Chapter Text
There are many times in Yoongi’s life where he believes Namjoon makes good decisions. Many times when he follows his best friend’s advice whether it might not be the best or not. Many times Yoongi finds himself going to Namjoon because he can’t figure out the simplest things.
Between the two of them, Namjoon definitely seemed like he had a lot more experience in life. And maybe he did. Yoongi is the type of person who works more than he sleeps. Spends little time alone. When he isn’t working he’s either with Namjoon or catching up on sleep because his body prefers to work than relax.
It’s caused him to miss out on a lot of things. He’s missed birthdays, the celebration for when Namjoon bought his first house, parties when any of their friends got promotions or new jobs. He even missed the bachelor party for Namjoon, Hoseok and Taehyung. He never forgave himself for that day.
Right now, however, he isn’t sure if Namjoon is making the right decision.
They’re sitting on Yoongi’s dark blue couch, grey blankets draped over to the two of them as they share alcohol. There’s different varieties lined up on the coffee table. A small six-pack of beer that only has two left, cans of Coke with Jack beside it, and Vodka with Cranberry Juice. Yoongi’s favourite.
It’s not often that the two of them get the chance to drink like this. It’s not often that Yoongi has a free night to be doing anything and inside, his body is screaming at him that he needs to go to sleep. That everything from today is driving him toward exhaustion and he needs to rest, but he doesn’t listen. He never does.
It’s been almost two weeks since he last saw Namjoon. Two weeks since he allowed himself a moment to breathe and relax without having to worry about work. They hired a new employee recently. A kid named Jeongguk who’s been taking some of the load off Yoongi since they’re partnered to work together.
Truthfully, Yoongi can’t help but feel bad putting the additional work on Jeongguk. The kid looks younger than he is and he’s bound to be stressed within his first week. Yoongi wonders if he’ll last.
Right now though, he wants to focus on finishing his Vodka and Cranberry Juice, but the way he made it would make one think it’s straight Vodka.
His head is thrown back against the cushion of the couch, eyes fluttering shut as he swirls the drink in his hand. His brain screams that it’s exhausted, but the rest of his body is burning with a desire to do something, to stay awake for a while longer. He has tomorrow off, but instead of sleeping in like he really wants there’s actual things that need to be done around the house.
Cleaning, for example, is one. His house has been so messy ever since his roommate moved out that he’s surprised Namjoon even came inside of it. Grocery shopping is also on his list. He’s not sure how many more days of ramen he can stand. Honestly, he doesn’t even want to finish the rest of it. Maybe he can give it to Namjoon to give to Taehyung. The younger has a huge obsession with ramen.
“Did you fall asleep?” Namjoon slurs. Yoongi slowly opens his eyes, turns his head and finds Namjoon staring at him with big, bold, brown eyes. The elder pulls away and downs the remainder of his drink before setting the glass down on the table to make another one.
He probably shouldn’t make another drink. He can’t even remember how many he’s had or what time it is. Could it be late at night right now? Maybe two in the morning? Maybe not. He doubts Namjoon would stay that long though. The younger preferred sleeping with the comfort of his husbands. It’s a rare occurrence that he stays here.
“No.” Yoongi shakes his head. He runs a hand over his face, through his hair and sighs. “I should though and so should you.”
Namjoon clicks his tongue, “I've got to get home first before I can sleep.” He sets the empty can of beer on the table and stands up from the couch. He wobbles for a moment, arms reaching out to collect himself should he fall. He doesn’t though and Yoongi is glad. They don’t need any injuries right now.
“Call Hoseok or Taehyung then.” Yoongi says. “You aren’t driving yourself back and I’ve drank too much myself. Have one of them come and get you or stay the night.”
The younger doesn’t argue as he finds his phone lost underneath the blanket and dials one of his husbands. Yoongi collects his and Namjoon’s drinks and wobbles over to the kitchen to start cleaning up at least a little bit. Out of sight, out of mind. That way he won’t feel the need — the want — to make another drink even if he’s already wanting one.
He throws the empty can of beer in the recycling then places his cup in the sink. Thankfully since he eats ramen constantly the sink isn’t overflowing with dishes, but it’s also a reminder that his diet is definitely not the best and he needs to fix it soon.
Maybe he should consider slowing down on his hours. He needs to collect his life before it completely drifts away.
“Hyung,” Namjoon says as Yoongi walks back into the living room. He finds his best friend laying down on the couch with his phone resting on top of the blanket. “Do you ever think about getting married?”
Yoongi tilts his head as he moves Namjoon’s legs and takes his spot next to him on the sofa back. He shakes his head. “Of course not. Why?”
It’s not entirely true, but it’s also not totally false. Yoongi has been in plenty of relationships through his twenty-five years, but none of them have lasted longer than a year. Nothing stayed. Nobody wanted to. Marriage was always out of the question.
But that's not to say Yoongi never thought about it. When he was younger he used to dream about how his wedding would go. What colours he would have if it was grand, but then he would wonder exactly what type of wedding he would have. Would he and his partner spend months planning it? Or would it be super quick?
It all depends on who he’s with.
But now with work being the epicenter of his life, he doesn’t have time to pursue a relationship. Nor does he want one.
He has very little faith that it would succeed as all his others have failed.
“Okay before you call me crazy then, hear me out.” Yoongi tilts his head in confusion as his fists bunch up the blanket and pull some over his lap. He feels like he may end up passing out on the couch. He definitely drank more than Namjoon then but that’s to be expected after the week he just had.
Hours and hours of paperwork with very few rests in between. The only reason he even got off early today and why he has tomorrow off is because of Jeongguk joining the team. A boy with so much potential being tasked with so much work already. It’s a moment he needs to excel in.
“I have a friend who needs a little help.” Namjoon begins, “I won’t go into details because it’s personal but basically he needs to marry someone and he’s single so it isn’t going well for him.”
Yoongi hums, taps his fingers against his knee as he waits for Namjoon to continue. What was the purpose of telling him this? What did Namjoon have coming with this? What did he want?
“There’s a deadline for when he needs to be married and it’s coming up at the end of next week and he’s a bit panicked because he hasn’t found anyone. He doesn’t know what to do.” Namjoon inhales a breath, meets Yoongi’s gaze and smiles hopefully. “I was wondering if you’d marry him, Hyung?”
There’s a beat of silence that follows as Yoongi lets the words process in his head. His brain, which is way too exhausted, works to understand those words. Maybe he still doesn't understand completely. Maybe it’s because he’s tired. Or maybe it's because he’s drunk that Namjoon’s words seem foreign to him.
Maybe it’s because he gave up on the idea of getting married years ago.
He holds his hands out and looks at Namjoon confused. “Why do you always propose crazy shit when I’m drunk?” He questions. Namjoon simply shrugs in response. “Didn’t we almost go to a club last time? Do you think I’ll say yes just because I’m drunk?”
Namjoon shakes his head, “No. I’m asking you while you’re drunk because it’s the only time I can.” He sighs. “We hardly see each other Yoongi. And texting you is like texting a baby. You barely answer. Just think about it and give me an answer. It’s not going to hurt me if you say no.”
“You kind of just threw that at me though. Now I’ll feel bad if I say no.” Yoongi lets out a grumble, looks up at the ceiling and sighs.
Whoever this person is has to marry someone by the end of next week. Why though? He knows Namjoon said it’s personal but he can’t help but be curious. It didn’t seem like anything bad though. Namjoon is one to keep good people around him, not people who are into bad things or anything.
“Is it just a marriage of convenience?” Yoongi asks. “Like I’m helping him with this by marrying him? What do I gain?”
“A friend?” Namjoon offers. “I’m not sure. But if there’s something you want you should talk to him. He’ll do something to thank you.”
“If I agree to this does that mean he’ll end up moving here? Or will I be moving in with him?”
Honestly, Yoongi does not want to move. He loves his apartment. Loves the small space it offers, how well it fits him and it’s been his apartment for a long time now. He never has issues with the landlords and every time his lease is up he’s ready to renew it. He doesn’t want to move out unless he absolutely has to and he hopes he doesn’t.
“That’s something you would have to ask Jimin about.” Namjoon shrugs, “I can set up a meeting between the two of you if you’d like? That way you two can talk and discuss everything. Then you can decide?”
Yoongi peels the blanket off of himself and stands up as the front door is opened. He has a tendency to never lock it and all of his friends are quite aware of that so they walk right in. Though even if the doors were locked they all have keys of their own so it wouldn’t matter in the end.
Hoseok and Taehyung walk into the apartment, eyes filled with sleep as Namjoon gets up and greets them. “Sorry for waking you two up.” He murmurs as he kisses both of them.
Taehyung shakes his head, “I don’t mind. I'd rather be woken up by you asking for a ride than a call from someone saying you were in an accident.”
“Agreed.” Hoseok takes Namjoon’s hand into his own, squeezes and turns to face Yoongi. “It’s been a while Hyung. How are you?”
“Good.” Yoongi nods as he runs a hand through his blonde hair. “Tired and overworked as always but that’s on me. Aside from that I’m good. Namjoon mentioned something about one of your friends?”
Taehyung tilts his head, “Who? Jiminie?” Yoongi nods his head. “Are you considering it? That would really help him out. I know he’s been stressed recently and you two would really get along well.”
“Namjoon is gonna arrange a meeting between the two of us so I can get to know him and we can discuss everything before I make a decision.” Yoongi explains. Namjoon looks at him with wide eyes.
“Wait you’re actually agreeing to meet him?”
Yoongi nods, “I have tomorrow off anyways. See if he can meet then.”
“Oh. Sure.” Namjoon wears a wide smile as Taehyung wraps an arm around his waist and helps him walk towards the door. “I’ll...text you in the morning then. Don’t sleep in too late.”
“Yeah. No promises.” Yoongi replies.
But even as Namjoon and the others leave, Yoongi knows he won’t sleep in. He never does. Even if he really wants to.
—☆彡—
Their meeting is set for two o’clock the next day. Namjoon didn’t tell him where exactly they’d be meeting. He didn’t even give him a dress code. Should he be wearing something nice if he’s meeting his potential husband? Or does it not matter considering they’ll be living together once everything is finalized. Maybe this Jimin just didn’t care about attire and said Yoongi could wear whatever he wanted.
He’s had a busy morning.
Busy keeping himself distracted, busy keeping his mind under his normal stress level. He doesn’t know why he’s anxious about this meeting, doesn’t know why he’s almost afraid of what he’s accepting. It’s not everyday your best friend up and asks you to marry their friend to help them out.
What if he and Jimin don’t get along with each other? What if they’re too different? What if they don’t learn about any of their differences until after they're married and have moved in with each other. That would make it nearly impossible to live together, wouldn’t it?
Isn’t that part of the fun though? It’s been so long since Yoongi invited someone new into his house, since he’s opened himself up to a new friendship.. After all, he and his last roommate didn’t always see eye to eye with each other on a lot of things but they still managed to live together harmoniously and have a good relationship.
He’s sure he can do this with Jimin.
A part of him is determined to do this.
He’s dressed decently. Not too fancy but also not too casual. His pants are a simple pair of black skinnies — ones that don’t have holes in them — with a nicer button up shirt in cream colour. He doesn’t want to go too formal, even though there’s a small section of his closet for it when the time comes.
He’s spent the majority of the morning making sure everything was tidy. Washing the dishes in the sink, wiping all of the counter tops, vacuuming the whole apartment and mopping in the kitchen. Yongi folded the blanket he and Namjoon had used the night before, putting away the leftover alcohol and throwing away snack wrappers and takeout containers that had accumulated in the living room.
The bathroom wasn’t necessarily too bad but Yoongi wanted to make a good first impression should Jimin decide he wants to come and see the apartment.
He’s not a slob by any means.
Yoongi actually prefers when the house is tidy and clean. When everything is presentable and he doesn’t have to worry about being humiliated if someone comes over unexpectedly.
That’s one thing his roommate was good at. He kept everything nice and tidy, made meals and stocked the refrigerator.
Yoongi never realized how lost he would be without him. Or maybe it’s just because work hours have been crazy and he hasn’t had a chance to breathe.
He doesn’t mind the work. It keeps him busy, plus he makes a decent paycheck with how much he’s working, but he knows he’s missing out on things. And sometimes he curses his workaholic brain for making it harder for him to not work.
Even this is hard for his brain to accept. He never has Wednesday’s off. It’s one day he’s consistently working every week and now that he’s not he’s confused and conflicted. God, how long has it been since his last day off?
What should he be doing? How hasn’t he gone crazy and tried to call in yet?
Maybe it’s because he’s making himself think of his meeting with Jimin as business. Maybe that’s what it is. But, he knows he can’t keep that facade up, especially if they agree on an arrangement. It won’t be just business anymore. They’ll be partners.
Together.
Until death do they part.
“You’re sure I look good enough?” Yoongi asks. He glances towards Namjoon. They’re currently standing outside the coffee shop where Jimin insisted they meet. Somewhere quiet. Peaceful. Where most people won’t come to stay, just grabbing a coffee to go.
There are windows surrounding the whole building. Yoongi wonders if Jimin can see him already. Wonders why he’s standing outside and not coming in. But Yoongi doesn’t let himself worry about that. He needs a moment to calm down, to collect himself.
“You asked that at home and I said yes. You asked in the car and I said yes.” Namjoon turns to face him, “and now I'm saying yes again. You look fine, Hyung. Jimin won’t care what you're wearing.”
Yoongi inhales a breath, a part of him knows that Namjoon is right. That this Jimin fellow really won’t care what he’s wearing but he still can’t help but be a little nervous. He once showed up to a casual interview wearing a suit because he didn’t know the proper dress code. It’s something he worries about now.
“Come on. Let’s go inside. I’ll introduce you and then you two can talk. How does that sound?” Namjoon asks.
Yoongi bites on his lower lip.
“It sounds like you’re an adult and I’m a teenager who just turned eighteen and you’re making me adult for the very first time.” He admits.
Namjoon cracks a grin, “You’re nervous. That’s all.”
The elder rolls his eyes as he adjusts his shirt, “I know I am. I just don’t know why. Are you sure I—“
“ Yes.” Namjoon answers before Yoongi can finish, grabs his arms and pulls him towards the entry doors.
“W-wait, I’m not...I’m not ready!”
“Well you should be.” Namjoon huffs as they enter the coffee shop. The smell of baked pastries and coffee fills Yoongi’s nostrils. He’s weak for coffee. It’s his favourite thing to drink. If he could drink it for every meal he could, but alas he cannot.
Namjoon pulls him towards the back of the shop, past the occupied tables at the front towards a table with one person sitting with their back to the window. He has a book in his hands and a coffee sitting in front of him. Once they get closer Yoongi realizes there’s a second coffee. An iced americano. His favourite.
This must have been Namjoon’s idea.
“Jimin!” Namjoon beams. He lets go of Yoongi’s arms as the stranger lifts his head up, turns to look at them and sets his book down. Yoongi watches as his eyes flash with recognition, with happiness as he quickly bookmarks where he was reading and sets the book aside. He stands up and immediately pulls Namjoon in for a hug.
“Hyung!” He smiles brightly. Jimin's smile is pretty. Extremely pretty. Yoongi almost wishes it had been for him and not Namjoon. “It’s so good to see you again. It’s been about a month, hasn’t it?”
Namjoon nods his head as Jimin pulls away from the hug. They both turn towards Yoongi who’s been standing there awkwardly, admiring Jimin and calling himself crazy because there’s no way someone as pretty as Jimin would settle for a mediocre workaholic like himself. He doubts he would.
“This is Yoongi.” Namjoon introduces. Jimin’s eyes lock with Yoongi’s and for a moment, he feels intimidated. For a moment he wants to look away and maybe back out of this but he musters the courage to raise his hand, wave and smile. Jimin doesn’t smile though. It makes Yoongi miss it already. “I’m sure you two have things to discuss so I’ll go get myself a coffee and make myself comfortable elsewhere here. Hyung, come find me when you're ready, okay?”
Wait. Namjoon’s leaving? Yoongi knew he said he would be letting them talk alone, but he didn't think it'd be right after introducing them. He won’t really leave him to talk to Jimin himself so soon, would he?
But his fears are confirmed when Namjoon brushes past him and walls up to the counter to order himself something. Well great. Now he’s alone with the person he might end up marrying.
He knows it’s important. Knows it’s vital that the two of them talk. That they discuss everything but he’s nervous. He hardly talks to people at work and when he does it sometimes sends him into a state of anxiety. He’s never been good at talking with strangers. That was Namjoon’s strong suit and Yoongi’s weakness. It’s why whenever Yoongi goes out he has either Namjoon, Taehyung or Hoseok by his side.
“Well then.” Jimin fixes his jacket. He isn’t dressed formally either which leaves Yoongi feeling a little bit relaxed as the stranger motions to the chair to have him sit down. Yoongi walks by him, pulls the chair out from the table and plops down. Jimin gestures towards the iced americano and says "I ordered that for you, Namjoon said you liked iced americanos." Yoongi reaches out for the coffee that Jimin bought for him and takes a sip. “I’m sure Namjoon has said before but I’m Park Jimin. I’m honored that you agreed to meet with me.”
Yoongi sets the drink aside, he doesn’t want to seem rude by drinking while Jimin is speaking. “I’m still a bit shocked and confused by this whole thing. Namjoon didn’t give me much to go by except the fact that his friend needs to get married before the end of next week.”
Jimin nods his head, “That covers it mainly. And honestly, I hadn’t expected to get anywhere. I figured I’d have to settle for someone my father chose so when Namjoon called me this morning saying he had someone interested I was so excited.”
Yoongi doesn’t think he’s necessarily excited about the whole thing. But he’s not angry or mad or upset at it. He did make the decision to come himself after all. If he wasn’t at least interested in helping then he wouldn’t have come to begin with.
But still, he has questions and he wants answers.
“Your face is telling me you have things you want to know.” Jimin comments. Yoongi quickly reaches out for his drink to take another sip. Something to occupy himself with for a moment. “I do too, but ask your questions first.”
“Ok then.” Yoongi leans his elbows on the table as he looks Jimin directly in the eyes. He may be a shy person but when it comes to getting the answers that he wants, he’ll ask them with no hesitation. “Namjoon mentioned something about living together. Might that be at your place or mine?”
“I would prefer it to be yours.” Jimin answers honestly. “Right now I live with my parents and I assure you, you don’t want to live there.”
No, Yoongi thinks, I really don’t. I like my apartment.
“My apartment has two bedrooms so there’s enough space for you to move in.”
“Perfect.” He hears Jimin murmur under his breath. Then he clears his throat and adds, “I’ll be more than happy to help out with bills and such too. So please don’t think I’m doing this just to live rent free. I’ll pay my part.” Yoongi nods his head. “Okay, my turn. Tell me more about yourself.”
For a moment, Yoongi blanks. There’s truthfully not much to tell about him. He’s quite a boring man. Would this help Jimin determine whether to go through with this or not?
“Well, I’m twenty-five.” He begins, Jimin nods his head urging him to continue. “I work full time which is where I am the majority of the time as I’m someone who prefers working. I like drinking, and my best friend is Namjoon. That’s about it.”
Jimin blanches, “That's...it?” Yoongi nods his head in confirmation. “That’s not much truthfully. Do you have any hobbies? Anything you like besides drinking? What do you do for fun? How do you relax?”
Yoongi shakes his head, “I don’t, not really. I spend all my time working and when I come home I basically eat something real quick, shower and go to bed. It’s a rinse and repeat cycle.”
There’s a frown that pulls on Jimin’s lips as his voice gets softer and says, “Doesn’t it ever get boring? Doing the same thing over and over and over again?”
“It does.” Yoongi lets out a sigh as he looks towards the wall. He wishes there was a window right here like the majority of the shop but there isn’t so he has to focus on the painting on display. A tree split in half with one side the night sky and the other side the sunrise. It’s beautiful, Yoongi thinks. “But it’s all I know. Work, work, work. It’s how my life has been the last few years.”
Jimin purses his lips together as he taps his fingers against the wooden table. He stays quiet for a moment and Yoongi wonders if him saying that just ruined any chance they had of helping Jimin. Now that he's met Jimin, Yoongi doesn’t want him to go into a marriage that he doesn’t want. And if it's not with Yoongi, his feelings won't be hurt and he'll have only wasted part of his day off.
Though he doesn’t know why part of him wants this to work. Maybe it's because there’s a strange level of comfort he feels with Jimin within their first ten minutes of talking to each other. Namjoon has always been a great judge of character. He surrounds himself with friends that are bright, full of life, and all around great people. Maybe that’s why he’s so comforted, because Jimin is someone Namjoon trusts.
“What is it you want from this?” Jimin asks, bringing the conversation back to the topic at hand. Yoongi doesn’t mind though. This question is an important one. “Surely you’re not going into this without wanting something, right?”
“Honestly…” Yoongi bites his lip. “I’ve been thinking all day but there’s not much I could want when I have basically everything.” He deflates against the back of the seat and meets Jimin’s eyes. “I guess there’s only one real thing, but I wouldn’t call it a thing necessarily.”
“What is it?”
“In the past I had a roommate,” Yoongi begins. He grabs the straw for his americano and spins it around. His eyes fall on the ice as it moves around the cup in swirls. “He used to keep the fridge stocked and house tidy since I was always at work.” His eyes immediately shoot up, “That doesn’t mean I’m asking you to clean up after me! I can do that myself too. I was just thinking maybe you could help out? Namjoon gets on me for eating too much takeout and ramen because I never go buy groceries.”
That brings a small smile to Jimin’s face as he nods slowly. “You remind me of my friend Jeongguk. That’s all he would be eating if it wasn’t for his boyfriend.” For a moment, Yoongi briefly wonders if it’s the same Jeongguk who started working at his company this week but then realizes that’s crazy. There’s no way it’s possible. “I’d be more than happy helping you out since you’re helping me out.”
Yoongi has never been good at serious conversations. He struggles to find the words he wants to say, ways to properly answer so instead of doing any of that he simply nods. Moving onto the next topic seems a decent idea.
“You asked me to introduce myself but never did yourself.” He comments. Jimin’s eyes widen in surprise.
“Namjoon really didn’t tell you much about me, did he?” Yoongi shakes his head no. “I see. Well, as you know I’m Park Jimin. I’m twenty-three and I don’t have a job, technically, until next week. I really like animals, and having fun and spending time with my friends. As for food I’m not necessarily picky but I don’t do seafood, so you’ll have to buy that yourself.”
Jimin wears a giddy smile as he finishes talking, grabs his own coffee and takes a drink. Yoongi lets out a long drawn out hmm as he stares down at the table. That’s more than what Yoongi provided but not a lot more. He still doesn’t know him that much.
“I suppose in the end, the best way to know each other is to live together and spend time with each other.” Yoongi murmurs to himself. In his head, he said that quietly. So quietly that Jimin wasn’t able to hear that, but from the laugh that comes from Jimin he guesses otherwise.
“You’re right.” Jimin agrees. His smile fades as quickly as it arrived though. “You are aware that if we do this, there’s no turning back right? A divorce can happen but only if one of us definitely doesn't want this anymore, or one of us actually falls in love with someone else. I won’t hold you back from that.”
Yoongi laughs at that, “Bold of you to think I would fall in love with anyone again. I've given up that part of my life.”
“You’d be surprised how life works. You may fall in love one day.” Jimin comments. He holds a hand out for Yoongi to shake. “If you shake my hand our arrangement will be set, I'm trusting you and I think we could make this work to both of our advantages. Well just have to complete the necessary paperwork and then we can get married.”
Yoongi stares at his hand.
This whole thing doesn’t seem like a bad idea. Yoongi doesn’t think Jimin seems like a bad person. He has a feeling more good will come from this than bad, and part of him wants to agree to this. He’s already come this far, he might as well go all the way through with it. And even though Jimin says life could surprise him, Yoongi doubts he’ll ever fall in love.
He debates it over in his head longer than he probably should. Goes through all the pros and the cons before stretching his hand out and taking Jimin’s hand into his own.
Their arrangement is set.
Jimin smiles as Yoongi’s hand meets his own. “I’ll give you my number so you can text me when you’re free again. Do you...by chance know if you’re off before next Friday?”
Yoongi shakes his head, “I normally work seven days a week. I only have today off because we got a new employee who’s working with me.” He purses his lips, “How about Monday? I’ll call and request that day off, does that work?”
“Yeah. That’s perfect. Just text me so I can send you all the information, okay?” Yoongi nods and their hands drop.
Namjoon must have been listening to the conversation or watching from the other side of the cafe and knew they were done because a few moments later he’s appeared next to the table with a smile on his face and a coffee in his hands.
“I take it everything went smoothly?” He asks. Jimin and Yoongi nod their heads in unison. “How delightful. I knew it would.”
Yoongi laughs at his comment as he stands from the chair, grabs his own coffee and pulls his phone out of his pocket. He unlocks it and passes it over to Jimin to put his number in. A moment later he gets it back but before he can check it, Jimin is bidding them both goodbye with words that he has to run and they’ll see each other Monday.
They both watch as Jimin leaves, glowing brightly with a happy smile. Then Yoongi looks down at his phone to send Jimin a message.
From me:
Hey. It’s Yoongi.
From future husband:
Hello :P
Upon reading the contact name, Yoongi can’t help but snort a laugh as he and Namhoon leave the coffee shop.
From me:
Future husband, huh? Cute.
From future husband:
I know I am.
Thanks for noticing.
Yoongi lets out a full laugh then as he pockets his phone and walks to Namjoon’s car.
Jimin definitely seems interesting.
Maybe this will go well.
—☆彡—
Monday comes faster than Yoongi had expected, but when he thinks about it he’s a bit glad it’s here now. Over the last few days, work has been a lot more draining than normal.
While Yoongi is used to the constant paperwork, phone calls and meetings he has with his coworkers, he didn’t take into account that he had to properly train Jeongguk and become accountable for him. Whenever there was something wrong, be it a phone call Jeongguk was struggling with, paperwork that seemed fishy, or a simple question that was really easy to answer, Yoongi had to take the lead and show Jeongguk how to precede.
At the end of the day, Jeongguk was under his care. He was in his department, and with Yoongi being one of the supervisors for that department it left him in charge of training all new employees.
At least Jeongguk was nice, respectful, and a decent person to have around. He’s nothing like the employee they hired last time. Yoongi could not stand him.
Yoongi adjusts his vest and shirt as he stares at the small crowd of people in front of him. Namjoon, Taehyung, Hoseok and Jimin are all standing together chatting. The plan was for them all to come together, but after his initial panicking and debating whether this was actually a good idea or not, Yoongi was running late.
Deep down, Yoongi knows he wants to do this. He likes to consider himself someone who will help others when they need it whether it benefits him or not. It’s just how he was raised. He remembers growing up his parents used to help the homeless and the struggling as much as they could, and even though they received nothing in return the thought of doing something good was rewarding.
Okay, maybe that isn’t a good example nor a good comparison. This is bigger than helping those in the sense that this is permanent, but Yoongi likes to think they’re similar. Likes to think he got this need to help others from his parents.
He doesn’t think Jimin is a bad person. Thinks that maybe this will be a good thing for the both of them. Jimin gets to complete the one thing he’s been needing to do while Yoongi gets a friend in the process.
He looks around the courthouse. At the reds and whites that cover the walls, painted like a picture that was never fully finished since some corners have gotten old. It feels like a farm almost from the colluding alone, like they’re the animals inside because sometimes things get crazy.
And Yoongi feels like what they’re doing is crazy.
Surprisingly, it’s quiet though. Voices shushed as they talk amongst themselves. Conversations about anything, everything and stuff related to actually being at the courthouse. Yoongi doesn’t remember the last time he was here. If he ever was. None of this looks familiar.
He wonders how this is going to go. Would they sign a contract? Fill out paperwork? Would they be getting married here or did Jimin set up some small gathering for them? He supposes he’ll find out, but first he needs to actually go up and greet them.
He isn’t sure why he’s a bit afraid to go up to them all. Doesn’t understand why his heart is beating like he’s just been scared. There’s nothing scary about this. Nothing at all. He knows that.
Yoongi inhales a breath, closes his eyes and counts to ten. He knows he can back out of this. Knows that Jimin won’t keep him in this arrangement, this marriage, if he decides against it. But he wants to do this. Every fiber inside of him says it’s a good idea.
He’s already given up on the chance of falling in love again. He’s given up on feeling that love that he once yearned when he was younger. This is a good opportunity. He truly thinks that.
And with that in mind, he takes a step forward.
He won’t turn away from this.
He’s already committed.
“Hyung! You made it!” Taehyung beams as his eyes land on Yoongi. The elder raises a hand and waves shyly. The others turn to face him, all with their same shared smile. Yoongi’s eyes land on Jimin first.
He’s dressed in a navy blue suit. Dark tie wrapped around his neck and a white shirt underneath. His hair is brushed back, nothing like their original meeting where it was parted slightly in the middle. Today, his forehead is revealed and Yoongi thinks that makes him even more ravishing.
“Of course. It’s my wedding day, I wasn’t going to miss it.” Yoongi smiles in Jimin’s direction before glancing towards Taehyung and the others. “You all look nice today. Especially you, Jimin.”
Out of the corner of his eye, Yoongi can see Jimin’s cheeks tint a light pink as he clears his throat. “Y-you look well yourself.” He murmurs. He looks away from all of them and turns towards one of the photos hanging on the wall. “W-we should get inside the room. We’re a bit behind so we’ll have to hurry if we want to finish on time.”
“Right. Sorry about that.” Yoongi rubs the back of his neck sheepishly. He really is sorry. It wasn’t his intention to actually be late. It just happened to turn out that way because of the pre-marriage anxiety that came with it.
He’s good now though.
He’s ready.
Namjoon, Taehyung and Hoseok lead the way to the room they’re supposed to go into while Jimin hangs back with Yoongi. Despite his initial comment to go inside the room, he doesn’t budge, much to Yoongi’s confusion.
“Are you sure you want this?” Jimin whispers. He steps closer to Yoongi, lowers the distance between them so eager ears can’t overhear their conversation. “You can back out if you want. I won’t be hurt or anything.”
Yoongi has never been one to like physical touch unless it’s with people he’s closest with like Namjoon and the others. Yet, at this moment he can’t help but reach down and take Jimin’s hand into his own. A means of reassurance. Of promise.
“If I say I do,” Yoongi answers, “then yes, I want this. I’ve had four days to think this decision over and I want to do this. I want to help you Jimin. So let me.”
The ends of Jimin’s lips curl into a smile as he looks down at the ground. “Remember then, that at any time if you want a divorce I’ll grant it, or if I want a divorce you’ll grant it. I won’t keep you in this should you ever want out.”
Yoongi nods his head as he and Jimin take their first few steps towards the door that leads to their future. “I remember. Your bedroom is clean as well so you can move in as soon as you want to.”
“Today then.” Jimin squeezes Yoongi’s hand and smiles at Hoseok comes out to check on them. “After this we can do that. How does that sound?”
“It sounds good.” Hoseok beams as the two of them pass, reaches a hand out for Yoongi’s shoulder and squeezed in reassurance.
The room isn’t as big as he expected it to be, coloured the same as the rest of the courthouse. White paint that needs to be redone, dark red furniture littering the floor. It looks decent, it all comes together but it isn’t Yoongi’s favourite. He prefers neutral colours.
They walk over to the side table where there’s papers lined up with words and words that Yoongi honestly does not want to read but ultimately does. He’s even filling out paperwork on his days off.
There’s various things that the paperwork consists of through Yoongi skimming and actually reading if he deems them extremely important. A contract listing everything he and Jimin had discussed fills one page. He’s surprised Jimin managed to remember that all considering he didn’t take any notes or anything.
A page filled with information about how leaving the marriage can happen if either side of the party no longer want this or if they fall in love. And then a final contract, but unlike those, this is their marriage certificate.
Yoongi finds himself staring at the certificate longer than he probably should.
When he was younger his mother used to say she had dreams of him getting married one day. She used to say she was excited for the day that she met Yoongi’s partner. Sadly none of Yoongi’s relationship lasted long enough for her to ever meet them. It’s almost as bad as never dating once in his life before.
He wonders what his mother would say about their situation. How she would feel about him getting married to a stranger. Would she feel angry? Confused? Maybe both.
It’s strange now looking down at this certificate, reminding himself that he’s actually getting married despite thinking the last two years that he never would. Weird knowing that he’s going through this step with someone he didn’t know existed until four days ago. There’s no chemistry behind them, no time for them to hang out and fully get to know each other but that’s part of the excitement, right?
In a way it’s like being in college. Having a roommate that you’re stuck with for an entire semester. It’s easy to grow close to them that way and Yoongi thinks it’ll be the same for him and Jimin. Only there’s more between the two of them.
“Can I ask you something?” Yoongi murmurs. His pen lingers over where he needs to sign on the certificate, looms over him as he stares at Jimin’s signature.
Did Jimin want this? Or was he hoping to one day get married to someone he loved? It doesn’t seem like he has any signs of hesitation. Doesn’t seem like he doesn’t want this but then again Yoongi hasn’t asked him exactly how he feels.
He makes a mental note to ask him about it tonight.
“Go ahead.” Jimin doesn’t push on the fact that Yoongi is still waiting to sign his name. He doesn’t hurry him up despite the small time frame they have. Yoongi is grateful for that. Even now he’s waiting, almost like he thinks Yoongi is going to leave this and him behind. He isn’t though.
“I’m assuming for this we’ll have to kiss. Are you...comfortable doing that?” Yoongi straightens up and lets his eyes fall on Jimin. It’s the first time either of them mentioned anything related to actually getting married but it only just now dawned on him that they would have to do such a thing.
“I’m gonna hope this sounds like a nice thing when I say I rather kiss you than someone I meet at a bar after a night of drinking.” Jimin replies.
That brings a laugh out of Yoongi, a feeling of lightness takes the place of the anxiety as he leans down to the paper and signs his name. He sets the pen down and stands up straight once again.
“Alright then, future husband. Let’s get married.” Yoongi outstretches his hand as Jimin grabs the paperwork with his right hand and then takes Yoongi’s in his left.
The three of their friends are standing in the front all eager and excited for what’s about to occur. Yoongi leads them up there, squeezing Jimin’s hand in reassurance.
He exhales a breath as he and Jimin approach the front, heart hammering in his chest as he thinks: to the rest of our future.
—☆彡—
From future husband:
You should probably change my contact name now
From me:
Oh yeah
I probably should, huh? I forgot about it
Yoongi opens up the contact app on his phone and changes Jimin’s name from future husband. He smiles softly at the new name and goes to pocket his phone, but before he can it vibrates once again.
From husband:
I changed yours too
Also I’ll be by in about two hours so see you then
Two hours.
Yoongi purses his lips as he looks around the apartment. His eyes land on the coffee table where their paperwork lays, where it will sit until both of them decide a decent and secure place for it to stay.
He finds it hard to believe that an hour ago he got married to someone he barely knows anything about but looking down at his hand he sees the rings that Jimin had surprisingly picked out for them prior to their wedding. He’s amazed that Jimin picked one, beautiful rings, and two, knew his size. Though he honestly thinks Namjoon had something to do with that.
Then again, how does Namjoon know his size? But come to think about it...he thinks he’s missing one of his rings. He would have to double check though.
The house isn’t necessarily messy. It’s simple cleaning that could be finished before Jimin even arrives, before the hour even hits, but the actual motivation to clean is one that Yoongi doesn’t think he has. He knows deep down that this isn’t messy, knows it can be overlooked because he’s a busy man and that messes can occur but he really wants to strike a good first home impression with Jimin. Especially because he’ll be living here from now until…
Well, forever.
Unless one day they both agree it’s time for a bigger place or something occurs where they get divorced, but for now Yoongi plans to live here at least a few more years.
He runs a hand through the mop of now messy hair. He showered this morning but now it wouldn’t even look (or smell) like it considering how nervous he had been. And while it was partially because of the whole thing it was also because his friends were watching as they shared vows and their first kiss. He couldn’t help but sweat up a storm.
He probably should shower. He also really needs to clean.
In the end, he comes to a compromise. If he finishes cleaning then he can shower. There’s no point in showering then cleaning if he’s just going to get all hot and sweaty once again. It would be a waste and Yoongi knows that.
Walking over to the coffee table, Yoongi reaches past the paperwork, grabs a hair tie and pulls his hair up. It’s not too long, but it’s long enough to the point it covers his eyes, touches his ears and he can put it in a very messy ponytail. Sometimes he does it just because he likes, other times because he doesn’t want to deal with his hair. And though part of him knows he should get it cut sometime soon he doesn’t actually plan to. He wants to grow his hair out a bit longer so that he can actually put it up in either a proper ponytail or a bun. Either would be nice.
He digs into his pocket, pulls his phone out once more and heads to his music so that he can play it. He’s found that listening to music makes it easier to clean, makes it more fun. Dancing and singing along the words while he mops or sweeps is the highlight of his cleaning. Plus, it will help him with his nervousness.
He sets the phone down on the coffee table as he picks up trash from around it, places the paperwork neatly in the corner so it’s easy to find and then walks to the kitchen to throw everything else away. Unlike last week, there actually aren’t any dishes in the sink simply because he’s had either ramen or takeout the last few days. He really needs to get back on track with eating properly.
Maybe Jimin will help with that.
A glance to the clock beside his television says it’s nearly five forty. From Jimin’s message, Yoongi guesses Jimin will be around by seven thirty.
He snaps his fingers as he adjusts the couch cushions.
He’ll need to hurry.
—☆彡—
Jimin arrives approximately three minutes after seven thirty. His hair isn’t cleaned up the way it had been before, sweat damping his forehead as he inhales a breath. Did he rush here or was he simply out of breath from packing everything up for the move?
He’s no longer in that suit that he wore at the courthouse, instead he’s in a regular pair of blue skinny jeans and a t-shirt revealing his arms. Yoongi can’t help but be captured at the small tattoo that cover his wrist. Simple yet delicate is Jimin’s tattoo: (1)3.
Yoongi can’t help but wonder what it means. For now though, he doesn’t ask.
He’s spent the last twenty minutes double checking and sweeping Jimin’s room. His roommate did a tremendous job of keeping it clean but he wanted to make sure it was extra clean if he could.
His hair is still a bit damp from his shower roughly thirty minutes ago but he doesn’t care about it as he moves from the doorway and allows Jimin to come in. He’s glad he doesn’t live on the second floor. Getting the furniture in here the first time was a struggle, he can’t imagine how that would have gone if he was on the second story.
“Did you find the place okay?” Yoongi asks as Jimin comes inside with two boxes in his hands. They’re small and don’t look like they weigh much. That’s probably why Jimin brought them up first. That or they contain valuables that he wants to keep safe.
Jimin nods his head. “I used my GPS to get here so it wasn’t too hard. You’re around stores as well so it’s quite convenient.” He stops in the middle of the living room and looks around. His eyes fall on the couch, the paperwork, the television and clock. Then he looks towards the open kitchen and lets out a hum. “It’s cute. Small but I think it will work for the both of us.”
“I hope so,” Yoongi murmurs. He points Jimin to the direction of his bedroom.
With how small their apartment actually is there isn’t a hallway that leads them to their doors. Rather there’s a wall where the kitchen is and three doors. One door straight ahead and two on the right side. Yoongi’s is the room straight ahead.
They head together to the room, Yoongi opens the door for Jimin and flicks on the light revealing an empty space with hardwood, curtains covering the window and a light that should probably be changed soon. Jimin lets out a noise of awe as he sets the boxes down beside the door.
“There’s no furniture in here,” He comments. Yoongi immediately turns his head to look at him. Had he forgot to mention that? It completely slipped his mind that Jimin would need actual furniture if they’re sharing a house together. He cursed internally.
“I forgot to mention it to you, didn’t I?” Jimin nods his head in response. “I’m sorry. My last roommate purchased all the furniture in here himself so he took it with when he left.”
Jimin waves a hand dismissively as he walks out from the bedroom and checks the restroom. He leaves Yoongi’s door alone though. “It’s alright. I can have Jeongguk and Seokjin join me tomorrow for shopping. The two love it when they’re getting something in return.”
“I see.” Yoongi lets out a hum as he flicks the light off and follows. “I can give you a blanket and you can sleep on the couch for tonight. Or there’s always my bed. It’s quite big so I’m sure we’ll both fit.”
The younger stops in his tracks and turns to face him. “I get that we’re married now and technically married people sleep together but you don’t have to do that. I’m perfectly comfortable sleeping on the couch.”
“Only if you want to. I know it’s quite comfortable since Namjoon manages to almost pass out every time he’s over here but the offer remains on the table.” He brushes past Jimin and heads over to the front door where there’s an extra key hanging.
After work yesterday he managed to head over and make a second key to his apartment that way Jimin would have one.
“Here.” Yoongi says. He takes it down from where it hangs and holds it out to Jimin. The younger stares at him in confusion until he holds it up, “This is a key to the apartment. I think you might need it.”
“Quite possibly.” Jimin laughs as he takes the key into his hands. He admires it for a moment before reaching into his pocket, pulling his own small set of keys out and hooks it on there so he doesn’t lose it. “Thank you.” He stuffs the keys back into his pocket and prances out the front door with Yoongi following in tow. Jimin looks at him in confusion, “Are you helping me unload?”
Yoongi scoffs, “Of course I am. I’m not gonna make you do it all by yourself.” He offers a small smile, a gesture of support as they approach Jimin’s truck. From here Yoongi can see through the windows at how much stuff there is. While it isn’t necessarily a lot, there are some big boxes lingering in the back seat and bed. It may take them a while to get it all done, but faster than if Jimin worked alone.
“Have you eaten yet?” Jimin asks. Yoongi shakes his head as the bed is opened and boxes move around from the travel. He quickly catches one before it falls out completely and looks at Jimin. “I’ll treat you to dinner afterwards then. How does that sound?”
“You don’t have to treat me. I just want to help out. You have a lot of stuff.” Jimin piles a second smaller box on top of the one Yoongi is already carrying. He picks up two of his own after and carries them over towards the apartment.
“My treat.” He insists.
Yoongi sighs, can feel that he’s already lost the battle that he’s not exactly trying to win. He nods his head slowly though he knows Jimin can’t see. “Fine.” He mutters quietly, but Yoongi can see the curl of Jimin’s smile at his answer.
Yoongi thinks Jimin will be the (good) death of him.
—☆彡—
It’s three days later that Jimin officially moves into the apartment. There’s furniture that he, Seokjin and Jeongguk had picked out. Clothes covering the closest and the bed because Jimin hasn’t had a chance to put everything away yet. Photos that Yoongi can tell are important to Jimin on the walls. It feels like Jimin in there. Feels like he spent time thinking and debating everything in his room to make it perfect.
Yoongi thinks it looks quite nice honestly.
He’s sitting on the living room couch. Watching the television after a long exhausting day of work. Though the days do go by a little faster after learning that Jimin’s Jeongguk is the same that works with him now. He wouldn’t say they’re necessarily friends yet but it’s nice to have someone to talk to, even if a lot of Jeongguk’s conversations relate to his boyfriend Seokjin.
He wonders if he and Jimin would ever get that far. There’s a huge feeling of doubt inside of him. Considering he’s given up on ever finding love he doesn’t think it will come to him when he least expects it. Part of him hopes it doesn’t. He doesn’t have the time to do a relationship.
Maybe Jimin and him will be close in their friendship then. He would like that.
It’s been an interesting few days after all. Trying to get used to having someone else in the house all the time unless he was at work or Jimin left to go somewhere. He has to remind himself in the dead of night that Jimin is here now and there’s not a burglar trying to take his belongings.
While it’s not quiet in the house anymore it isn’t exactly loud either. Jimin keeps to himself for a most part, if he’s in the living room the television is kept quiet so he doesn’t disturb Yoongi. It’s a settling quiet that Yoongi enjoys between them, like an unspoken rule that the two have created. And while it doesn’t feel awkward it isn’t exactly pleasant to constantly have such a silence.
He would like to know more about the man he’s now married to after all.
“Here.” Yoongi turns his head from the movie he was watching on the television to glance at the owner of the voice. Jimin stands beside the arm of the couch with two mugs in hand. One for him and one for Yoongi. He takes it quickly and bids him a thank you. “Can I join?”
“You don’t have to ask.” Yoongi murmurs as he adjusts himself. Instead of laying down he instead sits up and drapes the blanket over himself once again. After a moment, he sets the mug down and fixes the blanket so it’s over the both of them. It’s not freezing in the apartment, but it’s still cold enough that Yoongi feels most comfortable when there’s a blanket over him. “Thank you for the drink.”
Jimin cracks a smile, “You said that already.” Embarrassed, Yoongi flushes and looks down at his lap. He forgot he already said it. Slipped his mind because he wanted to keep both of them warm. “Are you always this...awkward? Shy?”
Yoongi shrugs. It’s a yes and no situation. He can talk when he wants to, when he needs to. He just prefers keeping to himself. The only reason he and his roommate got along so well was because they were friends prior to moving in together, but this is a whole stranger. It will take a bit of time to properly warm up to Jimin even if for some reason he feels drawn to him.
“My only friends are Namjoon, Taehyung and Hoseok and I work every day of the week. I don’t have much interactions outside of that so...yes. I suppose so.”
Jimin hums, “That’s fine. I won’t force you to talk if you’re not comfortable.” He explains. Yoongi can feel the younger’s eyes on him. “Though I thought it’d be nice to get to know each other more since we're both out here.”
Yoongi lifts his gaze up, meets Jimin’s eyes and nods. The only way he’ll ever feel fully comfortable is if they’re not strangers anymore. And even though they have the title of husbands it doesn’t change the fact. “We can do that.”
They fall into a pattern then much like their initial meeting. They take turns asking each other questions, back and forth getting to know each other the best that they could. Though only through time will they ever fully know one another.
“What’s something that you always wanted but couldn’t get?” Jimin asks an hour into them talking to one another. The drink that Jimin had made for him now sits empty on the coffee table as Yoongi sits curled up in a ball laying his head against the cushion. He adjusts the blanket once again, television now forgotten as he focuses solely on Jimin.
It’s nice. Yoongi won’t lie about how much he’s actually enjoying this. Their conversation just flows, all awkwardness leaving the room as if it had never existed to begin with. And while Yoongi isn’t one hundred percent comfortable yet, while he doesn’t feel weird or uneasy anymore, he does feel better about this all. Does realize that Jimin really is a good person and he really might enjoy how things will go between them.
He hopes so anyways.
“One thing I’ve always wanted…” Yoongi purses his lips in thought. That’s a hard question. It isn’t one he actively thinks about because if he’s always wanted it then surely there’s a reason he’s never gotten it. Whether that be financial problems, or he just couldn’t get it for other reasons.
The question leaves Yoongi stumped and for a while he doesn’t say anything while he thinks about it. What’s something he’s always wanted?
The answer ends up coming from the television commercial as his eyes flicker across the screen.
“A puppy.” He answers after a moment of hesitation. He glances back at Jimin. “I’ve always wanted to get a puppy but I never could.”
Jimin seems taken aback by the answer but quickly reclaims himself and clears his throat. “Why not?”
“It wouldn’t be fair to them since I’m gone all the time. They’d be locked inside of the apartment for hours and hours and then I come home tired so we can’t go on walks or anything.” Yoongi shrugs, “My roommate and I had actually discussed getting a puppy once and I was extremely excited for it but as you can tell we never got one.”
Jimin lets out a hum of understanding, “What type of puppy would you get if you could?” He taps his fingers on the cushion of the couch, eyes focusing on Yoongi as he finds a slow rhythm. Yoongi finds himself captivated by it.
“A poodle.” Yoongi smiles brightly. “They’re my favourite breed of dogs. They’re so cute and cuddly and sometimes fluffy.”
That makes the younger one giggle.
And while Yoongi doesn’t think much about the question nor why he was curious, he can’t help but imagine how cute it would be to have a puppy and start a tiny little family.