Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Jamais Vu

/zham•ay voo/

definition

A French borrowing meaning "never seen", is the phenomenon of experiencing a situation that one recognizes in some fashion, but that nonetheless seems novel and unfamiliar.

“You WHAT?” Taehyung’s almond eyes are blown wide in shock. Jimin winces, shushing his best friend. He looks at his bedroom door, listening for any signs of his parents being woken up by the noise. The rest of the house remains silent. It was at times like this that he regrets being a guy in his twenties who hasn’t moved out of his parents’ home.

Jimin bites his lip, getting up from his desk chair and moving to his bed to join Taehyung. 

“I kept in touch with Jungkook using your name and now he’s coming back from America for two weeks and he thinks it was you who’s been exchanging emails with him for the last eleven years.”

Taehyung’s gaze is intense, “Yeah, that’s what I was afraid you said.”

“Okay, I know what I did was stupid, but please let me explain.” Jimin plays up his puppy eyes to the max. He’s created quite the problem for himself that he can’t get out of. Not on his own at least. He needs his best friend.

Taehyung sighs, grabbing a pillow to hug and getting comfortable against the headboard, “Yeah okay go ahead.” 

“Right, so um you remember the day Jungkook and his family left for America?” 

Taehyung scratches his forearm, head tilted as if trying to recall the blurry memory from their childhood, “Kind of…?”

“Well our parents and nana were all saying bye, and the three of us were saying our own goodbyes a bit away. And I remember him hugging you and asking if you would stay in touch. And you said ‘of course’, but you didn’t have access to a computer or an email, so I said you could use mine,” Jimin picks at a hangnail on his index finger, “He was so excited, though he was crying again as soon as they had to go board.” 

“Oh…” Taehyung’s brows furrowed.

“Yeah and then he sent the first email. And I kept reminding you to reply, but you…” 

“I was an asshole,” Taehyung finished, having recalled how Jimin would tell him to reply to the younger and Taehyung would convince him he would... after a round of video games or a trip to the skate park or grabbing ice cream. He might’ve even used too much homework as an excuse once. The more he put it off, the bigger the chore it seemed. Eventually Jimin stopped asking, and he could finally relax, letting it slip from his mind completely. Perhaps Taehyung felt a teeny bit bad. 

“No! Of course, not Taetae. We were kids. You were… excitable,” Jimin smiled remembering spontaneous dance parties and adventures in their backyards.

Taehyung giggled, “You’re just saying that to suck up because you used my name to reply.” 

Jimin felt blood rushing to his cheeks. That wasn’t true, but he had never been able to stay calm at being accused and always reacted like this. Which created even more problems for him because people would assume it meant he was guilty. 

“Tae…” he whined pouting. Taehyung laughed. “Yeah yeah I know. It’s actually ‘cuz you love me.” 

Taehyung got a plushie to the face for that one eliciting more giggles. Jimin yawns. It was getting pretty late.

“Why didn’t you sign off using your own name?” Taehyung adjusted things so he was hugging the pillow and the yellow plushie, “Afterall you were the one writing to him?”

Jimin shrugs, getting under the covers, “He didn’t write to me.” 

Taehyung turns off the lamp on the night table, dousing the room in darkness. He gets into bed with Jimin.  “So now what?”

“He’s only coming for two weeks. You have to pretend you wrote all those letters for two weeks... He’s so sweet, Tae. I can't-I feel like I’ve carried on this lie for too long. I don’t think I can explain it to him. I’m so sorry Tae.”

Taehyung turns on his side, cuddling into his friend’s side. “Nah… We got this. You don’t have to worry, my friend.”

Jimin sighs contently as Taehyung nuzzles into his neck. “Thanks, Taetae.”

“Anytime Chiminie, goodnight…”

“Goodnight.”

-------------------------------------

[11 years ago]

To: [email protected]

Subject: HI TAE-HYUNG!!!

Hi Tae hyung!!

It’s Jungkook! We’ve been here for a week and I already miss you so much :(

I miss our play dates :( I miss everything :( 

Things are weird here.

It’s so sunny all the time. It’s pretty. And the ocean is so blue. It might be prettier than the sea back home ha ha ha.

I’m starting school on Monday. It’s going to be scary. I wouldn’t know anyone. And you know I can’t talk to strangers. Do you think I can make friends? I don’t want to be alone.

I really hope someone will want to be my friend.

But even if they don’t you’ll still be my friend right?

I’ll be waiting for your email!!!!

Bye!

Jeon Jungkook   

To: [email protected]

Subject: Hi Kookie!!

Hi Jungkookie!

You’re lucky it’s sunny over there. It’s raining here and we can’t go to the park.

Sorry I couldn’t email earlier.

I hope your first school day wasn’t scary. I think anyone would be lucky to be your friend. You’re so nice. Like that time you saved that ladybug from getting squished!

And you’re so good at everything!! You should show people your drawings! They’re so COOL!

Everyone will want to be your friend!!

If they don’t want to then they’re stupid.

I’ll always be your friend forever!!!

OH! And I miss you too!! It’s so weird not to see you every day :(

Bye bye

Taehyung

To: [email protected]

Subject: HI TAE-HYUNG

I CAN’T BELIEVE YOU WROTE BACK

I WAS SCARED YOU FORGOT ABOUT ME

hehehe

I’m so happy you wrote back seriously.

First day of school was really scary. I had a hard time keeping up with what others were saying because they were speaking so fast and my English isn’t good.

But I met this guy Alex who invited me to play soccer during lunch break and I scored five goals! Everyone wanted me on their team afterwards >.<

I’ve been eating lunch with Alex. He’s nice.

It’s really cool not having to wear uniforms. It’s like we’re in a comic.

I miss you. And Jimin hyung. He likes soccer. He’d have fun with Alex and me during lunch.

Tell him I say hi!

Byeee

Kookie

…

To: [email protected]

Subject: lamb skewers hehe

Hi kookie

I met this really nice hyung who invited me to his parents’ restaurant. We had lamb skewers. Your favourite! I think they’ll always remind me of you.

You really love lamb skewers, huh? hehe. Can you find lamb skewers there?

If not, when you come to visit, hyung will treat you to as many lamb skewers as you want!

Bye,

Hyung

…

To: [email protected]

Subject: wassupppp

hey hyung,

Answer to your question: in my ideal future I’m married to someone who loves me, understands me, wants to spend the rest of his life with me. We have a dog. A rescue dog or from the pound or something. I am a graphic designer and work from home where one of the rooms is my studio. Maybe… if my partner wants it too, we’d even adopt.

My Question: right back at you, what does your ideal future look like?

I’m still struggling with math, but I think I’m going to take your advice and go see the teacher afterschool for extra help.

Taekwondo is going well; I’m training for my second degree blackbelt promotion.

I’m glad I chose photography as an elective. I’m learning so much. My term project came together nicely. I’ll send it to you once it’s graded.

How’s your choreo for your showcase coming along? With how much you’re practicing, I know you’re going to do well. So, don’t stress kay? You’ll do your best, and that’s more than anyone can ask for.

Actually… you know what? There’s this ritual I do before a belt promotion. I sit down on the floor with my eyes closed. Take a deep breath. Unclench my fists, relax my shoulders and any other muscles that have tensed up. And then I sing this tune I came up with a few times, until my nerves have calmed down a bit. I’m recording the tune and attaching it as an audio clip.

You can try to do it if you feel like you’re going to freak out :))))

audio clip 📎

Later,

Kookie

To: [email protected]

Subject: heyyy

Hey kookie,

Answer: I guess in my ideal future, I’m living with a partner who loves me in a little house of our own. We own a cat, and maybe we’ve adopted two children too. I have a job that I enjoy. Monthly dinners with our friends and family over. Watching movies under the stars in the summer. Cuddled together, with game nights and hot chocolate during the winters. I mean with all this in mind, I don’t care if none of it comes true, but if I could wish for just one thing, it would be to be surrounded by people who love and support me.

Question: what’s one thing you want to try that you haven’t already?

Your voice is beautiful, kookie. You should consider accepting the offer to join that choir group you were mentioning. That tune has been stuck in my head all week, and I hum it whenever I feel like my thoughts are getting too much. It really does help calm me down. Thank you. I’ll be sure to use your ritual before my performance. I’ll need it.

I don’t know why I freak out so much before I go on stage or like when I am about to write an exam. Once the music starts, it’s like everything melts away and my thoughts hone into the performance. Once I flip open the first page of the test, I calm down and focus on each problem. But it’s the time beforehand, the anxiety of waiting that trips me up. I swear I lose brain cells from all the stressing. keke it’s ridiculous isn’t it?

Goodluck on your math test x

Hyung

… 

To: [email protected]

Subject: I GOT IN HYUNG AHHHHHHHH

HYUNG HYUNG HYUNG

I GOT IN

I’M CYRUNG

I HAD TO TELL YOU AS SOON AS I GOT THE LETTER

I GOT INTO UC BERKLEY FOR GRAPHIC DESIGN

GOD I CAN’T BELIEVE I GOT IN

IF YOU HADN’T PUSHED ME INTO APPLYING OHMYGOD

Hyung thank you. Thank you thank you thank you.

I really didn’t think it would be worth applying because the chances of me getting in were so low, but I’M SO GLAD I DID.

I JUST FEEL LIKE SCREAMING AHHHHHHHH

I promise you I’m going to work so hard!!! For you! For me!! (for my parents too hehe)

Answer: my favourite food to eat when I’m down is kimbap. I dunno, it cheers me up for some reason. OH! And banana milk. Banana milk works every time.

Question: What are you feeling right now? And why?

Thank you for being my rock, hyung. x

Kookie

To: [email protected]

Subject: YOU GOT INNNN I’M SO PROUD

CONGRATULATIONS KOOKIE I KNEW YOU COULD DO IT

HYUNG KNEW IT!!!

Your portfolio was amazing. Of course, they couldn’t pass up on you. I’m so proud x

You always work hard, bunny.

Go celebrate!! You deserve it!

Remember I’ll always be cheering you on!!

Hyung’s your biggest fan kekeke

Bye Bunny

P.s. right now I'm feeling happy and proud... but if I'm being honest, I feel a little sad too... I wish I could give you a hug or be there to celebrate this with you...

Question: What are you most looking forward to about uni? 

…

To: [email protected]

Subject: EXCITING NEWS!!! AHHHHHHHHH

Hey hyung ;)))))

I hope this email finds you before my parents call your grandma and Jimin hyung’s parents kekeke

We’re coming back!!!! AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

…well only for two weeks, but still!!!

After all these years, I can’t believe I’ll see you again.

I had always hoped we’d get to meet again, and now it’s happening and it feels surreal.

I’m feeling so many things that I couldn’t even explain them if I wanted to.

I will see you hyung. We’ll be able to talk face to face. I understand you feel insecure and aren’t comfortable sending pictures, but I would be lying if I said I haven’t been dying to know what you look like now, what you sound like, what you’re like in person.

My parents are just as excited keke! They’re already planning a trip to that house by the beach we used to rent when we were kids.

Honestly, I don’t care what we’re doing. I just can’t wait to see you!

I’ve missed you hyung.

See you May 1^st,

Kookie

------------------------

It’s the day of the Jeons arrival, and Jimin, Jimin’s parents, Taehyung, and Taehyung’s nana all decided to go to the airport to pick them up.

Just like that day 11 years ago, Jimin and Taehyung are standing a bit off from the elders. Jimin is doing last minute cramming with Taehyung, trying to learn as much as he can about Jungkook. If Taehyung has to pretend to have written all those emails, he needed to at least know the basics. Like where Jungkook goes to school, what he studies, his favourite food, foods that he hates…

Jimin gnaws on his bottom lip. At some point Jimin had created a professional email, checking the dance machine one (what was child Jimin thinking?) for the sole purpose of communicating with Jungkook. He had considered giving Taehyung the password to the account, but there had been too many emails for him to be able to read through everything anyways. And something about the idea of someone else, even if it was his platonic soulmate, reading through their exchanges made Jimin’s stomach churn.

“We’ll be fine, Chim,” Taehyung grabs his hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. Jimin nods, staring up at his best friend. Taehyung was everything Jimin was not, and Jimin had thought he had accepted that fact long ago.

However, today Taehyung seemed to be looming over him. The five-centimeter height difference seemed to have multiplied. And that wasn't even close to being the end of it. Not only was Taehyung tall, he was built like a model, with a face so beautiful people on the streets would turn around to watch him pass. And for the cherry on top, Taehyung had a matchless personality; he was kind, loyal, charming.

No, it was foolish for someone like Jimin to even think of competing against someone like Taehyung… His chest felt heavy. What was the point of spending an hour that morning deciding what to wear and meticulously doing his hair? Jimin was starting to feel sick.

“Hey, I think I need to go to the bathroom.”

Taehyung nods, looking up from his phone.

“Wait,” Taehyung calls after him, “I think they’re here.”

Jimin whirls around. Sure enough, the Jeons were making their way out of the arrival terminal to the Parks and nana Kim. Loud greetings fill the place. Jimin’s eyes immediately latch onto him.

Jeon Jungkook.

Jimin’s breath catches. He didn’t know what he was expecting, but nothing came close to the real thing. Jeon Jungkook was tall. Well he looked tall in front of his tiny mother who was walking beside him. He was no longer the small child with baby fat clinging to his cheeks. Jungkook had become a man. His jaw, sharp. He had grown into his nose. Yet amongst all the unfamiliar, his big round doe-eyes remained the same.

“Oh wow,” Taehyung mutters, and frankly Jimin couldn’t agree more.

Jimin’s mind goes blank as Jungkook catches sight of them and starts walking towards them. His heart is growing crazy in his chest.  

It’s as Jungkook is walking towards them, that Jimin’s heart sinks. The younger isn’t looking at him. His eyes are locked onto someone behind him, and it doesn’t take much to know who it was that Jungkook couldn’t look away from.

Maybe it was his wishful thinking, but for a moment, as he passes Jimin, it seems as if Jungkook’s steps halter. Jimin's breath stills, but then the moment is over and Jungkook takes the last few steps to Taehyung. And the last flame of hope in him that foolishly wished for some fairy-tale miracle, goes out.

This was reality. Park Jimin was never and will never be the one that Jungkook wanted.

Chapter Text

“Taetae hyung! I’ve missed you!” Taehyung didn’t have a chance to reply, before Jungkook was engulfing him in a hug.

Taehyung chuckled, patting the younger on his back, “I missed you too, Ju-er-kookie.”

Jungkook stepped back, hands still gripping Taehyung’s shoulders, “Woah hyung, you’re just as tall as me!”

Taehyung offered his signature boxy grin. His eyes met Jimin’s over Jungkook’s shoulder. “Oh, Kookie, this is Jimin. You remember him, right?”

Jimin steeled his nerves and put on his best smile, yet when Jungkook turned around he was still stunned.

Jungkook stared at him.

Oh…he really doesn’t remember me…

“Jimin hyung! How come you didn’t get any taller?”

Jimin’s jaw dropped again, but for a different reason.

He realized he hadn’t responded yet when Jungkook’s smirk got bigger (and hotter-).

Jimin scoffed, “Welcome back, brat.”

Jungkook and Taehyung laughed. Jimin rolled his eyes, “Let’s go.”

“Hello, Mr. and Mrs. Jeon!” Jimin greets them with side hugs and big smiles.

“Oh, Jiminie!” Mrs. Jeon greets cupping his face, “I’m going to cry. You’re all grown up. So cute.”

Jimin giggles, gently pulling away from her hands. “How was your flight?”

“Tiring,” Mr. Jeon grins, placing a hand around his wife’s waist.

“Well, let’s go home then so you can rest,” Jimin grabs two of the suitcase handles, rolling them to his side so he can carry them.

“Hello,” Taehyung greets as he and Jungkook join the rest of them.

“Oh my!” Mrs. Jeon claps her hands together, “Look at you! My goodness, Taehyung has become a man! And so handsome!”

“Well of course! That’s my grandson!” Taehyung’s grandma pats his cheek. Taehyung smiles abashedly.

Jimin’s father, Park Jisung, laughs grabbing the other two suitcases, “Alright alright, let’s start heading out. Jimin’s mama has been working all day to make a feast and I don’t think I can wait any longer.”

Park Saeri slaps her husband’s chest lightly, “You’re ridiculous.”

“So I love my beautiful wife’s cooking, sue me,” his father argues as Saeri pushes him towards the exit.

“Let’s go,” she says laughing.

--------

“Jimin? Jiminie?” his mother grabs his shoulder. Jimin startles, turning away and pretending he hadn’t been staring at Taehyung and Jungkook. The two had been talking ever since the airport, and had only stopped briefly during dinner when the adults fired question after question at Jungkook from how his studies were going to if he had someone, he was interested in.

Against his better judgment, Jimin had held his breath waiting for an answer that left him with a nasty taste in his mouth. Maybe, Jungkook had said before glancing at the boy sitting beside him. Unfortunately for him, everyone at the table could read him like a little child, exchanging amused looks with one another. This included Taehyung who had blushed and stuffed his face with a giant spoonful of rice.

“Oh, sorry mom,” Jimin turns to her with a blinding smile.

She frowns, glancing behind him and then back to him, “Are you okay?”

“Mn,” Jimin nods. She doesn’t reply immediately.

“Take the extra comforters and pillows from the hall closet to your room. You can share the bed with Jungkook. Inhwa and Sungwoo will take the guest room.”

Jimin gapes, “Uh-I oh he’s-my room?”

His mother raises a brow, “You knew they were staying with us. Did you think I would make the poor boy take the sofa when your bed is plenty big?”

“No-I-okay,” Jimin squeaks out, running away before his mom could say anything else.

Taehyung finds him rummaging through the hall closet.

“Hey Chim, grandma and I are going to head out.”

Jimin pulls out a large blue comforter, “Oh okay, Taetae. Um-did everything go alright with him?”

Taehyung is leaning against the wall beside the closet, “Yeah I think so. He brought up the emails, but I was able to deflect the conversation to something different.”

“And he doesn’t suspect anything,” Jimin asks quietly, moving to stand beside Taehyung so they are both staring at the painting hanging on the opposite wall together. It was a gift from Taehyung. He had painted it in his first year at uni. It was one of Jimin’s favourite pieces. It was an abstract piece, hard to put into words, but it made Jimin feel relaxed. Something about tracing his eyes over the blend of colours and shapes always calmed Jimin’s nerves.

“As far as I can tell, I don’t think so.” Taehyung places a hand on Jimin’s shoulder, “We’ll be fine, my friend. Don’t stress over it.”

Jimin nods, despite his heart still feeling heavy.

“See you tomorrow?” Taehyung smiles. Jimin smiles back, “See you tomorrow.”

Jimin screams entering his room, not expecting Jungkook to be sitting on his bed rummaging through his luggage. Jimin drops the comforter, clutching his chest. 

Jungkook breaks into laughter.

“Shut up,” Jimin grumbles picking up the comforter and throwing it at the younger.

Jungkook catches it easily, putting it down next to him. “Thanks, hyung.” He’s still laughing.

Jimin nods, still pouting. Jungkook grins, “Come on hyung. That was hilarious.”

“Sure-”

“Your scream was so loud and high pitched and the way you dropped the comforter-” And he was laughing again.

“Oh my god, Jungkook. It wasn’t even that funny.” Jimin stares as Jungkook fell to his knees clutching his stomach. He might’ve even had tears in his eyes. Jimin couldn’t help the small smile that broke through his angry facade.

“You’re ridiculous.” Jimin shakes his head, going into his bathroom to find a new toothbrush for the younger.

“You can have this red one-HOLY SHIT-GEEZES JUNGKOOK DON’T SNEAK UP ON ME!” Jimin smacks Jungkook’s chest, who’s standing in the bathroom doorway, one fist covering his face and looking like he was one breath away from bursting into laughter again. There were tears streaming from his eyes. Goddamn tears.

“I-Jungkook you need sleep. It’s late. You’re tired and obviously going crazy.”

Jungkook wipes the tears from his eyes. Finally, having calmed down a little, he smiles sheepishly at his hyung who’s watching in amusement.

“Yeah I think you’re right.” He scratches the back of his head.

Jimin hands him the toothbrush. “Here, you can use the bathroom first.”

Jungkook offers a thanks, as Jimin leaves the bathroom.

Jimin picks Jungkook’s suitcase off of the bed, putting it down beside his dresser. He moves his duvet to one side and opens up the comforter on the other side. Recalling Jungkook’s lively laughter, he shakes his head fondly, “Ridiculous.”

He begins humming a familiar melody without thinking before stopping abruptly, looking at the closed bathroom door. However, the shower is on; it’s probably really difficult to hear anything over it and the closed door. His tensed shoulders slacken.

The bathroom door opens. Jimin looks up from the book he’s reading and does a double take. Jungkook walks out in a towel. Jimin’s towel. Nothing, but a towel. As in he’s not wearing any clothes. Just a towel. No clothes. Only towel.

Jimin gulps, looking away back to his book.

“Sorry, for using your towel. I forgot to ask for one before I showered and I really needed to shower,” Jungkook was scratching the back of his head again, and oh sweet baby ducklings. Jimin was trying to ignore how clearly built the younger was, but he was only human. He had his limits, and the way Jungkook’s biceps flexed while he did that made it really hard for Jimin to look at anything else.

“No, no that’s okay. Sorry I should’ve remembered to put one out for you. I’ll leave one out for you to use tomorrow.” Jimin’s proud that his voice comes out normal, not betraying any of the strain he’s feeling.

“Thanks, hyung!” Jungkook’s smile’s so damn cute, Jimin couldn’t help smiling. Jungkook spots his luggage, squatting down with his back to Jimin to take out his night clothes. Jimin’s jaw drops.

“I-I’m going to use the bathroom,” and with that Jimin escapes into the safe haven.

When Jimin exits the bathroom, Jungkook is already in bed. Tucked in, and thankfully, clothed. Jimin turns off the light, making his way to the other side of the bed.

“Ouch-f*ck.” Jimin had stubbed his toe on the corner of what he suspected was Jungkook’s suitcase.

“Are you okay?” Jungkook’s worried voice sounded from the bed, there was rustling as his darkened silhouette sat up in bed.

“Yeah yeah, don’t worry. I just stubbed my toe on your suitcase.”

There’s a low chuckle, “Sorry about that, but… are you always this clumsy?” The amusement in his voice is clear as day.

“Hmph,” Jimin crawls into bed, laying onto his back, acutely aware of the body next to his, “Do you always laugh this much? So much that you start crying?”

Jungkook laughs again, “Touché.”

They fall into silence, yet maybe it was the fact that Jimin was thinking too much, but the silence felt tense.

Jimin knew Jungkook could get really shy with new people, especially when keeping up with conversations, he had mentioned it in his emails on various occasions. He had gone through a period, when he had just started high school, where even in his emails he had become withdrawn. He had mentioned how hard it was for him to make friends since his best friend had moved to a different state right before entering high school.  

That’s when Jimin had started their weekly question tradition. Something simple and easy. Eventually, having something to focus on, Jungkook’s emails become longer again. He would write more and more, and Jimin would feel relieved seeing that a bit of the old Jungkook was finally returning.

School had been his fight alone, but Jimin was proud the day he had received the email telling him about a new boy he had met who seemed standoffish at first but was really nice and warmed up to Jungkook in no time. Jimin had felt so happy his dongsaeng had found another friend.

“Are you excited to be back?” Jimin asks into the night.

“Yes. Very,” Jungkook’s voice is soft.

“What are you looking forward to the most?”

“Oh, I can’t wait to go to the beach house. I know California is filled with beaches, but there’s something different and comforting about the beaches here.”

Jimin hums, “I know what you mean.”

“But honestly, I’m probably the most excited about spending time with Taetae hyung.”

Jimin can’t find the right words to reply with. He had always been terrible at deliberately lying, and this was going to be his downfall in this whole shebang. Luckily, Jungkook continues. “Did he tell you how we’ve been contact since I left.”

“Yeah,” Jimin cringes at his short reply.

“Yeah I guess it’s just different in person…”

“What do you mean?”

“Nothing nothing... It’s just I guess communicating through emails is different than in person. I don’t know what I was expecting, but the real Taetae hyung surprised me.”

“Good surprised or bad?” Jimin asks with bated breath.

“Definitely not bad,” Jungkook answers immediately.

Jimin forces himself to reply, “Correct answer. He’s my best friend, you know. So, I would have to take some measures if you had answered incorrectly.”

Jungkook laughs, “Okay hyung.”

“I’m being serious.” Just to prove his point, he jabs into the darkness, making contact with the side of Jungkook’s stomach. The younger yelps. “Hey!”

Jimin giggles. “Don’t underestimate me, Jeon.”

“…Understood.”

Jimin laughs, “Mm good boy.”

They’re silent again, but this time there’s an ease to it.

Jimin thinks Jungkook has fallen asleep until he speaks up, “I don’t.”

“Hm?”

“I don’t usually laugh this much.”

“Sleep deprivation is dangerous kids.”

Jungkook snorts.

“Well to be fair, I’m not usually this clumsy.”

Jungkook laughs mockingly, “Yeah okay, why do I have a hard time believing that?”

“Wah! What a brat.” Jimin couldn’t see him, but he imagines he’s grinning.

“Goodnight, brat.” Jimin tugs his duvet around him more securely, curling up around his pillow to sleep.

“Goodnight, hyung.”

Chapter Text

Jimin shuts off his alarm, looking to make sure it hadn’t woken up Jungkook, except Jungkook’s side of the bed is empty.

The bedroom door opens, and Jungkook shuffles in with a plate of leftovers from last night, and a bottle of strawberry milk. He shuts the door with his foot.

Jungkook freezes when he sees Jimin up, “Oh sorry, did I wake you?”

Jimin’s groggy morning brain is having a hard time making sense of things.

“Sorry, is it okay if I eat in here? I usually eat in my room, but I understand if you’re not okay with it. I mean it’s your room, I–”

“Jungkook, it’s fine, go ahead.” Jimin rubbed the sleep out of his eyes, “And no you didn’t wake me up. I had an alarm set.”

“Why?” Jungkook settles the food on Jimin’s desk and takes a seat on the rolling chair.

“Had to wake up early,” Jimin gets out of bed, dragging his feet to the bathroom. “I need to head to the library.”

Jungkook looks appalled, “Aren’t you on summer break too?”

“I am,” Jimin replies, putting toothpaste on his toothbrush, “but I’m studying for the MCAT this summer, and the visit to the beach house is already going to cut down on my studying time. So, I need to get in some extra hours.”

“Oh, so you want to be a doctor?” Jungkook asks with a mouth full of food.

Jimin leans against the bathroom door frame, brushing his teeth. He nods a yes. In that moment, he felt grateful that he had never told Jungkook specifically what courses he took in university. He had mentioned that he took some psychology courses, but didn’t explain it was for a behavioural neuroscience degree.

“That’s really cool. I’ve heard that exam is tough, good luck with that.”

Jimin nods, heading back into the bathroom to finish brushing his teeth.

“How come you’re up so early?” Jimin asks leaving the bathroom and heading into his closet to grab clean clothes.

“Jet lag.”

“Mn,” Jimin nods in sympathy, “I’m going to shower.”

“’Kay.”

Jungkook is finished his meal when Jimin leaves the bathroom. He’s staring at Jimin’s desktop.

“Is this the same computer that Taetae hyung used to send me emails on?” His voice is filled with wonder. Jimin smiles.

“Yup, that’s the same computer, this is the same room, and the same m–”

Jungkook swivels around to face Jimin. He cocks his head, “Hmm?”

Jimin smiles, shaking his head.

“So, what are your plans for today?” Jimin asks as he makes sure his laptop and charger are in his bookbag.

“I made plans with Tae hyung last night. We’re going to walk around town and then grab food at this really good galbi restaurant he was talking about.”

“Oh? It’s probably Jin hyung’s parents’ place. Yeah, all their stuff’s amazing. You’re going to love it!” Jimin slings his bookbag around his shoulder. “Okay well have fun! I’m going to head out!”

Jungkook picks up his dishes and follows Jimin out of his room and down to the first floor, “Hey hyung, why don’t you join us? We aren’t meeting until later in the day.”

Jimin twists the straps of his bag, “I don’t know Jungkook.”

“Well at least join us for the food part,” Jungkook persists, putting the dishes in the sink and soaping up the sponge to start washing them.

Jimin takes out the blender and container of protein powder. “Okay. Yeah, sure. I’ll call Tae and meet you guys at Jin hyung’s.”

Jungkook grins over his shoulder, “Great! Oh, are you making a protein shake? Do you mind leaving the stuff out so I can make one too?”

“I can make you one?” Jimin offers, taking out almond milk and berries from the fridge.

“Really?” Jungkook smiles so brightly, Jimin has to look away, “Thank you…”

“It’s no problem,” Jimin mumbles, assembling the two drinks.

Jungkook dries his hands and comes over to lean on the island to watch Jimin work. Jimin is hyperaware of his presence, but he forces himself to focus on making the drinks.

“Here you go,” Jimin hands Jungkook a glass with a plastic straw. He grabs his own to go glass.

They take a sip simultaneously. Jimin nods in satisfaction.

“Oh! This is really good, hyung.” Jungkook gives him a thumbs up.

Jimin grins, shouldering his bag. “Thanks. I’ll see you later!”

--------

Taehyung and Jungkook sit across from each other. Neither looking at their menus. For Taehyung it was because he and Jimin frequented the joint so much that they had the menu memorized.

“Aren’t you going to take a look at the menu?”

Jungkook grins cheekily. “Why don’t you order for me hyung? Afterall, you know my likes and dislikes.”

Taehyung hides his panic behind a practiced smile. “Shall I? But maybe let’s wait for Jiminie to get here first? It’d be rude to start without him, huh?”

Jungkook nods.

“Jimin-ah!”

Taehyung and Jungkook, along with the other patrons, look up to see a flustered Jimin waving to a handsome man who had just exited the kitchen.

The two make their way to Taehyung and Jungkook’s table.

They exchange greetings as Jimin sits down between Taehyung and Jungkook.

The handsome man places an order of lamb kebabs, a bottle of soju, and three glasses on their table.

“Lamb kebabs!” Jungkook exclaims with barely contained glee. Jimin chuckles.

“Jungkook, this is Jin hyung. His family owns the restaurant.” Taehyung introduces Jin, who’s standing beside Jimin with a hand on his chair. Jungkook is a little shocked at how beautiful the older man is. His beauty is more in your face like Taehyung’s. He has porcelain skin, large almond eyes, and plush pink lips that are big like Jimin’s yet they look quite different. The man is built as well, with wide shoulders that has Jungkook blinking in envy.  

Jungkook bows slightly. “Nice to meet you, Jin-ssi.”

Jin smiles, “You can call me Jin hyung. A dongsaeng of Jimin and Tae’s is a dongsaeng of mine.”

Jungkook nods timidly. “Thank you for lamb kebabs. How did you–we didn’t order yet?”

Jin winks, that has Jungkook blushing, “A little birdie let me know, so I put the order in earlier.”

Jimin and Taehyung grin at each other. “Thank you, hyung!” They say simultaneously.

Jin raises a brow, “Look at you two being so polite. Trying to make a good impression in front of the cutie, huh?”

Taehyung mock gasps. Jimin laughs, “What do you mean hyung, we’re always polite.”

Jin snorts, “Yeah okay. Ring the bell when you want to order.”

------------------

Jimin enters his house after another long day at the library.

“Jimin-ah come here!” Jimin’s mom calls from the kitchen where she and Jungkook’s mom were prepping dinner. Jimin greets Jungkook’s mom.

“Yes mom?”

“Inhwa, was just telling me about this really nice boy from America who might be interested in you.”

Jimin’s eyes widen. He looks at Mrs. Jeon. She smiles, “Yes dear. We became friends with the Mins, after Jungkook and their son met at school and grew close. They’re a nice family, and he’s a handsome young man, a little quiet, but very smart. I think you’d really like him.”

Jimin’s cheeks burn. As much as he wanted to deny it to himself, it’s already clear to him why his heart had beat faster at the prospect. Who he had secretly hoped they were referring to, even if the more logical part of him now realized how unlikely that would’ve been.

“Mum, I’m–I need to focus on school and getting into med school right now. I don’t have time to pursue a relationship.” He turns on his heels and leaves.

He hears his mother sigh and tell Mrs. Jeon how he’s always like this.

“Jimin-ah,” his mom calls after him, “Invite Seokjin and Namjoon for dinner. We need to work out which cars to take to the beach house.”

“I already told Jin hyung to come over tonight, and to let Namjoon hyung know too,” Jimin yells back.

------------

Jungkook and Taehyung arrive at the Park residence in time for dinner.

“Oh, you’re back!” Mrs. Park greets them, bringing out a large pot of budae jjigae, “Good good. Just in time. Go grab the other kids. Dinner’s ready.”

Jungkook follows Taehyung upstairs to Jimin’s room.

They enter his and Jimin’s room, and Taehyung lets out a screech.

“Namjoon hyung!” Taehyung throws himself onto an unsuspecting man. Taehyung whines to the other about not having seen him in so long.

“Let him go, you big teddy bear.” Jin, the man from the restaurant, pulls Taehyung off of Namjoon.

“Hey Tae,” Namjoon grins, “Long time no see.”

Jungkook couldn’t believe this. Was everyone Taehyung knew attractive? This man wasn’t traditionally attractive like Jin or Taehyung. His beauty was unique, striking, a little harder to capture in words. Sort of like Jimin’s. They were both beautiful in a way that made you feel something while looking at them.

Whereas this man’s dimples and smile were cute and gave a sense of trustworthiness, his built and height were a whole different story. Not only was this Namjoon guy the tallest guy amongst the five of them, he obviously worked out as well judging by the way how his chest was bulging against his white shirt. And by how thick his thighs—oh my god.

His thighs. Namjoon for whatever reason wasn’t wearing pants, and his boxers were doing little to hide his thick sculpted thighs.

“…Nice to meet you, Jungkook.”  

Jungkook zones back in, realizing he’s being spoken to. He moves his eyes away from the other’s thighs trying to pretend he hadn’t been ogling at them. He had meant to return the greeting, but what came out of his mouth was, “Wow…thighs.”

Jungkook’s eyes widen in horror, blood rushing to his face. 

Jimin, who’d just emerged from his closet with a pair of joggers, is the first to burst out laughing. Jin and Taehyung are quick to join.

Jungkook’s ears are burning with mortification. Had he really said that out loud?

Namjoon scratches the side of his head, laughing awkwardly, “Yeah, I uh–spilled juice on myself and uh ha ha ha…I wasn’t expecting anyone to walk in.”

Jimin giggles throwing the pair of pants at Namjoon, “Those are the largest pair I own hyung, they might still be a little short on you though. Go change so poor Kookie can stop blushing.”

Jungkook makes an offended noise, glaring at Jimin.

Jimin smirks, making Jungkook huff and turn away. Not helping his flustered state at all.

Later that evening, everyone is seated around the living room enjoying ice cream for dessert.

“I’ll take my truck. So, the five of us can ride down together,” Jin suggests, referring to himself, Namjoon, Taehyung, Jimin, and Jungkook.

“Okay, then the rest of us can take the SUV,” Jimin’s father agrees.

“Will you be okay driving all the way there?” Jimin’s mother pipes up, “I would suggest that you and Jiminie take turns, but I want you boys to reach there safely.” Laughter breaks out around the room.

“Mum!” Jimin whines. He was just sitting there trying to enjoy his ice cream. Why was he being attacked?

He wants to argue that he at least has his license unlike Namjoon hyung, but he feels like that’s a cheap shot considering he had only recently gotten his and wasn’t much better than his hyung.

“It’s okay, aunty. I can take turns driving with Jin hyung,” Taehyung smirks at Jimin. Jimin sticks his tongue out like the adult he is.

“I can drive, too,” Jungkook offers, “I have an international drivers license.”

Tae looks at him with a raised brow, “Why?”

Jungkook shrugs, “Why not?” Taehyung rolls his eyes, but he’s smiling. It’s such a Jungkook thing.

“Okay then, we’ll be more than fine,” Jin concludes.

“Alright, so we’ll aim to leave tomorrow at seven. It’s a three-hour drive so we should be able to get there around ten, right around the check in,” Jimin’s father finalizes.

“And once we get there, I believe it’s time to beat Park’s ass at billiards once again,” Mr. Jeon provokes, trying to swipe a bite of ice cream from Mrs. Jeon’s bowl having already cleared his own.  

Jimin’s father laughs, “Being awfully cocky for someone who lost every other game, Jungwoo-yah.”

“Oh ho ho, hyungnim seems confident he can win against me. I guess we’ll have to prove him wrong then.” Mrs. Jeon had finally relented, and Mr. Jeon was able to take a bite of her ice cream.

“If I were you, I wouldn’t boast so much,” Taehyung’s grandma chimes in, “You’re both awful. But I suppose you are equally bad at it, so you can keep competing to see who’s the worst…”

The night continues with more challenges being extended, plans being made, and a whole lot of anecdotes from the past trips well until two in the morning. Everyone reluctantly retires to their homes, with reminders and promises to meet at the Park’s early in the morning.

“Jungkook, wake up,” Jimin shakes the younger’s shoulder a bit harder. He had already let the younger sleep a little longer while he was showering since they had slept late last night due to last minute packing, but now they were pushing the line.

Jungkook makes an almost silent noise of acknowledgement before his face relaxes again.

He looked so peaceful, Jimin felt bad for trying to wake him up. 

He’s debating the possibility of dragging the dead to this world sleeping Jungkook to the car and being done with it when there’s a soft knock. Jin enters, bright smiles and all.

“Oh, hyung you’re here?”

“Good morning, Jiminie,” Jin gives him a side hug. His gaze moving to the slumbering form under the blankets, “He’s not even awake yet?”

“I’m trying my best,” Jimin pouts.

Jin’s eyes flash, lips twitching with a hint of a mischievous smirk. “Okay grab your bags, I got this.”

Jimin was worried about the way Jin’s eyes were sparkling with barely contained glee, but they were getting late, so he let him take over. Jimin gasps when Jin yanks away the blanket and grabs onto the younger’s nipples.  

Jungkook slaps away the hands from his chest, blinking awake. “What the fuck?”

“Great you’re up! Get ready, quick. We’re leaving in twenty minutes.”

Jungkook just glares at him, still trying to come to his senses.

Jin passes Jimin, winking. “That’s how it’s done.”

Jimin snorts, watching the elder saunter out.

Jungkook yawns, stretching his arms above his head to work out the kinks.

Jimin holds out a hand, and Jungkook takes it. Jimin grunts, pulling the younger out of bed.  

Jimin chuckles at the sleepy lost look Jungkook gives him. “Get ready, okay? I’ll see you downstairs.”

Jin is driving first, and so Namjoon is sitting shot gun. Jimin, Jungkook, and Taehyung are in the back. Namjoon’s phone is hooked up to the stereo system and playing his drive playlist. Jin and Jimin had teased him mercilessly for it considering he couldn’t drive. However, the man had brilliant taste in music, so no one was really complaining.

Jimin’s head is vibrating as he’s resting it against the cool window, watching the open fields of greenery whiz by. The sky was a bright blue with wisps of white clouds here and there. It was such a beautiful day.

Jungkook is seated in the middle, an arm extended on top of Taehyung’s head rest. The two of them hadn’t stopped chatting since Taehyung arrived that morning. Jimin was surprised to see how quickly the two had gotten close. What didn’t surprise him was how obviously infatuated the younger was with his best friend.

He should get used to the idea of his best friend and his—his what? He didn’t have any claim on the younger, did he? Not when he couldn’t even use his name to sign off on all those emails…

Was Jungkook really nothing to him? Could he not even call the younger his friend? Was a family friend all their relationship would ever amount to?

Jimin squeezed his eyes shut. He hated his mind sometimes. It’s darkness heavy enough to subsume the beauty of a sunny summer day.

“Jimin?” Jungkook’s voice breaks through.


Jimin’s eyes snap open. Jungkook, Namjoon and Taehyung are all turned to look at him. He meets Jin’s eyes through the rear-view mirror.

“Yeah?” Jimin asks nonchalantly.

Jungkook studies him, and for a moment Jimin is afraid he’s going to ask what’s wrong. He won’t be able to lie properly while looking into those eyes, but Jungkook continues, “Jin hyung was asking if anyone needed a bathroom break. He’s debating whether to take the next exit to look for a gas station or go a bit further.”

“Oh! Yeah actually if you don’t mind, Jin hyung.”

“That’s fine, Jiminie.” Jin is still stealing glances at his through the rear-view mirror, but Jimin stubbornly avoids looking at him again.  

“Are you getting car sick, hyung?” Jungkook asks quietly. Jimin is surprised. He thought for sure Jungkook had let it go.

“I’ll be alright after I get some fresh air,” Jimin reassures.

Jungkook nods. He places a hand over Jimin’s fist which he hadn’t even realized was clenched. Jimin relaxes his hand, and Jungkook leaves his over Jimin’s substantially smaller one, rubbing absentminded circles into the back of his hand. He goes back to his conversation with Taehyung.

Jimin’s heart beats a bit harder. He wasn’t sure what he was in Jungkook’s eyes, but he knew his own heart at the very least. Even if it would never be acknowledged…well it would be okay. Because for him, Jungkook was more than just a family friend. He was…

He was his first love.

And for Jimin, that would have to be enough.

Chapter Text

“Jimin-ah.” Jin intercepts him on his way back from the bathroom in the small gas station store. Taehyung and Jungkook picking out snacks a few aisles away.

“Oh my god, you’re letting Namjoon hyung fill the tank?”

“Nice try, smartass,” Jin rolls his eyes, “What was that back in the car? Are you okay?”

“I’m okay, hyung…” Jimin scratches his neck, unravelling under Jin’s scrutinizing gaze. “I’ll tell you, but not here–” Jimin makes eye contact with Taehyung who’s holding up a bag of chips, and then unavoidably with Jungkook, who’s right beside him. He shakes his head to let Taehyung know not to get one for him. “–I’ll explain at the beach house if we can get some time alone.”

“You’re killing me, Jamin,” Jin pouts, purposefully butchering his name. It had become somewhat of an endearing pet name of his from his eldest hyung. “You know I love gossip.”

Jimin smiles, “Try to make it, hyung. I think it’ll be worth it. You’re going to get a kick out of this.”

Jin gasps dramatically making Jimin giggle.

“Why are you like this hyung…”

----------

“Oh my god,” Jin finally utters after ten whole seconds have passed since Jimin finished explaining the whole email-and-pretending-to-be-Taehyung situation. He and Namjoon stare at Jimin with twin expressions of shock. The room falls into silence, once again. 

After settling into their rooms and grabbing a quick lunch at the nearby beach-side restaurant, everyone else had headed to the beach. Jin, however, had grabbed Namjoon and Jimin, ushered them back into the beach house for some privacy. He whined until Jimin told them everything.

Jimin rocks back and forth on his feet, waiting for their reactions.

Namjoon walks to the nearest bunkbed and sits down on the bottom bunk. The beach house had three rooms with queen beds, and then it had a final bedroom with four pairs of bunk beds. The kids had naturally all settled into the bunk beds room, with Namjoon, Jin, and Jungkook taking the bottom bunks of their own beds, and Jimin and Taehyung sharing one bunkbed between the two of them.

Jimin rummages through his duffel bag for a beach towel. Might as well make use of the time. He remembers his mother mentioning there should be a beach umbrella in the main closet. He’ll have to remember to get that before heading down to the beach.

“Oh, Jiminie,” Jin starts again after having gathered his thoughts, “I’m sorry.”

Jimin cocks his head. Of all the reactions he had been dreadfully expecting, this was not one of them. “Why are you sorry?”

“You like him.” Jin wasn’t asking, yet Jimin still felt the strong urge to deny it. Jimin sputters, trying to get the words out.

“It’s not too late, Jimin-ah,” Namjoon finally utters, “You can still tell Jungkook everything.”

That gets coherent words out, “No! No! No, I can’t. It’s okay. I–I’m fine with the way things are. As long as he doesn’t find out, everyone is happy.”

“You’re not happy,” Namjoon frowns.

“Maybe,” Jimin bites his lip, “But I won’t be happy hurting him like that either, hyung. And he will be hurt. Who wouldn’t be, after finding out someone they trusted and thought was their friend had been lying to them for half their lives?”

“Jimin–”

Jimin cuts off Jin, “No, please. I’m sorry, I wish I was brave enough to do that, but I really can’t.” His voice cracks towards the end.

Jin sighs, “Okay. It’s your decision.”

“We’re here for you,” Namjoon says getting up from the bed. Jimin nods.

Jin puts on a smile, “You were right.”

“Hm?”

“I’m going to get a kick out of this. This shit is straight out of a drama!”

Jimin laughs, glad the stuffy atmosphere had been lifted, “You’re ridiculous, hyung.”

Jin grins, “No, but seriously. You know what, it’s actually even better because we know all the characters. We get to see this unfold live!”

Jimin rolls his eyes, pushing the other gently, but to prove a point, “This is not a drama, hyung. Stop smiling like that. Hey–nothing’s going to happen. Stop smiling!”

Jimin chases Jin out of the room trying to smack him with his beach towel, with Namjoon following behind.

----------

Jimin sits relaxed on his beach towel, in the cooling shade of the large beach umbrella. (He had indeed forgotten it in his chase of the eldest hyung and had to double back to get it).

He watches Taehyung finish the sandcastle he had been working on for the past half an hour or so. Nodding in satisfaction, he heads over to Jimin.

“Did you see my sandcastle?!”

“I did. It looks pretty awesome! I like the moat.”

Taehyung grins, taking a seat beside Jimin on the beach towel. “I’m sorry we haven’t had a chance to talk with me being busy with Jungkook.”

Jimin offers him a genuine smile. “That’s okay… how’re things going with you?”

“Good good. Jungkook–he’s…” Taehyung’s eyes are fixated on where Jungkook is standing in the water. His wet, shirtless upper body glistening in the sunlight. Jimin looks back at him in time to see him gulp. The tips of his ears red. “He’s so amazing, Jiminie.”

Jimin clears his throat, “Yeah?”

“Mmm… He’s so kind…and funny…and so charming…”

Jimin’s face softens at the expression on Taehyung’s face as he waves to Jungkook. His best friend looked so happy. “I’m glad then. As long as you’re happy…”

Taehyung beams at him, wrapping his arms around Jimin in a spontaneous hug. “I am. I’m so happy.”

Jimin pats the arm in front of him, “If you’re happy, then I’m happy too, Tae.” His friend squeals into his neck as if he himself couldn’t control his joy.

The two sit on their beach towel, chatting, watching their friends and family scattered around and having fun in their own ways.

“Those two should just kiss.” Taehyung nods to where Namjoon and Jin were standing in the distance.

Namjoon was holding up cupped hands to show Jin something. Knowing him and going by the bright smile he wore, he had most likely caught a crab.   

Jimin laughs, “They complement each other well. I hope they make it official soon.”

“They’ll make each other happy,” Taehyung agrees. “People should be with the ones that make them happy.”

“Taetae hyung!”

Jimin watches the radiant smile on Jungkook’s face as he waves and yells to get Taehyung’s attention. Taehyung gets up from their shared beach towel, heading over to see what Jungkook wanted.

Jimin watches Jungkook start chasing an unexpecting Taehyung who screams in surprise, backing away on instinct. Jimin winces as Taehyung trips and falls on his butt, but he doesn’t appear to be hurt by the way he’s laughing and still struggling to get away from a quickly approaching Jungkook. Taehyung is laughing and screaming as Jungkook picks him up, like he was some dainty bride, and runs into the ocean. Waves drenching the two immediately.

“Yes…” Jimin says to himself softly, “People should be with the ones that make them happy.”

---------------

Jimin’s walking down the pier alone. It’s nearing six in the evening. Namjoon and Jin had decided to take a walk along the beach. Taehyung and Jungkook had run off to god knows where, and their parents and nana Kim had gone back to the house for some tea.

Jimin reaches the end of the pier. Taking off his slippers, he sits down beside them, letting his feet swing above the water. This place was just as beautiful as he remembers. The water, a crystal blue. The sound of the waves, so soothing. The sunshine, warm and invigorating. An ocean breeze, cool and refreshing so the heat of summer sun was never unbearable.

A red something bobs in the ocean in the distance. Jimin squints. Was that a buoy of some sort? Jimin squints harder. No…no that was a person.

And they were waving their hands.

In an instance, Jimin is taking off his shirt and jumping into the water. The water is colder than he expected, his mind registers, but he doesn’t allow himself to give it much thought before he’s swimming.

As he gets closer, the person’s screams become audible or perhaps they started screaming once they saw him.

“Help! Please help me!!”

Jimin’s eyes widen as he reaches the man on a red swim tube. “Hoseok hyung?”

The shock is mirrored in the red headed man’s eyes, “Jiminie?”

“Hyung? How–What happened?” Jimin swims in place beside the tube.

“Oh Jiminie,” Hoseok whines. His voice sounds hoarse. Jimin wonders how long he had been screaming for. “Thank god! I must have fallen asleep. I keep drifting away. You have to help me. Please. Please take me back.”

Jimin hooks a hand around the tube from underneath. “Yeah yes of course hyung. Don’t worry.”

Jimin begins swimming back towards the shore, except with the added weight of another grown man it was much slower than before.

They’re substantially closer to the shore, but Jimin is struggling. Hoseok has been whimpering and apologizing for the majority of the ride, and Jimin wants to console him, but he also wants to get the elder to land as soon as possible. He could be suffering from heat stroke, and he’s probably really dehydrated.

He hears yells. It’s the others standing on the pier. They must’ve spotted the two of them. One of them jumps into the water, making their way towards them.

As the figure gets closer, he can make out that it’s Jin.

“Hyung!” Jimin sighs in relief as Jin hooks his arm under the tube too, lessening the load on Jimin significantly. His muscles are crying at this point.

Together, the two of them pull the tube the rest of the way, to the side of the pier where there is a ladder. They line it up as close to it as possible so Hoseok could climb up. Hoseok grabs onto the bars tightly, wavering as he gets up from the tube, but without any further complications makes his way up the ladder. Namjoon is at the top, giving him a hand and pulling him up.

Jimin waits for Jin to climb up first, but the elder refuses to move.

Jin narrows his eyes. “Jimin-ah, get your ass up there, now.”

Jimin blinks but climbs up first. Jungkook is holding out a hand for him at the top, and Jimin takes it letting himself be pulled up.

“Thanks,” Jimin huffs, running his hands through his drenched locks, getting them out of his face. He wipes away the water around his eyes using the crook of his arm. His contact lenses feel like they’re going to fall out.

Jungkook doesn’t say anything. Jimin finds it a little odd, but he doesn’t have the time to give it much thought.

“Are you okay?” Taehyung demands pushing Jungkook out of the way and grasping Jimin’s shoulders. He shakes him twice for good measure.

“I’m fine, Taetae. Really.” Jimin breaks out of his friend’s hold, moving to squat next to Hoseok who’s lying on his back, eyes closed.

Taehyung shakes his head, pulling Jin up. Jin manages to bring up the red tube too.

“Hoseok hyung,” Jimin touches the man’s shoulder, “Let’s get you inside and get you some water.”

Hoseok sits up and drapes himself over Jimin. Jimin almost loses his balance, but he manages to get a hand on the floor, and another around the elder steadying them both.

“Thank you thank you thank you thank you,” Hoseok’s hug gets tighter with every thank you, “My saviour. My favourite dongsaeng. What did I do to deserve you? I love you!” Hoseok finishes his rambling with a smooch to Jimin’s right cheek. Jimin covers it instinctively with his right hand, blinking owlishly.

“Oh–I–it’s nothing, hyung.” Jimin feels the blood rush to his face, “I’m just glad I saw you.”

Hoseok squishes Jimin’s cheeks, bringing his face inevitably closer. Jimin’s eyes bulge, Hoseok wasn’t going to kiss him, was he? The elder was eccentric and touchy and he had just had a near-death experience –er sort of, but he wouldn’t really kiss him, would he?

Jin and Taehyung exchange looks behind Hoseok’s back.

“Here, I’ll help you up,” Jungkook cuts in, hooking his hands under Hoseok’s armpits, pulling him up and off of Jimin easily.

“Oh–oh thank you?”

Namjoon smirks, watching Jungkook begin dragging Hoseok towards the beach house. He picks up the discarded shirt and slippers, passing them to Jimin.

Jimin doesn’t bother putting on the shirt, dropping the slippers and slipping them onto his feet.

The rest of them follow behind Jungkook and Hoseok.

“…I’m Jungkook by the way…”

“…oh! Nice to meet you, I’m Jung Hoseok…”

Chapter Text

“How did something like that happen?” Namjoon asks Hoseok, handing him some of his own clothes and a towel. They were back at the beach house and Hoseok had been invited to spend the night since they had extra beds anyways. Namjoon had been thrilled to learn Hoseok was the same-age as him.

Hoseok thanked Namjoon for the clothes, “I was kind of tired so I guess I was lulled to sleep. I was supposed to come down with noona, but she got held up last minute with some problems with an order shipment.”

“Noona’s a fashion designer,” Jimin supplies. Hoseok nods.

“I thought I’d chill in the water until she got there, you know? ‘Cuz it was so hot out,” Hoseok pouts.

Jimin rubs a comforting hand on his back, “You must’ve been further down the beach, or I would’ve seen you earlier.”

“Yeah, I was just off of the public parking lot.”

Jimin hums, the public access was quite a bit away from where they were staying, Hoseok must’ve been stuck out there, drifting further and further, for a lot longer than he had realized.

“So, you two know each other?” It’s Jungkook who asked, leaning against the ladder of his bunkbed.

“Yeah we met at–”

“Hyung!” Jimin jumps up, tugging on Hoseok’s wrist to make him follow, “Dawon Noona! We have to let her know what happened. Come on!” A frazzled Hoseok follows Jimin out.

Jungkook blinks. That had been a little random…

Namjoon and Jin exchange a look, having a feeling they knew what that had been about.

Before Jungkook can contemplate the weird and abrupt exit, Taehyung is striking up a conversation with him effectively distracting him.

“And that’s why you can’t tell him how we met hyung. I’ve mentioned my dance competitions on several occasions, but he thinks the person he was talking to was Tae. So, he can’t know we met through dance, that would be too much of a coincidence.” Jimin worries his bottom lip, studying his hyung.

Hoseok sits down on the toilet of the bathroom Jimin had dragged him into.

“So, what do I say if he asks me again?” Hoseok finally speaks up. Jimin smiles softly, touched at how willingly his hyung enters his web of lies for him.

“Uni?” Hoseok indeed attends the same university as Jimin, but they were in different faculties with the elder in graduate school for education. In reality they rarely saw each other, caught up in their own work. However, it was more than a reasonable explanation that didn’t stray too far from the truth. “Thank you so much, hyung. I know you didn’t sign up for this.”

“For the man who saved my life, anything,” Hoseok’s answering smile is contagious and Jimin finds himself giggling.

“Speaking of, how are you feeling? Does your head hurt? You might’ve gotten a heat stroke.”

“Yeah, my head is starting to ache,” Hoseok grimaces rubbing his temples, feeling the pain more now that he’s finally paying his body attention again.

“I’ll let you shower,” Jimin makes his way to the door, “You should take some medicine and get some sleep after. Oh, and I’ll call noona and let her know what happened. She can stay the night too!”

“Hey, Jimin?” Hoseok calls, Jimin pauses to look over his shoulder, “Thank you again.”

Jimin shakes his head, “I’m just glad I saw you, hyung.”

“Oh!” Jimin startles as he sees Jungkook waiting outside the bathroom, he closes the door behind him, “Hyung is going to shower, so you should use a different bathroom, kookie.”

Jungkook blinks staring from Jimin to the closed door behind him.

Jimin clears his throat, “Jung–”

“You called me kookie?”

Jimin blinks. “I’ve called you that before? I–Taehyung calls you that, and it’s a cute nickname so I thought… I can stop using it if you want,” Jimin finishes quietly.

“No no, you can call me that. It’s okay… I guess I wasn’t paying attention when you used it earlier,” Jungkook seems lost in thought, and now Jimin is confused.

“I can call you Jungkook if it bothers you, I don’t mind,” Jimin offers again.

Jungkook shakes his head, “No, I don’t mind. I swear.”

Jimin studies him, figuring he would’ve taken the out if it was something that really bothered him, “Okay.”

Jungkook mumbles a farewell before he walks away, leaving Jimin more confused than before.

The first thing Dawon does when entering the beach house is hug Jimin. Jimin feels his cheeks heat up. He had met her only once before, and he remembered being in awe at how beautiful she was. Both the Jung siblings had been gifted with good looks. Whereas Hoseok had a strong jawline and a straight nose that worked for him, his older sister had a dainty nose and a small round feminine face. Yet the family resemblance was clear as day in the shape of their almost identical almond shaped eyes.

“Noona, it’s okay,” gently placing a hand on her back, “He’s okay. I told you not to worry.”

She pulls away, wiping away a few tears and sniffling, “Where’s the idiot? Only he could pull off something so foolish.”

Jimin snorts, “Hyung’s, sleeping. Let him get some rest. Come on, the rest are out on the field. We were going to play baseball. Or you could go down to the beach instead if you want.”

“Baseball?” Dawon cocked her head.

Jimin grinned, “Yeah I know, but the house had the equipment, so we thought why not.”

“I don’t know if I’ll play, but maybe I’ll come watch you all. Do you mind if I use the bathroom first though? It was a long ride.”

“Of course,” Jimin gave her the directions to the main bathroom, “And you’re staying the night, noona. We have extra beds so it’s no problem.”

Dawon smiles, “You’re a good man, Jimin.”

Jimin feels his ears burn as he ducks his head.

Somehow, they had managed to set up a game, after Namjoon had looked up the rules and gave them all a small lecture on how to play.

They had split up into teams, with the Kims, Jungkook, and Mrs. Jeon making up Team Kim Seokjin (with great reluctance from all the other members except Jin), and the Parks, Mr. Jeon, and Dawon making up Team Shortstuff (the name was offered by Jungkook and Jin, and was accepted with great reluctance from all the members on the basis they couldn’t think of anything else). Taehyung’s grandma was happy to watch from the sidelines.

The score was 3 to 2, with Jimin being the last one up to bat. His dad had been struck out on his way to the third base, and they were going to lose unless Jimin somehow managed a homerun.

In other words, Jimin had accepted defeat and was going to just have fun with it.

Mrs. Jeon was acting as the pitcher for Team Kim Seokjin, and from what he could tell she was pretty decent at it.

He bent his knees slightly, lifted the bat, and held it above his right shoulder, keeping his eyes trained on the ball in Mrs. Jeon’s hands.

Mrs. Jeon threw the ball, and Jimin swung. Fortunately, he made contact. 

For a second everyone stares in shock as the ball goes sailing over their heads, much further than expected. Dawon is yelling at him to run. Oh right. He drops the bat and runs to first base where Jin is stationed. Taehyung who had been manning the second base, is running after the ball and still hasn’t caught up to it yet, so Jimin passes through the base and keeps running towards the second base. Everyone is screaming as he clears the second base as well. Taehyung has made it to the ball by the time Jimin ran through the third base, passing Mr. Jeon.

In a split second, Jimin decides to go for the home run. Jungkook is running forward towards the home base, preparing to catch the ball, but Jimin doesn’t have the time to stop.

The two crash into each other, hard, toppling over.

Jimin groans under the weight of Jungkook.

“Woah, sorry,” Jungkook winces lifting himself up on his elbows, “Are you alright?”

Jimin’s brain blanks with Jungkook’s face hovering over his own. He didn’t know where to look. 

Jungkook clears his throat, standing up and holding out a hand to help Jimin up too.

“You okay, son?” Jimin’s dad asks.

He nods, “Did I at least get the point?”

Jungkook laughs, “I think so considering you tackled me down before I could catch the ball.”

“Well done, son!” Jimin’s dad pats him on the back.

“Nice hustle, Jimin-ah,” Mr. Jeon complements, squeezing his shoulder.

“I feel betrayed,” Jungkook shakes his head, but he’s smiling, “My own father.”

Mr. Jeon chuckles, ruffling his son’s hair, “It’s not often you lose, so you need to practice taking losses with grace when you can.”

“We didn’t lose!” Jungkook argues immediately, “It was a tie!”

Everyone laughs, gathering up the gear and heading back to the house.

“He’s not even on your team,” Jungkook whines to Jimin.

Jimin looks away, laughing as he picks up the bats and gloves around him.

Hoseok helps Jimin with the barbecue that evening.

“Scissors! Scissors Jiminie!!!” Hoseok wails as the fire from the barbeque roars up past the grill.

Jimin runs inside to find some. He giggles, bringing back a pair of kitchen scissors, “How could you start barbequing without scissors, hyung.”

Hoseok laughs, embarrassed. He had managed to get the fire in control and began cutting the meat into tinier pieces using the scissors Jimin hands him.

“Wah, it smells so good,” Jimin moans appreciatively from beside him once the meat was getting a nice brown roasted look.

“Open up, Jimin-ah,” Hoseok holds up a piece of beef with tongs. Jimin does as instructed, letting the other feed him.

“Is there some left for the rest of us?” It was Jungkook, holding up a plate.

“Jungkook!” Hoseok exclaims, already having taken a liking to the maknae, “Of course of course! Jiminie’s just the guinea pig to make sure the meat is safe to eat.”

Jimin squawks indignantly, swatting Hoseok’s arm.

“Since he’s still alive, does it mean it’s safe for the rest of us to eat?” Jungkook teases, going along with Hoseok.

Jimin rolls his eyes, walking away to help Dawon who was teaching Taehyung how to make japchae inside. He hides his smile at the laughter coming from behind him. It was nice to see Jungkook warming up to others.

“The food’s delicious!” Jimin’s dad marvels, helping himself to seconds, “You kids did a wonderful job!”

There’s choruses of thank yous from around the camp fire, around which they’ve gathered to eat.

“Wait why are you saying thank you, Jimin-ah? You didn’t even do anything!” Hoseok nudges Jimin’s calf with his foot.

“Hey! I provided moral support, excuse you hobi hyung,” Jimin defends.

Hoseok snickers, but places a piece of meat from his plate on top of Jimin’s rice as a form of appeasement.

Hoseok had done a wonderful job with the meat. The piece of beef almost melting in Jimin’s mouth from how tender and flavourful it was. He grins, satisfied at having nabbed it from Hoseok.

Eventually, the mess of dinner is cleared away, and Mr. Jeon and Jimin’s dad bring out supplies for s’mores. They pass around metal rods, bags of marshmallows, chocolate bars, and graham crackers. Taehyung’s grandma passes, being mindful of her sugar levels, instead choosing to retire to her bedroom.

Jimin hasn’t done this in so long. He revels at the experience of watching his marshmallow gradually turn golden brown. The heat of the fire is almost a bit much, but Jimin stays rooted letting the warmth heat up his face.

Jimin catches sight of Jin studying him subtly from over Namjoon’s shoulder, munching on a s’more thoughtfully. Once caught he raises a brow glancing towards Hoseok who was recounting how Dawon and him had visited this beach once before with their family when they were kids but never stayed long enough to do something like this. Jimin knows that look. Jin is asking what’s up between the two of them. He’s not surprised considering they hadn’t left each other’s side the entire night.

Jin might even be considering the possibility that the two of them were involved romantically. Jin had always been quick to jump on that train. However, tonight wasn’t so much about finding romantic comfort as it was about self-preservation.

Jimin was grateful for Hoseok’s presence because he provided him with a much needed distraction. A distraction from Taehyung and Jungkook. He didn’t have to focus on tampering down his emotions at seeing them together. Not able to take their eyes off of each other. Jungkook all confident smirks, Taehyung all boxy smiles and giggling. They seemed happy.

Jimin didn’t want to acknowledge the ugly feelings festering within him. He didn’t want to think about how he wasn’t strong enough to be able to be happy for them. At least not yet. No one needed to know though. Jimin would do his best to act it, and eventually he would no longer need to act because he’d be able to be happy for them for real. However, until that day arrived Jimin would have to be careful. Not giving himself the chance to dwell on their relationship. Letting them do their thing while he minded his own business. Detaching himself so his emotions didn’t have a chance to betray him.

Jimin runs into Jungkook in the middle of the night.

“Oh Jungkookie?” He asks quietly, mindful of everyone else who’s sleeping. He takes out a bottle of water from the fridge, pouring himself a glass, “Want some?”

Jungkook shakes his head. Jimin returns the bottle to the fridge. “What are you doing up?”

“I couldn’t sleep...”

“Mn same,” Jimin finishes the glass of water, rinsing it out. “I was going to go look at the stars, want to join me?”

“Oh...” Jungkook drums his fingers on the counter absentmindedly, “That sounds nice. You don’t mind the company?”

“Not at all, that’s why I asked. Come on,” Jimin slips on his flip flops, quietly slipping out the door.

It’s nice outside. The moonlight illuminating their path. The warmth of a summer night being cooled down by a refreshing ocean breeze.

Instead of lying down and watching the stars, Jimin feels like walking along the beach. Jungkook follows without protest. The two walk side by side mindlessly wandering down the length of the beach before doubling back, neither feeling compelled to fill the silence.

“Why couldn’t you sleep?” Jimin asks finally, pausing to face the ocean. He watches the waves come in and go back out, Jungkook stops beside him doing the same. The sounds of the water settling his mind to ease.

“A lot on my mind, I think...” Jungkook speaks quietly as if he too was lulled by the ocean.

Jimin hums.

“What about you?”

“Same,” Jimin takes a seat with his legs stretched out in front of him. He grabs a fist full of sand, raising it up and flattening his palm to watch it fall back down from in between his fingers. “Too many racing thoughts.”

“Mn,” Jungkook nods sympathetically, laying down on his back. “Oh wow.”

Jimin glances at the younger to see his eyes fixated above them. He looks up as well to see  the pinpricks of light from the stars splattered against the night sky. There were certainly more stars visible than what one could see from the city due to all the light pollution getting in the way. It was mesmerizing.

Eventually Jimin’s neck starts cramping from the awkward angle and he lays down as well, staring up to admire the canvas of twinkling stars surrounding them. The moon was high in the sky now. It appeared almost full. The full moon was either approaching in the upcoming days or they might’ve just missed it.

“That was pretty amazing what you did today,” Jungkook says softly from beside him.

Jimin turns his head to the side and is met with Jungkook already staring right at him. His face lit by the moonlight. “Tackling you to the ground to get a home run?”

His thoughtful expression gives way to unexpected laughter as he recalls the incident from earlier, and Jimin feels pleased having elicited the moment of happiness from the younger.

“That too, I guess.”

Jungkook turns to his side so he’s facing him completely. His head cushioned by one of his arms folded beneath it to get comfortable. Jimin unconsciously mirrors the position so they’re both facing each other.

“I meant how you saved Hoseok hyung.”

“I don’t know why everyone is making a big deal out of it.” Jimin studies the design his finger is drawing in the sand beside his head, “I was there. I saw Hoseok hyung. I helped him get back. Anyone else would’ve done the same thing.”

“Okay, maybe,” Jungkook relents, “But it was still pretty badass.”

Jimin smiles, “Right place, right time. I had the resources to help. That’s all it was.”

Jimin has a feeling Jungkook is still studying him, but he’s feeling too nervous to look up.

“Hyung... you’re a nice guy.”

Jimin squirms internally, embarrassed but maybe a little pleased as well that the younger thought so. He still didn’t know how to respond when someone complimented him. So he does the thing he always does. Deflect and distract.

“So how are things going with you and Taehyung?”

Why? Why would he ask that? And to make matters worse Jungkook falls silent, leaving Jimin squirming internally.

Jimin was about to backtrack when Jungkook speaks again. “We’re getting along well. He’s funny and quirky in an endearing way. He also has an interesting take on life.”

“What’s bugging you then?”

“What? What makes you think that?” Jungkook asks cautiously.

“Well, now, your lack of denial... but why I asked in the first place...” Jimin thinks. How to put it in words. When you’ve been in contact with someone for eleven years, you become familiar with the way they talk. How they answer questions. What they prioritize. And who knows what else you learn without being aware of it consciously to the point that you no longer have to analyze the words. Recognizing their meaning or the implied subtleties intuitively.

Jungkook was a direct guy. There wasn’t anything inherently negative in his answer that would make one think something was bothering him or that they weren’t getting along. However, there was something about his answer that although Jimin couldn’t explicitly pinpoint, but made him sound reserved which wasn’t how an excited Jungkook worked. An excited Jungkook was a passionate Jungkook.

“I’m not sure, Jungkookie... maybe you can call it a gut feeling.”

Jungkook mulls over the answer. “Do you think you can...fall for someone without meeting them?”

Jimin’s breath hitches. He knows the answer. You can fall for someone without meeting them, without seeing their face, without hearing their voice. You can because Jimin did. He fell in love with Jungkook through his words. But Jungkook... he didn’t realize that the words did not belong to the man he was falling for.

For the first time, Jimin thinks he realizes how unfair it all was for Jungkook. And for the first time in eleven years, Jimin thinks he actually regrets sending that first email. He had always felt a tremendous amount of guilt lying to the younger, and even Taehyung for that matter who had not consented for his name to be used, but he hadn’t ever felt regretful because how nice it had been to be able to talk to Jungkook. Getting to learn about him the way not a lot of people did. But now...

Jimin let’s out a laborious breath, “Jungkook I–”

He tries again, “Do–?” Jimin doesn’t even know what he wants to say or ask. Was it possible that Jungkook had developed feelings for him just like Jimin had?

But no. Even if that was somehow true, this convoluted attraction was contingent on the fact that Jungkook thought he was talking to Taehyung.

“Answer me this, Jungkook-ah,” Jimin steels himself for the response, “For a second forget about the letters and the last eleven years. Are you...falling for Taehyung?”

Jungkook’s brows are furrowed, “I know you’re asking me to forget, but those letters aren’t–me falling for someone right now isn’t an isolated thing, Jimin. That’s not how any of this works.”

Jimin falls back on his back, staring up at the stars. He couldn’t let Jungkook see the tears in his eyes. He would have no explanation to give him if he did.

“I think if I’m being honest I was already in love with him before I saw him again. And I don’t know. Is that even possible? Could it really be love?”

“I’m not you, Jungkook… I can’t tell you what you’re feeling,” Jimin starts because it seemed that Jungkook honestly wanted Jimin’s opinion, “But say you are feeling something, you don’t need someone else to tell you your feelings are valid. If you feel something, then you feel it. You don’t need to justify it. Your feelings aren’t any less valid because you didn’t fall for someone in the traditional way.”

Jimin feels the guilt, that was almost a constant in his life at this point, pool in his stomach. How could he lay here giving Jungkook advice when his own views were so far skewed, so far from being unbiased? Those words were meant as much for himself as they were for Jungkook.

Jungkook scratches at his chest. The movement catching Jimin’s eyes.

“That wasn’t what was bugging you, was it? You already knew your feelings. There’s something else?”

Jungkook gives him a fleeting startled look before lying on his back again, evading eye contact.

“Taehyung said ‘how can you make new memories if you’re stuck in the old ones?’,” Jungkook mutters. “I don’t know why I can’t stop thinking about it. It felt like a dismissal of our past.”

Jimin sighs internally. That was something Taehyung believed quite strongly in. He tends to bring it up every now and then. It was his way of dealing with life.

“I’m sure he didn’t mean to imply that intentionally. I think his desire was the part about the future. Building new memories together, in person. You’ll always have the emails; nothing will change the fact that they are a part of you. A part of your past. But there might be a lot of beautiful memories awaiting still.”

“Oh...” Jungkook turns to the side to offer him a genuine smile, “That’s a nice way to look at it. Beautiful memories await us. I’ll look forward to that.”

He nods, glad the younger was feeling more at ease. Especially since the unease was in part because of the problem Jimin created.

“Taehyung is lucky to have you, you’re a good friend.”

Jungkook needed to stop complimenting him. Jimin’s poor heart couldn’t take it.

He clears his throat, “I think I’m lucky to have him… He’s so loyal. He’s stuck by me all these years. He’s been my rock.”

“Yes, but it’s also a two-way street no? You’ve stuck by him all these years as well. Taehyung isn’t the type of person to stay with people out of loyalty if they don’t reciprocate it themselves. I’m sure Taehyung gets as much out of your relationship as you do.”

Jimin blinks, “Still... there’s a lot to appreciate about him. He’s a wonderful person.”

“What do you like about him?” Jungkook asks interested in hearing about Taehyung from someone else.

“I think...I admire his innocence. Tae’s pure in a way that I find absolutely fascinating. I like being around him.

“He’s the type of person that attracts a lot of people. He’s not afraid to approach people, and sometimes it feels like he doesn’t experience the world like the rest of us. Like he’s free from the societal pressures and fears that bind the rest of us. He’s not afraid of how he’ll look or what others will think or if others would want to be his friend. He doesn’t waste time dwelling on things like that. He lives simply in that manner and follows his heart. And I almost envy that about him sometimes.”

“You sound like you’re in love with him.”

Jimin chuckles, “I do love him. We’re platonic soulmates. I’d do anything for him. But I’m not in love with him, not like you’re suggesting.”

“So, I’m in the clear?” Jungkook smirks, creating a lighthearted atmosphere once again. A grateful reprieve from their heavy conversations.

Jimin giggles, “Yes, yes. You don’t have to worry about me.” You’re free to love him, and I, you.

“Good because otherwise I would’ve lost that battle,” Jungkook says offhandedly.

“Huh?”

Jungkook shakes his head, smiling. He looked a lot more at peace than he had when they had run into each other in the kitchen.

Chapter Text

Jungkook becomes gradually aware of the ache in his back. He tries tossing to his side, but he can’t. As his senses start to come to, he realizes it’s because there is a weight resting on his waist and legs, keeping him in place.

He blinks his eyes open, squinting against the bright sky.

Where?

He looks down to see black hair fanning across his chest. He blinks. The memories of last night come back to him. Running into Jimin. Taking a walk. Lying down to watch the stars. Talking. They must’ve fallen asleep on the beach.

Jungkook smiles. Jimin was using him as a body pillow essentially. His head resting on Jungkook’s chest, one leg hooked over Jungkook’s. Maybe if they were sleeping in a real bed and if his back wasn’t killing him he’d let Jimin sleep, but boy was his back hurting.

“Jiminie,” he croaks. He runs his hand through the elder’s hair.

Jimin finally stirs. Lifting his head and looking around like a confused puppy. Jungkook’s heart melts at the sight of the sleepy man. He looks so young with his face bloated and puffy. If Jungkook didn’t know any better he’d be convinced Jimin was younger than him.

“Sorry,” Jimin mutters, unhooking himself from Jungkook.

“It’s cool.” Jungkook groans getting up to stretch, working the kinks out of all his joints.

Jimin stays seated, staring ahead with hooded, dazed eyes. He was really out of it.

Jungkook chuckles, squatting in front of him, “Jiminie? We should head back.”

Jimin nods absentmindedly. There it was again, Jungkook called him Jiminie. And last night he had called him Jimin. When had he decided to drop the honorific. Normally Jimin would bring it up, but he’s hoping it means Jungkook feels more comfortable around him. Or maybe it was simply because Jungkook grew up in America that he doesn’t place as much importance on honourifics to begin with...

Whatever the case, he does think that things feel different between them. He feels more relaxed. Jungkook certainly looks more at ease, smiling at Jimin contently.

The youngest holds out his hand, helping Jimin up.

“Ugh why didn’t we bring a beach towel or something?” Jimin drawls dusting off the sand clinging to his sides and behind, “There’s going to be sand in places where there shouldn’t be sand.”

Jungkook laughs, reaching over and wiping the sand embedded in Jimin’s soft cheek. Jimin blinks owlishly. Well... if Jungkook didn’t think it was a big deal, he reached up and ruffled Jungkook’s hair getting the majority of the grains out.

“Thanks!”

Jimin rubs his chest. It was too early to be assaulted by Jungkook’s bunny smile. However, Jimin couldn’t think of a better way to start the day.

“Anytime.”

The time at the beach had flown by. They were back home now, and the two week timeline was coming to an end. On the second to last day of the Jeon’s stay, Jimin receives a call from Jungkook asking him to meet him at some jewelry store Jimin had never heard of before.

Liked the whipped man he was, Jimin packs his books and heads to the location Jungkook had mentioned.

Opening the door to the jewelry shop, Jimin immediately spots Jungkook’s hunched back looking at a display case at the back.

“Hi,” Jimin greets coming up beside him.

“Jimin! You’re here! Look at this!” He points to a black thread bracelet with a lock charm.

“It’s really pretty,” Jimin replies honestly.

“I was thinking of getting it for Taehyung, as a type of promise ring type of ordeal. I’d get two so we could match.”

“Oh,” Jimin studies the piece of jewelry, “Taehyung will really like it. Especially because it’s from you.”

“You think so? I hope that’s true. He was so upset when he realized I was leaving tomorrow. I guess he really forgot,” Jungkook raises a hand to flag down someone to help him make his purchase. “He tried to convince me to stay a little longer, I feel so bad because I really can’t.”

“Oh yeah you have the meeting with BH group for that new project,” Jimin recalls studying a ring in the same display case. It was a thin three-part band with the outer two bands being silver, while the center one was black. Maybe he should get it since he had come all the way here.

He realizes his mistake when Jungkook doesn’t respond. He looks up to see Jungkook staring at him with a confused look on his face

“Taehyung mentioned it when he told me you were coming for two weeks. He tends to be kind of forgetful of these kinds of things, so I tend to remind him.” It’s true, Taehyung was forgetful of dates and Jimin was often giving him reminders. He hopes Jungkook doesn’t find it weird that ‘Taehyung’ hadn’t brought up that fact in the emails.

“Ah,” Jungkook nods, facing the man who had come over to help them. He points out the bracelets, “Hello, can I please get two of those bracelets?”

“Certainly,” the man says politely, bending down to open a drawer below the display case.

“Actually–can you make it four bracelets,” Jungkook corrects.

“You planning on wearing one on each wrist, Jeon?” Jimin perplexes.

Jungkook raises a brow at the new nickname. He snorts, “No, one pair is for you. You can give the other to your partner in the future.”

“Oh–uh then please don’t get out four bracelets sir. Two are enough,” Jimin requests before turning to Jungkook, “That’s so incredibly sweet, Jungkook. I really appreciate the thought, but I don’t have any interest in dating.”

Jungkook’s doe eyes, that sparkle with the reflection from all the lights in the store, go round, “You’re not interested in dating? At all?”

Jimin shrugs, “I guess it’s more accurate to say I don’t see myself dating anyone. If that ever changes, maybe I’ll come back here and get them some sort of promise jewelry as well, but until I’m sure I’ll even have someone to give it to, I don’t want to waste your money.”

“It wouldn’t be a waste,” Jungkook protests with a small furrow in his brows.

Jimin smiles, “It’s okay, kookie.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes!” Jimin insists, “I’m going to go look at the earrings real quick, let me know when you’re done.”

Jungkook nods, taking out his wallet from his back pocket while he waits for his items to be packaged.

Jimin is looking at a pair of really pretty hoop earrings with tassels, crosses and other small trinkets that he’s almost convinced himself of being worth the pricey 50 000 won price tag when Jungkook is calling for him.

“Hyung, I’m almost done,” Jungkook calls.

Jimin pouts, maybe it’s a sign he shouldn’t get it.

“See anything you like?” Jungkook asks as a lady is ringing up his purchase. A black bag with white tissue paper and a white ribbon tying the top hems together rests on the counter. Jimin’s impressed by the aesthetic packaging.

“Maybe.”

“It comes to 1 245 000 won, sir.”

Jimin chokes on his own saliva, “One million–Jungkook!”

Jungkook grins handing the women a card, “Aren’t I so attractive. Are you falling for me, hyung?”

Jimin scoffs, rolling his eyes. “I’m going home.”

“Wait! I’m going back too. Wait, Jimin!”

Jimin leaves the store but stops outside letting Jungkook catch up.

“Oh good, I thought you might’ve actually left me behind,” Jungkook bumps his shoulder against Jimin’s playfully.

“I was going to, but then I felt bad since you’re leaving tomorrow.”

“Hehe.”

Jungkook points to an ice cream parlor across the street, “Want to grab some?”

“You want ice cream?”

“Mn.”

And hence they make a detour to grab a cone each.

“So,” Jungkook drags out the word, watching Jimin take kitten licks of his ice cream cone. His hyung was quite cute. Jungkook hadn’t realized how endearing it all was. Jimin didn’t try to be cute on purpose. His aegyo came naturally. “You going to miss me?”

“Maybe,” Jimin quips.

“Maybe?”

Jimin giggles, “Of course I will Jungkookie. I loved getting the chance to meet you again.”

Jungkook scratches his neck feeling embarrassed all of a sudden.

“Hey Jimin?”

“Hmm?”

“How come you never wrote to me?”

Jimin takes a bite of his cone, “If I had written to you, would you have written back the same way you wrote back to Tae?”

“Huh? What do you mean?”

He laughs it off, “Never mind then. Are you going to keep writing to Taehyung?”

“Yeah, but he says he’s done with using the dance monster one. He gave me a new one to use,” Jungkook finishes off his cone, wiping his hand on his pants. Jimin knew that already. Taehyung and he had discussed the topic. Since Taehyung really wanted to keep in touch with Jungkook so they had come up with the excuse to give Jungkook Taehyung’s actual contact information, “It’s unfortunate though, I kind of liked the dance monster one. It made me smile every time I sent an email.”

Jimin grins. It was strange Jungkook had never questioned why Taehyung had used dance monster all these years. He must have forgotten that it had been Jimin’s email originally. After all, he was so young when it all started.

“Hyung, you should give me your email too.”

“Yeah, you’d want it?” Jimin’s heart sang from the possibility of still being able to keep in touch with Jungkook. He might not get the chance to do it as often anymore, but he was still grateful nonetheless.

“Of course! Who else would I talk to at 2 am when I can’t sleep because I’m thinking too much?”

Oh. Blood rushes to Jimin’s face, “If that’s what you want Jungkookie then sure. I’ll always be here.”

Jimin’s heart ached.

Jungkook had given Taehyung the bracelet earlier that evening. Unfortunate for the two of them, his father had seen him do it and made a big deal out of it by bringing them both down to the living room and showing off their wrists with the matching bracelets. Everyone had cheered and congratulated the two of them.

Taehyung’s grandmother had never looked happier. She had grabbed Jungkook’s arm, making him promise to take care of her grandson especially when she wasn’t around anymore. This had resulted in Taehyung crying, and a teary eyed Jungkook grasping the hand holding on to him, and promising to do his best to do so.

The news of the two potentially coming together, and the lingering possibility of the two families joining together by marriage some time in the future had made the Jeon’s last night even more special.

As hard as Jimin tried, he didn’t think he’d make it through dinner, so he had slipped away telling only his mother. He had made up an excuse that there was an emergency and Namjoon and Jin needed his help urgently with something. He had told her he’d explain later. Hopefully he’d be able to come up with a decent explanation by the time he got back.

So now he was hiding away in Namjoon and Jin’s apartment like the coward he was. Jin hadn’t arrived from work yet, so Jimin confided in Namjoon alone for the time being. The two are out on the balcony filled with various potted plants and flower beds. Namjoon had picked up gardening a few years back, and ended up creating this little paradise.

“Jimin?” Namjoon’s studying him with a frown on his face.

“I’m okay, hyung.” Jimin doesn’t bother with the smile anymore.

“I think I’m feeling sad because despite knowing it was stupid, I wanted Jungkook to be with me. I know he doesn’t know it was me writing those letters, but my heart can’t help, but break. I know it’s an unfair desire.

“Even if he knew, it really doesn’t change anything. I see the way he looks at Taehyung, and I can’t do anything about that.” Jimin’s voice breaks as tears well up in his eyes. “This is so stupid. I don’t have a right to nor do I want to be mad or sad or jealous... So why do I still feel hurt? They’re not in the wrong, in fact if anyone is at fault, it’s me. I know. I know that. What am I supposed to do, hyung? Will it ever stop hurting so much.” Jimin’s crying now, tears streaming down his cheeks. “I’m trying so hard to be strong.”

Namjoon’s eyes the younger sadly, pulling Jimin into an embrace. He hooks his chin over Jimin’s head, holding onto the younger.

Namjoon had always felt uncomfortable initiating physical contact. So, the fact that he was willing to do this right now because he knew how much Jimin valued physical touch meant a lot to him, and perhaps the pain in his chest eases a little.

He didn’t know where along the way he had started feeling unwanted, and he didn’t know at when he had accepted it, but maybe it wasn’t completely true. How could it be, when he had someone who cared about him this much?

When Jimin’s sobs die down, he steps back, not being able to look at Namjoon yet. He places a hand on the elder’s arm, squeezing it lightly trying to express his gratitude.

Namjoon leans forward on the railing, looking at the setting sun in the horizon. “We’re actually not entitled to anything in life, no matter how much we think we are.”

Jimin follows his gaze, nodding sadly.

“We’re not even entitled to our next breath. If we breathe another breath, then it’s a gift.  Our ego keeps telling us that we are entitled, and we fall in a trap of ungratefulness and pride.” Namjoon faces Jimin again, “It’s hard, because this is all we’ve ever known, but if we’re lucky enough to realize it, we should try a bit harder to reflect on it and think about it. You got the chance to meet Jungkook again. However, if he doesn’t reciprocate your feelings, I think you need to try your best to understand that and accept it. If that’s so, then perhaps he’s not the one meant for you.”

Jimin whimpers softly. It hurts to listen to, but he trusts Namjoon’s words. He knows what he’s saying is right. He’s always respected the way Namjoon viewed the world, which is why he indulges in conversations like these.

“My goodness, Joon,” Jin’s voice interrupts.

Namjoon and Jimin startle. Jin is there, leaning against the balcony door. He makes his way over to the patio set, sitting down on one of the chairs.

“When did you get here?” Namjoon asks, a hand still clutching his chest.

“A while ago actually, but I didn’t want to interrupt,” Jin answers, gesturing for Jimin to take a seat, “Until now, that is. You’re making the poor baby so sad.”

Jimin sits down across the eldest, and Jin reaches out to grab his hand, “Now, don’t get me wrong, Jiminie. What Namjoon-ah is saying, I agree with it an extent, however…I think there’s something else you need to work on first. I know you, Jiminie. I’ve known you for quite some time now. You’re confident, but somehow you can also be one of the most self-deprecating people I know. You have just as much worth as anyone else in this world. You need to stop believing that there’s nothing desirable about you. That no one can ever love you. Whether someone shows interest in you does not determine your self-worth.”

Jimin stares at his lap. Jin squeezes the hand he’s holding in his. “So, you wrote those letters. So what? You didn’t pretend to be Taehyung with ill intent. You were a kid; you made a mistake. Hell, even grown ass adults make mistakes. Don’t fixate on it. You’ve reflected on it, and now it’s time for you to move on. You need to give yourself a break. You’re not a villain. No matter what happens with this, you have the tenacity to face it and move on.”

Jimin stares up at the sky, blinking rapidly to disperse the tears filling his eyes. “Right.”

“Of course, I’m right. That’s why I’m the hyung and you’re the baby,” Jin says matter-of-factly.

Jimin smiles, eyes still wet.

“As for your feelings, why are you bending yourself over backwards to put yourself down about that? Some feelings develop for no reason, they’re still valid. Yet you actually have a reason. You’ve written to this boy more or less once a week for the past 11 years. You’ve shared your interests, thoughts, opinions and fears. And from what you’ve told me, he’s done the same. You’ve supported each other from afar for the majority of your life. Honestly, it’s beautiful to me that you were able to fall in love with him through words. Isn’t that incredibly pure?”

Jimin thinks of all the emails he’s sent. What he felt when he sent them. What he felt when he received them. The weeks when he couldn’t wait for a reply. The weeks he had been scared and anxious because he had shared something important, leaving himself vulnerable and exposed. The weeks that felt like an email wasn’t enough.

“Why would you regret the feelings that arose from years of dedication?”

“Because I don’t have a right to develop those feelings. When I’ve been lying to them both–“

“Bullshit Jimin-ah. You’re still allowed to feel. Just because you could’ve made a better choice all those years ago as a child, doesn’t mean you deserve all this pain.”

Jimin wants desperately to believe Jin’s words. To take salvation and let go of the guilt and fear and jealousy and all the other ugliness that had surfaced these past two weeks.

“I can see it in your eyes you don’t believe me,” Jin states sadly.

“I’m sorry,” he really is apologetic. He doesn’t want them to think all their efforts tonight were in vain, “Maybe I will some day. I really appreciate you both. I don’t know how I would’ve handled it all without knowing that at least you two don’t hate me despite knowing everything.”

“We could never hate you, Jimin-ah,” Namjoon comforts, placing a hand on his shoulder, “We’ve known you for so long now. We know the type of person you are. We can see how this one tiny mistake that has somehow become so messy–we can see how much it tears at you. We really wish we could do something more to be of help.”

“No! No!” Jimin attempts to smile to cheer up his friends, “You’ve done more than enough. Seriously. Thank you.”

“C’mere, you big baby,” Jin stands up, pulling Jimin to his feet. He engulfs him in a bear hug. Jimin wraps his arms around Jin. Over Jin’s shoulder, he can see Namjoon looking at them fondly.

“You should fight for him, Jiminie,” Jin says softly in Jimin’s ear.

Jimin shakes his head against Jin’s shoulder. “I can’t. It’s pointless, especially now. Jungkook likes Taehyung. There is no fight. It’s too late. It’s too late. It’s too late.”

Jin sighs, pulling back.

“Come on,” Jin ruffles his hair, “Let’s go eat. There’s nothing that food can’t make better. Let’s go Joonie.”

Namjoon grabs onto Jin’s outstretched hand, following them inside.

Jimin is breathing heavy by the time he reaches the right terminal. Jin and Namjoon had accidently missed the right drop off, and so Jimin had gotten off a few stops over, deciding to run to the right one rather than having Jin drive all the way around again. He scans the lines at the check in and then the security. He couldn’t see them anywhere. He couldn’t see his father either. He knew only his dad had come to drop them off since his mother had work and thus, they only had one car available that day.

Jimin checked his wristwatch. Had he missed them? Had they already made it past security? If they had, then Jimin wouldn’t be able to meet them. He wouldn’t get to say goodbye.

Maybe this was better. Maybe it was safer to distance himself than risk ruining something for two very important people in his life.

“Jimin!”

Jimin snaps his head towards where his name had been called from. It was Jungkook getting up from one of the chairs in the seating area, one hand holding his passport and boarding pass, the other fisted around something he couldn’t make out. Jimin rushes over, looking around but unable to see Mr. and Mrs. Jeon anywhere.

“Jungkook!” Jimin gasps, “You’re still here.”

“I didn’t think you were coming,” Jungkook said monotonously. Face impassive, making Jimin pause.

Was he upset?

Jimin had decided to stay the night, taking Namjoon and Jin’s couch. He felt too emotionally drained to be able to face anyone else. The next day, Namjoon and Jin had let him sleep in not realizing the Jeon’s had an early take off.

“I’m sorry,” Jimin worries his lip. He hadn’t been expecting to deal with an upset Jungkook. The behavior catching him so off guard he couldn’t even offer any excuses.

“I thought I’d have to leave without getting to say goodbye.” Jungkook’s brows furrow.

“I’m really sorry.” Jimin stares at his feet.

There’s a sigh, before a small box comes into his field of vision. Jimin looks up to see that Jungkook is looking at him expectantly. “Take it. It’s for you.”

Jimin grabs it hesitantly. Jungkook tells him to open it so he does as instructed, opening the box to discover a ring. A single three-band ring. The same one he had been studying in the jewelry shop yesterday.

“Jungkook?!” Jimin doesn’t know what to say. What was going on?

“It’s for you. You didn’t want a pair of bracelets, but I saw you looking at it so I thought you’d like it. You have a lot of rings on your desk so I know you like rings.”

“That doesn’t mean–I can’t accept this.” He snaps the lid shut, holding it out for the other to take back.

Jungkook frowns, “Why not?”

“You–I?” Jimin gapes like a fish. Unable to express how baffling the youngest’s actions were, especially when he was acting so casual about it. “It’s too much.”

“It’s a simple band?”

“Jungkook,” Jimin sighs studying the box still in his hand with Jungkook making no move to take it back, “Why are you doing this?”

“I wanted to get it for you,” Jungkook says it so easily.

Why couldn’t he see how absurd it was. Was Jimin the crazy one? Was it because Jimin had feelings for him that his judgement was too clouded to tell if it really was no big deal, but no? Surely this was actually crazy regardless of the feelings involved.

“I didn’t get you anything,” Jimin mumbles helplessly, “It’s a bit burdensome to think about accepting this.”

“I’m going to be honest,” Jungkook crosses his arms, “It hurts me that you don’t think we’re close enough for me to give you a goodbye present.”

“Oh.” So that’s what this was. A goodbye present. Jimin lowers his arm. The box feeling heavy in his palm.

Jungkook steps forward, wrapping his arms around Jimin. Jimin stands there for a long time before lifting one hand to pat Jungkook on the back. Surely that was appropriate. Jimin wasn’t doing anything beyond friendly right?

“Thank you for coming to see me off.”

Jimin can’t get any words out. Blinking rapidly to clear away any tears before Jungkook let’s him go. He would give himself away if Jungkook saw them.

Jimin’s hand stills on Jungkook’s lower back, and for a moment they just hold each other, before Jungkook pulls back.

Jungkook glances at the giant clock at the end of the terminal, “I really should go. Getting past security will take awhile, and mum and dad are already waiting.”

Jimin nods, taking a step back.

Jungkook opens, but then closes his mouth.

Jimin cocks his head.

“What will I do if I miss you?” His eyes betray how terrified he feels asking that.

Jimin’s jaw goes slack.

“Then close your eyes and think of me. I’ll be there,” Jimin replies hurriedly, not wanting Jungkook to feel embarrassed.

Only now... Jimin feels goosebumps erupt all over his body. Had he really said something so shameless?

Jungkook smiles. The corner of his eyes crinkling. It was the first genuine smile he’d received that day, and it was beautiful. Jimin felt his heart melting.

“Okay then. I will!”

Jimin chuckles, face still burning. He takes another step back, “Go. Don’t miss your flight.”

Jungkook nods, backing away, “Bye, Jimin.”

Jimin waves his hand, clutching the ring box a little tighter with his other, “Goodbye, Jungkook.”

Something flickers in the younger’s face before he’s turning around and walking away.

Jimin considers waiting to watch him get past security, but he doesn’t want to keep Namjoon and Jin waiting. They’re probably loitering outside in the pick up spots like Jimin had asked, not wanting them to waste money on the overpriced airport parking.

Jungkook looks back to see Jimin’s retreating figure leave the building, and he feels funny. He frowns at the door that closes behind Jimin, not quite sure what he was feeling.

Chapter Text

Jungkook comes out of his room, handing over the photo he had been trying to find.

“That’s me in the middle, in case you couldn’t tell. Taehyung’s on the left, and Jimin’s the one on the right.”

Yoongi raises a brow, “Your luck never fails to amaze me, kid.”

They’re in Jungkook’s apartment. Yoongi had come over to check in since they hadn’t seen each other in over two weeks.

Jungkook takes a seat beside Yoongi on the couch. “What?”

“I mean you really lucked out, his face is literally perfect.”

He scoffs, “It’s not like that.”

“It must be because you haven’t mentioned Jimin even once,” Yoongi smirks, staring at the right side of the picture where Jungkook assumes his gaze is fixated on Jimin.

He regrets choosing that picture now. It was a picture taken by Jimin’s father from the beach trip. Jimin and he both were in just swimming trunks, and he didn’t think Jimin would appreciate a stranger ogling his abs.

Jungkook leans forward, plucking the photo out of Yoongi’s hands.

“Okay...? I guess I was done looking,” Yoongi’s hands are frozen in the air where he had been holding the picture. Jungkook rolls his eyes at the dramatics.

“You know I’ve already seen pictures of him, right? Although they weren’t quite as risqué as that one,” Yoongi leans back with a pleased smile at riling up the other.

“What?”

“Mmhmm,” Yoongi nods fixing his blond fringe, “I got his pictures at the beginning of the year. His mom sent pictures to your mom to give to my mum because since we’re both gay apparently that’s good enough to try to set us up.”

Jungkook gapes, “You–you didn’t tell me that?”

“Yeah well, I was interested, but it didn’t mean he’d be interested in me. Nothing was set in stone or anything. There wasn’t much to say.”

Jungkook blinks owlishly, “You’re interested...in Jimin?” He waves the photo in his hand.

“Yeah. I mean he seems nice, he’s got really pretty eyes, and a kind smile. I don’t know too much about him as a person, but I wouldn’t mind trying to get to know him.”

Jungkook mulls that over. If there was one thing Yoongi very rarely talked about, it was his feelings. So, for him to say that so bluntly was certainly uncommon.

“Uhhhh...”

Yoongi shrugs, “Eh, mum got a call from your mom while y’all were away saying that Jimin wasn’t interested in pursuing a relationship. So that’s that... maybe if I ever get the chance to meet him, and if he was willing then we could see where it goes.”

Yoongi checks his wristwatch, “Anyway forget about all that, so what’s he like?” Yoongi gestures to the picture in Jungkook’s hand.

“Oh–uh, he’s amazing... he’s kind, and strong... he understands me so well. Like he makes me feel comfortable, it’s so easy to tell him what I’m feeling. He’s so thoughtful and caring. And very hard working and disciplined as well. He’s also really freaking adorable? I don’t know if he realizes how quick people become endeared by him,” Jungkook grins, “Yeah, Jimin’s pretty amazing.”

Yoongi blinks, “Jimin?”

Jungkook nods.

He laughs, “And here I was thinking you were talking about, Taehyung.”

Jungkook’s easy smile slips off his face. The statement making him want to fidget in his seat. He laughs awkwardly, “Oh I thought since we were talking about Jimin and you... being interested in him, you were asking what he’s like.”

“Oh nah,” Yoongi gets up, fixing his pants, “I meant forget all that as in let’s move on to the man you’re so infatuated with.”

Jungkook gets up too, “You’re leaving?”

“Yeah I need to head out. I have to get up early tomorrow to finish a design. The deadline is coming up.”

Jungkook walks Yoongi to the door, “What are you working on right now? A complex?”

“Nah,” Yoongi bends down to put on his shoes, “It’s just a private home design. The couple contacted me with some last minute changes so I have to work them in.”

Jungkook hums. “Call me when you’re done with this project. Let’s go out.”

Yoongi nods, “It was nice seeing you, Kook. Glad you got back safely.”

“Glad to be back,” Jungkook smiles, “I’ll see you later?”

“Yeah, you can tell me more about Taehyung then.” Yoongi steps outside, “Good luck with the BH meeting.”

“Thanks! Drive safe.”

“See ya,” Yoongi calls over his shoulder.

[January]

Jungkook is driving home after presenting his finished project to the executive designer. It had been a large project and Jungkook had slaved over it for two months. It felt good to finally be done with it.

He wonders if he had received any emails from Taehyung or Jimin. The emails had changed. They were fewer in number, and resembled how Taehyung communicated in real life a bit more. Thoughts resembling streams of consciousness, a touch of chaos, and interesting word choices that Jungkook found adorably entertaining. Jungkook had marvelled at the change attributing it to Taehyung feeling more comfortable after meeting in person which reflected in the way he formed emails now.

It had been two weeks since he had received an email from Taehyung, and nearly a month since he had gotten one from Jimin. He knew Taehyung had been busy with school and applying to graduate school, so it made sense why he wasn’t contacting him, but he had no idea why Jimin hadn’t replied. Maybe writing emails was not his thing...

Jungkook pulls into the underground parking of his apartment complex. He missed Jimin. He missed them both.

He had surprised himself at how close he had gotten to Jimin in merely two weeks. Especially after that serendipitous night when they had talked under the stars. Where Jungkook had dropped his guard unexpectedly, letting go without overthinking things.

All his life his thoughts had been consumed with Taehyung, but he had been shocked at how easy it was to fall into rhythm with Jimin as well. To find someone else that it was so easy to be with.

“What will I do if I miss you?”

“Then close your eyes and think of me. I’ll be there.”

Jungkook smiles to himself. He’s grateful the other hadn’t made fun of him for asking such a ridiculous question. In fact Jimin had responded with something as equally cheesy so he hadn’t felt embarrassed.

Where normally he’d cringe at the response, now he couldn’t help but feel amused by the notion.

Standing in front of his door, he pauses to close his eyes.

He thinks of the warm bright smile, the eyes that shift into crescents when he laughs, and the way he falls onto whoever was beside him if he finds something particularly funny.

He remembers the warmth of having another presence in his bed, not nearly as uncomfortable as he would’ve thought.

He missed it all.

He sighs, unlocking the door. Somehow returning to his empty apartment seems a lot more unpleasant than it had moments ago.

He enters his apartment to find a figure standing in the middle of his living room. He drops his briefcase, his heart rate spiking. He swears, clutching his chest.

“Surprise!” Jimin screams, throwing his hands up.

“You scared the shit out of me,” Jungkook exclaims, but his face hurts from how wide he’s smiling.

He rushes forward, briefcase and open door forgotten, encasing Jimin in his arms. He buries his head in the older’s neck, squeezing him tight, relishing how his bigger frame engulfs the smaller man.

Jimin wraps his arms around Jungkook’s waist to return the hug. “Think of it as payback for that first night we shared a room.” His twinkling laughter fills Jungkook’s ears, and Jungkook hugs him tighter. He’s laughing too.

“I can’t believe you’re here! I was just thinking about you!”

Jimin giggles, pulling back, and Jungkook reluctantly lets go.

“I told you, if you close your eyes and remember me I’ll be here,” Jimin winks.

Jungkook laughs feeling giddy. He closes his door, flicking the lock into place. Bending down to take off his shoes beside the unfamiliar pair that he assumes are Jimin’s, he picks up his briefcase on his way up.

“What are you doing here?” He asks, tossing the briefcase full of designs unceremoniously on top of the armchair. He leads Jimin to the kitchen with a hand on the small of his back.

“Well, I have a med school interview with UCSF and UC Davis!” Jimin smiles proudly.

“Oh my god, Jimin,” Jungkook wraps his arms around him again, “That’s amazing! Congratulations!” Jungkook didn’t necessarily consider himself a skinship type of person, but he couldn’t help himself. He was so happy, and perhaps he had missed the physical touch just a tad.

Jimin giggles bashfully against his shoulder, “I mean I haven’t gotten in yet, but yeah I’m really grateful for the interviews.”

“I didn’t even know you were planning on applying here?” Jungkook asks pulling back. He moves to grab some water for the two of them.

“I didn’t want to say anything because I really didn’t think I was going to get secondaries and an interview,” Jimin thanks him for the water as Jungkook hands him a glass, “Once I found out, I wanted to surprise you so I asked your parents not to tell you anything.”

Jungkook nods, “Is that how you got in?”

“Yes! Your mom was kind enough to lend me a spare key. I hope you don’t mind me showing up out of nowhere.”

Jungkook rolls his eyes, “Don’t be ridiculous. This is the best thing that’s happened all year.”

“It’s literally January,” Jimin snorts, drinking his water.

“Only proves my point, really,” Jungkook replies sagely, “When are the interviews?”

“UCSF is in two days, and US Davis is two days after that.”

“I’m assuming they’re in the morning?”

“Yeah, I have to be there for check in at 7 am.”

“Okay so we can drive down tomorrow night, or really early the day of. It’s only a 40-minute drive, but with traffic it might take up to an hour.”

Jimin raises a brow, “Oh Jungkookie, you don’t have to drive me down. I can take a taxi. I’m sure you’re busy.”

“Nonsense, I’ll drive you to them both,” Jungkook says firmly, “Plus I just finished a project and I won’t have another one coming up for at least a week.”

Jimin gnaws at his bottom lip, “Are you sure?”

“Of course. Where’s your suitcase?” Jungkook asks looking around his place. Had Jimin already settled in in his room? He hoped not, he hadn’t had the time to clean his room and it was a bit of a mess right now.

“At your parents’ place. I dropped it off when I went to pick up the key.”

Jungkook cocks his head, “Why?”

Jimin looks just as confused as he feels, “What do you mean?”

“You weren’t planning on staying with me?” Jungkook asks incredulously.

“Oh–I–” Jimin runs a hand through his hair, “I wasn’t going to impose on you like that. Especially, when I didn’t even tell you I was coming.”

Jungkook groans, startling him, “Jiminie, you’ll never be imposing. You can be so silly sometimes, really. I’ll call my dad to tell him to drop off your stuff in the morning on his way to work.”

“I feel bad,” Jimin mumbles.

Jungkook shrugs, “What should we have for dinner? You want to go out or we can order in if you’re tired tonight?”

Jimin mulls it over, “Maybe eat in tonight? I am a little exhausted.”

“Sure, what are you in the mood for?”

“You can decide.”

“No no, you’re the guest.”

“Uh...sushi?”

Jungkook nods, taking out the flyers of local Japanese restaurants. “Anything in particular you want? Or should I just order a bunch of my favourite dishes?”

“Yeah go ahead, you can choose. I’m not picky when it comes to Japanese food,” Jimin moves to the sink, grabbing Jungkook’s empty glass along the way. He washes them and places the clean glasses on the drying rack. “Do you mind if I take a quick shower before the food gets here?”

“Not at all,” Jungkook dials the number as he shows Jimin to his room. He holds the phone to his ear, while pointing out the door leading to the bathroom, “That’s my bathroom. You can grab whatever you want from my closet. Oh, and there should be clean towels on the top shelf.”

“Thanks.”

“Not a problem. Hi, yes, I wanted to place an order for pick up–actually do you deliver? Yes, can I have it delivered, please. Thank you.” Jungkook heads out to the kitchen to place the order.

Jungkook knocks on the bathroom door, “Jiminie, the food’s here.”

“Coming!”

Jungkook leaves to grab plates and glasses.

“Shoot sorry, I took so long. How much was the bill?” Jimin asks grabbing his wallet off of the coffee table.

Jungkook faces the other with the intent to make it clear Jimin wouldn’t be paying for anything, but his heart stutters in his chest and his mind goes blank.

Jimin is rummaging through his wallet, standing in the middle of the living room, drowning in one of Jungkook’s hoodies and a pair of shorts, hair wet from the shower. There’s nothing abnormal or unexpected about the scene before him, so Jungkook doesn’t understand why his brain is malfunctioning.

He clears his throat, “I already paid.”

“Yeah I figured, since they let you keep the food,” Jimin teases, “But how much was it? I’ll pay you back.”

Jungkook shakes his head, “No I meant you don’t have to pay me back. You don’t have to worry about the expenses while you’re here.”

“Jungkook,” Jimin frowns, “I will not be exploiting you like this. Plus, I’m the hyung, I should be the one treating you. Not to mention you’re letting me crash here.”

“Okay yes sure you’re the hyung, but which one of us actually has a job?”

“You’re doing co-op, Kookie. That’s hardly enough money for you to be wasting it on me.”

“It’s a well-paying co-op. And why do you keep saying it like that? It’s not a waste, hyung. Spending money to make you happy, it’s not a waste.”

Jimin’s brows remain furrowed.

Jungkook sighs, “Would you like coca cola? I think I might have some Sprite cans too.”

“Either’s fine,” Jimin mutters.

Jungkook’s heart clenches. He was trying to do a good thing. Trying to make Jimin happy. So why was it that all he really accomplished was a frowning Jimin.

“I’m sorry I made you upset,” Jungkook whispers, apologies or words of sentiment were always so awkward for him, “I just wanted to take care of you. I didn’t mean to make you feel uncomfortable.”

“Do you do this for all of your friends?” Jimin asks playing with a ring on his finger, a silver and black band. It was the ring Jungkook had gotten him. Jimin actually wore it.

Jungkook tries to focus because Jimin had asked him a question, “Uh...”

First of all, Jungkook didn’t really have friends. Other than Jimin and Taehyung (if you could put Taehyung in the friends category), the only other real friend he had was Yoongi, and since Yoongi was two years older than him their dynamic had always been Yoongi taking care of Jungkook and rarely the other way around.

Now that he thinks about it, he should do something nice for Yoongi at some point...

“Er–no,” Jungkook admits, “But to be fair I have like one other friend, and he’s two years older than me and a really freaking successful architect, so I let him baby me.”

“So the reason you’re not letting me pay is because I’m not a super successful doctor?” Jimin looks unimpressed, but his tone is much lighter.

Jungkook grins, “Yet! Once you are, you can spoil me all you want, hyung!”

Jimin gives him one of those reserved smiles that make Jungkook feel like he’s done or said something wrong. “Well by then you wouldn’t be mine to spoil, no? You and Taehyung would have each other to look after.”

Jungkook’s gut twists. “You could–you could still spoil me?” He stutters, frowning.

“It wouldn’t be my responsibility to, if anything as Tae’s platonic soulmate my loyalties would lie to him,” Jimin mulls.

Jungkook pouts, “Or you could spoil both of us?”

Jimin shakes his head, “Nope sorry, I’ll be drowning in debt for a long time. So, if you want to be spoiled you’ve gotta take it when I offer.” Jimin holds up a fifty-dollar bill in his hand.

“...I feel like I’ve been played.”

Jimin grins holding out the bill, but Jungkook shakes his head making no move to take it, “That’s too much, and I told you I already paid. I’m not taking your money.”

“Fine,” Jimin stuffs the money back into his wallet, “Then I’m getting the next one.”

“If you’re fast enough sure,” Jungkook shrugs going to grab their drinks.

“Why are you like this?” Jimin shakes his head, but he’s smiling again. So Jungkook counts it as a win.

“Come on, the food’s getting cold.”

Jimin spends the entire next day studying for his interviews. After dinner, Jungkook watches him, continue to study, over the top of his sketch pad.

Jimin’s hunched over his notes about various potential topics that could come up during the interview, quietly practicing the answers under his breath.

Jungkook puts down his sketch book and offers to help him with a mock interview, and after a lot of stubborn pestering the elder reluctantly accepts.

Jimin pretends to enter the room, shaking Jungkook’s hand with a firm grip. Jungkook tries not to snicker at how tiny the others hands actually are. He can see the tension in Jimin’s posture and he doesn’t want to aggravate the stress.

Jungkook looks over the list of questions Jimin had handed him before, “So, Mr. Jimin Park let’s get started. Tell me a little bit about yourself?”

Jimin starts off nervous and reserved, but by the end of the first few questions he’s easing into the conversation. He’s smiling more which Jungkook is convinced will alone be enough to charm the panel of interviewers.

“Tell us about your ideal partner,” Jungkook asks with a straight face. Jimin had mentioned that despite all the practice, there would be questions he wouldn’t be prepared for and would need to come up with decent responses on the spot.

Jimin raises a brow, the corners of his lips twitching, “Mr. Jeon, I would like to respectfully refrain from answering this question. I believe there should be some separation between a professional and private life, and furthermore I truly believe that the response to this question would not provide you with any better of an insight as to whether or not I’m a good candidate for your school.”

Jungkook whistles. Damn, he thinks. He didn’t realize Jimin could be so assertive. This mock interview was giving him a glimpse of the Jimin that people in his field would see. Someone smart and well-spoken. He had a presence that was difficult to ignore. No doubt he had worked hard for his dream for many years, but he didn’t exude cockiness or overconfidence. Somehow in all his answers, Jimin managed to display humility and a quality that made him seem real and genuine. He didn’t pretend to know all the answers in the world. He acknowledged that he had his own biases and shortcomings that could be hindering his outlook. Yet despite all the stuff he didn’t know, he gave well-structured answers to the best of his abilities.

Jungkook would be lying if he didn’t say he was a little in awe of the older in that moment.

Jimin clears his throat quietly, “Will that be all, Mr. Jeon?”

Jungkook composes himself, getting back in the role. It was hard not to pretend to stroke his nonexistent beard while pretending to be some old-timey professor or doctor.

“Yes, unless you have any questions for the board?”

“Do you want to go get ice cream?”

Jungkook giggles, “So much for keeping your professional and personal lives separate, Mr. Park.”

Jimin laughs, shrugging, “It’s a thank you for doing this for me, Jungkookie.”

Jungkook’s face warms, “Let’s go then, there’s this really nice gelato place nearby that I think you’ll like!”

Jungkook shuts off his alarm quickly, not wanting to wake up Jimin just yet. He gently maneuvers himself out of Jimin’s hold.

Jungkook can’t remember the last time he woke up this early. It was still dark out, and it would still be awhile before the winter sun rose.

He drags his feet to the bathroom, taking a quick shower and changing into black jeans and a lose black top.

Heading to the kitchen, he takes out eggs, bread, some sausages, and a frying pan. He hums softly to himself as he puts together breakfast for two. Jimin wakes up just as he’s plating the food.

“G’morning,” Jimin rasps entering the kitchen, eyes half closed, grabbing a glass of water.

“‘Morning, I made breakfast,” Jungkook puts down the plates on the tiny dinning table.

“Thank you, Kookie,” Jimin rubs the sleep out of his eyes. He marvels at the spread before him, “You woke up so early to do this.”

Jungkook puts down a jug of water on the table because Jimin didn’t like juice, and takes a seat across from him.

“You were tossing and turning a lot last night, so I thought I’d let you sleep in a little longer.”

“Thank you.”

Jimin is subdued and Jungkook can feel the tension radiating from him. He nods to the plate, gesturing for Jimin to start eating.

After breakfast, Jungkook takes the dishes and let’s Jimin get ready for his interview.

The dishes don’t take long, and so Jungkook hovers around his living room trying to pass the time. He’s starting to feel anxious too and he’s not even the one who has to get interviewed. Jungkook wonders what Jimin will do if he doesn’t get in. Would he try again, or would he go to medical school back in Korea?

This gets him thinking about what it would be like if Jimin went to school here. What it would be like to have him here all the time, and not just for ten days. What it would be like if Jimin and he lived together. He’s always wondered what it would be like to have a roommate, to have someone to come home to, and he can’t help but feel excited at the thought of returning home to Jimin.

Jimin checks himself over in Jungkook’s bathroom mirror. His black hair is styled out of his face, framing his forehead nicely. The puffiness from the restless sleep had gone down thankfully, and his eyes were starting to look more alert. He had opted out of wearing any makeup for the interviews, so he was grateful his skin didn’t look bad today.

His black suit and white dress shirt hugged his small frame nicely, the thin black tie completing the look. He left the suit jacket unbuttoned for the time being.

This was it. He was ready for the interview. At least appearance wise he was.

They’re in Jungkook’s Mercedes heading down the I-80, listening to the radio play music Jimin wasn’t familiar with. The car is really nice, and Jimin’s beginning to accept that Jungkook had been right and he did make a lot of money.

Jungkook is tapping his fingers on the steering wheel. Things had been relatively silent all morning between them.

“So, hyung,” Jungkook finally says after the traffic has slowed down considerably. Jimin would start to worry but they had left earlier than expected, so they had some leeway, “Would you mind if I invited that friend of mine I mentioned earlier for dinner tonight?”

Jimin is confused until something dawns on him, “Did my mom put you up to this?”

Jungkook looks sheepish, “To be fair, she may have called and guilt tripped me into doing this, but he is also my best friend and a really nice guy.”

“Min Yoongi,” Jimin remembers the name Jungkook’s mom had mentioned. He glances at Jungkook who’s focused on the road. It’s not like anything would happen between him and Jungkook, and he was here in America. When else would he get the chance to meet this man that everyone spoke so highly of? This could be a casual friendly thing if they didn’t hit it off, Jungkook could serve as a buffer. Plus, this way he could tell his mom he had tried, and then maybe she’d leave the idea alone.

“Okay,” Jimin squeaks.

Jungkook hazards a glance at Jimin, “Yeah? You sure? There’s no pressure, hyung. You can say no, I haven’t even asked him yet.”

“No, I think I’d like to meet this Min Yoongi,” Jimin insists.

“Okay... then I guess I’ll invite him while you’re doing the interview.”

Jimin nods, going back to looking out of the window.

They arrive at the destination with twenty minutes to spare.

Jimin gets out in a daze, breathing getting faster now that he was here.

“Jiminie,” Jungkook appears in front of him, “You did so well yesterday, you’re going to do well today too. No matter what happens, it doesn’t change the fact that you’re amazing.”

Jimin nods, unable to answer.

“Hey,” Jungkook says softly, stepping in closer and smoothing his hand over Jimin’s suit. He adjusts Jimin’s tie, “I forgot to say it earlier, but you look beautiful.”

Jimin gulps, he steps back looking away. He mumbles a flustered thank you.

“Good luck,” Jungkook moves back, “I’ll probably go to a cafe or something to kill time. Call me when you’re all done?”

“Okay. I will. Thanks, Jungkook.”

“You’re welcome,” Jungkook waves getting into the car. Jungkook waves again, pulling out of the drop off.

Jimin shoulders his backpack, and walks into the building to find the check in.

Jimin is in the bathroom, right before the interviews begin. He had met some of the other candidates in the lounge where there were some snacks laid out. He had made polite conversation, but he felt like he was getting sick so he left to find the bathroom.

The bathroom is empty save himself, and he decides this was a good place as any. Jimin sighs, willing his breathing to slow down. He wasn’t going to sit down on the floor to do it in his new suit, so he stays standing to complete the rest of the ritual. He consciously relaxes his shoulders and unclenches his fists. Taking a breath and closing his eyes, he begins to sing a familiar melody. The melody he’s learnt to associate with a sense of safety. The melody Jungkook had shared with him to help him with his anxiety.

He sings the melody once, already feeling a calm settle over him. Then he sings it once again for good luck.

He opens his eyes, and he realizes he’s no longer alone. His eyes meet Jungkook’s in the bathroom mirror.

Jimin whirls around, heart in his throat.

Jungkook’s standing in the doorway, holding Jimin’s phone in one hand.

Oh god no no no. Not now. No please no.

Jungkook’s face is twisted in confusion and he’s shaking gently. He’s also breathing heavy.

“J-Jungkook–” Jimin flounders for something to say.

Jimin can see it in his eyes the moment Jungkook figures it out.

Jungkook knows.

Chapter Text

Jungkook thrums his fingers on the table as he hums the melody he had created as a teenager, studying Taehyung’s face carefully. He didn’t want to miss a second of his reaction.

Taehyung turned in his seat to face Jungkook, listening to the melody that was loud enough for the two of them to hear, but quiet enough as to not disturb the other people in the outdoor cafe.

“You have a beautiful voice, Jungkook.”

Jungkook’s cheeks burned. That had been what Taehyung had said in the email too.

“You could be an idol with your looks and voice.”

Jungkook chuckles bashfully, “I don’t know about that.”

“I’m sure you’d make people around the world go crazy if you did. Who could say no to this face!” Taehyung grabs his cheeks and squishes. Jungkook can’t help but giggle.

Taehyung lets go and turns to his menu, “This Oreo milkshakes sounds so good. I’m really in the mood for it today.”

“Oh–yeah sure,” Jungkook opens his drinks menu, “Hyung... do you not remember that melody?”

Taehyung studies Jungkook with an unreadable expression, “Should I?”

Jungkook shrugs, reading the words on the menu, but not registering them.

“Well my motto in life is, how can you make new memories if you live in the past.”

Jungkook laughs because he doesn’t know what else he’s supposed to, and they both go back to deciding what to order.

Something heavy settles in his chest though. Jungkook didn’t know what kind of reaction he was expecting, but he didn’t know they’d move on so quickly. Maybe he was stupid for placing so much importance on that melody alone. Taehyung didn’t even bat an eye...

Jungkook stares at the pale, wide eyed Jimin standing in front of him.

His heart is beating out of his chest. The blood roaring in his ear is deafening.

His mind is a chaotic mess of thoughts and memories that are being forced to the forefront of his mind. Things that he hadn’t even realized had been bugging him were starting to become glaringly obvious.

Like how natural it was for Jimin to call him kookie or Jungkookie when Taehyung preferred to use Jungkook.

Taehyung not recognizing the melody. Taehyung not remembering tiny details from the emails exchanged over the years.

Hoseok mentioning he competed in dance. He was also much closer to Jimin than Taehyung who supposedly took dance his entire high school career.

Jimin claiming Taehyung was forgetful when he had forgotten about the meeting with BH, but Jimin had remembered.

The changes in email style that he had attributed to a change in their relationship, meeting in person, and growing closer.

And overall how easy it was for Jimin to understand Jungkook and his feelings. Like they had known each other for a long time.

That night under the stars when he had asked Jimin about Taehyung he had mentioned admiring how Taehyung is able to approach people, not being subject to societal pressures. He had been distracted by the possibility of Jimin being in love with Taehyung that he hadn’t realized it wasn’t coherent with the ‘Taehyung’ he knew from his emails. The one that claimed to be shy when meeting knew people, who worried perhaps a bit too much about people’s opinions.

On their own, Jungkook could’ve come up with explanations to dismiss each of those discrepancies, but together...together they revealed a pattern. A pattern in which it was clear that the one who had exchanged all those emails with Jungkook hadn’t been Taehyung. It had been Jimin.

It had been Jimin all along.

“Taehyung is different from his letter,” Jungkook whispers, stepping closer to the older. “Taehyung is different from your letters.”

He‘s struggling to reign in his emotions. Finding out that something he had thought to be true all his life had actually been a lie was like having the ground ripped out from underneath him. He was flailing around trying to make sense of it all.

“It was you,” he growls.

Jimin steps back, eyes becoming glassy.

The fear and fragility in Jimin’s eyes help ground Jungkook. He immediately feels bad. No matter what, he wasn’t the type of person to make others cry on purpose, so he forces himself to calm down a notch.

“If I had written to you, would you have responded the same way you wrote back to Tae?”

Jungkook hadn’t understood what Jimin meant back then, but he was starting to realize what the elder had meant or was trying to say...

“I’m so sorry,” Jimin has his head bowed, no longer able to hold Jungkook’s gaze.

“Why did you lie to me? Why did you do this?” Despite all his efforts his voice cracks, betraying his inner turmoil.

The door opens and some blond guy pops his head in, “Oh, Jimin. They said you’re on deck. You’ll be going in next.”

“Oh, thank you,” Jimin gives the man a weak smile. The stranger nods, closing the door behind him as he leaves.

Jimin stares somewhere off to Jungkook’s side still unable to make eye contact, “I have to–I have to go. I’m sorry.”

Jungkook stops him when he tries to go around him. He grabs Jimin’s hand and places the cellphone into it.

“Call me when you finish.” It comes out gruff, and Jungkook cringes inwardly. A part of him feels bad knowing this was the last thing the elder needed before such an important interview regarding his career.

There’s a sharp intake of breath before Jimin is rushing away, wiping at his face.

Jungkook’s heart feels heavy as watches the man leave. He needed answers, but at the same time a part of him was screaming at the universe for its timing. If Jimin didn’t have a good interview now... Jungkook doesn’t think he’d be able to live with that.

Jungkook is back in his car parked in the building’s parking lot. He doesn’t feel like going to a cafe now.

His head is pulsing. Jungkook rubs circles into his temples, trying to ease the pain.

Jungkook finds himself going over everything, from the emails to all of his interactions with both Jimin and Taehyung.

However, at the end of it all he feels more confused than before. He had already been wary of his feelings for Taehyung, but now to realize that the person from the emails had been someone else completely. The same emails that played such a huge part of him being convinced he was in love with Taehyung in the first place. Where did that leave him now?

Jimin had been the one to write to him. Jimin. It had been Jimin.

Something settled in his stomach. He felt small because he didn’t want to admit to himself what it was. What kind of person did that make him? What did that say about the validity of his feelings? How could they change so easily?

He pulls at his hair. How had he not realized it earlier? How had he not realized immediately?

Jungkook leans his chair as far back as he can. He places an arm over his eyes blocking out the increasing brightness of the rising sun.

Jungkook startles awake. The sun was now high in the sky, and his car considerably warmer. What time was it?

He blanches when he sees it’s already 3 pm.

It had been 8 hours since Jimin had gone in. Surely it was over by now. He checks his phone, but doesn’t see any missed calls.

His gut wrenches. He doesn’t have a good feeling about this. Not when they left things the way they did.

He calls Jimin, but he doesn’t pick up.

Jungkook runs inside the building. He looks around, not sure where to go. Eventually he decides on asking a student passing by.

“Excuse me?”

The girl stops, turning towards him and doing a double take.

“Oh–uh–yes?” She tucks a strand of hair behind her hair.

“Hey, do you know if the med school interviews are over for the day?”

“Oh! Uh–usually they’re over by noon after the campus tour.”

“Oh,” that meant Jimin had finished three hours ago. Why hadn’t he called him?

“Are you looking for someone?”

Jungkook turns to the girl again, “Yeah, actually. A guy named Jimin? He’s this tall, Korean, black hair. He’s wearing a black suit with a white shirt.”

“Oh, sorry. I don’t think I saw him around.” To be fair the girl really did look sorry, but Jungkook couldn’t help feel disappointed.

“Maybe you can check the cafeteria, or the library, or maybe the courtyard,” she points out how to get to the different locations.

“Oh okay! Thanks!” Jungkook offers her a smile over his shoulder as he’s already running away.

“Y-you’re welcome!” She waves timidly after him.

Jimin hadn’t been in the library, at least not on the main floor, he hadn’t been in the cafeteria, and he wasn’t in any of the bathrooms either. Jungkook was starting to feel uneasy. Hoping to see the familiar figure materialize before him, his panic grows as his fruitless search continues.

The regret is starting to gnaw at him. Why had he been so harsh earlier? Why couldn’t he have let Jimin explain himself? What if he had thrown Jimin so off by his anger that he failed his interview? What if the man was crying somewhere right now?

Jungkook’s chest twists at the thought.

Jungkook finally makes it to the courtyard looking around frantically. The last bit of hope he had of finding the elder dissipated at how empty the place was save for a student who clearly wasn’t Jimin.

“Jimin,” he whispers, his face breaking and two tears burn down his cheeks, “Where did you go?”

He fumbles getting his phone out, and trying the elder one more time.

The phone rings, and as it continues to ring with no response the helplessness starts taking over. What if something had happened to Jimin–

“Hello?” The answering voice is low and hoarse, but it’s Jimin. He’s there on the other side of the line.

“Hyung?” Jungkook cries into the phone, “I’m sorry.”

“I’m...”

Jungkook wipes the tears using the back of his hands. “Where are you?”

“...I don’t know.”

“Are you still on campus?” Jungkook asks already making his way back towards the parking lot.

“I–I don’t know? I started walking, and I wasn’t paying attention. I don’t–“ Jimin takes an unsteady breath.

“Which way did you go once you came out of the building?” Jungkook asks running faster as the parking lot comes into view.

“Right.”

“Look around, describe where you are.” Jungkook unlocks the car, sliding in and turning on the ignition. He holds the phone between his ear and shoulder as he drives out of the parking spot. He grabs the seatbelt one handedly, struggling slightly to buckle in.

“There’s trees on both sides of the road. Uh I think I passed a white building a while back. I can’t make out any other buildings in the area.”

“Just stay where you are,” Jungkook presses a little harder on the accelerator, “I’ll find you.”

Jungkook almost slams on the brakes when he sees him. He pulls over beside the curb where Jimin is sitting on the grass next to the sidewalk, and parks the car.

He rushes out, and around the car. Jimin clambers to his feet, dusting off his behind.

Jungkook slams into Jimin, pulling the smaller man against himself in a tight embrace.

“Where did you go? I was so worried,” Jungkook cries into Jimin’s neck.

Jimin’s arms wrap around Jungkook as well, holding onto him just as desperately, “I am so incredibly sorry for hurting you Jungkookie. I never meant for things to get so... I’m so sorry. You have to believe I never meant to hurt you.”

He does believe him. Jungkook knew Jimin wasn’t the type of person that took advantage of people like that, but... he also thought he knew the person he was writing to for all those years, and that had turned out to be not true.

Jungkook pulls back, “Please, tell me the truth.”

Jimin nods, his arms falling to his side where his hands were clenching and unclenching.

“I–it was always–I wrote that first email. Taehyung was easily distracted as a kid so he didn’t get around to writing back. I knew you’d be waiting for a response, and honestly I just wanted to write to you so bad. I always liked you. I know with my family moving into our neighbourhood late, you and Taehyung already being friends, and plus you were so shy... we weren’t close, but I wanted to be your friend from the first day we met. So when I saw the chance, I took it.”

Jimin looked like he was waiting for a punishment for throwing out his veggies without anyone realizing when he knew he wasn’t allowed to play video games until he finished them (and no Jungkook wasn’t speaking from experience).

“Why didn’t you sign off using your own name?”

Jimin twists his hands, “I didn’t think you’d write back if it wasn’t Taehyung. I mean you wrote to him so I assumed you wanted to hear back from him not me...”

The anger was slowly dissipating to the point Jungkook wasn’t even sure why he had reacted so strongly in the first place.

“All those years though... why didn’t you say anything earlier?”

Jimin looks resigned, “The more time that went by, and the more emails we exchanged the more it felt like I couldn’t tell you. The more I was convinced it was too late to tell the truth. And to be honest the longer we talked, the easier it got to pretend...I started signing off with just hyung, and some days I even forgot I wasn’t the person you thought I was.”

It made sense. Why did it make sense? Jungkook sighed. This was the man he had known all his life, whether he knew it or not. So, yes, it made sense; yes, he understood. He understood why this had happened, and why Jimin had continued the lie for so long, but there was still one more thing bugging him, and he was praying that he wasn’t right...

“Okay, but when were you planning on coming clean? I mean if I hadn’t found out by accident, when were you going to tell me?”

Jimin looks at him, brows furrowed slightly in confusion, “I–I told you I wasn’t–it got harder and harder to consider telling the truth?” Jimin looked ashamed like it was difficult to admit to, but he was still answering all of Jungkook’s questions with complete honesty.

Jungkook blinks, “So you weren’t going to tell me? Ever?” He laughs incredulously, “Even after I unknowingly confessed my feelings?”

Jimin snaps his head towards him, “What–?”

“Remember that night? Under the stars? I told you.”

“You–you said you were falling for Taehyung,” Jimin defends weakly.

“You knew I was in love with the person who wrote to me. I may not have known at the time, but you knew–“

“But Tae–“

“You knew I was talking about you, Jimin. I’ve always been in love with the one who wrote to me.”

“You fell for Taehyung,” Jimin persists softly.

Jungkook steps closer, grabbing Jimin’s arms delicately.

“I fell for you, Jimin.” Jungkook bends slightly so he can peer into Jimin’s eyes directly.

Several emotions flicker through Jimin’s expression, before he’s left with just sadness. Jimin breaks away from the hold, turning around and hiding his face in his hands.

“Not–not–not in person,” Jimin blubbers, “You fell for Taehyung. It’s–it’s okay. I understand–you should be with him–Taehyung always said you should be with the one that makes you happy.”

Jimin’s shoulders are shaking. Jungkook can’t bear to see the sight of the man crying. Why does it hurt so much to see the other sad?

Jungkook turns Jimin around, prying his hands away from his face. Jimin ducks his head, and Jungkook let’s him be, but he continues with what he needs to say.

“I thought I was falling for Taehyung. I was trying to convince myself that I was because I thought he was–but he wasn’t–nothing made sense, and I was confused, but I’m not confused right now. I know the whole truth now. The truth is Taehyung has become a stranger. I don’t know anything about him, other than what he let me see during those two weeks, but you. Jimin you–how do I begin to describe how you make me feel? I think an unconscious part of me always knew, from how easy things were with you. How seamless. How right it all felt.”

Jimin has stopped crying, and is breathing heavily. Jungkook is still holding onto both of his wrists.

“Jimin, I think a big part of me is relieved to learn it was you that wrote to me...because there’s also a part of me that is overjoyed I have a justification for my feelings towards you. I think I was already falling in love with you and my brain shut it down because I was supposed to be in love with the one who wrote me those letters. Ugh,” Jungkook groans, “I don’t think I’m making any sense anymore.”

Jimin giggles wetly, head still tucked in his shoulder. Jungkook smiles. He tugs on the wrists, making Jimin stumble into his chest. Jimin finally looks at him, eyes filled with so much adoration, emotion, and reservation. Jungkook catches a glimpse of how hard it must’ve been for the elder as well. To know, but feeling like he couldn’t say. The guilt. Seeing Jungkook flirt with someone else. Jungkook groans internally at how difficult that must’ve been. He’s going to need to start making up for all that immediately...

Jungkook knocks his forehead gently against Jimin’s, before pulling back so he’s looking into the shorter man’s eyes, “I think I’m in love with you, Park Jimin.”

Jimin’s cheeks have dawned a rosy tint. He fiddles with a stray thread of Jungkook’s collar, worrying his bottom lip, “You promised Tae. You promised Tae’s grandma. Your family. It’s all such a mess–I’m so sorry.”

Jungkook nods, using his thumb to gently pry Jimin’s bottom lip away from the abuse, “I know, but they’ll have to understand.”

“I don’t know if I can hurt Taehyung like this,” Jimin’s face crumples again as he thinks of his best friend.

“Jimin, it would be hurting him more if we pretended any longer.”

Jimin flinches, but he nods. He searches Jungkook’s eyes, “Are you sure?”

Jungkook nods, brows furrowed and expression serious, trying to express how certain he was about this whole situation.

Jimin drops his head onto Jungkook’s collarbones, relishing in how Jungkook hold tightens around him.

“Okay.”

“Okay?” Jungkook asks hesitantly.

“Okay,” Jimin giggles.

“Okay,” Jungkook grins, suddenly overcome with how beautiful that winter day was. With the sun shining brightly, and the sky a clear blue. The trees a gorgeous canopy around them, and a serene silence settling over everything with only the sounds of birds chirping interrupting it. “....so what now?”

Jimin laughs. He pulls back, shrugging.

“Oh!” Jungkook suddenly is reminded of why they were there in the first place, “How was your interview?”

Jimin scratches his chest thinking back to his performance, “I honestly think it went well. Even if I don’t get in, I’m satisfied with my performance I think.”

“Oh thank goodness,” Jungkook sighs, “I was worried I might’ve ruined everything with my reaction earlier.”

Jimin shakes his head firmly, “No. You were absolutely justified in your reaction, even if  everything had gone horribly it would’ve been my own fault.”

Jungkook frowns, “That’s a little harsh. You have to be nicer to the man I love.”

Jimin flusters, pulling away, “You can’t just-“ He fans his face, making Jungkook laugh.

“But in all honesty,” Jimin slips his hand into Jungkook’s, pulling him towards the car, “I am surprised by how well you took everything. I was afraid you’d never want to see me again or maybe–I don’t even know–but you were so sweet about everything.”

Jimin gives Jungkook a smile so bright, it makes his heart melt. Hit with a sudden burst of confidence, he corners Jimin against the car. A hand on either side of the elder, he leans in, “I can be much sweeter.”

Jimin’s eyes go wide, and his neck and ears are flushing red. He lifts a hand between Jungkook’s rapidly advancing lips and his own.

Jungkook whines. Actually whines. He was so embarrassing.

Jimin smiles apologetically, “I’m sorry. I can’t. Not until we’ve talked to Taehyung about everything at least.”

His point was valid, and Jungkook nods pulling back. He reaches behind and opens the door for Jimin.

“Oh! My backpack!” Jimin runs to grab his forgotten backpack that was laying on the grass. He giggles slipping into the car, as Jungkook shakes his head and shuts the door.

“Clumsy, clumsy,” Jungkook comments getting into driver’s seat.

“Okay, maybe a little,” Jimin admits.

A thought occurs to Jimin. He glances at Jungkook before deciding to go for it.

“So...”

Jungkook hums, doing a shoulder check before pulling onto the road.

“Dinner with Min Yoongi tonight?”

Jimin feels really bad for how amusing he finds Jungkook’s fist tightening on the gear shift, and jaw clenching at the notion.

“No. Absolutely not.”

“Oh?” Jimin asks coyly, “But why not? My mom would be so disappointed.”

Jungkook rolls his eyes, “Until I can call you mine for good, you’re staying away from Yoongi hyung, and aunty Min too for that matter.”

Jimin laughs, but his chest feels warm. Mine. Being Jungkook’s. Being able to call Jungkook his. It almost sounded too good to be true.

“I’m serious,” Jungkook pouts, “He’s already got his eyes on you, and I need to be able to call you mine so he knows to stay in his lane.”

Jimin laughs harder, “Is it weird I want to meet him more now? To see the man that the Jeon Jungkook feels jealous of? I mean I imagine it’s not often you feel insecure being you.”

“Me being me?” Jungkook raises a brow.

“You know,” Jimin keeps his voice light, “Talented, gifted, hardworking, handsome, kind, the list is endless really.”

Jungkook laughs, shaking his head, “I don’t know about that, but...I’d fight him for you for sure. Now that I have you, I don’t think I’ll be able to let you go.”

Jimin squirms in his seat, not used to having Jungkook declare such sweet sentiments so easily. Although, now that he thought about it, Jungkook has always been the straightforward type. Still it felt weird to be on the receiving end of those fleeting, but loving glances.

He notices Jungkook’s right hand resting leisurely on his thigh. Feeling bold, Jimin reaches over and slips his hand underneath, intertwining their fingers.

Jungkook doesn’t look away from the road, but his smile brings out Jimin’s own shy one.

Jimin looks out the window, trying to not let the feelings of guilt and thoughts of a devastated Taehyung break his will.

Jungkook squeezes his hand, as he begins to hum the sweet melody that had brought them together.

Chapter Text

“Kookie? Have you seen my ring?” Jimin calls from the bathroom.

There’s a knock, and Jimin wraps a towel around his waist before opening the door distractedly, still searching the floor for the small silver thing.

Jungkook leans against the doorframe.

“The one I bought for you?”

Jimin gulps, not meeting Jungkook’s eyes. He mumbles a quiet yes.

“When did you have it last?” Jungkook asks. To Jimin’s relief he doesn’t sound angry or worse, disappointed.

“I thought I took it off and left it on the counter before I entered the shower,” Jimin explains looking behind the trash to see if it fell there, “Did you see it while you were brushing your teeth?”

“No.”

Jimin sighs, and sneaks a glance at the trash. He really doesn’t want to search through it, but... that ring was a gift from Jungkook.

“Hey wait don’t—“

But it was too late, Jimin had already begun rummaging through the bin. He hears Jungkook let out a disgruntled noise behind him.

Jimin searches through the discarded tissues and garbage, hoping to be catch sight of the small silver ring, yet his efforts are for nothing.

“Couldn’t find it?”

Jimin meets Jungkook eyes in the mirror as he turns on the tap to wash his hands. He shakes his head.

Jungkook runs a hand over his back, making Jimin keenly aware that he was still naked, “I’m sure it’ll turn up.”

Jimin nods, shoulders slumped.

“Hey, on the other hand, guess what we’re doing tomorrow?”

Jimin turns around to face Jungkook, leaning against the sink, “What?”

“Disneyland,” Jungkook grins, reaching over to grab one of Jimin’s hands in his own.

Jimin’s eyes widen, “Are you serious?”

“Yeah, as a way of celebrating you completing both of your interviews!” Jungkook laughs, squeezing his hand gently, “And it’s off season so it won’t be nearly as crowded. It’ll be amazing.”

Jimin is practically vibrating from excitement. He wraps his arms around Jungkook, before thinking twice (since he still hadn’t put on any clothes) and immediately stepping away.

Except, Jungkook grabs onto Jimin’s waist with both hands, keeping him from escaping.

They’re standing incredibly close, and Jimin’s heart is racing at the proximity. He can’t help but stare into Jungkook’s eyes and how they seem to sparkle. Beyond that, it was the way in which the younger was looking at him that made it impossible to look away.

Jimin’s cheeks burned. He didn’t want this moment to end. He had wanted this so bad. He had wanted it for so long, now that it was finally happening he didn’t know what to do. It was overwhelming in the most welcoming way.

He wanted to be able to lean forward and kiss Jungkook on the cheek...and then on each of his eyes, and his nose, maybe it’d scrunch in the way it does sometimes...he wanted to cup Jungkook’s cheek, and lean in to gently kiss him on the lips. He wanted so much, but he couldn’t.

Not yet.

Not until they figured out a way to clean up the mess he had created for himself.

Jimin clears his throat, pressing against Jungkook’s grip so he lets go, “I should get dressed.”

Jungkook takes the cue, leaving the bathroom, but he stops before shutting the door.

“We’ll figure it out.” His eyes shine with a fiery determination.

Jimin offers a small smile, nodding.

They would be okay.

“What do you want to do first?” Jungkook asks, holding a map of Disneyland in front of them.

There’s no response. Jimin is looking around with barely contained glee. His lips are parted slightly, and his eyes are sparkling taking in all the sights.

“Look!” Jimin grabs onto Jungkook’s arm shaking him slightly and pointing down Main Street, “It’s the Castle!”

Jimin’s squeal is drowned out by Jungkook’s laughter. “Do you want to buy some ears before we get going?” Jungkook points out the cart off to the side selling Mickey and Minnie ears as well as Goofy hats and a bunch of other headwear.

Jimin gasps, already dragging Jungkook towards it hand in hand.

Jungkook watches Jimin take in all the various headbands, but his eyes keep returning to a set of Minnie ears with a rainbow sequence bow.

“Do you want to get that one?” Jungkook nods to the rainbow one.

Jimin stammers, glancing at the families milling around them, “No–uh–I’ll get something else.”

“Are you sure?” Jungkook asks, resting a hand on Jimin’s lower back. “You seem to like it?”

“I can’t–I–people will...I’ll just get a goofy cap.”

Jungkook steps around so he’s facing the older. He cocks his head, “Hyung? You can’t live your life worrying about what others will think of your sexuality. It’s none of their business. Do what you want, and I’ll be here right beside you.”

Jimin gnaws on his bottom lip, contemplating the words.

Jungkook flicks Jimin’s nose. He gentles his voice, “One day I’ll ask you to be my boyfriend and then I’ll show you off to the rest of the world as my partner. Because I love you, and it’s just as valid as anything else. Yeah?”

Jimin rubs at his eyes with a fist. He lets out a laboured breath, but nods.

“So?” Jungkook asks, “Should I get one too? So we can match.”

Jimin snorts in amusement, “Yeah? You’d want to do that?”

“Of course.”

“You’d wear Minnie Mouse ears with a sparkly rainbow bow?” Jimin asks with a raised brow.

“If it would make you smile.”

He says the words so confidently it makes Jimin’s heart stutter. He couldn’t stop himself. Before he knew it he was smiling. “I’d like that.”

Jungkook grins fishing out his wallet and finding the merchant to purchase the two accessories.

Jungkook comes back with a headband on his head and another in his hand.

“Ta da,” he singsongs, handing over Jimin’s ears, “How do I look?”

Jimin surveys the younger.

“You look hot,” he says nonchalantly putting on his own ears.

Jungkook makes a choking sound, “I—“ he mumbles something that Jimin doesn’t catch. Jimin finds it funny how flustered he is by the truth. Because somehow he does make wearing a Minnie Mouse headband hot.

Jungkook puts an arm around Jimin’s waist, dragging him away, “Let’s go. What do you want to do first?”

They had taken pictures with both Cinderella and Belle in the castle. Belle had complimented their matching ears which had made Jimin’s ears and neck burn red but left him feeling beyond happy anyways. They had ridden the carousel on adjacent horses.

After a short churro break, they were in line for splash mountain. Right now there were a handful of people in front of them, but Jungkook had pointed out as they had walked through the queue that the line for the ride during the summers usually extended so far it could take up to an hour and sometimes even longer to get to where they were standing now.

Jimin couldn’t fathom waiting that long when they’ve barely had to wait for than ten minutes in any one line. Although, if it was with Jungkook, Jimin didn’t think he’d mind waiting even two hours. He’d enjoy it no matter what. Wow... he was so far gone....

A log arrived at the loading platform and Jungkook let Jimin sit down first. Jimin, being the shorter of the two, naturally sat in the front. Jungkook climbed in after him, and his legs fell on either side of Jimin effectively caging him in. There were no seatbelts, but Jimin couldn’t have felt safer.

As soon as everyone is settled, the log jolts forward and into the water.

It’s quite peaceful, floating through the water with the sun shining and clear blue skies above them. There’s also some real cheerful music playing, which Jimin finds a little hilarious paired with the distant screams that are just barely audible over the music.

An arm snakes it’s way around Jimin’s waist, and Jimin twists around to see Jungkook smiling at him. He giggles, letting go of the safety bar in front of him with one of his hands so he could place it on top of Jungkook’s where it rests on his stomach.

The log is going up again and Jimin has a feeling that this is going to be the big drop. His grip on Jungkook’s hand tightens reflexively, and Jungkook holds him tighter in return.

There’s a second where they reach the peak, and everything slows down.

Then they’re falling and Jimin’s screams blend in with the others.

As the drop comes to an end, water slams against them from all sides and Jimin being in the front gets the brunt of it. He feels his socks getting wet, but he doesn’t even mind. He’s too busy laughing.

“That wasn’t bad!” He twists to see Jungkook wearing his signature smirk.

Something settles in Jimin’s stomach, “That wasn’t it was it?”  

Jungkook laughs.

They end up in an underground cave, with animatronics singing around them.

There’s another fall, this time in complete darkness with cool air rushing past them.

“How long is this ride?” Jimin marvels.

Jungkook laughs louder.

Jimin zones out for the rest of the course, until they find themselves at the bottom of another incline. There are two vulture animatronics above them and Jimin just knows that this is going to be the final drop.

Jimin’s anticipation builds as their log climbs higher and higher. They reach the top where the cave ends, and Jimin is blinded by the brightness. Then the log tips forward and they’re falling.

Jimin’s heart leaps into his throat when he feels himself floating out of the seat as the log descents.

However, almost immediately a second arm is wrapping around him and Jungkook pulls him back down, holding him securely in the seat.

If he thought he got wet during that earlier drop, it was nowhere near how soaking wet he was now. His white shirt was practically translucent and stuck to him like a second skin. There was a nice big puddle at the bottom of the log and Jimin tried his best not to put down his feet.

Jimin steps carefully out of the log and onto the platform first. He holds out a hand for Jungkook, helping him onto the platform after him.

“How was it?” Jungkook asked, eyes briefly scanning down Jimin’s dripping form.

“I loved it!” Jimin grins, pushing his wet locks out of his face.

“Okay good because It’s one of my favourites,” Jungkook nods to the exit, “Come on, they have dryer rooms near by.”

Jimin follows Jungkook down the steps to the large yellow arches. He tackled Jungkook out of the way so he could insert the dollar bills to get the dryers started instead.

Jungkook shakes his head, but he’s smiling, amused at Jimin’s antics. They stand barefoot in front of the giant blow dryers, holding up their socks. After drying off the best they could, they put on their socks and shoes again.

Jungkook takes it upon himself to style Jimin’s blow dried hair.

Jimin giggles, fixing Jungkook’s black locks around the Minnie Mouse headband while the younger is doing his hair.

They walk around, riding whichever rides catch their eye. Eventually, taking a break for lunch. They end up at Cafe Orleans. They end up getting a Pommes Frites to share and two orders of the Steak and Potatoes as recommended by the nice waitress, who also complimented their matching ears.

Jimin didn’t ever want to leave this place. Disney really did feel magical with all the beautiful sets and the enchanting music.

After lunch they were back to work, going on as many rides as they possible could, stopping to replenish their energy with snacks and drinks along the way.

“Which rides were your favourite?” Jungkook asks before stuffing his face with pizza. They were seated at an outdoor table for dinner. The sky was a beautiful ombré of purples and blues and oranges. There was a refreshing breeze. Jimin felt so content.

Jimin hums as he thinks, “Jungle Cruise was nice. The lady was so funny.” Jimin giggles at the memory. They had just come from Jungle Cruise so it was fresh in his mind.

“And of course Splash Mountain! Oh! Indiana Jones was so much fun too!”

“Oh yeah?” Jungkook chuckles, “Even though you screamed at the bugs on your feet part?”

“That was terrifying! You can’t blame me! The water squirters felt so real!” Jimin huffs, angrily eating a fry.

“Oh! And Space Mountain! Can’t forget about that one!”

Jungkook grins, “I was about to bring it up, considering you made us go on it three times in a row.”

Jungkook is smiling and looking at him in a way that Jimin can’t put into words, and all of a sudden he feels overwhelmed.

Jungkook seems to notice the change instantly, because he leans forward taking one of Jimin’s hand into his own, “Hey, you okay?”

“Yeah,” Jimin nods, but he feels his eyes starting to sting, “I’m so happy.”

“I’m glad...” Jungkook’s thumb caresses Jimin’s cheek, “But why do you have that look in your eyes?”

Jimin places his free hand on top of the one Jungkook his holding his cheek with. He leans into the touch, closing his eyes and relishing in the warmth of Jungkook’s hand against his skin, “...I’m scared. I’m scared because I’m happy. I don’t want this to end. I’m scared I’ll wake up, and it’ll all be a dream.”

Jungkook’s brows are furrowed slightly when Jimin opens his eyes again.

Jimin clears his throat, moving away and letting Jungkook’s hand fall from his grip. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to bring the mood down.”

“No, no,” Jungkook rushes to interrupt, “I’m happy you’re sharing your feelings with me.”

Jungkook looks thoughtful, but he breaks out into a comforting smile before Jimin can question it. “Come on, let’s finish dinner quickly. I want to get on the Sun Wheel before the water show starts!”

Jimin’s a little confused about the abrupt change in topic, but he still finishes his meal in no time.

The Ferris wheel that Jungkook wanted to go on so bad was absolutely huge and lit up now that the sky was getting darker. It stood on the edge of the pier of a sort of artificial lake. According to Jungkook, there was going to be a show with the water fountains called World of Colours.

There were two lines for the Sun Wheel. One of them for the fixed gondalas, and another line for the sliding gondolas. Upon Jungkook’s request, they lined up for the latter.

They decided to sit next to each other instead of across from each other. It was a large, enclosed gondola that could probably seat five to six people, but with the park being not nearly as busy, they had it all to themselves.

Jimin was glad that he had Jungkook right beside him, because as their gondola started sliding, he felt his heart sink along with the movement.

Jungkook placed an arm around Jimin’s waist, and Jimin takes the chance to press close to the bigger man. Jungkook’s grip tightens ever so slightly where he’s holding Jimin’s hip.

Jimin let’s his head fall on Jungkook’s shoulder.

As their gondola was nearing the peak, Jungkook points to below them. The water show had started.

Jimin and Jungkook carefully slide to the edge, watching the spouts of water glow in all the colours of the rainbow. Jimin felt mesmerized by the movement of the streams and sprays of water to the music.

It felt like the show had just started, but before he knew it, the fountains were sinking back into the body of water and the lights dimmed out.

They had reached the apex by the time the show ended.

Jimin turns around to talk about how amazing it was with Jungkook, but the words get caught in his throat.

Jungkook is holding a small black velvet box in his hand.

“I’m sorry I scared you yesterday,” Jungkook begins softly.

Jimin’s eyes widen in realization and his suspicions are confirmed when Jungkook opens the box to reveal his ring. Well the ring Jungkook had given to him last year.

“What–why–huh?” Jimin sputters.

Jungkook pulls out the ring, taking one of Jimin’s hand in his own, he places the ring on the centre of his palm.

“Look closely,” Jungkook whispers, “I’m sorry I know it’s kind of dark.”

Jimin gingerly picks up the ring, bringing it closer to his eyes. He gasps when he sees the engraving on the inside of the band. It’s simple.

J ♡ J  on one end, and 사랑해 on the other end.

[사랑해 (saranghae) I love you, in informal Korean]

“It might be too dark to see, but there’s an engraving on the outside black band as well.”

Jimin shifts the ring, trying to catch it in the light and he sees it.

You are my love.

“Do you like it?” Jungkook asks gently.

Jimin drops his head, trying to control the tears wanting to spill.

“Jimin.” Jungkook places a hand on his cheek, bringing his face up so they’re looking at each other, “My love–“

Jimin gasps at term of endearment. His heart beating out of his chest.

“I don’t want this to end either. I’ll go back with you to Korea. We’ll explain everything to everyone. It’ll be hard, but hopefully they’ll all understand.”

Jimin nods, slipping the familiar ring back onto his finger.

He pulls Jungkook into his arms in a tight embrace. Jungkook’s arms come around him, holding him just as tightly.

Jimin is overcome with a need to kiss Jungkook, but he barely restrains himself. He knows he’s emotional right now, and the moment feels so perfect to have a first kiss, but this is his punishment. He’ll have to wait until he fixes his mistake.

So instead, Jimin settles for a hug, being held tightly against the love of his life so there’s not an inch of room between them. He buries his face in the crook of the younger’s neck, relishing the moment. For now, this is enough. 

It’s nearing 2 am by the time they stumble back into Jungkook’s apartment. They had stayed at the park until closing time at midnight.

They were both drained, but neither could complain. It had been an amazing day.

Jimin takes off his headband, tossing it onto the coffee table and massaging his temples.

The phone rings, a shrill sound in the quiet night. Jimin jumps, exchanging a look with Jungkook. Who could be calling at such a time?

“Hello?” Jungkook greets after answering the call.

There’s silence as Jungkook listens to someone speak on the other end. Jimin watches as the colour drains from Jungkook’s face.

He grunts in response to something the person says.

More silence then Jungkook shakes his head, “No, I’ll tell him....okay....bye.”

Jimin knows something’s not right.

Jungkook hangs up, turning to face Jimin. There is anguish in his eyes.

“J-Jungkook? What...?”

The younger gulps. “That was my mom,” he starts hesitantly.

“Is everything alright?” Jimin asks, despite knowing full well that chances of that were slim with how the other was reacting. He moves closer to the other.

“They’re at the airport catching a flight to Korea.”

“Jungkook, please,” Jimin whispers with a trembling voice, “Tell me what happened.”

Jungkook looks pained having to say the next words.

“It’s Taehyung’s grandmother. She passed away.”

Chapter Text

Jimin feels his world crumble. Pain erupts in his chest. His legs give way, but Jungkook is able to catch him before he crumples to the floor.

Jungkook holds Jimin’s shaking form as he sobs against him. The cries sound so pained that it makes Jungkook want to break something. He wants to ease the elder’s suffering, but he doesn’t know how. He feels so helpless, so he lets Jimin cry. All he can do is hold him, as if somehow physically holding him would keep him from breaking apart on the inside.

Jungkook shuffles to the couch, bringing Jimin along with him. He eases them both down, and  Jimin curls up into him.

Minutes pass but they feel like hours. Eventually, Jimin’s tears dry up. He sits up, eyes looking lost, “I need to go.”

“Now?” Jungkook questions, bewildered.

Jimin gets off the couch as if in a trance, heading to the bedroom, Jungkook follows closely behind.

“Jimin? You’re leaving now? You haven’t booked a ticket or anything?”

“I’ll do it at the airport,” Jimin stuffs the clothes he has scattered around the room into his suitcase.

“Oh okay–I–give me a few minutes to pack a suitcase,” Jungkook mumbles getting his carry on off of the top shelf of his closet.

“You don’t have to come with me,” Jimin’s voice sounds so monotonous and distant that it makes Jungkook pause.

“I–no I’ll come with you?” He searches Jimin’s face for a reaction but gets nothing. Jimin simply nods, wheeling his suitcase out of the bedroom.

Jungkook blazes through his packing. He’s not even sure of what he’s packed, but for some reason he’s scared if he takes too long, Jimin will leave without him.

He stuffs his wallet, cellphone, and keys into a backpack before rushing out into the living room.

Jimin is sitting on the couch, hunched over, head in his hands.

“I’m ready,” Jungkook ventures hesitantly. He feels like he’s standing on thin ice, and he’s afraid to move for fear of the floor shattering away. 

Jimin nods, getting up and grabbing his suitcase without looking at Jungkook.

The taxi ride to the airport is tense. Not knowing what to say to provide comfort, Jungkook doesn’t say anything. Jimin hasn’t looked away from the window, and Jungkook suspects it’s because the elder is trying not to cry again.

They hadn’t been able to find a flight until 11 am. After a 14-hour flight, they landed in Seoul around 1 am.

Jungkook had attempted to persuade Jimin to rest in a hotel overnight, but Jimin had been adamant about getting home as soon as possible. So, Jungkook had rented a car, and they were doing the 3-hour drive.

Jimin had tried to let Jungkook let him drive, but Jungkook wouldn’t budge. The elder had slept fitfully during the flight, and he was looking worse for wear. He didn’t know how lucid the other man was, so Jungkook had stuck to driving himself. At least he was a little more coherent.

Jimin had drifted off to sleep in the car to Jungkook’s relief.

With the help of a GPS, they managed to get to the Park residence in just under three hours. He powered off the car, and turned to wake Jimin up, but Jimin was already awake, unbuckling his seatbelt.

Jungkook lets Jimin rush inside, while he grabs the suitcases from the trunk. By the time he’s inside, he sees Jimin and Taehyung in a tight embrace in the living room. A lamp is on, the only source of dim illumination, while the rest of the house is dark and silent. Everyone else must be sleeping.

Taehyung has his face buried in the crook of Jimin’s neck, and from the way his form is shaking silently, Jungkook can only assume he’s crying.

They’re just friends.

It’s silly he feels the need to remind himself, especially during the circumstances, but he hasn’t had a friendship like what Jimin and Taehyung have, with anyone. Yoongi and he were perfectly fine with keeping the skinship for rare occasions.

Taehyung finally pulls away, and his eyes meet Jungkook’s over Jimin’s shoulder. Taehyung’s face breaks, and he’s rushing past Jimin and throwing himself into Jungkook’s arms who drops the suitcases just in time to catch the other man. Instinctively, Jungkook wraps his arms around Taehyung, rubbing his back soothingly.

“Jungkook,” Taehyung sobs, clutching onto his jacket. Normally, Jungkook wouldn’t think twice about providing comfort to a friend who needs it, but right now there are things left unsaid between them and he doesn’t know if what he’s doing is overstepping his place.

Jungkook looks up to see Jimin with his back still to them, his head bowed. Something twists in Jungkook’s stomach. He can’t help but feel like he’s doing something wrong.

But Taehyung is hurting too, so Jungkook stays in the embrace, squeezing Taehyung occasionally when the other lets out a truly pitiful sob.

“Oh? You’re back?” It’s Jimin’s mom descending the staircase, looking exhausted, but she manages a warm smile nonetheless seeing Jungkook comforting Taehyung.

“You must be tired,” she says, giving a half hug to Jungkook from the side, and placing a hand on Taehyung’s head. “Taehyung has been sleeping in Jimin’s room, so why don’t you and he go rest in there? I’m sure you can use some sleep as well, Taehyungie. You haven’t slept properly in two days. Jiminie can go share with his father.”

Taehyung nods against Jungkook’s shoulder before pulling back and wiping his eyes. He slips his hand into Jungkook’s pulling him upstairs. Jungkook can’t find the right words to protest, so he lets himself get pulled away.

Jimin’s mom walks over to her son, noticing his slumped shoulders and bowed head with a slight frown. “Jimin-ah?” She starts softly, “Did your interviews go okay?”

He nods. She’s most likely attributing his distraught state to having botched his interviews, which saved him from having to talk about what was really bothering him at least.

“It’s okay if you don’t get in, it won’t be the end of the world, my son,” she squeezes his arm, “You could try again next year. And there will always be other schools. You don’t have to leave the country for a good education. I’m always telling you; you should put your efforts to getting into SNU instead. That’s a good university, and you wouldn’t be as far away from us.”

Jimin simply nods. He has no energy left to talk about that right now. Plus, he’s not sure if he wants to study in California anymore...

“How’s Taehyung been?”  He asks instead, as his mother leads him to the kitchen.

She sighs, “That poor child. He hasn’t eaten a proper meal since before the hospital. I tried to make him his favourite, but he refuses to eat. I’ll see if I can get Jungkook to feed him when they wake up. I’m sure he’ll be able to. Taehyung talks about that boy like he hung the stars for him.”

Jimin nods along mutely. He felt trapped. Like there were walls growing taller all around him, leaving him at the bottom of a well with no way out, but to accept his demise.

“Did you see the way they were hugging?” His mom asks, handing him a glass of water. He accepts it with a quiet thank you, drinking the contents. “That’s what I want for you, son. I want you to have a person who will be there for you. If god forbid something were to happen to your father and me, I don’t want you to be alone in your pain without anyone there to hold you and help you get through it.”

Jimin squeezes his eyes shut, hiding his face in his hands.

“Did you get a chance to meet Yoongi when you were over there?”

Jimin shakes his head. His mother sighs. “I know you’ve never been into the whole marriage thing or serious about finding a partner, but son I hope this shows you how short life is. I hope you can think about it a bit more seriously now.”

Jimin nods because that’s what his mother expects.

“Good, good. Now why don’t you go get some sleep. You look so tired. Your father snores quite loudly though, just a bit of a warning,” his mother winks at him, and he tries his best to smile feeling his lips twitch, but alas his face didn’t have the strength to do it.

When he wakes up, he’s alone in bed. It’s brighter outside, but not by much with dark grey storm clouds filling the sky.

He brushes his teeth and splashes his face with cold water to get rid of all the puffiness from all the crying.

He exits the room to head downstairs, glancing down the hall to his room. The door is closed, and there’s no sound coming from it. They were probably asleep. Taehyung and Jungkook were both quite difficult to wake up in the morning, and most likely wouldn’t wake up by themselves.

Jimin has no desire to go into the room, so he leaves them alone.

As he nears the top of the staircase, he hears the conversation taking place downstairs. He steps closer, sitting down on the top step. Jimin and Jungkook’s parents are sitting around the dining table, nursing cups of tea.

“The school is asking for their house back for the new principal,” his dad informs the group.

Mr. Jeon grimaces. Mrs. Jeon looks just as sad.

“I don’t know what he’ll do,” his dad says.

“Don’t be silly,” Jimin’s mom chastises him, “Of course, he’ll stay here with us. He’s practically our son. Plus, you know Jimin tressures him.”

Mrs. Jeon puts her cup down, “He’ll only stay with you, until he and Jungkook are married that is.”

Jimin’s mom and dad look stunned. Jimin’s mom gasps, hopping up in excitement walking over to grab onto Jungkook’s mom, “Marriage? You’re serious?”

Mr. Jeon puts a hand on his wife’s shoulder, smiling, “Of course. They are both adults and obviously crazy about each other, Jungkook already promised he would take care of Taehyung, and plus, I don’t think we’d find a better match for our son.”

Mrs. Jeon turns to her husband, smiling brightly. Her eyes are shinning with unshed tears of joy, “Our son is getting married.”

Mr. Jeon kisses her forehead, “Yes, he’s all grown up.”

Everyone gets lost in conversation of marriage and logistics, and general excitement, while Jimin sits at the top step, letting his heart break.

I don’t think we’d find a better match for our son.  

Just like always, when Jimin’s hurting too much to function, he runs away to Namjoon and Jin’s place.

A surprised Namjoon opens the door, “Jiminie? You’re back? I thought you weren’t coming back until the day after tomorrow?”

Jimin smiles tiredly, and Namjoon shakes his head, opening the door wider and stepping aside to let him in.

“What’s wrong?” Namjoon asks ushering Jimin into his office. Since it’s the middle of the day, Jin is at the restaurant, but Namjoon works from home the majority of the time so Jimin has always found refuge here.

“I just needed to get away for a while so I could compose myself,” Jimin mumbles, taking monopoly of the sofa Namjoon has in his work room. He grabs one of the cushions, and lays down sideways, hugging the cushion.

Namjoon takes a seat on his chair, swiveling around to face Jimin, “Care to explain what happened? Last thing I know is you’re heading to America for your interviews. How’d those go by the way?”

“They went fine, it’s hard to tell. So, we’ll have to wait for their final decision, I guess,” Jimin answers the easier question first.

Namjoon nods, gesturing Jimin to continue.

Jimin closes his eyes, because he can’t look at Namjoon as he explains everything that has happened.

There’s silence after he finishes. Jimin opens his eyes to see Namjoon processing all of that information.

“Oh—wow—okay… I think this calls for a talk on the balcony.”

Jimin snorts, pushing himself up. He lets himself onto the balcony, while Namjoon leaves for the kitchen with a promise of being back with hot chocolate.

The storm clouds are mulling, but it hasn’t started to rain yet. The wind is howling, blowing Jimin’s hair out of his face. He breathes in, and then breathes out deeply. He’s always been a fan of this kind of weather. When the skies are grey, the wind is strong, but the rain hasn’t made everything wet and slippery.   

Jimin finds himself relaxing for the first time in days amongst Namjoon’s plants.

The door slides open, and Namjoon steps out, slipping his feet into the outdoor slippers. He closes the door, with a nudge from his elbow, and walks over handing Jimin a cup of steaming hot chocolate. There were even tiny marshmallows piled on top that made Jimin smile.

“Thank you,” Jimin whispers, taking a tentative sip and immediately burning his tongue.

Namjoon laughs, “You never wait to let things cool down. You’d think you’d learn by now. How old are you again?”  

Jimin rolls his eyes. Namjoon wasn’t wrong.

They stand side by side, letting the cold wind tussle against them, while the hot chocolate warm their insides.

“So,” Namjoon begins, “What are you going to do?”

Jimin thinks it over. The more he contemplates, the surer he becomes there is only one thing he can do.

“What I think is right.”  

Namjoon studies his friend, getting a bad feeling in his gut. He knows Jimin, and frankly it doesn’t take much to know where he’s going with this.

“I should get going.”

Namjoon blinks, his brain panicking. He knows he shouldn’t let Jimin leave right now, or god forbid he does something stupid. “Uh—wait, wait, I think maybe you should wait until Jin gets back. Talk to him before you go.”

Jimin shakes his head, “No, no. I’ll talk to him on his day off.”

Namjoon watches sadly, as Jimin takes both of their cups and washes them before leaving.

It turns out Jimin knew just as well as Namjoon did that if he had waited and talked to Jin, Jin would’ve talked some sense into Jimin’s head.  

Jungkook finds Jimin as soon as he walks into his house.

“Where were you?” His voice holds barely controlled panic, “I need to talk to you.”

Jimin nods, toeing off his shoes.

Jungkook grabs onto both of his arms, “Jimin, they’re talking about our marriage—mine and Taehyung’s.”

Jimin nods, but before he has a chance to say anything, Jimin’s mom is walking up to them. “Jimin-ah, Taehyung is crying.”

Jimin’s eyes widen, he shoots Jungkook an apologetic look, before following his mom to his room where Taehyung must be.

Jimin knocks softly before letting himself in. He closes the door behind him.

Taehyung is sitting on the bed, staring out the window with tears streaming down his face mirroring the rain that had begun to fall.

Jimin climbs in beside him, pulling the younger into a back hug. He may be the shorter and smaller of the two, but that doesn’t stop him from being the big spoon. “My baby,” he whispers into Taehyung’s hair.

It takes a while for Taehyung to stop crying again.

They lay down beside each other, under the covers, listening to the rain’s pitter patter on the roof.

“Thank you for coming back early,” Taehyung whispers hoarsely.

“Of course,” Jimin wraps his pinky around Taehyung’s whose hand is resting right beside his.

“When you called earlier this week, you said you wanted to talk about something?”

Jimin blinks. “It—it doesn’t matter, it wasn’t anything important.” Jimin already regrets not having an excuse ready. He knows Taehyung wouldn’t drop it. He was always too curious for his own good.

“Oh...what was it?” Taehyung urges predictably.

“Nothing nothing, don’t worry about it. I promise it wasn’t a big deal.”

“So, then tell me?” Taehyung turns to face him.

Usually, by this point Jimin was already giving in, and telling his friend what was on his mind, but he couldn’t this time. No matter what it took, this time he had to hold his ground. Telling him wasn’t an option. “Tae, with everything that’s going on, I can promise you it wasn’t anything worth talking about now.”

Jimin turns to face the other as well. Taehyung’s face is impassive, which is scarier than if he was frowning. If he was frowning that actually meant he wasn’t upset as deeply as when he retreats like this and you have no idea what was going on behind that mask of his.

Taehyung sighs, “You know I love you, right?”

Jimin blinks, “Of course. And I love you, too.”

“I know,” Taehyung whispers, “Which is why I’m worried you’re considering something stupid and not telling me because you want to protect me or something.”

Jimin gulps. His heart is thudding so loudly in his chest. His brain is in a panic induced haze. Taehyung couldn’t know. He couldn’t possibly know.

“Wh–what?” Jimin clears his throat. “What are you talking about?”

Taehyung’s mask breaks and he lets out a frustrated growl, “I don’t know, Jiminie. Maybe you wanted to tell me you got into one of those American universities, but you won’t accept the offer now because you don’t want to leave my pathetic ass. I don’t want to burden you like that, Jiminie.” Taehyung is crying again. Jimin pulls him into his arms, resting his chin over Taehyung’s head, and squeezing him tight.

“I don’t want you to leave, but I know how much you’ve wanted it, and I’ll be okay. I’m not scared of being–of being–being alone.” Taehyung hiccups through his sobs.

“Hey!” Jimin protests angrily, “You’re not alone. I’m here. And I haven’t heard anything back from either of the universities so don’t go all crazy on me with your hypothetical scenarios.”

Jimin forces himself to say the next words, “Plus you have, Jungkook. You’re not alone, Tae.”

Taehyung doesn’t say anything, and soon falls asleep in Jimin’s arms. Jimin stays there, letting his friend rest. His brain is so full of chaos, of dark and depressing thoughts, that he too succumbs to sleep to escape them all.

Jungkook doesn’t see Jimin until way past midnight, when he catches him in the kitchen getting a glass of water.

“Oh, thank god,” he whispers, hugging Jimin, but Jimin stays motionless in his arms, making no moves to hug him back. He pulls back, confused. “Uh…we need to talk.”

Jimin nods, heading out from the back door.

It was raining harder now, but Jimin didn’t want to have this conversation within hearing distance of the house so he steps out into the rain.

“Jimin!” Jungkook exclaims, but when Jimin makes no show of slowing down, he follows the older into the rain.

Jimin walks down the street towards a little playground. It was the place where he had first met Taehyung and Jungkook all those years ago.

They were both drenched by the time they reached it.

Jimin takes a deep breath and turns to face Jungkook. His hair is matted to his face, and his black long sleeves shirt is sticking to his skin.

“We need to tell them,” Jungkook states, arms crossed.

“I can’t,” Jimin admits.

Jungkook blinks, looking lost, “What? Jimin? We need to tell them? There’s no other choice? If we don’t, then they’re really going to make me marry Taehyung.”

When Jimin stays silent, Jungkook continues, “I’ll explain it to my parents, you explain it to Taehyung, and then we can both tell you parents–”

“No, Jungkook. I can’t–I can’t tell Taehyung.”

Jungkook frowns in confusion.

“What kind of person does that make me? How can I ask my best friend to–how can I tell him that I love the man he loves too? How can I ask him to give me his happiness? I don’t know what I was thinking before, but I can’t do that–not now. I can’t take it away from him,” Jimin tries to explain.

“So, you–what are you saying, Jimin?” Jungkook growls. His usually bright eyes are glassy and fragile. “What are you asking?”

Jimin opens his mouth, but the words get stuck in his throat.

“You can’t even say it?” Jungkook scoffs, “You’re asking me to marry, Taehyung.”

Jimin’s bottom lip is wobbling from how hard he’s trying not to cry right now.

“How does that solve anything, Jimin?” Jungkook’s voice booms, but beneath it all, there is a scratchiness betraying how frustrated he is, “How does marrying someone who doesn’t love him make anything better for Taehyung?”

“You–”

“And please, don’t say marriage is a compromise–this isn’t our parents’ generation. Marriage is–it’s supposed to be a promise– a sacred ritual–a demonstration of love.” Jungkook had always been a romantic, so the fact that Jimin is asking him to do this was weighing on him heavily.

“You can fall in love, Jungkook-ah,” Jimin persists, “Forget the emails. Forget who wrote them. When you first came back, you were already falling for Taehyung. He was the one your eyes locked on the moment you saw us. I ruined everything. If not for what happened in California, you would’ve fallen in love anyways. You two looked so happy together.”

Jungkook opens his mouth to protest, expression pained, but Jimin steps forward, clutching one of his hands in both his own and cuts him off, “You can move on, Jungkook. You can forget about me. You can fall for Taehyung again.”

“Don’t. Don’t belittle our connection like that,” Jungkook pleads, his face a mask of pitiful desperation. “I love you. I can’t just get over that.”

“You can, Jungkookie. Taehyung can make you happy, you can make him happy. You two can have a happy marriage. Please,” Jimin begs, “For my sake?”

Jungkook rips his hand away, breathing heavy. His head falls, but Jimin sees the tears fall to the ground. He could see them despite the sky trying to hide them within it’s own rainfall. “You’re hurting me, Jimin.”

Jimin had been strong for so long, but he couldn’t any longer. That was the last blow. This was one of the most important people in his life, but...so was Taehyung. He felt so trapped.

He turns around, letting the tears burn down his face. What was he doing? How had things gotten so bad? Why was everything such a mess?

“Fine,” Jungkook’s tone is hard, and Jimin flinches at the sudden exclamation, “It’s easy to make requests for the sake of love, but it’s so much harder to follow through. If it’s what you want, for your sake, I’ll marry Taehyung—” Jimin berates himself for the way his chest wrenched in pain at the words. This was what he wanted so he had no right to feel pain. “—I’ll get married to him...but only the day you marry someone else.”

His head was spinning.

“I won’t make this sacrifice alone.” Jungkook spits, walking away.

Jimin could no longer balance himself, his legs give way and he slumps to the ground in tears, only this time there was no one there to catch him.

Chapter Text

[7 Months Later]

The Parks, Taehyung, Namjoon, and Jin land at LAX two and a half weeks before Taehyung and Jungkook’s wedding.

It’s a hot August afternoon, as they step outside.

A shout garners all their attention.

It’s the Jeons.

Taehyung squeals, running to wrap his arms around Jungkook who moves the bouquet of flowers he’s holding in front of him, out of the way just in time to avoid them getting crushed in the embrace. Mr. and Mrs. Jeon watch the two with endeared smiles.

“I missed you so much,” Taehyung whines into Jungkook’s neck. Jungkook chuckles, lifting a hand to wrap it around Taehyung’s waist, “I missed you, too.”

Jungkook moves away from the hug, handing over the overflowing bouquet to Taehyung, “For you.”

Taehyung takes the flowers with a shy smile, “Thank you.”

The air fills with boisterous greetings and hugs as the rest of the parties meet.

Jimin is trying to avoid Jungkook to the best of his abilities without it being overtly obvious, but he can’t pretend when Jungkook lands his gaze on him. Jimin feels paralyzed.

“Hey, Jimin hyung. How’re you doing?” Jungkook asks with a good-natured smile, but to Jimin it feels wrong. Distant. Like meeting a friend, you hadn’t been in touch with for years. It was awkward.

“I’m good–“

“Oh hey Jin hyung, Namjoon hyung, so glad you could make it!” Jungkook continues seamlessly.

Namjoon and Jin greet the youngest with genuine smiles. Jimin is glad they’re there and better at acting like everything was normal. He wasn’t so sure any more about his abilities to appear indifferent when being brushed off by Jungkook alone made him feel so small inside.

“Oh, Jimin–ah,” Mrs. Jeon grabs Jimin’s cheeks in her hands, “Congratulations on getting into UCSF! It’ll be so good to have you so close!”

Jimin bows his head, getting shy of the sudden praise.

“You better come visit us often okay? Jungkook so rarely does,” she pats his cheek gently. Jimin nods with a smile.

Conversation continues for a while before Mr. Jeon ushers everyone into the two cars. The conversations continue as they make the hour drive to the Jeon mansion.

And it really is a mansion. The enormous residence is located in an equally upscale neighborhood with each house as glamorous and grand as the next.

Jungkook acts as the tour guide showing everyone to their rooms since everyone was beyond jet lagged and wanted to rest a little.

“And finally, that’s your room,” Jungkook points out the door on the other side of the hall to Jimin and Taehyung.

“Thanks,” Jimin replies politely, wheeling his and Taehyung’s suitcases to the room.

“And where’s our room, Mr. America?” Taehyung asks with a teasing tone, leaning against the banister.

Jungkook laughs awkwardly, he gestures to the same door, “I told you, it’s that one.”

Taehyung pouts, stepping closer and placing a hand on Jungkook’s chest as he leans in to whisper, “I mean, where’s our room? Yours and mine?”

Jungkook’s eyes widen as he steps back, “What’s that dad? Coming!” He shouts to no one in particular, “I think dad’s calling me, I should go see what he wants.”

Taehyung laughs as Jungkook beelines out of there like a scared bunny, “Cute.” Although it was cute, he had hoped Jungkook would rise to the challenge and flirt back... Taehyung sighs, “Oh well... I’m hungry.” His state of hunger now occupying his mind, Taehyung leaves to find someone to make him some food.

The door of the guest room closes shut, and Jimin whirls around to see Jungkook latching the lock.

Jungkook turns around, and Jimin gulps stepping back.

“What are you–”

“Why haven’t you gotten married, Jimin?” Jungkook asks monotonously.

Jimin’s mind goes blank. It’s been 7 months since that night.

“Jungkook...” Jimin tries to gather his thoughts. Wasn’t it already punishment enough to watch the man he loves get married to his best friend? To have to participate in all the planning and preparation, to know that the person that still held his heart was going to promise himself away to someone else. To have to smile through it all. Wasn’t that enough?

“When are you getting married, Jimin?” Jungkook asks obstinately, stepping forward.

“Please,” Jimin whimpers, taking another step back until the back of his legs hit the edge of the bed.

“Hey,” Jungkook growls approaching Jimin so he’s in his space. He tilts his head forward, peering into Jimin’s eyes, “Don’t be fooled by this happy facade. The smile is fake, and the laughter is too.”

Jimin grimaces.

“I’m doing this, for your sake, but I promised you that I would only get married if you got married too.”

Jimin looks down. He can’t face Jungkook. He can’t watch the pain in his eyes any longer or he’d break. And he couldn’t break.

“Jimin,” Jungkook says in a pained whisper, “Please stop this...”

A tear slips past Jimin’s defenses and falls to the floor.

Jungkook steps back. He turns away. “Tomorrow’s just my engagement, Jimin. A ring’s not going to keep me bound. If you don’t get married by our wedding day, I will leave Taehyung at the altar.”

Jimin gasps, reaching forward the grab onto Jungkook’s jacket sleeve, but he rips his hand away.

The doorknob jostles as someone tries and fails to get in, followed by loud knocking. Taehyung’s muffled yell can be heard, “Jimin? Why’s the door locked?”

Jimin moves past Jungkook to unlock the door.

“Oh hey why’d you–” Taehyung pauses, seeing Jungkook, “What...?”

Jungkook smirks sardonically, “Should we tell him, Jimin?”

Taehyung glances behind him to look at Jimin who wipes the horror from his face just in time.

Jungkook sighs dramatically, “I guess we’ll have to tell him.”

Jungkook reaches into his jacket pocket and pulls out a box. It holds a beautiful brown wristwatch. Jungkook smiles holding it out, “This is for you. I just had to show it to Jimin first. He said you’d love it.”

Taehyung laughs, taking the box to admire the present, “Jimin was right, I do love it!”

Jungkook is all bright smiles and light laughter.

Taehyung wraps his arms around Jungkook’s neck, “I love you!”

“I love you, too,” Jungkook whispers, eyes locked on Jimin, watching him turn around and leave, “I love you, too.”

“I’M GETTING ENGAGED TODAY!” Taehyung’s screaming and jumping on the bed startles Jimin awake.

“Congratulations,” Jimin murmurs, bringing up a pillow over his head to try and block out the light streaming into their shared bedroom and the loud cheering from his best friend, but quickly realizes it’s a lost cause with how much the mattress jostles as Taehyung continues to jump. He groans at the idea of getting up. Why couldn’t he sleep longer?

The pillow and duvet are ripped away from him making Jimin yell in indignation.

“COME ON JIMIN WAKE UP WAKE UP WAKE UP! WE HAVE TO GET READY!”

Jimin makes a face, “The party isn’t until 6 pm?” He glanced at the clock on the wall, “It’s 9 am, Tae.”

Taehyung giggles dropping to sit beside Jimin, “Yeah, but I’m so excited!”

Jimin smiles, “Me too.”

“Hey Jiminie?” Taehyung asks, taking one of Jimin’s small hands into his large ones, “I wanted to thank you.” 

Jimin blinks, “What?”

Taehyung smiles shyly, “I feel like you brought Jungkook to me, and I don’t know... I’m just so grateful. I didn’t know how to really go about saying it because it feels so awkward to say, but I really need you to know how grateful I am.”

Jimin feels too choked up to respond, so he hugs Taehyung instead.

Taehyung squeezes Jimin tight, “You’ve brought me my happiness, Jiminie. How will I ever repay you?”

Jimin slaps Taehyung’s back lightly, “Don’t say stupid things. Your happiness, is my happiness.”

Taehyung pulls back with his signature low chuckle. He wipes at his eyes, “Yeah, but I want you to find your happiness too. I know you’re happy with your career and the way things are, but I want you to meet your person. Someone who will love you so much–“ Jimin’s mind fills with images of Jungkook holding him close and whispering I think I’m in love with you, Park Jimin.

“–and support you–” Jungkook offering to help him with a mock interview, waking up early to make him breakfast, driving him to his interview, no matter what happens, it doesn’t change the fact that you’re amazing.

“–who’ll look out for you–” Strong arms wrapping around him and keeping him safe on splash mountain.

“–who will find ways to make you smile–” Disneyland, stealing the ring to get it engraved, silly jokes and impersonations, when did Jungkook not make him smile. Jimin had smiled simply watching Jungkook enjoy ice cream...

“–Who’ll be by your side.” I don’t want this to end either. I’ll go back with you to Korea. We’ll explain everything to everyone. It’ll be hard, but hopefully they’ll all understand.

Jimin shakes his head out of it, “So, you want me to find Prince Charming, huh? Who am I Cinderella?”

Taehyung snorts, “No, my Jimderella, but you deserve a happily ever after.”

Jimin smiles sadly, “I don’t think I’m capable of falling in love.” The word anymore is left unsaid on his tongue. “I can’t imagine there being a person out there who I could fall for.”

Taehyung frowns, “You never know, Jiminie. We just have to wait for the universe to bring you your Mr. Right.”

“But what if it doesn’t work out,” Jimin asks in a quiet whisper.

Taehyung thinks about it, “...then... then he’s not Mr. Right. And you’ll just have to wait a bit longer, for your Mr. Right.”

Jimin smiles at the notion, not believing the words for a second, “Okay.”

“Okay!” Taehyung agrees, “You’ll meet someone who makes you happy, Jiminie. I know it.”

The engagement party was going to be bigger than the wedding ceremony, which both Jungkook and Taehyung had wanted to keep small and intimate.

Jimin is decked out in an all black ensemble with a black suit jacket embroidered with dark grey designs. Jimin’s now blueish silver locks are styled out of his face, exposing his forehead. Taehyung and he had gone to the salon earlier, and on a whim both had decided to get their hair bleached and coloured with Taehyung going for blond, and Jimin getting drawn to the alluring silver hue from the binder of colours the stylist had shown them. It had been a risky move on Taehyung’s part considering he was one the star of the party tonight, but it had come out brilliant making Taehyung look even more ethereal than usual. Taehyung looked like an angel.

Jimin’s at the venue along with his and Jungkook’s parents to check on all the decorations and make sure everything is ready to go. 

The guests start arriving by 5:50pm. Jungkook and Taehyung were scheduled to arrive fashionably late by 6:15pm. Jimin and Jungkook’s parents stay upstairs near the entrance to greet everyone, while Jimin runs around doing the final touches.

The venue is a circular ballroom, with a large dome ceiling from which a crystal chandelier hung in the centre and tall round pillars around the room. The periphery lights were dimmed slightly, so the glow from the chandelier looked even more brilliant. The marble floors reflected the illumination.

The descending stairwell’s railing were covered in floral arrangements and twinkly string lights.

There’s a raised platform opposite the stairwell where the band is set up beside a single black Grand Piano that remains unoccupied.

Jimin turns around, surveying the entire room. The guests are mulling around, enjoying drinks and conversing. The band is playing loud enough to be heard, but not too loud for people to not be able to hear each other. The music adds a pleasant and upbeat ambiance. The servers are flitting around the room with trays of champagne and snack platters.

Jimin nods to himself, satisfied with the result. The decorations make the already beautiful ballroom look even more beautiful, everyone seems to be enjoying themselves, the snacks and drinks are out on scheduled. His work was done.

“Excuse me, sir?”

Jimin turns to find a server holding a silver platter with a single folded card.

“Is this... for me?”

The server nods, moving the platter closer.

Jimin takes the note with a small thanks. He opens it to find a handwritten message. 

You’re the one who brought the morning dawn to my eternal nights with no end to be seen. Will you let me hold your hand now?

Jimin blinks.

He looks up to ask the server if he’s sure the notes for him, but the man has disappeared.

Jimin turns over the note, but there’s no mention of who it’s from or who it’s meant for. Jimin cocks his head in confusion, ultimately not knowing what else to do, he pockets the card.

“What’s that?” Jin asks.

Jimin jumps, turning around to find Jin and Namjoon standing there.

“Scared me,” Jimin huffs, straightening out his jacket.

Jin grins, “What’s up with the note?”

Blood rushes to Jimin’s face, “Nothing.”

Jin raises a brow.

“Everything looks amazing, Jiminie. Well done,” Namjoon interrupts, handing Jimin a champagne flute. 

“Thank you,” Jimin smiles pleased, accepting the flute, “I’m happy with how it all turned out.”

“How’re you holding up?” Jin asks with a sigh.

“I’m fine. Everything is fine,” Jimin brushes the question off, taking a swig of the drink.

The lights dim down and a spotlight turns on pointing to the top of the stairs.

“Ladies and gentlemen,” the lead vocalist of the band announces, “Please put your hands together in welcoming the special guests of the evening, Jungkook and Taehyung.”

Jimin claps along with the rest of the guests as Jungkook and Taehyung appear, hand in hand. They descend together, the spotlight following them, welcomed by clapping and loud cheers from all over the room.

Jungkook and Taehyung come to stand under the chandelier.

Jimin sees a man in a black suit, approach the stage.

What was going on?

The man says some words to the vocalist, and hands him something. The vocalist steps back letting the mystery man take the mic.

When he turns around, Jimin raises a brow. He has black tousled hair, catlike eyes, soft pink lips, and skin as smooth and pale as marble. Despite the delicate features, there’s a distinct handsomeness to him.

“Hello everyone,” the man speaks in a low voice with a slight rasp that was intriguing to hear causing the people not paying attention to stop and listen, “By request of one of the grooms to be, I will be playing a song on the piano tonight called Make it Right.”

The man walks to the piano with purpose, taking a seat on the bench. The room falls silent with eager anticipation. Even Jimin, who normally wouldn’t enjoy watching a pianist, finds himself excited to hear the man play. 

The first few keys hold a haunting quality.

Jimin glances to the side of him, where Jungkook and Taehyung hold onto each other and begin to slow dance in the middle of the room. He looks back to watch the man as the tempo picks up and he plays faster.

It sounds beautiful. Jimin surprises himself at the realization that there are tears in his eyes. The man was clearly a gifted and talented pianist.

Jungkook and Taehyung continue swaying around in circles. Jimin assumes most of the audience are watching them, but Jimin is enraptured by the pianist, a fact for which he’s grateful. He’s glad his mind isn’t occupied currently by how beautiful Jungkook looks holding Taehyung, but by how beautiful the pianists hands are as they dance across the keys creating the most entrancing melody.

The band joins in at the second chorus and the vocalist begins singing the lyrics.

This eternal night with no end in sight

It's you who gifted me the morning

Now can I hold that hand?

Oh oh

I can make it right

Jimin gasps, hands twitching around his flute of champagne, wanting to reach into his suit to pull out the notecard. He doesn’t have to though, he knows those are the lyrics that were the card was referencing.

Now there were two possibilities, Jungkook requested this song and so the card was from him or...

The card was from the pianist.

The song comes to an end all too quickly, and Jimin belatedly joins everyone around the room in applauding.

The man gets up, bows ever so slightly, and disappears off stage. Jimin tries to track the man, but he’s quickly lost in the crowd.

He turns around to excuse himself and finds Jin smirking at him, “See something you like?”

Namjoon glances between the two and then at the stage and then back at Jimin. “Oh,” a smirk forms on his face as well, “Yeah, Jiminie. See something you like?”

Jimin rolls his eyes, “I’ll be back.”

Jimin’s on his way to the stairs, but his eyes are wandering around trying to see if he can spot the mystery pianist. He didn’t know why he was looking for the other; maybe to say thank you for the performance? That he enjoyed it? Compliment him?

He couldn’t necessarily ask him about the card  in case it wasn’t him. Jimin didn’t want to be presumptuous like that.

Jimin’s climbing the steps when someone catches up to him.

“I hope you didn’t mind my note.”

Jimin turns to find the person he had been looking for standing beside him on the same step. The pianist and Jimin were both the same height he notes absentmindedly, but wait– the note, it was from him.

“Oh no–I–” Jimin starts but is interrupted as another figure joins them.

“Oh good, you’ve met,” Jungkook says.

Jimin and Jungkook lock eyes, but Jimin is glancing away just as quickly.

“Jimin, this is Min Yoongi,” Jungkook gestures to the other man, and Jimin’s brows shoot up. Oh.

“And Yoongi, you know of Jimin already,” Jungkook nods towards Jimin. Darn their meddling parents, Jimin thinks embarrassed.

Yoongi smiles, “A pleasure to finally meet you, Jimin-ssi.”

“Likewise,” Jimin smiles politely.

“Careful, Jimin,” Jungkook says with a easy voice yet there is something else in the undertones, “Yoongi likes stealing hearts.”

Yoongi snorts.

“And careful, Yoongi, Jimin likes breaking them.” With that, Jungkook walks through them and up the rest of the stairs.

“Maybe I like getting my heart broken,” Yoongi replies playfully bringing Jimin’s attention back to him.

Jimin chuckles, “Don’t listen to him. I’ve never had a single boyfriend, so how can I be in the habit of breaking hearts?”

“Oh? Maybe the fact that no one can experience being your boyfriend is what breaks their hearts,” Yoongi says sagely, but his smile shows he’s joking around.

“Sure,” Jimin agrees sarcastically. Yoongi laughs, “Were you going somewhere? Would you like to grab a drink with me?”

“I was just going to check with the catering service about dinner, but I can do that later.”

“Great,” Yoongi lets Jimin go first. They grab some drinks from the open bar, and head towards a quieter corner to talk.

“Oh!” Jimin remembers, “I meant to say it earlier. You played so well. It was a beautiful performance.”

Yoongi’s eyes sparkle. He looks away shyly, mumbling a quiet thank you.

“You’re very talented,” Jimin insists. He seriously was blown away by the man’s skills. “Are you a musician?” He’s trying to remember if his mother or Jungkook had mentioned anything about Yoongi’s occupation.

“Er–no. I’m actually an architect,” Yoongi rubs his neck, “I don’t play often, but I’ve always been passionate about music.”

Jimin understands. It’s hard to take out time to do what makes you happy when life is so busy. He remembers being distraught when he had to first start sacrificing his practice time in the dance studio for studying and finishing assignments. It had only gotten harder to be able to dedicate the same degree of attention towards dance as his studies got more difficult and time consuming.

“I’m glad I got to here you play then,” Jimin replies softly.

Yoongi blinks, “I–”

“Jimin?” Taehyung finds them behind a pillar. His eyes go to Yoongi, and then to Jimin and then back to Yoongi. “Who’s this?” He asks lightly, eyes sparking conspiratorially.

“Oh, uh this is Jungkook’s best friend, Min Yoongi,” Jimin introduces.

“Nice to meet you,” Taehyung holds out a hand.

Yoongi shakes the outstretched hand, “Uh yes nice to finally meet you, too. Congratulations.”

“Thank you,” Taehyung smiles pleasantly, “So, what are you two doing? Sneaking around in the shadows? Something naughty?”

Yoongi chokes on his drink.

“What–Taehyung!” Jimin sputters, baffled, “Did you need something or are you just here to say weird things?”

Taehyung laughs, “Come on. Your mom is wanting to get the ring ceremony over with quickly.”

Taehyung leaves with another wink.

“Wow, he looks even more perfect in person. What the fuck?” Yoongi mutters.

“Yes, he does,” Jimin chuckles because he gets it, Taehyung is ridiculously attractive. “And he has an amazing personality to match.”

Yoongi smiles, “Shall we head up there? I have the ring, so I don’t think they can start until we do.”

“Bold of you to assume, Taehyung would start without me,” Jimin remarks jokingly, “I don’t need a ring, I’m just that special.”

Yoongi laughs, “Okay, sunshine.”

Jimin walks away, but Yoongi sees the smile the younger was trying to hide. 

The ceremony really is quick, with Jungkook placing the silver band around Taehyung’s ring finger and everyone exploding with cheers and applause.

Taehyung turns to hug Jimin as soon Jungkook let’s go of his hand.

“Congratulations, Taetae,” Jimin squeezes his best friend.

“I’m engaged!” Taehyung whispers in Jimin’s ears, “This is so exciting!”

“Yes!”

They pull back to admire the thick silver band on Taehyung’s hand. Taehyung has one of the most beautiful hands Jimin has ever seen, so it only makes sense that it looks just as good wearing the ring.

Yoongi side hugs Jungkook, patting him on the back.

Their parents, Namjoon, and Jin, take turns congratulating Jungkook and Taehyung as the rest of the guests go back to their conversations.

The party is at full swing as the band plays song after song, guests dance in the center of the room, and dinner is getting ready to be served.

Jungkook and Taehyung, Jimin and Yoongi, Jin and Namjoon start off dancing together, but as the song progresses, they switch partners.

Yoongi lets Taehyung take him, as he himself partners off with Namjoon, and Jungkook moves onto Jin. Jimin laughs as Taehyung whirls him around the dance floor, handing him off to Namjoon at some point. Namjoon is a little shy and conservative with his movements, letting Jimin sway and lead them. From Namjoon, Jimin is passed onto Jin and they end up doing every goofy dance move they can think of, before Jin pushes him into his next partner.

Strong arms steady Jimin as he falls against his partner’s chest. Jimin looks up to find that it’s Jungkook who’s holding onto him.

Jungkook starts moving, and Jimin follows in a trance, lost in his eyes. There was so much he felt that Jungkook was trying to say through his eyes, and despite his rationality, Jimin tries his best to understand every emotion.

Their turn is over in a heartbeat. With a nod, Jungkook turns Jimin around, placing his hand into Yoongi’s who pulls Jimin towards him so they can finish the dance with the original partners. 

The song comes to an end with loud cheers from the crowd. Yoongi bows his head slightly towards Jimin as Jimin does the same. He takes one of Jimin’s hands and gives it a soft kiss on the back of his hand making Jimin laugh at the cheesiness. Yoongi grins proudly.

Taehyung giggles, flinging himself into Jungkook’s arms. Their bodies sway as they hug.

Jimin smiles at Taehyung’s boxy smile, happiness radiating off of him. That’s why he was doing this.

He’d be lying if he said it made everything worth it, he wasn’t that selfless, but it did make it easier to keep his feelings in check when he saw his friend smile like that. Easier to appear as happy as he was supposed to be.

And that’s the best he could hope for, now.

Chapter Text

Everyone is having breakfast outside on the balcony.

Mr. Jeon, Jimin, Jin, and Jimin’s dad had gotten up earlier to make breakfast for the nine of them.

“I should get going,” Jungkook says getting up, and grabbing his briefcase, “I need to stop by the apartment before heading to work.”

“There’s only twelve days left to the wedding and you’re still going to work?” Mrs. Jeon chastises, grabbing the apple Jimin passes to her and handing it to Jungkook.

Jungkook takes it, throwing a fleeting look towards Jimin who busies himself with placing some scrambled eggs onto his mom’s plate.

“Yes, mom,” Jungkook defends exhaustedly. His gaze returns to Jimin who’s passing the plate of breakfast sandwiches to Namjoon, “There’s still a lot of things to resolve before the wedding.”

Jimin freezes in his ministrations. Namjoon is quick to take note, he pats the younger’s hands, muttering a thank you. Jimin nods, taking a sandwich for himself.

“Have a good day at work,” Taehyung wishes, getting up to give Jungkook a quick hug.

“Thanks,” Jungkook nods, “Bye everyone.” He leaves with a wave.

Jungkook is unlocking his car, when he sees a white BMW pull into his parents’ driveway.

Yoongi gets out, locking his car.

“Hey,” Jungkook greets confused, “What’re you doing here?”

“I thought I’d come say hi,” Yoongi answers nonchalantly.

Jungkook raises a brow. Yoongi shifts under the scrutiny.

“Is Jimin here?” He finally asks, revealing his true intentions.

Jungkook cocks his head, “Wow you really don’t waste time, huh?”

Yoongi grins, “I read somewhere that if you don’t go after what you want, you’ll never get it.”

There’s an uncomfortable pressure in Jungkook’s chest, but he does his best to ignore it, “Right... well Jimin’s out back, and so is everyone else.”

“Oh,” Yoongi laughs worriedly, “Well then, wish me luck. I think I’ll need it.”

Jungkook nods, unable to actually say the words. He opens the door to his car, “I’ll see you later.”

“Oh, Yoongi hyung!” Taehyung exclaims spotting the man approaching the large circular outdoor table.

“Yoongi dear, welcome welcome,” Jungkook’s mom waves him over, “Come, take a seat!” She gestures to Jungkook’s freshly vacated chair. Yoongi takes a seat greeting everyone good morning.

“Here,” Jimin’s mom hands him a plate, “What would you like to eat? Pancakes? Sandwiches? Eggs? Fruit salad? Jimin made the fruit salad. Would you like to try some?”

Jimin wants to roll his eyes. He wishes his mother didn’t make things so obvious. It made everything feel so...awkward.

“Oh well, if Jimin made it then I have to try it, don’t I?” Yoongi smirks at Jimin, scooping a generous serving onto his plate. Jimin really does roll his eyes now.

Yoongi chuckles taking a bite. Although Jimin pretends he doesn’t care, he still watches the elder through the corner of his eyes. Yoongi’s eyebrows shoot up, “Oh, this is actually really good.”

“It’s cut up fruit with some seasoning,” Jimin brushes it off, ears burning ever so slightly at the attention.

Taehyung laughs, leaning his head on one of his hands, “What are you doing here so early in the morning, Yoongi hyung?”

“Uh,” Yoongi takes another bite of the his food, “I was in the neighborhood and I thought I’d come and say hi–”

“Hi!” Taehyung cuts him off with a teasing grin, “There. Done. Now what?”

“Taehyung!” Jimin slaps his shoulder, “Don’t listen to him, would you like a breakfast sandwich, hyung?” Jimin offers him the plate, and Yoongi nods, taking one for himself.

“You know what? I think I want some tea,” Taehyung exclaims all of a sudden getting up.

“You don’t drink tea,” Jimin deadpans.

Taehyung glares at him, “Right, I meant... I think I’ll make Uncle Jeon some tea! Come on Uncle Jeon!” Taehyung goes around and all but picks Mr. Jeon out of his chair, pulling him towards the house.

“But–but I’m not done my pancake,” Mr. Jeon protests as he’s dragged away.

“I’ll make you some more,” Taehyung mutters.

“I thought you couldn’t cook?”

“Work with me, Uncle Jeon?” Taehyung whines taper off as he disappears inside.

Jimin’s mom and Mrs. Jeon look at each other before getting up too, “We should start getting ready to go shopping, Inhwa?” Jimin’s mom asks.

“Yes, yes, the earlier we get going the better,” Jungkook’s mom replies, looping her arm through the other woman’s as they go back inside.

Mrs. Park comes running back, grabbing onto her husband, “Dear, please come with me. I need you for something.”

Mr. Park looks startled but follows his wife nonetheless.

“Bye, Yoongi dear! It was nice seeing you,” Jimin’s mother pats Yoongi on the cheek as she passes by.

Jimin blinks owlishly.

Jin’s smirking at him, and Jimin threatens him with the best glare he can manage which seems to have an opposite effect than deterring him because he grins devilishly and wraps himself around Namjoon. He whispers something into his ear that has Namjoon choking on his sausage.

“Oh, are you okay babe?” Jin asks innocently. Namjoon nods, punching his chest as he coughs.

“Come on, let’s get you some water,” Jin pulls him out of his chair, leading him inside.

“There’s water here!” Jimin yells after them.

“We don’t want that water!” Jin yells back petulantly.

Jimin scoffs. He catches Yoongi’s amused expression and sighs.

Yoongi chuckles, “They couldn’t be more obvious if they tried huh?”

Jimin laughs, “No, I don’t think so.” He messes around with his chopsticks before putting them down. “Listen, Yoongi hyung...” he gulps unsure how to go about addressing the issue.

Yoongi hums, also putting his utensils down and giving Jimin his complete attention which only serves to make the younger more flustered.

“I–I don’t want to give you the wrong impression. I don’t know how emotionally available I am right now... or if I’ll ever really be ready for a relationship...”

Yoongi nods seriously, mulling the words over.

Jimin continues, “I don’t want to string you along and–and I don’t know, not be the type of partner you deserve. And I can tell already you deserve the best. I just don’t want you...to be disappointed.” Jimin finishes quietly, unsure if he was able to convey his feelings accurately.

Yoongi gets up, coming to sit beside Jimin. He places a warm hand on Jimin’s. “I don’t want you stressing over unnecessary worries, Jimin.”

Jimin looks up wanting to say something but clamps his mouth shut, deciding to let Yoongi speak as he had let Jimin do so earlier.

“It makes me feel all funny knowing you think I deserve... the best... or whatever,” Yoongi chuckles, “Frankly, I think you deserve the best too... and I know I’m nowhere near being the best, however...” Yoongi smiles softly at Jimin, making blood rush to Jimin’s face. He looks down shyly at Yoongi’s hand holding his, “Something about you, makes me want to try.”

Jimin gulps. Here was this amazing man, handsome, smart, charming, funny, holding onto him and saying such sweet words. So, why did he feel... nothing? Well, nothing compared to what he had felt with—

Why was his heart so stupid and stubborn? Why was it so set on making him suffer an eternal heart break? Why couldn’t it give him some reprieve and let him take comfort in someone else?

“I understand if you don’t want a relationship. I understand if you never want a serious relationship. But if it’s fear that’s really holding you back, fear that this will end up not working out... maybe just this once, you can take a leap of faith.”

Jimin considers the words. Was it fear that was stopping him? Was he scared that he could never love someone as much as he loved—that his feelings wouldn’t go away if he ever tries to be with someone else? What if he tries it with Yoongi, and his feelings don’t change? Could he use Yoongi like that?

There’s a part of him in the back of his mind yelling at him that this is exactly what he’s forcing Jungkook to go through, but he can’t stop to think about that. That way lays despair and hopelessness. Jimin wouldn’t be able to get out of that place. He’d spiral out of control until his mental state was too fragile to ever recover. No, he couldn’t think about it.

“Let yourself go, Jimin,” Yoongi interrupts the darkness that’s growing inside of him, “Let yourself feel whatever you want to feel without pressure or expectations. Let yourself live. If we don’t work out, then so be it, but there’s a chance that we may, and I don’t know about you, but I want to take the risk for that chance.”

Jimin takes in a laborious breath. Maybe he could learn. He could learn to love Yoongi. It shouldn’t be hard to fall in love with someone so kind, caring, and willing to put in the effort. Maybe an alternate future was possible for him. One where he wasn’t alone and wallowing in self-pity for the rest of his life. One where he had Yoongi beside him.

It could be possible. Jungkook could love Taehyung, and Jimin–he could learn to love Yoongi. Maybe that’s the way this was all meant to resolve.

“Hello?” Jungkook asks, voice hoarse from not talking for so long.

“Hey, it’s me,” Taehyung’s baritone voice answers, “Are you working?”

“No of course not. Why would I be working while at work?”

“Good!” Taehyung laughs, “I’m bored, please come back and entertain me.”

Jungkook rolls his eyes, chuckling, “I have to finish this part of the project before I can leave. Why don’t you hang out with Jimin, until I come back home?”

“I can’t” Taehyung whines, “Jimin’s out. Why would I call you otherwise?”

Jungkook stops his pencil. “Jimin’s out? Where?”

“He went out with Yoongi hyung! Isn’t that cute? I think they’re going to get along really well,” Taehyung giggles, “Wouldn’t that be great?”

Jungkook chuckles robotically, “Yeah, great.”

Yoongi and Jimin went out... like a date? They’ve known each for less than a day... and they went on a date? Jimin went on a date? The same Jimin that had refused to meet with Yoongi for over a year?

Jungkook was pushing Jimin to get married because he was hoping that it would help Jimin realize that whatever was happening wasn’t right. That Jimin would realize they belong with each other, to make Jimin fight for him. But what was going on?

Jimin was dancing with Yoongi, and laughing with him, and having drinks and talking privately behind pillars. He was socializing with Yoongi’s parents like he was a part of their family. And now he went out on a date with the other man. Yoongi certainly was interested, but he always assumed Jimin would push him away....so why didn’t he? Why was he going along with it?

“Jungkook?”

Jungkook startles, unclenching his fist and seeing red crescent marks where his nails had been digging into his palms.

“You still there?”

Jungkook laughs it off, “Yes, uh–why don’t you get dressed to go out? I’ll be there in fifteen.”

There’s a squeal on the other end, “Ah, thank you! I love you!”

“I’ll see you soon,” Jungkook promises, hanging up the phone.

“Hurry,” Taehyung crosses the street after a brief look to make sure there weren’t any oncoming cars.

“Be careful,” Jungkook grumbles, following after him.

Taehyung had decided last minute that he wanted to watch a movie and the two had scrambled to get to the theatre before the screening started.

Taehyung is vibrating beside Jungkook as they wait in line to buy tickets.

“Tae, calm down,” Jungkook mutters fiddling with his credit card.

“We’re so going to miss the beginning of the movie.”

Jungkook doesn’t get a chance to reply as the couple in front of them step away and they’re next. He pays for the two tickets, and as soon as they’re in his hands Taehyung is pulling him away.

“Oh no, the line for popcorn is so long too,” Taehyung whines, looking at him with literal puppy eyes.

“It’s up to you, do you want popcorn, or do you want to watch the beginning of the movie?”

Taehyung pouts, dialing up the puppy eyes to the max.

Jungkook chuckles, “Fine fine, you go watch the beginning of the movie. I’ll get the popcorn.”

“Thank you, Jungkook! You’re the best!” Taehyung gives him a peck on his cheek, taking a ticket from his hand. “I’ll see you inside!”

It’s a few minutes later, Jungkook finally reaches the counter, “Can I get two large popcorns–”

“Hey, make that four.”

Jungkook turns around to see Yoongi and Jimin. “H–hey, what are you both doing here?”

“Well, I was going to take Jimin to Disney, but he didn’t want to go. Can you imagine? Not wanting to go to Disney?” Yoongi retells incredulously. Jimin elbows him making Yoongi laugh. Jungkook clenches his jaw. Did Jimin not want to go to Disney because it had been their thing? Their first date? Or was he projecting? 

“So I thought, why not catch a movie? That’s a classic first date activity, right?”

“Hyung,” Jimin says softly, hiding his face in Yoongi’s shoulder. Yoongi has the audacity to look smug.

Jungkook turns away, paying for all of their popcorn.

“Where’s Taehyung?” Jimin asks from behind him.

“Inside. He didn’t want to miss the beginning of the movie.” Jungkook takes two of the popcorn buckets.

“The movie’s started?” Yoongi exclaims grabbing the other two and passing one to Jimin, “Then what are we doing still out here? Come on Jungkook. Let’s go. Honestly you talk too much.”

Jimin snorts, following them inside.

The three of them do their best to take their seats without disrupting everyone else too much. Jungkook sits down beside Taehyung, passing him his popcorn. Jimin sits down in between Yoongi and Jungkook.

“Jiminie? What are you doing here?” Taehyung asks over Jungkook.

Before he can reply, Yoongi leans over him and whispers back, “We’re here to play basketball. What about you?”

Taehyung rolls his eyes and Jimin has to cover his mouth to keep from laughing out loud. He smacks Yoongi’s shoulder gently. The elder’s shoulders shake as he laughs silently, sitting back up.

Jimin has no idea which film they were there to watch. He hasn’t been an avid movie watcher lately and wouldn’t be able to tell you which movies were currently playing, but when Yoongi looked so excited about catching the screening, Jimin couldn’t find it in him to refuse.

After breakfast, Jimin had had a few errands to run for the wedding, and Yoongi had volunteered to go along. Afterwards, the elder had wanted to take Jimin to Disney, but seeing that he really hadn’t been a fan of the idea, he instead had taken Jimin on a scenic drive around the city finishing off at the site of one of his latest projects which was an absolutely beautiful mansion in Beverly Hills. The project had just finished and Yoongi wanted to take a look around before the couple were scheduled to move in. Apparently, it had been one of his favourite projects, and he was quite proud of all the new design elements he had incorporated. You could see the way he couldn’t hide his smile that the elder was incredibly proud of how his design had come to life.

And for good reason, the place was absolutely breath taking. Jimin followed Yoongi in awe taking in the high ceilings, an open plan that gave you a vantage point of almost the entire first floor, floor to ceiling windows that doubled as doors in the kitchen to the backyard, pot lights that shone and reflected off of the large marble floors, an accent wall with rocks that Yoongi explained would have water cascading down it when on. With the lack of furniture, the place looked even bigger and more majestic. The entire place was extremely high class reflective of the high-class design. Jimin couldn’t help marveling at Yoongi’s artistic vision and obvious talent in architecture.

After a tour of the house, they had driven around some more before Yoongi had suggested they catch a movie, and here they were. He hadn’t expected to run into Jungkook and Taehyung. Nor did he think seeing Yoongi and him together would cause the fleeting look of betrayal in the younger’s eyes.

Jimin zones back in just as a possessed child appears on the screen accompanied by the swell of the terrifying film score. Jimin yelps, clutching onto the nearest arm and squeezing his eyes shut.

He takes a shaky breath, calming himself down. Coming to his senses, he realizes the person he’s clutching onto happens to be Jungkook. The younger is staring at where Jimin’s holding him in a death grip. Jimin immediately disentangles himself from the other as if burned, going so far as leaning closer to Yoongi to put as much distance between himself and Jungkook as possible.

Jimin clenches his jaw and holds onto the arm rests tightly, waiting agitatedly for the next jump scare. The creepy music is putting him on edge. Jimin flinches as someone grabs his hand. Jimin glances at Yoongi who looks just as terrified as he feels. As another scary demon child appears, Yoongi’s grip tightens on Jimin’s hand and Jimin actually lets out a scream. Yoongi turns to face him, amusement dancing in his eyes even in the dim illumination of the movie screen. The nerve he has to smirk when he looks just as scared makes Jimin huff, but at the next jump scare he finds himself clinging onto the elder and hiding his face in his shoulder.

Yoongi chuckles, shifting out of his hold. Jimin figures he’s making the elder uncomfortable. After all not everyone is as comfortable with skinship as him and Taehyung, so he makes to let go, but Yoongi stops him with a hand on his arm. Yoongi pushes up the arm rest out of the way with his other hand so Jimin can hold onto him more easily without the arm rest digging into his side. Jimin smiles softly at the thoughtfulness.

Yoongi really was a pretty great guy.

That evening they were all gathered in the Jeon’s backyard for a barbeque, and Yoongi had volunteered to help with the meat.

“Yoongi these lamb skewers are amazing,” Jimin’s dad compliments helping himself to the last of the already cooked skewers. It was good that Yoongi was already grilling the second batch. “Where did you learn how to make these?”

Yoongi smiles bashfully, “My older brother owns a restaurant. He taught me.”

Jimin’s mom catches his eye, raising a delicate brow. Jimin rolls his eyes, turning around to enjoy his lamb skewers in peace.

Jimin’s mom sighs, getting up to grab some more food. She’s waiting for Yoongi to finish the new batch when she gasps, “Yoongi dear, what are these scratches on your arms?”

Jimin snaps his head up. Yoongi smirks in his direction before turning around and sticking his arm out with a pout, displaying the red scratches blooming on his white marble like skin, “Look, look what your son did.”

Jimin’s ears burn as everyone turns to face him.

“Kinky,” Taehyung mutters beside him. Jimin’s eyes widen.

“What–what are you even saying?” Jimin hisses, smacking the younger, but the other just laughs insufferably.

“Oh, you poor thing,” his mother hold’s Yoongi’s arm gently turning it around and surveying the damage, “When he was little, I used to cut his nails for him. Now that he’s older he doesn’t listen. I swear he’s become so lazy.”

Jimin sighs.

“I’m glad the movie was only an hour and a half, if it was any longer, my arm wouldn’t have survived,” Yoongi continues to tease, making everyone laugh.

Jimin huffs, stuffing his face with the rest of the admittedly delicious lamb.

Of their own volition, Jimin’s eyes seek out Jungkook only to find him already studying Jimin. There’s an intensity in his gaze, and he’s sticking his tongue against his cheek revealing his annoyance. There’s a pang in his chest knowing it’s his fault no doubt.

Jimin gets up, tossing his disposable plate in the garbage bag.

“You don’t want more?” Yoongi asks, a minuscule frown marring his happy demeanor.

“No, I’m full–”

“But you only had two?”

“I had some pasta salad too…” Jimin ignores his mother nudging his father and throwing a conspiratorial look their way.

“You sure?”

Jimin nods, “I’m going to turn in. I woke up early so I’m kind of tired.”

Yoongi has a look in his eyes that Jimin can’t decipher, but he nods and mutters a quiet goodnight.

Jimin waves bye to Taehyung, Namjoon, and Jin as he passes bye. “Goodnight, everyone.”

He’s met with a chorus of goodnights back.

Although he was actually feeling tired earlier, after changing into his sleeping clothes and getting ready for bed he felt wide awake, so he grabs a novel out of his backpack and cozies into bed.

Jimin’s really getting into the story when there’s a quiet knock at the door.  

“Yeah?”

“It’s me,” comes Yoongi’s muffled voice, “Can I come in?”

“’Course,” Jimin lowers his book as Yoongi enters.

“Hey…” the elder greets looking somewhere to the side of Jimin.

“Hey…?”

“…”

“…um did you–”

“I’m sorry.”

Jimin blinks. “…huh?”

“I’m sorry if I made you upset earlier–outside–I didn’t mean to. I might’ve taken the teasing too far–”

His rambling cuts off as Jimin starts laughing, “What are you talking about, hyung? I’m not upset? I was seriously tired, I swear.”

“Oh…” Yoongi looks at his feet, and then finally looks at Jimin, “Then I’ll let you get back to your book.”  

Jimin’s gaze softens, “Okay...”

Yoongi steps out, and Jimin settles into his nest again, yet before he can even find his place in the book there’s another knock.

It’s Yoongi again, “So you’re sure you’re not upset?”

Jimin smiles, “Yes, hyung.”

“Okay. Good. I wanted to make sure,” Yoongi nods, leaving.

Jimin only manages to lift his book before there’s another knock. Jimin finds himself giggling and putting his book down as Yoongi steps in again, “So if you’re not upset, we’ll meet again tomorrow?”

“Yes, hyung.”

“Perfect,” Yoongi nods, stepping out.

Jimin shakes his head, smiling fondly.

Knock. Knock.  

“Oh my god,” Jimin doubles over laughing.

“Dinner with my parents tomorrow night?” Yoongi asks. He’s grinning, clearly very amused by his own antics.

“Sure, hyung.”

This time, Yoongi doesn’t even bother pretending to leave, instead leaning against the doorframe. Knock knock.

“Yes, hyung?”

“If you’re meeting my parents, I think we’re close enough for you to drop the honorifics.”

To be fair, he’s already met Yoongi’s parents. Briefly. But still. Yet the way Yoongi phrased that in that way...Jimin looks down at the book in his lap as he feels the blood rushing to his face. “Sure…Yoongi?” He speaks softly, feeling strange at the sudden informality.

Knock knock.

Jimin giggles exasperatedly.

“Will you marry me?”

Jimin whips his head up. Smile wiped clean from his face, replaced with utter shock. “W–w–what?”

Yoongi chuckles, scratching his neck and flexing his biceps inevitably, “Well you were agreeing to everything, so I thought I’d give it a try.”

Jimin is left speechless. Amused, but still speechless. Not knowing how to respond, he shakes his head and picks up his book, returning to his story. “Goodnight, Yoongi,” he dismisses, without looking up.

Yoongi snickers, “Okay okay, goodnight! I’ll leave for good…I promise.”

Jimin holds his breath. There’s silence. Just as Jimin is thinking he can finally return to his book–

Knock knock knock.

“Oh my god–Yoongi!” Jimin snatches up a pillow, prepared to hurl it at the other. However, it’s not Yoongi in the doorway, but Jungkook, fist still in the air.

“Jungkook,” the younger corrects icily.

Jimin gulps, putting down his pillow and ignoring the way his heartbeat goes crazy anytime he sees the other.

The silence that falls over them is painful, so Jimin musters up all his courage and asks, “Did you–did you need something?”

“I…” Jungkook seems to be struggling, and Jimin doesn’t know if he wants him to work out what he wants to say or not. He walks closer, coming to the edge of the bed standing a few feet away from where Jimin is, “I…”  

Jimin gnaws at his bottom lip, heart beating even faster at the proximity. Jimin’s fingers twitch where he’s clutching his book to keep himself from reaching out towards the younger.

Jungkook clenches his fist and grits his teeth. “When are you getting married, Jimin?”

Perhaps it was the fact that Yoongi had asked him to marry him mere minutes ago, albeit jokingly, but Jimin’s insides jump in fear as the prospect has never felt so real before. “Jung–Jungkook, stop this.”

Jungkook braces himself on both hands on the edge of the bed, and leans forward inches away from his face, towering over him because he was standing. Jimin automatically leans back, turning his head to the side.

“That’s what I want, Jimin,” his voice is quiet but for some reason it rings through Jimin, “To stop this madness. For you to stop this. I want you to tell me not to get married. I want you to stop entertaining this crazy idea of yours where you think just because I marry someone else, I’ll fall in love and forget about you… You’re my person Jimin. You have always been my person, and you will always stay my person… So, stop. Please stop all of this.”

“It’s too late,” Jimin let’s out in a trance. He could feel the wall he had built to stay strong in front of Jungkook chipping away as the cracks spread and grow bigger endangering the integrity of his defense.

“Jimin–”

Jimin shakes his head. Pressing a hand to Jungkook’s chest and pushing gently. “I’m sorry, Jungkook. It’s too late.”

Jungkook slams a fist against the mattress, straightening up. Jimin blinks twice, barely stopping himself from flinching.

Jungkook covers his distressed expression with a hand, lowering his head and breathing heavy as he calms down. Taking a minute to gather himself, Jungkook turns on his heels and walks away.

He stops with a hand on the doorhandle, “If you get married to someone else, then I’ll accept your decision. I’ll marry Taehyung, and–and I’ll be a good husband.”

Not waiting for some sort of reaction, Jungkook leaves, closing the door behind him.

Chapter Text

At some point, Jimin and Taehyung had broken away from the group and wandered to a different part of the mall. They had left Yoongi, Jungkook, Namjoon, and Jin at a Gucci display.

They’ve entered a random store mainly because it caught Taehyung’s eye, and Jimin is happy to follow. They browse around a few displays.

“Jimin?” Taehyung says hesitantly.

Jimin looks up from his rifling, “Hm?”

“I was thinking of telling Jungkook the truth.”

Jimin snapped his eyes up, “What?”

“I’m about to marry Jungkook,” Taehyung looks solemn and his complexion has become pale, nothing like the glowing groom he should be looking like. “I don’t want to start our life together based on a lie.”

Jimin’s heart goes out to his best friend, but he’s scared of how Jungkook would react if Taehyung came clean. There’s a worry gnawing at him that Jungkook would use the chance as an excuse to call off the wedding.

“Taehyung, maybe you should just let it be. Jungkook doesn’t bring up the emails anymore right?” Taehyung nods. “Exactly. Just leave the emails in the past and focus on your future.”

Taehyung looks completive, “It feels wrong...”

“Sometimes the truth does more harm than good, Tae,” Jimin answers hesitantly.

“I suppose.”

Jimin walks over to his best friend, knocking his shoulder against his playfully, “Come on, Taetae. You always say how can you make new memories if you’re stuck in the old ones, right? So you need to heed your own words. Forget the emails. What’s important is you love him, and you’re about to get married.”

Taehyung smiles softly, “I guess you’re right.”

“Hey, do you think Jimin would like this?” Yoongi asks, holding up a beige backpack with a large red and green Gucci band running down the center.

It’s Jungkook who answers, shaking his head, “He prefers side bags, typically black.”

Namjoon and Jin who had been browsing nearby exchange a look.

Jungkook leads Yoongi to the Saint Laurent section. He studies the displays before grabbing one and handing it to Yoongi, “Like this one.”

Yoongi nods, not wasting any time and heading for the checkout. He trusts Jungkook’s judgment.

“What else does he like?” Yoongi asks as they wait for the person before them to finish.

“Jimin likes the colour red...and blue too,” Jungkook lists off as Namjoon and Jin join them not having found anything worth purchasing, “But for clothes he’s pretty open minded. He likes polos, and oversized shirts, but also dress shirts. He can literally pull off anything.”

Jin furrows his brows as he continues to listen to Jungkook.

*** 

“Tell me about Jungkook,” Taehyung requests, flipping through a rack of shirts, “You used to be all Jungkook this and Jungkook that, and now you don’t even say his name.”

Jimin hopes his smile successfully hides his panic, “Jungkook–he likes the colour yellow, but you wouldn’t believe that by how much he wears black. He also likes cute things though. That’s just how he is, his appearance and aesthetic make you think he’s one way, but then you get to know him and realize he’s really soft too.”

*** 

“Jimin likes little gestures,” Jungkook goes on as they walk down the mall looking for stores that catch their eyes, “Things that make him realize you think about him and care for him, but he also appreciates the occasional grand gesture.”

Jin wants to go check out a Rolex display, so everyone follows him inside the jewelry store.

“He likes genuine compliments and praise,” Jungkook keeps going, leaning against a display case. Yoongi nods while taking a look at the rings, so Jungkook knows he’s listening, “You might think he doesn’t because he’ll never handle it well. He either changes the subject or says something awkward or brushes it off, but it makes him really happy.”

*** 

“Jungkook is a hopeless romantic actually,” Jimin chuckles, “He believes in all those stories about soulmates. He believes in true love.”

Jimin trails off.

“Yeah?” Taehyung urges him to continue.

“Yeah. He once told me, via email of course, that he watched Your Name and he’ll know he’s met his soulmate when he hears a bell. Another time he went off about the red string of fate.”

Jimin had always been a practical person, he hadn’t always believed that he’d fall in love and what not. No, Jimin thinks part of the reason he himself began to believe in love was because of Jungkook’s views on it. He began craving the love Jungkook described. The one full of devotion and unconditional love and support. He began believing that they were made to make sure people who believed in it, people who would work for it. He began thinking it may be possible. You just had to wait for the right person.

It’s funny. Jungkook made Jimin believe in love, and Jimin... well Jimin might be the reason that Jungkook stops.

It would be all his fault.

*** 

“And the most important thing is he’s selfless. So stupidly selfless. He doesn’t let anyone help him. He’d sacrifice his own happiness for his loved ones. He’s an extraordinary person but doesn’t realize it. He’s stupid like that.”

Yoongi stares. Jungkook sighs. “You need to show him. You need to show him every day that he deserves the world, until he accepts it too.”

*** 

“Taehyung?” Jimin starts, but he can’t bring himself to ask the question he wants to.  How could he say something like that? How could he ask his best friend to make sure that Jungkook is happy, how can he ask his best friend to keep Jungkook happy because the youngest deserves the world? Wouldn’t that be too revealing?

After all, Taehyung was his best friend. That was not just a label. He loves Taehyung just as much. Not in the same way, but that didn’t mean he loves him any less.

Jimin clears his throat and rephrases his sentiment, “I hope the two of you make each other happy for the rest of your lives.”

Taehyung ducks his head, “Don’t make me cry in public, stupid.”

Jimin giggles wetly.

*** 

“Look Ja-min!” Jin giggles, shoving his wrist in Jimin’s face as Namjoon shows his to Taehyung. Jin is wearing a beautiful rose gold Rolex. Jimin glances to see a matching silver one on Namjoon’s wrist.

“That’s really cute, hyung,” Jimin answers honestly, turning the eldest’s wrist to take a closer look.

Jin smiles shyly at Namjoon, who looks equally bashful, his adorable dimples deepening.

“Jimin-ah we need matching jewelry,” Yoongi pouts.

Jimin raises a brow, “Why?”

Yoongi gestures to the wristwatches on Namjoon and Jin, and at the lock pendent bracelets on Jungkook and Taehyung, “I feel left out.”

Everyone laughs, except Jungkook, but he’s smiling at least.

“What did you have in mind?”

Yoongi’s eyes sparkle, “Wait really?”

“Sure.”

“I was thinking...a ring? A wedding ring!” Yoongi winks.

“Never mind, forget it,” Jimin rolls his eyes, walking away.

“Wait Jimin–ah! I was joking! It doesn’t have to be a ring! Ugh, you’re such a tease.”

Jimin enters their shared room for the night to find Taehyung seated on the window seat, looking outside.

“Taehyung, you okay?”

He nods.

“What’s that?” Jimin nods his head towards the fold paper in his hands.

Taehyung doesn’t answer for so long that Jimin was debating whether to ask again or let it be, but he finally does, “My acceptance letter to the Design Masters program at SNU.”

Jimin gasps, taking the letter out of Taehyung’s hand and reading it for himself.

“You didn’t tell me you got in,” Jimin exclaims, “I thought you hadn’t gotten accepted, so I didn’t want to bring it up. Why didn’t you tell me?”

“Because it’s not going to happen,” Taehyung mutters, head resting against the window. His face is solemn in the glow of the moon.

“But it’s the program you’ve wanted to get into since middle school?” Jimin says gently. He knows that Taehyung knows that, but he doesn’t understand and wants to make sense of the situation.

“You’ve always had a plan, and getting your degree was part of it.”

“Plans change,” Taehyung drawls.

“So you don’t want to do it anymore?”

Taehyung doesn’t respond, and Jimin doesn’t push him. He knows he’s toeing a line, and he doesn’t want to cross it.

He would’ve in the past. He was Taehyung’s best friend after all. He would’ve done it, before Taehyung’s grandma...

Jimin studies the letter in his lap. He notices the smudged words in certain spots, ink having bled and become blotched due to water damage. The entire paper was creased like it had been crumpled up and straightened out, perhaps multiple times.

Jimin feels something boiling inside of him. Perhaps his frustration was misdirected and needed some type of excuse to be let out, and perhaps this was not appropriate, but Jimin felt angry.

Taehyung’s grandma died. Yes. But Jimin was still Taehyung’s best friend. And Taehyung was still the same Taehyung that he’d been before the incident. And Taehyung had his whole life left to live. If Jimin was going to tip toe around him, if he was going to treat him like he was broken, then he didn’t have any right to be called Taehyung’s platonic soulmate.

Jimin huffs, grabbing Taehyung’s face in between his hands and forcing the younger to face him, “Taehyung, do you not want to get your degree anymore?”

Taehyung is stubbornly looking downward to avoid eye contact. Jimin growls, lowering his head to force himself into Taehyung’s line of sight.

Taehyung darts his eyes upwards so he’s staring at the ceiling. Jimin grumbles, getting up to straddle Taehyung. He squeezes the sides of his head, “Look at me.”

Taehyung yelps when Jimin pinches his cheek.

“What?” He glares at him.

“Do you not want to get your degree anymore?” Jimin grits out, but then decides maybe he escalated a little too quickly, and says more calmly, “It’s okay if you don’t, but I need an honest answer.”

“I don’t know...” 

Jimin let’s himself sit down on Taehyung’s lap, “Why didn’t you tell me?”

“I knew you’d convince me to go through with it.”

“I wouldn’t have forced you, Taehyung,” Jimin frowns. Was that true? He was forcing Jungkook’s hand. Maybe he might’ve forced Taehyung too. Who was to say. Maybe Jimin was exactly that type of person. “I’m sorry,” Jimin utters hollowly. Fear gripping his insides. What kind of person had he become? All he wanted to do was the right thing, but there doesn’t seem to be any right option anymore. There’s pain and heartbreak no matter which path he chooses. There’s nothing Jimin can do to escape. Maybe he should run away. Would that solve anything?

Jimin shakes his head. This wasn’t about him.

“No, Jimin,” Taehyung looks at him tiredly, “I knew you could convince me because you knew how badly I wanted it.”

It sounds like an admittance. “I don’t understand, then why don’t you...?”

Taehyung sighs, “I got the letter three days before Grandma passed away. But then she–she–she was gone. And I was alone. And I didn’t know if I could go through with it. And then Jungkook was there, and all of a sudden, he was my rock. I felt like I had to hold onto him, or I’d be lost. I couldn’t let go of him. I couldn’t have him leave me either. So, I agreed to get married. I needed it. I needed him.”

“Taehyung,” Jimin cries. It hurts knowing how alone Taehyung had felt, and possibly still feels. What is Jimin supposed to do to help? Was there anything he could do?

Taehyung smiles, “I’m okay. I promise. I’m doing better. A lot better.”

“So then why do you look like you’re still hurting?” Jimin whispers.

Taehyung snaps his eyes up. His face breaking as if he couldn’t hold it any longer. He drops his head, shoulders shaking as Jimin sees the first tear drop into his lap, soaking into his pants.

Jimin wraps his arms around Taehyung and holds him, letting him cry into his shoulder. Jimin runs his hands through Taehyung’s hair, hoping he finds it soothing.

“I’m so sorry, Taetae. That was an amazing program. I wish you still had the choice.”

Taehyung sniffles, “Technically, I do.”

Jimin pulls back, “What?”

Taehyung wipes his dripping nose with the back of his sleeve, “I accepted the offer the same day I got the letter.”

Jimin’s eyes widen, “So that means?”

Taehyung nods, “If I get my deposit in time to meet the deadline, I’d still be allowed to attend.”

“When’s the deadline?”

Taehyung laughs humourlessly, “The day of our wedding. Isn’t that ironic?”

Jimin squeals, “Taehyung, put the deposit down.”

“I can’t,” Taehyung squeezes his eyes shut.

“Why not?”

“Chim, I’m getting married.”

“I know. So? Just because you’re married doesn’t mean you have to give up on your dreams?”

“But I’d have to live in Seoul until I’m done my degree. I’d have just gotten married, and already be living separate from Jungkook. I’m scared, Chim. That if I don’t hold on tight, I’ll lose him,” Taehyung studies his hands, “Isn’t the first year of marriage supposed to be the most important? How do I expect us to work if we’re across the ocean from each other?”

“Taehyung,” Jimin rubs his thumbs over his hands, “You’ll still have the rest of your lives.”

Taehyung’s eyes begin to look hopeful, but he’s still holding himself back, still unsure. Yet, the tiniest bit of hope was enough for Jimin because it meant Taehyung wanted this as much as Jimin wanted this for him.

“Talk to Jungkook,” Jimin advises, “He’s caring. He’s understanding. Discuss it with him. Maybe he can move to Seoul for two years? I know you two can figure this out. Even if you have to live apart for two years, I’m sure you’ll be able to survive this. You don’t have to give up one for the other. You can have both, Tae. Okay?”

Taehyungs nods. “Okay,” he replies hoarsely, “I’ll talk to Jungkook about it.”

“Good,” Jimin kisses the top of Taehyung’s head, “It’ll work out.”

“A little closer, please,” the photographer requests, clicking another photograph as Taehyung steps closer to Jungkook, placing an arm around the younger’s waist. “Good, good! Let’s try another pose.”

Taehyung puts his hand delicately on Jungkook’s chest. Jungkook lifts an arm, placing it around Taehyung’s waist as well.

“Nice!” Click! “Can you look at each other?”

Taehyung and Jungkook turn to face each other. Taehyung can’t help but smile his endearing boxy smile of his, making Jungkook smile softly as well.

Jimin, who’s been watching from one of the nearby picnic benches, turns away. Jin, studies his dongsaeng sadly.

It was Jungkook and Taehyung’s engagement photo shoot. They had decided to do it at a local rose garden, early in the morning so there weren’t too many people around. Jungkook and Taehyung were dressed to the tens. Taehyung in a bright, bold, red suit ensemble, and Jungkook in a black jacket embezzled with black jewels that shone as he moved.  It was a beautiful, sunny morning, typical of the Golden State.

Jin opens his mouth, but Namjoon places his hand over Jin’s fist. He shakes his head subtly.

Jin sighs.

He’s reminded of how furious he had been when Jimin had come over and explained everything that had happened and how Taehyung was going to marry Jungkook. If Namjoon hadn’t been there, Jin doesn’t think he’d have handled the situation well. He was so upset that Jimin was hurting himself, doing things with no thought for his own well-being. Normally, Taehyung would help him snap the idiot out of his self-deprecating spiral, but well clearly that wasn’t an option this time around.

He’s had half a mind to tell Taehyung everything, but Namjoon calms him down every time. It wasn’t their place to interfere, Namjoon had reminded him. All they could do was be there for Jimin. And Jungkook.

Both he and Namjoon had grown closer to Jungkook in that week when he had visited for the funeral. They were the only ones who knew of the entire situation, other than Jimin and Jungkook themselves. Jungkook had cried when they had invited him over and explained that they knew. He had let himself break down, begging them to talk Jimin out of it. It had fractured their hearts further seeing the youngest so distraught. They’ve never felt more helpless.

Now as they watch him do everything in preparation to marry someone else, they can’t help but notice the sadness in his eyes. He may smile, he may say the right things, and do everything expected of him, but his eyes gave him away. They lacked the sparkles and life that his big doe eyes held during those two weeks of summer break.

“How’s the photo shoot going?” Yoongi plops down next to Jimin startling Jin out of his musings. And then there was this man. Jin didn’t know what to feel about him. On the one hand, he’s grateful to him, Jimin needs someone, and Yoongi seems to genuinely care for his friend. Then there’s the other part of Jin, the part that still hopes for a miracle, a fairytale ending in which Jimin and Jungkook work out because they’re meant to be; that part of Jin doesn’t appreciate Yoongi butting in and creating even more obstacles for Jimin and Jungkook. It’s not fair to hold such animosity towards Yoongi, Jin knows that too. After all, it’s not like Yoongi knows about the emails, or the history between Jimin and Jungkook.

“Yeah, I think they’re almost done,” Jimin answers pleasantly. At least Yoongi makes Jimin smile again, Jin muses, a real smile. Not the forced smile he has to maintain in front of his family and Taehyung, but a lighthearted one that’s a pleasant change.

“Perfect,” Yoongi grins, getting up, “Then it’s our turn.”

Jin chuckles at Jimin’s weak protests as Yoongi goes over and whispers something to the photographer.

“Yoongi,” Jimin whines, tugging a little at his wrist that’s being held firmly in Yoongi’s grip as they stand off to the side, watching Jungkook and Taehyung finish up their last few shots. Yoongi let’s go, instead placing his hand on Jimin’s lower back.

“Well, if we’re not getting married, let’s at least take some pictures. That way I can tell everyone I tried my very best,” Yoongi smirks, seeing Jimin roll his eyes.

“Don’t waste the photographer’s time,” Jimin chastises, patting Yoongi’s chest, “Let him focus on the couple that’s actually getting married.”

“I talked to him already, he said he doesn’t have anything booked for the rest of the morning, so I hired him,” Yoongi smiles proudly. Jimin sputters in his arms.

“Oh, look he’s finished. Let’s go!” Yoongi leads a reluctant Jimin over to where the photographer was beckoning them. Taehyung winks at Jimin as he and Jungkook pass by. Jimin feels his ears burn.

“Since you’re both dressed more casually, I think candid poses will work better. Maybe I’ll have you two walk down the path and interact however you’d like. How does that sound?”

Yoongi looks to Jimin for his reaction. Jimin feels silly taking photos for no reason, but Yoongi seems excited, so he nods. Yoongi squeezes his hand, turning back to the photographer, “You’re the expert. Sounds good.”

The photo shoot ends up being quite fun, to Jimin’s surprise, with Yoongi making sarcastic remarks and silly jokes to keep Jimin laughing. The photographer keeps clicking away, directing the two every now and then. They wrap up their improv photo shoot in no time and see Namjoon talking to the photographer.

“Are you and Jin hyung going to take some pictures too?” Jimin asks teasingly, walking up to their friend and the photographer.

Namjoon fidgets, scratching his neck. He glances over his shoulder to where Jin is chatting with Jungkook and Taehyung. “Actually, I was thinking about proposing.”

Jimin gasps, hands flying to his mouth. His eyes well up with tears. He had gotten to watch Namjoon and Jin fall in love firsthand. And now after 10 years, to see them wanting to get married. It was all a little overwhelming.

“Oh Jimin,” Namjoon murmurs, hugging Jimin. Jimin squeezes the elder tight. Accepting the rare moments of intimacy with gratitude.

“Is this okay? I can propose some other time, if it’s too much for you?” Namjoon whispers into Jimin’s ear.

Jimin shakes his head furiously, “No! Don’t you dare! I’m just so happy–I can’t help it.”

Namjoon’s chest rumbles as he chuckles, “Good. Then do you want to be by best man? I figure I should ask before Jin can if I want to secure you for the position.”

Jimin laughs, pulling away and swatting at Namjoon, “Cheater! Ask him to marry you first, and then we’ll see.”

Namjoon grins. His happiness is contagious, and Jimin feels the hysterical laughter building up. He was so excited.

“Is everything okay over here? Jimin?” Jin comes over, brows furrowed slightly.

Jimin bites his lip, to stop himself from smiling. “‘M fine, hyung.”

Jimin is practically vibrating as Namjoon nods to the photographer. He grabs a confused Jin by the waist and leads him down the path.

Jimin watches the couple walk a bit away, surrounded by roses and doused in sunshine. He watches as Namjoon stops and turns to face Jin. He grabs both of Jin’s hands in his own.

Meanwhile, the photographer, bless his soul–is snapping away on his camera.

Taehyung and Jungkook join the group with identical expressions of confusion.

“What’s going on?” Jungkook asks.

Yoongi elbows him in the side, shushing him and telling him to “just watch”.

Namjoon is speaking too softly for everyone to hear, giving the couple some privacy from their audience. Namjoon let’s go of Jin’s hands and gets down on one knee.

Jimin and Taehyung gasp in unison. Jin is covering his mouth with a hand, as he shakes.

Namjoon fumbles, searching his jacket, until he finally pulls out a little red box. His shoulders relax in relief. He opens the box, holding it up for his partner, and asks Jin to marry him.

Jin, wipes his eyes roughly. He shouts yes, bending down, and wrapping his arms around Namjoon. They bury their heads in each other’s shoulders, lost in the embrace.

Jimin not wanting to interfere, turns to hug Taehyung instead.

“I can’t believe this!” Taehyung whisper yells.

“Me neither!” Jimin giggles.

“I’m so happy for them!”

“Me, too!”

The pictures from the photo shoot are ready in two days. The photographer must have put them on an express order, getting all the copies ready so fast for them.

Everyone marvels as the photos are passed around.

“Hyung, we should get married on the same day!” Taehyung grins, eyes glued to the photos of Jin and Namjoon’s proposal.

Namjoon chuckles, pecking his fiancé–his fiancé! –on the cheek, “I don’t think our families would appreciate us eloping in America. Sorry, Tae.”

“That’s fair,” Taehyung laughs, passing the photographs to Jin in exchange for the ones he and Namjoon were looking at. 

Yoongi somehow ends up squished beside Jimin, leaning into him as he watches Jimin flip through their photos.

“I like that one,” Yoongi nods with his chin, “You look beautiful.”

In the picture, Jimin was caught mid laugh, and Yoongi was smiling that gummy smile of his that shows up when he’s really happy.

“I do, too,” Jimin replies quietly, “Your smile looks pretty.”

Yoongi ducks his head.

Jimin’s mother takes their photos from Jimin, handing him Taehyung and Jungkook’s set.

Jimin holds the images gingerly, flipping through them at what he hopes is a decent pace, self-conscious of the fact that Yoongi is looking at them from beside him.

Every single picture looks beautiful. Jungkook and Taehyung look like models, with their beautiful figures, beautiful smiles, beautiful faces. Their beauty out of this world.

Jimin doesn’t want to let himself look too long at Jungkook, but it’s like his eyes are hypnotized. Fixated on the smile that tugged at his heartstrings. The mole below his lips. His eyes. His nose. His neck. His Adam’s apple. The way the jacket stretched over his shoulders but cinched at his impossibly small waist.

Has he been looking at this picture for too long? Jimin hurriedly moves on to the next one. His stomach feels heavy at looking at Jungkook the way he does. Jungkook is getting married to Taehyung. Jungkook is marrying his best friend. Jimin swallows down the acidic bolus. He’s disgusting.

“Do you think your mom would let me keep one of our pictures? The way she’s holding them I don’t think I’ll ever see those again.”

Jimin looks up to see that Yoongi was right. Jimin’s mom and dad were looking at the pictures of Jimin and Yoongi like they were best thing to ever happen to them.

Jimin sinks into his seat more, trying to disappear so he didn’t have to bear the embarrassment any longer.

Jimin finds Jungkook by the pool. “You wanted to talk?”

“Would you like some chips?”

Jimin blinks, shaking his head. He waits as Jungkook finishes his snack and throws away the packaging.

Jungkook turns to face Jimin. Jimin gulps, stepping back and hitting the wall. He decides to lean against it hoping it looks casual and not like he was trying to get away from Jungkook.

“Your mother has entrusted me with a very important task, Jimin.”

Jimin shivers at the cold aloofness in his voice. He’ll never get used to it.

“Your parents really like Yoongi hyung, and they think I’m the only one that can talk to you about him, the only one that can convince you to say yes,” Jungkook cocks his head, “So what do you say?”

“I can’t get married to someone so quickly,” Jimin mutters, bowing his head.

“Why not? Arranged marriages are so common after all. Your parents had an arranged marriage, I don’t even think they met each other beforehand. At least you and Yoongi hyung know each other.” Jungkook steps closer, placing his hands on either side of Jimin’s face, caging him in. His voice lowers, “And as far I can tell, you’re starting to like him.”

Jimin says nothing.

“Unless the problem is that you’re in love with someone else? Is that it, Jimin?”

Jimin squeezes his eyes shut.

“24 hours, Jimin,” Jungkook hisses, “If within 24 hours you don’t keep your end of the deal, I’ll break off the marriage, and I’ll tell everyone that I’m in love with you.” 

Jimin snaps his eyes open. “Jungkook,” Jimin begs. He grabs onto Jungkook’s arms, “Please.”

Jungkook’s eyes are glass. His hand comes up to splay across Jimin’s jaw, thumb resting firmly on his cheekbone. Jungkook leans down. Jimin closes his eyes again just before he feels Jungkook’s lips press against his forehead. Lightening shoots through Jimin from the point where Jungkook’s lips meet his skin.

Jimin shivers involuntarily, fluttering his eyes open as Jungkook steps back.

“I’m done playing, Jimin. 24 hours.”

Jimin stands there, unable to move, heart racing out of his chest, until Jin finds him, yelling at him to start getting ready to go out.

“You okay, Jimin-ah?” Jin asks as he comes closer and sees the state of the younger, his brows furrow, “You look like you’ve seen a ghost.”

Jimin blinks owlishly. “‘m fine, hyung,” he shakes his head as if to physics shake himself out of his stupor, “Let’s go.”

Jin grabs his wrist as he’s leaving, “Jimin.” There’s a warning in his voice, “Something happened, didn’t it?”

Jimin sinks into a crouch, burying his face into the hand that’s not being held by Jin. “I’m scared, hyung.”

“What–?”

“Oh, you found Jimin! Good!” It’s Taehyung’s voice.

Jimin bounces up, with a smile already plastered to his face, but even to himself it feels weak, “Hey, Tae. Yeah, sorry. Let’s go get ready!”

Taehyung comes to a stop in front of him. He studies Jimin. “Is something wrong?”

“No, of course not! Come on!” Jimin grabs Taehyung’s hand, “Come on Jin hyung, let’s go.”

“...I’m right behind you.”

“Did you talk to Jungkook about SNU?” Jimin asks applying the base of his eye makeup.

Taehyung smiles sheepishly as he styles his hair next to Jimin, “About that...”

“So not yet,” Jimin finishes.

“Hehe...”

“Tae...”

“I know, I know. I will. I’ll talk to him about it. Soon. I promise.”

“Okay.”

It was Yoongi and Taehyung’s idea to have a last-minute joint bachelor party for both Jungkook and Taehyung. Jimin had offered to help organize it, but Yoongi had declined, saying he’d be fine.

No one knew what Yoongi had planned for tonight.

“Do you think he hired some strippers?” Taehyung asks in an excited whisper as they make their way outside to meet the rest who were waiting for their taxis to arrive.

“Taehyung, you’re a promised man,” Jimin rolls his eyes, but he’s smiling, “Control your thirst.”

“But isn’t that what bachelor parties are about?” Taehyung asks seriously.

Jimin hums, thoughtfully. Neither of them had attended a bachelor party before. Who knows what they were supposed to be like or if Yoongi would even throw a traditional one like in the movies.

“Would you really be okay with having a stripper there? I mean Jungkook is going to be there too?”

Taehyung cocks his head, “So?”

Jimin raises a brow, “So? That wouldn’t make you jealous?”

Taehyung frowns, “I don’t think so...should it?”

Jimin blinks. Was that what it was like being secure with yourself?

“Is it wrong that it doesn’t?” Taehyung mutters.

“No of course not, Tae. It means you’re not stupid, and that you trust Jungkook. He would never cheat on you.”

Memories of Jungkook kissing Jimin’s forehead flood Jimin’s mind. That’s wasn’t cheating...right?

Jimin’s stomach feels queasy.

“Right...” Taehyung nods.

A karaoke bar. Yoongi had planned a bachelor party in a karaoke bar.

Okay to be fair, this was the coolest and fanciest karaoke bar Jimin had ever seen, and honestly it was perfect for them. Better than a bar or a club or strippers.

Jimin watches with amusement as a flustered Yoongi explains to Taehyung that there wouldn’t be any strippers coming.

Taehyung pouts and takes monopoly over the song selection device, claiming that he should get to choose the first five songs as compensation.

Jimin laughs, settling in besides Namjoon on one of the large L-shaped sofas along the back and side walls. There’s also a long glass table in front of them with five or so menus to select food from.

Yoongi has reserved an impressively spacious room in one of the most luxurious Norabangs in LA, Bulletproof. The interior is gorgeous, with rope lights outlining the ceiling and floor, dousing the dimly lit room in a pretty purple glow. There are various spotlights around the room that Jimin assumes helps set the mood based on the song.

Sure enough, the lighting changes to red as Taehyung queues up the first song.

There’s a large screen against the opposite wall, that shows Taehyung browsing the expansive song collection consisting of not only western but Korean songs as well. In the center of the room is a slightly elevated platform. To the side of the platform there are three mic stands, as well as a table holding five mics. There’s a chest beside the table that Jin is rummaging through, pulling out various props including a cape and a clown wig.

Jungkook and Yoongi are by the small bar in the corner, ordering drinks from the sharply dressed bartender. As if Jungkook has a magic pull on Jimin, he takes extra notice of the younger. How good he looks in a simple black dress shirt, tucked into form fitting black slacks, accentuating his tiny waist. His dark chocolate hair is styled out of his face, giving him an older more mature look.

Namjoon clears his throat, and Jimin tears his eyes away, picking up a menu to distract himself.

“Jimin-ah,” Namjoon says with light reprimand.

Jimin nods, acknowledging it.

Taehyung turns on the disco ball, and the room fills with sparkling light as Psy’s New Face comes on.

There are cheers around the room as Taehyung grabs a mic and takes center stage with the ridiculous clown wig replacing his beautiful blond locks.

Namjoon gets up, lifting Jimin along with him. He guides Jimin closer to the stage. They end up jumping and dancing behind Taehyung as he sings his heart out.

Yoongi grabs a mic and joins Taehyung during the chorus.

Namjoon and Jimin clap and holler as the two give an energetic performance. Taehyung is dancing so hard while Yoongi sings, that his wig looks dangerously close to flying off.

Jimin bends over laughing.

Jin and Jungkook join Namjoon and Jimin in dancing behind Yoongi and Taehyung.

Jungkook is smiling so endearingly at Jimin as he slows down to catch his breath towards the end of the song. Jimin feels his cheeks warm with a blood-rush.

He turns around to escape to the bar, missing the flash of hurt on Jungkook’s face. Jin quickly takes over, grabbing Jungkook and pulling him towards the chest of props and handing him a pair of comedically large sunglasses and a bowler hat.

Jungkook laughs, indulging his hyung by putting on the accessories.

They take a break after two more songs to place orders for appetizers and other food platters to share.

Yoongi pulls Jimin onto the stage for a duet, and Namjoon, who’s holding the song selector, selects a sweet ballad called Serendipity for them.

Jin has his eyes trained on Jungkook, who stares at Yoongi and Jimin singing facing each other for a few seconds, before retreating to the bar. Jin watches worriedly as Jungkook throws back a shot and calls for another.

“Would you sing for me, my love?” Namjoon asks, back hugging Jin.

Jin giggles, placing his hands over Namjoon’s around his waist. “For you, anything.”

Jin decides to sing Moon for his fiancé. He has his back to the screen and faces the sofas where Namjoon is sitting. There’s a T.V. screen above the sofa that shows the lyrics if Jin needed them. As he sings, he knows his ears were probably red from being under Namjoon’s gaze for so long. Having Namjoon watch him like he’s the only person that exists in the space, still gave Jin butterflies.

The food arrives just as Jin finishes his song. While everyone is distracted by the food, Namjoon approaches Jin intertwining their hands.

“Thank you, sweetheart. Your voice is absolutely beautiful,” Namjoon murmurs, leaning in to leave a chaste kiss against Jin’s lips.

Jin giggles, diving in again to peck Namjoon, “Thank you.”

Yoongi and Taehyung bring over six flutes of champagnes to the table filled with dishes, calling Namjoon and Jin over. 

Yoongi holds up his flute, “To Jungkook and Tae!”

They all raise their glasses as well, letting the glass clink in the center as they meet the rest.

“And to Namjoon and Jin,” Taehyung toasts, after they’ve all taken a sip, “May you make each other happy for the rest of your lives!”

Jin smiles into the kiss as Namjoon captures his lips with his own again.

They take a break to help clear out all the food, an easy enough task for the six of them working together.

“Hyung, you have to rap for us!” Taehyung begs passing the selection device to Namjoon.

“Oh yes, babe please,” Jin bats his eyelashes for extra effect. Namjoon scratches his neck shyly.

“You rap?” Yoongi asks, eyes sparkling with interest.

“A little,” Namjoon admits humbly.

“Yoongi hyung is pretty good too,” Jungkook adds in, he’s still working on finishing off the last of the fried octopus.

“Oh, I wish Hoseok hyung was here. He’s a really good rapper,” Jimin pitches in.

“Who’s Hoseok hyung?” Yoongi asks.

“Well to start, he’s not your hyung. He’s the same age as Namjoon hyung.”

“Jimin saved his life when we were at the beach house,” Jungkook offers.

Yoongi raises a brow.

“I didn’t save his–”

“It would’ve been so cool if all three of you could’ve rapped together then,” Taehyung gushes.

“Would you like to do a song with me?” Namjoon asks politely.

Yoongi smirks, “Depends. Which song?”

Namjoon glances down at his device, eyes landing on a track he knew Taehyung would enjoy.

“CYPHER PART 3! KILLER!” Taehyung screams over the starting notes of the track.

Namjoon takes the first part. His rapping voice is husky, confident, sexy. Jimin glances over to see Jin watching his partner intensely.

Jimin hides a smile. He gets it. Watching Namjoon perform is an experience. Yoongi is vibing to the beat besides Namjoon, am impressed smirk on his face. He joins Namjoon for the doubling parts, echoing the ends of the lines.

Jimin shivers at Yoongi’s voice laced under Namjoon’s. Whereas Namjoon’s voice is husky, Yoongi’s is deliciously raspy. Just a taste of it is already making Jimin’s head spin. Although, that could very well be due to the alcohol Jimin had been steadily consuming throughout the night.

They all scream the lyrics as the chorus hits, hopping and dancing as the spotlights sends strobe light and lasers flashing through the room.

Taehyung runs to grab the mic and takes over the second verse. Jimin laughs as his friend tries to keep up. His friend might have the most beautiful and soulful singing voice, but his rapping still needed a little more practice. However, that didn’t stop him from having fun, and that was one of Jimin’s favourite things about him.

Jimin joins him on the stage, dancing with Taehyung, as he raps passionately.

The chorus comes around again and they all join in.

Then finally it’s Yoongi’s turn who had claimed the last verse.

The man in question comes behind Jimin, wrapping an arm around Jimin’s neck and hugging him close. Yoongi is pressed against Jimin from the back. He hooks his face over Jimin’s right shoulder, rapping right beside Jimin’s ear.

The others are glancing at the two of them discretely, except Jungkook. He’s watching with fire dancing in his eyes. He raises a brow in challenge, as if how Jimin would react would give him all the answers he needed. Jimin clenches his jaw.

He realizes his body is tensed catatonically. Jimin releases a shaky breath, closing his eyes, willing his body to relax into the touch. He hums, letting the music take control of his body. Jimin sways his hips to the beat. Yoongi is holding him securely from the top, but Jimin let’s his lower body go, enjoying the music, dancing against Yoongi.

The song comes to an end, leaving a charged silence.

Jimin can feel Yoongi breathing heavy in his ear. Jimin touches the arm around him, and Yoongi let’s go.

Jimin opens his eyes, seeing varying reactions from Namjoon, Jin, and Taehyung. He tilts his head slightly to see Jungkook by the bar through his peripheral vision.

“How was that?” Yoongi’s voice sounds hoarse and a little strained.

Jimin turns to see his cheeks flushed (probably from the alcohol), and his pupils blown wide.

“Amazing. You’re really good at rapping. Amazing at rapping. You’re amazing.”

Yoongi unleashes his gummy smile, and Jimin relaxes internally at having said the right thing.  He was still a little shaken though.

Another song starts up and they all look around to see Jungkook putting down the selection device.

They let him take the stage. Everyone settles down on the sofas as Jungkook grabs a mic stand and drags it onto the stage, back to the screen.

He plops his mic into the stand. He smiles softly at Taehyung as the lights turn blue.

We were only 16

You were on my arm

Then you moved to the city

And we drifted apart

Never thought I would see you

Now we're sitting in the dark

I won't fight this feeling, no

Jimin stifles his gasp. He suddenly finds himself fixated as Jungkook’s gaze switches to him.

I don't wanna lie no more

I don't wanna hide no more

What I found in you, is so real

I don't wanna hide no more

I don't wanna lie no more

Now that I found you

Jimin feels it. The emotions Jungkook was pouring into the lyrics. Trying so desperately to scream it to the world.

Imma let you get the best of me

Imma let you get the best of me

A tear slips down Jimin’s cheek.

Jin places a hand on Jimin’s thigh, grounding him again. Jin shifts forward, successfully blocking Jimin from the others, giving him time to compose himself.

Everyone applauds as Jungkook sings the last note. Taehyung almost slips on his way to hug Jungkook, but Jungkook catches him, steadying him with his hands on Taehyung’s waist.

It was too stuffy in the room. Jimin couldn’t breathe. He had to get out. While the others get caught up in selecting another song, Jimin slips out.

Jin who had been worriedly keeping an eye on both Jimin and Jungkook the entire night, doesn’t miss Jimin sneaking out quietly.

Jin sighs. He stops Namjoon who was passing by, “I’m going after Jimin.” Namjoon glances towards the door. He nods.

“Jimin.”

Jimin startles where he’s sitting on a bench a little bit away from Bulletproof, on a much more secluded street.

“It’s dangerous to wander off by yourself so late at night,” Jin chides, settling down on the bench beside Jimin.

Jimin sniffles.

“Are you...holding on?”

“...barely.”

Jin rubs Jimin’s back in what he hopes is a soothing gesture.

Jimin breathes in laboriously, “I had my resolve. I was doing okay. It would’ve all been so much easier if I had never gotten a taste of what it would be like to be his. To have him look at me like he did. So now, pretending is that much harder because all I want is for him to look at me like that again. I want to be the one taking pictures with him. To hold his hand. To be able to touch him. To be able to call him mine. And I hate myself. Because these thoughts are wrong. Everything is wrong, and ten times harder.”

“Oh Jimin.”

Jimin turns in Jin’s hold, hugging the elder. “I’m so scared, hyung. I’m so scared I’m going to mess up. Because all that goes through my mind is Jeon Jungkook. No matter how many times I push it down. No matter how hard I try.”

“He’s getting married to Taehyung in a week.” Jin knows it’s cruel. He doesn’t know if it’s too late to encourage Jimin to confess.

But then again Jungkook hasn’t married Taehyung yet. It couldn’t be too late, right?

Jimin stills in his arms. He straightens up out of Jin’s hold, leans back, looking up at the stars. Jin sees the moment his face hardens. Then there’s that practiced smile back on his face.

“You’re right, hyung.”

“Jim–”

“I’ve been too easy on myself. I let my emotions get away from me. I can’t continue like this. I need to stop this once in for all.”

“Jim–”

Jimin smiles, “I guess we should get back before everyone realizes we’re missing.”

“Jimin,” Jin tries softly.

“Let’s go.”

The next day, Jimin is one of the last to wake up, an unusual thing for him.

His stomach feels heavy at what he’s about to do.

He gets ready, and heads downstairs. The house is quiet, everyone must be outside again.

Jimin stops before the patio doors, taking a deep breath. There was no going back from this.

Everyone is there, but his mom is the first person he focuses on.

“Good morning–”

“Mom,” his voice comes out hoarse, he clears his throat and tries again, “Mom–I–I’m ready.”

She cocks her head, “Huh?”

What was he saying? Why was he dragging out his misery?

“I’ll marry Yoongi.”

Chapter Text

There are gasps and excited exclaims all around the table. Jungkook whips around in his chair, face going through a storm of emotions. 

Taehyung and his mom are leaping out of their chairs with excited yells, running over to hug him. 

“I’m so happy for you, my son,” his mom’s eyes are shiny with unshed tears, squeezing his arms. 

“Congratulations, Jiminie,” Taehyung squeezes his face against Jimin’s, all while enveloping him in a side hug. “Wait–” Taehyung pulls back, shaking with excitement, “We have to get married on the same day. Wouldn’t that be amazing? We have too!” 

Jimin blinks. “I would have to discuss it with Yoongi...” Taehyung is giving him the ultimate puppy dog eyes. Jimin laughs, “But that would be amazing!”

“I need to call, Sunye!” Mrs. Jeon gets up, giving Jimin a pat on the cheek and a warm smile, before leaving to call Mrs. Min.

“I’ll call, Yoongi hyung!” Taehyung disappears after her. 

His mother rushes over to Jungkook, “I just know Jimin said yes because of you, Jungkook-ah. You’re the one that got him ready to get married. You’re truly my most precious child. Come here,” Jungkook smiles weakly, as Jimin’s mother kisses him gently on the forehead. She wipes tears from her eyes with a laugh, “I should go have a talk with my new in-laws!” With that she scurries off into the house. 

“Jimin-ah,” his father and Mr. Jeon come up to Jimin, grabbing his attention. 

His father studies him, “Getting married to Yoongi–this is...what you want?” 

Jimin’s nods determinedly. His dad’s face softened and he claps his son’s shoulder, “Good. You’ve become a man.” 

“Have you talked to Yoongi, already?” Mr. Jeon asks. 

Jimin nods, “I called him before coming down, but we’re also meeting up. I thought it would be good to talk about it in person as well.” 

“You’re right. It’s good to do these things in person. Do you have a ring?” 

The blood drains from Jimin’s face, “Oh–no–I guess I need to stop by a jewelry store beforehand.” 

“Or we could schedule an engagement party and give you some more time to choose a nice ring,” Mr. Jeon suggests, “It’s a little short notice, but I’m sure your mother and mother-in-law would appreciate having a ceremony.” 

Jimin hums thoughtfully, “I guess I’ll discuss that with Yoongi as well.” 

His father scratches his chin, “Taehyung wants to have the weddings together, and that boy can make anything happen if he sets his mind to it. We should probably start working out the logistics.” 

Mr. Jeon nods, “Having both of them together would make things a lot easier though.” Both of them head inside, discussing the plans.

“That’s true. Easier on my wallet as well.” They laugh, as they disappear behind the patio doors. 

Jimin risks a glance at Jungkook who’s still seated at the outdoor table. His fist is turning white around the fork in his hand. 

Jungkook turns away as Jimin looks at him, but not before he sees the younger’s wavering eyes. The metal utensil falls to the table with a dissonant clang. 

Jungkook gets up with a bright smile that doesn’t reach his eyes. 

“Congratulations, hyung,” he holds out a hand to Jimin. 

“Thank you,” Jimin shakes the outstretched hand.

“Namjoon hyung and Jin hyung will be upset when they find out they were the last ones you told.” 

Jimin chuckles hollowly. Jungkook has a point. Maybe he should’ve waited until they had returned from the hotel. Namjoon and Jin hadn’t come back with the rest of them after the karaoke bar. Instead Namjoon had booked a hotel room for the two of them. Namjoon had reassured Jimin that it was to celebrate their engagement. Yet, Jimin suspects part of the reason was to cheer Jin up. He was glad they had decided to get away. They deserved a break. 

Jimin pretended he didn’t see the pitiful looks when they looked at him, but he did see them, and he knows this whole situation was stressful for them as well. Knowing the truth was an unfair burden. 

Jimin hates being burdensome, but he can’t imagine not having anyone to confide in, especially not when he couldn’t talk to Taehyung about any of it. So yes, he’s grateful they were able to take some time away. Knowing that Jimin has agreed to marry Yoongi would likely send Jin into a fit, and Jimin didn’t mind delaying that for as long as possible either. 

“I’ll think of something to make it up to them,” Jimin muses, “Maybe a really nice wedding present?” 

Jungkook smiles, “Maybe.” 

Jimin sobers out of the faux pleasantness that he and Jungkook had somehow established. He finds himself wringing out his hands, the rest of him paralyzed under Jungkook’s stare as the taller studies him. 

Jungkook shakes his head ironically, “Your mom’s right. You did say yes because of me.” 

They both know he’s right, but the thought makes Jimin feel small, highlighting his cowardice in his own eyes. 

“We’re going to get married on the same day,” Jungkook says softly, “To two different people...” 

Jimin looks away, feeling his eyes sting. 

“Yoongi hyung will keep you happy,” Jungkook let’s his smile slip. Taking in a shaking breath. He exhales a humourless laugh, “After all, who can make you happier than him? Who can love you more than he does?” 

“Jimin!” Taehyung calls, coming back. He slings an arm around Jimin, but quickly sobers at the sight of Jimin rubbing away the tears in his eyes. 

“Hey, Mr. America,” Taehyung turns to Jungkook with a frown, “Why are you making my friend cry–” He trails off seeing Jungkook wipe away his own tears with a laugh. “You too?” 

“How come I don’t have any happy tears?”  Taehyung pokes at his own eye, “Why don’t I feel the urge to cry at moments like these? ...Not fair.”

Jimin smiles fondly, grabbing hold of Taehyung’s finger before he pokes his eye again and hurts himself. He pulls him into a hug, “Taetae.” 

Taehyung giggles, wrapping his arms around his friend, squeezing tight, “Jiminie.” 

Jimin sees a stricken Jungkook turn away over Taehyung’s shoulder, heading down the steps of the porch instead of going inside.

Jimin leads Yoongi to the first secluded part of the park he finds. It’s a little clearing off of the path with a stone bench, overlooking a small lake. It’s a beautiful day, as is normal for California. The sun was high in the sky making the water sparkle. Yoongi is bathed in a warm glow.

“Min Yoongi,” Jimin says softly grabbing ahold of one of his hands, belatedly remembering and stumbling to get down on one knee. Yoongi is watching him in amusement, making Jimin crack a smile. 

Jimin clears his throat, “Will you marry me?” 

“No ring?” Yoongi teases, lips settling into a smirk. 

Jimin feels his cheeks burn, “Sorry I don’t–I promise I’ll get you one–dad thought maybe we could do an engagement party but I mean–I was ready to propose.” 

Jimin looks away. He sounds like a madman. 

Great. Just great. He had ruined it. He should’ve bought a ring. What was he thinking?  

“No wait,” Yoongi squats down, “I’m sorry. I’m just teasing. You know me.”

“Still…I’m really sorry. You deserve a proper ring, and a proper proposal, and I–”

“Jimin stop.” Yoongi tilts his chin up with his other hand, forcing Jimin to look at him, “It’s okay. And besides, didn’t you say something about an engagement party? I can wait until then.” 

“Are you sure?” Jimin asks hesitantly. 

Yoongi nods. “But Jimin,” Yoongi pulls him up to his feet. He adjusts their grip so he’s holding Jimin’s hand in both of his, “Are you sure? Is this–you really want to get married? To me?” 

“If you want to, too.” Jimin says softly. He doesn’t know a better way to answer Yoongi without lying. 

Yoongi smiles, “Then yes, Mr. Park Jimin, I will marry you.” 

If Jungkook thought planning for a wedding was chaotic, planning two was even more so. 

He had been up at the crack of dawn to help cook breakfast, and as soon as he had finished eating he was out the door with a list of errands. He had spent the majority of the morning driving from vendor to vendor, all the while his phone was ringing with people piling on additional tasks to his to-do list. 

Taehyung had finally called near lunchtime to ask to grab a meal together and Jungkook had gratefully agreed. 

Taehyung waves excitedly from across the road as he spots Jungkook leaving the parkade. Jungkook waves back. Taehyung points to his newly dawned black hair. Jungkook grins, giving him a thumbs up. It looked good on him. 

Taehyung turns to say something to the man beside him and Jungkook does a double take when he realizes it was Jimin. 

Blond. Jimin was blond. Jungkook marvels at how natural the colour looks on him, as if Jimin had been born with those pale gold locks. 

Jungkook finds himself mirroring the smile that lights up Jimin’s face, turning his eyes into crescent moons with whatever Taehyung had said. 

The smile slips off of Jungkook’s face and his heart stops as he sees the car speeding down the road just as the two are about to cross the road. 

Maybe it was the adrenaline, but time seems to slow down. Jimin steps off of the sidewalk and onto the road first. 

“JIMIN!” Jungkook screams in warning, watching in horror. Helplessly stuck on the other side of the road. 

However, the scream is enough to startle Jimin into jumping back, dragging Taehyung with him out of the way as the car drives past, blaring it’s horn.

Jungkook meets Jimin’s panicked gaze. 

They were okay. They were safe. Haphazardly checking to make sure there were no more cars coming, Jungkook crosses the road. 

“Are you okay?” Jungkook asks them both, grabbing onto Jimin’s elbow, grazing his eyes over his body to ensure the other wasn’t hurt. He couldn’t bring himself to let Jimin’s elbow go, needing to hold onto him to reassure his frantic heart that he was safe. His eyes meet Taehyung’s in question. 

“Yeah,” Taehyung says, looking lost. Jungkook smiles weakly. 

He turns to Jimin, who looks so small in the moment. Jimin’s eyes are wavering as they meet his. Jimin nods, his smile not quite reaching his eyes. 

The air feels heavy. Jungkook doesn’t know what the right thing to say is so he ushers Jimin and Taehyung across the now empty road. 

The cafe they had been planning to visit was down the block. 

Taehyung stirs his latte absentmindedly. They’re seated at a small circular, outdoor table at the cafe having cleared their meal with the remnants of the heaviness of the earlier events refusing to dissipate. 

“Jungkook?” Taehyung asks before he even realizes he’s speaking. 

Jungkook hums, putting his ice coffee down. Jungkook and Jimin both look at him. 

“Back there...” Taehyung clears his throat, mulling over what he wants to say and how to say it. Sometimes it seems especially hard to translate his racing thoughts into words and he finds himself grasping at words that could work. He’s gotten words wrong before, and sometimes when he starts thinking about it, the process gets even more difficult as the pressure builds. 

Jungkook and Jimin watch him patiently which allows Taehyung to take a pause and compose himself. He could feel that no one was in the mood to joke around, and neither would poke fun if he did mess up. The haze clears a little and he thinks he might’ve found what he wanted say. 

Taehyung sets his spoon down, “Back there, say you were with us.” 

Jungkook nods. 

“Say you were with us and you could only pull one of us out of the way, who would you choose?” 

Jungkook raises a brow. Jimin frowns. 

“What kind of question is that Taehyung?” Jimin asks angrily. 

Before Taehyung can reply, Jungkook answers, “One is my love, and the other is my friend... If I was with you, and between the three of us I could only save two, I’d save you both and jump in front of the car myself.” 

“Jungkook,” Jimin exclaims, clearly fuming now. 

“That’s cheating,” Taehyung teases. 

Jungkook shrugs easily. 

“Well, if we were in that position, I’d want you to sacrifice your love,” Taehyung reaches out to squeeze Jimin’s hand, “And save your friend, instead.” 

Jimin pulls his hand out of Taehyung’s, getting up from their table. “What is the matter with both of you? Why are you speaking nonsense?” Jimin grabs his bag and leaves. 

“Jimin, wait!” Taehyung calls after his angry friend, getting up to follow him. He hadn’t expected Jimin to react so strongly. Maybe he had chosen the wrong words after all.... 

Back at the table, Jungkook sits alone, staring at his drink, “That’s what I’m doing, hyung. I’m sacrificing my love for my friend.” 

Yoongi and Jimin are at LAX airport waiting for a special guest. 

“And you’re sure, that rushing all of this is okay with you? I mean you know me, I’d be just as content with a small little ceremony, but is this what you want?” 

Jimin smiles. Yoongi is so considerate. “Yes. I’m happy. Plus, Taehyung is right. Getting married together is special in its own way.” 

Yoongi shrugs, “Okay, if you’re sure.” 

“Oh,” Yoongi perks up after a moment, “If you want, we could have a grander reception, maybe at a later time. It could be special. Celebrating just us. Maybe even have it back in Korea to give you a chance to invite more guests?” 

The idea does fill Jimin with a giddy feeling, not because he needed all that to be happy. Like Yoongi, he would be fine with a smaller ceremony, but the fact that Yoongi wouldn’t mind all the fuss to celebrate them because he wants to make him happy… Jimin smiles, “That could be really cool. You’d be okay with going through all that extra effort?” 

“If you’d like that, then yes.” 

Jimin doesn’t get a chance to reply. Someone is calling his name. 

Hoseok is coming down the Arrivals Terminal, waving. 

“Hyung!” Jimin calls, running forward to meet Hoseok halfway. Hoseok holds out his arms, and Jimin runs into them with a hug that nearly topples them both over. 

Hoseok laughs, “Well someone is excited!” 

Jimin smiles, pulling away. 

Yoongi clears his throat, catching Hoseok’s attention. 

Jimin studies Hoseok’s face as he takes in his fiancé, but Hoseok‘s expressions are masked in a polite happiness. 

“Nice to meet you, I’m Min Yoongi,” Yoongi holds out his hand which Hoseok shakes firmly. 

“Likewise, I’m Hoseok.” 

Yoongi smiles shyly, “Thank you for coming so last minute. We really appreciate it.” 

“Wouldn’t miss this day for the world,” Hoseok squeezes Jimin. 

Jimin giggles. He felt so bad inviting Hoseok, knowing he’d likely have to move a lot of stuff around trying to make it work, but he couldn’t imagine getting married without him there to help him celebrate. 

Yoongi takes Hoseok’s suitcase, “Let’s get you settled into the hotel.”

As Yoongi walks out of earshot, Hoseok turns to whisper to Jimin, “So that’s your fiancé?” 

Jimin nods mutely. 

Hoseok studies him, before breaking out in a bright smile, “He’s cute. Nice butt. Great choice.” 

Jimin laughs, shaking his head, “Let’s go.” 

Jimin and Yoongi’s engagement party was a grander affair than Jimin had anticipated or even thought possible in the limited time they had amongst everything else. 

Yet surprisingly Yoongi took charge to ensure that they were able to have a proper party to celebrate the occasion. Their last minute booking of the banquet hall would not have been possible if Yoongi did not have connections with an owner of multiple event venues. Yoongi had worked with her in the past to create her new home, and had impressed her with his skills. 

As a result, Yoongi was able to call in a favour and book an absolutely gorgeous venue connected to a conservatory. 

Jimin actually hadn’t seen the venue before the event itself. That’s why when he first set step outside the car he was left breathless. 

The gardens surrounding the conservatory were beautifully maintained, blooming in tens of different species. However, the true sight was glass structure twinkling with lights. 

“Like it?” 

Jimin smiled as Yoongi came around the car, holding his elbow out. 

“It’s perfect,” Jimin weaved his arm through Yoongi’s, placing his hand on the other’s forearm. 

Yoongi started leading them down the path. He was facing away, but Jimin could see the corners of his mouth twitching, trying not to smile. 

The sound of party goers is suddenly audible as Yoongi opens the doors. 

“Oh Yoongi,” Jimin whispers, “It’s so beautiful.” 

The scent of the flowers made Jimin want to breathe in deeply and not let go. The sound of running water from the ceramic statue fountain in the center was adding a peaceful ambiance. There were fairy lights strung up bordering the metal beams of the ceiling. The sunset was turning the sky into pink and orange hues. Everything looked like it was out of a painting. 

Jimin turned to Yoongi only to find him already studying him. Jimin ducked his head until the blood rushing to his face calmed down. 

Yoongi chuckled. 

Jimin offered him a sheepish smile. “Thank you,” Jimin said softly, “I love it.” 

Their presence had been noted, and it seemed the rest of the evening was filled with making rounds greeting guests. 

The last of the guests trickle out after congratulating the new couple.  

Their friends had stayed behind to help with the majority of the take down. Since the venue was booked through a friend, they didn’t have a deadline by which they had to be out of it, however, there was a time crunch on their own end due to the wedding preparations. They needed to leave for the hotel tomorrow to stay on schedule which meant they needed to finish cleaning up at the venue tonight. 

“You two, come sit down and take a break for a bit,” Jin prompts, waving them over, “We still have time.” 

Yoongi leads Jimin over to join the others at their table, a  silver band glistening on his ring finger. 

Namjoon and Hoseok had nabbed the leftovers from the caterers before they had left. There was quite a spread laid out, and although Jimin had already ate earlier, he was starting to get hungry again at the sight of everything. 

“Let’s play spin the bottle!” Taehyung suggests setting an empty champagne bottle on its side in the middle of the table.

There are hollers from Jin and Hoseok. 

“I’ve never played,” Namjoon comments thoughtfully. 

“I don’t think I’ve ever played either,” Yoongi adds. 

“Me neither,” Jungkook muses. 

Turns out none of them had ever played, so everyone enthusiastically agrees.

Taehyung giggles, spinning the bottle in the center. 

The bottle stops in front of Jimin, “Aw man, I already know everything about Jimin. You should do a dare instead.” 

“Hey—you can’t just pick for me!” Jimin protests. 

Taehyung taps his chin thoughtfully, Jimin’s protests going into one ear, and out the other, “Hmm I dare you to give me your shirt.” 

Jimin’s eyes widen, “You’re crazy.” 

Taehyung sticks his hand out, “Hand it over Park!” 

“No!” 

“You can’t say no! You agreed to play,” Taehyung whines petulantly. 

“Oh my god, I’m not drunk enough for this,” Jimin groans, leaning back in his chair. 

“I can fix that!” Taehyung begins pouring him a shot as the others laugh. He places the shot glass in front of Jimin. 

Jimin stares at the glass, “Ah fuck it.” 

Jin howls, slapping the table, and the others cheer as Jimin downs the contents. 

He unbuttons his black dress shirt, rolling it up, and throwing it directly into Taehyung’s face. 

Taehyung laughs, taking the shirt off of his head and winking at him. 

There’s whistling and cheers around the table. 

Yoongi is chuckling as he slips out of his suit jacket, handing it to Jimin. 

“Thank you,” Jimin says pointedly as Taehyung is booing in the back. Jimin puts on the the jacket that fits surprisingly well, buttoning it up. 

“Just wait, I’ll get that jacket too,” Taehyung threatens. 

Jimin laughs, spinning the bottle. It lands on Hoseok. 

“Truth!” Hoseok exclaims before Jimin could give him an embarrassing dare. 

“I dare you to do a strip tease,” Jimin says without missing a beat. 

Hoseok blanches, “This game makes no sense!” 

They all laugh. 

Hoseok shuffles as they study him expectedly. “There’s no music!” 

Namjoon starts beatboxing. 

Jimin has tears in his eyes from laughing so hard. 

They all cheer Hoseok on, trying to encourage him to it. You could see the moment Hoseok’s defense crumbles and he gets up begrudgingly. 

Hoseok is a brilliant dancer. Jimin knew exactly what he was doing, and he knew Hoseok would do a good job. Jimin was not wrong. 

There’s plenty of wolf whistles as Hoseok dances. Hoseok matches the energy, sensually moving around the room, unbuttoning his shirt. He makes his way to Jimin, sliding his chair out bringing Jimin with it. 

“Since this is what you wanted, you little minx.” 

Jimin is laughing so hard his stomach hurts, as Hoseok proceed to undo the last of his buttons and throwing his shirt away. 

There’s a literal “Awoo Awoo!” that follows. Hoseok proceeds to give Jimin a lap dance. 

Or at least he starts to, but both Yoongi and Jungkook jump up, looping their arms through Hoseok’s armpit, lifting him off and dragging him away. 

Hoseok is laughing, throwing a playful glare over his shoulder to Jimin. 

Jimin sticks his tongue out. 

“Okay your turn, Hoseok-ah,” Jin urges excitedly, probably waiting for his turn to join the fun. 

“Also someone please start choosing Truth,” Namjoon adds nervously. 

“Taehyung! Give me my shirt back!” Hoseok had just noticed that his shirt was nowhere to be seen. 

Taehyung was giggling as he gets up darting away, Hoseok’s shirt clenched to his chest. Hoseok takes off after him. 

Jimin giggles, grabbing a shrimp from one of the platters. 

They come back a minute later with Hoseok fully clothed again and Taehyung looking pleased. 

The game’s shenanigans continue. The truths unfortunately have not been as merciful as Namjoon had hoped, with the red eared man having to admit why him and an equally sheepish looking Jin, went missing during the set up of the party earlier. 

Jin had also somehow lost a shoe at some point.  

“48! 49! 50!” There are cheers as Jungkook finishes the last push up, grabbing his shirt back from a gleeful Taehyung. 

He takes his seat, spinning the bottle. 

“Yoongi,” Jungkook begins as the neck of the bottle points to the elder, “How much do you love Jimin?” 

Yoongi cocks his head, glancing at Jimin before turning to Jungkook, “As much as you love Taehyung, just a bit more than that.” Yoongi winks at Jimin. Jimin rolls his eyes with a teasing huff. 

Jungkook laughs, “Okay, fair enough.” 

“Your turn to spin, Yoongi,” Hoseok calls, excited to continue. 

The bottle lands on—

“Jimin!” 

Jimin perks up, realizing the bottleneck is pointing at him. 

“Jimin?” Yoongi asks, monopolizing the opportunity immediately. Despite the lighthearted tone, his eyes were serious, “Why did you ask me to marry you?” 

Jimin looks across the table at Taehyung and Jungkook, and then Namjoon and Jin who were sitting on Taehyung’s other side “My best friends were getting married, and I realized that maybe I wanted someone too.” 

“I’ve never felt more single,” Hoseok slurs, Jin giggles patting the man’s shoulder. 

Jimin turns to face Yoongi, “You said we may work out, we may not, but you wanted to take the risk for the chance that we do. Me too. I want to too-for that chance. I want to take the risk for our future.” 

Yoongi looks away, his ears and neck blooming pink. 

It was because of Jimin’s request that they were rushing into marriage. The least Jimin can do was be a partner worthy of Yoongi’s love. Earlier when Yoongi had so boldly declared his love for Jimin, it had made Jimin’s heart flutter. How could it not? If Yoongi loved him, then Jimin could try for Yoongi, for himself, for them and their future. Until he one day organically fell for the elder for real, Jimin could try to fit the mold of a loving husband. 

His worries slipped to the back of his mind when a hand took hold of his underneath the table. Jimin blinked. Yoongi gave him a shy smile before looking away, ears and neck still pink, hand still holding Jimin’s. 

The game continues around them. 

Taehyung hollers as the bottle lands on him. He turns to Jungkook with an exaggerated wink, “Hey, Mr. America. This is your chance, you can ask me anything. Or make me do anything.” 

“Okay,” Jungkook plays with his glass, swishing the drink around, “If you wanted to confess anything to me, what would it be?” 

Taehyung giggles skittishly looking around the table, “Uh-I don’t have anything to confess…” 

Jungkook smiles, “Okay, then you got off easy.” 

He makes to spin the bottle again, but is stopped by Taehyung’s hand, “Wait.”

Taehyung removes his hand, clenching and unclenching it, “We’re about to start a life together, and I don’t want to start this new chapter lying to you. The truth is-the truth is I wasn’t the one who wrote back to you all those years. All those emails… they weren’t from me.”

Jimin almost gasps out loud. Catching ahold of himself before he drew attention. His eyes bore into Jungkook, at the edge of his seat, waiting to see how he would react. 

Jungkook takes Taehyung’s hand, holding it gently in both of his own, “Thank you for telling me.” 

“You’re not upset?” 

“How can I be, I promised to make you happy for the rest of our lives. I can’t do that if I’m upset with you.” 

Taehyung melts, shoulders relaxing with evident relief. Unbeknownst to Taehyung, he wasn’t the only one.

Taehyung laughed giddily, “Jungkook, you know who wrote you all those letters? Jimin!” 

Yoongi shifts his hold on Jimin’s hand, but doesn’t let go. Jimin hazards a look to his side, but Yoongi’s attention is on Jungkook not him. 

Jungkook raises a brow, “Well then, I guess I should be marrying Jimin then.” 

You could hear a pin drop in the silence that followed. 

And then… just when Jimin’s mind was blanking from the panic, Taehyung hesitantly laughs and Jungkook joins in. 

Hoseok and Jin laugh more naturally than the literal high pitched ha ha ha’s that Namjoon let’s out. 

It seems that Yoongi and Jimin were the only ones not laughing. 

Regardless, the moment passes and so does the tension that comes with it. 

“Okay I haven’t gotten a turn in forever so it’s my turn,” Jin says, spinning the bottle. 

Chapter Text

The resort that the four of them will be getting married in is breathtaking. 

It’s a grand white expansive hotel that opens onto a private sector of Laguna beach. 

Cliffs separate their little bay from the rest of the beach. 

They arrived around noon on the day of their rehearsal dinner. 

It had been a long drive to the resort, so everyone had been quick to check into their suites. 

Jimin peaks into the bathroom at the entrance of his room, as he wheels his carry-on behind him. He pauses by the closet, to take the two garment bags folded over his arm and hang them up. 

Jimin heaves his carry-on onto the table in his room, unzips it, pulling out shorts and a white tee to change into. He also grabs his toiletries, making quick work of freshening up and changing. 

Jimin rushes out of his room, wanting to escape to the beach before anyone could see him. 

He would rejoin others later when he had to, but right now he wanted to be alone. 

He should probably meet with the others to figure out if everything was set for tonight and tomorrow. 

Time was running out. 

Jimin walks down the beach to the edge of the private expanse and sinks to the ground. 

He buries his head into his knees, breathing heavily. 

Tears fall, some running down his legs, and others directly into the grains of sand.

The sights of every pained look that painted Jungkook’s face plague his mind. Sometimes they are replaced by the anguished expression of Taehyung, but then they return to Jungkook. 

His heart tugs as if wanting to rip out of his chest in an attempt to escape the pain.  

Another part of Jimin screams at him to snap out of it, to gather himself. He berates himself for his stupidity. Things were as they were and his breaking down wasn’t going to change anything. He knew he had to accept his fate. He did accept it. So then why were his body and mind not acting like it? 

He felt so helpless, drowning in his emotions. The tiny voice in his mind unable to stay afloat, even while paddling desperately against the waves of anguish. 

From a distance, Yoongi watches the hunched figure. The intangible force of his sadness so strong that it was inching its way to Yoongi, wrapping its tendrils around Yoongi’s frozen body, and squeezing tighter by the second. 

Yoongi gasps, stumbling out of his stupor. 

He turns around heading back to the hotel. 

He waves to Taehyung who’s making his way down to the beach. 

“Hey hyung, have you seen Jiminie?” Taehyung chirps. 

“No,” Yoongi clears his throat, “Maybe he’s in the hotel somewhere?” 

“Oh,” Taehyung hums turning around to fall in step with Yoongi heading back to the hotel, “Potentially. You excited for tonight?” 

“Yeah,” Yoongi says as neutrally as possible, “You?” 

“I’m so excited. I am, but I’m going to be honest I’m really worried about the speech. It’s embarrassing because it’s kind of mushy.” 

“It’ll be okay.” Yoongi cringes internally. The words sounded empty. 

Taehyung however is very charitable and nods, “You’re right. It doesn’t matter what anyone thinks. Only one person’s opinion matters.” 

Jungkook. 

Yoongi needed to talk to Jungkook. “I’m sorry Taehyung, but I need to talk to Jungkook about something. I’ll catch you later.” 

Yoongi knocks on Jungkook’s door. 

The younger opens the door with bloodshot eyes, and suddenly Yoongi had nothing he needed to say to him. Nothing he wanted to ask. He knew. He knew enough. 

Without a word, he walks away. 

There’s a knock on Yoongi’s door. He gives up on trying to get his cuffs buttoned and opens the door. 

It’s Jimin. He’s already dawned on his grey suit. A few buttons of his black dress shirt were undone. His signature scent from his favourite cologne welcomes Yoongi.  

“Can we talk?” Jimin asks softly. 

Yoongi opens the door more, stepping out of the way to let him in. 

Jimin takes a seat at the table, his right leg shaking nervously. 

“I need you to know everything. I need you to know before you decide if you want to go forward with everything.” 

Yoongi takes a seat at the edge of his bed facing Jimin. 

It takes him a few moments to start, but just as he had stated Jimin tells him everything. 

Jimin doesn’t look up after finishing, and Yoongi doesn’t have anything to say for the moment. 

They sit in silence, but before long there’s a loud knock grounding them again. 

“Yoongi, you ready son?” His mother calls through the door. 

He clears his voice, “Yes, mum. You and dad go ahead and go downstairs. I’ll meet you in the hall.”

“Okay, but be quick.”

Yoongi gets up walking to Jimin. He holds his arm out. 

Jimin meets his gaze, eyes questioning. 

“Could you please help me with this?” Yoongi asks, turning his wrist over. 

Jimin mutely buttons the right cuff, and then the left. 

He watches Yoongi put on his jacket and slip into his dress shoes. 

Pocketing his wallet, and scanning his room to see if there was anything else he needed, Yoongi turns to Jimin, “Let’s go.”

They walk into the hall side by side. 

They had elected one of the smaller event halls since their wedding would be a more intimate affair with only their families and a select few friends. 

The hotel had done a good job with the decor. They had decided to stick with the golden theme, with pretty abstract gold centrepieces and red rose arrangements adding a beautiful contrast.  

Yoongi leads Jimin to the front where Jungkook and Taehyung were already seated in matching black suits. Whereas Taehyung was going for an all-black look, Jungkook had worn a simple white shirt underneath. 

Yoongi pulls out a chair for Jimin beside Taehyung and takes a seat on Jimin’s other side. 

The dinner starts, and as he’s absentmindedly listening to the toasts, Yoongi can’t help but stare at Jimin through it all. 

He sees it now. The cheerfulness. He can see past it to understand Jimin was trying too hard, compensating for all that darkness he felt inside. Yoongi had seen it earlier, infected by it despite the distance between them. 

Yoongi wonders if he should be angry. It might’ve been justifiable if that is what he felt, but in all honesty, all he felt was sadness.

Looking around, he figures it’s his turn to give a toast. Taehyung stands, the conversations die off slowly. He pulls out a sheet of paper from his jacket pocket and unfolds it. He chuckles nervously as his eyes glance over the words. He glances at Jimin, but quickly changes his mind and decides it’s better to not look at anyone while doing this. 

“Jimin-ah,” he clears his throat and tries again. 

“Jimin, hi!” He winces inwardly, rethinking his decision to write the toast as a letter to Jimin. At the time he had thought it was creative, but now reading it in front of all their friends and family he wanted to die of embarrassment. “Writing you this sincere letter is making me cringe, but I am trying to go on. Please understand. 

Ever since we were young, we woke up together, put on our uniforms and attended the same school. We ate together, played together, and studied together. We spent nights talking till sunrise, and after 13 such years, you're now my dearest friend. I remember trying to decide what to do after high school. I thought it over and I thought of you. I thought of how you're there when I'm up or down. The only one who laughed and cried with me. I knew that no matter what I did after high school, I wanted you nearby and it felt good to look forward to that. To have something to move forward towards. Your presence gave me guidance when I was confused. And I'm glad that I was able to do university with you. Looking back on the time we spent, all of our good memories make me happy. 

And-” Taehyung clears his throat again, steeling his voice, “I'm sorry since I'm always on the receiving end. When I’m in the bathroom crying, you come cry with me. And you come to see me at dawn to laugh alongside me. You care about me and have me in your thoughts. You work hard for me and understand me. You listen to my concerns and like me though I'm lacking.” 

Taehyung braves a look up to see Jimin’s glassy eyes. He looks back down at the letter and can barely make out the words on the page through the tears that clouded his sight, “We’re here now…about to be married. Still together and by each other’s side, and I couldn’t be happier. Let's walk a road of happiness…Love you my friend.” 

Taehyung looks up when he feels a presence nearing and can barely make Jimin out before he’s being hugged. 

The mic somehow ends up in Jimin’s hand when they pull away. He turns to address the audience. 

“Some people might be under the wrong impression after that speech…” Jimin’s voice rings through the hall, “But the truth is I actually learn a lot from Taehyung. He makes me feel good and touches my heart often. In the little time, we have on this earth to experience life, this is all I could ever need. That’s why I’m so grateful to be able to call him my friend. So I wanted to say I’m grateful. I’m grateful to have him as my best friend.” 

Taehyung turns to bury his face into Jimin’s shoulder, crying into the suit fabric. Jimin hugs his friend tight, rubbing his back. 

After collecting themselves, they take their seats. 

There’s a screeching of a chair as Yoongi gets up. Jimin shifts to face him. 

Yoongi doesn’t go for the mic, but instead holds out a hand for Jimin who takes it instinctively. 

He leads Jimin around the tables, nodding to the DJ as they pass by the setup. 

A slow romantic melody fades in. 

They’re at the dance floor now, and Yoongi shifts his hold on Jimin so they can start swaying to the music. 

Jimin is hyperaware of the amused chitter-chatter, and people getting up to join them. 

He turns to face Yoongi who’s been studying him. Jimin can feel his heart beating hard in his chest, not sure what might happen. 

“I love you.” 

Jimin’s world stops.

Yoongi keeps leading them through the dance, “Whatever you want to happen, I’ll support you. If you want to go through with the wedding, know that I’ll do my best to make you happy, and perhaps eventually with some time, it’ll be enough.” 

Jimin slips out of Yoongi’s hold so he can wrap his arms around the older’s neck. He hides his face in the other’s neck so no one sees the tears running down his face. 

“I don’t deserve you,” he whispers. 

Yoongi’s grip tightens, “If you keep telling yourself that, you might lose out on something great. Let everything go, Jimin. Let yourself live your life how you want.” 

Jimin doesn’t leave Yoongi’s side the entire event. 

“Jimin hyung?” 

Jimin jumps, whirling around. Jungkook has his hands up, eyes twinkling with amusement. Although the words were spoken softly, they echoed clearly in the night’s silence. 

“Yes, Jungkook-ah?” Jimin asks breathlessly, still frazzled by the scare. 

“What are you doing up?” Jungkook asks randomly. Jimin could tell it was Jungkook’s way of stalling for time as he gathered his wits to bring up what he actually wanted to so Jimin would entertain him until he was ready. 

“I was feeling thirsty, so I was going to go buy some water.”

Jungkook nodded. Jimin continued down the hall with Jungkook trailing him. 

The ice and vending machines were the last door in the hallway. 

Before Jimin could open the door, Jungkook was reaching from behind him to grab the handle and pull it open. 

“Thank you,” Jimin ducked into the small room. 

The room had one vending machine with bottled drinks and an ice dispenser. 

Jimin selected the button for a Dasani water bottle. The amount he owed flashed on the screen. He inserted a five-dollar bill. 

The machine spits the bill back out. Jimin took it out, and tried feeding the bill in again. Yet again, the machine spits it back out. 

“Try the other way–here let me try.” 

Jimin holds out the bill for Jungkook to try. 

After trying every possible way–twice–Jungkook hands the bill back to Jimin dejectedly. “There’s that convenience store down the street? Did you want to go?” 

Jimin hums, “I can just drink the tap water. It’s okay.” 

“No, no. I’ll run down and grab it for you.” 

“No, I'll feel bad. It’s fine, I’ll survive.” 

“Okay you go back to your room, I’ll go grab some and drop it off.” 

“Jungkook.” 

“Hyung.” 

“It’s really okay,” Jimin says slowly, trying to make Jungkook believe him. 

“Okay okay fine.” Jungkook agrees, but there’s a glint in his eyes and Jimin knows he can’t trust the younger not to go. 

Jimin shakes his head, “Okay, fine. I’ll go.” 

“We’ll both go.” 

Jungkook opens the door for Jimin again. “Let’s take the stairs, that elevator takes forever to get here.” 

“We’re on the 14th floor,” Jimin whines. 

“I swear we were waiting for like 10 minutes this afternoon!” Jungkook persists. 

“Yeah probably ‘cause the afternoons are busier. Who’s using elevators at 2am?” 

“You,” Jungkook mutters petulantly. 

Jimin laughs. 

Jungkook’s eyes glitter, “Okay, wanna bet?” 

Jimin raises a brow. 

“You take the elevator, I’ll take the stairs. First to the lobby wins.” 

“Okay you’re on. Ready?” 

“From here?” Jungkook’s eyes widen. 

“Yeah, I’m feeling generous.” 

Jungkook smirks, “Set, go!” Jungkook pulls open the door to the stairwell violently, thundering down the steps. 

Jimin laughs, shaking his head. He walks down the hall to the elevator. He hums to himself thoughtfully, “…one, two, three, four, five.” Jimin presses the down button. 

Jimin starts fiddling with his wallet as he waits. As the second tick by Jimin starts to worry his lip. Maybe he shouldn’t have stalled this long. 

Jimin is panicking when he finally hears the whir of the machine get louder, and after a few bated breaths, the doors finally open. 

Jimin rushes inside, tapping the close doors button incessantly, “Come on, come on, come on!” 

It turns out, Jimin didn’t need to stress. It hadn’t even been kind of close. 

Jimin had done his best to contain the laughter as Jungkook burst through the stairwell into the silent lobby. It was the incredulous expression melting into defeat at seeing Jimin sitting at one of the lounge couches that made the chuckles spill over. 

Jungkook comes and drops beside Jimin on the couch, panting heavily. 

“You’re insane,” Jimin wheezes, wiping a tear from his eye, “Come on. I’ll buy you a drink.” 

Jimin sits down next to Jungkook outside of the convenience store, handing him a bottle of water and one of banana milk. 

Jungkook flushes, ducking his head, “Thanks.” 

Jimin hums, taking another swig of his own water bottle. 

They sit side by side in silence listening to the sounds of the ocean waves crashing against the shore. 

“Want to go for a walk?” Jungkook pipes up, pointing to the beach on the other side of the road. 

“Sure.”

They were at the public part of Laguna beach, but because of how late it was there weren’t many people out. 

The two walked to the shoreline and then started walking down the length of the beach. They walk in silence, simply existing in the quiet night. Not to say there wasn’t any noise. The waves were still crashing against the sand, there were hints of laughter every now and then from the conversations of the handful of people dispersed around the beach. 

Yet it was quiet. Quiet in the sense that they didn’t have to talk. Didn’t have to keep up with the whirlwind of their family and friends. They could just be. 

At some point, the distance behind them was greater than what was left of the beach ahead, and Jimin suggests they turn back. It was an early morning tomorrow. 

“We’re getting married tomorrow.” Jungkook finally says. 

Jimin nods. He stops when he notices Jungkook wasn’t beside him anymore. 

Jungkook sits down, staring at the ocean. 

“I always thought you had it easy, and that I was the one suffering alone, but having to watch you get ready to marry someone else...” Jungkook closes his eyes, grabbing fistfuls of sand, “Watching you be with someone else has been the hardest thing I’ve done. I was wrong. From the beginning, you’ve suffered so much more.” 

Jimin opens his mouth to protest but doesn’t get the chance at the realization that Jungkook is shaking. He sits down beside him, placing a gentle hand on Jungkook’s back. 

Jungkook whirls around, engulfing him in a bone-crushing hug. “I’m sorry for not understanding. I’m sorry for making things harder for you. I’m sorry for hurting you. I’m so sorry.” 

Jimin whimpers against the younger as the dam breaks, his tears soaking into Jungkook’s shirt. 

“People should be with the ones that make them happy...that’s what you said right? Then I don’t deserve you because I’m the one that’s made you sad for so long,” Jungkook hiccups through his tears. 

“No, Jungkook. You haven’t made me sad. You could never make me sad.” It was the truth, Jimin realizes. He wasn’t saying that just to make the other feel better. Nor was it really because he’s always been soft for the younger. 

Jimin knew it was the circumstances, uncontrollable events, unfortunate timing, things beyond their control that made him sad because it made him realize that no matter how hard he might have fallen for Jungkook, it wasn’t enough. It wasn’t meant to be. 

It was a reality Jimin needed to accept if he wished to move on from the hurt. 

Jungkook pulls away with a pained expression. 

“Maybe in another lifetime,” Jimin holds out his pinky finger. 

Jungkook holds up his pinky, eyes fiery behind the veil of tears, “Promise?” 

“Promise,” Jimin curls his pinky around Jungkook’s. 

Jimin is up at 6:00 am to start getting ready. 

This is it. He’s going to get married. 

He showers, and goes through his usual morning routine. Time blurs. He finishes styling his blond locks out of his face in a clean look. 

With a towel wrapped around his waist, he walks to the closet pulling out the second garment bag. He unzips it pulling the white suit out. 

He studies himself in the hall floor-length mirror as he buttons the black dress shirt up. He pulls his pants on, tucking the shirt in. Finally slipping into his suit jacket he hums in satisfaction. 

It’s getting close to 7:00 am when his mom and Taehyung invade his room with breakfast. 

The ceremony is starting at 7:30 ten minutes before sunrise on the beach.  

The three of them eat and chat nervously. 

Taehyung is quieter than usual, and although it could easily be nerves about the wedding, Jimin can’t help but ask, “You okay, Tae?” 

Taehyung smiles half-heartedly, “Yeah, I just miss gran, and…” 

Jimin holds his hand, using his thumb to rub soothing circles. 

Jimin’s mom comes to wrap an arm around Taehyung. 

“I was thinking about the deadline.” 

“Deadline?” Jimin’s mother asked. 

“Yeah I got a spot in the Designs Masters at SNU,” Taehyung explains sheepishly, “The deadline to put down a deposit is in an hour.” 

His mother gasps, “Oh, Taehyung! That’s amazing! I’m so proud of you!” 

Taehyung looks at her with glassy eyes, “I’m not going to put a deposit down.”

She frowns, “Is it a money thing? Because you know we’ll help with the expenses-“ 

“No no. I don’t think I want it anymore, but because the deadline is today it was just on my mind again. It’s not a big deal. I’ve already decided.”  

His mother opens her mouth to argue, but Jimin shakes his head, “He’s already thought about it, mom. It’s his decision.” 

“If you’re sure…” Jimin’s mom doesn’t seem like she wants to drop it, but she does. “Okay, boys, we need to start heading downstairs. Get some photos done before the ceremony.” 

“I’m actually going to take a few moments if it’s okay?” Taehyung asks. 

Jimin’s mom softens, “Of course, darling, but don’t take too long okay? We’ll meet you downstairs?” 

Taehyung nods. 

His mom gives Jimin a once over, tsking and shaking some invisible dust off of his pants. 

“Mom! I’m fine. It looks fine.” 

She narrows her eyes at him, about to turn away when her attention goes to his hand, “Jimin, I know you like that ring, but it would be hard for Yoongi to put the wedding band on your finger with it already occupied,” she chides, grabbing his hand. Before he could even think of reacting, his mother pulls the familiar weight off his ring finger. Jimin moves instinctively, accidentally hitting his mother’s hand with his own, knocking the ring out of her grasp. The metal band bounces a few times and rolls underneath the bed. 

“No, no, leave it!” Jimin’s mother clucks her tongue, holding him back from trying to retrieve it. “You’ll dirty your suit, Jimin-ah. I told you white would be a nuance. You never listen.” 

Jimin’s whines are ignored as his mother ushers him out the door. 

Taehyung winks, “I’ll find it. Don’t worry.” 

Taehyung chuckles as Jimin trips over his own feet as his mother essentially pushes him out of the room. 

He ducks down to take a look under the bed. The ring had rolled pretty far out of reach. 

Taehyung groans. 

“Where is that boy?” Jimin’s mum is staring the elevator down, foot tapping nervously. 

“Should I go look for him?” Jimin offers, equally worried. 

“No if anything I should go- oh Taehyung!” His mother cuts off as she spots him exiting the elevator. 

Taehyung has his head down. 

Jimin frowns. 

He doesn’t lift his head the entire way. As he approaches Jimin, he bear hugs him. Jimin caught off guard, and still unable to see his expression, hugs him back. 

“Okay boys, I’m going to go slip into my seat. You know the cue to come out.” 

Jimin nods.

When Taehyung pulls away, there are tears in his eyes. 

“Oh taetae,” Jimin whispers, gently holding his cheek. 

“I’m okay,” Taehyung swipes at his eyes, “Just feeling emotional.” 

Jimin hums understandingly. 

Taehyung holds Jimin’s hand, “You know you’re my soulmate right?” 

Jimin smiles.

“You might be getting married, but you’re my soulmate first and foremost.” 

“I know,” Jimin says softly, “I’ll always love you.” 

“I know,” Taehyung’s face is overcome with emotions, “I love you too–the most.” 

The muffled sounds of the music starts. That’s their cue. 

They get into positions in front of the door. One of the hotel staff is by the door, opening it for the two of them to walk through. 

They walk down the steps hand in hand to the aisle. 

The venue is structured on the beach. The aisle paved into the sand, and lined in bouquets of peonies, lilacs, and roses. The chairs have flowy white fabric tied into bows around the backs. The pièce de résistance though is the sky. A blend of pinks and oranges of dawn as the sun got ready to grace the horizon, it looked like the most beautiful painting. 

All their families and closest of friends are smiling. 

Yoongi and Jungkook stand at the end of the aisle. Both looking extremely handsome in their clean black suits. Jin stands at the alter in between the two. He would be officiating the marriage. The man of course looked really handsome in a silver suit tailored perfectly to his body. 

Jimin’s heart is pounding as he and Taehyung approach them. 

Taehyung stops at the edge of the end of the aisle. Jimin looks to him for a cue of what to do next. 

“Jimin,” Taehyung smiles, “I put down a deposit for the design degree.” 

“Taehyung- oh my god?” Jimin is so confused why they were talking about this now and here, but it didn’t change the fact that he was happy for his friend, “Congratulations!” 

“Thank you,” Taehyung nods earnestly, “I’m going to pursue my dreams. I’m going to do what makes me happy. So I want you to do what makes you happy now, too.” 

Taehyung lifts Jimin’s hand, turning it around to drop Jimin’s ring into his palm. The ring from Jungkook. The ring… with the engravings. 

Shit.

Taehyung steps back, away from the altar. Everyone watches in silence. 

“Taehyung?” Jimin frowns in confusion. 

“I’m so sorry. I should’ve known. I’m your best friend. I should’ve seen it earlier. I was blind.” 

Taehyung turns to Jungkook, “Remember when I asked you if you’d chose your love or your friendship. I didn’t realize I was such a close friend to you that you’d sacrifice your love for my friendship-“ Taehyung is teary eyed. Jimin steps forward to grab his forearm, “I don’t know how I didn’t see it. I was blind. How did I miss that your heart beats for Jimin. I don’t know how I didn’t see that you love Jimin, not me.” 

“Taehyung?” Jimin’s eyes are burning, “What…?” 

“I was living in a fantasy, Jimin-ah,” Taehyung clutches Jimin’s hands, “I was so hurt and alone I created a fantasy to keep me safe, but I’m not alone Jimin-ah, I’m not!” Taehyung is crying now. 

Jimin pulls Taehyung into a hug, “Of course you’re not alone, Tae.” 

“I have two people who love me so much,” Taehyung releases Jimin from the hug, squeezing his cheeks, “I’ve always said people should be with who makes them happy. I’m not that person. I wasn’t that person for either of you for awhile now. And I’m sorry for that.” 

Jimin shakes his head frowning, “No Tae-“ 

“No no please,” Taehyung takes a deep breath, “You love each other. True love. It’s not sacrifice. Not a compromise. Not coerced. And that’s all that matters.” 

Jungkook steps forward. 

“Jungkook,” Taehyung starts with a watery smile, “I’m so lucky to have a friend like you. You cared for me more than I could’ve ever imagined. I can’t thank you enough.” 

Jungkook hugs Taehyung, “I’m sorry.” 

“No no no don’t be,” Taehyung wipes his eyes, pushing the younger away, “Now someone get married already, we’re missing the sunrise.” 

There are a few chuckles from their friends and family. 

Jimin hazards a look at their audience. There’s a lot of shock in many faces. He catches his mother’s eyes, eyes that soften and nod at him as if to say it’s all going to be okay. 

“Jimin-ah.” 

Jimin turns to face Yoongi. Yoongi leans over to place a forehead kiss onto Jimin’s forehead. Jimin closes his eyes. 

Yoongi looks at him with kindness, “Be happy.” 

“Yoongi,” Jimin grabs his hand, he needs to say so much, apologies, gratitude, regrets, but before he can utter a single word Yoongi shushes him. 

“It doesn’t have to be complicated, Jimin-ah. You are lucky. There are so many people who love you, but you have to love yourself enough to accept it all.” Yoongi flick’s Jimin on the nose, “Plus, I’m really competitive. I wanna be a really good friend too.” 

Jimin smiles. Yoongi steps off of the altar and goes to stand beside Taehyung. 

Jimin faces Jungkook. His eyes are wavering. Unsure and hesitant whether this was really happening. He looked as scared as Jimin felt. 

“I love you,” Jimin whispers.

Jungkook closes the gap between them. He wraps his arm around Jimin, pulling him into a kiss. Jimin melts into him. 

They pull apart at the sound of cheers. 

Jimin’s cheeks are burning. 

Jungkook holds out his hand, “Will you marry me?” 

Jimin laughs, wiping the tears from his eyes, “Yes.” 

“YES!” 

Jimin gives Jin a startled look who looks sheepish at the outburst. 

Jungkook leads Jimin to the alter. They stand in front of Jin, holding hands. 

Jin gives both of them a small smile before clearing his voice. “Welcome everyone. You may now take your seats.” 

Jimin is unable to take his eyes off Jungkook. His hands are warm in the other’s hold. Jungkook’s eyes are sparkling with moisture. Jungkook’s smile hasn’t left his face. 

“Now the grooms will share some words.” Jin nods to Jungkook. 

“Jimin, I love you so much,” Jungkook says softly, “I’ve loved you since I can remember whether I knew it consciously or not. I promise that I’ll spend the rest of our lives loving you, making it up to you, and making you feel loved in every way possible. I’m so lucky. Sorry I’m rambling now.” 

Jimin laughs. His face feels permanently on fire listening to Jungkook’s promises. 

It’s his turn and he’s freaking out. There’s so much he wants to say that words don’t feel enough. Still he wants to honour Jungkook with at least a few, “Jungkook. I’m getting what I dreamt of. Now I hope I can give you the future you dreamed of. I hope to be that someone you envisioned spending the rest of your life with. I promise to love you if you’ll let me, and to always be by your side. The universe has moved for us, and I will not let this second chance go to waste.”  

Jungkook pulls him into himself, swinging him around and dipping him as he goes in for a kiss. 

Behind them, a flustered Jin yelps not expecting that, “Um I pronounce you both a married couple…?” 

There are cheers and hoots, as Jimin smiles against Jungkook’s lips.