presses out, taking a step closer to the omega now. The elevator still hasn’t moved, stuck at the lowest level. “Jimin, you’re making me want to say things I’ve been suppressing for the sake of professionalism and because we’re fucking friends or whatever the hell we are, but so the Goddess help me, you’re driving me crazy right now.”

Jimin’s eyelashes flutter. “I’m horrible.”

“No, you’re lovely. You’re lovely and beautiful and intelligent and– and the problem is that fixing your car or picking Juwon up from school is the least I’d do for you. If you let me, I’d buy you a whole new car. I’d buy Juwon all the Lego he wants. I’d get you on my jet so you can see every place in this world you want to see. I’d– I’d spoil you.” Jungkook exhales shakily, realizing he said all the things he shouldn’t. “I’d do all that and more.”

“Fixing my car?” Jimin breathes, apparently having only picked up that from Jungkook’s speech.

“Yeah, I fixed it,” Jungkook says huskily. “Took a late night trip. Ruined one of my suits with motor oil.”

Jimin lets out an exasperated sound. “And you just wanted to let me stay under the impression it magically fixed itself?!”

“I… I tried incredibly hard to not cross any lines. I had to do all kinds of things to get my mind off of you,” Jungkook goes on, despite his rational side yelling at him to shut the fuck up. 

“Like what?” Jimin croaks out.

Jungkook swallows. His throat feels dry. “Like picking up more work. Like trying to see you as a friend only. I kept thinking about you, even when I blasted loud music and watched a show for the first time in years. The songs all reminded me of you and your– your love for music. And the show had this fucking romance too with the main characters. I couldn’t do anything about it; your goddessdamned face just rose to my mind on every occasion.”

“Jungkook, I…” Jimin’s expression softens. He looks pained. Torn, almost.

“What I just said… It doesn’t have to mean anything. I won’t do anything if you don’t want me to.”

“That’s the problem.”

Jungkook’s heart stutters. It never beats at a regular pace in Jimin’s presence. “What is?”

“You make me feel greedy,” Jimin breathes. He shakes his head in disbelief of himself. “I’m used to giving. I’m used to people screwing me over. My ex screwed me over so much, I’m terrified of so many things now. I– I’m used to not asking for things because I can take care of myself. I can spoil myself. I worked my ass off to get where I am. To get money from rich people for planning their obnoxiously rich parties. I feel like an imposter half of the time. Yet, when I’m with you, I…”

Jungkook’s eyes flick over Jimin’s face, catching every small reaction. 

“When I’m with you, I want you,” Jimin whispers, the confession hanging heavy in the air. “When you listen to me and do things for me no one ever did before, and when you fix my damn car for me, watch my son, and take me on fancy dinners, when you carry me to bed… I want you.”

It takes all his willpower to not grab Jimin’s face and kiss him. “What’s stopping you from taking me?”

“You’re a good alpha. Too good for me.”

“I’m a rich, entitled asshole,” Jungkook retorts. “Last week, they probably called me ‘coldest, most unapproachable bachelor’ in the tabloids.”

Jimin lets out a dry chuckle, smile lines appearing around his mouth. “That’s the thing,” he says, “they have no idea what they’re talking about. They would be storming this place if they knew how disturbingly sweet you are.”

“You do know that I’m only like this with you, yeah?”

It’s crucial that Jimin understands how special he is to Jungkook.

“And I’m not deserving of your kindness,” Jimin says sadly. 

“Says who?”

“Says my track record. Why do you think I ended up with someone like Changwon?”

“Jimin, stop saying bullshit. You were young and he was an asshole. An abusive piece of shit.”

“I know, but… When you met me at the charity gala, what did you think of me? Did you– When you gave me a cigarette, weren’t you thinking that I’m the kind of omega that sucks alphas off without knowing anything about them?”

“No, I was thinking that you’re the most magnificent omega that I had ever laid my eyes on.” Jungkook lets out a desperate laugh, still having not completely processed the fact that Jimin showed up here like this. 

Before Jungkook can say more, his thoughts come to an alarming halt as the omega’s hands grab his face stormingly, pulling it down, and says, “Fuck it,” before smashing their lips together.

There are many things Jungkook can take. But getting kissed by Jimin and not reciprocating isn’t one of them.

So he does. He reciprocates with a hungry growl, getting a taste of the omega for the first time since the charity gala. Oh, he’s been yearning for this. He’s been dying for this. 

Jimin stumbles backwards, whining into Jungkook’s mouth. Jungkook presses himself against Jimin, the omega having nowhere to go with the damn elevator wall behind him. Their bodies align perfectly, Jungkook's groin tightening at the touch. 

“Fuck, Jimin,” Jungkook rasps as he pulls off, “you’re driving me crazy.”

“Yeah?” Jimin rasps back, a beautiful flush covering his cheeks. He licks over his wet lips, making Jungkook want to kiss him again. 

“You make me want to rip my heart out and hand it over to you on a silver platter, fuck.”

“That is so–” He lets out a moan as Jungkook attacks his neck, peppering it with kisses and licks, breathing in the omega’s bewitching scent. “That was so deep,” he finally finishes. “You do have a poetic bone in your body.”

“You think that was deep?” Jungkook’s hands wander to Jimin’s ass, one hand on each cheek. “I can go deeper,” he whispers against Jimin’s ear, licking over the shell.

A tremor goes through Jimin, then a whine escapes him.

“I love the way you sound,” Jungkook says, “the way you quiver when I touch you like this. You’re making me want to christen this elevator.”

“You’ve never had sex in an elevator before?” 

“No,” Jungkook chuckles at himself. “I’m fucking boring.”

Jimin’s hands wander down from Jungkook’s chest to his crotch. He grabs a handful. “Do you want me to be your first time, alpha?”

“Fuck, Jimin, you can’t say shit like this.”

“Why not?” Jimin asks, pretending to have a single innocent bone in his body.

Jungkook leans in. “It’s making me want to rip your clothes off and fuck you silly right here and now.”

Jimin shudders, replying by simply nodding. 

“You want that?” Jungkook pushes, mouthing along Jimin’s jaw. “Want me to get you naked and leave my mark all over your perfect body, omega?”

“Y-yes.”

“Yes what?”

“Yes, alpha,” Jimin says airily. 

“That’s my good omega,” Jungkook breathes back, leaving a kiss on Jimin’s neck. “I would hold you right here while exploring your thighs,” he says, hands slipping underneath Jimin’s waist, holding onto it. “And I’d let my hands roam all over your body like this while sucking bruises into them,” he adds, letting his hands wander up Jimin’s torso, a thumb going over Jimin’s hardened nipple. He flicks the bud, watching how Jimin shivers deliciously, mouth agape in a half-moan.

“I’d take my damn time with you, ‘cause that’s what you deserve,” Jungkook continues to coax. “I’d make you mewl and cry and scream my fucking name before my cock ever touches your sweet, dripping hole.”

“Oh Goddess,” Jimin blurts, eyelashes fluttering.

“Are you wet for me, omega? Hm?” Jungkook purrs, letting his groin rub against Jimin’s. 

“Can’t you smell me?” Jimin asks, giving him some attitude. “I’m about to ruin this elevator’s floor. That’s how wet I am.”

Jungkook’s nostrils flare as he breathes in, catching onto the omega’s sweetened scent. He smells Jimin’s slick then, his own body producing pheromones in response to the aphrodisiac that Jimin’s slick portrays.

“I’d love that,” Jungkook grinds out. “I’d turn this into my personal elevator so I can smell the residue of your slick every fucking day.”

“To ensure you’re gonna have a good day at work?”

“Yes, baby, the best fucking day.”

“Fuck.”

“Unfortunately, we need to take this up to my office,” Jungkook murmurs against the shell of Jimin’s ear, continuing to caress Jimin’s body with his palms, feeling every curve, muscle, bone, heartbeat. 

“Why?” Jimin whispers.

“I don’t want security to catch us.”

“Why? Want me all for yourself, alpha?” Jimin challenges, lewdly whispering the words into Jungkook’s ear.

“I knew you had a little exhibitionist streak, Jimin,” Jungkook retorts, laughing faintly, “but yes. I want you all for myself. I’m selfish and greedy, and I want to fuck you like you deserve, love.”

Jimin promptly presses the top floor, muttering, “Kiss me, alpha. Kiss me until we reach your office.”

Jungkook doesn’t have to be told twice. His mouth finds Jimin’s lips right away, sliding his tongue inside, dominating the kiss. He moans at the taste of Jimin, his brain receiving new material to dream and reminisce about after this. 

Jimin melts against him, their bodies aligning like they were made from each other. Jungkook isn’t religious, but maybe he’ll need to pray after this. He’ll have to ask the Goddess for this to never end, for her to bless him with another opportunity to touch Jimin. 

“I dreamed about this,” he confesses, grinding sensually against Jimin. “I dreamed about kissing you, caressing your face…”

“Did you dream about fucking me too?” Jimin smirks, reaching down, grabbing a handful of Jungkook’s cock through the fabric of his slacks again.

“You know I did,” Jungkook says, his breathing becoming erratic with Jimin’s hand lingering on his hardening cock. “You know I fantasized about it and jerked myself off, leaving myself unsatisfied because I knew nothing could compare to the real deal.”

“That strokes my ego.” 

“Yeah? Good, I hoped it would.”

“I am incredible at giving head,” Jimin says, trailing a finger up Jungkook’s body, starting from his cock, dragging it over his abs and chest. He licks his lips, not losing the faint smirk that lingers around them as he reaches Jungkook’s throat, wrapping one hand loosely around it. 

Jungkook shudders against him, a plea sitting in the back of his throat. 

“You did taste good,” Jimin hums, hand still lingering around Jungkook’s throat while the alpha swallows roughly, nearly unable to control himself from surging forward and tearing Jimin’s clothes off here instead of waiting until they are in the safety of his office. 

“I liked the way you ordered me around,” Jimin goes on, grabbing Jungkook’s jaw now, “the way your hips stuttered while you were trying to hold yourself back from fucking my throat.”

Jungkook would like to tell Jimin that he fell in love as Jimin sucked him off, but he isn’t that shallow. Nor can he tell Jimin that now. He’d ruin the mood. Also, it’s a lie; he fell in love the moment Jimin asked him for a cigarette. Perhaps the second he sat down next to him at the bar. 

“And I obediently swallowed your cum, didn’t I?” Jimin murmurs, pulling Jungkook’s face closer again.

Around them, the elevator hums softly, and they’re slowing down, nearly at the top floor. Jungkook almost forgets about it as Jimin kisses him slowly, intently, and with deliberateness. 

Jungkook is the one to intensify the kiss, growling deeply, hands gripping Jimin’s waist possessively. Jimin isn’t close enough. He needs to be closer. So he lifts the omega, hiking one of the omega’s legs up. Jimin understands right away, hiking the other one up too, wrapping them around Jungkook’s middle, making Jungkook lift him off the floor entirely. 

As they kiss wildly, abandoning all withstraint, Jungkook’s hands wander to Jimin’s butt, cupping it through the soft pyjama pants. 

He drowns in Jimin’s scent, in the way he moves in Jungkook’s arms. 

As soon as the elevator reaches the top floor, and the doors open, Jungkook stumbles outside with Jimin, slamming against the closest wall without dropping Jimin. 

Jimin lets out a gasp, drawing Jungkook closer by tightening his legs around him, trapping him for a second.

“How many omegas have you kissed up here?” Jimin questions, his voice fucked-out. 

Jungkook smirks. “You’d like to know, hm?” He squeezes Jimin’s ass, letting one of his fingers slip dangerously close to the wet patch that has formed between Jimin’s cheeks, drenching the fabric. 

“How many? Tell me."

“Are you jealous? Like you were when you saw me with Sooyoung?”

“I was–” Jimin chokes on his words, feeling Jungkook’s finger press through the fabric, almost touching his entrance. 

“Yes, love?”

“I was fuming,” Jimin says breathily, his chest heaving. 

“You were?”

“You– You had been so eager to spend time with me and then– then I saw you with her and I thought how well you two would fit together. It made me jealous, yes.”

Jungkook hums, pleased beyond his own comprehension. Maybe words of gratitude are due after all for Sooyoung. 

His lips graze Jimin’s teasingly, letting the omega chase them. “I think you and I… We’re a better fit.”

“Yeah? Why?”

“Because I’ve never been turned on this much before in my life. No omega before you has ever made me abandon work, much less make me take them into my office like I’m about to do with you.”

“What will you do with me?” 

Jungkook chuckles darkly. “I’m going to make you forget you have ever felt another alpha’s touch on you.”

Jimin shudders. A shadow is cast over his eyes, turning them into caramel. 

“You want that, omega?” Jungkook pushes, hovering mere inches away from Jimin’s lips. 

“Yes,” Jimin admits huskily, “Yes, I want that.”

Jungkook rewards him with a sweet kiss, eliciting a whine from Jimin as their lips move against one another. 

Jungkook uses the moment to move away from the wall, walking blindly through the barely lit hallway, entering the room where Juri’s desk is located. Thankfully, it’s so spacious, Jungkook can stagger from left to right, reciprocate Jimin’s fiery kisses, and not drop the omega, without walking into furniture.

He pushes open the door to his private office, thanking the architect for including a window front big enough to let in natural light. Tonight’s moon is still bright enough to illuminate Jungkook’s office and make the alpha find his way towards his large desk.

With his free hand, Jungkook wipes over his desk, pushing off all kinds of things that stand in the way of him devouring Jimin. Coffee mugs, a stapler, papers, and a vase all land on the office floor, making loud noises that make Jimin flinch in his arms. “Jungkook–”

“Don’t worry about it,” Jungkook rasps, sitting Jimin down on the edge. He grabs his face, pressing another bruising kiss onto the omega’s lips while reaching for the waistband of the omega’s pyjama pants. 

“Will you– Will you fuck me on top of this desk?” Jimin mutters in between kisses, lifting his hips so Jungkook can pull off his pants.

“Maybe, but before that…” He removes himself from Jimin’s lips, having the omega chase after him for a second. He doesn’t take his eyes off the omega’s expression as he goes down on his knees, hands sliding down Jimin’s exposed legs, feeling the softness on them.

On his knees, Jungkook says, no pleads, “Sit on my face.”

“Jungkook,” Jimin rasps, staring at him with wide eyes. 

“I need to take these damn glasses off, fuck,” Jungkook curses, reaching for them with annoyance.

Jimin stops him. “N-no.”

“No, what?”

“Leave them on,” Jimin says shyly. 

Jungkook’s lips break into a smirk. “Leave them on, yeah?” He gets closer to Jimin’s crotch, breathing in the smell of slick through the omega’s wet panties. “You want me to leave them on while I busy myself in your dripping hole?”

“Fuck,” Jimin curses, voice soft.

“Yes or no, omega? I need to hear your voice, love. Tell me what to do. Tell me what you want.”

Jimin breathes in shakily. “Yes, leave them on. Eat me out. Make me– Make me come.”

Jungkook smiles pridefully. “Gladly.” He intends to pay Jimin back for the mind blowing, lifechanging and enlightening blow job he gave him at the charity gala almost six months ago. 

Jimin is wearing black panties, and they’re the sexiest thing Jungkook has ever seen. He establishes eye contact with Jimin as he mouths over Jimin’s hardened cock, the tip sticking out at the top. 

Seeing Jimin bite his lips and throwing his head back might be the most satisfying sight to ever grace Jungkook’s eyes. He runs his hands up Jimin’s thighs, tugging the omega down an inch, making sure he has good access.

“You’re so wet,” he mumbles, “and you smell so fucking good.”

“For you,” Jimin mewls.

“All for me,” Jungkook agrees with an appreciative hum, kissing the inside of Jimin’s thighs softly. Jimin’s skin is silky and warm, giving Jungkook the urge to bite it. Before that, he sucks a bruise into the left thigh, fingertips also digging into the supple flesh. 

He lets go with a pop, admiring his work for a second before moving on to the other side, repeating the same procedure passionately. 

Jimin’s body has to be worshiped. It has to be taken care of the way it deserves and Jungkook intends to do that. 

He’s known for being thorough, for not backing down. 

“Lift those hips for me, love,” he orders, hiking his thumbs underneath the waistband of Jimin’s panties.

Jimin does so, and Jungkook slides them off, scooting back an inch to discard them to the floor. A moment later, he grabs a hold of Jimin’s left leg, pressing a devastatingly soft kiss to the inside of his ankle before hiking it across his shoulder, doing the exact same to the right leg. He scoots closer again, admiring Jimin’s naked lower half in all its glory. 

His nostril’s flare in hunger and he licks over his lips, knowing the feast in front of him is of the most exquisite kind. 

“I can’t believe I’m about to taste you,” he says, shaking his head in utter disbelief. “I’m the luckiest alpha in the world.”

Jimin chuckles, looking down at Jungkook seductively. He runs one hand through Jungkook’s hair, getting it messy. “Will you make me come, alpha? Just with your tongue?”

Jungkook loves a challenge. He reaches around Jimin’s thighs on each side, securing his grip. He rubs his face against them, humming, “I never want to be anywhere else again.”

“You look good down there,” Jimin compliments.

“I’ll go down on my knees for you anytime you want, love,” Jungkook offers generously, slowly moving closer to Jimin’s erect cock. He kisses the tip, making Jimin gasp sharply. “I’d worship you all fucking day long if you’d let me.”

He trails down Jimin’s cock, reaching his dripping hole. Almost grinning from sheer happiness, Jungkook lifts Jimin’s thighs a little, instructing, “Lean back, love."

“O-okay,” Jimin says shakily, some of his confidence gone. 

“Relax,” Jungkook murmurs. “Let me make you feel good.”

He hears Jimin exhale, shifting slightly on the desk. 

Jungkook admires the sight of Jimin spread out in front of him, savoring it for upcoming hard times. “Gorgeous,” he whispers. 

Jimin is only getting wetter the longer Jungkook teases him, making him impatient. Jimin doesn’t tell him he is, but Jungkook can sense it from the way he doesn’t stop shifting an inch here, an inch there, legs tensing before relaxing again. 

He watches a droplet of slick run down Jimin’s thigh, eyes widening in desire. Jungkook can’t help himself; he laps it up, tongue licking over the sensitive skin.

His balls draw together in the confines of his slacks as the taste of Jimin’s slick explodes in his mouth, making his mind foggy. He’s going to get drunk on it and he only had one drop so far. 

“Oh– oh–” Jimin breathes, his thigh quivering slightly.

Jungkook had told himself to go slow, to make Jimin suffer through every second in immense pleasure, but hunger and want take over, and he buries his face in between the omega’s thighs, hoping they close around him and trap him forever. Who needs air anyway?

“Shit,” Jimin curses, sucking in a desperate breath. 

Jungkook spreads Jimin’s ass from beneath, tongue darting out to lick around Jimin’s rim. A spurt of slick pours out of Jimin’s hole right into Jungkook’s mouth. It nearly makes him go feral, humming in approval. The vibrations go straight through Jimin’s body, making the omega shiver and whine.

Jungkook loves the sounds he makes. The high-pitched whines he tries to suppress and the keens. Jimin’s hands fall down, grabbing Jungkook’s hair. He keeps it neat at all times, getting it cut once a month, but it’s long enough for the omega to bury his hands in them, moving Jungkook’s head as he pleases.

Jungkook lets him at first, tongue swirling around Jimin’s entrance enthusiastically, slipping in every now and then. A pleased smirk appears when Jimin moves his hips in tandem with the thrusts of Jungkook’s tongue, chasing his own high.

“Jungkook–” Jimin’s voice cracks.

“Who?” 

“A-alpha,” Jimin corrects, “Oh Goddess, just like that– Please–"

The lower half of Jungkook’s face is covered in sweet, bewitching slick, dripping down onto his white dress shirt. He feels limited in his blazer, and so he shakes it off while his tongue pushes inside Jimin, eyes closed in pleasure. 

“More, please,” Jimin begs from above, hands returning to Jungkook’s hair, pushing his face down.

Jungkook likes being used. Especially by Jimin. He lets his teeth graze along the soft skin of Jimin’s thighs, watching how Jimin erupts in goosebumps. 

One of his fingers finds its way to Jimin’s entrance, teasing around it for a moment while Jungkook pays some attention to Jimin’s cock. “It’s so pretty,” he praises, giving the tip a kiss, noticing the precum that has collected around the head. “Every fucking inch of you is beautiful, love. Most beautiful omega I’ve ever seen.”

Jimin’s eyes are dazed, his eyelashes fluttering. He blushes at Jungkook’s words. “You’re a shitty liar, Jeon Jungkook,” he whispers.

Jungkook rubs his face against the inside of Jimin’s thigh. “Liar? You have no idea how fucking hard I am right now because of you.”

“I’ll believe you if you come in your pants, alpha,” Jimin says. His voice drops when he adds, “with your face buried between my thighs.”

Jungkook’s breath gets stuck somewhere in his throat. Has he ever mentioned that he’s competitive? 

He lets out a rough laugh and wordlessly lowers his face again, kissing Jimin’s hole sloppily. He wraps one arm around Jimin’s thigh, adjusting the omega’s position, manhandling him a little. 

Jimin chuckles lightly. “You’re eager, alpha.”

Jungkook is torn between wanting to receive praise from Jimin and wanting to put him in his place. 

“Do I taste good, alpha?” Jimin’s voice comes out faint, shaking from pleasure.

Jungkook nods, slurping up the wetness oozing from Jimin’s hole. It’s obvious Jimin is trying to rile him up even more, and it’s working. Jungkook presses his thighs together, his cock straining so much, it almost hurts.

“That’s a good alpha,” Jimin rasps. “That’s–”

Jimin chokes on a moan when Jungkook slips a finger into Jimin. It slides in without any difficulty, squelching. Jungkook twists it, breathing against Jimin’s fluttering hole. 

The omega suppresses a high-pitched keen, thighs twitching. 

Jungkook pushes his finger in deeper, brushing over Jimin’s sweet spot.

Jimin’s back arches off the desk. “Holy– Jungkook–”

The alpha adds a second finger alongside the first one, tongue working around Jimin’s wet entrance. 

Jimin’s hips stutter as he grows more desperate. His body tenses, and his walls clench around Jungkook’s fingers as he drags them in and out, slow and then fast, curling them inside, grazing Jimin’s prostate expertly. 

“You gonna come for me, omega?” he asks darkly, listening to Jimin’s erratic breaths.

“Y-yes,” Jimin answers shakily.

“You gonna come all over my face, love? Gonna let me taste more of your exquisite slick?” 

Jimin’s body freezes for a second, every muscle tense.

“Come for me,” Jungkook whispers against his hole, curling his fingers one last time. He feels his own stomach tighten, every drop of blood in his body rushing south. “Let go,” he coaxes softly. 

Suddenly, Jimin’s body deflates as he reaches his climax, slick squirting out of his hole when Jungkook pulls his fingers out, pressing his hand down on Jimin’s lower stomach, right above his twitching his cock. He sucks on his entrance, on Jimin’s balls, taking them into his mouth. 

Jimin writhes on the table, staccato breaths filling the office alongside the sound of Jungkook’s tongue licking up the excess slick. 

The alpha lets Jimin ride it out for a moment, only littering his thighs with tender kisses, humming in contentment. 

The bridge of Jungkook’s nose hurts from the way his glasses were pressed against it while he was eating Jimin out. They’re fogged up when he comes up, greedily licking up the excess slick and cum smeared around his mouth. 

“Fuck, come here, alpha,” Jimin begs, reaching for Jungkook’s face to pull the alpha up to him.

Jungkook’s knees feel bruised from how long he spent on them, but he doesn’t care. He smiles ravishingly, rising slowly. 

Cum is splattered all over Jimin’s abdomen where his shirt rose up. The temptation is too big to ignore, so Jungkook leans down, lapping up every drop available. 

“Oh,” Jimin breathes, his stomach fluttering. 

Once he’s done, Jungkook swallows, wiping one hand over his lips. His cheeks feel hot and his sight through his glasses is kind of blurry. 

You’re so– so–” Jimin cannot finish his sentence because Jungkook kisses Jimin, one hand flying to Jimin’s soft waist, fingers digging into the flesh. 

“Fuck me,” Jimin rasps against Jungkook’s lips, “I want you to fuck me, alpha.”

“Shit,” Jungkook curses at the prospect of burying his cock inside Jimin’s wet hole. 

“I want you to look me in the eyes while you fuck me,” Jimin demands, his voice giving no room for refusal. He fumbles with Jungkook’s belt, his hands impatient. 

Jungkook’s instincts are through the roof, pheromones oozing out of him in steady bursts. His office will smell of sex for the next week. He’s looking forward to it. 

Jimin finally manages to pop open Jungkook’s belt, zipping down his slacks a second after. Jungkook noses along Jimin’s neck and jaw, hastily pulling down his own pants and underwear.

Jimin doesn’t waste time, wrapping a hand around Jungkook’s cock. 

“You actually came?” Jimin says, sounding shocked at the cum that accumulated right around the head of Jungkook’s cock.

“Creamed my pants like a teenager because you’re so fucking hot,” Jungkook grinds out, teeth grazing over the pulsating vein on Jimin’s neck.

Jimin laughs breathily. “That’s hot as hell.”

“I’m going to come again buried inside you,” he promises the omega. 

“Fuck, that’s even hotter,” Jimin croaks out, gulping. 

Jungkook plunges two fingers inside Jimin’s hole. “This hole—it’s mine.”

Jimin bites his lip, spreading his legs a little further. His chest is heaving, heat rising to his face. 

“Say it’s mine,” he says harshly, adding a third finger. It’s loose and ready for him. 

“Yours, it’s yours, alpha” Jimin whines, clenching around Jungkook’s fingers. “Want your cock, please. I need– I need to come again.”

Jungkook takes a hold of his cock, which is heavy in his hand, desperate to release another load. 

“Say that again,” Jungkook commands, wanting to hear it one more time. 

“Please,” Jimin says sweetly, batting his eyelashes. “Please, fuck me.”

That’s all Jungkook needed to hear to finally align his cock with Jimin’s hole and push in.

Their lips almost touch, both of them gasping in pure ecstasy, inhaling sharply as Jungkook slides inside.  

“Oh Goddess, you’re so big,” Jimin cries out.

Jungkook’s eyes almost turn back in his head, that’s how good it feels. How at home he feels. 

“You’re so perfect,” he blurts once he’s buried inside of Jimin to the hilt. 

Jimin clings to him, clawing the fabric of his half-ruined shirt. “M-move,” he mumbles. 

Jungkook pulls out slowly until his cock almost slips out, before slamming back inside, knocking the air out of Jimin’s lungs.

“Like that?” he asks Jimin, a shit-eating grin blooming on his slick-covered face. 

Jimin can’t talk anymore; he can only nod hastily, pulling Jungkook closer. 

Jungkook drags out again, thrusting his hips forward a moment later, enjoying the way Jimin feels around him—tight, slick, hot. 

Jimin’s inability to respond evokes something primal inside of Jungkook. He thrusts in and out, concentrating. He observes every little change on Jimin’s face, notices every twitch and pull of Jimin’s body. 

He internalizes Jimin’s expression, letting it brand itself into his memory. He never wants to forget this. The moon makes Jimin skin look like pearls, like something holy. 

“You’re so good for me,” Jungkook whispers with adoration, grinding his hips, making sure Jimin feels every inch of it. “I could do this all day. Every day. Fuck.”

Jimin clenches around him, drawing out a deep moan from Jungkook.

“Fuck, omega,” Jungkook hisses, his whole body tingling. 

Jimin clenches again, triggering Jungkook’s possessive side that makes him bite the small patch of skin in between Jimin’s neck and shoulder. He doesn’t bite hard, but it’s enough to make Jimin keen, and dig his nails into Jungkook’s skin through his shirt. 

“Alpha–” he breathes heavily.

Jungkook hastens his pace, dipping into the animalistic side of him that recognizes Jimin as the omega he wants. The omega he desires.  

(The omega he loves.)

“I’ve got you,” Jungkook murmurs, soothing the mark he left on Jimin’s shoulder with his tongue, breathing over it afterward, watching Jimin erupt in more goosebumps.

Jungkook’s free hand slides down Jimin’s stomach, fingers brushing against his dripping cock. He wraps his hand around it, stroking in rhythm with his thrusts, wanting to push Jimin over the edge again.

Jimin moves his hips in the same beat, chasing after Jungkook’s lips. 

Jungkook has never felt so intensely during sex, has never felt so connected. Jimin seems to ignite something inside of him, making Jungkook yearn for this to never end. Jungkook knows why; this is the first time he’s having sex with someone he has romantic feelings for that go beyond fantasies and dreams he had in his adolescence. 

“You gonna come for me again, love?” he coaxes, squeezing Jimin’s cock. “Gonna let me fill you up while you make a mess of yourself?”

Jimin nods eagerly, head tipping back in wild abandon.

With fervor, Jungkook attaches himself onto Jimin’s neck, sucking and kissing, licking and biting. 

His thrusts become erratic, control slipping from his grasp. His mind is hazy, a mantra of Jimin’s name repeating endlessly. 

“I’m-” A broken moan breaks out of Jimin and he arches into Jungkook, exhaling as all pressure leaves him and he comes a second time, cum dribbling out of him.

Jungkook’s legs quiver as Jimin’s hole clenches viciously, forcing him to almost stop moving. He is close, muttering pleadingly, “Omega, please, let me–”

“Come inside me,” Jimin demands, looking at him again. His eyes are hooded, and a fresh wave of pheromones pours out of him, going straight to Jungkook’s head—and to his cock.

He feels feral as he fucks into Jimin, all rational thoughts tossed aside, long forgotten. 

“I want your cum, alpha,” Jimin says darkly, his voice raspy, not an ounce of shame or shyness traceable. He has his arms around Jungkook, making sure the alpha isn’t going anywhere before shooting his seed into the omega. 

“Have it,” Jungkook growls, his hips stuttering as he thrusts one last time, cock buried to the hilt in Jimin’s tight heat. 

His release hits him like a bolt of lightning, his lips desperately brushing against Jimin’s as cum shoots out of his cock, filling Jimin up wave after wave. 

“Fuck,” Jungkook groans, “fuck, you feel so good."

His cock twitches inside of Jimin, the omega milking him to the very last drop. 

“Yes,” Jimin sighs, having gotten what he wanted. 

For a moment, they let their foreheads rest against one another, breathing in and out. 

Jungkook’s thumb strokes circles on Jimin’s waist as the aftershocks ripple through both of them, every slow grind of Jungkook’s hips making Jimin release a small whine. His cum is hot inside of Jimin, a little bulge having appeared on the omega’s stomach. Pride and satisfaction swells in Jungkook’s chest.

“You’re unbelievable,” he murmurs, pressing a soft kiss to Jimin’s jaw.

“And you feel so good inside of me,” Jimin teases back, running his fingers through Jungkook’s hair soothingly. “But you need to pull out,” he chuckles gently, “I’m getting overstimulated.”

“I could stay like this forever,” Jungkook hums but still following the request of course. He hisses at the cold air as his cock springs free, glistening in slick. A few drops of his cum flow out of Jimin’s hole right after, keeping Jungkook’s eyes trained on it for a heartbeat too long. “Fuck.”

“You’re insatiable,” Jimin jokes.

“You turned me into a monster.”

“I am innocent,” Jimin claims with a cocky smile.

“No, you are the sole reason why I am insane. Why I just came the hardest I ever did in my entire life. I almost fucking knotted,” he reveals, letting out a huff. 

Jimin stills at that. 

Jungkook promptly returns to reality. He pulls back slightly, just enough to get a good look at Jimin's face. “You okay?” he asks. “Did I–”

“I would have let you knot me.”

“Shit, if you say something so blunt, I’m going to get hard again,” Jungkook hisses, shaking his head incredulously.

Jimin seems to realize what just came over his lips, a red hue appearing all over his face. His lips are swollen and glistening from kissing, his eyes are glassy, reflecting the silver moonlight. And his hair—Goddess, anyone could tell from a mile away he just got fucked.

Jungkook feels smug. “Or was that your intention? Getting me hard again?” 

Finally, Jimin laughs a little. “You’d really fuck me again?”

“I’d do whatever you want.”

“Since when are you so obedient?”

“I’m all yours, omega. At your disposal.”

Jimin giggles, slapping Jungkook’s chest, making him realize he thoroughly marked Jungkook with his slick. “Oh Goddess, your suit…”

“Will smell like you for the rest of my life.”

Slowly, Jimin looks around the office, ignoring what Jungkook just said. “We…”

“I’ll clean it up. Don’t mind it,” Jungkook assures him, nosing along Jimin’s jaw and neck, fighting the urge to scent the omega. 

“I should help.”

“Hm, no.”

“I really should. I– Uhm–”

“Jimin,” Jungkook starts, “Can I scent–”

He doesn’t finish his sentence, his nose catching the sudden shift in Jimin’s sweet, intoxicating scent. A note of distress sneaks into it, making Jungkook’s heart trip.

Something in Jimin’s gaze changes abruptly. Jungkook spots it within a second, his own heart stuttering in his chest. “What is it, omega?” He reaches out a hand, placing it on Jimin’s cheek, analyzing his face. 

Suddenly, Jimin pulls back, outright flinching. “I–”

Jungkook’s throat runs dry. “Are you okay? Is it nausea or som–”

“I need to go,” Jimin says tonelessly, eyes distant. “Oh Goddess.”

“Maybe I can get you some water, wait–”

“No, I mean I have to leave. I– I don’t know what I’m doing here. Oh Goddess, what did I just do?!” 

He stares at Jungkook, completely in shock. Half-naked, he gets up from the desk, slipping past Jungkook. He stumbles, his knees still weak. But he catches himself quickly, bending down to collect his missing clothes, pulling on his ruined panties first.

He’s shaking, Jungkook realizes. He’s literally shaking.

Jungkook grabs Jimin’s wrist then, stopping him from putting on his pants next. He turns the omega to him, looking at him intently. “Talk to me,” he urges. “Let’s talk–”

Jimin tears his hand away. “This– I can’t believe I did this.”

“I know this wasn’t planned. I know it was impulsive and we should discuss it, but–”

“Jungkook,” Jimin cuts in, “I’m sorry. I– I messed up. Why do I keep messing up?”

“No,” Jungkook denies vehemently, a tinge of despair laced through his tone, “you didn’t. Everything’s fine. Or did you– did you not want this?” 

Jungkook’s losing confidence. Did he somehow force Jimin to do this? Did he lose himself in his desire too much to not realize what repercussions this could have? Was he too… passionate? Did he show too much of his soul?

Jimin is shaking his head profusely. “No, I wanted this, but I shouldn’t have.”

“Why not?” Jungkook asks quietly.

“Because I’m– I’m–”

“You’re what, Jimin?”

Jimin averts his gaze. 

“Talk to me, omega,” Jungkook whispers, a lump in his goddessdamn throat. 

“Jungkook,” Jimin whispers brokenly, “I had– I came here to apologize, not to have sex. I came here to– to–”

“To what?”

Jungkook knows what Jimin wanted to say. He can read it in his gaze. 

He should have stopped himself. Should have not kissed Jimin back. Should have told him that they need to think rationally. 

“You can say it,” he tells Jimin, trying to keep an ounce of his dignity. “Don’t be a coward. I can take it, you know.”

Jimin’s lip is wobbling. He shakes his head in disbelief of himself and the situation. “I’m sorry.”

“Come on,” Jungkook scoffs incredulously, brows drawn together, “don’t torture me like this.”

But the omega whirls around and runs out, leaving a confused and heartbroken Jungkook behind.

Chapter Text

Mood board by the amazing @Jiminszephyr

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Jungkook knows he’s a masochist because he loves the way it pulls and strains in his chest when he gets Jimin’s text. At least he’s feeling something. Was he dead for a whole decade of his life? Was he a robot running on borrowed time? 

The text isn’t unexpected. Really, Jungkook knew he would wake up to it when he fell asleep last night, his mind in an endless spiral, his body still smelling like Jimin.

He knew.

He knew, yet it hurts. It slices through him, seeing Jimin’s name pop up on his screen, the notification being the only one on his phone. 

Jungkook swallows down the shards of his heart and opens his phone as he rides the elevator up to the office where he fucked Jimin last night. 

Jimin, 5:12AM

I’m really sorry, but I have to cancel today’s tutoring. Juwon got sick. Hope you understand. You also don’t have to pick him up from Taekwondo this week. Hoseok hyung is doing it. 

Jungkook, 8:12AM

Of course, I understand.

Should he add more? Should he just tell Jimin he wants to talk? That they really should talk? Should he beg Jimin to bring up last night? The fact that he ran out on Jungkook?

In the end, Jungkook leaves it at that. If Jimin wanted to talk, he would. He’s an adult, he knows how to communicate. 

It just kills Jungkook a little that Jimin doesn’t want to communicate with him.

Jungkook is glad he had enough of a mind to air out his office last night, but when he steps inside and breathes in, he can still smell the faint traces of Jimin’s scent, of his slick, of their combined passion. 

He cannot let anyone in here today. 

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

On the way to the venue of the Christmas party two days later, Jungkook is experiencing the worst déjà vu of his life.

Six months ago he was on his way to the charity gala and Juri was also screaming at Dohyun to go faster. Except, this time, she’s yelling, “The CEO can’t show up an hour late to his own party!”

“It’s not my party,” Jungkook says tiredly from the backseat, “it’s the company’s party.”

“And your face is the company’s face.”

“We have a logo.”

“But is the logo a handsome alpha? I think not!” Juri exclaims. 

“Sajang-nim,” a sweet voice says to Jungkook’s left. “Can I show you the edits now?”

Jungkook’s head turns around, remembering Dohyun’s daughter Nara is in the car with them. There’s a plus one rule at the party, and Dohyun chose to bring his teenage daughter. Well, and since he had to pick up Jungkook and Juri anyway, the driver asked if it would be okay if she was there too.

Somehow, the combination of Juri stressing everyone out because they’re late, Dohyun driving like a maniac, Nara pushing her phone screen into Jungkook’s face, some R&B song blasting from it, is putting Jungkook’s nervous system into overdrive. Only Seokjin talking to him on the phone is missing. 

He recognizes his own face on the screen, edited in slow motion. He has no idea where the clip is from. He has no idea what exactly he is watching right now.

“It has 300,000 likes,” Nara says, smiling. “The internet loves you.”

“How many?” Jungkook croaks out.

“There’s one with over a million.”

“Excuse me? ” His voice almost fails him.

“What is she showing you?!” Juri calls out, unbuckling her seatbelt to lean her upper body into the backseat. “The edits?”

“You knew about this?” Jungkook wonders, his body swaying left and right as they take sharp turns. 

“Well, Shelli showed them to me. You know how she is super up to date with all gossip and such.”

“Oppa– I mean, sajang-nim is extremely famous,” Nara says again. 

“I’m not famous,” Jungkook waves off. “Where do they get these videos from? Why are they editing them? Why are they doing that? Juri-ah, we need to have these taken down–”

“Hopeless,” Juri cuts in, extinguishing his hope. “Believe me, I tried.”

“Do you want to see another one?” Nara asks with big eyes, swiping in her gallery to show him the next edited video of himself. This time it’s him on some red carpet, accompanying Seokjin to a movie premiere. 

This evening will be a mess.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

The first Christmas party GAT threw took place seven years ago. Jungkook was Jimin’s age then. Somehow it’s that tiny detail that doesn’t stop swirling around his brain as he arrives at the venue.

Of course he is the last one to arrive. He overhears Juri talking to various people on the phone, checking off her list to make sure everything is going well.

Nara is non-stop giggling as the four of them enter the venue, loud music blasting through the halls. Jungkook doesn’t miss being a teenager. 

Although Jungkook was more involved in the planning process than ever before, he has absolutely no idea what will happen today. Maybe because during every meeting he sat in, he spent his time staring at Jimin. He was too pretty to focus on anything else. 

Jungkook’s only important job today is the opening speech. Which Juri pre-wrote for him of course. 

Dohyun and Nara are sent off first by Juri. The two of them enter the main hall so they can go find their seats and grab some food and drinks already. Meanwhile, as if he’s some celebrity about to hit the stage, Jungkook remains backstage. 

“Five minutes,” Juri informs him, checking her phone for the time. “Then it’s eight on the dot. Perfect timing.”

“Told you we’d make it.”

“I would have taken the wheel myself if Dohyun-ssi had gone any slower."

“I think he was simply following traffic rules.”

“I don’t care about traffic rules. We had to be on time.” She puts emphasis on every word, making sure her point comes across.

Jungkook gives her a languid stare.

She huffs at him. “Stop judging me, sajang-nim.”

“I’m not saying anything.”

“Get your speech out and go over it one more time. Don’t forget to compliment the employees multiple times for their endurance this year.”

“I don’t have the speech with me, what do you mean?” Jungkook blinks.

“I printed it out for you.” Juri stares back, her eyes darkening. 

“Uhm.”

“Oh Goddess, have mercy on me. Did you not read the revised version?!” Now her voice has gone a tad bit shrill. Just a tad. Jungkook is terrified.

He scratches the back of his head. “I… didn’t know there was a revised version. I read and prepared the one you sent me a week ago.”

Juri’s smile is straining. Her eye twitches. “We’re ruined.”

It’s time to reassure her that he can do speeches. He’s done this so many times, he’ll manage just fine. “Juri-ah,” he begins, grabbing her by her shoulders, “stop worrying. You’ll get grey hairs.”

“I already have them.”

“That’s– Look, you have to stop worrying. When have I ever messed up a speech? I always manage fine. The people just want to drink and let loose and fill their bellies with free food.”

She sticks her lips out, not convinced. “Hm.”

“So, I will go up on stage now, talk about how great this company is, how great this year was, how much I love my employees and then I will end the speech with merry-fucking-Christmas.”

“Maybe leave out the cursing,” she advises, giving him a scowl. 

Jungkook gives her a quick kiss on the cheek. “You got it, boss.”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Weirdly enough, Jungkook never really had stage fright.

He was never one of the popular kids at school, never did any sports or had other cool hobbies. He was, like Seokjin likes to tease him with, in the science club. And being among other smart people meant having to prove yourself and your ideas.

Without a responsible and capable parent, Jungkook had to advocate for himself a lot. Talking to all sorts of people became a responsibility, taking care of things was an everyday thing, and so Jungkook found a semblance of comfort in the performative aspect of public speaking. 

He is handed a champagne glass by one of the waiters as he heads up to the podium where a mic is waiting for him and the GAT logo is being projected onto the wall behind him. 

Chatter dies down and all eyes turn to the stage, to their CEO. 

He comes to a halt, tapping the mic with his free hand to see if it’s working. He lingers a second, drawing it out. Then he clears his throat, eyes roaming around the crowd, searching for one person only. While he searches for the only person that matters, he keeps his expression smooth and assured. His usual mask.

“Hello everyone,” Jungkook begins, his tone more cheerful and charming than he feels. “I am pleased to welcome you to this year’s Christmas party for the seventh year in a row! How’s everyone feeling?”

Cheers travel through the venue, people raising their glasses, applauding him. 

“Once again, I thank you all for another incredible year. When I was a teenager it was my dream to change the world. A very ambitious dream, I know, but with you guys, I feel like I achieve this goal everyday. What we do is important. Without any of you, this company wouldn’t work. So, again, I want to express my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you who works tirelessly for GAT. This company strives towards greatness. Towards innovation.”

He lets the crowd let out another wave of applause and verbal agreement.

“I wake up grateful everyday that I can live my dream,” Jungkook says, “and I hope all of you can say the same. Maybe not now, but in the future. I hope that on your journey, GAT can be a stepping stone. That it lifts you up and never lets you down.”

He breathes in, still scanning the crowd for the one face he wants to see.

“Furthermore,” he says, his voice dropping to a calmer tone, “there is someone I want to say something to.”

Jungkook takes another deep breath, his hand shaky around the champagne glass. He should have gulped it down before he started talking. 

His eyes finally find Jimin in the crowd. 

The past three days pass through Jungkook’s head. All the ruminating, dissecting what went wrong, what he should have done differently, thinking that maybe he’s the problem all along. 

He knew Jimin would be here. As the event planner, of course he had to come. Jungkook was so obsessed with the knowledge that this might be his last chance of running into Jimin that he missed Juri’s speech updates. He missed Seokjin and his appointment to take Christmas pictures. He missed hanging out with his sister to help her wrap Christmas presents. 

He stayed in his office, breathing in Jimin. 

Breathing in the memories of a nearly perfect night. 

The omega is frozen in the crowd, his lips slightly parted as he listens to Jungkook’s speech. He’s beautiful, even from far away. He stands out, a lighthouse in the stormy sea. 

The sight of him alone mends Jungkook’s hurt soul.

To Jimin, it hopefully is no secret that Jungkook is speaking directly to him.

“This year ended on a good note for me,” Jungkook continues, chuckling slightly. “I’m actually spending Christmas not working this year.”

The crowd gasps.

“I know,” Jungkook laughs. “There’s someone I have to thank for that. Someone who made me see the light again after I had been stuck in the dark without knowing. Someone who made winter feel like spring. To you, I want to say–” He cuts off, gulping. “I want to say that no matter how long it takes, I will wait. You’re worth it.”

There’s a pregnant silence in the air, his employees giving him confused looks. Jungkook receives a lot of side-eyes and then Juri steps onto the podium, making wild gestures to signal that he has to say something to end the speech.

“Well, with that being said,” Jungkook croaks out, lifting his champagne, “merry fucking Christmas! Let’s celebrate!”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Two hours later, Jungkook wishes he could get drunk.

He could, but he has a reputation. And he kind of really likes his reputation. It wouldn’t be a good look if the CEO is lying drunk underneath a table, unable to talk normally.

After his speech, Juri sighed at him so heavily, Jungkook told her to get drunk. Big mistake. She has been doing shots with every second person they stop to talk to. Drunk Juri means talkative Juri. So at least Jungkook hasn’t had to say much. 

He’s been nursing his one champagne for two hours now. His stomach feels like a pit. If he eats or drinks something, he fears he will get nauseous. 

I want to say that no matter how long it takes, I will wait. You’re worth it.

He said that. He took the chance and publicly… confessed. Or was it really a confession? 

He hasn’t seen Jimin since the speech. Maybe because the omega disappeared. Or maybe he is actively avoiding Jungkook. It’s probably the latter. 

“Juri-ah,” Jungkook mutters under his breath, trying to catch her attention as she’s chatting up the head of the finance department. 

“You like planners?” Juri asks, smiling deeply. 

“I designed one,” Kang retorts, smirking proudly. “Want one?”

“I’m taking a smoking break,” Jungkook tells her tiredly, moving away slowly to see if she even notices.

“You did?” she breathes, completely ignoring Jungkook. 

Jungkook rolls his eyes. Seeing Juri flirt with Kang is kind of pissing him off. Why is everyone happy but him? Why is love so hard? Why can’t things be easy?

By now, everyone is occupied enough that no one catches him slipping out of the main hall. He finds the room where the coats and jackets are being kept, taking his off the rack. He received one all for himself, which makes him feel silly and lonely. Why the hell does he need so much space?

He’s grateful to his past self for making sure to pack the damn cigarettes. What would he do without them?

For someone who claims to not be a smoker, he’s been doing a concerning amount of smoking. 

Jungkook turns right, wondering if he can find the exit to this enormous venue here somewhere. He really needs some nicotine inside himself now. 

“Thank Goddess,” he mumbles to himself, spotting the exit. He feels for the pack of cigs inside his suit, to fish one out prematurely. He puts the end between his lips, trying to find his lighter next.

With his elbow, he pushes the door open, walking outside and–

He stops abruptly, realizing he’s not alone. 

“No way,” he murmurs to himself, trying to hold back an incredulous laugh. It feels like a joke, like the Goddess is playing with him. 

Jimin is standing outside, right next to a bush covered in white. It’s snowing, so he must be freezing in his thin clothes. Why didn’t he take his coat outside? He is breathtaking in his Christmas-red attire, but Jungkook knows he must be cold. 

He hasn’t noticed the alpha yet. It’s better that way. Jungkook is ready to turn around, his heart shrinking together, holding back the words he wants to tell Jimin. He messed up enough today already. Although he’s not one for giving up, he might have to accept that he lost this one. 

Jungkook reaches for the doorknob when he hears Jimin’s voice, sending a jolt of energy through him.

“Did you follow me?” Jimin wonders breathily. 

Awkwardly, Jungkook turns around. Jimin is looking at Jungkook like he’s… afraid? He seems to wipe away something on his face, tears maybe? Is he crying?!

Jungkook mentally curses himself. He shows his cigarette. “No… I wanted to smoke, but I’ll leave. I’m sorry.”

“Why– Why are you sorry?” Jimin sniffles, wiping over his face yet again.

“I didn’t know you were out here. I swear I didn’t follow you.”

“I believe you,” Jimin says faintly. “You’re not a liar.”

“Yeah, uh… I’ll head back,” he says, nodding slowly.

Jimin doesn’t react, so Jungkook takes it as his cue to leave. But he pauses, fighting with himself. “I just– Are you okay? It’s snowing and you’re not wearing a coat. You’re going to catch a cold. That’s– it would be inconvenient before Christmas.”

It pains Jungkook how lost Jimin seems. How he is clearly not okay, and how it is clearly not Jungkook’s place to demand answers. Jimin drew the line. Not very fairly or explicitly, but he did. Jungkook will respect that.

He blinks at Jungkook, a lone tear rolling down his cheek that he tries to hide by wiping it away immediately. 

“Screw this,” Jungkook mutters under his breath, taking off his coat, heading towards Jimin. “Take it,” he says, not accepting a no.

“I–”

“Oh for Goddess’ sake, you’re freezing,” Jungkook says, pained. Without waiting for Jimin’s answer, he drapes the coat over the omega’s shoulders, making sure it doesn’t slip off. “No need to give it back.”

“Jungkook,” Jimin whispers, his face twisted into a canvas of apology, sadness and confusion.

“Yes, love?” Jungkook rasps back.

“Why?”

“Hm?”

“Just– Why?”

“Why what?” Jungkook frowns. He withholds the urge to reach out for Jimin and hug him. The urge for physical contact is impossible to contain. If words fail them, then perhaps their bodies touching each other won’t. Maybe it can convey what Jungkook feels better. Maybe it will make Jungkook understand Jimin too.

Jimin’s expression is clouded by regret. He has never looked more guilty. “Why aren’t you yelling at me?” His lovely voice comes out as barely a whisper.

“Why would I be yelling?”

“I– You should yell at me. Or scream. I don’t–”

“I would never yell at you,” Jungkook says sternly. “Never,” he stresses. He lets the words sit for a moment before adding, more softly, “I am, however, asking if you would spare me a dance.”

“A dance?” Jimin echoes, eyes going wide. “Out here?”

“I don’t want to go back inside.”

“It’s a bit stuffy, isn’t it?”

“Yeah, and awfully many drunk people. Juri is drunk.”

“Juri?!”

“Hm. She’s flirting with people.”

Jimin doesn’t believe him. “You’re joking.”

“I was cast aside. Third-wheeling. So I came out here, trying to get a nicotine boost.”

“You’re addicted,” Jimin notes quietly. 

“I’m only addicted to one thing,” Jungkook retorts just as quietly. To you.

Has he ever talked so softly, so tenderly, so absolutely hazardously intimately with another person before? 

There has to be some significance to this whispering. To the murmurs they exchange. The airy words. There is meaning in quietness. In knowing that the other person is close enough to catch every utterance that escapes your lips. 

“But I bet they are looking for you,” Jimin points out. “Juri and everyone else.”

“They’re looking for the buffet and the bar,” Jungkook says. “Not for me.”

“You don’t notice how people look at you, do you? How everyone's gaze always gravitates towards you? People hang from your lips when you speak.” 

“I do know,” Jungkook corrects, “I know they stare, but I don’t care. They don’t know me.”

“You want to know how I can tell you’re not lying to me?”

“Tell me,” Jungkook says softly, “tell me everything that’s on your mind.”

“You look away and take longer to reply when you are trying to not say something,” Jimin reveals. “It’s endearing.”

“Endearing, yeah?”

“Yeah, but when you’re being sincere you– you look me straight in the eye. Like you’re fearless. Sometimes it makes me jealous. I keep thinking, how can I abandon all these– these worries inside of me. How can I–” He stops all of a sudden, rearing back. “Sorry, nevermind.”

Jungkook breathes in, his lungs expanding painfully. Jimin has not opened up like this to him before. He observes the omega nervously biting on his fingernail, stealing glances at Jungkook. 

“Why are you not saying anything?” he says weakly, blinking at the alpha. “You’re mad, aren’t you? You can tell me. I deserve it. I’m– I am a horrible person for just walking out and leaving you like that–”

“Jimin, will you dance with me?”

Jungkook interrupts him because he doesn’t like seeing Jimin like this. The omega is clearly hurting, and it goes deeper than just having walked out on Jungkook after they had mind-blowing sex. Maybe he walked out because it was mind-blowing. Because it changed something within him he isn’t ready to confront yet.

Jimin’s lips stay parted in surprise upon registering Jungkook’s words. Little snowflakes have covered the top of his head, giving him a serene halo. “You were serious about the dance.”

“Of course. I’m serious about everything I say to you.” He reconsiders, head tilting to the side. “Okay, almost everything, since I like to joke around sometimes.”

It finally elicits a tiny chuckle from Jimin. The corners of his mouth jump up as he shakes his head at Jungkook, his eyes looking less glassy. Less sad. 

“Come on,” Jungkook nudges, holding out a hand, “spare me a dance, hm?”

“I will tell the tabloids,” Jimin threatens, “CEO of GAT has a thing for dancing.”

“You can tell them he also has a thing for cigarettes and for omegas who don’t want to dance with him.”

Jimin groans, finally taking his hand. It’s ice-cold. “I feel blackmailed.”

“You were the one just blackmailing me!”

“I was– Oh!” Jimin yelps when Jungkook pulls him close all of a sudden.

“Put your hand on my shoulder,” Jungkook orders softly.

“Are we about to waltz?”

“Never done it?”

“I mean… No?” 

“Me neither,” Jungkook says, putting his hand on Jimin’s waist. 

“You’re lying. Come on, tell me, how many omegas have you gotten into bed this way?”

“I don’t put this much effort into wooing omegas. Usually a look or a few words are enough.” 

Jimin scoffs incredulously. “You arrogant bastard.”

"Okay, I’ve danced with omegas before,” Jungkook admits. “I have manners. My eomma taught me that much. Although Seokjin will try to take the credit for it if I bring this up in front of him.”

“How did you and he even become friends?” 

“Follow my lead,” Jungkook murmurs as he begins to move their bodies. 

“Okay,” Jimin says, voice as quiet as the night. His eyes sparkle, gaining some warmth back. He follows Jungkook’s lead, their feet moving to the front and back, their bodies swaying. 

“We met in college,” Jungkook says then. “He took me under his wing. We just clicked. I don’t know. I knew Seokjin hyung would become a hit from the very first moment I saw him.”

“He seems like a nice person too. Taehyung tells me all about him.”

“He is, yeah.”

“You only have kind people in your life it seems,” Jimin points out. “Your sister was also very kind although she didn’t need to be. I mean, she was probably extremely stressed because of your eomma.”

“Ha, she’s a demon, don’t let her fool you.”

Jimin chuckles lightly. “You’re only saying that because she’s your sister.”

“Damn right, I am.”

“I don’t have siblings. Would have loved to have some.” His gaze becomes a little dazed and he almost stops moving. “I know Juwon wants to have siblings, but I… I don’t think I can get pregnant again.”

Jungkook doesn’t know what to say. He can’t get pregnant, but he cannot imagine what it must be like for Jimin to He touches Jimin’s cheek, searching his gaze in worry.

“I had too many complications when having Juwon. The stress on my body… I was young but I guess it didn’t matter. The issues continued for seven years…”

“You’ve been through a lot. Don’t stress about this now. You’re young.”

“And you’re old?”

Jungkook looks up, pushing his tongue against his cheek. “Older than you anyway.”

“By seven years only.”

“Only?” Jungkook challenges, his voice getting deeper.

Jimin returns to the topic at hand, clearing his throat. “Whatever. Others have it harder. I should stop whining.”

“You call this whining?” 

Jimin meets his gaze, looking a little confrontational now. “Stop trying to find excuses for me. I’m not worth special treatment.”

“I’m not making up excuses. I’m just saying you should give yourself some grace,” Jungkook says. “I recently realized that life isn’t supposed to be this monotone, repetitive thing. It shouldn’t be stagnant. I did the same thing for almost a decade until–” until I met you. “Until I had my awakening.”

“And how’s that going for you?” 

“Lots of ups and downs. But I kind of enjoy it.” He cracks a smile. “It’s nice to feel so much for once.”

“Oh, yes, emotions, we hate them when they’re there and miss them when they’re gone.”

“Exactly.”

“You’re a good dancer,” Jimin blurts then, cheeks gaining a red hue that isn’t just from the cold. 

Jungkook’s smile becomes disarming. “By now you should know I’m good at everything, love.”

“It’s kinda irritating.” Jimin pouts. 

Jungkook melts internally. But he can’t pass up on the opportunity. “Is it? Thought you enjoyed it when I showed you how good I am at eating you–”

“Okay, don’t say another word,” Jimin stops him, holding up a hand.

Jungkook holds back his laughter. He nods resolutely. “Fine, a gentleman kisses but doesn’t tell.”

Frustration blooms on Jimin’s face. “I keep trying to– I tried to not like you. When I saw you sitting in that huge office, wearing a suit more expensive than my rent, I just– I had hoped you’re a conceited asshole.”

“I thought I was?” Jungkook says with a feigned frown. 

Jimin gives him a tired look, not hopping onto the joke of Jungkook being a stuck-up, unapproachable person. 

“Since you failed at disliking me… That means you naturally ended up liking me,” Jungkook concludes, continuing the teasing.

“Jungkook,” Jimin mutters, voice having gone quiet again.

“I like it when you say my name.”

Jungkook can’t get over the silence. 

Out here, the bass of the music being played inside the venue can barely be heard. It is a dull heartbeat far, far away. Out here, the cold is creeping into his bones because Jimin is wearing his coat, but Jungkook isn’t freezing. In his chest, there is warmth. It’s gooey and thick and it couldn’t be removed even if he tried.

“Jungkook?” Jimin repeats, this time even quieter.

“Hmm. Again. Come on.”

“Now you’re being silly.”

“Humor me, love,” Jungkook pleads. “This one time.”

Jimin's smile is as beautiful as it is cruel. “I shouldn’t. I’ve done enough damage.”

“You can’t damage me.”

“What did I tell you earlier?” Jimin says, brows drawing together in disappointment.

“Repeat it for me, sweet love. I’m old and forgetful."

Jimin only sighs. “You’re being unserious.”

“Only slightly.”

“You’re acting like nothing can hurt you,” Jimin accuses, “but that’s a lie. Everyone can get hurt.”

“I suppose that is true.”

“You forgive too easily,” Jimin states. “Do you not hold grudges?”

“It’s exhausting to hold grudges,” Jungkook says. 

As they waltz slowly, Jungkook’s heart grows heavy. Grows a little desperate. He has the urge to explain himself and to find out what he can do to ease Jimin’s heart and make the omega trust him fully.

Jungkook knows he isn’t an easy person to love. He comes with baggage he wasn’t even aware of until a few months ago. He works too much, and maybe he will even work himself to death. 

He’s never been in love. Not until Jimin swept him off his feet and shackled his heart. Now Jungkook’s greed for success is revealing itself to be an intrinsic need for love. 

It feels like betraying his family, the people in his life who do love him, who cherish him, because why is their love not enough? Why does he feel greedy to be loved by Jimin? To be suffocated by it?

There’s nothing rational about love, yet it feels like the most rational thing to Jungkook at that moment. He doesn’t understand how he went without it for so long. And he can’t imagine, cannot possibly fathom, how good it could feel to have his love be reciprocated.

If loving Jimin on his own, loving him loudly, quietly, tenaciously, and loving him with abandon feels this good, then how would reciprocation feel? 

What would it be like to have a place for his love to go?

“Can we talk?” he asks against Jimin’s ear, the smell of cherries intensifying.

“Aren’t we talking now?” Jimin says, a teasing edge to his voice.  

“No, I– Can we meet up and talk? Somewhere where I’m not technically bound by HR guidelines.”

“I owe you that much, don’t I?” Jimin whispers, brows drawn together. He seems to inspect Jungkook, an indescribable depth spreading through his eyes. “Despite my running away, you still want to talk to me?”

“You can’t scare me off that easily, omega.”

His gaze shifts. As if he just let his guard down. As if he is thinking about letting Jungkook in.  “I– You surprise me, Jeon Jungkook.”

“I know,” Jungkook says softly, unable to hide his smirk. 

“When do you want to talk?” Jimin questions, his hand unclenching the fabric of Jungkook’s suit jacket. 

They stop dancing. Stop moving. 

“Are you free tomorrow by any chance?” Jungkook inquires, eyes flickering over the expanse of Jimin’s face, following the way a snowflake lands on his collarbones. 

“Tomor– Yeah, I guess. I would have to bring Juwon though. He is coming back tomorrow morning from his grandparents’ place. Don’t think I can get a babysitter this quickly because I don’t want to annoy Taehyung or Hoseok this close to Christmas. They’re busy with… with stuff, you know.”

“Bring him,” Jungkook says without hesitation, “I’m always delighted to see my favorite pup.”

“You mean that, don’t you?” Jimin whispers carefully, his eyes shiny.

“With every fiber of my being.” Then he adds, chuckling, “Although Juwon pointed out that I only know one pup, hence it’s only logical he’s my favorite.”

“He’s so smart,” Jimin says with adoration. “How is he so smart?”

“You made that happen.”

“I did, didn’t I?”

“Yes, love. He’s blossoming because you are raising him beautifully. I’m no expert, but you can tell when a pup is loved. And Juwon is loved. He is kind and intelligent and will grow into an amazing person.”

Jimin breathes in deeply. “Could you not?”

“Not what?”

“Make me cry again.”

“Are you crying? Also, again? I made you cry? Why?” 

Jimin sniffles, lifting a hand from Jungkook’s shoulder to wipe at his eyes. “N-no.”

“Now, love, that sounded like a lie.”

“I’m not crying,” Jimin insists.

“There’s visual evidence right in front of me.”

“It’s the cold air out here.”

“Fine, I’ll take that. But I don’t want you to cry over me. Ever.”

Jimin lets out a laugh. “Too late. I shed some tears because of you. And I don’t cry easily, you know.”

Jungkook doesn’t like that. “I should be taking responsibility then for every tear you shed for me.”

“I should collect them and give them to you,” Jimin says jokingly. 

“Do your tears possess magical qualities?”

“Perhaps,” Jimin replies airily, “wait and find out.”

Jungkook chuckles. “You did a beautiful job with the party, by the way. I wanted to tell you. Everything is perfect . You’re p erfect.”

“Will look good on my resume,” Jimin agrees. “Event planner for GAT.”

“Did you get paid already?”

“You are really obsessed with pushing money down my throat, huh?” 

“It’s all I have. Endless amounts of money.”

Jimin’s expression turns somber. “You know that’s not ture.”

“Fine, I also have the ability to fold clothes perfectly.”

“Jungkook,” Jimin begins, changing the topic all of a sudden, “did you– What you said in your speech, did you mean it?”

Caught off guard by the blunt question, Jungkook’s breath gets caught in his throat. He tries to stay calm, but he can never be calm about Jimin. 

“Every word,” he brings out huskily. 

“Oh,” Jimin says, nodding. Another tear drops. 

“I came on too strong, didn’t I?”

“No matter what happens,” Jimin gulps, “I hope you know that you were the first alpha who showed me kindness like this and made me feel like I’m worth something.”

Jungkook’s chest tightens unbearably. The words feel like a compliment, yet also like a goodbye. 

“Tomorrow,” Jimin reinforces, “tomorrow, I’ll explain.”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

19.12.2024, 23:48PM posted by @Tehee23yolo in r/JeonJungkook

I’m back fellow JJK enthusiasts! And I’m coming in HOT with brand new info on Korea’s sexiest CEO (pic attached hehe, cuz he looked foine as fuck again tonight!)

So let’s get into it… but before that, you guys, I’m a little drrunk rn and posting from a bathroom stall at my company’s christmas party, but I have SHOCKING NEWS. S h o c k i n g !!!!

To put it briefly, Jeon Jungkook just lowkey publicly confessed to someone??? at least I’m pretty sur he did? And the confession was also directed at someone at the party (Park Jimin, I wonder??). Anyway you guys have no idea how flabbergasted the entire venue was. He just stands there, champagne glass in hand, tailored-suit clinging to his sculpted body and goes “I’ll wait for you” HELPPPP? the goddess sent him as an apology for all the other knotheads that roam this realm. 

Either way, I need to get my crush under control!! this alpha is obviously down bad for a certain someone * cough cough * Park Jimin, you lucky omega, ugh! Then again, he’s drop dead gorgeous and in my head they’re already canon although by the look of it there’s some sort of issue still between them, sigh!!! Just mate already and make a ton of beautiful pups together!! AHHHH!

Okay, logging off to get black-out drunk and then spend ths FAT christmas bonus we received

#bestCEOever

#jikookendgame

#jikookplsgetmated

#andplsinvitemetotheceremony

#icanbeaflowergirl

64390 likes    12300 shares    8001 comments

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@lenbarries: my queen thank u for this update

@Daydreamerin: He’s playing with JJK. He doesn’t deserve him. Creep.

@jiminielips: HE’S SUCH A FUCKING DREAM

@nickinicole04: now talk about love confessions, damn. that alpha really stood on a stage and proclaimed his love loudly and proudly, who’s doing it like him?!

@lovelovesjm: I need a love like theirs….

@gailfrancoco: they changed the way I think of love. JJK is so patient and tender in the way he’s pursuing Jimin, goddess it’s killing me

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

When Jimin was seventeen, he dreamed about finding love. The kind of love his parents had for one another. The one where you treat each other with tenderness and adoration and never wish to be apart even for a single day.

When he met Changwon, he thought he had found that kind of love. The revolutionary, long-lasting and inspiring kind. As a college freshman, still a little naive, and hungry for love, Jimin didn’t question a single thing at the beginning. He had never felt so in love, so nauseous around someone. Well, he thought it was butterflies.

Years later, Jimin knows it wasn’t.

Butterflies is what he feels with someone else.

Someone Jimin hurt because of his own insecurities and fears.

Jimin clearly remembers the day of the charity gala. The way his belly did a swoop when Jungkook unexpectedly sat down at the bar next to him and they chatted. There was chemistry right away, an easiness that only intensified with every word and look they exchanged. He was a stranger—a handsome and charming stranger. Jimin never stood a chance.

It was pure impulsivity to go down on his knees and suck the alpha off, but Jimin never regretted it. Not in the months where he thought he would never see Jungkook again. The alpha was supposed to remain a guilty pleasure in his memories, a dream Jimin could revisit every now and then. 

But then he walked inside the alpha’s office at the GAT headquarters and his heart dropped to his stomach. 

It felt like a bad, tasteless joke to see the alpha from the charity gala who Jimin fantasized and idealized for a few months on end standing in a large, light-flooded office, wearing a dark suit, looking like a dream. 

Jungkook turning out to be the most considerate, thoughtful and gentle alpha was simply too good to be true. It wasn’t easy to comprehend. Not with Jimin’s relationship issues.

After Juwon was born, Jimin suspects he had postpartum depression. He never had it diagnosed, but in hindsight it seems pretty clear. What happened with Changwon left him in shambles. Not just because the alpha treated him like shit, but because Jimin let it happen to himself.

Especially the health complications that followed made Jimin unable to forget Changwon. His omega was so stressed and unbalanced, Jimin’s hormones went crazy, his heats stopped and never came back, and he felt like he lost a part of him he couldn’t talk to anyone about. He was told he could never get pregnant again. That his body had been under so much stress, it was highly unlikely. 

He knows he’s not at fault, but the thought that he could have lived a different life kills him. The idea that it could have been prevented if he had left early enough. 

It also makes him feel ashamed to think this way. If he had left, Juwon wouldn’t exist. And Juwon is the best thing that ever happened to him. The pup makes Jimin remember that something good can come out of darkness. With Juwon, Jimin felt less lonely. 

Raising him was hard—still is hard. There is no one he can make decisions with, no one he can consult when things become rocky. He has his friends and his parents, but it’s not the same as having a partner, a second parent for Juwon who is just as responsible as Jimin is. 

A few times, Jimin let himself imagine what it would be like if he just… gave in. If he agreed to fall into the abyss with no guarantee of there being a bottom.

He realized quickly that Jungkook was attracted to him. Jimin knows he’s conventionally pretty, maybe even a little beautiful. Changwon always told him he hated others looking at Jimin, perceiving him. He hated the idea of showing Jimin off. He hated admitting Jimin was pretty. Hated Jimin for existing.

Eventually Jimin hated himself too. The self-hatred and abnegation stayed even after he kicked Changwon out and found his way back to life. 

A little spark of doubts survived, and they all came out at once the bolder Jungkook became in expressing his interest.

There is the undeniable fact that he seems to be the cure to Jimin’s health problems; because of him the fainting stopped, the random dizziness, the nausea, the pains in his belly… 

Jungkook, just by existing, helped Jimin’s omega to regulate. Or so Jimin’s doctor insinuated when Jimin showed up and his hormone levels were suddenly better. 

Not only did he give Jimin his health back, he was also a gentleman. He made Jimin feel desired beyond his body and his face. He made Jimin feel more than just responsibility and the urge to succeed and provide a good future for Juwon. 

He made Jimin greedy.

With the greediness for Jungkook’s kindness, for the way he made Jimin laugh, and the way he wrapped the omega around his finger, came the guilt and the doubts. They invaded Jimin like spiders, and they laid their eggs, which hatched all at once. 

Everytime Jungkook subtly let Jimin know that he is interested, that he has feelings for him, and every damn time he called Jimin “love”, Jimin died a little inside. 

He’s never been loved right. He’s never experienced patience like this. Not from an alpha like Jungkook. Someone who has options, who doesn’t have to look far to find people ready to risk everything for him. 

It felt too good to be true. As if Jimin was getting scammed. He felt that if he gave in, he would not last long. He would bore Jungkook, would become too difficult, a “handful” like Changwon used to say. 

It’s not really Jungkook’s fault. The alpha did nothing wrong. He did everything right, in fact. 

For a moment, Jimin didn’t think it was enough. He felt horrible for all the times the alpha did something for him, only for Jimin to not give the same energy back. He warned Jungkook; told him that he’d break his heart.

But now Jimin thinks he only broke his own heart.

The moment he realized what he’d done after they had sex in the alpha’s office, it all came crashing down on him. The commitment he didn’t feel ready to make, the big feelings swelling in his chest, more intense than he ever felt for Changwon. Jimin felt helpless. He felt exposed. And he didn’t want to be at another alpha’s mercy, terrified of getting hurt again. 

Because life isn’t something you can control. It’s not something that becomes easier the older you get. Jimin was under the impression that he’d have this moment of enlightenment at some point and that he would have everything figured out down to the smallest detail, but being an adult, and being a parent on top of that, it humbled him. It brought him down to earth. He has a never-ending list of worries, starting with what if something happens to Juwon and ending with what if I never find love again. 

Standing half-naked in that office, when he had originally planned to only apologize to Jungkook, felt like a slap in the face. Jimin had lost all control; it slipped through his fingers like sand, and the worst part was that he didn’t feel bad about it. 

He liked it. Liked the feeling of letting the alpha touch him, caress him and whisper sweet nothings into his ear.

But did he deserve to be treated this way?

Do you deserve it, Jimin? You, really?

Those treacherous thoughts haunted him, making him lose sleep. He was nauseous all the days leading up to the Christmas party, knowing he’d inevitably meet Jungkook there. And he was sure Jungkook would be furious, would feel betrayed.

Instead, Jungkook surprised him once again. He changed Jimin’s perception of the world by being forgiving and patient with him. 

Jimin caught a glimpse of the future when they danced together and joked around. He was  at peace when Jungkook wiped his tears and painted a smile on his lips.

He wants to chase that feeling. He wants to make it real. 

So today, he got Juwon dressed and told him they have to meet Jungkook hyung. 

Of course, Juwon is head over heels. He adores the alpha. He has from the very first moment on, ever since Jungkook bought him pizza and put Go Pack on for him. 

Jimin is choosing to be brave. For himself and for Juwon. 

He will have to talk to Juwon about what could change for them if today’s conversation goes well. How Jungkook could become more than just Juwon’s tutor. How Jungkook could take up a bigger part in their lives. 

On the way to the park they agreed to meet in, Jimin is so nervous he can barely keep up with Juwon’s endless excited chatter about seeing Jungkook again.

“Appa, can we watch a movie at our place with Jungkook hyung later?”

“Appa, can we have pizza? I want to make pizza with Jungkook hyung!”

“Appa, I forgot my dragon that I wanted to show Jungkook hyung! We need to go back and get it!”

Jimin is getting a headache on top of feeling short of breath. He’s thankful it’s cold outside. The crisp air will soothe him. 

Why is he so anxious? Jungkook has never given him a reason to be. He’s always taken away Jimin’s worries. It feels unreal, but the alpha changed Jimin’s perception. In his steadfast, gentle and patient way, he’s made Jimin believe in second chances. 

Could life possibly be this kind to Jimin?

Jimin pulls up to the park, blood rushing through his ears. 

“Hey, hey, Juwon, watch out for cars!” Jimin snaps when the pup just jumps out of the car without any regard for the traffic. 

“Appa, let’s go! Let’s see Jungkook hyung!” Juwon cheers, grinning from ear to ear. 

Jimin nods, “Yes, we are about to. Goddess, you’re impatient.”

He locks his car, gulping down the guilt and debt. Jungkook, that selfless idiot, really repaired his car. Jimin isn’t sure about the logistics, but Jungkook did it. And the alpha sure as hell wouldn’t have brought it up either if not by accident. 

Jimin takes a deep breath, preparing himself for the confrontation. He knows he has to do the talking today. 

He will. He has the words sitting ready on his tongue, a culmination of months where he held back, terrified it would all end up being a bad dream.

His knees feel weak as they enter the empty park. This late in the year, no one is coming out to play. It will probably snow again later, so the sky is white already, a foreboding messenger.

Jimin spots Jungkook standing next to a lantern, smoking lazily while looking into the distance. He hasn’t seen Jimin and Juwon yet, so Jimin gets to observe him in his natural habitat for a second, marveling over Jungkook’s nonchalance. 

In his dark coat which descends over his back, stopping at his knees, and the dark suit beneath it, paired with the slicked back hair and the cigarette in his hand, he looks like the most unapproachable alpha you could imagine. 

Jimin never thought so. Even at the gala, he saw the soft glimmer in Jungkook’s eyes. He saw beneath the alpha’s curated appearance and cracked through it, having no trouble seeing the kindness that Jungkook keeps sheltered from the public. To be subjected to it so frequently made Jimin imagine it to be an aura surrounding the alpha, a cloud of goodness.

Jimin desperately wants to remain in that cloud. 

It only took him way too long to realize that.

Juwon runs ahead, screaming loudly, “Jungkook hyung!”

The very second Jungkook hears Juwon, he whips his head around, a bright smile appearing on his face. He quickly extinguishes his cigarette, hiding the butt in his palm from Juwon. It makes Jimin huff a laugh. 

“Come here, little one,” Jungkook exclaims, holding his arms open for the approaching pup. 

Jimin’s heart twists as Jungkook twirls Juwon around and the pup giggles loudly, the sound echoing through the empty park. It’s heaven. 

“How was it at your grandparents’ house?” Jungkook asks as he lets Juwon down, fixing his jackets which rose up. 

Of course Jungkook remembered that Juwon went to see them. He doesn’t forget any details. It’s one of the most impressive things about him. How can he store all that information when he has an entire company to run?

“It was so cool! Grandma and I made cookies!” Juwon says excitedly. “And then we went ice skating and grandpa fell on his butt!”

Jungkook grimaces. “Oh damn, is he okay?”

“Juwon-ah, why didn’t grandpa tell me?” Jimin demands, frowning a little. He hadn’t heard about this until now.

“Grandpa was fine.” Juwon shrugs, turning to Jungkook again. “Can we build a snowman, hyung?”

Jungkook makes eye contact with Jimin for the first time. His eyes are so deep, Jimin doesn’t want to look away. 

Jungkook always waits for Jimin’s approval when it’s in regard to Juwon, since the omega is the parent. He respects Jimin’s parental skills. He never looked down on Jimin for being a single parent. Goddess, he never made Jimin feel ashamed for it. He never–

“I think your appa and I have something to discuss first,” Jungkook says softly. “Uhm, how about you begin collecting snow and I’ll join you in a second, hm?”

Juwon sticks his lips out. “But why can’t you talk to appa later?”

“Juwon-ah,” Jimin says sternly, “go and collect some snow.”

“But appa–”

“Adults have to talk sometimes. And sometimes it can’t be pushed back,” Jimin reminds him, his tone softer now. “You know this, don’t you?”

Juwon rolls his eyes and stomps his foot. “Okay. Whatever.”

He runs off, leaving Jimin to sigh heavily. “Sorry for that. He– With Christmas being so close, he’s just really excited.”

Jungkook is smiling tenderly. “Don’t worry about it.”

“I–” Jimin is anxious again. “I always worry.”

“He’s your pup, so of course you worry.”

“No, I mean–” I worry about everything. About fucking up this moment. This one chance to make things right.

“Yes?”

“H-how are you?” Jimin stammers out, trying his best to steer the conversation into a different direction.

“Better now that you’re here. I get to see you two days in a row.” His eyes sweep over Jimin’s figure, giving the omega a shiver. “You look beautiful.”

“Nonsense,” Jimin whispers shyly. 

“I would never lie about that.”

Jimin did put in more effort. He made sure his hair looks good and that his clothes are ironed. He decided not to apply scent blockers either, hoping his body complies enough today to not make him faint.

“O-okay,” Jimin breathes, nodding.

Jungkook grabs his hand. “You should wear gloves. It’s way too cold.”

“Your hands are so warm,” Jimin blurts, stunned. 

“Want me to warm your hands up?” The flirty tone cannot be missed. 

Jimin shakes his head. Jungkook really knows how to make him flustered. “No, we– I should start talking. Explaining myself.”

Jungkook grabs Jimin’s other hand and encloses both of them inside his palms, warming them up. Jimin’s hands disappear completely, and warmth floods the omega. “We have time.”

“But you probably have questions,” Jimin points out, desperate to convey to Jungkook that this is a life or death matter for him.

“Sure,” the alpha retorts calmly, “but I can ask them later.”

“Aren’t you– Don’t you want to know why I’ve been so fickle and kept pushing you away?!” 

“Love, you’re freaking out,” Jungkook says softly, raising Jimin’s hands, which are locked inside Jungkook’s, to his cheek. Jimin’s hands aren’t touching it, but it gives the impression. It makes Jimin’s breath stay away anyway.

“I’m not,” Jimin croaks out.

“Okay, then tell me one thing,” Jungkook says, “start with one thing.”

“One thing,” Jimin repeats. 

“Hmm, one thing.”

“The day– the day in the elevator. I did faint.”

Jungkook cracks a toothy smile. “I knew it.” He looks up to the sky in victory. “Moon Goddess, you hear that? My love is finally admitting the obvious!”

My love–

Jimin still remembers the first time Jungkook called him ‘love’.

What more proof do you need, love?

Jimin’s never been called anything other than baby. Or bitch, if Changwon got mad. Not even flings or other one night stands made the effort.

Meanwhile for Jungkook it simply seemed to slip out. It became a habit. A pet name.

“Because of my hormone imbalance, I– I fainted a lot in the past few years. It sometimes spikes up. Sometimes it is just at bay, but not gone. But then you came into my life and–”

Jimin is interrupted by Juwon yelling, “Appa!”

He turns around, worried Juwon may have gotten himself hurt. 

Instead, there’s a female alpha staring at him, her hand already raised.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Jungkook’s heart drops to his stomach as the alpha throws herself at Jimin, slapping him in the face. He can’t even react quick enough. One second Jungkook is talking to Jimin, the next someone is forcing themselves between them. 

The slap echoes and Jimin lets out a surprised gasp. 

Jungkook jumps forward on instinct, realizing there’s blood on the omega’s face. She made Jimin bleed.

“YOU WITCH!” the strange alpha screams hysterically, ready to hit Jimin a second time. “YOU NASTY WITCH!”

Juwon’s frantic scream comes again. “Appa!”

“HE’S MINE!”

Jungkook catches her arm before she can slap Jimin again. He’s panting, seeing red only. He takes a protective stance before Jimin, checking quickly that Juwon is far away enough to not be in this crazy alpha’s vicinity. “What the fuck do you think you’re doing assaulting a stranger?” 

“APPA!” comes Juwon’s shrill yell. 

The pup comes running towards them, but Jungkook holds out a hand.

“Stay over there, Juwon-ah,” Jungkook says breathlessly. “Stay where I can see you, but don’t come here.”

The pup looks so confused, he freezes, his big eyes glassy. Jungkook has never seen Juwon look afraid. The sight hurts more than anything else. 

For a moment, Jungkook thinks it’s just a misunderstanding. A horrible mistake. But the words leaving the alpha’s mouth make his stomach sink. 

“He doesn’t deserve you, oppa. You should court me, not Jimin.”

Jngkook’s face falls. “Wh-what?”

“You’re mine,” she hisses, trying to jump forward at Jungkook. 

He stops her, saying callously, “Not a fucking step.”

Her eyes– they terrify Jungkook. They look right through him, two huge black pools of nothing. 

She looks normal. Put together. But the eyes…

“Jimin, love, call the police,” Jungkook presses out now, not taking his eyes off the crazy alpha. “Call them now.”

“O-okay, I’m on it,” Jimin’s voice comes from behind him, shaky.

This can’t be happening. It can’t be fucking happening. 

Today was perfect. 

“Stop twisting my arm,” the alpha cries. “I love you!"

“You’re sick,” Jungkook says, making sure she is restrained. He doesn’t even want to touch her, but he sure as hell won’t let her come any closer. 

“All these months, I’ve been writing to you,” she laments, trying to touch his face now. 

Jungkook dodges her, disgust swelling inside of him. 

“But you’ve been ignoring me!”

“I don’t know who you are!” he shouts. “And you just– you just hit the omega I–” the omega I love.

“You belong to me. The whole world will know! The witches online will stop calling me crazy as soon as they see the pictures of us together!”

“Jungkook,” Jimin says, tapping his shoulder urgently. “Over there–”

Jungkook sees the lone paparazzi escaping through the bushes, almost tripping over his own feet. 

“You’re going to jail,” he spits at the alpha. “Both of you.”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

The nightmare doesn’t stop.

Jungkook has lived through some really bad ones, but this makes him lose his mind in ways he didn’t think were possible. 

The police come and Jimin doesn’t stop bleeding from the cut he received. Juwon doesn’t stop crying, and Jungkook cannot get the alpha’s deranged eyes out of his mind. 

Everything spins. 

Jimin and Juwon are transported to the nearest hospital because Jimin’s wound has to get stitches. 

Everything twists and turns. 

The police try to hold Jungkook at the scene for questioning, but Jungkook slaps them his business card and tells them to call his lawyer.  

“You have the perpetrator. I need to go to the fucking hospital and check on the omega that was hurt,” Jungkook exclaims desperately. “Do you understand that?”

“Yes, but you need to answer a few questions before you go–” the cop begins.

“Oh for fuck’s sake.” Jungkook throws his hands up and whirls around, running towards his car. 

The cops shout after him, but Jungkook ignores them. His mind is all over the place, turning on an axis. 

He calls Juri first, the call connecting to his car.

“Yes? Will you come in today after all?” she wonders with a humorous tone. He had taken the day off. For Jimin. So they could talk. He had– He wanted it to be perfect. He wanted to be there, to be available, to give the omega all the time he needed.

“You have to head to the hospital. And call all the fucking reporters you know.”

“Oh my goddess,” Juri breathes, terrified. “Is it– is your mother–"

“My mother is fine. Some crazy bitch just gave Jimin a cut ‘cause she slapped him. She is apparently a stalker or something. Claimed to be in love with me. Check our fucking mail. Or– Or make someone check the mail for suspicious letters.”

Juri is silent for a moment.

“Juri?!” Jungkook snaps, heel digging into the accelerator. 

“I can’t tell if you’re joking or if this actually happened,” Juri whispers.

“I’m not fucking joking. I’m on my way to the hospital right now. I’m– This day was perfect. Fuck, it was perfect, Juri.”

“Okay, sajang-nim, I’m on it. I’ll call everyone. I’ll– Is Jimin okay? Are you okay?”

“I’m okay, but Jimin is clearly not. He got hurt because of–” of me. 

The realization hits suddenly, making Jungkook nauseous. 

“This alpha who attacked him– She seemed obsessed with– with me? I don’t know. I had never seen her before. I didn’t know her.”

“Do you want me to look into it separately from the police?” Juri’s voice comes out hoarse. “I will call Yoongi-ssi. We will sue.”

“We better.”

“But, seriously, are you okay?”

“Juri, just– I will talk to you later.” He will be at the hospital in a minute. “Also, don’t you call my mother.”

“Wouldn’t dream of it,” Juri whispers.

“Okay,” Jungkook breathes, “gotta go. Almost at the–”

As soon as he drives around the corner, he chokes on his breath.

The path to the hospital is blocked. 

The reason why becomes obvious to Jungkook immediately. 

“Sajang-nim?!” Juri is yelling on the other line. “What happened?!”

Jungkook should have known this could happen. He’s not famous, but he is a public figure and recently he’s been appearing in public more often. The media is interested. And apparently the fucking paparazzi who was hiding at the park called his friends.

They’re waiting for him. 

And as soon as they recognize his car, they get their cameras, ready to snap pictures.

Jungkook looks over his shoulder, checking the street. 

He’s fucked. 

“Juri,” he says tonelessly, “call the police to the hospital. I am about to get ambushed by reporters. I think the stalker will be the tabloid’s headline tomorrow. We had a fucking leak or something. Maybe someone wrote an article. Maybe– Maybe because I appeared at the launch event they’re onto me, but it’s a nightmare, Juri. It’s– I can’t breathe.”

“Moon Goddess have mercy, they followed you?!” 

“I don’t know, but there’s a whole lot of them and I doubt they’ll let me through. I have to turn around and drive back. I can’t get to the hospital. No one can. This is– They’re risking the lives of people by blocking this fucking road.” 

With screeching tires, Jungkook illegally turns around, crossing the street to get into the other lane. He gets honked at by cars behind him. 

In the distance, police sirens can be heard. Good , he thinks. They need to get rid of these fucking reporters in their stupid white vans.

“Get out of the car!” Juri shouts. “This is like that one time you were stuck in the car with Seokjin oppa after he had that one dating scandal. It was a fucking nightmare. I thought you were gonna die in a car crash and–”

“Juri, I am terribly sorry, but I have to hang up. I need to call Jimin. He’s still at this stupid fucking hospital.”

Well, providing the paparazzi weren’t already waiting for him and Juwon here. 

“Yes, of course, uhm– Please be careful, please don’t crash, please call me back,” she lists off. 

Poor girl, she’s always stressed because of him. He doesn’t deserve her. 

“Always,” Jungkook promises, speeding down the street so fast he’s going to get a ticket. “Can’t die because then you’d be out of a job.”

“I really don’t want to work for anyone other than you, sajang-nim,” Juri presses out, trying to hide her muffled sobs.

“I know. I won’t let you. See you later, yeah? Call Yoongi hyung for me.”

“Done,” she whispers, hanging up.

Without waiting a single second, Jungkook presses Jimin’s name in his contacts, waiting for the call to connect. 

He keeps looking over his shoulder, wondering if he’s being followed. How does Seokjin live like this? How does he endure the anxiety?

“Jungkook?”

Hearing Jimin’s voice reduces some of Jungkook’s panic. 

“Jimin,” Jungkook says breathlessly, relieved to have finally gotten a hold of him. “Where are you? I can’t get through to the hospital, there are reporters blocking the roads. Please tell me you’re okay–”

“We went home.”

“You– oh.” Jungkook slows down as soon as he registers what Jimin said. 

“There were– There were paparazzi. So many reporters and they were asking if I knew you and– Juwon got a little scared, especially with seeing me hurt. So I– I’m sorry, I grabbed the first taxi I saw and went home.”

Jungkook stops the car. He parks it at the side of the road, breathing heavily. He swallows down the saliva that gathered in his mouth, keeping his tone as leveled as possible. “That’s good. No, that’s really good. I– I’m gonna come as soon as I can, okay?”

“Jungkook.”

“I just have to talk to the police real quick and call Juri so I can prepare a press release, but I will do that on my way to–”

“Jungkook, listen to me.”

Instantly, Jungkook clamps his mouth shut. 

“It might be better if you don’t come here. The reporters– They might follow you.”

Jungkook hadn’t thought about that. Anxiety spikes up again. “You are right,” he says quietly, tugging on his hair. “Of course. I should– I’m going to stay away and fix this mess. I am truly sorry, Jimin. I had no idea this would happen. You have to believe me–”

“Of course I believe you,” Jimin says right away. “I know you didn’t want any of this. It’s– it’s really shitty, but I know you would never put me or Juwon in danger like this.”

“Okay,” Jungkook mumbles. “Can I… Can I talk to Juwon? Apologize to him? We didn’t get to build that snowman…”

And he didn’t get to give Jimin the Christmas presents that are in the trunk.

Jimin breathes out slowly. “I’m sorry, he fell asleep. He was really spent, you know. I am sure he would have loved to talk to you, but I don’t want to wake him up.”

“Of course not. He should sleep. Forget I asked.”

“Are you okay?”

“Me?” Jungkook asks, confused. “I should be asking you that. You were hurt. Fuck, you were bleeding and I–”

“I’m okay. It didn’t need stitches, just got cleaned and dressed. Won’t look good on Christmas pictures, but whatever.”

Jungkook rests his face on the steering wheel, trying to take a deep breath. “It’s not okay either way.”

“Alpha, stop worrying so much.”

“You were hit in front of me and it was my fault.”

“She barely hit me. If you had let me, I would have ruined that crazy bitch.”

Jungkook blinks, staring at his phone. “I– I didn’t know you could be violent.”

“I didn’t want to shock Juwon. Because of Changwon, he hates seeing me hurt. He freaks out, so I… I just froze. I’m sorry.”

“No, that is completely understandable. You did everything right. I just– I panicked. I didn’t see her coming. She just suddenly– She was just there.”

“Are you okay?” Jimin asks for a second time. “Be honest.”

Somehow, Jungkook is the one that is panicking and Jimin is fine? Does he not understand the scale of this incident?

“I am,” Jungkook croaks out. “As long as you and Juwon are okay, I’m okay.”

Jimin sighs heavily. “It’s okay if you’re spooked. This was scary. She was your stalker, wasn’t she? You’re famous, after all.”

“I don’t know if she was a stalker. I am not exactly sure yet how this happened. I– I might have more updates tomorrow. I have to go back to the police station for now and try to fix this.”

“Okay, text me later, yeah?”

“Text you?”

“Yes?” Jimin says languidly. “Or call.”

“Really?”

“Uh, yes? Or do you want me to go crazy?” 

“Okay, I will,” he promises breathily, not believing that Jimin isn’t abandoning him. “I will.”

“I know you will. You’re reliable, remember? But don’t be too reliable. You can text me late. And– and I will still answer,” Jimin says shyly. “Promise,” he adds.

It makes Jungkook laugh softly. “Okay, love. I’ll text you really late. Past midnight.”

“I’ll be waiting for it.”

“Is that a threat?”

“You damn know it is. Don’t let me down, Jungkook.”

Don’t let me down. It seems to carry a double meaning.

Jungkook knows that Jimin’s biggest fear is to be deceived; to fall for someone who claims to be kind and good only to turn out abusive. He is hesitant with love—with Jungkook—because he is terrified of being let down and hurt. 

Yesterday, Jimin took a step in his direction. Today, he was going to open his heart for Jungkook.

Maybe, just maybe, there is hope for tomorrow. 

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Jungkook, 8:22PM

Love, I am home now. The police weren’t able to speak to the alpha because she seemed to be going through a psychotic break. She was hospitalized and they will try to question her again once she is stable. So, no news yet. I am sorry. I hope you are okay. Again, I am sorry. From the bottom of my heart, I am sorry. I never wanted you to get hurt.

Jimin, 8:24PM

It wasn’t your fault. I am okay. She was probably unwell. Everything will be okay. Go to sleep!

Jungkook, 8:25PM

I’m not tired. I can’t stop thinking about what could have happened.

Jimin, 8:25PM

If you were here, I’d sing you a lullaby like I do sometimes for Juwon

Jungkook, 8:26PM

Sounds like heaven. 

Jimin, 8:27PM

Will you come over tomorrow? 

Jungkook, 8:27PM

Yes. I’ll be there. I owe you an apology and you owe me a lullaby.

Jimin, 8:28PM 

And we need to talk, I didn’t get to say anything today because you kept distracting me

Jungkook, 8:29PM

Wow, the blasphemy

Yes, we need to talk. 

Jimin, 8:30PM

3pm? You can try the cookies Juwon made and decorated <3

Jungkook, 8:30PM

I’ll be there. 3pm on the dot. Looking forward to it, love. 

Jimin, 8:31PM

<3 <3

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Three missed calls from Yoongi are waiting for him.

And fifteen from Seokjin. Apparently he found out about the incident. It’s beyond Jungkook how, but there’s little that goes past the omega.

Joohyun also called. It was the only call Jungkook took today. She had no idea about what happened, so he could pretend everything was fine. Since life goes on despite traumatic things happening, Jungkook had to cut the call short so he could do the work he couldn’t do yesterday. 

He’s been waiting for updates all day long, hoping Juri will deliver them. Perhaps the missed calls from Yoongi were said updates, but Jungkook isn’t ready to face his friend’s questions yet. 

Around noon, three hours before his meeting with Jimin, Juri finally comes in. 

“Sajang-nim?” she asks cautiously. 

“An update on the reporters or the crazy alpha?”

“Well, uhm… I got a call. The perpetrator is still being treated, but she did tell them something. Didn’t Yoongi-ssi call you?”

“I ignored his calls,” Jungkook reveals, sighing at himself. 

“Do you want me to tell you?”

“Why does it sound like you’re going to give me really bad news?” 

Jungkook knows this look on people’s faces. This hesitation and the pain about having to be the one to break the bad news. Usually, Juri is heartless when it comes to this. She is cutthroat. She doesn’t hold back.

“You’re scaring me,” Jungkook says to her, rising from his seat. 

“There’s… uhm…” Juri looks uncomfortable. That alone is enough to alarm Jungkook even further. The beta rarely ever looks uncomfortable about something.

“Tell me.”

“Well, I talked to Yoongi and then– then I got a call from Shelli.”

“The intern?” Jungkook frowns deeply. “Why?”

“It aligns with what the police found out. What the strange alpha said.”

“Which is?”

“They informed me that there’s a forum on the internet dedicated to… you,” she forces out. 

“A what?”

“It’s– They discuss you and– and sometimes Jimin. They ship you.”

Jungkook scowls, lines appearing on his face. “Ship? What does that mean? Is that a slang I don’t know?”

“They want you and him together. That’s why this person who attacked you was there. They probably followed you around. And when they saw you with Jimin, they recognized you and because of all the stuff that was shared on this platform, they went… cuckoo. Guess seeing you in real life triggered them. So they snapped.”

“Say that again,” Jungkook demands.

“What exactly?”

“I don’t– I don’t get this forum thing. I know people post articles about me.”

“It’s not articles. It’s netizens that keep track of your life. Even employees from GAT apparently posted things.”

“E-Employees?” Jungkook rasps.

“I think so, yeah,” Juri mumbles with regret

Jungkook tries to keep his calm. “Help me understand this. There’s some sort of website where people talk about me and Jimin. And because of this website, Jimin was attacked.”

“That’s the short version, I suppose.”

Jungkook grinds his molars together, a deep breath filling up his lungs. 

Anger rises up in Jungkook, claiming his whole body. “How can I get this forum taken down?”

Juri shakes her head. “We’ll have to look into it.”

“The damage is already done,” Jungkook whispers. He has always been a quick thinker. Someone who made sure the future is accounted for. He sees his future in front of his eyes at this very moment. It doesn’t look like the version he was hoping for just a few minutes ago.

Jungkook knows very intimately how quickly your life can change. One moment, you are fixing a car with your father, the next he tells you he will die. One moment, you are in college, the next you are standing in front of three hundred people, presenting to them the medical device you invented. One moment, you go to a charity gala, the next you are in love.

And one moment, you are hoping for your love to be reciprocated, and in the next you suddenly realize with your heart ripping apart that the circumstances have drastically changed.

It took one parameter only. One variable in the equation.

“I’m sure we’ll get it taken down,” Juri says reassuringly, nodding erratically. “Don’t worry, sajang-nim, I will take care of it.”

“It’s not something you can fix,” Jungkook mutters, his head spinning as he tries to avoid an anxiety attack. 

“Sajang-nim–”

“I have to leave.”

Juri splutters. “Wh-what? Now? Where to?”

Jungkook reaches for his coat absent-mindedly, putting it on in a rigid movement. He heads past Juri, ignoring her confused face. 

Outside of the office, on the way to the elevator, Jungkook doesn’t breathe. Once he steps inside the confined place, he lets the air out, and punches the wall. 

Sharp pain shoots through his hand, but Jungkook doesn’t care.

He is on his way to punish himself.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

If Jungkook was any more selfish, he wouldn’t do this. 

If he was less prone to self-sabotage, he wouldn’t do this.

But he isn’t as self-aware as he thought. And he is certainly not someone who would subject those he loves to danger—to being attacked and stalked. 

He is an idiot. And altruism is sometimes the most toxic route you can take. 

Jungkook will only come to terms with this when it is too late. 

Jimin tries to hide it, but when he opens the door, he instantly notices something is wrong.

“You’re two hours early,” he says confusedly, gaze sweeping over Jungkook. 

Jungkook’s wearing a suit—like usually—while Jimin’s wearing sweatpants and a big shirt. He really didn’t expect Jungkook to be early. He hasn’t even gotten dressed yet. The wound on his cheekbone is covered by a small bandaid. It doesn’t hide all of the bruising. All of the hurt and pain. 

“I’m sorry,” Jungkook forces out, clearing his throat, remembering that he has to say something. “I– I had to come early.”

“Juwon is still at a friend’s house. He– Will you stay until he’s back? I have to get him in an hour and–”

“No, I… I don’t think I’ll stay that long.”

This makes Jimin step back. He already started questioning Jungkook the second he opened the door, now he is slowly realizing that Jungkook isn’t here to talk about them—not in the way that he was supposed to.

“What is going on?” Jimin questions, expression hardening slightly. 

On his way here, Jungkook didn’t turn on music. He sat in silence, trying to piece together words that would make this easier. 

Jimin, there is an online forum that is basically obsessed with me. That’s why you were attacked. Because of me. Because I indirectly subjected you to danger. 

“I…” Jungkook has no idea how to begin this. 

“I’m listening,” Jimin says.

Standing on the threshold to Jimin’s apartment embodies the way Jungkook has felt all his life; he was always between here and there, feeling inadequate, uprooted, not enough. He’s nowhere and everywhere, and now he is banning himself from ever reaching the destination he yearns for.

“It’s–”

“Just fucking say it,” Jimin quips, a muscle in his face twitching. “Whatever you want to say to make it easier, don’t bother.”

“You don’t understand. I don’t want to do this, I really don’t, but if I– If I don’t, then you–”

“I’m not enough.” The words cut through the air. 

Jimin is drawing conclusions even though Jungkook hasn’t said anything yet. 

Perhaps that is easier. 

“That’s it, isn’t it?” Jimin says angrily. “I waited too long and now you think I’m not enough.”

“No, I think you’re better off without me,” Jungkook whispers. “You and Juwon, I– You are better off without me endangering you.”

For a heartbeat, Jimin says nothing. Jungkook observes how every light leaves the omega’s eyes. He’s not wearing scent blockers. So the way sweet cherry turns into something bitter clogs up Jungkook’s senses, making his soul shriver.

“We should part ways then,” Jimin says, expression hardening fully, turning icy. “If you think that I’m so much better off without you."

Jungkook knew Jimin would react this way. It’s for the better, he tells himself. He cannot live with himself if he knowingly subjects Jimin and Juwon to danger. And an online forum dedicated to them—that is danger.

It’s something Jungkook cannot control. 

And something out of his control is terrifying. It is unpredictable and makes Jungkook so anxious, he cannot bear it. 

“Jimin,” Jungkook murmurs, head cocked to the side as his face contorts in pain.

“I thought you were being honest,” Jimin confesses, his lips starting to wobble. He laughs at himself. “Silly me, trusting someone’s words.”

“Yesterday was a fucking shitshow and I realized I cannot selfishly keep pursuing you when I–”

“Whatever fucking excuse you want to throw against my head, I’ve heard enough.” Jimin looks him up and down with disgust. “Alphas are all the same, after all.”

“Let me explain, Jimin, love, plea–”

Jimin’s finger bores itself into Jungkook’s chest as he hisses, “Don’t ever call me that again.”

“Okay,” Jungkook rears back, hands falling to his sides. “I apologize.”

“At least you had the manners to do it without Juwon being here,” Jimin notes coldly. “Considerate, I suppose.”

“Give me some time to fix this. I– I need to make sure that you’re not in danger by being with me and– and then–”

A derisive laugh comes from Jimin. “I’m not with you.” He jerks his head at Jungkook. “I think it’s better if you leave now. Go back to work or whatever. Don’t bother reaching out.”

"Nothing I said was a lie,” Jungkook murmurs, wishing he could turn back time.