Archive of Our Own

Jimin was folding laundry, a music awards show playing on television, when he saw Min Yoongi flash across the screen. He wasn't paying much attention, switching between his methodical ministrations to checking Twitter. Then there he was, hair done up nice and neat, suit a bit casual compared to the other attendees. He looked good, though; healthier than the last time Jimin had seen him. Jimin reached forward slowly for the remote, turning up the volume to listen to the red carpet interview.

"I see you're back to the classic Agust D bleached hair," the overly cheerful woman commented. Jimin could see the slight pinch in Yoongi's expression, the discomfort aroused by her volume. Jimin knew he was adverse to these sorts of events in the first place. Too much flaunting, he said. Too much noise.

"Ah, yeah. It's part of the upcoming album's concept," Yoongi nodded, absently adjusting his sleeve. He waved to another rapper passing behind him.

"Can you give us the album's name yet?" She asked.

Yoongi pulled on that charming half smile. "Sorry, but my team's already got an official reveal planned."

"Morning Star," Jimin said aloud to his empty living room, an odd twinge in his chest at how easily he recalled the project. It had still been in its early stages when they split. Jimin could vaguely remember what the first two tracks sounded like, though.

Jimin hadn't known Yoongi was going to go back to the blonde, however. Hair the same shade as when they first met two years and some change ago.

"Any collaborations you can reveal?"

"Well, I've got my single with Kim Seokjin dropping soon," Yoongi drawled.

"Right! How exciting!"

Jimin noticed the tension in Yoongi's jaw as soon as her voice pitched up. It was a minute thing, not a detail just anyone could pick up on. Jimin was still tuned in to Yoongi's mannerisms and intricacies, it seemed.

"I've heard rumors that the two of you are in a relationship. Anything to say to that?"

Yoongi ran his tongue over his bottom lip. Jimin's hands stilled. He set down the folded shirt slowly. Yoongi forced a chuckle.

"No, there's nothing going on. Seokjin-hyung's a friend and an even better musician. Our relationship isn't—" He shook his head. "No."

"What a power couple that would be, right?" She laughed. "I hear many of your fans are still hung up on your breakup with internet star, Park Jimin, though. He gained quite a lot of traction when you both were together—"

"Jimin is a man of many skills," Yoongi cut her off. "His growth in popularity reflects that. I doubt I had anything to do with it."

Jimin had half expected Yoongi to go along with the interview, mocking his career as an online personality, as many in the mainstream spotlight tended to do to creators like him. Yet, Yoongi stayed true to himself, honest, curt, but even more importantly—compassionate.

"Do you two still talk?" She asked, trying to recover from the momentary awkwardness of Yoongi's blunt tone.

"No," Yoongi said simply. His gaze flickered to the camera momentarily, catching Jimin off guard. Jimin's heartbeat stuttered, just for a second, feeling like Yoongi was looking at him for the first time in months.

While the interviewer floundered for a response, Kim Namjoon, better known as RM, came up behind Yoongi and slung an arm over his shoulder.

"Sorry, I've gotta steal him now. Our manager's urging us to sit down," Namjoon said into the mic, followed by a polite chuckle. There was evident relief on Yoongi's face as Namjoon steered him away, back down the red carpet so they could retreat inside.

Jimin took a deep breath. He lowered the volume again and returned to his laundry.

<< 

Jimin stuck his tongue out as he set up the camera on its tripod, wincing when he heard a crash behind him.

"Nothing broke!" Yoongi shouted from the other end of the kitchen. Honestly, the space was much too big. They'd moved into the new apartment barely a week ago, officially living together after eight months of dating.

The same day they'd moved in, Yoongi had taken a sweeping look at their place and suggested they have sex on every possible surface to "christen" it. Jimin may have burst into laughter, yet he found himself on the kitchen counter a mere hour later, breathless and moaning.

The same countertop they were now laying out their cooking supplies on.

Jimin clicked the power button and made sure the focus was adjusted before stepping in front of it. "Hi, peachies! Welcome back!" He said cheerily, clapping his hands together with a brilliant smile. "Today we're going to try making macarons. It's definitely going to be a disaster, but luckily I have my lovely assistant here to help out." He gestured toward Yoongi, the elder taking the cue to pop in frame.

"I will not be making the situation any better, but thanks, babe."

"Oh, you're so pretty to look at, though," Jimin cooed, pinching his boyfriend's cheek.

"I think you're the eye candy here," Yoongi retorted, stepping forward and crowding Jimin against the counter. He leaned in to peck Jimin. The first was fine, still rather family-friendly. Then there was another, and another. The following kiss was longer, deeper, and Jimin had to push him away.

"Now I've gotta edit that out," Jimin pouted.

"Oops," Yoongi stated, entirely unapologetic.

Jimin shook his head. He gestured toward the ingredients laid out. "I'll put the recipe link in the description. You'll need almond flower, cream, egg whites—"

Yoongi pointed to every ingredient until he reached the eggs, grabbing one and tossing it up before catching it.

"No!" Jimin said sharply. "No egg throwing."

Yoongi looked at the camera.

"Don't make that face, either. You don't deserve audience sympathy."

"I think that's for them to decided," Yoongi said cheekily, tossing the egg up again.

"Min Yoongi, I will kick you out of this kitchen," Jimin groaned.

Yoongi held a hand up in surrender and very dramatically set the egg back on the counter. Jimin narrowed his eyes when Yoongi smiled at him innocently. He huffed.

"As I was saying. You'll also need powdered sugar and food coloring. To stay on brand, we'll be using pink," Jimin stated, holding up the red dye.

"That's your brand," Yoongi said. "Why not black macarons, too, to stay on mine."

"Because it's my channel," Jimin said with an arched brow. "Can you even buy black food coloring?"

"Probably?" Yoongi shrugged. "Oh, you could just pour a ton of different colors in until it's dark enough to seem black."

"Yoon, that'll just make brown," Jimin sighed, aware of how endeared he still sounded.

"I didn't graduate college," Yoongi justified, looking back at the camera again.

Jimin muffled a giggle behind his palm. "God, this is going to take forever, isn't it?"

"Definitely," Yoongi agreed with that adorable grin.

"Alright, better get started, then," Jimin said, clapping his hands together. Yoongi copied him, clap louder than Jimin's. Jimin rolled his eyes.

Thirty minutes later found them holding bags of icing, the expanse of the kitchen a mess of flour and red dye. Yoongi had managed to squeeze frosting onto Jimin's face, the younger trying desperately to fight him off, only devolving into exasperated laughter. He finally pushed Yoongi away and wiped at his face, licking the white, sugary substance off his fingers.

Yoongi swiped a thumb over Jimin's cheek to collect a bit of icing for himself. He leaned back against the countertop and hummed. "That's a familiar sight, huh Angel?"

Jimin balked for a moment. "Yoongi! Family-friendly!"

>> 

Jimin and Taehyung were sat in front of the former's makeup station, filming a collaboration. Jungkook was sprawled out behind them on Jimin's bed. The concept was an autumn makeup look combined with a casual Q and A. Jungkook was scrolling through the hashtag—AskPeachieAndVante—-searching for decent questions.

"I love this red color," Taehyung noted, examining the deep orange hue as he leaned into the mirror. "What's it called?"

"Withering Sunset," Jimin read, squinting down at the palette. "I don't use these colors much. I could give it to you."

"God, you are an angel," Taehyung said, not even thinking twice about the name.

Although Jimin's online persona was officially PeachieMochi, his fans had picked up on the nickname Angel, coined by Yoongi years ago. Jimin was accustomed to just about everyone calling him that now, yet he couldn't erase the connection it held to the originator.

"Jimin, question!" Jungkook shouted.

"You can come closer, y'know," Jimin sighed.

"Nah, you've got a soft mattress," Jungkook said. "Anyway, JiminieSmiles on Twitter wants to know how long you've had pink hair, and if it's hard to maintain."

"Um, four years, I think?" Jimin said. "I was blonde for the first year of my channel, then I made the transition and never turned back. And it's a pain in the ass to maintain. Sometimes the coloring doesn't come out right, too bright or pigmented, since I like it to be pastel. You also gotta find a brand that works well and lasts a while."

"Tae, Taekookie12 asks, in reference to your last vlog, if you call your boyfriend ‘Daddy’ often."

Taehyung dropped his brush and swiveled around to glare at said boyfriend. "Why did you pick that?"

"I'm actually rather curious too."

"Don't play naïve, asshat. And no, I do not. In our daily life, he's ‘brat’ more than anything else," Taehyung said pointedly.

"Jimin, yeontantantan asks if you wear skirts in the summer because of the heat. Clearly a new follower of yours."

"Skirts are all year round," Jimin said firmly. "Thigh highs in the fall, and thick tights in the winter. It's about how you accessorize that fits the season."

"Fascinating," Jungkook drawled. "For both of you, from YoonMin95—"

Jimin tamped down a frown at the username.

"—Ulta or Sephora?"

"Oh," Taehyung said in a scandalized voice. "You trying to start something, OP? Well, I'm not sponsored by either, so..." He glanced at Jimin. Jimin shrugged. "Sephora, obviously."

"Sure, what Tae said," Jimin muttered. He tilted his head to observe the glitter on his eyelids, sparkling under the lighting.

"Another one for you both. Pastel18Angel asks whether you've seen the album cover for Agust D's Morning Star, and what you think of it."

Taehyung looked at Jimin briefly, gauging his reaction to the mention of his ex. "Kookie, maybe we'll skip that one—"

"It's fine," Jimin interjected. "I think it's cool. Yoongi tends to go for darker concepts, and he pulled this one off really well. For any of you who haven't seen it yet, he's got this underworld prince thing going on. Sitting on a throne with a dark backdrop. The editing's nice, outfit is sleek and attractive. It's good branding."

Taehyung was quiet for a moment, expression neutral before he snapped back to attention. "His hair looks real nice this era. It was a good choice going back to the bleached undercut. RM too. He's got this vibrant purple going on. I'd smash."

"Wow, great to know," Jungkook said.

"What? Like you wouldn't?"

"You know I have the biggest crush on RM, Tae. Don't question my gay loyalties."

Taehyung snorted and resumed his contour.

Jimin sat back, gaze roving over his lipstick options. His head was a muddle of Yoongi now—the spread of his legs as he lounged on the throne, the rings on his long fingers, the slight pout of his lips, and those dark eyes, staring right back at him.

<< 

Jimin was doing a late night live stream, tripod set up on the floor while he painted his nails and chatted with his viewers. He blew his hair out of his eyes and glanced down at the sleeve slipping off his shoulder, cursing himself for wearing it while knowing his nails would be wet.

"Have you tried fake nails?" Jimin read aloud from the stream chat scrolling through. "No. I actually like to keep mine clipped. I find it frustrating trying to pick things up when they're too long, so I just stick to natural. I like a strong nail, though, so I use higher end polish." He waved his left hand in front of the camera, showing off the drying baby blue polish.

"Have you considered getting a dog? We have, actually! My only thing is that I have some YouTube events coming up in the next few months, and Yoongi's got a schedule full of concerts and promotions lined up. So not now, but hopefully soon," Jimin nodded.

"Are you doing Vlogmas this year?" Jimin read. It was nearing the end of November, first snow set on the forecast, only a couple days away. "Maybe. It honestly depends on if I'll even have enough to vlog. Plus, we might be staying in Daegu for a week next month with Yoongi's family. I don't really want to be shoving the camera in their faces if that's the case, y'know? But I'm definitely thinking about it. I'll tell you guys when I do decide."

Jimin blew on his right hand once he finished it, proceeding to shake it as he waited for the polish to harden. He leaned back against his bed and withheld a yawn. Yoongi should have been back two hours ago. At this point, Jimin was just passing the time, knowing he'd wake when Yoongi got home if he did try to sleep.

"Favorite song at the moment?" Jimin pursed his lips and hummed. He grinned cheekily, then. "'Angel' by Agust D."

There was a chorus of "of course," and "I knew he'd say that," flowing through the chat.

"But it is!" Jimin laughed. "Yoonie worked real hard on the track, and I really liked being in the music video. Which, by the way, drops next week. You better look forward to it."

Jimin picked up his phone and pulled up the cover image for the single, turning it toward the camera for the audience to see. "That photo shoot took so long! But I'm really happy with the turnout. Don't I look so cute?" He said with a pout.

The image was edited to resemble a Polaroid, depicting Jimin curled into Yoongi's side, the rapper's arm slung around his waist while Jimin splayed a palm over his chest. It was intimate, Jimin on his tip-toes as he whispered into Yoongi's ear, only half their faces visible, yet Yoongi's smirk clear as day. Jimin had been dressed up in a flowy, lacy white skirt and a silk pink blouse. He really did look something like an angel.

"They're so in love, it's disgusting," Jimin read a comment, barely catching it as it flew through the rest of the chat. He snickered and shook his head. "I'm sorry. It's not like I asked him to write the song. I actually wasn't aware he was working on it 'til it was nearly done. Yoongi handed over some earphones randomly and told me to say what I think. I felt like I was being serenaded."

Jimin's cheeks hurt with how wide he was smiling. "So yeah, you could say we're disgustingly in love. It's weird for me too, don't worry. I've never been in a relationship that's lasted over a year. And now that we're creeping up on two years, it's... wow, it's a lot. I kinda feel like I found my soulmate," Jimin confessed, blushing up to his ears. "Don't tell Yoongi I said that, though. He'll never let me live it down," Jimin said in a conspiratorially hushed voice, leaning in close to the camera.

The front door opened then, startling Jimin back against the bed. "I think Yoongi's home," Jimin said quietly, trying to glance out the bedroom door to spot his boyfriend.

"Min?" Yoongi called, footsteps echoing through the dark apartment.

"In here," Jimin responded.

Yoongi stepped in, appearance ruffled. He shrugged off his coat and patted down his black hair. "Filming?"

"Just a live stream," Jimin replied. Yoongi settled down beside him with a quick kiss. "You're back late."

"Ah, got holed up in the studio," he said, otherwise occupied with snaking a hand over to Jimin's hip, dragging him flush to his side.

"Careful. I painted my nails," Jimin murmured, setting his hands in his lap.

Yoongi picked one up, looking over the light polish. "Cute."

"You gonna say hi to them?" Jimin prompted, nodding toward the camera. The chat was full of excited greetings toward Yoongi.

"Yeah. Hey guys," Yoongi said, voice gruff. He must have been recording today. "I think most of you should be in bed, huh? Is my angel keeping you up?"

Jimin smiled tiredly and rested his head against Yoongi's shoulder. "It's fine. It's Saturday tomorrow, anyway."

"Mm. What're you doing? Talking?"

"Basically," Jimin said. "Casual stuff."

Yoongi began running his thumb along the inside of Jimin's palm, absently playing with his fingers as he read through the ever-moving chat. "Favorite song on the album? Mine?" Yoongi said. "I feel like I shouldn't pick favorites among my children."

Jimin snickered, nose scrunching up. "I like ‘Tony Montana,’" Jimin commented. "And the one you did with Joon-hyung, ‘Worldwide.’"

Yoongi hummed. "I guess I'm partial to ‘First Love.’"

"Oh, that one's nice," Jimin agreed. "I told them to look out for the ‘Angel’ music video soon."

"Right," Yoongi murmured. "Stream ‘Angel,’" he added cheekily. "If it sells well enough, I'll buy my angel a nice dinner."

"Only if it sells well enough?" Jimin pouted, looking up at him through hooded eyes.

"Or, y'know, whenever you want," Yoongi appeased. He kissed the tip of Jimin's nose.

There was a chorus of "whipped" in the chat.

"Sounds good. Take me out tomorrow then, hyung," Jimin purred.

Yoongi looked at him for a long moment, eyes darkening at Jimin's sultry tone. Yoongi grasped his chin and kissed Jimin's plush lips, thumb moving to part them so he could slip his tongue in. It took Jimin a moment to register how inappropriate this was, too enthralled by the contact. He tapped Yoongi's chest, urging him to stop. Yoongi pulled back and licked his own lips.

"Your gloss tastes like cherries."

"I know," Jimin sighed, busy fighting the heavy blush along his neck. He cleared his throat and turned to the camera, gaze flickering over the chat. "The brand? Honestly, I don't remember," Jimin answered. He brushed a hand through his hair, increasingly tired and overheated.

Yoongi laughed, trying to muffle it into a palm. His chest heaved with the action, eyes glittering with mirth.

"What's so funny?" Jimin asked, arching a brow.

"Just read a comment that asked if you're a bottom," Yoongi said breathlessly, much too amused by this. "What do you think, bud?"

"Don't mock them," Jimin whined. "You never know what people's preferences are. Not that it's your right to know at all," Jimin said, pointing at the camera. "That's very personal."

"Are there people who think you're not a bottom?" Yoongi said incredulously. "Is that an actual point of speculation?"

"Shut up, Yoon," Jimin sighed.

Yoongi leaned down to kiss Jimin's bare shoulder apologetically. "Sorry. That one got me." He moved up to press his lips to Jimin's jaw, sucking at the skin as a shiver wracked Jimin's body.

"I can't edit this out," Jimin complained.

"Then shut it off," Yoongi muttered huskily, breath fanning across the sensitive skin.

Jimin bit his lip, knowing it was an abrupt cut off. But the heat simmering in his belly wasn't going away.

"That's it for tonight, guys," Jimin said, voice a bit strained. "We've gotta get some sleep. You rest well too. Bye," Jimin said hurriedly, lurching forward to shut the camera off. He waited until the red light was definitely gone before standing to rest on the mattress, Yoongi quickly following to hover over him. "You do this too often," Jimin breathed, wrapping his arms around Yoongi's shoulders as the elder began mouthing at his neck.

"And yet you let me do it every time," Yoongi rasped. He moved up, capturing Jimin's lips in a languid kiss.

>> 

Jimin was searching through his YouTube feed for an interview he'd featured in a week ago. The video was finally posted and he wanted to review what they'd cut and left in. He watched through the video from his bed, back pressed to the headboard and eyes tired. It wasn't that early in the morning, but it was one of those days where Jimin had the hardest time getting up.

The interview was rather typical, revolving around his recent collaborations, future projects, and close friendship with fellow beauty guru Vante and his photographer boyfriend, Jungkook. They used to ask about Yoongi, even after the breakup. Now that it'd been five months, though, people had finally learned to back off.

He found his eyes wandering to the recommended bar once the video was over, finding one of his old dance covers. He used to do a lot of those with his choreographer friend, Hoseok. He found himself leaning more into the makeup side of content lately, though, letting dance fall behind into a hobby.

His cover of Red Velvet's “Bad Boy” dance was suggested on-screen. Jimin clicked on it.

He remembered how fun it'd been, learning the choreography with Hoseok over the span of a week. He'd dressed up to shoot the video in Hoseok's dance studio, decked out in tight black jeans, holes in the knees and thighs to show off the fishnets beneath. His pink hair had been slicked back, a few strands falling into his face as he danced, body lost in the sensual movements. His makeup was heavy and dark, eyeliner blended into his smoky eye.

Jimin really did look hot—no wonder that was the video that had garnered Yoongi's attention.

<< 

Jimin was sitting at his desk, applying his makeup for the day while a live stream was running. He was preparing to shoot a new video, talking with his viewers as he got ready. "Did you see Agust D's tweet?" One comment read.

Jimin squinted at the screen and set his blender down. "What Agust D tweet?"

He focused on the chat as comments whirred by, eyes widening when multiple people said the rapper had comment retweeted on Jimin's Red Velvet dance video. He quickly grabbed his phone and pulled up Twitter, searching though his mentions.

Sure enough, just under an hour ago, Min @agustd had commented, "I'd let him shoot this bad boy down."

Jimin's palm hovered over his mouth, gaping in shock that Min Yoongi had not only noticed him, but seemed to be flirting with him as well. Jimin had been a fan of the rapper for at least a year, enamored with his lyricism, deep voice, and blatant attractiveness.

"What the fuck. What do I say, guys?" Jimin whispered.

"Flirt back!" Someone said. "Play it cool," another commented.

Jimin bit his lip, thumbs hovering over the screen as his mind whirred with what he could possibly write back. Was the rapper just teasing him? Maybe there were no ulterior motives behind the comment. Just casual playfulness. But god, did Jimin want to look into it anyway.

He pressed reply and typed slowly, questioning every word he put down. He eventually settled with a simple, "DM me next time, and we'll see." Flirty, but not too obvious. He hit send.

Jimin sat back, not really expecting a response from Yoongi. He read over the chat, catching a brief exchange.

"I didn't know Agust D was gay."

"He's bi, I think. It's always been pretty ambiguous."

Jimin chuckled. "Agust D raps about eating ass, guys. I'd say he's at least a little gay," Jimin joined in.

His phone buzzed, starling him. Jimin squinted down, seeing that he had a new DM. He swore he stopped breathing when he read the name. "He did not," Jimin mumbled in disbelief. He hesitated, finger hovering over his screen.

Jimin bit his lip, deciding he didn't want this part to be broadcast to his audience. For all he knew, Yoongi's message could be a rejection.

"Hey, uh, something just came up and I gotta go. I'll still be filming today, so expect the weekly video out tomorrow afternoon, okay?" He mustered a smile for the camera, waiting for the viewers to bid their goodbyes before shutting it off.

Once the stream was down, Jimin grasped his phone and scurried over to his bed. He grabbed a pillow and hugged it to his chest, heart thumping madly. He felt like a pining teen again. Jimin opened the message with bated breath.

"Figured it was the opportunity of a lifetime to hit you up on that offer. So, should I call you Peachie or Jimin?"

Jimin buried his face in the pillow for a moment and squealed. He proceeded to fix his hair, as if the man could see him through the text.

"My friends just call me Jimin. But you can call me whatever you want," Jimin typed out, smoother than he thought he could manage, given his state of excitement.

"Great."

"You free to go out sometime, Jimin?"

Jimin gaped down at his phone, submerged in a thorough state of shock. Go out? Like a date? With Agust fucking D? Jimin pinched himself.

"Yeah, I could fit that into my schedule," Jimin replied. He bit his lip, and started typing again. "What should I call you? Agust-hyungnim? Min Yoongi-ssi?"

Only a beat passed before he responded. "Just hyung will do."

Jimin collapsed backwards in a fit of elated giggles.

>> 

After the dance cover, Jimin fell down a click hole, lost in memories of his prior years on the site. He eventually stumbled upon one of the first vlogs Yoongi had appeared in. It was a couple months after they had started dating. Although many people were speculating over the nature of their relationship, neither had yet to confirm anything.

They were eating ice cream, talking about an incident at a convenience store where Yoongi was nearly chased down by a growing horde of fans. Of course, they could laugh about it after.

Jimin was giggling at Yoongi's retelling, then the elder paused, simply observing Jimin's grin and the pink tint to his cheeks. He leaned over and kissed Jimin—just a casual thing. Jimin forgot to edit it out.

As expected, there were riots in the comment section, the entirety of his audience losing their shit over the random show of romantic affection.

It took Jimin a whole other month to confirm their relationship. That caused an even larger incredulous uproar, just about everyone telling Jimin that, "They'd been knew."

Jimin smiled at the easygoing atmosphere of the video and sank further back into his pillows.

Then his cursor hovered over a compilation video: "Seven Minutes of Yoongi Annoying Jimin [YoonMin]." Without thinking, Jimin clicked.

The first clip was from Jimin's "Boyfriend Buys my Outfit" video. Yoongi was presenting the items rather proudly, most much skimpier than Jimin would ever dream of wearing. A lot of very tight booty shorts and cutoff tops. Then Yoongi held up a pair of lacy pink panties.

Jimin gaped at him. "The point is to buy an outfit, dumbass. This is underwear, not something I'd go out in!" Jimin chastised, scandalized.

"What?" Yoongi frowned. "I figured you'd look cute in it."

Jimin's brows pinched together. He turned toward the camera with mild disbelief.

The compilation cut to another part of the video where Jimin actually tried the clothes on—panties excluded, of course. There were still quite a few screenshots from this part of the video floating around the internet.

Jimin walked out in denim shorts that covered half his ass and a pastel sweater showing his midriff.

"Turn around, babe," Yoongi said cheekily, twirling his finger.

Jimin sighed and did as told, showing off the peach on the back of the sweater.

"Now do a little dance," Yoongi continued, taking out his phone and turning on a slow beat, seriously expecting Jimin to dance along to it.

Jimin swiveled back around with a scowl, hands on his hips. "Yoongi," he hissed.

"Wow, I bought you the cutest shit and you won't even call me hyung. I'm heartbroken," Yoongi said, hand over his heart.

There was a closeup on Jimin as he rolled his eyes.

The next clip was from the "Boyfriend Does my Makeup" video. Jimin almost groaned at the flashbacks.

The compilation only showed the worst of it, though, skipping over the initial bickering and landing on the point where Jimin was just about done with Yoongi. Yoongi was finishing up his handiwork, Jimin staring at him with a defeated expression.

"Tell me honestly, hyung. How bad is it?" Jimin questioned.

Yoongi's nose scrunched up as he held in a laugh. "It's... good."

"Seriously?"

"Hey, I'd smash, " Yoongi shrugged.

"God, you sound like Taehyung," Jimin groaned.

Yoongi continued grinning at Jimin, laughter bubbling up inside him at Jimin's clear discomfort. Jimin just figured Yoongi was getting his fill of payback for the time Jimin did a full face on him.

Jimin bit the inside of his cheek, clearly resisting strangling his boyfriend. "As of today, I have one Agust D up on the market for those interested," Jimin drawled, gesturing toward him in a sweeping motion. "All he's good for is running his mouth, but he's still in mint condition, and now on sale at the low, low cost of two hundred won."

"Oh, c'mon. I'm worth more than that."

Jimin nodded. "Right. I need compensation for all the makeup you've wasted on this ridiculous mess that's surely overtaken my face. My new, yet still reasonable price is now nine hundred won. Act fast, folks. First offer gets him."

Jimin had edited a flashing sale sign over Yoongi, imitating an infomercial. The graphic described Yoongi as a "Lazy rapper with sub-par tongue technology."

Yoongi thrust the personal mirror in Jimin's face. Jimin shrieked in horror.

And on and on the compilation went, memories returning to Jimin like a shock of cold water burst free. He found himself laughing at the clips, heart warm over the ridiculous moments he and Yoongi had shared.

When the video was over, it automatically switched him to another by the same user titled, "Twelve Minutes of YoonMin Being Disgustingly in Love."

Jimin didn't have the heart to click away. It was mostly Yoongi sneaking in quick kisses, or Jimin grabbing his hand whenever they were out and about. Then there were Yoongi's apologetic hugs after they'd screwed up yet another recipe on-camera.

Yoongi's not so subtle whispers against Jimin's ear, Jimin's following giggles. The fond looks in their eyes whenever their gazes lingered too long. Yoongi's hands on Jimin's thigh, hip, cheek, threaded in his hair.

The sweetest parts of their time spent together. They couldn't keep to themselves even on camera.

Yet it wasn't always that pleasant. When the camera wasn't rolling, there were spats. There were nights spent apart, hours where they wouldn't talk to each other over unresolved disputes.

And there was loneliness. So much time Jimin spent by himself, questioning how their relationship had evolved, and where it could progress. How much more painful it could get.

Behind the good, there had always been a bad side too.

<< 

Jimin's breathing was labored, hair stuck to his forehead. His head was pressed to Yoongi's heaving chest, palm splayed out over his heart. The room echoed their panting back to them, the rest of the apartment void of sound or life.

They never did get that dog like Jimin wanted.

Jimin stared at Yoongi's pale skin contrasted against his own. The way Jimin's black nail polish was chipped after days of biting them. He thought he'd kicked that habit after high school.

There was a fan whirring to life in the distance. It did nothing to cool his overheated skin.

Three days ago, Yoongi had returned to Seoul after a week in Tokyo. Three days ago, Yoongi dropped off his suitcase and left for the studio. Three days ago, Jimin was given an hour to be with his boyfriend after seven whole days apart.

Now it was two in the morning. Yoongi got back just after midnight, a little tipsy, many excuses on his tongue as to why he needed to spend the evening celebrating with coworkers he spent nearly every day around.

Jimin was starting to wonder if it was him, if Yoongi just didn't like to be around... him, of all people. Jimin knew Yoongi was addicted to his work. He lived and breathed music. And Jimin respected that. Yet it felt like with each passing day, Jimin's spot in Yoongi's heart was being overtaken. He was terrified of getting thrown out completely.

The possibility had been on Jimin's mind for days. He found himself crying in the darkness of his empty home. He'd tried asking Yoongi to spare more time for him, maybe work from their apartment every once in a while. Yoongi could make promises, but he rarely kept them.

Then Yoongi came back this time, telling Jimin how much he'd missed him, how he wished Jimin could come to these work events. Despite Jimin's cold demeanor, Yoongi grabbed him by the hip and whispered how pretty he was, how lucky Yoongi was to have someone so kind and patient around.

Jimin fell, as he always did, easing into Yoongi's words, his touch. He let the elder kiss his neck, then his mouth, hands running along Jimin's waist until the younger responded. Jimin wanted to forget the ache in his chest, forgoing the emotional pain for physical strain.

Jimin told himself to forget it all as he was pushed back into the bed. He told himself it didn't matter, because Yoongi was here now, his skin against Jimin's, his lips to Jimin's thighs, touch scorching across his body. It didn't matter, Jimin thought. Over and over until the words lost meaning.

Yet when it was over, once they were both tired and sated, the emptiness behind his ribs returned. His thoughts flooded back, every doubt that'd been festering for months. No matter how hard he tried, Jimin couldn't erase the worse parts of their situation.

He knew, in the back of his head, that he should do something about it. Make it better somehow.

On the rare occasion Jimin expressed his concerns over how often his boyfriend was away, he got commenters chastising him, telling Jimin that it was just the lifestyle. Telling Jimin that he should be grateful there weren't cheating scandals. Because apparently his boyfriend could be flirting with his fangirls and fucking his fanboys—Jimin should be happy that Yoongi remained loyal despite the expectations and fame that permeated so much of his life.

When he complained to Taehyung, the latter said Jimin should find someone who gave him what he needed. But the matter wasn't that simple. Love and the accompanying connection wasn't merely a string to be severed. It was this interconnected, living, breathing entity. Damaging it would only hurt the both of them more in the process.

Jimin didn't think about the end of their relationship for a long, long time. He had simply assumed it would never come. Jimin loved Yoongi with his whole heart. He believed this man was his soulmate. Yet Jimin couldn't fix the wounded part of them when Yoongi was so reluctant to help.

Jimin's throat seized up as the silence between them lingered, devolving into this tangible distance. No matter how tightly Jimin clung to Yoongi, he couldn't stop the tears pricking his eyes or the sob cutting off his airways.

He couldn't cry quietly for long. Yoongi sat up and looked at Jimin with wide, shocked eyes. He reached out tentatively, thumb brushing across the tears streaking down his cheek.

"You're crying," Yoongi whispered, voice edged with worry. "Jimin..."

"I'm sorry," Jimin said in a wavering voice, shutting his eyes as Yoongi caressed him. "I'm sorry, Yoon."

"Why? What's going on, Angel?" Yoongi asked, a tinge of fear creeping in.

"I love you," Jimin sobbed, pressing himself to Yoongi's bare skin. "But I can't do this anymore."

"Do what?" Yoongi urged. He forced Jimin up, holding him by his shoulders. "Look at me."

Jimin shut his eyes. He couldn't look at Yoongi directly. He'd lose his resolve and fall right back into the normal they'd created. Jimin didn't want to imagine the end, but he needed to face it.

"I'm breaking up with you," Jimin said weakly. He curled into himself, felt Yoongi's hands leave him, left cold and alone.

"Why?" Yoongi breathed. He could hear the raw hurt in his voice.

"You're never around," Jimin said, wrapping his arms around his knees. "You're either at work or out with people from your label. You don't spend time with me anymore. I shouldn't feel alone when I'm in a fucking relationship."

"You should've told me—"

"I've been telling you for months!" Jimin exclaimed, opening his eyes, needing Yoongi to see the sincerity in them. "Over and over, I've asked you to work from home, to not stay so late, to take me out at least once. You brushed it off every damn time, Yoongi! I used to be your whole world, and I'm not saying that I have to be now, but I'd at least like to still be part of it."

"I'm sorry, Jimin," Yoongi said firmly, searching Jimin's expression for any sign of hope. "I promise you I will do better if you let me."

"But I can't be sure," Jimin whispered. "I'm already miserable like this. I can't keep doing it."

Yoongi opened his mouth, words caught before he could utter them. His expression was pinched, shoulders hunched in defeat. Under different circumstances, Jimin would wrap himself around Yoongi's shoulders and bury his nose against his neck, holding him tight. But Jimin had a hard enough time holding himself together at this point.

"So, I'm not worth the trouble anymore?" Yoongi said. It felt like a punch to the gut, the blunt manner of his words.

Jimin's throat constricted; he looked away. All he could say was, "I'm sorry."

>> 

Jimin sat in front of his monitor, streaming a "get ready with me" in the late morning. He was blending his eyeshadow, focused on the mirror to his left. He pursed his lips in concentration, then glanced back at the screen when he had a chance.

"What brand?" Jimin read. He picked up the palette and showed the camera. "It stays on all day, barely any smudges. A little pricey, though."

He hummed to himself and uncapped his eyeliner, hand steady with years of practice. When Jimin was finished, he turned this way and that to examine himself in front of the mirror, and applied setting spray.

"Huh. That was rather quick and painless," Jimin observed, surprised he'd finished in a shorter time frame than usual. "Guess I've got a few minutes to kill before I need to head out. Tell me about how you've been, peachies. What have you been up to?"

A multitude of answers scrolled past, Jimin reading as many as he could. A particular comment caught his eye.

"I've been obsessed with Morning Star. It came out today! Have you listened to it yet, Angel?"

"Ah, Morning Star," Jimin said quietly. "I haven't gotten the chance to listen to it, no. I passed out pretty early last night, way before it dropped. Then had to get ready this morning. I've got meetings just about all day, but..." Jimin shrugged. "I'll try to listen to it tonight, yeah? I can tell you guys what I think after."

"You really don't have to."

"Doesn't it feel weird being expected to listen to your ex's music?"

"Don't feel like anyone's forcing you."

"Guys," Jimin chuckled. "It's fine. I've loved Yoongi's music since the early days. Of course I want to listen to it."

"Are you two on good terms?"

Jimin hummed and ran a hand through his hair. "To be honest, Yoon and I haven't spoken for months. But I guess things aren't exactly on bad terms."

"Good luck at your meetings!"

"Remember to eat today."

"Thank you for the reminders to eat—"

"Make sure you listen to ‘Seesaw.’ People think it's about you."

Jimin cut himself off, expression falling slack as he read the comment. "‘Seesaw,’ huh?" He murmured. "You shouldn't make a fuss. I'm sure Yoongi has plenty of muses. But obviously I'll listen to it anyway," Jimin said carefully. "I've got to go now. I'll see you all soon."

There was a slew of goodbyes. Jimin shut the stream down.

<< 

Jimin sat in front of his monitor, camera set on its stand, pointed toward the chair. Jimin placed a steaming mug of tea on the desk and curled up in the chair, pulling his hands into his sleeves. He shut his eyes and took a deep breath.

Jimin was in sweats and a loose shirt, face bare. He hadn't the motivation to do much throughout the past week. Between moving Yoongi out and dealing with his sudden absence from Jimin's life... Jimin had simply been trying to keep himself alive. He felt like he'd ripped a part of himself out. Now he had to learn to function again.

Jimin hit record.

"Hey, guys," Jimin murmured, forgoing his usual greeting. "I know a lot of you already caught on, but I figured I should let you know directly, especially since there's gonna be noticeable changes around here now. And if any of you are concerned about why I didn't post last week—don't be. I'm fine, physically. I just need some time to recover from my emotional stuff."

He sniffled and brushed a hand through his hair, reluctant to just spit it out already. "Yoongi and I broke up," he stated. Jimin bit the inside of his cheek and glanced away. He had to reel himself in and finish the damn video. Jimin had incorporated Yoongi into so much of his channel; the announcement was necessary.

"Don't, um, don't go mobbing him over it, please? We're being civil about the whole thing, 'cause really what split us up was a personal thing that had been around for a while. Then it just got worse and worse." Jimin sighed, rubbed at his nose. He knew his eyes were still red from crying earlier, dark circles beneath them from days of little sleep. "Just treat him as kindly as you always have, because he's a good person. Okay?"

He shifted in his seat, staring down at his lap. "Not to go into detail, but it turns out we aren't that compatible. As for the aftermath, though... It's been rough, not gonna lie."

Jimin heard the heater turn on, white noise whirring in the background. He paused to gather his thoughts, weight still heavy in his gut. Part of him just wanted to sleep until the pain faded. Scars were better than open wounds.

"I know you guys have gotten used to Yoongi being around, and I was so glad how well you took to him, really. I only hope it's not too strange having him gone. Trust me, I have to adjust a whole lot, too. And it might be slow," Jimin shrugged. "I'm going to try to get back to work soon, but it's hard to tell right now how long this healing thing is gonna take. He was such a big part of my life, y'know?" Jimin's voice cracked.

He bit his lip, throat tightening. "I didn't really... I never actually pictured having to do this. Having to say goodbye to him. I honestly thought he was the one. The man I was gonna," Jimin laughed wetly, tears pricking his eyes, "The man I was gonna marry.

"But life had other plans, yeah? Nothing lasts forever," Jimin said, more as a reminder to himself. "I just think the hardest part, about telling you this, about dealing with it all, is that I—" Jimin shut his eyes, tears overflowing and streaking down his flushed cheeks. "I love him. I do, so much. And I know it's going to be a long time before I stop," Jimin said weakly, "If I ever do."

Jimin sucked in a deep, stuttering breath. "Alright, I should end this before I get too worked up," Jimin managed to get out. "Thank you for your constant love and support. I'll be back soon."

He shut the camera off.

>> 

Jimin was incredibly tired by the time he got home that night. He'd spent the afternoon in meetings, then a long dinner with Taehyung and Jungkook. He finally had the chance to buy and download Yoongi's album.

He changed into comfortable sleepwear and removed his makeup before settling on the ground, back against his bed and blanket in his lap. Jimin had a view of the city skyline as he put in his earbuds and hit play on the first track of Morning Star.

It was titled “Lucifer,” and as the song played, Jimin smiled wistfully. He remembered this track, especially the early days of it where Yoongi was constantly checking for Jimin's appraisal. Jimin was originally supposed to sing background vocals. Before they could get to it, though... well, they split.

The final product sounded good. Deep and sensual like Yoongi had wanted, the chorus of "I can be your Lucifer," echoing in Jimin's head, sending a small shiver down his spine. Jimin could almost imagine his own voice in the background crooning, "an angel turned demon just for you." The song sounded a bit hollow without the added vocals.

Before Jimin knew it, the track was over and he was moving onto the next. The album flowed seamlessly, theme intact throughout, lyrics and beat riveting. Jimin barely noticed the time passing by while song after song rang through his ears.

He also vaguely recognized another track in the middle. Yoongi had only given this one to Jimin once for review. He'd ended up calling it “Farther Tides,” a piece about physical and emotional distance, as well as chasing impossible dreams. It was notably slower than the other tracks, tone somber. Yoongi had managed to relay the downsides of booming success.

The final song was what made Jimin really pause, though. “Seesaw”—the track he'd been told to look out for. Jimin listened attentively, initially caught off guard by Yoongi's singing. Interesting new direction, but definitely not a bad one.

The longer the track went on, the more Jimin understood why people were drawing connections. It sounded like a deeply personal piece, iterating the tiring back and forth of a dying relationship. The lyrics made Jimin's heart feel heavy, head clouded with memories of that painful breakup.

The way Yoongi described it from his perspective was what really had Jimin emotional. Like that night when Jimin had started crying, Yoongi seemed to have just given up. Without another person in this long, exhausting fight, the pursuit had lost its purpose.

Just as Jimin felt the solitude deep in his bones, so had Yoongi. At the end of it all, he was simply alone.

Jimin found himself on the verge of tears by the time the track faded out.

It was quite a depressing note to end on, but Yoongi had never been one for sugar-coating things. If there was no bright horizon from Yoongi's perspective, he wasn't going to fabricate one for the sake of an audience.

Jimin heaved an exhale and pulled out his earbuds, still trying to process the emotional journey that entire album was. His chest felt emptier than it had in a very long time, as if he'd suddenly been reminded that he was missing something vital.

Maybe Jimin wasn't in his right mind. It'd been a long day and he was frighteningly close to crying. That must be it, Jimin told himself as he stood on unsteady legs. He just wasn't himself, Jimin thought as he opened a beside drawer, revealing a box of old Polaroids he'd stashed away months ago. He just couldn't stomach throwing them away.

Taehyung had said, "burn 'em all." So Jimin hid them in a dark corner instead.

Jimin returned to his spot on the floor, box rested carefully in his lap. He pulled out part of a stack, the first image depicting himself at a bar a couple blocks from his old apartment, Yoongi's jacket slung over his shoulders.

Jimin sifted through them with hesitant fingers, growing weaker every time he saw Yoongi's gummy smile reflected back at him.

There they were at an amusement park, wearing ridiculous hats. At the beach, thick sunscreen smeared across Jimin's cheek. In a hotel, one of the few times Yoongi took Jimin overseas—Seattle, if Jimin remembered correctly.

Yoongi, posing in front of a temple in Hokkaido.

Jimin, ice cream on his nose and a setting sun behind him.

Together, on the set of “Angel.”

Jimin's fingertip ghosted over the curve of Yoongi's nose in that picture, lungs stuttering over the warmth in Yoongi's smile. He was looking at Jimin while Jimin's focus was on the camera. Yoongi's eyes were half-lidded, expression reverent—full of so much love.

Jimin set the photos back down slowly, overwhelmed. He hadn't taken the time to really remember what they had been until now. Hadn't let himself consider how much he missed it. It was hitting him too hard, leaving him wheezing and shaky.

It was the emotions, Jimin told himself as he reached for his phone. It was that awful, awful loneliness gnawing at his gut, eating him alive.

Jimin only hesitated for a second.

He pulled up his contacts, scrolling through until this thumb hovered over Yoongi. It was eleven in the evening. Perhaps a bit too late for most people, but knowing Yoongi, Jimin figured he was still awake—probably squinting at some monitor, honestly.

Jimin worried his lip. This could be a bad idea. Yoongi could be well over him by now. For all Jimin knew, Yoongi could be seeing someone else. He had no shortage of admirers. Yet there was a tug at his heart that urged him to take the leap. Between matters of the heart and mind, Jimin knew which to listen to. He pressed dial.

He stared out his window at the dotted skyline as the call rang, watching the red light of a plane flicker in the distance. Jimin half expected Yoongi to not answer, either from preoccupation or a lack of willingness to speak to his ex. Jimin would understand the latter; he had been the one to end things, after all.

Yet the ringing ended, Yoongi's gruff voice filling the other end. "Jimin?" He asked, sounding tired.

Jimin shut his eyes, suspended in disbelief. He had to remind himself to answer, heart fluttering beneath his ribs. "Hyung," he said, like a breath of fresh air.

"It's late," Yoongi noted.

"Yeah, sorry—" Jimin stumbled over his words.

"Been a while," Yoongi continued, a soft edge to his tone. "How've you been?"

"I've seen better days," Jimin said quietly. "I mean, work's good. Maybe too good? I've been drowning myself in it lately."

"No surprise there," Yoongi murmured.

Jimin huffed out a breathless chuckle. "Yeah... And what about you? Congrats on the album, by the way. It's amazing, hyung. Not that I expected any less."

"Thanks. Things have been fine. The usual. Postponing any tours until Joon's album drops. Just got a concert tomorrow," Yoongi listed off. "It's only been a day, but reception to the album's been good. Selling even better than we thought."

"You marketed it well. Hair and all," Jimin said.

He heard Yoongi laugh. "Mm, 'spose so."

A silence lulled between them, Jimin too scared to break the warm atmosphere.

"Jimin," Yoongi finally coaxed. "Why are you really calling after six months of nothing?"

Jimin inhaled, expression pinched. It was now or never. A rejection couldn't hurt him at this point, Jimin convinced himself, hoping if he repeated it enough he'd believe it.

"First, I was gonna ask if you're in town, but it sounds like you are," Jimin began, receiving no protest. "A-and if so, I was wondering if... If you'd want to get coffee sometime. When you're free, of course. I know you're always so busy."

"I'll make time," Yoongi said almost immediately, a shock to Jimin's system.

It was ironic how easily Yoongi said that, considering how much they could've remedied their relationship with that sentiment before Jimin had the chance to end it. Maybe, Jimin thought hopefully, Yoongi wanted this too.

"Really?" Jimin whispered. "You don't have to, hyung."

"But I'm going to. Tomorrow's blocked out, but I can manage the day after. Can I text you a time later?" He said, cautious on the last line.

Jimin exhaled. "That'd be great."

"Great. I'll see you soon then, Angel?"

Jimin's heart stuttered at the familiar name. He felt warm to the tips of his fingers. "Yeah. See you soon."

<< 

Jimin and Yoongi stumbled into the latter's apartment, space dim and quiet amidst the dead of the night. Jimin giggled as he kicked off his shoes, unsteadily wandering toward the living room sofa.

He flopped down on the cushions and sunk in, relishing over how comfortable Yoongi's furniture was. Worth the expense, Jimin figured.

"Hyung, pour me some—" he hiccupped, "—whiskey."

"Angel, you're drunk enough as-is," Yoongi chuckled, pulling off his coat and following after Jimin. He settled close to Jimin's side, hip to hip while he threw an arm over the younger's shoulder.

They'd been together for three months now, and Jimin could very confidently say they were in the honeymoon phase. Yoongi could do no wrong in his eyes. The man was so sweet and charming, like a damn dream come true.

"Silly," Jimin said, poking Yoongi's nose. "I can handle much more."

"Oh, you're going to love tomorrow's hangover," Yoongi jokingly crooned. He was a little less wasted than Jimin.

"But 's worth it, huh?"

"Why d'you say that?"

"'Cause you called me a cute drunk. Said I'm giggly and happy," Jimin purred.

"Baby, you're cute all the time," Yoongi said with a shake of his head. "You've always got the sweetest smile. So funny and kind. My pretty angel."

Jimin looked up at him with a hazy reverence. "I like when you call me pretty," Jimin murmured.

"Yeah?" Yoongi drawled, meeting Jimin's eyes, gaze heavy.

"Mm. Makes me think that you could be mine," Jimin's voice dropped into a whisper, words some sort of deeply held confession.

Yoongi grabbed Jimin's hip and shifted him onto his lap, watched as Jimin melted into him, arms finding themselves around the elder's neck. "I already am yours," Yoongi said quietly, observing Jimin's reaction, the widening of his eyes, his pink lips parting.

"I don't deserve you," Jimin mumbled. He pressed his hand to Yoongi's cheek, thumb skimming across his bottom lip. "You're so gentle and smart and witty. Why should I get you to myself?"

"Because you deserve the world and more," Yoongi said firmly. His palm smoothed over the curve of Jimin's waist. He tilted his head, listed intently while he smoothed his hand back down and squeezed the firm flesh of Jimin's hip. Heard Jimin gasp oh so softly. "I'll give you anything you want. Everything, if you'll let me."

"Why?" Jimin uttered, expression open and vulnerable.

"Because I love you," Yoongi said simply, as if that was all the explanation required.

Jimin's lashes fluttered as he blinked down at Yoongi. "You love me?" He echoed weakly.

"I love you," Yoongi repeated.

"I-I love you too," Jimin said, voice wavering. He leaned into Yoongi, pressed a chaste kiss to his lips. Again, deeper and firmer. Again, lips parted, breath mingled.

He pulled back an inch. "Say my name."

"Jimin," Yoongi murmured, eyes hooded.

Jimin shook his head. "Say my name," he spoke slowly.

Something flickered behind Yoongi's sharp gaze. He threaded his fingers into the hair at Jimin's nape and guided him into a searing kiss. They parted, Yoongi's lips ghosting over Jimin's.

"Angel."

>> 

Jimin checked his reflection in his phone before he approached the hole-in-the-wall coffee shop, more nervous than he'd been in a very long time. It felt like a first date all over again, even though Jimin knew, logically, it was only Yoongi.

Jimin fixed his hair for the nth time and took a steadying breath. He walked the remaining few steps to the door and tugged it open, little bell chiming as he entered the warmth of the café. He unwrapped the scarf around his neck and tugged the sleeves of his sweater up over his hands.

Jimin glanced around the corner and spotted a lone figure sitting in the back, black mask covering half his face, bleach blonde fringe falling into his eyes. Yoongi.

Jimin approached nervously, sliding into the seat across from him. Yoongi looked up from his phone and pulled the mask down, a small smile adorning his lips. "Jimin," he quietly greeted.

"Hi, hyung," Jimin murmured shyly.

Yoongi pushed a cup across the table for Jimin. Hot chocolate, Jimin noted as he wrapped his hands around the warm cup.

"You still off caffeine?"

"Yeah," Jimin hummed. He dipped his finger into the whipped cream and licked it off. "You still only drinking americanos?"

Yoongi held up his own cup with a "you caught me" look. Jimin smiled weakly and tilted his head.

"Have you been eating well? Resting up?" He resisted the urge to reach over and run his thumb along the dark circles under Yoongi's eyes. He looked so tired.

"I try," Yoongi shrugged. "You know, I get... caught up in everything else."

"No one around to get on your ass about taking care of yourself?"

"Ah, no. Just me, unfortunately," Yoongi chuckled dryly. "But what about you? Staying healthy?"

"For the most part," Jimin replied. He worried his lip, a bit saddened at their small talk. It was hard taking such a huge step back after their former level of intimacy. Jimin knew the connection was still there. Yet he wasn't sure if it was the best idea to tap into it.

They lapsed into silence. Jimin sipped at his drink, heart heavy and urging him to get closer, to touch Yoongi like he used to—to piece them back together again.

"Jimin," Yoongi said then, hesitating. "I... want to apologize."

Jimin blinked at him, quiet and patient. He fiddled with the sleeves of his sweater.

"I didn't treat you right towards the end. I acted like the breakup came as some sort of surprise, but that wasn't fair of me. Clearly you'd been hurting for a while, and I should've helped fix it. I should've gotten my head out of my ass and... and done something."

"Hyung," Jimin sighed. "You were focused on your career. I don't think it was fair of me to assume that you had time for the kind of relationship I wanted."

Yoongi shook his head. "I could've made time. With anyone else, yeah, maybe a breakup would be the best option. But you..." Yoongi bit the inside of his cheek, voice low. "You're the first and only person I've loved this deeply. I wanted to marry you, for fuck's sake."

Jimin exhaled shakily and shut his eyes for a moment. "I wanted to marry you, too," he admitted. "But life doesn't always work out that way."

There was a clatter of utensils behind them, another chime of the bell as a group of patrons stepped out. The warm air was creeping up Jimin’s neck, every breath feeling like a lungful of steam.

Yoongi tapped the table, in evident consideration.

Jimin finally looked back at him, jaw tight with restraint.

"I mean, you're right," Yoongi said, glancing away. "I've had a lot of time to think about it, though.” He sucked in a sharp breath, then pressed his lips together. “I was really lost when you cut me off. Couldn't do much of anything for the first month. Joon had to drag me out of the house to get me to do anything. I hadn't realized how integral you were to my life.”

He blinked rapidly, lost in memories, possibly as overwhelmed as Jimin. "Things just didn't feel the same without you. I couldn't go out alone, couldn't do the simplest things without being reminded of you. Definitely couldn't date.

“I was forced to deal with this new reality, and accept that yeah, I'd been pretty shitty. God, I wish I'd just listened to you sooner."

Jimin licked his lips, eyes watery. "I've missed you too, Yoon," he whispered. "So much. But I also think the distance was good for us. Six months apart is plenty of time to reevaluate everything. Where we are and where we should be going. The kind of partner we need in life."

Yoongi nodded, expression solemn. "I've learned a very hard lesson," he sighed. "I know to do better now." Yoongi paused, brows drawn as he struggled with his next words. "I want to... ask you for another chance. But I have no clue if that's something you'd ever want."

Jimin inhaled deeply. He shrugged off his doubts and reached across the table to grasp Yoongi's hand. The elder looked up him, eyes a bit wider. Yoongi's hand was cold, Jimin noted. Jimin rubbed his thumb across the knuckles with a frown.

"You're my soulmate, hyung," Jimin said firmly. "I keep thinking about how much it hurt the first time around, and don't really like to imagine how badly we could crash all over again. But then I remember... I remember how right we felt together. How perfectly we clicked. I know there must have been some sort of fate involved when you reached out to me," he said quietly with a wet chuckle. Jimin tried to hold himself together; he couldn't break down and cry in this damn cafe.

"I know there's not a chance I'll ever stop loving you," Jimin whispered, eyes hooded as he stared at their hands, the contrast between them. "And this is what love does to you, huh? Makes you too hopeful that things could turn out differently. That we could really be better this time."

Yoongi was silent, cautious, clinging onto Jimin's words with creeping desperation. He didn't want to let Jimin go again.

Jimin bit his lip and heaved a sigh. "If," he murmured, "we tried again, w-would you be able to take it slow?"

"Angel," Yoongi breathed, leaning forward. "You know I'd do anything for you."

Jimin shut his eyes, tears slipping past and trailing down his flushed cheeks. Jimin slowly twined their fingers and brought Yoongi's hand to his lips, kissing him softly.

"Okay," Jimin whispered. "Okay. Let's try again."

<< 

They agreed to meet in public for their first date, at a park in the early spring.

Jimin spent hours that morning getting ready, jittery yet so very excited. He flitted about his room, messing with his appearance until it was time to set out. The air outside was cool, yet the sunshine against his back worked wonders for the anxious chill running along his skin.

When Jimin reached the meetup spot, wrapped in a thick coat pulled up to his chin, he glanced down at his phone over and over to ensure it was the right place. He shifted on his feet, brushed his hair back, pinched his arm to remind himself this was real. He began pacing a bit, too much excitement pent up within him.

And then Jimin saw him, hesitating mid-stride. Dressed in black, mask covering the bottom half of his face. Yoongi looked up, a glimmer of a grin in his eyes. Jimin's heart stuttered, a smile of his own blooming on his lips; he waved.

Jimin took that slow, initial step, walking toward the man he'd someday fall in love with.