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(art by @0901BTSmg on twitter)
Jungkook stepped out of the charter bus with his teammates following right behind.
“Make sure you have everything you need. The managers have pain killers and will show you where the athletic trainers are. The game begins in two hours so do not wander off for too long. You have an hour to check out the way the other teams play, as they will be our competition in future games.” Coach James then walked towards Jungkook, who only seemed to have his eyes focused on the other charter bus that had just pulled into the parking lot.
The name Black Vipers printed in bold letters on both sides of the bus.
Jungkook could feel the rapid beating in his chest, realizing that this was it. This was the moment he had been waiting for. He watched as one by one, the team members of Vipers hopped off the bus. He recognizes Min Yoongi, the team’s starting libero and one of the top 5 best in the country. Admired for his rapid reflexes and solid defense, it’s very hard to score if the ball is ever aimed around his area. But Jungkook doesn’t worry too much about that, having one of the top liberos in his own team as well. He watches as almost all players get off the bus, a frown forming on his face.
That is, until he sees him.
Jungkook watched as the man rotated his head, hand coming up to rub at his neck with each step down the stairs full of confidence and elegance. He notices the wind blow through his new platinum-white hair color that made his sun kissed skin stand out more than usual while rocking the team's black and green sweatsuit. If anyone saw him and didn’t already know who he was in the volleyball world, they would automatically mistake him as a model. With the height and body proportions he had going for himself aside from the fact that he had a godly sculptured face, Jungkook wouldn’t be surprised. He watches as his libero Yoongi nudges him, bringing out the dimpled smile he had come to know after so many years. The man ruffles his hair before looking up towards the bus opposite to him. And in a second, his eyes find Jungkook’s.
For a moment, it feels like time stops and it’s just the two of them back to being the young foolish highschoolers they used to be four years ago.
It’s the first time Jungkook will be stepping on the court without him on his side. The one who he spent most of his high school playing together with and not against. The one who he hated with all of him when he first transferred to the school because of his cocky know-it-all attitude. The man who managed to land himself King of the court by the time he entered the university that he played for today. His name being that of the top three best setters in the country at the age of 22.
The him being Kim Namjoon, also known as Jungkook’s big fat totally not homosexual bro crush and long time best friend. Jungkook missed him.
Namjoon smiles at Jungkook, sending a wink towards his direction and Jungkook wants to die on the spot. He could feel the blush forming on his face and thankfully, Namjoon was too far to notice.
“Jungkook.”
At the call of his name, Jungkook turns around and comes face to face with his Coach who has his arms crossed across his chest, displaying his usual unamused face when Jungkook does something that he’s just so used to seeing. “Yes, coach?” Jungkook smiles innocently.
“Nice of you to finally hear me. Been trying to get your attention for the last five minutes.” Coach sighs. “Your teammates already went ahead, except for Jimin, who decided to wait for you.” James points behind him to the boy laying against the bus, bag on the floor next to him and a wide grin on his face. “Should be happy you have great friends kid. Now hurry along.”
Jungkook nods, grabbing his bag and meeting Jimin who also picks up his bag and throws it on his back. Jungkook shakes his head. “Shut up, don’t say anything. I already know what you’re thinking.”
Jimin chuckles. “When are you going to ask him out, Jeon. It’s been three fucking years. You’re not getting any younger you know.”
“I know that already. It’s just not that easy.” Jungkook answers, tilting his head in what seemed to be defeat already. “I don’t even know if he feels the same way.”
Jimin tsks. “Don’t say that shit. I was the first to notice your obvious crush back in high school, before the others did. Trust me when I tell you that he likes you, too.”
Jungkook suddenly stops right before they reach the entrance to the arena. Jimin turns to look at him, wondering why he had suddenly decided to stop walking. Jungkook looks at him with the same hopeful eyes he had on the day he arrived at tryouts, four years ago in high school. The hint of fear was evident in his eyes but the glint of determination also shined through. If he had just one chance to give it his all, then it was enough to overcome whatever doubt he had within him, because that’s who Jungkook was.
Jimin looks at him completely endeared, remembering the Jungkook from back then and realizing that he never left, he just grew up. “What’s wrong baby?”
“What if he doesn’t, hyung?” Jungkook asked with a shaky voice. “What if he doesn’t like me like you say he does?”
Jimin comes closer to the younger, yet much taller boy. Who knew he would grow this much throughout the years. “Then you can beat me up.” Jimin jokes, but when Jungkook doesn’t laugh along with him, he cups his cheek. “If he doesn’t like you back, kookie. It’s his loss, but your answer to finally move on. You deserve to be loved the same way you love him.”
Jungkook turned around, spotting Namjoon with his teammates on his way towards the entrance. They were laughing at something Namjoon had said and Jungkook realizes how much they both changed from the young 14 and 16 year olds they used to be. Namjoon was now surrounded by not only teammates that he could play with on the court, but by people he was able to get to know and come to trust outside the game.
Loving Namjoon all these years had been such a learning experience. The pain, laughters, and disagreements that came along with their friendship had been something Jungkook would never change for anything in this world and instead, always held close to his heart. But Jimin’s right. He isn’t getting younger and if there's any possibility that the man he’s loved since he was 15 could love him back, then he’s willing to bet on that small chance.
Like Namjoon once said to him. We lose all the chances we never take. And hell, if Jungkook gets rejected, then with a heavy broken heart he’ll get the chance to move on and one day look back and say he had the opportunity to fall in love with a man named Kim Namjoon.
Jimin puts his hand on Jungkook’s shoulder, giving it a gentle squeeze. “Jungkook-ah, let’s go. We have a tournament to win.”
The minute Jungkook and Jimin walk inside the gymnasium, they’re greeted by the loud cheers erupting from the crowd. There were around three gyms in the arena. One day one, the first two Gyms had four volleyball courts set up, each court containing its own pool play. Depending on the amount of teams that join the tournament indicates the amount of teams per court per pool. The top team of the pool whether undefeated or with the most points, automatically advance to the next round of pool, whereas the losers would play against each other and determine their place in the tournament overall. The results of each game placed you in a position based on the bracket. In this tournament, there were five brackets. Gold, silver, bronze, P1, and P2. Some never even made it out of the first pool.
The goal of the tournament? To make it to finals, which meant winning as many games as possible and not falling in any place that wasn’t gold.
There were three medals awarded for the top three teams of the tournament and Jungkook, of course, wanted gold. But so did everyone else.
It was day two of the tournament, Jungkook’s team came out victorious in their pool which sent them automatically to the gold bracket. The tournament lasted almost a week but the Gold and silver bracket usually played the day after compared to the other brackets, which took a lot longer since it had more teams. Once in your bracket, your ranking went by the results of each game. The chances of winning a medal once you lost in the gold bracket was very rare, since the two losing teams of the semi finals would play against each other for the third place medal. Volleyball tournament rankings were indeed very complicated, which is why Jungkook wanted to just simply win. You don’t need to confuse yourself if you're undefeated. Still, people gave it their all for the ranking placements, medal or not.
Jungkook made his way towards his team who were currently watching a match from the silver bracket between two west coast teams. Jungkook recognizes them from a friendly match he had played with against them a few weeks ago. It seemed that the silver bracket began playing earlier than gold, but Jungkook was not complaining. He liked his sleep.
There were only eight teams that made it straight to Gold brackets and only two remained undefeated while the other teams either had one loss, or made it to Gold by points alone. Jungkook’s team, the Golden Eagles were one of them and of course, surprise to none, Black Vipers was the other. In other words, Namjoon’s team.
Everyone knew Namjoon’s team would automatically make it to finals. They had some of the best players in the country playing in just one team. Middle blocker Choi Soobin and outside hitter Hueningkai were two of them, not to mention the other members who all stood out for their own individual contribution. Black Vipers weren’t called Vipers for no reason. They were literally a force to be reckoned with. Once that whistle blew, each player moved as fluid as a snake, poised and carefully calculating before attacking venomously at their prey. The prey being the opposite team. It’s what to be expected of the ranked number one seated university team for division one volleyball in not only their region but also nationally. Many even expected a few of the players to go pro after graduation, especially Namjoon.
Now, money was being betted on who would be the second team in the finals. Jungkook’s team was definitely a popular choice since they were already ranked in the top five nationally of the NCAA division one and number one in their region. But that was all before Jungkook joined the team and took many people by surprise. Usually, most of the starting team in division one, tended to be sophomores and up, with some freshmans getting switched in to gewhen a starting player was tired. A freshman joining the starting team for every game and staying there for the whole game was not a usual thing. It wasn't impossible, but it was rare. Not even Choi Soobin and Huening Kai, who were one of the best players in their position, started every game. It was always switched between them and another two seniors, although everyone knows that once those seniors were gone, they would remain permanently on the court.
Jungkook was one of the few rare starting freshmans in their division, along with the second one from his team, since he joined at the same time as Jimin. This would be one of the first national tournaments both freshmans would play since high school and many of the spectators were here to watch what could possibly be the greatest game if the Vipers went against the Eagles.
The main reason being, the players in it.
Kim Namjoon, Min Yoongi, Jeon Jungkook, Park Jimin, Choi Soobin, and Hueingkai were all part of the same team in high school known as the Bangtan Boys. Although Bangtan boys began to rise in popularity during Junkook’s sophomore year, his freshman year in high school will always be one to remember, not only for the many tears and lessons he learned, but because that was when the original Bangtan boys were all together. Yoongi was a senior when Jungkook was a freshman, so he was only able to play on the same team with him for one year before Yoongi graduated. But he will never forget his other hyungs that shaped him to be not only the player he is now, but the person outside the game too.
“Let’s sit here and watch this game. We need to get our head in the game since the gold bracket is up next” Jimin suggested, placing down his bag as he sat down on the floor. Jungkook followed suit, throwing himself on the floor next to him. They had roughly around an hour before they needed to warm up for their game.
The teams in front of them get in position, the ref checking to see if both teams were ready. On cue, the ref blows his whistle signaling the initial of the game. The server for the orange team rotates the ball in his hand, taking in a deep breath before throwing the ball in the air and making his approach. A jump serve.
In one swift motion, the libero on the yellow team intercepts the ball, passing it towards the setter. Jungkook sees the way the setter is turned, facing his outside hitter, the blue team already moving for the outside player that was already positioning himself to attack, but then Jungkook sees it.
“Middle.” Jungkook whispers to himself.
And just like Jungkook had said, in a quick back swift motion, the setter pushes the ball slightly back where his middle was ready. First point for the yellow team and the crowd cheers. Jungkook already knew who would win this match.
“Dude how do you do that?” Jimin questioned. “I’m pretty good at reading the hitters hand and positioning myself around the block, but you? You know where the setter will go before anyone does. It’s like you can see the play before it’s even played.”
Jungkook just chuckles. “Well, some people are easier to read than others, because they give themselves away, but.” Jungkook pauses for a moment. “There’s one person I could never seem to read.”
Just like Jungkook had said, the winner of the match was the yellow team who had flown in from San Francisco. The ending of the Silver’s game meant the start of the Gold Bracket.
Jungkook began to stretch for his game which would be in half an hour. He watches as his coach approaches them, marker board in hand. “Alright, as you all know, our first game is against Crimson Tide. They’re a team from Alabama with a solid defense, but not so good offense. Whoever wins this match will play against the winner of game two in the semi finals, and as we all know the winner of that proceeds to the finals.” Coach James looks at every single player, but his gaze stays longer on Jungkook as he continues his speech. “I’ve seen how hard you guys work at practice. I see all the potential within you, but it is now time for you to show what you have to give on this court. You as a team, will decide whether you make it to finals, hell, you’ll decide whether you make it past this round. So let me ask you, do you know what you want out of this tournament?”
The team replies in unison. “Yes!”
“I don’t think you guys understood what I just said. What do you want?” Coach shouted, finally looking away from Jungkook and to the rest of the team.
“To win!” Jungkook shouted back with his team, the fire in his stomach growing as his hands itched to be on that court.
“That’s what I’m talking about!” Coach cheered. “Now, I watched this team play yesterday and so I have written a few plays that would be most effective in the game. Depending on the situation, you can switch it up.”
Jungkook goes back to stretching, still listening to what his coach was saying. The nerves within him start to get worse, so he decides to excuse himself to the bathroom.
“Hurry up, we warm up in ten minutes.”
Jimin looked at him slightly worried. “You okay? Want me to go with you?” Jungkook just shook his head and made his way out of the gym looking for the bathroom.
When he finally found the stalls, he noticed he was alone. He stood in front of one of the sinks, opening the faucet and splashing himself in the face. He lifted his head and stared at himself in the mirror. “You can do this Jungkook. You’ve done this so many times. You have to win.”
He hears a low chuckle coming from the entrance of the bathroom. Someone must have come inside while he was splashing his face, so he turns and he freezes. He freezes like he always does when he sees him. Leaning against the door was none other than Namjoon. “Hey.”
Jungkook gulps. “Hi.” Jungkook watches as Namjoon lifts himself from against the door and steps closer to Jungkook. Unintentionally, Jungkook steps back.
Namjoon’s eyes widen and Jungkook ashamedly apologizes. “Sorry.”
“You look the same as the day we first.” Namjoon replies softly, now face to face with Jungkook. “Scared.”
Jungkook shivers, feeling Namjoon so close. “Just overwhelming.” he whispers. “It’s been a while.”
Namjoon smiles, “It has. You haven’t changed. Well, maybe you got a little taller. How tall are you now? Six feet?”
Jungkook pouts. “5’11. Hyung, are you going to tease me.” He whines when he sees the older man laugh.
“I’m sorry you’re just so cute.” Namjoon replies with a smirk.
Jungkook could feel his face flush in embarrassment. “Not cute.”
“You are.” Namjoon pauses, hand rising up as if to cup Jungkook’s cheek but instead goes to ruffle his hair. “Missed you little one.”
“Yeah well, you stopped texting me.”
Namjoon sighed. “It’s complicated.”
“Yeah, I know. We’re busy with volleyball.”
Something flashes in Namjoon’s eyes but disappears as fast as it had appeared. “More than that, but you’re right.” Namhoon leans against the sink and Jungkook realizes that even slightly bent Namjoon was still so much taller than Jungkook.
“Did you get taller?” Jungkook asked realization slowly hitting him.
“I’m 6’4.”
“I hate you.”
Namjoon laughs out loud and it’s like music to Jungkook’s ears.
Jungkook missed this. Missed them.
“Coming to the bathroom before games still hasn’t changed, huh?”
Jungkook shrugs. “It’s a ritual I guess.”
Namjoon hums in understanding. “Then we should do the ritual properly.” He extends his hands and surrounds Jungkook’s very own and Jungkook’s eyes widen as he stares at his hands hidden inside Namjoon’s larger ones. “Look at me Jungkook-ah.”
Jungkook doesn’t want to. Can’t.
Namjoon let’s go of one of Jungkook’s hands and he's about to whine at the loss, until he feels Namjoon’s finger on his chin tilting his head up to meet his gaze.
And Namjoon is looking at him. Really looking at him, with this fondness in his eyes that Jungkook can’t explain, but knows is just for him. Hope it's just for him. “I told you to look at me, bun.”
Jungkook gasps at the pet name, one that he hadn’t heard in a while. He steals a glance of himself in the mirror and he looks gone. Gone for all that is Namjoon and Jungkook realizes Jimin was right. His feelings were always written on his face.
“You can do this, koo. You’re extremely talented and you can do anything and everything you put your mind to. No matter what happens, you will always be a winner. My winner.” Namjoon encourages, finger now caressing Jungkook’s cheek.
It takes everything in Jungkook to not cry at the soft warmth that Namjoon was currently giving him. Jungkook could feel everything that is his love for Namjoon ready to overflow right there and then. He wants to tell him that he loves Namjoon. Has loved him since they were in high school until now. That every passing day reminds him of what they used to have, even if it was only just volleyball that kept them together.
Instead he just nods. He wasn’t going to tell him now. Not yet, not like this.
“Thank you, hyung.”
Namjoon smiles, dimples on full display and he does that thing with his eyes, where he slightly opens them, and Jungkook falls in love all over again.
“Are you playing in Gym two?” Jungkook asked, not yet wanting to go back even though he should. Just a little longer.
“Yeah.” Namjoon replies with a gentle squeeze to Jungkook’s hand and he gasps.
There’s a moment of silence between them before Jungkook breaks the silence knowing that it’s time to go back. “Hyung.”
“Hm?”
“Let’s meet again on the court.”
Namjoon stares at him, waiting for Jungkook to continue so he does. “You have to win, because I will too.”
Jungkook let go of Namjoon’s hands, slowly making his way towards the door, but before he could leave he turned back to look at Namjoon who was still watching him. “Let’s play together once more. Let’s meet at the finals game.” He smiles, nose scrunched up and with his final spoken thought he exits the bathroom, leaving Namjoon alone in the bathroom to replay in his mind the moment that had just been shared.
“What the fuck were you doing? Taking a shit?” Jimin scoffed at the sight of Jungkook jogging his way towards him on the court. The team were already five minutes into their warm-up, and there were only ten more minutes left before the game would begin “We’re receiving since we lost the coin toss, but it doesn’t matter since that’s my favorite way to start the game.”
Jungkook doesn’t say anything, instead he decides to focus on warming up his body. He can’t play well cold and he doesn’t have much time because of how long he stayed in the bathroom.
Soon, the whistle is blown and warm-up has ended. The teams all collect their balls and gather around their coach.
“It’s time.” Coach begins. “Remember what I said. Prove that you deserve to be here. Show that you want to be here. Now let’s win this thing.” Coach James puts a hand in the middle with the rest of the team putting theirs on top, Jungkook adds his last. “Ready?!”
The team begins to cheer to each other before shouting at the top of their lungs. “Today we fight!”
The six players make their way to the court, getting into their defensive position, all exchanging glances with each other and then with the opposite team. Jungkook places his hands on his knees, stance ready for whenever the whistle blows off. He could feel the heat radiating from within, ready to explode any minute like a firework.
And the whistle blows.
In a matter of seconds, the ball is sent over the net right between Jungkook and Jimin. With no doubt in his mind, Jungkook steps aside and lets it go as he runs towards his position outside the left side of the court. He knows Jimin got it.
In one quick swift motion, Jimin finds himself under the ball, position crouched low. With the use of his legs, Jimin slows down the speed of the ball and changes the direction, sending it to their setter.
A perfect pass.
Jimin smirks, fire in his eyes as he mouths, Your turn to Jungkook. His setter jumps, hands on the ball for less than a second before he shoots it to Jungkook, who meets the ball in the air.
Yes.
This is exactly what Jungkook was meant to do.
With a quick swing and a snap of his wrist his hand makes contact with the ball sending it directly past the blockers and straight for a line shot landing directly in front of the libero.
Silence.
The line ref grabs his flag and aims it down. The ref blows his whistle and the crowd erupts into cheers.
Golden Eagles - 1
Crimson tide - 0
Sweat dripped down the side of Jungkook’s face. He could feel his legs burn from exhaustion and his right arm was definitely starting to get sore. Sore from all the constant swinging he had been doing at the ball. He’s pretty sure he sprained a finger on one of the plays, but his mind is too focused on the game to figure out which one it was.
But it’s not over yet. He looks at his team members, all of them panting from exhaustion. Jimin looks like he could collapse any moment, but he continued to play nonetheless.
It wasn’t over yet.
His setter (Jackson) sets a back two ball landing directly in the middle player's hand, who cuts it around the block and directly into the Liberos hands.
“Fuck!” Shouted Jinyoung at his inability to smash the ball down.
The opposing team shouted in unison. “It’s up!” The players all pulled back as their setter ran towards the ball.
Jimin noticed their advantage and shouted back. “It’s off!”
“Jungkook, pull back! Cover short, He’s going outside!” Jackson shouted as he went up to the net ready to block. The opposing setter jumped as his fingers touched the ball.
No.
In a matter of milliseconds Jungkook watched the play before him unfolding. Completely defying what his setter had just said, he ran to the front of the net as he shouted. “Jinyoung! Close it with me!”
Although confused, Jinyoung quickly shifted right next to Jungkook as they jumped in sync, arms straight and sturdy as they prepared to block the right side player.
Everyone held their breaths as Jungkook felt the impact of the ball hit his right hand and land with a loud thud to the floor.
The room echoed in silence before everyone erupted in a roar of cheers, overriding the sound of the whistle. Jungkook looked at the redness on his right hand before he was taken into a tight embrace.
“You son of bitch!” Jackson shouted. “You fucking did it!”
Jimin shouted as he jumped up and down.
Jungkook looked at the scoreboard just in time for the change.
Stony Brook Seawolves- 27
Golden Eagles- 29
The game was now over. They had won.
Jungkook collapsed, knees hitting the hardwood floor. He felt his team members all colliding on top of him, cussing and cheering. Some were crying and Jungkook could feel his own tears building up in his eyes, so he began to look around. His own attempt to stop the tears from falling.
And that’s when he spots him, standing tall and proud as he clapped in celebration. Jungkook waits for his answer and all Namjoon does is give him a thumbs up.
They were going to the finals.
After a whole year, Jungkook would be playing on the same court as Namjoon again.
“How’s your finger?” Jimin asked as they made their way towards their bus.
Jungkook turned to him, completely zoned out. “Huh?”
“Your finger. The one you jammed during one of the blocks.” Jimin repeated, eyebrows perked up.
Jungkook brings his hands up, inspecting his fingers and there it is. A bruise forming from the base to the center of his ring finger. “Oh,” is all Jungkook manages to say. “Well, you’re going to have to wrap it up with medicinal tape tomorrow. Wouldn’t want you fracturing your finger in the middle of finals.” Jimin sighed. “My body is so sore. I can’t wait to get back to the hotel, dude. They have a pool, jacuzzi, ice bath, and a sauna. Man, I love university teams. We didn’t get this much luxury back in high school.” Jimin stretches his arms before placing them behind his head.
“Jimin! Jungkook-ah!” The duo turns around at the mention of their name. They watch as Jackson runs to catch up to them. “You guys couldn’t wait? I told Jinyoung to tell the team that I would be in the bathroom. Why did you guys leave me?”
Jungkook and Jimin watch as another taller figure stands behind Jackson. “Maybe because I never told them?”
Jackson jumps, startled by the sudden voice from behind. “Dude, what the fuck.”
“Taking a shit after the game, hyung?” Jimin giggles as the older man rolls his eyes.
“I had a lot of stress to relieve myself of. Besides, if we need to talk about people taking a shit, it should be this dude over here.” Jackson points to Jungkook. “He’s the one who took like twenty minutes in the bathroom knowing we had to warm-up.
Jungkook turns a shade of red, remembering the intimate moment he had shared with Namjoon in the said bathroom.
He remembers the way Namjoon intertwined their fingers and looked him deep in his eyes, just to comfort him and tell him he was good enough.
The praises itself were enough to send shivers down Jungkook’s spine, but the look in Namjoon’s eyes was something he couldn’t erase from his mind.
“Also, did you notice Namjoon-hyung was in our court right after we finished the game?” Jimin asked, question directed to Jungkook. “Think he saw your last play?”
“Namjoon? As in, Kim Namjoon from the Black Vipers?” Jackson tilted his head, confused.
Jimin nodded. “How do you know him?”
Jinyoung shook his head. “You’re an idiot. They literally played together throughout high school. The only difference is Namjoon graduated a year before Jungkook and Jimin. They really made a name for themselves back then. You should have seen them playing on the court, it was truly a sight to behold.”
Jackson frowned in thought before his face shifted to shock. “Oh shit. No wonder you guys were starting players off the bat. You played for Bang High School, right?”
Jimin nodded again.
“You know, now that we’re talking about it. I actually came to the same university so I could play with you guys. I saw you guys play during one of the regional tournaments and was blown away. It was hard choosing whether I should play for the Seawolves or the Black Vipers, but I made a decision and here I am.” Jinyoung confessed, light blush adorning his face.
“You’re such a fucking simp.” Jackson teased.
“You’re honestly so annoying, I swear when we get back to the--”
“Speaking of the devil.” Jimin interrupts, shooting an unspoken apology to Jinyoung before turning back to Jungkook. “Look who it is.” His eyes look past Jungkook causing the younger to turn around and spot Namjoon standing by the end of their bus.
Namjoon waves at him and Jungkook turns around to look at his teammates. “Uhm, I’ll be right back.”
Jimin looks at Namjoon and smiles at him, shouting. “Long time no see, Namjoon hyung.” He pokes Jungkook’s side, pouting. “Make sure you hurry up, I want to go inside the sauna.”
Jungkook nods as he watches Jimin turn his attention to the lanky duo beside him, small hands pushing Jackson and Jinyoung towards the door of the bus and tapping both their asses to walk up the steps and onto their seats. Jungkook giggles watching Jinyoung and Jackson whine at Jimin, before turning and making his way towards Namjoon, who was currently leaning against the butt of the bus.
“Hey.” Namjoon says with warm eyes and a dimpled smile on his face.
Jungkook could feel the heat rush to his face, but thankfully the sun had set so Namjoon wouldn’t be able to tell. Jungkook reciprocates his smile with a much shyer one of his own.
“Hi, hyung.”
Namjoon chuckles. “You don’t have to be so shy around me. We aren’t strangers you know.”
Jungkook chews at his bottom lip, his fingers playing with the zipper of his team jacket. He knows they aren’t strangers. He knows that very well since he knew Namjoon for almost all of his high school years. But that didn’t make him any less nervous, especially after realizing he was in love with Namjoon.
Noticing Jungkook’s silence, Namjoon speaks again. “Are you guys going to celebrate your win? I know some of my guys are planning on going to some restaurant and having some drinks.” N
“I don’t think so, but knowing Jimin and Jackson, they’re probably going to buy some drinks and food and celebrate at the hotel room.” Jungkook shrugs.
The silence hits them once again until Jungkook hears Namjoon’s name being called out.
“Yeah I’m going!” Namjoon shouts towards his teammate before turning to look back at Jungkook. He doesn’t know why Namjoon is still here or what it is he exactly wants, but the thought of Namjoon leaving again saddens Jungkook.
“Okay, I have to go but before I do,” Namjoon sputters, words falling from his lips quickly and Jungkook wonders if he’s nervous or just in a rush. Probably the latter. “I was wondering if I could have your number?”
Jungkook blinks. “But you have my number?”
Baffled, Namjoon scratches the back of his head and was he embarrassed? “Well, you see. I broke my phone a few months ago. I lost all my contacts and due to my original plan being too expensive, I switched phone companies which meant-”
“You got a new number.” Jungkook finished.
Namjoon nods. “That’s really one of the reasons why I stopped replying to your text messages.” His eyes widened. “I mean, not like you were texting me all the time or anything, but……… I remember what you said in the bathroom, about me not texting you. It’s not that I didn’t want to, because I did, I just wasn’t able to.” Jungkook watches as Namjoon frowns and he suddenly looks unsure. Unsure by whatever else he wants to say and Jungkook wonders what it is, but he never gets to find out. “You don’t have to give me your number if you don’t want to but, I would like to be able to talk to you again.”
And there it is again. The same look in Namjoon’s eyes that take Jungkook’s breath away.
Jungkook extends his hand and Namjoon watches it confused. The younger man can’t help but giggle at his hyung. “I need your phone if you want me to give you my number.”
“Oh.” Namjoon laughs awkwardly. “Oh yeah. You’re right, sorry.”
Namjoon hands him his phone and Jungkook giggles again as he types in his contact information. He returns the phone and looks up at Namjoon, a toothy smile on his face. “You haven’t really changed at all, have you hyung?”
Namjoon stares. “Yeah, but sometimes you don’t see change. You feel it.”
Jungkook watches as the older man smiles a final time before turning around and Jogging back to his charter bus, leaving Jungkook behind.
“Yo, Justin Seagull!” Jimin shouts. “Time to go!”
Jungkook nods, jogging his way to the door. “Sorry for taking so long.”
Jimin just shrugs. “You looked like you didn’t want him to go.”
Jungkook didn’t respond.
“I’m just saying. Maybe you should take that risk. He looks at you the same way you know.”
“Looks at me how?”
“I don’t know how to explain it, but he looks at you like there's more to what he wants to say. When he looks at you, you can see stars in his eyes. He looks…..vulnerable.”
Unknown:
Hey jungkook? It’s me, Namjoon.
Wait ofc you know it’s me. We literally just exchanged numbers.
Oh well yeah. Save my new number!!
Am i talking too much? You must be tired.
I should probably take a nap on the bus, but for some reason i can’t
Are you sleeping? Maybe I should let you rest.
Text me whenever you wake up! Or whenever you want!
God I’m sorry.
Jungkook stared at his buzzing phone, giggling at every incoming message.
Jungkook:
I’m awake haha
You’re not bothering me don’t worry. :)
Namjoon:
Okay!
Cool cool
Jungkook:
How was your game? Who did you play?
Namjoon:
Some team from the south. They’re a pretty good team, looking forward to playing them in season. What about you?
Jungkook:
Seawolves.
Namjoon:
Ah yes, I managed to watch the last point against them. You’ve definitely got better with your blocking. I saw that you read the play before it happened. That was always something you were good at.
Jungkook:
Not that good hyung.
Namjoon:
I beg to differ. I think you’re amazing.
Jungkook:
If I was so amazing, like you say, then why can I never read you?
Namjoon:
Guess you have to play against me more.
Also, it seems my bus is following right behind yours lol.
It would be funny finding out we were in the same hotel this whole time
Jungkook:
I think i would have seen your team if you were in my hotel. I know the Seawolves are in the hotel next to mine.
Namjoon:
The seawolves are in the hotel next to mine though. They’re in the Marriott.
Jungkook:
Huh? Your hotel is next to the Marriott? I didn’t see any other hotel besides mine and that one.
Namjoon:
What?
Wait, what’s your hotel?
Jungkook:
The Ritz?
Jungkook couldn’t stop the bouncing of his knee, the sudden realization that Namjoon could have been in the same hotel as him this whole time slowly dawning on him.
“You okay, kook?” Jimin asks, placing a hand gently on Jungkook's knee.
Bzzt.
Namjoon:
That’s also my hotel…..
I’m on the 24th floor.
“Yeah.” Jungkook finally whispers, releasing the breath he had been holding in. “I’m fine.”
----------------------------------
“Okay so here's the plan.” Jimin begins, throwing his bag on the floor the minute he walked through the doors of his and Jungkook’s shared hotel room. “We can either go out with the coach and some of the other team members or we can stay in the hotel, enjoy the sauna and pool and then go to the rooftop and eat korean food there.”
“Why the rooftop?” Jungkook questioned, head tilted to the side.
“Because the rooftop has those bonfires. It’s cute! Aesthetically pleasing and relaxing if you ask me.” Jimin smirked. “Besides, maybe you can invite Namjoon to join us.”
Jungkook froze. “How did you know?”
Jimin rolled his eyes. “I literally saw their bus pulling up behind ours just as we were entering the building. I know you were texting him on the bus because you had this stupidly in love face and you wouldn’t stop giggling at your phone.”
Jungkook just pouts and Jimin giggles endearly. “Seriously Kook-ah. Just invite him and spend some time with him. You haven’t seen him in a long time. Who knows when you’ll see him again. His university is an hour away from hours by car.”
Jungkook begins to ponder. Jimin was right, once Namjoon graduated, they were only able to exchange a few messages before Namjoon lost his phone and the responsibilities of being a university student and athlete hit him all in one. Jungkook understood that because he was a university student himself now. Besides, inviting Namjoon to eat korean food and hang out a little wouldn’t hurt, right?
So Jungkook gathered all his courage and sent the text.
Jungkook:
Hey, since we’re in the same building I was wondering if you wanted to Join me and Jimin.
Namjoon:
Oh? Join you guys in what?
Jungkook:
Well according to him the plan is to hit the sauna and pool and then go to the rooftop and eat korean food by the bonfire.
Namjoon:
There’s a bonfire? I didn’t even know there was a sauna. But yeah I’m down. Meet you there in 20?
Jungkook:
See you in 20 hyung :)
The minute Jungkook stepped inside the sauna, the dry heat and the smell of herbs and peppermint hit his nose. The interior design was very woody, not big but not that small either. Just the right size to fit around eight to ten people.
“Oh yeah, this is amazing.” Jimin sighed as he laid down taking one whole section. Thankfully it was only them two. “I could really use a massage right now.”
Jungkook snorts, “I’m not giving you a massage.”
“But I’m your hyung.” Jimin whined. “Come on, I’ll pay for your food.”
Tempting. Jimin really knew how to get what he wanted from Jungkook. “Fine. Move more up.”
“Oh yeah.” Jimin groaned, feeling the pressure of Jungkook’s larger hands on his shoulder slowly massaging in circular motions. “Fuck being a volleyball player, you should be a masseous. Maybe you can even be Namjoon’s personal one.”
Jimin's lips formed a mischievous grin before shifting to that of pain as Jungkook put a little too much pressure on his back. “Ow, you fucking brat.”
“Sorry. My hand slipped.” Jungkook scoffed. “I don’t even know why you need a massage when I’m also in pain.”
Jimin moaned once again in pleasure. “What can I say babes. Moving at the speed of lightning with my sick reflexes isn’t a simple task. It takes a lot of body control and all my muscles work as one. You tall giants don’t work half as hard as I do as libero. I’m your main defensive player.”
“You’re just mad your height didn’t reach the requirement to be an offensive player.” Jungkook spit back, earning himself a glare from Jimin. “I remember in high school, you wanted to be an outside hitter, but Yoongi told you that you were better as a libero.”
“Don’t mention that name around me. I will drown you in the pool.”
Jungkook giggles. “What’s with you and Yoongi hyung anyways. I thought you guys got along.”
Jimin sits up, swatting his hand away. “I said don’t talk about that guy. He pisses me off. Everytime i see him I just want to choke him. He enables my flight or fight but mostly my fight response.”
Jungkook looks at Jimin and laughs. “Didn’t you have a crush on him back in high school?”
“I will kill you. I really will.”
“You’re such a tsundere. Don’t tell me you still like Yoongi-hyung?” Jungkook laughs, completely enjoying the way Jimin reacted. The slightly older man jumped on him, tickling his sides, both of them lost in their little world not noticing the two men entering the sauna. “What about me?” A deep voice asked. Jimin and Jungkook freeze as they meet the eyes of Min Yoongi, currently sitting across from them. “Are we interrupting something?”
Jungkook looks to his side, spotting a slightly flustered Namjoon. Both of them were in swimming trunks and a white t-shirt which reminded him that Jimin was still on top of him. Jungkook instinctively shoves Jimin to the side earning a ‘hey!’ from the latter.
Namjoon won’t look at him.
“Well look who arrived.” Jimin snarls, arms crossed against his bare chest.
Yoongi snorts, seemingly pleased by Jimin’s attitude. “Park.”
Jimin glares. “Min.”
“Jeon.” Jungkook speaks up joyfully, attempting to break the tension and bringing some humor, but no one laughs. Flustered Jungkook stands up and points towards the door. “I think I’m going to go jump in the ice bath. Been here too long.”
“I’ll go too.” Jimin grumbles.
They both make their way out of the sauna, leaving Yoongi and Namjoon to relax by themselves. Jimin challenges Jungkook to jump inside the Ice pool first for an extra order of kimchi and who is Jungkook to deny that.
The freezing water feels amazing compared to the scorching heat inside of the sauna. Jungkook could feel the tingling sensation shoot its course throughout his body at the impact with the freezing cold water. His muscles contract and release and Jungkook could feel his body loosen up slightly.
Jimin follows next, releasing a cheer of relief as he rises from the icy water.
They don’t stay for long in the cold water before shifting towards the bigger pool. Soon enough, the two boys are joined by Namjoon and Yoongi.
And Jungkook thinks he might be having an aneurysm.
Jungkook watches as the wet white shirt ( that was now extremely see through. Please help him god. ) attaches itself to Namjoon’s defined chest. Namjoon’s white-platinumn hair is completely wet from the jump Namjoon had previously done in the ice pool and his extremely toned legs were exposed due to the short length of his swimming trunks. Or maybe the fact that his thighs were so thick they had his shorts rising up. But that wasn’t what stood out to Jungkook the most. It was the tattoo that peeked from underneath Namjoon’s sleeve that really had the younger man curious and maybe slightly aroused.
“Close your mouth.” Jimin whispers in Jungkook’s ears. “You’re literally drooling.”
Jungkook glares at Jimin who dips in the water and begins to swim to the center of the pool.
The room is filled with nothing but the splashing of the water until suddenly a loud voice interrupts the awkwardness. “Yo! My bros!”
Jungkook turns to look at Jackson who got a towel in his hand. Following right behind like baby ducks were Jinyoung, Seonghwa (another setter on Jungkook’s team) , Soobin and Hueningkai.
“I thought you guys were going with the coach?” Jimin asked, moving closer to the edge of the pool.
“We were, but we wanted to hit the pool. Tonights our last night here, so I wanted to enjoy the amenities.” Jackson winks. “Besides, I heard you guys were going to be here and Jinyoung didn’t want to go out with the team because they can get rowdy and Seonghwa had fallen asleep.”
Jackson then turns to look at Yoongi and Namjoon. “I also found these two roaming in the hallway like lost puppies.”
Namjoon sighs and Yoongi laughs. “So.” Jackson continued, a smirk on his face. “Can we join?”
---------
Jungkook watched as the flame swayed side to side, dancing with the wind. The sound of the burning wood seemed like music to his ears. Relaxing. Peaceful.
“You don’t talk much do you?” Namjoon spoke softly letting his body flop down on the seat to the left of Jungkook.
Whereas Jungkook was bundled up -- a small blanket hugging his body, Namjoon was in grey sweatpants and a sleeveless green shirt. The shirt allowed Jungkook’s eyes full access to Namjoon’s extremely toned and built arms.
Now, Namjoon has always been a bigger man, compared to Jungkook that is. Since high school Namjoon had always been a good six feet tall and with all the working out, he had always been of a pretty good build. Back then, Jungkook always thought he was handsome. The crush that he had on his high school best friend painfully confirmed that. It’s just unfair that even after high school, Namjoon managed to become even more attractive.
Which had Jungkook wondering if Namjoon was in a relationship. It has been more than a year since he last saw Namjoon and it would be no surprise if he met someone in his university. Jungkook was gay, but Namjoon was bisexual. He had way more options when it came to love and sex. Where Jungkook was shy and introverted, Namjoon was friendly and outgoing. Well. He was more friendly and approachable now compared to high school anyways.
It’s not that Jungkook thinks he’s not attractive. On the other hand, he knows he’s good looking. He’s been told a lot about how handsome he was much to his dismay. Jimin had once mentioned there was a fanclub for the volleyball team and he was teased for being ranked number one not just for skills, but for looks as well. According to them, he was a ladies killer which they would just laugh at because unfortunate to those ladies, he was solely into men. So, Jungkook knows he’s hot. But for some reason, that isn’t enough. Not when Namjoon was everything anyone could dream of having as a boyfriend. He was caring, sweet, determined and from the previous relationship he had in high school, extremely romantic. He was extremely smart and mature for his age and he always knew what he wanted. Never hesitated to go forward even if he had possibilities of failing.
While Jungkook was terrified of losing. He was never good with failure and would succumb to his thoughts that would tell him he needed to be better. To try harder because even if he did something good, it was still not enough. Never enough.
So why would Namjoon even think he was good for him? When Jungkook himself didn’t think so.
“What are you thinking about?”
Jungkook snaps out of his thoughts, turning to look at Namjoon who had a hint of worry on his face. “What?”
“You're doing that thing where you get lost inside your head. Your eyes focus on something and wrinkles form right here.” A finger presses in between Jungkook’s eyebrows and Jungkook realizes he was indeed frowning. The warmth released from Namjoon’s finger is enough to relax Jungkook’s face. “You always had a habit of getting lost in your head. May I ask what’s bothering you?”
Not being with you. This being our last time together.
“Just thinking about finals.”
Namjoon hums, not pushing further and for that Jungkook is thankful.
Jungkook’s eyes land once more upon the tattoo that is no longer hidden underneath a white t-shirt but is now exposed and he realizes that it’s bigger than he had first assumed, covering most of his tricep area. “You have a tattoo.” Jungkook states.
Namjoon chuckles nervously, tilting his head in a quick motion. “Yeah I got it my first year of college.”
“May I?” Jungkook asks softly, hand extended towards Namjoon who nods. “Did it hurt?” Jungkook whispered, fingers tracing the beautiful tattoo. His fingertips gently grazed Namjoon’s soft skin and Jungkook could feel him shiver at the touch.
“It didn’t hurt much. I guess the pain was pretty manageable.” Namjoon responded, his eyes following Jungkook’s fingers as it continued to caress his skin softly. “I guess you can say the shady hurt more. I did it in one go.”
Jungkook’s eyes widened as he looked at Namjoon, eyes already on him. “You did this all in one session? Wow.” “You know, this reminds me of that conversation we had back in high school.” Jungkook whispers. Unconsciously Jungkook gets his face closer to the tattoo, trying to inspect it better. “The first time I ever saw you play volleyball I was extremely impressed. You were always so fierce and calculated on the court always taking the role of a leader even when you weren’t the captain. You lived for the court.”
Namjoon just hums, body inclining closer to Jungkook. “It was everything I lived for.”
Jungkook nods, chewing at his bottom lip. “After Joining the volleyball team, I hated you.” Namjoon laughs and Jungkook follows with a small chuckle. “Seriously! I didn’t like you because I felt like you looked down on me. Like I wasn’t good enough.” Jungkook’s voice gets softer towards the end.
“That’s not true.”
“I know, but it’s how i felt back then. Until one day, I saw you after we lost our first game of the season. You looked defeated. I remember seeing you outside the gymnasium as you looked up to the night sky and stared at the moon, lost. And that’s when I realized that every time you felt confused or sad, you would always seek for the moon. As if it were there to guide you and comfort you.” Jungkook shrugs.
“Yeah, I remember that conversation. It stuck with me ever since we spoke about it.” Namjoon murmurs and Jungkook looks up realizing the close proximity of Namjoon’s face and blushes. When did he get this close? “I always did look at the moon for some sort of guidance, because when the sun goes down, the moon comes up to light up a path for those in the dark.” Namjoon’s eyes shift downwards, landing on Jungkook’s lips. “In a way I did this because it was a reminder of not only me, but--”
“Heeeey! We brought food!” Jackson shouts suddenly, “Sorry we took so long, you can blame Jimin because--” Namjoon and Jungkook jump backwards onto their seats. Jackson’s mouth drops open and Jimin looks like he’s about to laugh. Jinyoung and the other three players just take the bags from Jackson’s hand and make their way towards the table a few feet away from the bonfire. “Are we, er, interrupting something?”
Jungkook could feel the heat radiating off his face. When did they get so close and was Namjoon staring at his lips?
Jungkook could feel his heart beating rapidly inside his chest and he just wanted to scream. He didn’t have the courage to look at Namjoon but he wondered what kind of expression he wore on his face. Was he also embarrassed?
Jimin clears his throat. “Well then, let’s eat. I’m starving.” He drags Jackson by his shirt who can’t seem to process what he had seen between Namjoon and Jungkook. Just as he was about to ask whatever crossed his mind, Jimin spoke. “If you don’t eat your noodles Jackson I’ll make sure to eat them myself. Oh look, Jinyoung is already eating your food.”
That was enough to make Jackson divert his attention from the two flustered boys in the chair, to the taller man on the table. “Jinyoung get your hands off my noodles. I will shove those chopsticks up your ass.”
“Don’t threaten me with a good time.” Jinyoung teased completely unfazed.
Jungkook made eye contact with Jimin who just winked at him. He made himself a mental note to thank Jimin later.
Namjoon:
Make sure you get a good night's sleep, long day tomorrow.
Jungkook:
Thank you hyung, you too.
Namjoon:
:) <3
Jungkook laid on his bed staring at the open message with Namjoon.
“You really should tell him how you feel. You keep hesitating.” Jimin said the minute they entered their hotel room. “It’s obvious he has feelings for you, too.”
Jungkook sighed. “What if you’re reading this wrong?”
“Jungkook, you guys were seconds away from kissing. You should have seen his face when you guys pulled away. I know for a fact that he likes you--shit, I wouldn’t doubt it if he was in love with you either.”
Jungkook could feel his heart soaring at the possibility of Namjoon being in love with him. That would definitely be too good to be true.
“All I’m saying is that you should really go for it. Before you lose the opportunity to love him and someone else takes the place that could have been yours. You guys were best friends in high school, I wouldn’t be surprised if just like you, along the way his feelings for you stop being that of a friend.” Jimin shrugged as he got underneath the covers of his own bed. “I just want you to be happy and if being with him makes you happy then you should do it.”
Jungkook placed his phone on his nightstand and turned off the lights. He could feel himself vibrating with love and every warm feeling he could think off. Being with Namjoon did that to him, but at the same time gave him comfort. Warmth. Security. He wanted more of that and there was only one way he could achieve it.
Jungkook hears the soft snores coming from Jimin and he closes his eyes. Sleep quickly catches up to him as he drifts off into a wonderful dream where everything turns out in his favor.
Tomorrow. Jungkook would tell Namjoon how he feels tomorrow.
Beep.
Namjoon:
You’re probably sleeping right now but there’s something I need to tell you tomorrow after the game.
When Jungkook wakes up the next morning, the first thing he does is check his phone. Upon reading the message Namjoon sent him last night, he can’t help but wonder what exactly it was he needed to tell him.
“Nice of you to finally wake up sleeping beauty.” Jimin said walking out the door with a toothbrush in his mouth. “I hope you’re ready to kick Namjoon’s ass today. Feelings will not be allowed. Today he is your enemy, tomorrow he could be your lover.”
Jungkook rolled his eyes.
“Now hurry up. I don’t want coach to get mad at me if we’re late because of you.”
Stepping inside the main court did nothing but take his breath away. This was the same court where many professional games took place. The thought that maybe one day Jungkook might be able to play alongside the best of the country fueled Jungkook’s determination. There was quite the crowd today, a mixture of players and family and friends.
“Hey Jungkook, look there.” Jimin pointed to the seats in the crowd and Jungkook’s eyes following landing on a group of friends. Jungkook could feel the smile spread across his face. “They really came!”
The group of guys wave at Jungkook and Jimin and they both jog their way to the crowd. As they get closer to the audience Jungkook could hear the shouts of the girls and Jimin laughs.
“Seems like you both never fail to woo the crowd.” One of the guys from the friend group laughed.
Jungkook shook his head slightly, a small blush on his face. “Aish, Hoseokie-hyung you’re exaggerating.”
“I’m so happy you guys came!” Jimin exclaimed, excitement in his voice. “It’s been a while since we got together after high school.”
“Of course I would come. Busy as my life is, I will always have time for my disciples.” Seokjin sighed dramatically. “It’s so hard being an adult.”
Hoseok laughed and Jimin rolled his eyes. “You’re just old.”
“Yah! Don’t make me hurt you.” Seokjin threatened.
Jimin giggled. “You can’t hurt me hyung. I have a game to win.”
“One of us can replace you.”
Jimin pouted and they all laugh. Jungkook turns to look at the other three guys sitting next to them and smiles warmly. “It’s nice to see you guys as well. How’s your first year in college? Are you guys also playing for a team?”
They laugh and shake their heads. Yeonjun decides to answer. “I don’t think any of us continued playing. We found different things that we wanted to focus on. Only Soobin and Hueingkai continued. Beomgyu here is majoring in photography, Taehyun is a psychology major and I major in fashion design alongside Taehyung-hyung. We actually take the same classes.”
“I see.” Jungkook nods.
“Speaking of Taehyung, where is he? Was he not able to come?” Jimin asks searching for the other man.
“Oh he went to the bathroom. He also said he would buy some snacks.” Seokjin answered. “He would be extremely mad at me if I came to the game without him.”
“Well, can’t leave your boyfriend behind now, can you?” Hoseok teased.
Jimin’s eyes widened in shock and Jungkook’s expression was no different. “What do you mean boyfriend? I thought Taehyung was dating you, Hoseok-hyung?” Jimin asked, baffled.
“Wait, Taehyung is dating Hobi-hyung?” Jungkook turned to Jimin. “And you knew about it?”
Jimin shrugged. “Well obviously I don’t know.”
Hoseok laughs and Seokjin ears start to turn red. “Taehyung and I dated first, but there was always a connection between them too. It was difficult at first but then I realized that instead of leaving them together, I also wanted to be with them. I loved them both and well we made it work.”
“Jungkook! Jimin!” Coach James shouted. “We need you here!”
Seokjin looked at the two of them before lifting up a fist. “You got this guys! Good luck!” Jungkook and Jimin nod, waving at their friends as they make their way back to their team. Coach James begins to give his usual motivational speech but Jungkook can’t seem to focus as he watches one of the doors to the gymnasium.
As if on cue, the door opens and the first person to step in leading his team is none other than Namjoon. The crowd erupts in cheers as Namjoon heads towards the bench, listening attentively to whatever his coach was saying and for a second his eyes meet Jungkook’s followed by a smile.
It was time.
“Jungkook, why don’t you go for the coin toss today?” Jackson asks while he tightens the laces of his shoes.
“What? But you’re the captain.”
“Just go. Don’t get me wrong, this is an important game to me. I just feel like this game has a lot more meaning for you.” Jackson stands straight and stretches his arms. “They’re waiting.”
Jungkook turns towards the other side of the net, where the referee is waiting as he conversates with Namjoon. Namjoon, who’s standing there holding one leg up as it presses against his body, stretching the inner muscle in his leg. His uniform is black with dark green outer layers that press nicely against his chest, emphasizing his body structure not to mention sleeveless, allowing his tattoo to be on display. It looks nicer under the light Jungkook thinks. He also notices the snake design curling from the bottom right of Namjoon’s uniform and he realizes that they are indeed the Black Vipers.
Jungkook’s own uniform was dark blue with golden layers and a golden eagle logo pressed right in the upper center of his chest. He could feel the excitement mixed with nervousness buzz throughout his body as he took each step closer to Namjoon. He watched as Namjoon’s eyes landed upon him, slightly surprised at the fact that it was Jungkook joining the coin toss and not, well, Jackson.
“The game will be played best of five. Each team is allowed two timeouts per set. All rules apply and there will be a break between the games to allow players to recollect themselves.” The referee explained before asking. “Now, which one of you will call the coin toss?”
“He can choose first.” Namjoon said. The referee turned his attention to Jungkook, waiting for his answer. He takes a deep breath as he says, “Tails. I choose tails.”
The referee nods, “Here we go.” He tosses the coin in the air before catching it with one hand giving both boys a look. He places the coin on the back of his hand, covering it for a second before letting it go. “Tails it is.”
Namjoon smiles. “You were always lucky at the coin toss.” Jungkook blushes. “Thanks.”
The referee then asks Jungkook if he would rather receive or serve which he chose to serve. That way he could start off the game with his new serving routine and maybe even surprise Namjoon with his improved skill.
“You guys will have fifteen minutes of warm up and then the game will begin.” The ref states. “Shake hands and may the best team win.” He then turns, making his way to the other ref that will be watching the play from the ground, leaving the two boys to each other.
“You ready?” Namjoon asks, a smile on his face.
Jungkook nods and looks at Namjoon. Really looks at him before he asks, “What do you have to tell me hyung?”
The precious blush that scatters across Namjoon’s face has Jungkook’s heart beat rapidly inside his chest, the same warmth he always feels when he’s around Namjoon spreading across his body. He’s so absolutely infatuated with the older man that he wonders how it has been possible for Namjoon to never realize Jungkook’s feelings towards him all this time.
“I said I'll tell you after the game.” Namjoon replies flustered. Jungkook doesn’t reply, instead he thinks about what he is about to say. You lose all the chances you don’t take.
“Hyung,” Jungkook begins, watching as he becomes the sole focus of Namjoon. “I’m going to win.” Namjoon chuckles about to speak but Jungkook doesn’t let him, finally sure of what he has to say. “And when I win, hyung, I want to take you on date.”
Namjoon stops laughing, eyes wide in shock and lips slightly parted. Jungkook’s eyes stare at his lips, suppressing the sudden urge of wanting to close the distance and pressing his own lips against the plumpness of Namjoon’s. Jungkook diverts his eyes from Namjoon’s lips to meet his gaze, absolutely determined. “I will win not only this game, but you as well.”
Jungkook turns to make his way back to his team, leaving Namjoon absolutely speechless.
There is absolute silence in the room.
Jungkook stands at the end of court. With his eyes closed and he takes a deep breath. He feels the ball in his hand and patiently waits. Waits for the game to begin.
And the whistle blows.
He spins the ball in his hand, his eyes flying open as he tosses it up in the air.
One. Two. Jump.
In the middle of the air, Jungkook’s hand comes in contact with the ball, sending it spinning at a high velocity across the other side of the court. The ball makes its way towards Yoongi, who's already in position to get underneath the ball, until.
The ball changes direction and curves towards the right just as Yoongi moved left to receive it. His face expresses that of shock as the ball flies right past him and inside the court just barely towards the line.
In.
Golden eagles- 1
Black vipers- 0
Jungkook was going to win this game, no matter what.
Set 1- Golden eagles won
Set 2- Black Viper took their win
Set 3- Golden eagles take the lead
Set 4- Black Vipers tie the game.
Set 5-
The whistle blows and the Golden Eagles take their last time out. One by one the players get off the court as Coach James begins to point out a different play to use.
Jungkook looks at the scoreboard.
Gold Eagles- 21
Black Vipers- 22
Jungkook has to make sure they score in the next play. Right now they were losing and he can’t afford that. Not when there was too much at stake.
He looks over towards Namjoon’s team, all of them as equally exhausted as Jungkook and his team. You can see the sweat dripping down their face and the redness in their cheeks from all the running and jumping they had been doing. Compared to the last two days, five sets were brutal. Especially against good teams like the Black Vipers. Jungkook groaned as the exhaustion creeped up on him. At least on the court his mind was focused on the game. But off the court he could feel his body throbbing in pain.
“We need to score the next point.” Jungkook spoke up suddenly.
Jimin sighed. “We know that, but their defense is impenetrable. Their blockers have been focusing on taking away the line shot giving the hitters no option but to hit a cross shot right where Yoongi waits.” He groans frustrated. After four games Namjoon had managed to read almost all of their plays.
“Then we come up with a new strategic plan. What if we use their blocks to our advantage.” Jungkook suggested. “What do you mean?” Jackson asked, intrigued by Jungkook’s idea. “You want us to tool the block?”
Jungkook smirked. “We have to throw them off somehow. They’re expecting a hit straight down the court. Jackson, can you set a high five ball?”
Jimin frowned. “They’re literally blocking line shots. Why would he set you up right where you can get shut down?”
“Who said I’ll let them block me and score?”
Back on the court, Jungkook looked at all his teammates, nodding in reassurement. ‘We got this,’ he mouthed. Namjoon was currently backrow and Jungkook knew they had to take advantage of it while they still could because in the next rotation he would come to the net. Once he moved up, the block would be completely difficult to get around.
The whistle blows and the ball is sent towards Jungkook’s side of the court. Jimin takes his step to the right, getting underneath the ball passing it straight to Jackson. Jinyoung runs up next to Jackson jumping just in tune to him and throwing off the blockers on the Black Viper team by one second before they realized that the ball was going high and out towards Jungkook.
Running his approach, Jungkook notices the slight opening they leave him. It’s not big enough for him to shoot it down the line, but instead his arm swings straight into the right arm of the opposite player. In a quick swift, Jungkook turns his wrist towards right, ball bouncing back and past Jungkook’s left side. He hears the sound of the ball hit the floor and he waits.
Waits for an answer.
The referee looks towards the line ref on Jungkook’s side and he swears he could hear all his teammates hold their breath.
“Out!” The line referee yells.
The officiate blows the whistle hand turning towards Jungkook’s team.
Golden Eagles- 22
Black Vipers- 22
The next play goes like this.
The ball is served towards Namjoon’s side of the court and much to everyone's shock, the one to pass the ball is none other than Namjoon himself.
Usually, Namjoon would never take the first ball as his main mission was to get to the front and set the second ball, but this time he receives it perfectly, sending it high and up for another person to take.
But who? Who would be the one to take the second ball?
In a quick motion, much to the surprise of everyone in the damn gym, libero Min Yoongi steps up to take the role. Jumping right before the ten foot line he sets a perfect red set ball right back to Namjoon and fuck.
Absolutely throwing everyone off guard Jinyoung and Eunwoo, (Their right side hitter) went to block the line shot, but unfortunately, attempting to block a play from backrow was either a guaranteed success or a complete failure.
This time it was the latter. The team pulled back ready to receive whatever ball Namjoon was about to hit, but Jungkook never expected for his ball to zoom across the net and fly past Jungkook, his reflexes a tad bit too slow to intercept the speed of the ball.
The crowd roars at the play that Namjoon and Yoongi just pulled off.
A play that represents not only years of teamwork, but trust as well. The duo high five and smirk at each other, obviously satisfied at their results.
Jungkook is awed, slightly turned on and maybe a little jealous.
Golden Eagles- 22
Black Vipers- 23
They can’t afford to fall back.
The BlackVipers serve and Jungkook receives the ball. He’s too off position for Jackson to set to him but he can’t afford to not jump. Even if his thighs were screaming at him to stop, he can’t and he won’t.
Jackson sets a back nine right where Eunwoo was waiting and as soon as the ball is in front of him swings at it, hoping to score. Unfortunately the ball was picked up by Jaebum (one of the outside hitters of the Vipers) who had been waiting right across the court.
Jungkook watches attentively in a matter of seconds the multiple plays that could come out of this. He could feel the burning in his chest intensify and he knows if he doesn’t end this now, he’s not sure how much longer he will last. He quickly shifts his attention towards Namjoon who runs under the ball, hands up as his fingers prepare to set the ball.
Think Jungkook. Who will he set?
And that’s when he sees it.
In the corner of his eyes, Jungkook sees Namjoon’s outside hitter go right and around him as he approaches the center, while the middle player goes the other way. Jungkook makes his decision and jumps.
The loud sound of the ball colliding with a hand could be heard as Jungkook quickly turns around shouting, “It’s a touch! Get it!”
Jimin throws his body towards the ball and with one arm pushes the ball up in a swift motion before colliding with the floor. “It’s up! Jackson!”
They need to score. They have to tie the game.
In a shout of unison, all three hitters run in synchronization, shouting for a chance to get the set. To prove that they can indeed score the point needed for them to keep playing. For the chance to win.
Jungkook elevates himself from the floor, urging his body to keep pushing. Just a little longer.
Jackson sees his chance as the blockers on the Black Vipers team are too focused on the possibility of a middle or right side hit, leaving Jungkook open. The ball lands in his fingers for a millisecond before he shoots the ball outward and right in front of Jungkook’s hand. He has no blockers---- this is his chance to score.
Jungkook swings his arm with force, only one thing in his mind. Pounding the ball to the ground. And maybe that’s where he made his mistake, because he doesn’t see it.
Jungkook doesn’t see the way Namjoon had already calculated the play in his mind. Jungkook doesn’t see that Namoon purposely let him think he had an open net, as he looked for the perfect time. The perfect moment to jump right in front of Jungkook’s hitting hand, arms raised in a solid form as they become a looming wall against Jungkook’s offense.
Shit.
The ball bounces straight down from Namjoon’s arm landing on the ground with the loudest thud.
The whistle blows and the scoreboard changes for the last time.
Golden Eagles- 22
Black Vipers- 24
The game had now ended and Jungkook had lost.
Jungkook doesn’t know what he’s more upset about. Losing the game for his team or finally gathering the courage to tell Namjoon his feelings and betting on it just to completely fuck it up? Or that Namjoon knew what this meant to Jungkook but instead took it upon himself to personally guarantee that he won against Jungkook, because he simply didn’t want to go on that date.
Jungkook should have known. Jimin was wrong the whole time.
And he knows he’s being petty about it since he shook everyone’s hand except for Namjoon after the game. But he can’t face it at the moment. Not now anyways.
“Hey Jungkookie, it’s okay. There will always be another chance to win against them. We have the whole season.” Jimin tried to comfort, placing a hand on Jungkook’s shoulder. “It’s not the end of the world, don’t be so hard on yourself.”
Jungkook shrugs Jimin’s hand off him, not really in the mood for a pep talk. He makes his way towards the chairs, just wanting this to be over with. He just wants to leave this dumb gymnasium and board the damn bus home as he completely hides from the outside world and swims in his own self-loath.
“Hey Jungkook.” Jungkook says fuck it and turns away from players bench, making his way towards the entrance of the gymnasium. “Jungkook, wait.” Namjoon called out. “Jungkook, can we talk?”
Jungkook scoffs and he could hear Namjoon jogging to him. Couldn’t he just leave him alone?
“There’s nothing to talk about.” Jungkook responds angrily. “I got the message. Loud and clear.”
“What? Jungkook, stop.” Namjoon wraps his fingers around Jungkook’s wrist holding him from moving any further. “Let me explain.”
Jungkook turns to look at him and he’s sure he looks pathetic because he’s definitely on the verge of tears. “Explain what Namjoon? I got your message. You don’t want to go on the date. That last point made it loud and clear. That was your way of rejecting me. I get it. Can i go now?”
Namjoon frowns, “Where did you even get that? That’s not--”
“Just forget what I said okay? You can completely forget that I asked you on a date. You can completely forget everything, including the fact that I like you.” Jungkook is pretty sure he’s crying now, but he can’t seem to stop and he knows he should. They’re still in very much in a public gymnasium. “You know what’s crazy? I don’t even think it’s as simple as `` I like you anymore Namjoon. I’m pretty sure I’m in love with you, and if you asked me since when, then I wouldn’t be able to answer that because by the time I realized it, you had already meant so much to me.”
Namjoon just looks at him, the grip around Jungkook’s wrist not letting up. “But I understand you don’t feel the same way at all and it was so stupid of me to even think you did.” Jungkook chuckles wetly. “That’s what I get for listening to Jimin. Why would you even like me? I’m not even good enough for--”
Jungkook is cut off with the sudden press of Namjoon’s lips against his and he gasps at the contact before completely melting into the kiss. Namjoon’s hand goes up to cup Jungkook’s cheek, other hand letting go of Jungkook’s wrist just so he could intertwine their fingers. Jungkook doesn’t know how long they kiss for but all he knows is that he feels like he’s soaring high.
By the time Namjoon pulls back, Jungkook opens his eyes, not realizing he had them closed. Namjoon just looks at him completely enamoured as he assures in a gentle tone, “You’re enough. You have always been more than enough to me. I also fell for you at some point in time during our high school years and I dreamed of a day like this, never thinking it could actually come true. After I lost my phone and we lost contact, I genuinely believed I would never be able to see you again. But then you showed up in this tournament with the same look in your eyes and you looked exactly as the boy from four years, but then I realized that you’re also not the same. You’ve grown so much from when I last saw you that I didn’t think I was good enough for you. ”
Jungkook doesn’t understand what is happening, could the exhaustion from the games finally gone to his head? Was he going insane or did Namjoon actually say everything he did. Did Namjoon actually kiss him? So many questions yet only one escapes his lips. “You love me?”
Namjoon smiles, connecting their foreheads together. “You became the moon to my wolf Jungkook. I loved you then and even until now, my feelings haven’t gone away.”
“The moon to your wolf?” Jungkook murmured confused before realizing what Namjoon had said and turning his attention towards his tattoo. Under the bright gymnasium light, he was finally able to see the tattoo in full clarity. His fingers trace the moon, almost at a loss for words. He turns to meet Namjoon’s gaze before saying, “That’s a flower inside of the moon.”
Namjoon nods. “That’s…..a tiger lily.” Jungkook states slightly hesitant out of fear of being wrong. Namjoon just nods again. Jungkook feels like he could burst any moment. “That’s my birth flower.”
“Yeah, it is. Because at one point, you became my light when I was surrounded by darkness. The moon to my wolf.”
In a matter of seconds, Jungkook wraps his arms around Namjoon’s neck, tiptoeing so he would be able to properly hug him. “I love you.”
Namjoon laughs. “I love you.”
“This is absolutely disgusting. You’re in the middle of a gymnasium.” Jimin spoke interrupting their little bubble. “Don’t get me wrong, I’m absolutely happy for you, but i’m pretty sure we got the girls in our fanclub crying right now.”
Jungkook’s face turned red as it dawned on him that they had indeed done all of this in front of everyone. Before he can apologize, Namjoon captures his lips once more. This time you could hear the sound of clapping and cheering and Jungkook recognizes the voice screaming, ‘I raised him right!’ because only Seokjin hyung would say that.
“I can’t believe Jungkook got a boyfriend before me.” Jimin groaned.
“Is this your way of telling me that you’re single?” Yoongi speaks up, catching Jimin off guard.
Rolling his eyes, Jimin replies. “I don’t like you.”
“That’s funny, because you never were like this in high school. I remembered you always used to find a way to be around Seokjin and I.” Yoongi teased. “What happened, chim?”
Jimin could feel himself blush at the sudden nickname he hadn’t heard in a long time. “I will kill you.”
Yoongi nodded, completely amused.“Oh yes, a wonderful love language.”
“No, I will really kill you.” Jimim grumbled. “ Libero Min Yoongi’s cause of death: Strangulation.”
“Kinky.” Yoongi adds. “So do you want to go on a date?”
Jimin walks away with Yoongi following behind. “I don’t want to date you.”
“Your reaction says different.”
Jungkook watches as the pair waddled away, and he can’t help but laugh at everything that he had just witnessed with Namjoon behind him, arms wrapped around his waist, giggling as well.
Jungkook had lost the tournament, but he’s never been happier.
You lose all the chances you don’t take.
Good thing I took my chance on you.
The end.