Archive of Our Own

“You two have a nice night now! Don’t be a stranger, Seokjin-ah! ”

“Thank you!” Seokjin beams at the store owner who waves them off, leaving him and his giddy companions to wander the streets. Heart racing, head dizzy but smiling on full blast, he considers tonight a success.

Jimin chatters in his ear, clinging onto his arm, while jostling Namjoon with his other. Seokin doesn’t register half of his words as they’re garbled in his giggling, but Jimin just continues anyways, the ange; he is.  The tallest of their trio is buzzed, but a bit quieter, taking in the night’s chilly air as he pulls his scarf over his mouth. 

“...can’t believe you got us more than half off those drinks!” Jimin exclaims, breathless. “I was wondering why you got the most expensive cocktail, on the entiiire menu. You’re ridiculous.” 

Feeling bold, Seokjin turns to his friends, a sly grin on his face. “You’re welcome,”

Namjoon snickers. “People here are weak to Jin-hyung’s charms,”

“You can say that again.” Jimin hums. “I kind of want...to snack or something. Or have dessert. Maybe something grilled--”

“You just ate,” Namjoon stops in his tracks--they're close to Seokjin’s apartment, and about a five minutes speedwalk to the next convenience store. 

“ And? ” Jimin huffs. 

“You’re gonna be sick, Jimin-ah.” Namjoon says, concern laced in his muffled words. 

Seokjin sighs. This is their first time going out with Jimin in a long while; he’s forgotten how things could unfold when he--well any of them, but especially him--reaps the ‘benefits’ of half-off-drinks. “Do you wanna stop by my place? We’re so close anyways.”

“Really?” Namjoon says, all the while Jimin protests--”No, Jin-hyung!”

All eyes on the shorter male, he grumbles. “Thank you though, but. I’m...I just need water. Or something to just eat and sober up, I don’t know--Joonie and I can get home fine.”

Seokjin eyes Namjoon warily, who’s wide eyes blink slowly in return. If he could have it his way, they would have been halfway to his unit in the elevator, after being dragged by the ears with his bare, freezing hands. But, alas, he’s too tired for this and he’s not one to impose on...the very one-sided argument that’s about to unfold. 

“Well...I’m just around the corner, so if you ever need anything, give me a call?” Seokjin offers. Exhaustion is catching up with him, and the fact that his bed is minutes away tempts him to start walking.

“I don’t feel good.” Jimin blurts out, eyes glazed over. 

The exhaustion leaves as soon as it comes, and next thing he knows, Namjoon is guiding Jimin off to a side street, to the shrubbery that lines the side walls of the complex. Namjoon assists Jimin as he staggers over before dropping to a squat, hands coming to his temples. Seokjin joins him, rubbing his back. “Do you think you can make it up to my unit, Jiminie?” 

A shake of the head. Nope . 

“I’ll go and um...get you some water, okay? And a snack?” Seokjin suggests, a bit awkwardly as it seems he’s in a completely separate realm from the couple.  He stands up abruptly, and honestly regrets it as his vision blurs--there’s two Jimins and two Namjoons--they disappear as he blinks multiple times.  At this point, he feels like he’s in a completely separate realm period .

Seokjin drags himself around the corner after making sure Jimin hasn’t collapsed, and sees the better-lit main road--he sees his apartment’s front door. He feels around for his phone, thinking to just text Namjoon to come up to his place and crash. 

As he paces, there’s--a smell. An aroma . 

It wafts into his nose, and next thing he knows he’s walking past the front door, following whatever the smell is. Smoky, like something grilled and dripping with rich juices lead him to what used to be a small, little store for lease. 

Seokjin blinks--he swears there were construction workers there for the longest time. His muddled brain recalls late evening and early mornings of drilling, hammering--all permeating through the walls of his unit on the third floor.

Minjeon Yanggochi

“ Lamb skewers? ” Seokjin reads aloud to no one in particular. It’s been a while since he's tasted those, and the fact that he’s neighbors with a restaurant takes a bit to sink in. 

He stands for who-knows-how long, contemplating whether he wants to walk in and kindly try flirting with the new owner for some free post-drinking snacks, or wreak havoc on those responsible for disrupting the hours of his naps. 

“Hello, new neighbors!” Seokjin exclaims. There’s no one at the cash register, and he wonders if they’re closed. He ambles his way to the cash, scrutinizing the place. Not a patron in sight, square wooden dining tables empty and spotless. The floors were impeccably clean, the floorboards matching the grey of the counter. A separation curtain likely leads to the kitchen, yet he hears no signs of life either.Seokjin squints at the glaringly bright menu, grumbling. Were they closed? Or maybe they’re just slacking-- “No one? Really ? I expect more from a product of dust, debris, mass construction, my insomnia --”

“ Coming! ” 

A couple haphazard clanging pot noises later--Seokjin knows this all too well, a master in the kitchen himself--but that’s besides the fact that his apparent cashier is a rather attractive (to say the least) fellow. Long, curly hair tied up in a ponytail thar swishes back and forth, strands falling at the front as he’s bowing deeply and profusely apologizing in a pitched, panicked voice. 

When he finally gets a decent look, he sees stars. Sparkling, big, wide eyes watch him, a monchable nose, and pretty pink petal lips that he captures under his teeth. Adorable, wavy haired boy.

“I’m really sorry again, I’m closing today and it was careless of me to leave the cash unattended--”

“You’re cute.” Seokjin blurts out. Fuck. “Fuck.”

“Oh.”The cashier blinks in surprise, before doing this--this little grin, a bashful one where his teeth peek out while his cheeks are turning the slightest pink. “Um. Thank you, sir, you too? Ah--sorry. What’ll you be getting tonight?”

What is he getting again? Seokjin pauses for a moment--god is he tired . 

Oh, right. “Water.”

“Just water…?” He questions. “Would you like to try some lamb skewers?”

“Ah, trying to use your cuteness to sell me some things, hm?” Seokjin disregards his checks for their signature lamb skewers on the menu, and sees a preset 10 for 10,000 won. “Is this the only option you guys have? Looks like there’s only five in the display.”

“I mean, no. There are options right here.” The cashier pulls out a smaller, paper version of the menu and flips it over, pointing to smaller options. Options for children . Seokjin ignores that, and nods. 

“We actually close in twenty minutes…” The cashier continues. He ponders for a moment in silence. “I can give you a bit of a discount, since...you know, there’s only five.” 

“You wouldn’t --” Seokjin--he’s good at this. Sometimes he thinks he should cut people some slack, but since the guy offered, “ Discount? Are you sure?” 

The cashier nods with a firm smile. “Yeah, we usually don’t like to waste things or give out food that isn’t the freshest. You’ll save a bit, too.”

“I don’t know what I did in my past life to meet such a generous, sweet guy.” Making sure to put some exaggeration in his swooning , Seokjin doesn’t break eye contact, in which he commends himself in, as he feels himself reeling from his movements. 

“An angel you are,” Seokjin sighs, finding some joy in the way the boy preens just a little. He makes sure the cashier isn’t fidgeting out of awkwardness--rather it’s a flustered squirming he’s doing, as his large eyes are finally meeting him after having them trained on the cash register. “I’ll have five, if that’s okay?”

“Of course, I’ll warm up for you.” The boy replies with a chuckle, walking over to the display and picking out the skewers. “You’re very kind yourself, you know. Long night?”

Admittedly, he had not been expecting that. Seokjin smacks a hand on the counter and laughs heartily, face and ears heating up--oh no . “Went out with some friends tonight, that’s all. Getting a snack to sober up, and now it brought me to you. Pleasant way to end my night. And a discount on top of that. I would be floored if the same kind man would grant it for free ,”

The cashier brushes his bangs behind his ear, doing the thing with his lips, halfway to a toothy grin. “You’re very good with your words, huh?” Seokjin catches the way his eyes shine with mirth before he quickly turns around to pull the skewers from the grill, and proceeds to wrap them up. “I’m sorry, I couldn’t. I would, but maybe um. Next time.” 

Next time.

Next time.

“If you insist, it sounds like an invitation to me.” Seokjin hums, thanking him as he hands him the wrapped skewers. He tries not to choke, tries not to lose it at the hint of tattoos when his wrist skin peeks out between the long sleeved sweater and his rubber gloves. “I’m Seokjin, by the way. I see you don’t have a nametag?”

The boy checks his shirt, seemingly surprising himself. “Oh, yeah. I guess I don’t, I just assumed no one else would come in when I started closing up alone. Sorry again.” 

“You must be a new worker, hm?” Seokjin pouts a little. “How could your boss just leave you here, closing up all alone?”

“Thank you, but--” Pretty cashier boy fiddles with one of his earrings, as he says, “I’m the co-owner of this place.” 

Seokjin is either more tipsy than he thought, which is impossible as he is the resident Heavyweight in their friend group--or this guy is joking. 

“I’m not kidding,” He replies, a bit petulantly. 

“Shit--you weren’t supposed to hear that.” Seokjin claps a hand over his mouth. What a mess this has been. “I-I had no idea, that’s amazing, really I’m so sorry to assume,”

“No, it’s okay Seokjin-ssi.” He waves his gloved hands in reassurance, laughter escaping his upturned lips. “Anyways, I’m--”

“ Jin-hyung! ” A rather shrill voice cuts into the space of the diner. 

Seokjin whirls around, to be met with a sheepish Namjoon arm-in-arm with an unpleasant Jimin. “Oh, I just got your food--”

“It’s been twenty minutes out in the cold! We thought you just abandoned us to go to sleep or something!” Jimin scolds, weakly waving his jacket-paw around.

Namjoon adds, in a much calmer tone. “I called you like, four times.”

Well shit. Seokjin glances at his lovely cashier, who frankly looks like he wants to disappear into the ground and away from the three of them. How embarrassing . He isn’t sure who he feels worse for--poor, dehydrated Jimin, or mortified cashier cutie.

Either way, he doesn’t get to decide as Jimin beckons him. He marches over, and physically grabs his hand, tugging hard. “Let’s go home!” 

Seokjin allows himself to get dragged, as he’s neglected his friends long enough. Just as they reach the door, a lightbulb goes off in his head. “Wait, your name--!”

“ Thank you! ” Namjoon announces to the cashier.

Seokjin feels him gently nudging his back, and his view of the lovely stranger is no longer in sight.

Seokjin wakes up alone, sunlight blasting its heat down rather rudely, if you ask him. Mouth and throat dry, eyes crusted with sleep and stomach feeling terribly empty, Seokjin feels like dying . 

“Mornin’ hyung.” A hand comes down on his back, and Seokjin recognizes the voice as--

“Jhhiminiee?” He questions, cheek mushed on his couch cushion. Oh. He isn’t in bed.

“Yes, that is I.” 

“....”

“Come on, hyung, wake up! I wanna sit on the couch and watch TV.” Jimin shakes him a bit more aggressively, and Seokjin grumbles, swatting him away. Jimin acting like an absolute sweetheart is no new feat--he is a sweetheart at times, but the menace knows it and weaponizes it, knowing he’s no weaker than Namjoon to his charms. 

“Fine.” Seokjin begrudgingly pushes himself up, instantly slumping on the backrest, feeling a cool cup of water being eased into his hands. “Mmmm. You guys slept over?”

“Yeah, Joonie-hyung and I took over your bed.” Jimin makes a noise to confirm, clicking through the channels. “We kinda had no choice. I was cold, and my stomach went through some acrobatics because you got distracted while getting water for me.” 

Seokjin sits, listens to Jimin rattle on. Honestly, he’s registering half the things he’s saying, but he takes the 50% to his heart, winding an arm around him in hopes to convey that. 

“Those lamb skewers you got were probably free too...”

“Negative.” Seokjin smacks his lips together, wincing at the unpleasant sensation before sipping on his glass, feeling the cool relief flood down his throat. “Well, I don’t really know.”

His brain sifts through his hazy memory--when he’s tired, he doesn’t recall much. When he’s drunk, which doesn’t happen often, The Kim Seokjin is a resident heavyweight --he also doesn’t recall much. So combining those together--he’s gonna need one business hour to recalibrate with the world. 

“ What, ” 

“You said you wanted food, too.” Is all he can offer, drinking his water. 

Jimin rolls his eyes, leaning into his shoulder anyways. “I bet you were wooing the poor little employee there, huh? Trying to suck another discount out of him?

Ah. Small but mighty Jimin has a knack for being honest, sometimes painfully. It’s something he and Namjoon would either find each other at odds, or thrive with this. Being his fastest, and now close friend since Namjoon introduced them a couple years ago, Jimin calls bullshit like it’s on speed-dial. 

Memories of the night before piece together in Seokjin’s brain, and his mouth hangs open slowly. The cashier, the lamb skewers being heated up, and their pleasant small talk in the cozy shadows of dusk. Realization kicks in. “Do you want lamb skewers for lunch?”

Jimin sits up. “ Oh, so you were! Well? What’s his name? Is he cute? I couldn’t see properly,” 

Questions fly at him left and right, as he untangles from Jimin and rises from the couch with newfound energy. He startles Namjoon awake when he rummages through his clothes for something more presentable than…last night’s clothes. 

“I tried to get it free, I didn’t get his name, he’s alright--” Jimin snorts lies as he says this, but he chooses to ignore it. Selective hearing at it’s finest. He toes on his sneakers, popping a piece of gum from the oh-so-conveniently placed gum packet lying on the dish of his entrance side table, along with the pool of loose change, paper clips, and his stack of mail that has yet to be opened. “And I’ll be getting those lamb skewers, so I’ll see you guys in a few!”

Seokjin takes back all his inhibitions against the construction of the small business. The cashier, the convenience of location--and the skewers weren’t bad themselves. Each one that he bought had been devoured, so he knows to order a little more today. 

Reaching the sidewalk, Seokjin feels strange walking in broad daylight versus yesterday’s scene--senses are alert, and it seems like an entirely different store as he walks in. The smoky, juicy smell hits him again, and it sounds busier. Sunlight pours in the windows, casting brightness on the dining room. 

The couple finishes ordering, and Seokjin’s delighted to see the same attractive, wavy-haired boy clicking away at the cashier. 

“Hi, welcome to--oh,” The boy’s eyes are shining when they meet his, the same way they did last night. His eyebrows raise, and he fixes a tiny smile. “Seokjin-ssi, right? Nice to see you again.”

Seokjin, for a moment, almost goes speechless. And he will not allow this man to see him slipping--so he’s thoroughly pleased when he sees a nametag this time. 

Jungkook with the title Co-owner is pinned on his shirt, with a little frog sticker on the plastic. 

“Jungkook.” He says, satisfied now that he’s got a face to associate to a name. “What a lovely name, for a lovely man, hm?”

‘Jungkook’ seems to light up at the sound of his name, fondly chuckling before shaking his head. “Thank you, so charming as always Seokjin-ssi. What’ll you have today?”

“I’ll take ten skewers,” Seokjin replies easily—in the midst of his scheme to bargain, he recalls he deal Jungkook told him. “Oh...perhaps with a side of your special offer?”

For a moment, Seokjin worries if Jungkook doesn’t remember. Then, he frets over whether he remembered anything properly himself, and everything up until now has been one big hallucination.

“Oh, that.” Jungkook blinks, before nodding slowly as if he’s having an epiphany. “I mean… that was when we were closing,”

Seokjin doesn’t even say anything — Jungkook just stares at him, taking him in and he wonders if there’s some steam coming from the whirring cogs in that pretty head of his. 

“But…I did say, huh?” Jungkook says, seeming to have come to a conclusion. 

“I don’t mean to burden you. I mean, you’ve already been so generous and I know as a responsible boss, you’re just looking out for what’s right.” Seokjin says—and honestly, he feels bad. He wants to call his discount mission off, pay it in full and end it there. 

There are few exceptions to Seokjin’s discount charms, and this boy, Jungkook, might be another. 

For a moment, Jungkook looks around and a visible panic flashes in his eyes when the telltale ring of the restaurant door goes off. More customers were coming, and Seokjin’s progress has gotten nowhere. 

“Um. You wanted ten, right?” His fidgety hands move quickly towards the heated display of sizzling skewers--Seokjin nearly splutters— he did not expect that from him. Whatever he said to him seemed to have Jungkook convinced—once again, he almost feels bad.

But not bad enough, as his near empty wallet sings with joy. “Yes,” He grins. “Please,” He couldn’t believe it.

“Okay, um,” Jungkook is hasty, sliding the display case door a little too hard as he clutches the lamb skewers. He holds it out, cheeks the slightest pink and his big doe eyes looking at anywhere but him. “Here, this is--”

“ What is going on here? ”

Both Seokjin and Jungkook jump on the spot, bag of food dropping onto the counter. 

A man much shorter than Jungkook busts out from the back door, in the middle of tying his apron. Who’s this guy?  

By the looks of him, he would not be the one Seokjin would attempt flirting with. Especially with the way his sharp eyes squints at him, the bag of skewers, and the register which flashes 0. There’s a nametag that says it all, and Seokjin thinks he won’t ever be getting his free meal. 

Min Yoongi, Co-owner.

He’s busted.

“Jungkook?” ‘Yoongi’ inquires, voice softening. 

Jungkook taps rapidly at the cash register, looking at Seokjin apologetically. “Oh, n-nothing hyung. I was just...um, trying to see what options for a grand opening discount we could give to this customer.”

Yoongi hums, looking at Seokjin. “The grand opening discount is 15% off his next order.”

Next time echoes in Seokjin’s head, and he’s got just the idea to dig him and Jungkook out of the hole he’s dug himself. “Oh, well that’s funny you see--I was actually here last night-- fine establishment you have, by the way Min Yoongi-ssi.”

There’s a part inside him that cheers--Yoongi definitely seems taken aback, muttering a thank you and bowing quickly. He decides to continue while he’s vulnerable , “So I’m here for that discount.”

Yoongi looks at him, expression unreadable. Seokjin fidgets as a weird, unspoken wall of tension seems to have fallen between them. He fixes a wide smile, and marches to the cash monitor, changing Jungkook’s discount from - 100%  to 15%.   “Have a nice day,” Is all he says, patting the bag before leaving for the back room again. 

Jungkook is chewing his lip, and Seokjin is already pulling his card out, accepting defeat. For today. “I’m sorry, Seokjin-ssi. I tried,”

“No, I’m sorry. I should’ve known better.” Seokjin says, tapping his card and giving a warm smile. The relief that floods Jungkook’s face is better than any discount, he thinks. There’s always next time. “I appreciate you trying, you’re very good.”

The blush that peppers Jungkook’s cheeks in reaction to his compliments is a lot to unpack--but that’s for later, as his phone is vibrating, probably Jimin waiting on his promised lunch. “Thank you for coming by,” He waves, as Seokjin finally makes way for the line that’s grown behind him. 

When Jimin and Namjoon laugh at his failed attempt to coax a discount out of ‘ cute cashier boy’ , as titled by Jimin despite knowing his name now, Seokjin makes sure to take a bite from each of their skewers when they aren’t looking. 

Don’t get him wrong. Kim Seokjin is not a serial scammer who is set to drain the bank accounts of small businesses with his antics. However, he can’t say the same for large corporations, in which he amps up the flirting game extra, or even avoids it completely. The only times he’s truly stuck is when he’s working at the supermarket--something’s gotta bring the money in, and online coupon codes could only get a man so far. 

A couple things Kim Seokjin is , other than a working man at  Lotte mart’s fresh food section : an aspiring actor, people-person, even more of a dog person, and loves the energy of others when his own becomes too deafening.

Today is one of those days. 

A failed audition, which happens more often than not, unfortunately. He knows, by the looks on the panel’s faces, that they’ve already decided on their options. After all, judging from the anxiety-filled waiting room, Seokjin could see he was up against some talented people. Nonetheless, the aftermath left him taking the late night train to his street with a full stomach and a sad, self-indulgent, celebratory tea in his cold hands. Better luck next time! <3 is what Hoseok, his lovely coworker sends him. He booked today off, just so he could attend. 

Seokjin doesn’t even notice how late it is, until he hears a tiny, distant gasp from down the street. 

“Seokjin-ssi??” 

Before he enters his apartment, he sees none other than Jungkook. He’s scrambling to lock the doors of the restaurant and rattling the handle, ensuring it’s safe before he starts jogging over to him with a grin on his face. At least something went right today. 

“Hey, Jungkook.” Seokjin greets. “Wow, it’s really strange not seeing you in uniform.”

The boy looks ten times bigger and ten times smaller at the same time--he’s drowning in his large, full-length coat and the baggy pants that peek out underneath with his giant platform stompy boots . He’s got a beanie on, hair hidden underneath it, while his mask stays hooked under his chin, causing his cheeks to bunch up as he grins at him. “I exist outside of the restaurant, you know.” He nudges him lightly. “But it’s so late, out with friends again, Seokjin-ssi?”

Instead of answering, Seokjin can’t help but ask his own question-- “How old are you?’

In fairness, Jungkook’s caught by surprise for a moment before replying, “I’m 23.”

He’s...he’s a baby -- “Well, you can call me hyung, if you’d like. I think after I tried to bargain with you twice, that warrants it, no?”

“Hyung.” Jungkook is finding the ground more interesting than his face it seems, but Seokjin figures he looks a bit of a mess himself. “Okay, Seokjin-hyung. Thank you.”

“Of course,” Seokjin smiles. He gestures to the front door, “And to answer you, I was actually just heading home.”

Jungkook’s eyes do that thing , where they are widened--Seokjin notices he pretty much does it in reaction to anything. In awe, under pressure from his chance encounter with Yoongi, or when he’s caught off guard. “I didn’t know you were so close! We’re neighbors ?”

“Yeah, I guess we are, in a way.”Seokjin chuckles. 

“So then...why are you coming home so late?” Jungkook questions, before clasping a hand over his mouth. “Wait. That’s none of my business, I’m sorry you don’t need to answer--” 

Seokjin reassures him with a wave, deciding to take a seat on the rickety bench in front of his door. It groans under the weight of the both of them as Jungkook immediately moves to sit beside him. “It’s okay. I um...I had an audition today.”

He tries not to smile as he hears the bench creak--Jungkook’s sitting up, and it makes him a bit better. About what, he doesn’t really know anymore, but he doesn’t mind. “No way, you act ? That’s so cool!”

“Hey, you’re making it sound so huge,” Seokjin laughs. That reaction isn't new to him, when people think of actor they picture those chiseled handsome princes on daily television, their faces becoming a national staple on billboards and advertising things from skincare to fried chicken. “It was a bigger role than I usually shoot for, so I didn’t make it.”

Jungkook frowns. “Well there must’ve been a mistake. I’m sure you did great,”

Now, it starts to hurt a little. That’s what he thought, too. “Thanks, Jungkook.”

“No, I mean it.” It’s slightly terrifying how persistent Jungkook’s being, and more so how he sees right through him. “You--I think you’d be a great actor. You’re just. Confident. So much better at talking than I am, and-and you’re really handsome.” He shrinks into himself a bit at the last little confession, and they sit in silence, save for his sniffles from the cold.

“It’s hard to believe that sometimes, but hearing that from an equally adorable guy makes it convincing.” Seokjin beams at him, reaching over and pats his knee. “Don’t get me wrong, I’ve had great roles in local plays, and I got to shoot an ad for someone’s thrift shop, once. Though, I guess that one doesn’t count, it just aired on the radio. I work at Lotte mart as my main job, though.” 

Jungkook’s interest is piqued again, as he continues to hype him up--honestly, Seokjin’s surprised they’ve been out here for this long. It’s so strange, how they seem to have created this little bubble, in the quiet of the night illuminated by sepia-toned streetlamps. It’s chilly, and Seokjin knows snow is bound to come in the next week. He wonders if this will happen again. 

“Those are still really good feats, hyung.” Jungkook says. “Great, actually. And...I know you’ll get that break, soon.”

Seokjin closes his eyes, letting the words sink in. The younger one seems to be really positive. He contemplates this question, but it slips out, raw and honest. “How do you know that for sure? You...don’t really know--we’re pretty much strangers.”

“ After you tried to bargain with me twice, I think this warrants an advancement from the stranger status.” Jungkook mocks. Seokjin lets out a loud chortle--he was not expecting that. The younger continues, and Seokjin regrets the wounded look that flashes his features for a moment. “And I don’t need to know you inside out to know someone’s talent. After all...I mean, I don’t act, but I like to sing. One of our employees is into film and art and his taste for things is just amazing.”

“ Alright, alright ,” Seokjin surrenders. “I’ll take your word for it. Lemme wallow in my defeat for tonight, though. I’ll be fine by tomorrow, but I’ll feel better if...you’re comfortable, I can hear you sing. That or I get some free skewers.”

Jungkook snickers, waving his jacket paw around and narrowly missing him. “You know I tried, hyung. Yoongi-hyung is tough with discounts. He might consider it if you warm up to him, that’s all.”

“Yeah, we’ll see about that. I don’t think I have an effect on him.” Seokjin rolls his eyes.

“Well, it worked on me, so.” Jungkook blurts out. 

They stare at each other, puffs of cold air coming in between them, and then the younger abruptly stands up. “I’ll--I’ll see you around, Seokjin-hyung, it’s really late and I better get going. You know, early start tomorrow. Heh,”

Seokjin is unable to control his smiling, cheeks aching at the flustered boy in front of him. “Yeah, get home safely, Jungkook-ah.”

“Bye, hyung!” He shouts, running off. 

As he sits alone on the bench, snow gently starts to trickle down, in the slowest way. It dusts the ground ever so lightly before melting into the cement, some falling on his knees and soaking in the fabric. He hums, knowing he’ll be sleeping good tonight. 

“Huh.” 

Seokjin finds himself inside Minjeon Yanggochi later that month, and he’s surprised to see a new face at the register. A teeny part of him is saddened that it’s not Jungkook--but he’s not complaining. Shifts rotate, people need breaks, and this cashier isn’t so bad himself. He’s a beautiful man--what is it with this restaurant and their ridiculously gorgeous staff?

He does that thing--where people shake their heads and their bangs are immediately cleared from their faces, and he shoots him a friendly grin. “Hi! What’ll you be having today?”

His name tag reads: Taehyung with a little tiger sticker at the edge. 

Seokjin clears his throat, making his way to the counter. “Hi, Taehyung-ssi. I’ll just take um...five, thank you.” 

“Just five?” Taehyung asks, a quirk in his brow. “Not ten?”

Seokjin chuckles, remembering how confusing the menu had been around his first time coming here. “Just five. Funny you mention that, these little menus have a lot more options on there than the big display, one of your owners told me that when I said the same thing.

Taehyung swiftly grabs the skewers from the display, letting them hit the grill while he cashes him out. “Ah, Yoongi-hyung? Or Jungkook?”

“Jungkook,” Seokjin says, fond. 

“Oh, yeah. They’re both great, Jungkook and Yoongi actually in the back.” Taehyung replies. “And I--”

Speak of the devil himself, “What about me?” Jungkook bursts out from behind the curtains, tying the apron around his impeccably tiny waist. Seokjin tries not to choke. “Oh, Seokjin-hyung!”

“Hey,” It’s a tad awkward--at least of Seokjin, it is. Jungkook still looks at him with shining eyes, perhaps twice as much after their little heart-to-heart outside of his apartment. “Didn’t mean to summon you from you break, looks like lovely Taehyung’s got it under control.”

Taehyung bats his eyes at him exaggeratedly--Seokjin likes this guy. “Why, you’re quite lovely yourself--”

“I’ll take it from here, “ Jungkook rushes over to the grill, proceeding to wrap them up. 

“What--I don’t go on break for another ten minutes--”

Jungkook’s back is facing the both of them as he says, “You’ll get an extra long break. Just tell Yoongi-hyung I said so,”

“Um. Okay,” Taehyung agrees, a bit incredulous. “I’ll take it. See you later, handsome guy,” He winks. 

When Jungkook turns around, his cheeks and nose are rosy, forehead shining with the slightest bit of...sweat? His lips are drawn in the cutest pout as he folds the bag, and taps at the screen with a bit of an attitude. If Seokjin didn’t know any better, he could conclude that he’s...petty? Perhaps? 

“Really nice of you to give him that long break,” Seokjin chuckles. “I wish I could do that at my job. Is it just you three working here?”

Jungkook shrugs. “Yeah, it’s no big deal. We’re not the busiest like some chain restaurants, but we manage to stay afloat with us three.”

Seokjin nods. “Sounds like a great time. I wonder if lovely Taehyung would give me a discount the same way you do,” He teases, out of pure mischief. He laughs in the way Jungkook glares at him, tapping again and says, “20% off, take it or leave it.”

“Not my free meal, but close enough.” Seokjin’s shoulders shake with his laughter, melting Jungkook’s petty little facade away. His teeth peek out as he shows the tiniest smile, pushing the skewers towards him. 

“Shush.”

“I’ll get it one day, Jungkookie! One day.”

“ Jeon Jungkook! Are you messing around with that guy again? ”

Seokjin cringes, waving and quickly making his way out at the sound of a rather unpleasant Yoongi.

Once Seokjin’s out of earshot, finally having exited the building, Jungkook yells once the space is void of any customers. “Taehyung hyung! Come out!”

“ What? ” Taehyung peeks out from behind the curtain. “It hasn’t even been five minutes!”

Yoongi follows suit, fixing him with a glare. “Where’s the guy?”

“Gone, hyung.” Jungkook shrugs. “I cashed him out already--and don’t worry, I only gave him 20% off.”

Yoongi groans. “We’re gonna be broke because of that guy, I swear. I love you, Kook. Love seeing you be disgusting with someone or whatever. But that’s coming out of your pocket.”

“I love you too,” Jungkook snickers. Taehyung grumbles, dragging his feet back to the register. 

“ Kicking me out just to go flirt with a guy. Gross,” His words don’t match his expression, in which he’s smirking, wagging his eyebrows and making Jungkook splutter. 

“Whatever, tell him whatever you want,” Jungkook utters out, marching to the backroom. 

“You didn’t deny it!”

“I said whatever! ”

Hoseok busts in the break room that following week, groaning loudly as he shimmies his shoes off. “My feet are killing me hyung, save mee,”

“I have...four minutes and forty three seconds left until my break is over. So no,” Seokjin replies, completely engrossed in selling his fishing goods on Stardew Valley, his latest interest and favourite activity for downtime.

“Fine. I wiped down the station for you, just for you,” Hoseok jabs his side, earning a swat to the hip in return. 

“A sweetheart, you are.” Seokjin deadpans. “Whatever would I do without you?”

“Probably get written up for a dirty station.” Hoseok snickers. “But hey, guess what? You wouldn’t believe the cute guy I saw today.”

This isn’t new to either of them. In the times he and Hoseok would work the same shift, they appreciate from afar some handsome--or beautiful, they don’t discriminate--customers. And while they have different tastes at times, Seokjin cannot deny a person who is appealing to the eyes.

“Well, more like three guys,” Hoseok gushes, when Seokjin just grunts in response. “There’s--there’s this small guy, and he’s so... hot . And I want to throttle him. Or he can throttle me.”

“Hoseok, no.”

“Hoseok, yes, ” He continues. “And beside him were these two tall dudes--one had his hair dyed and he looked. Immaculate. Hair brushed back like woosh woosh but alas, his mask was covering his face. And the third guy--he’s a bit more on the muscular side, he could crush me with those pecs , and his tattoos, ”

Seokjin ends the day on his farm before closing his phone, and takes a good look at Hoseok who’s staring off at who-knows-what, a dreamy look on his face. He’s supposed to be going in right now, so he hopes silently that he gets a view of these men Hoseok speaks of. 

The universe must love him, or hate him--whatever the forces did, but he hears “Hyung?” and nearly drops his knife. 

“Oh, my god--Jungkookie!” Seokjin exclaims, placing the knife down with a shaky hand. “And...Yoongi-ssi! Nice to see you guys.”

If they were the ones Hoseok was talking about…

“Ah, it’s you again. Hi,” Yoongi greets, before occupying himself, looking at the ready-made meals.

Seokjin himself was about to re-stock the kimbap packages until they came. “Looking for anything specific?”

Jungkook holds up a few stacked containers of fresh kkakdugi , and a slip of glossy paper. “Wondering if this coupon applies to these?”

Seokjin chuckles--how the turntables really turn. “I’ll check that for you.” 

He weighs the containers, and slides them back over to Jungkook. He looks at the slip of paper--he’s surprised to see it’s an audition slip, for an upcoming project for an acting gig in a minor daytime drama. Seokjin slides his finger, and sees an additional slip, a phone number --he needs to sit down.

“I can’t take this, Jungkook--” Seokjin protests, but Jungkook’s already waving goodbye, containers cradled in his arm. 

He blinks, watching as he gets further away--and sighs. He’s touched, really--but the rejection still lingers in his mind, and he hopes sweet Jungkook’s efforts won’t be all for vain. Tucking the slip away in his jeans, he gets to prepping the kimbap.

                                                      Unknown Number

Hello?                            Hi?? Who’s this

You tell me. Is this Jungkook, by any chance?                       Yes???

It’s me, Seokjin.

Oh my go d 

                                                                                                                Hi

You seem shocked

Even though u gave ur number to me

  Haha i did, didnt i

Um

???

        Ah. Nothing

                                        Goodnight, hyung :)

Today’s a pretty good day to get some free skewers. He’s also excited to tell Jungkook about the audition slip, and how he got scheduled for a second audition. He wants to dive into the details in person, ecstatic about the panel’s reactions--Jimin, Namjoon, and Hoseok already know, and for the first time in forever, he’s confident . Surely he deserves to see his familiar friend and perhaps five skewers, pro bono.

When Seokjin walks in, charms turned up to the max, he doesn’t expect to see the bane of all his plans, the stopper of all his dreams--

“Jungkook called in sick, today.” 

Seokjin falters. “Oh. Um, I hope he’s okay,” He says, eyes awkwardly going to scan the menu. 

 Yoongi doesn’t comment, eyes staring at him while he feels his ears heat up at how awkward the atmosphere became. He coughs, striding up to the counter. He’s trekked all the way down here on a Sunday , might as well make the trip worth it. 

“Just a mild headache, some sniffles. I told him to take all the time he needed,” Yoongi shrugs. “After all, I’ve got Tae’s hands on deck in the back.”

Seokjin nods. He truly wishes that wherever Jungkook lives, he’s swaddled up and taking care of himself. 

“I thought you’d...you know,” Yoongi murmurs. Seokjin hums in question, urging him to elaborate. “Have his number. Given that you lurk here so much to talk to Jungkook,”

Seokjin rolls his eyes. “First of all, no I just got his number. Yet. Bold of you to assume,” 

Yoongi shrugs, seeming a little flustered.. “Sorry for assuming. He talks about you alot.” It seems the shorter male noticed his bewildered expression, so he coughs to cut the uncomfortable silence.  “Anyways, whatever you’re thinking of getting, you’re paying. No games. I hope you know that.”

Seokjin splutters, arguing he would never try to flirt with him given his first reaction, but it dies down when he sees Yoongi’s eyes shine with mirth for a split second, the tiniest smile playing at his lips. “What would make you come to such a conclusion?”

“I’m literally co-owners with the kid. We’re close, mister ‘ handsome discount prince’ hyung,” Yoongi chuckles, putting up air quotes. If those were actually from Jungkook, Seokjin’s close to combusting.

“Oh, are you smiling , Yoongi-ssi?” Seokjin drawls, grinning as he sidles up to the cash and tries to get a peek. 

Yoongi’s mouth quickly sets itself, but his pink cheeks don’t. “No, I think your eyes need to get checked. Now are you gonna order?”

“I’ll take five.” 

The other male hums, placing them on the grill. They stand awkwardly for a moment--nobody’s coming in to dispel this weird atmosphere, so Seokjin takes it upon himself and coughs. “So, how’s it going?”

“Tired. Jungkook calls in, Tae’s studying.” Yoongi answers curtly. “Your attempts at conversing with me are appreciated, but a little sad.”

“Ah. Nice.” Seokjin adds. “And let me live, I’m trying, Yoongi-ssi.” There’s more silence, save for the sizzling everytime Yoongi rotates the skewers. It feels like it’s being cooked forever. 

He clears his throat again. “So. You and Jungkook. Co-owners, that’s pretty cool.”

Yoongi parrots him, shockingly. The audacity. “ So, you and Jungkook. Boyfriends, that’s pretty coo --”

“Excuse you,” Seokjin’s ears are heating up by the second, and he can barely articulate a sentence. “Those are bold assumptions you’re making, Min Yoongi-ssi!”

“Well you’re either his boyfriend or you’re trying to rob us of our skewers. Or our money. Or both,” The smug expression only worsens it--oh, so he’s like that . Not so scary, scary boss has an unruly, playful side. “Hey, I’m only telling the truth. Being with the kid for a while, you hear everything.”

Seokjin finds himself chatting to the other half of Jungkook’s lamb skewer team. Business is typically faster on Sunday, near the evening as families, couples, singles--all the like prefer this little shop, for a humbling meal. 

Without even intending to, he naturally starts unloading everything. Hoseok’s attraction to all of them, talking about Yoongi’s history with Taehyung--it really warms his heart, how his neighbors are this small, beautiful found-family running such a great business. 

Yoongi is something like a rock--hardened, sturdy, but he reminds him of Namjoon’s cat at the same time. Humorous underneath his stoic demeanor, and always putting his passions first. 

“He’s become like my brother,” Yoongi says about Jungkook. “Soft boy from the country, apparently wasn’t close to his parents. He came all on his own, you know?” 

Seokjin’s mouth is agape--he feels like he shouldn’t be listening to this, but he’ll absorb it like a sponge. This is the most personality and information that he’s getting from Min Yoongi, of all people. “We met while I was just graduating college, at the same time he entered. He and Tae became friends first, though.”

“That’s amazing, Yoongi-ssi.” Seokjin sighs, having pulled up a chair in the past hour. “Can I ask...he told me he likes to sing, what did he take in college?”

Yoongi exhales, thinking for a moment. “Theatre, he took a theatre class. He didn’t get in the music program he wanted the first time, so it was a little hard.”

A moment of silence. “He dropped out halfway through. Um. It was really hard for him financially and in all aspects so...after days and nights of planning, here we are.”

Yoongi pauses again, and confesses, “He’s trying to get into the music program again, so Tae and I are fully supporting his dream. He applied earlier this year, and he should get results soon.”

“Wow...well, I hope he does get in. You know...I took something along those lines in university too, for acting.” Seokjin reflects. 

“Yeah. Jungkook told me you were an actor, should’ve seen how he raved about it.”

Seokjin chuckles sheepishly. “It’s honestly not as big as he makes it sound. After all, he sings , and you...you built this from the ground up.”

“Aw man, don’t start self-loathing here. I’m sure you’re great. Anyone that Jungkook likes, I like.” Yoongi confesses, mouth twitching upwards. “You will never hear me say that again.” 

“You’re really just...a genius, Yoongi-ssi.”

“Don’t forget it.” He jabs a finger on his shoulder. “You treat him right, okay?”

Seokjin raises an eyebrow. “What do you mean--”

“Clearly there’s something going on. But if you do so much as hurt him, lamb skewers aren’t the only thing you won’t get.” Yoongi’s voice drops to a low whisper. 

Is he threatening me?  I think. He looks really good from this angle-

“Looks like we’ve got a party of four ready to spend on some skewers,” Yoongi straightens up, adjusting his apron. “I’ll talk to you some other time. Have a good night, yeah?”

Seokjin is left alone with the fresh air and ruminates Yoongi’s words. Huh . 

With mixed feelings brewing, Seokjin heads up to his apartment unit. 

Jungkookie 

                Hi hyung 

It’s been a while, i hope all is well

Um i wanna ask something

You can say no!! Up to you 

Hey, Jungkookie, sorry for the late reply

What’s up?

    I wanna go out with you this weekend

IF you’re free

I should be ^^ 

OH 

    Cool, ok 

Jimin’s wishes of good luck are looping in his head--and while it mostly consisted of teasing remarks, it’s all he has. He hasn’t been on a date for a long time--well who is he kidding, this could very well be a platonic outing. Between friends. 

Anyways, Seokjin’s waiting by their meeting spot--the rickety old bench in front of the apartment complex. His mind is just drowning in possibilities of what they’d do, why Jungkook even initiated in the first place.

He considers sending the younger a text message, after a good ten minutes of waiting. However, just like any other cliched moment, Jungkook appears at the right time, sounding a bit out of breath, “Sorry I’m late, hyung.”

When Seokjin sees Jungkook, the first thing he notices is:

“Your hair,” He murmurs, not even ashamed at the effects his awe had on the other. 

In all the times he’s barged into the restaurant, he’s never really taken into account how much hair Jungkook had. And frankly, he really, really likes it. 

Seokjin likes the way it falls so effortlessly. His front ends are brushing and curling around his chin, while the back is the slightest bit longer. He likes the way it has the smallest hints of caramel hidden in deep, dark espresso coloured locks. It’s so effortlessly smooth as the wind tosses it gently in its hold. 

Seokjin basks in the way Jungkook is looking at anywhere but him, shyly brushing back a stray lock behind his jewelry studded ear and how his own hands ache to do the same.

Seokjin also admires the attire he’s chosen, a complete contrast from their first little moment out on the bench. His pants are tight , and his long overcoat accentuates his stunning figure. 

The daydreaming is broken when Jungkook whips his phone out, brushing his hair a little more meticulously. “Wh--what? Does I look weird?” He chuckles nervously. “It’s my hair, isn’t it?”

Seokjin is truly baffled--that’s the opposite of his brain’s tiny monologue, but his open mouth couldn’t formulate anything beyond panicked reassurances. 

“I can just...get this out of my face,” He comments self-consciously. As Jungkook searches his wrists for a hair tie, Seokjin beats him to it, lowering his arm. 

“No, you’re--” Seokjin coughs. This feels too reminiscent of the copious reruns of Coffee Prince episodes he’d binge watched with his grandma. “You look really good. Great. Beautiful.”

Seokjin wants to throw himself overboard into the Han River out of humiliation, but a gleeful chuckle ropes his attention all the way back in, not letting him stray for even a second. A pretty smile splits across his blushing features. “Really…? Thank you, hyung.”

“Mmhm.” Seokjin ekes out, tongue tied. He's the first one to turn around and march towards the shops to begin their outing. “Well, we better get going. What do you have planned for us, lovely Jungkookie? Free skewers?”

Jungkook giggles. “Not quite. I don’t know, it’s been a while and last time we were out alone, it was really nice. Plus, I was sick, but you already knew that.”

Before Seokjin could even ask how, Jungkook smirks. “Yoongi-hyung and I are literally co-owners. Very close. You think I wouldn’t know?”

“I guess you’re right.” Seokjin holds his tongue. Do you know that Yoongi exposed your potential feelings to me and it’s been causing me to have a very minor crisis and you look really beautiful tonight and I couldn’t pinpoint it for the longest time but I, too, l--

“But! I did want to go to see the lights at Cheongyecheon,” Jungkook admits. “I didn’t know if you had something else in mind, but I really wanted to go this year because I missed them last time.”

“Oh, I’ve been there a couple years ago,” Seokjin recalls. “So, looks we’re going on a little trip. Lead the way!”

The further they push on, the more people they find themselves getting caught in between. 

Jungkook mumbles about how he underestimated  their trip, seemingly on edge about having to take the train. Not wanting to push, Seokjin suggests taking the bus, where it should be a little less busy. Holding the edge of Seokjin’s sleeve, Jungkook eventually agrees. 

They were nearing downtown. Somehow along the way, in their short bus ride, Jungkook’s hand finds his, intertwining their fingers.

 Seokjin looks at him with a questioning look to which the younger mumbles towards the floor, “So I don’t lose you,”

“You won’t, it’s just us.” 

Seokjin finds himself being the more talkative one in these brighter lit, public areas. Jungkook huddles close to him, never letting go of his hand, even as he waits beside him by a snack kiosk for some fresh hotteok. 

“They look gorgeous from here, Guk.” Seokjin comments, trying to peer over the stone walls. “We gotta go down,”

“We will, hyung. Hopefully there’s room for us to sit,” 

Seokjin takes the hotteok, letting Jungkook take the first bite. He makes a noise of satisfaction, diving in to take one, two, three more bites. “Hey, save some for me you little--”

Jungkook pulls back, covering his mouth and laughing with his entire chest--Seokijn sees how Yoongi rubs off on the boy, and he can’t help the warmth he feels from seeing him unabashedly happy. “Sorry, hyung. Have some,”

They amble their way down the stairs, neither one letting go, not that Seokjin’s complaining , and they both gasp at the display laid out along the stream. 

“Hyung, it’s beautiful!” Jungkook exclaims.

Pretty white halos hang from wires above, giving the illusion of floating in the night sky. Intricate designs of plants and abstract swirls rise above the water, shining shades of pink, yellow, lilac and blue, reflecting beautifully against the ripples from the stream current. Either side of the stream has decorative snowflakes, stars, and more intricate patterns. People are lining up on either side of the river, and even more observe from the upper level of the stream, looking down from railings bedazzled with string lights. 

And. Seokjin keeps this thought to himself, stowing it deep inside his heart--as Jungkook gazes at the light show, Seokjin’s convinced he’s got a galaxy in his eyes. Gentle strobe lights pass by his face every now and again making him glow--

Seokjin brushes the corner of his lip, startling the boy--it kind of worries and excites him how neither of them really back away from each other. “You--you had some crumbs. On your mouth.”

“Ah,” Jungkook brushes over the spot again with his free hand, turning to look ahead again. “Thanks…”

What the fuck, Seokjin. Oh no, it’s getting weird again. Fuck. Every drama does that--this is a scam, I’ve been scammed . Seokjin cries internally as he feels Jungkook’s fingers twitch between his own. 

“There’s a free spot down there, let’s go?”

“Mmhm,” 

Seokjin takes the lead, finding a quaint little elevated area on the edge of the stream where their feet can dangle. For the first time since they’ve gotten here, they let go of each other’s hands, maneuvering their spots beside each other. 

“So? What do you think so far?” Seokjin questions, letting Jungkook munch on their snack as they take in the festivities. 

Jungkook chews, mouth a bit full when he replies, “It’s really amazing, hyung. I wish I’d brought my camera, but the battery wasn’t full.”

“You’re a photographer too?” Seokjin asks in disbelief. “You sing...you take professional photos, what can’t you do?”

“I’m not even a photographer, you’re overreacting. I just like it as a hobby.” Jungkook smiles shyly. “And acting. I can’t act, hyung.”

Seokjin shakes his head, “I’m assuming…”

“Yeah. Yoongi told me.”

“You guys are really lucky to have each other, you know that?” Seokjin muses. “I really do hope you get into the program of your dreams.” 

Jungkook’s eyes are glistening--it seems he’s struck a chord, but Jungkook closes his eyes before he could look any further into the constellations he holds. “That means the world to me, hyung. I hope so, too.” 

“You’re really humble,” Seokjin snickers. “You have to show me your work when you can.”

“You actually want to see my photos?” Jungkook blinks at him, as if he’s grown a second nose or something. Did he overstep his boundaries?

“If you don’t want to, that’s fine-”

And Jungkook lets out this mixture between a relieved laugh, perhaps a cry and a liberating exhale, “No, I’d love to show it to you. No one’s really interested in anything I do, other than Yoongi-hyung, and Tae-hyung,” He shrinks in on himself again, taking another bite of the hotteok. 

“Well you could say I’m not just anyone, Guk.” Seokjin leans back on his hands, swinging his legs. “And I have yet to hear you sing to me,”

Jungkook hides his face behind his hands. “Not...not in public,”

Seokjin runs a hand up his back, patting him. “Not in public. Got it.”

“But you hyung...did you end up contacting the agency I told you about?”

“You mean the slip you forced onto me? While I was trying to make kimbap?” Seokjin jokes, earning a light swat to the knee. 

“ Yes ,” Jungkook says petulantly, with his lower lip jutting out. 

Seokjin sits up. “You can’t get mad--but I went to their first rounds of auditions--and I got in! I got contacted for a second run! It’s gonna happen in a couple weeks. I meant to tell you in person, but--hey, I said you can’t get mad!”

Jungkook’s full on pouting now, and the poor hotteok is going to crumble if he holds it any tighter. “ Why didn’t you tell me? ”

“You were sick that day!” Seokjin argues. “I wanted it to be a bit special, but then I was busy with work and I’d be so tired--honestly it slipped my mind.”

“You’re mean.”

“I told you, didn’t I?!”

Jungkook tugs on him, pulling him into a bone-crushing hug. Oh . He’s strong. Seokjin can smell the faint scent of cherry blossom detergent--Jimin used that same brand for the longest time, until Namjoon made the switch to a different one. For once, he feels smaller than the younger male, and he sinks into his embrace. “I’m really happy for you, hyung.”

“Ah, Jungkook. What’ll I do with you,” Seokjin sighs, nuzzling his shoulder. 

“You’ll come find me in person--if I’m in the hospital for fuck’s sake, I want to know these things,” Jungkook whispers. 

“You’re going to have to tell me where you live first--for all I know, you live under the grill at Minjeon ,” Seokjin teases.

Jungkook pulls back, pushing strands of hair from his face and behind his pierced ears. “Deal.”

They continue to sit, in amiable silence. It’s a bit funny, how their hands find their way back to each other when they proceed to leave, how they swing their arms on their way to the bus stop. It’s hilarious how they’re bumping shoulders while they wait, and it has to be a joke of the century when their bus is barely full. 

They snatch a spot in the back, tired to the bone, stomachs content, hearts pounding. A couple of girlfriends and a mother and her daughter make their way in, sitting closer to the front. 

As the bus starts to drive away from the shining, blinding lights of dead-center Seoul, he hears a faint sound. Jungkook’s leaning into him ever so slightly, singing to himself as he’s gazing out the window. Seokjin smiles to himself as Jungkook takes his hand and brings it to his lap, clasping both his hands over his gloved ones. 

Jungkook’s voice is as beautiful as he is, airy and light and so unique, each breath, note and sound full of an unspoken emotion. It’s a tune he’s heard before, a forlorn melody. 

whenever i'd get tired of life 

i'll call you up 

you'd just listen to me cry for hours

He carries the low toned song, looping it over and over under his breath, only for himself and Seokjin to hear. 

Seokjin nearly falls asleep, until the bus jolts to a halt, and Jungkook’s shaking Seokjin. “I’m here.”

“Ah...wait, this is my stop too.” 

As the pair get off the bus, Jungkook walks opposite of where Seokjin would walk, and turns a corner to another one of the smaller apartment buildings in the area. 

“You’re this close?” Seokjin exclaims. “You’re a fifteen minute walk away from my place!”

Jungkook is a bit sheepish, scratching behind his neck. “It’s closer than I thought, wow. I’m not that good at depth perception, or whatever that’s called.” He turns and points upwards. “Yoongi-hyung, Tae-hyung and I share a unit on the third floor, so if you ever want to um...visit, just let me know and I’ll always open the door.”

Seokjin hums. “Not Yoongi. He’d slam the door in my face.”

Jungkook bursts out laughing, making weak motions to hit him. “Yoongi-hyung’s not like that, jeez. I’d make him open it, he can’t say no to me.”

“I can imagine.” Seokjin catches his breath after his own fit of chortles. 

There’s cues in the air for Seokjin to see Jungkook off, and head home. But under the streetlights and having him gaze at him expectantly, with those doe eyes of his-- god, Jimin and Hoseok would roast the fuck out of him right now --he does what they’re both thinking. 

Closing the space between them, Seokjin can see the way Jungkook freezes in a way that is comfortable--willing Seokjin to break that ice, finally. “Is this okay?”

“Yeah--yeah this is good,” Jungkook breathes out, eyes blown wide, 

He doesn’t know what possesses him. It feels like he’s having an out-of-body experience when he brushes his nose against Jungkook’s, feeling the warmth of each other’s exhales, before pressing his lips against the younger’s soft ones. His heart is falling out of his ass, he feels like he could fall from the sky--there’s a typhoon of mixed emotions threatening to spill, and Seokjin wonders if this is the right thing.

They stand there, Jungkook’s hands coming up to grip Seokjin’s sleeves, as his own hands are holding his hips ever-so-lightly. 

Jungkook moves a bit, pursing his lips and moving it against his, readjusting and pressing deeper, with more confidence. Jungkook gives the tiniest mewl as he pushes up against his body. He can sense the air that Jungkook breathes on the side of his cheek. They’re separating, before coming together again, pulling apart only to latch on again, softly kissing under the moonlight.

Seokjin’s hand trails up, brushing Jungkook’s long hair--he groans a little, feeling the shaved hair underneath it all--he’s got an undercut , for fuck’s sake. He’s doing his best not to pass out right then and there. 

It’s Jungkook who takes the last smooch, looking dazed and stunning with his reddened mouth and flaming cheeks. “Oh my god.”

You’re beautiful.

So pretty. 

I feel like I’ve known you forever and it’s embarrassing, but I think I like you?  

I don’t know what I feel.

“Hyung--”

“You should...you should go in, now.” Seokjin blurts out. His lips are tingling, his mind is reeling, and he doesn’t know how to deal.

Internally, he’s dying. He wants to go back to Cheongyecheon and let the stream carry him away to the ocean. 

“Yeah…” Jungkook bites his lip, slowly letting go. 

Seokjin perks up, and they watch each other, but unlike moments before, the atmosphere is foggy, and Seokjin isn’t sure if it’s because of his words. 

“...never mind.” Jungkook murmurs. “I’ll see you, okay? Thanks for today.” 

Before Seokjin could eke out another word, Jungkook turns away and heads inside without looking back. 

If Jimin could see him now--he’d never hear the end of it. 

“You’re never gonna hear the end of this until you fix it! ” Jimin scolds. 

“Can you not yell, ” Seokjin groans. 

“I’ll yell!” Jimin exclaims. Namjoon, however, successfully controls the man’s volume as he places a hand on his shoulder, murmuring sweet nothings to him. “Fine...I’ll talk aggressively.”

“Thanks.” He deadpans. 

“I’d be livid if I were him, just saying.” Jimin explains. “You kiss him, it’s amazing, and instead of telling him about your internal conflict you tell him to go home ? And you proceed to ghost him for two weeks ?”

“Well, more like avoiding--” 

“He’s hot and he likes you, you’re hot and you like him! Two plus two equals four!”

Namjoon sips his matcha latte, looking solemn. “He’s got a point.”

Seokjin cries. “He’s always got a point to you, Joonie.”

“I’m right here ,” Jimin points to himself, unimpressed. “Look, hyung. Even if you feel you guys haven’t known each other long enough--what, it’s been almost two months now? I’ve been happy hearing you talk about your acting opportunities, but I’m also elated to hear that you have someone new to share it with.”

Sometimes, Seokjin wonders why they always manage to barge into his apartment. Oh yeah, because Namjoon used to room with him until he moved in with Jimin. While he loves and appreciates their presence, he isn’t sure if what they’re saying makes him feel better or worse. 

“I just...he sounds like he’s an amazing person with so much potential, he doesn’t deserve to just--be with someone who didn’t feel the sparks fly from the very beginning. Fucks sake Jimin, I’m constantly trying to get free skewers from him, I’m terrible ,”

The downward spiral begins, and having all his insecurities laid out in front of him on a Saturday morning isn’t what he planned for his weekend. Jungkook deserves better, plain and simple. 

“You are,” Jimin says softly, holding his hand.

 Seokjin starts to protest, but is shushed by a tiny index finger to the lips. “But you’re our terrible, hard-working hyung with the biggest heart. And you’re even more terrible for not giving this a shot. If it doesn’t work out, then it doesn’t. But you, and I, and maybe Namjoon know damn well you’re thinking otherwise.”

“...”

“Don’t dot-dot-dot me, trust your feelings, for once,” Jimin pleads. 

Seokjin sighs, a long burden-filled one. Who would’ve known, that pretty, tattooed lamb-skewer cashier could worm his way into his slightly high-blood-pressure heart? 

“Okay, but--”

BANG BANG BANG 

The three of them freeze. 

“Are you expecting anyone?” Namjoon asks, too afraid to stand up. 

The banging persists and Seokjin inches his way to the door. His heart drops when he looks through the peephole. 

“Jungkook?” Seokjin breathes out--the boy is not pleased at all--who is these days? Hoseok is, Hoseok never disappoints. He should’ve invited him, too.

“I got in.” Is all he says, face etched into a deep frown, eyebrows drawn. 

“What?”

“I got in, hyung.” 

Seokjin narrows his eyes. Jimin and Namjoon are shuffling about in the back, and by the telltale click of the bedroom door, he knows he’s alone for this one. “I-I’m sorry, I don’t--”

“I got into the program I wanted hyung, for next September.” He says slowly, stepping forward.  “And I wanted to tell you in person soon but you never came to the restaurant because you were too busy AVOIDING me! ” Jungkook shouts, and Seokjin’s jumps in surprise. 

He realizes--the boy’s still in his apron, with a haphazardly thrown jacket and in his hands are a torn open envelope and some papers. 

With a little more force than necessary, Jungkook more or less swings the papers at him, and Seokjin manages to avoid a paper cut and instead catches his arm, looking at the official document. “Holy shit, you really did it, huh.”

Jungkook sniffles. “I did, and you weren’t answering your phone, and whenever you passed by the restaurant but didn’t come in, I--” His face crumples, skin turning ruddy as tears threaten to flood.

Seokjin feels himself panic at the blubbering hot mess that is Jungkook--he isn’t sure if he should let him inside, or handle this outside--

“ Hug me, goddamnit! ”

“Okay, okay--” Seokjin gingerly moves to hug him, but Jungkook barrels into his arms, papers fluttering to the floor. He feels warm again, but more so undeserving of this. Why is he here? Even though he can barely get his shit together, he knows Jungkook deserves this much. “I’m sorry.”

“Good,” Jungkook whines, heaving a bit. 

“I really am, Jungkook. God, I don’t know why I acted the way that I did,” Seokjin sighs, feeling the heat prickle at his own eyes. “I felt really shitty in general, and thought…” He chokes, trying to control his voice from wavering too much. “I was just some bargaining, reject-actor who couldn’t recognize my feelings, even if they were right in front of me.”

“Shut up.” Jungkook sobs. “Just--stop. What you did was--was shitty, but you are never unworthy of anyone, you hear me?”

Seokjin bites his lip, wiping at his eyes. “Okay, okay. I’m sorry,”

“And that includes me,” Jungkook steps back, red-rimmed eyes boring into his. “I fucking like you, hyung. I like you so much, it hurts.”

“Fuck,” Seokjin’s at the edge. The storm inside him is tossing his thoughts left and right, and he decides to let himself fall. He lets out a laugh, squishing Jungkook’s cheeks together. “I like you too, Guk. I like you, too.”

“Come here, you menace,” Jungkook gives a watery giggle before closing the distance between them, kissing in all their tear-stained, snivelling glory.

“I’m so, so proud of you.” He praises, feeling Jungkook smile against his skin.

As they pull away, Seokjin hears stomping from down the hallway. 

“ Kim Seokjin I am hearing CRYING noises and I swear to god, if I get there-- ” 

Yoongi halts at the doorway, seeing them wrapped up in each other--he unclenches his fists and straightens himself. “Um. It seems I’ve misunderstood.”

Jungkook bites his lip. “Ah. Don’t worry hyung. We’re all good here thank you.” 

“Sorry, I’ll wait at the emergency exit. Sorry.”

They watch as the shorter male walks away resolutely, and Jungkook is barely holding his laughter in. 

Seokjin complains--all the reins are loose now. “ Really, you brought Yoongi in too?”

“Well, he invited himself.” Jungkook sing-songed, peals of his suppressed laughter escaping as Seokjin dives for his neck. “ Hey! I was hurt, okay? I was scared you were gonna reject me again.”

Seokjin sighs, after he stops fussing about. The pain that Jungkook’s eyes held--he hopes he’s never the cause of that again. 

They stand there, hugging it out in the doorway of his messy apartment unit, Jungkook’s path for the future on the floor as Seokjin’s is soon to begin. 

“I won’t ever do that again. I promise you.”

“ Guys, that’s really sweet. ” A muffled noise from behind the door speaks. “ But can we come out now ?”

Jungkook blushes. “I forgot you had company yourself,” 

“Ah, don’t mind them. Might as well acquaint you guys properly while we’re here.” 

Jungkook fusses in his arms again, pouting. “While we look like this? Hell no.”

“Come out guys!” Seokjin calls. 

He turns to his new boyfriend, brushing the last remnants of tears away. “Looking like what? You’re very beautiful to me.”

The younger melts, and weak-kneed as he is whisked away to converse with Jimin and Namjoon.

 Not once did he let Seokjin go. 

Seokijn’s running, running, sprinting faster than he ever did to Jungkook, who’s waiting in the foyer for him. The lobby staff are holding in their smiles, while wannabe actors, scouts and agents are walking around and about with their professional attire, and sleek black briefcases.

His boyfriend sticks out like a sore thumb and looks absolutely adorable--he’s gotten his undercut touched up, and his longer sections of hair had been neatly tied up in a bun. 

There’s no words spoken between them, only gleeful, ecstatic shouts of joy as he jumps into Jungkook’s arms. 

“The part, I got the part!” Seokjin cheers. 

Jungkook is just as happy--ever since he’d gotten a successful second round audition a few weeks back, they called him to the company building with a script and a smile waiting for him. While it isn't a national tier drama, it’s a start. Seokjin’s overjoyed to be on TV, to be a face and play a character that he hopes people will love.

“I’m so proud of you, Jin-hyung!” Jungkook sounds breathless after lifting his boyfriend off the ground and spinning him like a damn carousel. “I knew you could do it. I knew it.”

Seokjin manages to give him a chaste kiss--he can’t stop grinning, beaming from ear-to-ear. “And thank you for believing in me. You’re amazing.”

“I know.” Jungkook boasts, giggling at Seokjin’s fond eye-roll. “Oh! And I brought you something to celebrate with,” 

Seokjin watches as Jungkook jogs over to where he was sitting, and comes back with a wrapped bag of none other than Minjeon’s lamb skewers. “One order of lamb skewers for actor Kim Seokjin. Free,” Jungkook winks.

Free fucking lambs skewers. This little shit. 

“I hate you,” Seokjin is keeling over from laughing, and Jungkook is taking his hands, leading him to the door. “I really hate you,”

“Nope you looove me,” Jungkook sings. The chilly air surrounds them both, but the food is still sizzling hot and Seokjin can feel it as Jungkook pushes them into his hands. “You love me, and I love you, so I finally give you free lamb skewers. Grilled ‘em myself.”

“You’re not wrong.” Seokjin relents, kissing his cheek. “This is hilarious, and amazing. You do know I’m not trying to mooch off of you, right?”

It’s Jungkook’s turn to roll his eyes, as he digs in and steals a skewer for himself. “ Duh , hyung. But how does it feel, after trying so long, the notorious flirt gets his free food?”

Seokjin shakes his head, taking a bite that Jungkook feeds him. “Jimin’s talking too much shit, I swear I haven’t done that in months.”

“Now that you have me, right?” Jungkook teases, lacing their hands together. 

“Everything’s just better with you, Guk.” Seokjin says shamelessly. “That includes me trying to bargain with people less frequently. Especially you.”

Jungkook bumps his hip against his. “If you bargain at a bar and I’m not the one receiving it with you, we’re gonna be in trouble.” He snickers. “And if you want anything from me, all you have to do is ask.”

“Okay, bun.” Seokjin replies--he’s testing out the new pet names, and frankly, the profound effect it has on Jungkook is a wonder of the world in itself. How a man can get so flustered from a name is truly beyond him. “Your place for celebrations? Or mine?”

“Yours,” Jungkook declares. “No roommates...and a bigger bed.” He smirks salaciously.

Seokjin tries not to outright groan in public. He leans in to peck his skewer-juice-stained lips, before speeding up their pace. “What are we waiting for?”

Lying in bed, Jungkook feels the bed dip as Seokjin climbs in with him. The mattress dips, and he giggles as the older male burrows his way in, adjusting so he can have Jungkook rest his head on his chest. “Tickles.”

“Good,” Seokjin replies, making no sense but chuckles anyways. 

Jungkook’s heart swells at the photo on his bedside table--he turns and wraps an arm around him. Blinking, he smiles against Seokjin’s skin--it’s a photo of them re-visiting the lights, taken by Jungkook’s camera. 

“What are you thinking about?” Seokjin asks, brushing through his locks. 

“You.”

“Ew,”

“Mmmhm. You in all your shirtless, sweaty glory,” Jungkook pinches a nipple, causing Seokjin to yelp and swat his back. “I’m looking at our photo,”

“Ah, that. You have a talent Jungkook.” 

“Hard being talented, and dating someone who is also talented,” Jungkook says smugly, closing his eyes. “Talented at bargaining for skewers and taking my heart with it. The audacity.”

Seokjin laughs, the sound reverberating directly into his ear. Jungkook hopes to hear it in his dreams. “You gotta deal with it now, lovely bun.”

“Mmmhm. Sleep.”

“Okay, sleep. Should I set an alarm for dinner?”

“...nah,”

“Okay.”

Just a his senses are succumbing to sleep, Jungkook hears Seokjin speak. 

“Guk?”

“Hmmhm…”

“I love you.”

Jungkook smiles, tightening his hold around Seokjin--things are looking up from here. 

“I love you too.”

15 minutes west…  

“I can’t believe they got together because Jin-hyung was that good at bargaining. Is that even attractive?” Yoongi grumbles, ignoring the way Taehyung laughs at him. 

Hoseok rolls over, joining Taehyung in laughter. “Jin-hyung has his ways, trust me.”

“I trust you, Hobi-yah.” Yoongi sighs, sinking down from the headboard and allowing himself to be held by his two very attractive boyfriends. “But if he pulls a stunt like that again...it’s over for them.”

Taehyung shushes him. “They are very much fine, and in love. Though, I already know I’ll be seeing Seokjin-hyung’s face more often.”

Hoseok laughs, leaning over to kiss the both of them, feeling fatigued. “That’s not necessarily a bad thing, now is it?”

“Well--” Yoongi pauses. “No. If they’re happy, I’m happy,”

“Great.” Taehyung exhales, throwing a leg over the two of them, sandwiching Yoongi even more. “You’re happy, I’m happy, we’re all happy. Sleep?”

“Sleep,” Hoseok agrees.