Archive of Our Own

I.

The first time the thought crossed his mind was when Jeongguk showed up in the dance studio unannounced.

Jimin had already been there for three hours, just about ready to tear his hair out. He had a showcase coming up and he had been given a solo. Yoongi had so graciously gifted Jimin one of his compositions and the two of them had spent the past month working on the vocals.

Jimin had to put together the choreography now.

But nothing he did seemed right. It was all muddled, jerky, and too simple that someone at his level should be doing. Jimin couldn’t get the hang of it.

He was running through another freestyle run, watching himself in the mirror to see if he liked anything he was putting together.

Surprise!

He didn’t.

But what he did see was someone leaning against the wall, watching him with an adoring gaze. Jimin stopped dancing, breaking out into a smile when he caught Jeongguk’s eyes into the mirror. All of the frustration bled out of him in an instant.

“Jeongguk! I didn’t see you come in.” Jimin spoke as he signed, crossing over to shut off the music. The two of them had figured out that Jimin signed better if he was speaking and Jimin actually preferred it that way. “When did you get here?”

Jeongguk pushed himself off of the wall. “Just a few minutes ago. Looking good.”

“No, looking awful actually.” Jimin laughed, running a hand through his sweat soaked hair. Jeongguk’s nose scrunched up as he smiled, wrapping an arm around Jimin’s waist and pulling him in.

Beautiful. He mouthed. Jimin’s heart fluttered and he wrapped his arms around Jeongguk’s neck, fingers playing with the small hairs on the back of his neck. Jimin sighed, resting his forehead on Jeongguk’s shoulder. Jeongguk drew circles into his sides, pressing a small kiss to Jimin’s temple. Their eyes met in the mirror again and Jeongguk signed, “Rough day?”

“Hmm. Can’t get the choreography down. Nothings clicking.”

Jeongguk pursed his lips. “Can I see?”

“There’s nothing really to see. I’ve been free styling this whole time hoping something would stick.” Jimin lifted his head, pouting. “I need it all choreographed by Tuesday.”

Jeongguk tilted his head in thought. “Let me watch anyway. Maybe I can help.”

Jimin doubted it, but nodded. He gave Jeongguk a quick kiss before turning the music back on. He got into a basic starting position and waited for the music to start. Jeongguk sat on the floor right next to the speakers since it didn’t bother him at all.

Jimin went through the song, free styling and scowling every time something looked weird or didn’t match. Which was… almost the whole time. He didn’t know what it was. He loved the song, loved the beat and had so many ideas for it. But nothing fit.

“Thoughts?” Jimin panted, lifting his shirt to wipe the sweat away from his face. Jeongguk whistled lowly and openly eyed Jimin’s abdomen, smirk on his lips and glint in his eyes. Jimin lowered his shirt, sticking his tongue out. Jeongguk winked, making Jimin laugh. “Did you even pay attention?”

“To the important things, yes.”

“Jeongguk.”

“Alright, alright I’m done.” The playfulness disappeared as Jeongguk thought, tilting his head back to stare at the ceiling. “I think you’re too distracted.”

“Too distracted?”

Jeongguk nodded. “You’re so focused on the beat and matching it that you’re breaking up your flow.”

Jimin’s brow furrowed. It made sense but… “How did you know I was focusing on the beat?”

“Well, common sense and-“ He tapped the floor, grinning. “I can feel the vibrations.”

“Ah.” Jimin grabbed his water and took a drink. “So how do I fix that?”

Jeongguk shrugged. “Relax? Let loose? Don’t worry so much about everything being perfect right away?”

“Me? Worry about being perfect?” Jimin asked in a high voice. “Never.”

Jeongguk rolled his eyes.

“I’m constantly watching myself and when something doesn’t work I tense up.” Jimin ran a hand through his hair again.

Jeongguk’s eyes lit up. “Then don’t watch yourself.”

“Easier said than done. Besides, I need to watch myself to know what I’m doing and what I like.”

“Set up the recording camera.” 

Jimin paused. That was a good idea. He could just record what he does and view it at the end to pick what he liked. But…

“It wouldn’t work. Not to sound vain but I can’t keep my eyes off myself when I’m dancing. It’s habit.”

“Then turn around.”

Jimin giggled. “Then I’d be looking at you and you’d make faces at me the whole time.”

Jeongguk grinned, not even trying to argue. His eyes lit up again and Jimin knew he had another idea. 

“Close your eyes!”

“Close my eyes?” Jimin repeated slowly. “That’s crazy.”

“No it’s not. You use the camera to record yourself and you close your eyes so you can’t see what you’re doing.”

Jimin bit his lip nervously. “But what if I run into something?”

“You won’t. I’ll be here to make sure you’re safe.” Jeongguk’s face was determined and it made Jimin melt. It was scary to think about, dancing with his eyes closed, but he trusted Jeongguk. If he said Jimin would be safe, then Jimin would be safe.

“Okay.” Jimin whispered. “Let’s do this.”

In no time the camera was set up and ready to be used, Jeongguk standing next to it with his hand on the button. Jimin took a deep breath and nodded. Jeongguk hit the button and he rushed over to start the music as well.

Jimin’s heart pounded in his chest as he shut his eyes. It was disorienting to only see darkness, but he didn’t dare open them. Instead, he just listened.

The music washed over him in waves and Jimin’s body involuntarily relaxed. This was the music he had spent many nights falling asleep to. This was the music that he played when he had every available chance to. This was the music he had cried over.

He listened. 

Jimin let his body move on its own, fluid and reacting to the music. There was no plan. No steps. No technique he wanted to try. He let the music shape him, mold him into what it wanted him to be. 

Something clicked, and Jimin knew that this was going to be his best attempt.

He was out of breath when he finished, the last notes dying out. He didn’t open his eyes as he let his exhausted body flop to the floor, the hours of dancing finally catching up to him. He heard clapping and opened his eyes to see Jeongguk standing above him, bunny grin in place.

“That was really good!”

Jimin smiled, accepting the hand that Jeongguk held out. Jeongguk pulled him to his feet, kissing him softly. “I think you’ll like it too.”

“I hope so.”

Jeongguk and Jimin sat back down on the floor, Jimin in between his legs and leaning back against his chest. Jeongguk nuzzled his nose into Jimin’s neck but the elder paid no attention as he watched the video.

Jeongguk was right. He did like this one. It was nowhere near what Jimin wanted from the solo, but he noted multiple areas where he liked what he was doing. Relieved tears pricked at his eyes and he turned in Jeongguk’s arms.

“Good?”

“Good.” Jimin reassured. Jeongguk grinned. “Thank you for helping me Gukkie.”

“Anything for you Jimin.”

Jeongguk kissed him softly and Jimin hummed, tilting his head.

The two of them drew back after a moment, knowing that they were in a public building where anyone could walk in. They didn’t want anyone to feel the need to bleach their brains.

“Are you done for today hyung?”

“I think so.” Jimin grinned at him. “Want to come over and watch a movie?”

“Iron man?” Jeongguk asked excitedly.

Jimin winced internally, but nodded. Jeongguk got to his feet hurriedly and raced to the wall to get Jimin’s things. Jimin rolled his eyes. Guess they weren’t making out today. Jeongguk wouldn’t be able to take his eyes off of the screen for more than a second. Not that Jimin minded. He was so in love with him that just a smile would be-

Jimin froze.

In love?

Jimin blinked, his eyes following Jeongguk’s movements as he folded up Jimin’s towel to shove into his dance bag. His heart felt heavy, warmth spreading throughout his skin.

I’m in love with Jeongguk.

Jimin used to think that love was scary. But as Jeongguk turned to him, eyes bright and wide, yelling at Jimin to hurry up, Jimin knew it wasn’t scary at all.

II.

“Oh I like dance too! I’m actually in a dance crew a couple blocks away. Do you want to come see it? We should be having a class soon and we do need another person. I think a beginner like you would be perfect for it.”

Jimin smiled politely, but his eyes frantically searched for Jeongguk. He was at the counter, showing the barista his phone.

“Actually Hyunsoo-“

“Hyunwoo.”

“...Hyunwoo-shi.” Jimin’s smile tightened. “I’m not a beginner. I’ve been doing dance for a few years-“

“Ah! So you’ve already got some experience! Then you could come give us some pointers!” He smiled brightly from his seat, the seat that Jeongguk had previously been occupying.

 Jeongguk had gotten up to go order for them and after a minute Hyunwoo had sat down across from Jimin, introducing himself before asking Jimin his name and major.

Jimin didn’t know if he was recruiting or flirting.

“-after that we could go to barbecue together.” Hyunwoo offered, blushing a little. “I’ll pay.”

Ah. Flirting then.

“Listen, Hyunwoo-shi-“

“You can just call me hyung.” He puffed up his chest a little. “I’m twenty-three so I’m older than you.”

Jimin’s smile almost dropped, but he forced it to stay in place

“Actually,” Jimin grit through his teeth. “I’m twenty-five so-“

Hyunwoo’s brown eyes widened. “Oh! I’m sorry. You’re just so short-“ Jimin’s fingers clenched into fists. “-and cute that I thought-“

A drink appeared in front of Jimin’s face making Jimin look up. Jeongguk was there, watching Hyunwoo with an unreadable expression. Hyunwoo stared back with a raised eyebrow.

“Can I help you?” He asked defensively. Jimin resisted the urge to smack his forehead. Jeongguk raised an eyebrow and turned to Jimin.

“He asked if he could help you.” Jimin signed before turning back to Hyunwoo. “Hyunwoo-shi this is my boyfriend Jeongguk. Jeongguk this is Park Hyunwoo, someone I just met a few minutes ago.”

Hyunwoo gaped while Jeongguk smiled, holding out a hand.

“Boyfriend?” He spluttered. He eyed Jeongguk up and down, ignoring the outstretched hand. Jeongguk slowly lowered it, bracing his hand over the back of Jimin’s chair. “Are you sure?”

Are you kidding me?

“Yes, I’m pretty sure I know who my boyfriend is Hyunwoo-shi.” Jimin said flatly. He could feel Jeongguk stiffen behind him but he didn’t look up.

Hyunwoo scoffed. “Jimin he’s clearly not a good boyfriend.”

Jimin’s hands stilled.

“Excuse me?” He asked lowly.

“Look at him! You need someone who will listen to you and take care of you and I can tell that he’s not the type to do that. He’s not right for you.”

“Are you are?”

Hyunwoo puffed up his chest again and gave Jimin a lazy grin. “Of course.”

Jimin snorted. “Alright. We’re done here.”

Jimin got out of his chair, grabbing his drink and lancing his fingers together with Jeongguk’s. Jeongguk got the message and started to lead him away.

“H-hey wait!” Hyunwoo scrambled out of his own chair and Jimin groaned under his breath. He was starting to get irritated and upset with him now.

“Hyunwoo-shi, I’m not interested.” Jimin said sternly. He glanced around the cafe to find a few pairs of eyes on them. It made him even more irritated that Hyunwoo thought it was appropriate to do something like this in a public place. “And you’re causing a scene.”

Hyunwoo ignored him and glared at Jeongguk. “What do you have that I don’t?”

Jeongguk’s brow furrowed.

“Ignore him Jeongguk, let’s just go.” Jimin whispered.

“Hey! I’m talking to you!”

“Sir…” The barista Jeongguk talked to earlier stepped up. “He’s deaf he can’t hear you, but you’re causing a disruption. I’m going-“

“He’s deaf?” Hyunwoo repeated in surprise. Jimin’s grip on his drink tightened as Hyunwoo smirked. “Looks like I have a lot that he doesn’t-“

And just like that, Jimin’s temper snapped.

There was a cry of pain as Jimin punched Hyunwoo across the jaw, hard enough to send him stumbling back into a table. Someone screamed. A hand landed and tightened on Jimin’s shoulder but he shrugged it off. He stalked up to a dazed and groaning Hyunwoo, hauling him up by his shirt.

Hyunwoo’s eyes were wide and shaking as he stared up at him.

“Don’t ever make fun of someone's disability like that.” Jimin snarled. “Especially someone who is a better person than you’ll ever be.”

Hyunwoo let out a high pitched whimper and Jimin released him. The cafe’s occupants were all staring at him in shock. Jimin cringed. He turned towards the gaping employees and bowed low to them.

“I’m so sorry for causing a disruption.” He looked down at his spilled iced coffee which was dropped when he punched Hyunwoo. “And the mess. I’ll be leaving now.”

Jimin kept his head down as he walked back to Jeongguk, taking his stunned boyfriend's hand and tugging him out of the cafe.

Jimin dragged Jeongguk down the street and around the corner when the reality of what he did finally seeped in.

He had just hit someone in public. Everyone there probably thought he was a delinquent because of his blonde hair and black clothes. Jimin came to a stop and inhaled a deep breath.

Fingers brushed against Jimin’s knuckles and he let out a hiss of pain, jerking his hand away. The skin was split and bleeding, his hand trembling from the throbs coursing through his hand. 

Jeongguk let out a small noise of sympathy, turning Jimin around and taking his hand carefully. Jeongguk examined his knuckles carefully before lowering Jimin’s hand.

“Let’s get this cleaned up.”

Jimin looked up at him in surprise. “You’re not going to ask-?”

Jeongguk shook his head. “Not right now.” He smiled thinly. “I’m still trying to wrap my head around the fact that you just punched someone.”

Jimin flushed, ducking his head. Jeongguk took his uninjured hand and pulled him into a walk again.

Jeongguk’s apartment was the closest and that’s where Jeongguk took him. As soon as he got the door unlocked he ushered Jimin into the bathroom, leaving him to stand awkwardly while he rummaged in the cupboard under the sink. Jimin worried into his bottom lip as he stared at the tension in Jeongguk’s shoulders. The adrenaline had left his bloodstream, leaving him anxious and tired.

“Let me get some ice.”

Jeongguk left the small bathroom, leaving Jimin to bury his face in his hands, leaning against the sink.

He still couldn’t believe he had actually punched someone. But he had just been so mad that someone had the nerve to say that. Jimin was sick and tired of people like that. Jeongguk didn’t deserve to be treated that way and neither did anyone else.

Jimin looked up when Jeongguk came back into the room, wrapping an ice pack in a towel. He set it aside and reached into the first aid kit for some alcohol wipes. He patted the counter and Jimin complied, hopping onto it.

Jeongguk gently cleaned the blood away, pausing whenever Jimin flinched. He worked in silence, putting on ointment and sticking a few bandaids over his knuckles. As a final touch, he lifted Jimin’s hand and pressed a soft kiss to each knuckle before releasing him. He handed the ice pack over.

“Thank you.” Jimin mumbled.

“What happened Jiminie?”

Jimin squirmed a little under Jeongguk’s stare, avoiding eye contact.

“He was being an asshole.”

“I knew that. He flirted with you and called me a terrible boyfriend. What made you punch him?”

Jimin tuned his head away but a finger slid under his chin and pulled him back. Jeongguk’s dark eyes bore into his. “Jimin.”

“He asked what you had that he didn’t.” Jimin muttered. “And a barista told him that you were deaf and didn’t understand him so he used that against you. He said that it seemed like he had a lot more than you.” Jimin’s hands clenched as he grit his teeth again. “It pissed me off.”

“So you punched him?”

Jimin nodded, peeking up at him. Jeongguk shook his head exasperatedly.

“I can fight my own battles Jimin.”

“I know.” He whispered, sinking into himself. Jeongguk’s face softened.

“I’m not mad at you Jimin. I’m upset that you hurt yourself.”

“You kissed it better so I’m alright.” Jimin blushed a little at the cheesy line, but Jeongguk just grinned.

“Hey Jimin.” He stepped in a little closer, hands coming to rest on Jimin’s knees. “Do you want to know the first through that crossed my mind when you punched him?”

Jimin snorted. “My boyfriends insane?”

Jeongguk grinned. “Close.”

Jimin pouted and Jeongguk laughed, nose scrunching.

“I thought,” he gently pushed Jimin’s knees away from each other, stepping between them. Jimin’s breath hitched as his eyes flickered from Jeongguk’s hands to his lips. “That was really hot.”

Jimin closed the distance between them, capturing Jeongguk’s lips in a messy kiss. Jeongguk let out a pleased hum, hands gripping his hips and pulling Jimin closer. The ice pack fell to the floor as Jimin’s hands slid into Jeongguk’s hair. He licked his way into Jimin’s mouth, making Jimin groan and tug at his hair lightly. Jimin broke away panting and Jeongguk kissed his way down his jaw.

Jimin’s legs tightened around Jeongguk’s hips as the younger nipped at his ear, making him gasp. Jeongguk’s lips traveled lower, and Jimin tilted his head to give him more access. His breaths came short as Jeongguk mouthed at his pulse point and-

Jimin jumped at the sound of a door opening, making Jeongguk startle as well. He drew back, eyes wide and lips red.

Jimin wanted to kiss him again.  

“What’s wrong?” Jimin shook his head, snapping himself out of it.

“Door just opened.”

Jimin strained his ears and groaned when he heard familiar humming. He buried his face into Jeongguk’s shoulder.

“You had plans with Taehyung today?!”

Jeongguk winced.

“I forgot?”

Jimin smacked him lightly on the shoulder. “You’re lucky I-“

Jimin stopped signing immediately, his heart jumping in his chest. Jeongguk blinked at him quizzically. Jimin just smiled.

“Nothing. Let’s get out of the bathroom before Taehyung starts to think something happened in here.”

Jeongguk nodded and stepped back, heading to the open bathroom door.

Once alone, Jimin took a deep breath to calm himself down.

Not yet. He couldn’t say it yet.

III.

Jeongguk made a lot of small sounds.

Jimin knew that he wasn’t aware he was doing it. After all, he couldn’t hear. Jimin kinda preferred it that way. It meant that Jeongguk didn’t get embarrassed about it and force himself to stop. Jimin liked hearing them.

It might’ve been a little creepy but Jimin had ranked the Jeongguk sounds he liked the most.

At the bottom of the list were the little irritated and displeased huffs. Jimin made it a goal since his sign language learning days not to be the recipient of those huffs. Jeongguk huffed at the dishes, his homework, and the screen when he was losing a game. He huffed when something he had been working hard on didn’t go right. It was how Jimin knew that Jeongguk didn’t like something.

Of course, there were good huffs too. Like the small huffs of laughter or when he was amused. Jimin liked those. It would make him smile and laugh when he heard them. He also liked the little hums. Those would appear when Jimin would cuddle into his side or kiss him softly. They would appear when he hugged Jimin from behind and rested his chin on his shoulder. Jeongguk always hummed when Jimin carded his fingers through his hair, scratching his nails lightly across his scalp.

When Jeongguk signed there were small clicks and whispers that followed, like he was speaking softly. Jimin liked those too.

But Jimin’s favorites?

Well those were the sounds.

The groans Jimin would pull from his lips when he straddled him, sucked hickey’s into his neck, or tugged on his hair. The pleasure filled hisses when Jimin would bite down just a bit too hard or leave scratches on his back. The gasps and moans caused by skin sliding against skin, creating the perfect friction that left both of them breathless. The whines and whimpers that fell out do his mouth when Jimin teased him, leaving him squirming and begging with his dark eyes. The pants when they were both spent, sweaty, and satisfied.

Yes, those were Jimin’s favorites.

But the sound he loved?

The one that was at the top of the list and would be for a long time? Possibly the entire time he was with Jeongguk?

Breathing.

Simple as that.

Jimin would sometimes lay awake in bed next to him just listening to him breathe. The soft and easy puffs, his chest rising and falling without much difficulty. Jimin would match his pace, their inhales and exhales matching. It was how Jimin would fall asleep most nights.

It was how Jimin knew that he loved him.

IV.

“No that’s not what I said and you know it!”

“You did! You totally did!”

Jimin fell into Jeongguk’s side and he laughed, and Jeongguk smiled while wrapping an arm around his waist.

All of their friends were gathered together in Taehyung’s living room, talking over drinks. They had already had dinner, provided by Seokjin and Hoseok and now the two were passing out the deserts. Yoongi had his head on his boyfriend Namjoon’s lap, who had seamlessly fit into their group when they were all introduced a month ago. Taehyung was alone on the couch, arguing passionately with Yoongi.

“You said that if Namjoon ever asked you out on a date you’d dance to a girl group song.”

“Taehyung-ah your memory is screwed up.”

“No! I remember you saying that as well!” Hoseok countered, smiling evilly as he joined Taehyung on the couch. Seokjin sat down on Taehyung’s other side, pulling Taehyung into him so he was half on his lap.

“Face it Yoongi-chi, you said it. We have multiple witnesses.” Seokjin grinned, putting a giant spoonful of ice cream in his mouth.

Yoongi blushed. “I’m not doing it.”

Namjoon chuckled, his dimples popping.

“I think you’d look cute Yoongi-hyung.”

Yoongi’s blush deepened and he got off Namjoon’s lap. “What song am I doing?”

Jimin laughed again as Taehyung shot up in joy, fumbling for his phone. Yoongi got up and sauntered to the middle of the room. After some debate, Yoongi finally picked a song and Taehyung hooked his phone up to the speaker.

The whole room erupted into laughter as Yoongi danced quite terribly to one of Blackpink’s songs. Jimin was in tears at this point. Yoongi had fun with it, swinging his hips exaggeratedly and making unattractive faces. Namjoon smiled softly at him through the whole thing, making Jimin’s heart warm. He had been wary around the tall destructive man at first, but he had seen the way he looked at Yoongi and started to accept him.

“They’re cute.” Jimin signed privately to Jeongguk.

“Yoongi-hyung and Namjoon-hyung?” Jeongguk glanced between them. “We’re cuter.”

Jimin giggled and gave him a quick peck. “Yeah, we are.”

“Yeah Yoongi-chi! Woo!” Seokjin cheered, loud and obnoxious.

“Good job Yoongi-hyung.” Jimin said teasingly. Yoongi raised an eyebrow at him.

“Was that some sass I heard Jimin-ah?”

Jeongguk blinked innocently. “I think you’re hearing things wrong. I didn’t hear any sass. Jimin’s innocent.”

Jimin cackled while Yoongi spluttered for a few seconds. Taehyung groaned.

“I hate it when he does that.”

“Jeongguk, were you the annoying kid that would pretend not to hear your mother when she’d yell at you to do the dishes?” Namjoon asked.

Jimin tensed. It was a harmless comment and Namjoon probably didn’t realize what he had said. But still-

“Maybe.” Jeongguk grinned. “She caught on after a few times though.”

Everyone laughed, but Jimin was frozen, eyes glued to the side of Jeongguk’s head.

What?

Jimin grabbed Jeongguk’s sleeve, catching his attention.

“Jeongguk, what do you mean?”

Jeongguk’s expression flickered into confusion.

“What?”

“What do you mean you were one of those kids that ignored your mom when she called for you?”

“Ohhh.” Taehyung smirked. “Jimin’s mad at you for being one of those kids Jeongguk!”

Jimin shook his head.

“That’s not what I-“ He stopped and took a deep breath. “You could hear?”

The room went silent. Jeongguk’s eyes widened, his lips parting in an ‘o.’

“He never told you?” Taehyung whispered, disbelief written all over his face.

“Told me what?” Jimin asked shakily. But he knew. He knew what he meant. Jimin looked around the room. No one else looked shocked. No one else was surprised. Jimin’s throat tightened. “You all knew?”

“Jiminie-“ Yoongi started off carefully.

“Even Namjoon-hyung?” Jeongguk grabbed Jimin’s arm to try to get this attention but Jimin shrugged him off. Namjoon winced.

“It was mentioned in passing. I wasn’t told-“

Jimin stopped listening, getting to his feet.

“Jimin-“

“Hey Jiminie don’t-“

“Come on-“

Jimin ignored them all, swiftly walking out of the living room and to the door. Jimin’s hands shook as he fumbled with his coat, struggling to button it up. He shoved on his shoes, threw open the door, then slammed it shut behind him.

Then he started walking.

He got down the steps when he heard someone following him and he whirled around. Jeongguk was there, panic written into every section of body language.

“Don’t.” Jimin held up a hand. “I don’t want to talk to you right now.”

“Jimin let me explain-“

“What is there to explain?!” Jimin shouted, tears building up. “We’ve been dating for ten months, ten! And somehow I was the last person to know that you weren’t always deaf!”

Jeongguk’s eyes were filled with pain. “Jimin please.”

“Jeongguk, even Namjoon-hyung knows! You didn’t meet him until three weeks ago! And I had to find out by some comment he made about it!”

“Jimin I thought I had told you!”

“You thought- How could you even- argh!” Jimin threw up his hands, too frustrated to even sign. He spun on his heel and stalked away. He could hear Jeongguk jog after him and pretty soon he was stepping in front of Jimin.

“I’m sorry.”

“Sorry doesn’t cut it Jeongguk.”

“Jimin I didn’t think it was important.”

Jimin stopped.

“How could you not think that’s important?! Jeongguk for some part of your life you could hear. Is that not important to you?”

Jeongguk regarded him coolly. “No, it’s not important because it doesn’t make a difference to me. I can’t hear now and I won’t ever hear again.”

Jimin scoffed and stepped past him. Jeongguk grabbed his arm.

“Jimin-hyung please.”

Jimin shook his head, hands shaking violently as he signed sloppily. “I need a little time Jeongguk. I just… let me think.”

Jeongguk let go of his arm.

Jimin shoved his hands in his pockets, turning away from him and walking down the street.

He didn’t follow.

Jimin let out a shuddering breath when he heard a door slam shut. He turned, but Jeongguk wasn’t there.

Jimin kept walking.

.o0o.

Jimin’s thoughts were a jumbled mess.

Jeongguk had lost his hearing. He hadn’t been born without it. But when did he lose it? How? Was he a child? Was he an adult? Was he a teenager?

Why hadn’t Jimin heard this before?

Was it because he avoided talking about things that required hearing? Had it been mentioned and Jimin just hadn’t been paying attention? Had Jeongguk told him and he just forgot?

No, Jimin would have never forgotten something as important as that.

Then did Jeongguk not want him to know? He said that he thought he had told Jimin, but something as big as that would have been a huge conversation. It would have been a vivid memory for both of them. So was it an excuse?

Jeongguk used to be able to hear. 

How could he not mention that to Jimin? Jimin loved him and he didn’t tell him.

Maybe… maybe Jimin wasn’t as important to Jeongguk as he thought.

Maybe Jeongguk didn’t love him.

Why would he?

Jimin was annoying. He was clingy and needy. He was constantly interrupting Jeongguk and talked for hours on end. Jimin distracted him when he needed to edit videos or do his homework. Jimin constantly sought validation and compliments. He was vain and needed someone to constantly tell him that he was beautiful and good looking. He would get upset over the smallest things and hold grudges when he shouldn’t. He was petty and mean and-

“I found him.”

Jimin looked up through watery eyes from his hiding place underneath a park slide. Taehyung was crouched in front of him, his phone to his ear. He smiled at him, but it seemed a bit forced.

“Hmm. Yeah let Jeongguk know. I’m going to talk to him first though.” Jimin looked away, wiping his sleeve over his eyes. He sniffled, burying his face in his knees. “I won’t take long.”

Jimin peeked at Taehyung through his hair and watched him put his phone away before sitting down across from Jimin. He didn’t say anything. He just stared, brown eyes thoughtful. Jimin sniffed again, hugging himself tighter.

“...Jeongguk’s upset.”

Jimin didn’t respond. Taehyung sighed.

“You’ve been gone for over an hour. We got worried.”

Jimin turned away from him.

“He really thought he told you Jiminie.”

“Well he didn’t.” Jimin snapped, head whipping back. Taehyung raised an eyebrow and Jimin shrank, guilt curling up. He wasn’t mad at Taehyung. “Sorry.”

Neither of them said anything for a long moment. Jimin’s eyes started to sting from the crying and he wanted to close them, to go to sleep and wake up knowing it was just a weird dream.

If only he was naive enough.

“It’s hard for him to talk about.” Taehyung finally said. “I mean, I bet you can imagine how devastated someone would be. Going from having all five of your senses and then suddenly losing one in a freak accident.” His voice was quiet and pained. “I’m the only one who knows the full story; how it happened. It took Jeongguk a whole year of knowing me to even mention that he wasn’t always deaf.”

“I’m his boyfriend Tae.”

Taehyung frowned at him. “Just because you’re his boyfriend doesn’t automatically mean that you get to know everything. That’s a right that’s earned, not a package deal with the relationship.”

“So you’re saying I haven’t earned it.” Jimin whispered. Tears pricked at his eyes again, making the stinging worse. “Nice to know that he doesn’t care about me enough to tell me-“

“Stop.”

Jimin’s mouth snapped shut at the ire in Taehyung’s voice. He looked up with wide eyes. Taehyung was scowling down at him in distaste, making Jimin curl further into himself.

“You’re twenty-five Jimin. Don’t be a child and play that toxic card. Don’t say, ‘if he actually cared for me he’d tell me this or do this for me.’ You know damn well that Jeongguk would break his back for you because you’re his whole world. So don’t give me that crap. You know better.”

His tone was cold and sharp, but they were true. Jimin was being a toxic brat. But he was also mad and upset, so the words didn’t sink in.

“I was the last person to know!” Jimin snarled. Taehyung’s face went passive. “The last one. Do you know how awful that feels? To be the last one to know something so important?”

“Important to who?” Taehyung challenged.

“Important to me.”

Taehyung rolled his eyes. “The world doesn’t revolve around you Jimin. The only person it should be important to is Jeongguk, and he’s come to terms with it. You getting all huffy and upset because he didn’t tell you something he doesn’t care about affects him more than it affects you.

“He’s not a charity case. He’s not someone that needs to be felt bad for. He doesn’t need you feeling bad for something that happened years ago that he’s already spent far too long getting over. Yes, he used to be able to hear. Yes, he had something tragic happen that made him lose his hearing. Yes, he is now deaf and can’t hear anything. What is he supposed to do about it?”

Jimin was crying again, hiccuping and covering his face with his hands. He didn’t see Taehyung’s expression soften, but he did feel Taehyung wrap him up in a hug, letting him lean on him.

“After he told me how he lost his hearing I pitied him a lot.” Taehyung whispered. “I tried to baby him and he got upset. Do you want to know what he told me?”

Jimin nodded, clutching Taehyung’s shirt tightly.

“He said, ‘I’m not going to magically regain my hearing if you coddle me and act like I can’t do anything. I lost my hearing and that’s that. I’m not going to spend the rest of my life feeling sorry for myself. Don’t mock me by doing the same thing I promised myself I wouldn’t do.’”

He was quiet for a moment before continuing, his voice a whisper.

“Jeongguk doesn’t need to be treated like glass. He doesn’t need pity. He doesn’t need someone to hold his hand while he crosses the street.” Taehyung pulled away, looking Jimin in the eye. “He just needs to be treated like a normal person.

“He just wants you to love him for who he is.”

It clicked.

Jimin understood.

“Okay.” He whispered hoarsely.

“You understand now?”

Jimin nodded. Taehyung grinned and pulled him into another hug. Jimin snuggled into him, breathing in and out slowly.

He felt Taehyung look up and heard him sigh.

“He just couldn’t be patient, could he?”

“What?” Jimin pulled away and Taehyung pointed. Jimin turned to see Jeongguk a few feet away, staring at the two of them hesitantly as he shifted his feet.

“I told Jin-hyung to tell Jeongguk to let me talk to you first but I should’ve known he wouldn’t have listened.” Taehyung sighed again, but he was smiling fondly. He looked down at Jimin. “You ready to talk to him Jimbles?”

Jimin laughed at the nickname. “Yeah.”

The two of them helped each other up and Taehyung was dragging Jimin over to Jeongguk before he had both of his feet under him. Jeongguk smiled hesitantly but it grew when Jimin gave him a shy smile.

“I’m sorry.” Jimin instantly said. “I over reacted. I shouldn’t have gotten so upset.”

“No, I should have told you-“

Jimin shook his head. “I didn’t need to know. It wouldn’t have changed anything.”

Jeongguk smiled softly.

“Well this is cute but I’m going to go.” Taehyung piped up, starling Jimin. He had forgotten he was there. “Is Jin-hyung and Hobi-hyung still there?”

“They were when I left.”

Taehyung grinned. “Perfect.”

Jimin and Jeongguk watched him leave, noting the extra slip in his steps. 

“There is something going on between them.”

“I wouldn’t be surprised if Hoseok-hyung and Jin-hyung ask him out soon. Oh Tae will just get tired of waiting and do it himself.”

Jimin giggled, leaning into Jeongguk’s side. Jeongguk relaxed at the touch, and guilt instantly made its way to the surface of Jimin’s emotions. He was the reason Jeongguk had been so tense and anxious.

“Hyung I want to tell you. I should have told you a long time ago.”

Jimin looked up at him, biting his lip. “You really don’t have to. Don’t feel obligated just because I got upset.”

“I want to.” Jeongguk’s eyes were soft. He took Jimin’s hand in his and kissed the tips of his fingers making Jimin melt. “Will you listen?”

Jimin nodded, not trusting his voice. He hated when Jeongguk kissed his fingers because it always made his legs turn to jelly.

Jeongguk led him over to the swing set, the brightest area in the park, and sat him down. He sat down in the other swing and Jimin could instantly tell he was nervous. Jimin took his hand, squeezing it comfortingly. Jeongguk smiled fleetingly before pulling his hand away.

“I was fifteen when I got into a really bad car accident. I was riding my bike home from school and a driver wasn’t paying attention. They didn’t see me and moved into the bike lane to make a turn. I don’t remember much, just a honk, the squeal of tires, and then my head was smacking into the ground.

“There were flashes of fire, lights, pain… the smell of burnt rubber and gasoline. I remember there was a really loud popping sound and my ears ringing painfully before I couldn’t hear anything.” Jeongguk’s hands were shaking violently and Jimin had to guess on some of the words. “I slipped in and out of consciousness so I didn’t understand what was happening. Apparently, the vehicle had flipped after hitting me. I had flown off my bike and gotten trapped underneath it. The car had a leaky gas line and it caused a fire in the engine. By the time an ambulance had gotten there the vehicle had exploded.” Jimin gasped, his hands flying up to cover his mouth. “The fire department got control of the fire and what remained of the vehicle and a paramedic saw my legs peeking out from underneath and dragged me out.” He shook his head. “The driver had been killed when the vehicle exploded and I… I should have been dead too. I shouldn’t have been alive. But somehow I was.

“I woke up three days later in the hospital with both of my legs, three ribs, and an arm broken. I had also fractured my skull. They had to dig melted metal out of my skin all over my body. You’ve probably seen the scars.” Jimin bit his lip nodding. They had caught his attention time and time again but he had never asked. He had been preoccupied with… other things. Now he regretted it. “I was disoriented and confused. Doctors and nurses were trying to talk to me and ask me questions but I couldn’t hear them at all. They thought it was normal, but after a few hours of being awake and still not being able to hear anything they did a whole bunch of tests. The head trauma and being under the car when it exploded permanently damaged my ears to the point where a cochlear implant wouldn’t help me.”

Jeongguk smiled painfully, staring down at the ground.

“One day I was a healthy fifteen year old who had tons of friends, a passion for music, and a knack for getting in trouble. The next I was a broken body that could no longer listen to music, hear what my friends were saying, or even hear my parents cry.”

Jimin couldn’t take it anymore. 

He leapt out of the swing to tackle Jeongguk, taking them both down to the ground. Jimin cradled his head in his hands, not caring that his knuckles took the damage of the fall instead. Jeongguk let out a small wheeze.

Jimin buried his face in his chest, his body racked with sobs. He hated that he cried so much. He hated that Jeongguk had to go through so much pain. It physically hurt Jimin that he couldn’t do anything to help him.

Except love him.

Jeongguk’s arms wrapped around his back, pulling him closer. He nuzzled his nose into Jimin’s hair, comforting him best he could. Jimin shuddered and sank into him, trying to mold himself closer. It made Jeongguk chuckle, and Jimin looked up at him with a wavering pout.

“Don’t laugh at me.”

Jeongguk grinned, his eyes shiny. “I can’t help it. You’re such a cry baby.”

And then Jeongguk was crying as well. Tears slipped down his cheeks, hot and salty against his skin. His breathing hitched and he ducked his head into the crook of Jimin’s neck. Jimin slid his fingers into Jeongguk’s hair, carding through it as he shushed him softly.

Jeongguk hated crying. Jimin knew that he got embarrassed and hid himself from the world for a bit whenever he cried. He hated being vulnerable. He would always whine and shy away when Jimin teased him about it, smacking his hands away when Jimin tried to pinch his red cheeks or press featherlight kisses against his swollen eyes. (Jimin always managed to do it)

But he always cried when Jimin cried.

It was another thing Jimin loved about him. He never allowed Jimin to cry alone.

Jimin swayed them from side to side gently, his own tears drying as he listened to Jeongguk’s hitched sobs. His collar was damp and Jeongguk’s breath was hot and shaky against his neck. But he was calming down.

After another moment Jeongguk pulled away, avoiding Jimin’s eyes as he lifted a hand to wipe at his eyes. Jimin didn’t try to tease him this time.

“Guk?”

“What?”

“Thank you for telling me.”

Jeongguk finally looked him in the eyes, smiling tiredly. He pressed a gentle kiss to his lips.

“You’re welcome Minnie.”

Jimin exhaled shakily. “I know you don’t want to hear this, but I want to say it at least once.” Jeongguk sighed softly but nodded. It was clear that he already knew what Jimin was going to say. “I’m so sorry that happened to you.”

“But I’m okay now. So please don’t try to-“

“-coddle you. I know.” Jimin giggled. “Taehyung told me not to do that or you’d get mad.” Jeongguk rolled his eyes before nodding with a big smile.

Gosh he loved him.

Jimin’s stomach twisted.

“Jeongguk? I have… I have something to tell you.”

Jeongguk blinked curiously and a bit nervously, but he nodded.

Jimin inhaled then exhaled. His chest felt like it was going to burst. But he couldn’t raise his hands. They stayed like stone in his lap. But he had to say it.

So he did.

He leaned in, his lips brushing against Jeongguk’s ear. Jeongguk held his breath and Jimin felt him shiver.

“I love you.” He whispered.

And then he was pulling away and smiling at Jeongguk’s pout. It wasn’t fair for him to do it like this, but he just wasn’t ready to say it any other way. But he had to tell someone. He had to voice it or it would have suffocated him.

“Jimin!” He whined.

Jimin laughed, falling into his chest.

“Jimin that’s not fair.” He continued to pout. “What did you want to tell me?”

Jimin just smiled and kissed him. Jeongguk melted like putty under the touch, whining when Jimin pulled away.

“I’ll tell you later, baby.” Jeongguk nodded, a dazed look in his eyes. Jimin finally got off of him and helped him up. “Do you think we go back to Tae’s or turn in for the night?”

As they walked back to Taehyung’s apartment, Jimin’s heart still pounding, he thought, 

Soon. I’ll tell you soon.

V.

“What are you doing baby?”

Jimin sighed, leaning back into the arms wrapped around his waist. Jeongguk propped his chin on Jimin’s shoulder, brown eyes flicking across the screen. Jimin saw the spark of curiosity flare in his expression as he looked at the apartment listings.

“Remember how Yoongi-hyung was talking about getting an apartment with Namjoon?” Jeongguk nodded. “Well, they decided to do it. Yoongi talked to me about it last night. He’s not leaving me alone to pay rent by myself until I find a new roommate though.”

“Oh. Then why…?” He gestured at the screen.

“Well.” Jimin pursed his lips. “I don’t have the greatest history with roommates. So I’ve been looking at places I could rent by myself.”

Not really. Jimin had been looking halfheartedly, not really thinking much about it.

Truth was, ever since Yoongi had mentioned getting an apartment with Namjoon, Jimin had been subtly hinting to Jeongguk that he wanted to move in with him. Jeongguk lived alone, but his apartment was spacious and definitely had room for one more person. Jimin was there 80% of the time anyway. They had been dating almost a year, their anniversary being two weeks away, and yet they hadn’t taken that step. 

Meanwhile Yoongi had been dating Namjoon for four months and Jimin caught him looking at rings the other day.

Yoongi. The guy who took three months just to ask Namjoon to be his boyfriend. Looking at rings. 

Okay, maybe they were promise rings and not engagement rings. Maybe Jimin had flipped out without knowing that. Maybe Namjoon had been in the other room and heard him.

...maybe he had accidentally caused a major argument between the two because Namjoon also thought Yoongi had been looking at engagement rings. (They were all good in the end)

But that wasn’t the point.

The point was that Yoongi and Namjoon were moving in together when Jimin and Jeongguk were still living in separate apartments after a year of dating each other.

That was a little strange.

It was also a little strange that Jeongguk had never made any mention of the three words that were constantly wrapped around Jimin’s tongue, but it wasn’t like Jimin had said anything either. (Well, he did but- not the point!)

The point was that Jimin was jealous.

Jeongguk’s face twisted. “Oh.”

Jimin waited for him to continue, his heart pounding a little in his chest. Maybe Jeongguk was going to-

“What about that one? It’s close to the dance studio.” He pointed to the screen, smiling proudly that he had found something for Jimin.

Jimin gave him a strained smile. “Looks nice. I might give them a call.”

.o0o.

“He’s clueless! Absolutely oblivious!”

“He can’t be that bad-“

“Tae, I literally said this. ‘Jeongguk don’t you think your apartment is big enough for two people?’ He just gave me the most confused look ever and said, ‘I guess.’ How much more obvious can I get?!”

Jimin shoved a cupcake in his mouth, chewing angrily. Taehyung shrunk back a little.

“Maybe… maybe just ask if you can move in with him? Sometimes you just need to be blunt.” Taehyung offered.

Jimin’s eyes snapped up to him, already snarling.

“I can’t do that! That means I lose.” Jimin peeled the wrapping off of another cupcake and took a huge bite of that as well. 

“...was it a competition?”

“He means that he doesn’t want to be the first to ask.” Seokjin entered the room with another tray of small cupcakes for them to taste test. They were currently in Seokjin and Hoseok’s house, seated around Seokjin’s grand table.

Another couple to feel jealous of.

Taehyung’s eyebrows furrowed. “Why is it a bad thing to ask first?”

“Because naturally when Jeongguk first heard that Jimin needed to either find a roommate or a new place to live he should have asked him to move in with him.” Seokjin set the tray down, before sitting next to Jimin. “The fact that he’s not asking means there’s something wrong.”

“And I don’t know what it is!” Jimin cried. “I don’t think I’ve done anything wrong.”

“I’m confused.”

Seokjin rolled his eyes and patted Taehyung on the hand.

“Babe, if you hinted that you wanted to move in with me and Hobi and we didn’t react to the hint, what would you think?”

Taehyung pouted. “That you didn’t want me around.”

“Do you get it now?”

Taehyung nodded. Jimin looked up at them, biting his lip.

“Why hasn’t Taehyung moved in with you guys?”

The three of them had begun dating two months ago after Taehyung finally got sick and tired of waiting for them to ask him out and proceeded to kiss both of them senseless. Jimin, who had been in the room, left as quickly as possible, not wanting to see something he didn’t want to see. The next morning, the three of them happily announced that they were all dating. Seokjin and Hoseok lived together, but Taehyung was still living in his apartment.

Seokjin sighed longingly. “We’re too far away from the university. Otherwise Taehyung-ah would be living here too.”

“I’m almost done with my degree, hyung.” Taehyung promised. Seokjin took his hand and squeezed it, making Taehyung smile.

Jimin pouted and polished off his cupcake.

.o0o.

Jimin wanted to keep stalling to give Jeongguk a chance to get his act together, but he could tell Yoongi was getting restless. His friend tried to be patient with him, but it was becoming common for him to ask Jimin if he had found a roommate or another apartment.

Jimin was out of time.

So he started to actually look.

He found a few places that he liked that were in his price range. Some of them were a little far from his job, but Jimin could manage. 

But there was one apartment that just called to him.

The pictures were beautiful, immediately drawing Jimin’s attention. It was a one bed two bath with an extra small room for an office. The floors were all kempas wood, which caught in the sunlight streaming from the floor to ceiling windows covering one wall. It was a living room dining room combo, but it wasn’t cramped. The guest bathroom was a little plain, but it had tile instead of wood and was still nice.

But it was the master bedroom that caught Jimin’s attention.

The bathroom was enough to make Jimin emotionally attached. It had a jacuzzi tub and a ton of space. A giant mirror lined with lights covered the wall behind the sink. It was perfect.

Jimin was already sold.

His jaw dropped when he clicked on the picture for the bedroom part of it.

Jimin could have mistaken the bedroom for the living room. It was huge. Jimin could fit a king sized bed, a giant dresser, a vanity table, and probably his whole office corner into the room and still have enough room for more furniture. There were bookshelves built into the wall. And the best part? The west side of the room had an alcove to fit a window bench, wide enough for it to be a single bed on its own. The window had a beautiful view of a rooftop garden on the building across from the apartment complex.

Jimin wanted.

It was probably his dream apartment just from the bedroom alone. It was perfect for him.

Jimin looked at the price.

His heart shattered.

He couldn’t afford that. It was almost double the rent he and Yoongi had to pay now. If he could barely pay for the apartment he was living in now without splitting the rent he definitely couldn’t afford this one.

Unless…

Jimin bit his lip and called the apartment manager.

This was a terrible idea.

.o0o.

“Why did I need to come along?!” Taehyung hissed in Jimin’s ear.

“Because! I don’t want him to think I’m apartment hunting with him!” Jimin hissed back.

“But that’s literally what you’re doing!”

“But I don’t want him to think I’m looking for an apartment we should share.”

“But I thought that’s what you wanted!”

“Of course it’s what I wanted! But I don’t want him to think I’m forcing him-“ Jimin threw up his hands in frustration, raising his voice to a normal volume. “Why are we whispering he’s deaf!”

“Oh right.” Taehyung's voice was at a normal volume this time and he leaned away from Jimin’s ear. Jeongguk, Taehyung, and Jimin were driving around the city to the different apartments Jimin had asked to look at. He had been impressed with the third one he had seen and had told the apartment manager (nice older man) to look out for a call from him. They were now on the seventh apartment, climbing the stairs because the elevator was broken.

Not a good first impression.

“Ah! Here we are! 2b12!” The apartment manager stuck the key in the door, panting slightly from the climb. Jeongguk looked back at Jimin and grinned, taking his hand and pulling him forward.

“It looks nice!” Jeongguk said once he had looked around the room. Jimin rolled his eyes and marched straight to the bathroom. He looked under the sink and- yep. Water dripped from a leaky pipe into a bucket and mold was growing on the back wall.

Yeah. Nice.

“I’m not sure I’m interested.” Jimin smiled pleasantly at the apartment manager that had gone pale once Jimin had made his discovery. “Thank you for your time though.”

“O-of course! Are you sure though? You haven’t seen the bedroom yet-“

“Oh I’m sure.” Jimin’s smile tightened.

The apartment manager made another poor attempt to get Jimin to take another look while the group made their way back down the stairs but Jimin shut him down. The only reason Jimin had looked at this place was because of how close it was to his job.

But Jimin still had standards.

“You’re a bit scary hyung.” Jeongguk said once they were back in the car. Jimin glanced up from his list before glancing back down.

“I’m not going to pay money to live in a shit hole.”

Taehyung snorted in the backseat.

“That’s… fair.” Jeongguk frowned. “Are you okay Jimin? You seem a little upset.”

Upset?

Upset?

Yeah I’m a little upset! Jimin wanted to scream. Because I want to move in with you but you’re not asking and I don’t want to be the one to ask! And I know that’s petty but I’m stubborn as f-

“I’m alright. Just a little tired and frustrated that I’m not finding a good place.” Jimin said instead, clamping an imaginary hand over the voice screaming in his head. “Apartment hunting is rough. Especially since I don’t have anyone to split the rent with.”

Hint. Hint.

“Yeah, it’s tough. But you’ll find a place.” Jeongguk smiled reassuringly as turned on the engine.

“Jeongguk you dummy.” Taehyung muttered.

Jimin thunked his head on the door, groaning into his hands.

.o0o.

Taehyung got a text from his boyfriends and ditched Jimin at the last apartment. Jimin was a little upset before he remembered that it was the apartment that he was seeing.

The one he couldn’t afford.

But Jimin still skipped up to the apartment complex with a wide grin that made it hard for him to see. The apartment manager was a small little old lady that Jimin instantly loved once she called him a strong handsome young man. She cooed when Jeongguk joined his side, instantly launching into a story about her granddaughter that lived in the United States with her wife. The elevator ride up to the ninth floor was spent with Jimin giggling over her stories.

He hadn’t even seen the apartment and he already loved it here.

But the apartment took his breath away. It looked even more beautiful in person than just the pictures.

“It’s a great price for such a nice apartment, don’t you think?” Ahnjeong commented as she waddled into the room.

“It’s beautiful.” Jimin breathed.

“I’ve had a lot of offers for this place, but I’ve turned them down. No ones been a right fit.” She eyed Jimin carefully. “Would you like to see the bedroom?”

“Yes please!”

Jimin floated behind her into the master bedroom, leaving Jeongguk behind. His breath hitched as soon as he stepped in the room. He carefully walked around, caressing the walls and reverently looking at every detail. His gaze fell on the window bench and he couldn’t help but take a seat and look out the window.

“So you like it?” Ahnjeong asked as she came to stand beside him.

“God I love it.” Jimin laughed breathlessly. He wanted it so bad. He could see himself making this his home.  The place that he yearned to go back to after a day of work. In his head he was already painting the walls, shopping for furniture, adding his own nick nacks and-

He couldn’t afford it.

“I’d be willing to make you an offer. You seem perfect for this place.”

Jimin tried to swallow the lump in his throat, tears pricking at his eyes. He turned back to Ahnjeong.

“I’d love to, but I can’t… I can’t afford this place.”

Ahnjeong’s light brown eyes widened. “You can’t?”

Jimin shook his head miserably.

Her eyes softened. “You made the biggest mistake out there, window shopping out of your price range.”

“I know.” Jimin sniffled.

“I’m sorry dearie, but the price I had listed is the lowest I’d be willing to go.”

Jimin gave her a watery smile. “That’s okay. Thank you for showing it to me anyway.”

Jimin stood from the window bench, feeling his heart break as he stepped away from it. He had never felt this connected to a place before. He had already made up his mind that this is where he wanted to live. But he couldn’t.

Jeongguk was leaning against the doorframe, his eyes wide as he scanned the room.

“Jimin, I think this is the best place we’ve seen. This is beautiful.”

“I know.” Jimin whispered hoarsely.

Jeongguk’s brow furrowed as he took in Jimin’s heartbroken face. “What’s wrong Minnie? Do you not-“

“I can’t afford it. It’s four times the rent I pay now.” Jimin muttered miserably. He waited for Jeongguk to step in, to say that Jimin could afford it because they would be living together. But he didn’t. Jimin swallowed the lump in his throat. “Let’s just go.”

Jimin brushed past him, tears slipping down his face.

He shouldn’t have gone to the apartment. It was already clear to him that Jeongguk didn’t want to be moving in with him anytime soon. He shouldn't have gotten his hopes up.

.o0o.

On the morning of their first year anniversary, Jeongguk woke him up with breakfast in bed. Jimin blushed all morning long because Jeongguk insisted on pampering him by feeding him and peppering kisses all over his face. Jimin had spent the night at his apartment because Yoongi had wanted Namjoon to come over. Yoongi hadn’t even let Jimin go home to pack an overnight bag. He packed one for him and dropped it off at Jimin’s workplace.

It was suspicious.

But Jimin didn’t mind because he got to spend all afternoon with his boyfriend.

Well not all afternoon.

Jimin had gone to pick up some paperwork he needed to sign to lease the apartment he had decided on. Jimin would turn it in two days..

It made him depressed.

But he couldn’t be sad on his anniversary.

Jimin hadn’t been worried about making plans because Jeongguk had claimed he had it all covered. They spent the morning cuddling in bed, but for lunch Jeongguk took him out to a street fair. Jimin loved it and definitely ate too much food, but he was happy. After lunch Jeongguk took him to an aquarium. He was doing all of the little things that they were unable to do because Jimin had been in his senior year of college and had been loaded up with work.

If possible, Jimin fell in love with him again.

For the evening, Jeongguk took them back to his apartment to get dressed for the five star restaurant he had apparently made a reservation for. Jimin’s jaw had dropped when Jeongguk told him the place.

It would cost two of Jimin’s paychecks for him to even order an appetizer.

“How are you paying for all of this?” Jimin asked as they were led to their seats.

Jeongguk shrugged. “I’ve been saving. And the YouTube channel has been doing well.”

That was true.

Jimin was proud to admit that Jeongguk’s channel had gained massive popularity in the past couple of months. He was only about two hundred thousand subscribers away from a million.

He could say he had a celebrity boyfriend now.

The food was divine. It came in small portions, but each bite was a burst of flavor in Jimin’s mouth.

He did not tear up over the desert.

(He teared up over desert)

((But that was okay because Jeongguk had to excuse himself to go cry in the bathroom over it))

It was a perfect night.

Now they were walking back to Jeongguk’s car. Jimin felt warm and completely content with how their anniversary had gone.

“After you.” Jeongguk bowed as he opened Jimin’s door for him. Jimin rolled his eyes but giggled at the theatrics. Jeongguk grinned, leaning in to kiss his cheek before closing the door and rushing to the other side of the vehicle. Jimin sighed happily as Jeongguk slid into the driver's seat. It was only when he started the car that Jimin remembered his gift.

“Jeongguk.” Jimin grabbed his arm. Jeongguk turned, blinking and Jimin blushed. “I have something for you.”

He reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out a black and silver promise ring. Jeongguk’s eyes widened at the sight of it.

“Uhm. Yoongi-hyung gave me this idea when he was looking at promise rings for him and Joon-hyung. I know you don’t wear a lot of jewelry but I thought it would be cute.” Jimin shyly offered it to him. “Happy anniversary.”

Jeongguk’s mouth stretched into a blinding grin. He took the offered ring and slid it onto his middle finger.

“Thank you, it’s beautiful.” Jimin blushed again and held up his own hand. A matching ring was on his right hand.

“See we match.”

Jeongguk nodded, nose scrunching in happiness. He leaned in to kiss him. Jimin sighed into it, his hands coming up to cup the back of his neck. His mouth moved gently against his, keeping it chaste. Jeongguk pulled back after a moment, his eyes bright.

“I have a gift for you too.” Jeongguk reached behind him into the backseat. Jimin’s heart jumped excitedly until Jeongguk placed it in his hands.

“A blindfold?” Jimin had to admit, he was a bit disappointed.

Jeongguk chucked. “That’s not the gift. I just want it to be a surprise. I have to take you to it.”

“Oh?” Jimin raised an eyebrow. He couldn’t resist the perfect opportunity to tease him. “This is a little kinky Jeongguk.”

Jeongguk smirked, sending a shiver down Jimin’s spine.

“Only if you want it to be.”

“O-oh.”

Well that backfired.

Jeongguk threw his head back and laughed before tapping the blindfold through his giggles.

“Put it on hyung. I’ll take it off when we get there.”

Jimin frowned, but he put it on, tying it behind his head. He trusted Jeongguk.

He felt the car start to move and Jimin felt a spark of excitement run across his skin. Something told him this was going to be a nice surprise.

Jimin didn’t know how long they had been driving until he felt the car roll to a stop. He heard the engine turn off and Jeongguk’s door open and close. Jimin’s opened a few seconds later. Jeongguk gently guided him out of the vehicle.

“Can I take it off?”

Jimin’s hand was turned over and the word ‘no’ was traced in his palm. Jimin giggled as Jeongguk wrote carefully with his finger.

“I will guide you.”

“Okay.”

Jimin’s steps were uneasy but Jeongguk kept one hand on the small of his back. Jimin heard a beeping noise, doors swish open, and felt heat rush at his face. Jimin tried to guess what it was, but when his stomach lurched at unexpected movement he lost all guesses. He had no idea where Jeongguk was taking him.

The lurch in his stomach disappeared, and there was a ding. Jeongguk guided him forward again.

“Jeongguk where are we?”

“You’ll see.”

Jimin heard a jangle of keys and Jimin rolled his eyes.

“Jeongguk if you just took us back to your apartment I swear-“ He swallowed the rest of his words as the blindfold was tugged off and he was blinded by unexpected light. Jimin blinked furiously to adjust his eyes to the light.

His jaw dropped.

Before him was the apartment Jimin had lusted over but couldn’t have.

Only it was no longer bare. Someone had furnished it.

Jimin took a shaky step inside. He ran a hand along the dark brown loveseat, swept his eyes across the walls noting the paintings and picture frames. It was minimal, evidence of some just starting to move in, but-

Wait.

Was that his coffee table?

“Jeongguk, what is this?” He whispered, turning to his boyfriend. Jeongguk didn’t say anything. He just smiled and grabbed Jimin’s hand, tugging him to the bedroom. Jimin stumbled after him, his brain unable to understand what was going on.

Jeongguk opened the door and moved aside for Jimin to look.

Jimin gasped.

The master bedroom was furnished just like the rest of the house, but it was almost exactly how he imagined it. There was a giant king sized bed pushed up against the north wall, the silver comforter complimenting the black iron framed headboard. A soft plush rug was placed dead center in the room, some of it hiding underneath the bed. There was a dresser, a vanity, a small reading nook; the bedroom looked like it came out of one of Jimin’s daydreams.

And of course, there was the window seat.

It had been loaded up with pillows and a blanket. There was a curtain rod installed in the wall above it, the shimmery sheer curtain pushed to the side. Fairy lights twisted around the window, curling around it in a soft glow. 

The lights were off, but there were candles lit and scattered around the room, creating a romantic atmosphere.

Arms wrapped around Jimin’s waist and pulled him back into a broad chest.

“Jeongguk.” Jimin sniffled, turning in his arms. “I don’t understand. What is this? Why are we here? Why is some of my stuff here? Why-“

“Jimin, this is your new apartment.”

“W-what?”

Jeongguk grinned. “This is your new apartment.”

Jimin smacked him on the chest. “Jeongguk this isn’t funny! I can’t afford this place-“

“That’s why I’m moving in with you.”

Jimin’s mouth dropped.

Jeongguk’s eyes were serious as he stared down at Jimin. But then he saw a little hesitance.

“Unless you don’t want-?”

“You want to move in with me?” Jimin’s lower lip wobbled. Panic flooded Jeongguk’s expression.

“Yes? Do you not want-“

“You’re an idiot.” Jimin kissed him soundly, making Jeongguk melt against him. Jimin pulled away after a few moments, smiling at his boyfriends dazed look. “I’ve been dropping hints about wanting to live with you for the past two months.”

Jeongguk winced. “I know.”

“You knew?! Then why didn’t you say anything? Why didn’t you ask-“

“My apartment was too far from the dance studio.” He interrupted. “I checked my contract and it ends in about a week or so. I figured we could just find a new place together.”

Jimin softened. “Why didn’t you tell me?”

Jeongguk chucked. “Well that would have ruined my plans for an anniversary gift.”

“You’re mean.” Jimin smacked him lightly on the chest. “I honestly started to think that you didn’t want to live with me.”

Jeongguk caught his hand. “So is that a yes to me moving in?”

“You better or I’m going to break up with you.”

“Please don’t.” He laughed, but Jimin could see his shoulders sag in relief. “It’s a good thing you said yes because I think Yoongi-hyung would have killed me for making him and Namjoon move some of your furniture and things in here all day if you said no.”

“So that is my coffee table.”

“Yep. But most of the stuff is new.” He gestured to the bedroom. “A lot of your things were crap.”

“Hey! Those crappy things lasted me through college.” Jimin pulled away from him a little to survey the room again. His heart felt like it was going to burst with how happy he was. He was moving in this beautiful place with his boyfriend. “Are you sure we can pay for this?”

“I already did the numbers with Namjoon. And… I may have bargained with Ahnjeong-shi to lower the price just a little”

Jimin’s head whipped towards him with a gasp. “Jeongguk were practically swindling her at this rate!”

“Maybe.”

“Jeongguk!” Jimin chastised, but he was smiling.

“Do you like it? Or do you still want to move into that other apartment-“

“No. I want this one.” Jimin murmured. “This is the one I imagined living in with you. It’s perfect.”

Jeongguk hummed and nodded. He pecked him softly on the lips. “Happy anniversary baby.”

“Happy anniversary Jeongguk.” Jimin whispered. They stared at each other for a long moment before Jeongguk smirked cheekily.

“Do you want to use that blindfold now?”

Jimin rolled his eyes before tugging him down to kiss him. Their mouths moved firmly against each other and Jeongguk dug his fingers into Jimin’s hips. Jimin swiped his tongue over his bottom lip and Jeongguk opened up to him, moaning low in his throat when their tongues brushed.

Jimin pulled away with a mischievous smile. “Maybe another time. But, your gift was better than mine so I have to make up the difference.”

Jimin smirked when he saw Jeongguk swallow harshly.

“It’s not a competition.” Jimin raised an eyebrow. Jeongguk licked his lips nervously as his eyes flickered down to Jimin’s lips then back up. “But I wouldn’t mind getting two gifts.”

Jimin threw his head back in laughter before he leaned back in to capture Jeongguk’s mouth. He went slow this time, carefully adding more pressure. He took a step forward, making Jeongguk step back. Jimin slid his hands up Jeongguk’s chest to his shoulders, pushing his suit jacket off. It fell to the floor at his feet in a rustle of fabric. Jimin parted Jeongguk’s lips with his, nipping his bottom lip before sucking, drawing a breathy whine from the back of Jeongguk’s throat. It made Jimin’s toes curl and heat pool in his lower abdomen.

Jimin forced Jeongguk back until his knees hit the base of the bed. Both of them toppled onto the bed, the mattress creaking slightly. Their teeth clacked and Jeongguk laughed against his lips. Jimin pulled away, already breathless.

And then he just stared.

Jeongguk’s dark hair was spread out across the sheets, fluffy and soft and a bit mussed from Jimin tugging. His eyes were wide and dark, evidence of his arousal but they were also bright and happy. His cheeks were flushed. His lips were red and a little bruised, but his mouth was stretched in a wide smile.

His hands were moving before he could stop them.

“I love you.”

Jimin froze when Jeongguk’s eyes flickered down to Jimin’s hands.

He had finally said it.

He actually said it.

Was it too soon? Was it too late? Did Jeongguk not feel the same? Did-

“I didn’t catch that.” Jeongguk signed slowly, apologetically. His cheeks turned pinker. “I was a little distracted.”

Jimin’s heart restarted.

“I’ll tell you later.”

Jeongguk nodded sheepishly and Jimin leaned back down.

He’d tell him later.

+1.

It was raining.

Jimin was awake, staring up at an unfamiliar ceiling as he listened to the rain pattering against the window. Jeongguk was fast asleep beside him, his lips parted slightly in an adorable pout. Jimin kissed him on the forehead before quietly throwing off the sheets and tiptoeing out of bed. He made his way to the window seat, unraveling the blanket and settling in, wrapping it around his bare shoulders.

His breath fogged up the glass as he watched the rain roll down the window in rivulets, big drops gathering together to drop from the top. Jimin could smell the earthy scent that always accompanied rain. It made him feel refreshed and invigorated. The city of Seoul was fast asleep, and it seemed like Jimin was the only one there to witness it.

Jimin loved it.

There was a creak, making Jimin look over at the bed. Jeongguk was sitting up, rubbing his eyes and slowly looking around the room. Jimin giggled. He looked adorable with his hair standing up and eyes barely open. 

Jeongguk finally found what he was looking for, and whined a little when he saw where Jimin was sitting. But he crawled out of bed and made his way over to the window bench. Jimin moved forward a little to make room for him and Jeongguk slid in behind him, pulling him back between his legs. He shivered a little, making Jimin giggle before opening the blanket some more and throwing it over both of them. Jeongguk snuggled into him, sighing contently as he pressed his lips against Jimin’s shoulder.

“Why are you awake?” Jimin murmured, turning in his arms to rest his head against his chest.

“Cold. You were gone.”

Jimin giggled. “Aww. Can’t sleep without me?”

Jeongguk was quiet. Jimin looked up at him in surprise. Jeongguk was watching with an expression Jimin hadn’t seen before. It made him shiver with anticipation.

“I can, it’s just better with you next to me.”

Jimin flushed, turning back around. “Sap.”

Jeongguk hummed, pressing himself closer to Jimin.

Jimin felt warm and fluttery as they just sat there, watching and listening to the rain. Jimin felt safe in Jeongguk’s arms and he sighed, leaning further into him. Jeongguk shifted, almost cradling him in his arms. This was better than anything Jimin could have asked for in life.

It was perfect to Jimin.

Jeongguk shifted again, his soft breaths warm against Jimin’s ear. Jimin melted against him, closing his now sleepy eyes. Jeongguk’s lips brushed his ear.

“I love you.”

Jimin went completely still.

The rain pattered against the window. Soft breathing from the two of them filled the silence, but it wasn’t quiet to Jimin. His heart thundered in his ears, his chest, every pulse point in his body. He was hot and cold at the same time as he slowly turned in Jeongguk’s arms.

Jeongguk.

Beautiful, handsome, kind, compassionate Jeongguk.

Jimin’s boyfriend of a year since tod- yesterday.

His doe brown eyes were locked in on Jimin, patiently waiting for him to say something. But Jimin saw the way his adams apple bobbed and felt the way that his muscles were tense before he forced them to relax.

Jimin couldn’t find his voice.

It was almost like Jeongguk had stolen it and used it himself.

Jeongguk shakily raised his hands.

“Jimin?”

“Again.”

Jeongguk blinked. Jimin’s voice was raspy and hoarse, his throat too dry to make his voice smooth and even. Jeongguk raised his hands again but Jimin put his hands over them, shaking his head.

“Again.” He whispered.

Jeongguk inhaled shakily.

“I love you.”

There it was.

It was rough, a little hoarse and more of a whisper. The words were a little mumbled but they were still clear. His voice was deep yet melodic, caressing Jimin’s hearing in the most ethereal way. He had only heard it twice but Jimin was already addicted.

“Again.” Jimin demanded. Jeongguk looked a bit worried now, but he said it again.

“I love you.”

“Again.” Jimin’s whole body was trembling. He gripped Jeongguk’s hands tightly, desperately. Jeongguk looked down at them, his lips parted slightly in question. But then he squeezed them and looked up determined.

“I love you.”

Raspy.

“Again.”

“I love you.”

Whispered.

“Again.”

“I love you.”

Spoken.

“A-again.”

Tears were streaming down Jimin’s face and he let out a choked sob. He was now shaking violently, his body reacting to the millions of emotions he felt at the moment. Jeongguk pressed his lips tightly together, managing to pry a hand out of Jimin’s iron grip. He cupped it under Jimin’s jaw, smoothing his fingers across his cheek as he lifted Jimin's head. Jimin let out a gasping sob, blinking furiously so that Jeongguk was more than a blob.

“Jimin.”

His name had never sounded so precious, so cherished until Jeongguk said it, his voice kissing the syllables.

Jimin broke down. 

He collapsed onto Jeongguk’s chest, unable to hold himself up at all. Jeongguk’s arms circled tight around him, dragging him into his lap. Jimin curled up tight against him, wailing into his chest.

The rain picked up outside, melding into Jimin’s sobs.

He didn’t know how long he cried. It could have been hours. It could have been seconds. Jeongguk held him tight through it all, not loosening his grip once. Jimin’s throat was raw by the time he was done and his eyes felt heavy.

“How?” He asked hoarsely.

Jeongguk smiled tiredly at him. “I’ve been going to speech therapy for the last three months.”

“Jeongguk,” Jimin inhaled shakily. “Your voice is wonderful.”

He blushed. “I know it’s not. It’s really raspy from disuse. I hadn’t used it for seven years. And you probably couldn’t even understand-“

Jimin shook his head, refusing to look at what he signed. “Guk, I love your voice.”

He licked his lips nervously. “Really?”

Jimin nodded, kissing him on the lips. “I love your hands.” He held them up and kissed them, watching Jeongguk turn red. “I love your eyes.” Jeongguk’s eyes fluttered shut as Jimin kissed each eyelid. “I love your nose.” It scrunched up when Jimin kissed it, making him laugh. “I love your lips.” Instead of kissing them he ran his thumb over his bottom lip, pressing gently. Jeongguk peeked up at him and shyly pressed a kiss to the pad of his thumb. Jimin giggled.

“I love your personality. Your kindness, your compassion, your empathy and grace. I love how you always hold me and care about me. I love how you put up with my crying.” Jimin smiled broadly, his vision disappearing. “I love everything about you. Your strengths, your weaknesses.”

He took a deep breath.

“I love you, Jeon Jeongguk.” Jimin bit his lip. “God I love you so much.”

Jeongguk’s lips met his, pressing softly, gently.

Lovingly.

And when they parted, tears glistening as they gazed at each other, the morning sun broke through the clouds.

I love you.

[Bonus]

“Jimin?”

Jimin looked up from where he was sitting on the window bench, a book in his lap. Jeongguk poked his head into the room, his brow furrowed.

“Did you post a video on my channel?”

Jimin forced himself not to smile.

“What?”

Jeongguk’s eyes narrowed. He left the room only to come back a few seconds later carrying his laptop. Jimin shifted over to make room for him on the bench, using every inch of self control not to break into laughter. Jeongguk set it on his lap and pointed to the video on his channel. It was posted two days ago.

“This.”

“I don’t know what that is.”

Jeongguk squinted at him, mouth downturned. Jimin smiled nonchalantly and picked up his book again. He ignored Jeongguk’s staring as he pretended to read. Jeongguk looked away.

Seconds later Jimin heard his own voice come over the speakers.

“Okay guys! Before you comment or do anything, this video has to remain a secret as long as possible. Don’t hop onto Twitter and start tweeting my boyfriend about this, okay? He might get embarrassed and take it down. Don’t tell him I hijacked his channel.

“Now that we got that out of the way, I’m sure you all know that Jeongguk has been going to speech therapy so that he can relearn how to speak. He’s been working really hard and has become more confident about his voice.” Jimin peeked over at the screen just in time to see his own eyebrows wiggle suggestively. “I’ve seen the comments about how much you guys love his voice. Yeah I’m watching you. Especially you guk_is_hot69.” The Jimin on screen narrowed his eyes before he lost his composure, his eyes turning into crescents as he smiled. “But anyway, I thought I’d share this with you guys because it was a pleasant surprise to me. Without further ado, hope you enjoy this small clip. Let’s get it!”

Jeongguk looked horrified already and the best part hadn’t even happened.

The video cut to a clip of Jimin smiling at the phone camera. He was in their bedroom, lying on the bed. The faint sound of the shower running and singing could be heard. Screen Jimin got up off the bed and tiptoed to the bathroom door, there the singing got louder. It was clearly Jeongguk’s voice as he sang one of IU’s songs. The captions detailed it all, little song notes next to the lines. Screen Jimin gave a thumbs up, mouthing, sounds so good! My cute boyfriend.

Jeoguk slammed his laptop shut.

“Jiminnnnnn!” He whined burying his face in his hands.

Jimin broke into giggles, falling over himself and nearly falling off of the window bench. Jeongguk let out another whine as he lifted his head, pouting adorably.

“How could you post that!?”

“It was cute! And you sounded beautiful!”

Jeongguk scowled at him. “I was probably off tune and pitchy.”

“No!”

“Jimin.”

“Just a little. But it was still good! Your viewers loved it.”

“I’ll get you back for that.”

Sure enough, two weeks later a video of drunk Jimin hugging a lamppost and calling it a dog circled the internet.

That’s how Jimin and Jeongguk’s prank channel started.