Archive of Our Own

Something Old

“Well, fuckity fuck. Of all the churches in Seoul, hyung, you really had to pick this one.”

Taehyung’s ears perk up at the irreverently loud voice and ping at what it says but he keeps himself from turning around to look for its owner. He knows he is safely hidden in one of the church’s alcoves. He has time to listen in some more and compose himself before he lets his curiosity win against him.

He is meeting his new client today and of course, he wants to make a good impression. He has met Kim Namjoon once or twice on campus back in college, but they have never made much of an acquaintance apart from the casual hi’s and polite smiles.

He admits it’s crazy to take on this job with roughly 3 months until the wedding, but he could not find it in his heart to say no to the other groom and his good friend, Kim Seokjin. He literally had to twist Jimin and Hoseok’s arms to get them to agree to it. That and the assurance that Taehyung will personally oversee the project, that it’s his event more than anyone else’s.

That’s how he finds himself in this fuckity fuck situation as the voice earlier has so eloquently put it, in one of the oldest churches in Seoul, feigning interest in the architecture and pretending not to hear the argument that ensues behind him in the practically empty structure.

“Jungkook, I will end you,” another voice hisses. “You’re lucky your Seokjin hyung isn’t here or you would have already earned a whack on the head. And keep your voice down, for fuck’s sake. What’s your beef with this church anyway?”

“No offense to whatever is held sacred here, but this church is ugly, Namjoon hyung. It’s old, it’s ugly, it stinks, and there are probably ghosts or orcs in here. Let’s just leave, hyung.”

Taehyung stifles a laugh, instinctively lifting a hand to cover his mouth. Someone who sounded like a full-grown man really just said that. He’s more curious than ever. But, Taehyung muses, as annoyed as Namjoon might be at this Jungkook person, the dude is not exactly wrong about the church. Taehyung has definitely seen churches more beautiful than this. Smaller, sometimes quaint churches but with their own charm that Taehyung might consider as befitting an occasion as special as promising to love someone forever. But this is not Taehyung’s wedding, and it’s not his place to choose the venue. Taehyung knows well, too, what getting married in this church means to many couples in Seoul, especially among the moneyed and the famous. So, while it certainly wouldn’t be his personal choice, as the wedding planner of the famous model Kim Seokjin and the rising music producer Kim Namjoon (and perhaps much to the consternation of a certain Jungkook), Taehyung approves.

Taehyung actually finds it quite remarkable that the husbands-to-be were able to secure a booking, to begin with. As far as he knows, it takes years or someone with a lot of influence on your side to get you penciled in. The documents Seokjin emailed to him from Paris clearly indicate that this venue is in the bag. And as much as he agrees with this Jungkook person that there are other far more beautiful places to get married in (it doesn't even have to be a church!), Taehyung is just happy this booking has been done for him. It’s one thing he can cross off his list. And because he has taken pictures of the church earlier, all that’s left for him to do now is to figure out how he could perhaps transform it into a venue that this Jungkook person will think twice before calling ugly again.

The two men are still bickering indistinctly when Taehyung decides to reveal his presence. They seem to have moved farther down the main aisle, their voices softer than before. Taehyung walks to the aisle with slow and calculated steps, eyes trained downward as he studies the pattern on the floor, wondering how it might reflect on the grooms’ attires and their entourage, too, what floral arrangements will go with the pattern, what lighting is best. He thinks his gray pantsuit holds up well against it. He wonders what color the grooms plan to wear. He and Seokjin didn’t have a chance yet to talk about color motifs…

“Taehyung-ssi?” He snaps out of his thoughts when he hears his name. He looks up from where his black loafers meet the intricate patterns on the floor and his eyes are met by warm brown ones that immediately turn into slits as their owner smiles at him.

“Namjoon-hyung, it’s been a while. How have you been?” Taehyung extends his hand in greeting. Namjoon takes it but pulls him in, too, for a hug that catches Taehyung unaware.

“Taehyung-ssi, thank you so much for agreeing to take us in on such short notice. It’s so unfortunate that the first wedding planner had to bail out last minute. But we’re lucky we found you and you agreed to this. I think your Seokjin hyung may have abused his friendship card with this one. I hope you don’t plan on revoking it.”

“Not at all, hyung,” Taehyung assures. “It’s my pleasure and honor to be a part of your special day. You and Seokjin hyung have always been one of my favorite couples on campus, even if you and I never made it past the hi’s and hello’s then.”

Namjoon beams at him, his dimples making an appearance and Taehyung realizes the man is even cuter up close. “You’re everything Jinnie says you are—so sweet and kind, our Taehyung-ssi.”

“No need to be formal now, hyung. Taehyung will do.”

Namjoon and Taehyung’s tete-a-tete is interrupted by someone clearing his throat. Taehyung’s eyes are drawn to the doe-eyed boy in an all-black outfit behind Namjoon. His raven hair peeks out of his bucket hat. Ah, Taehyung thinks, this must be the Jungkook person who thinks this church is old and hideous and fuckity fucked up. How in heaven's name is he even afraid of ghosts and orcs when he looks like the devil himself.

“Oh, Taehyung, this is Jungkook, my best man.”

Best man. Sure.

Taehyung’s instincts tell him he might regret it but being the professional (and decent human) that he is, he extends a hand to this Jungkook person, this Jungkook who is apparently Namjoon’s best man.

“Jungkook-ssi, nice to meet you.” Taehyung flashes him a smile too.

Jungkook stares at Taehyung a fraction of a second longer than is deemed comfortable for strangers before taking Taehyung’s hand. His eyes never leave the wedding planner’s as they shake hands to seal their acquaintance.

Did he just size me up? Taehyung wonders. And are those t-tattoos?  Taehyung shushes the little voice inside him that threatens to go feral at the ink. 

“Likewise, Taehyung-ssi,” Jungkook quips. “Uh, I’m sorry I didn’t get your last name…”

“That’s because I didn’t say it,” Namjoon points out.

Taehyung voices out. “It’s Kim. But there’s no need for that, really. Taehyung is fine. Even if you seem to be younger than I am, Jungkook-ssi. Am I right? May I call you Jungkook then?” Jungkook shrugs in a play at indifference. Taehyung flashes him another smile. Jungkook realizes their hands are still clasped together and pulls away.

“He is younger than you, Taehyung,” Namjoon confirms. “But he hates it when it’s pointed out. Yet he can’t keep himself from behaving like a brat. Unfortunately,” Namjoon sighs, “as he is my best man and Jinnie is still in Paris, Jungkook will be helping us with a lot of the preparations. Please put up with him, Taehyung-ah. He's a little shit sometimes.”

“Hey, hyung, I’m right here. How dare you talk about me like that?”

Namjoon turns to Taehyung. “See what I mean?”

Taehyung just laughs it off. He refuses to let this Jungkook person get to him and get in the way of his work, of him enjoying his work. He will win the younger man over one way or another. Or at the very least find a way to make future interactions less… exhausting?

“So, how do you find the church, Jungkook-ssi?” Taehyung asks, a knowing smile formed on his lips.

“Funny you should ask,” Jungkook replies, throwing a side glance at Namjoon.

Namjoon rolls his eyes, “Don’t. Just don’t start now, Jungkook.”

Taehyung lets out a small laugh. If he finds the younger man’s incessant yapping a tad amusing and his voice somewhat strangely comforting, he hopes he doesn’t let it on too much.

“Don’t you think it’s ugly, too, Taehyung?” Jungkook inquires, peering at Taehyung. “You do, too, don’t you? Come on, you can say it.”

Namjoon gives Jungkook a deathly stare and mutters through gritted teeth. “Jungkooooook…”

Taehyung replies quickly to ease the situation. “It’s in demand for weddings, you know. It’s special to a lot of people because of its history, the tradition it holds.”

“I think it’s overrated,” Jungkook replies, arms folded across his chest. Then he nods briefly in Taehyung’s direction. “Are you married, Taehyung?”

“JUNGKOOK!” Namjoon eyes widen in disbelief.

“It’s okay, hyung,” Taehyung assures Namjoon. “No, Jungkook, I’m not. Why do you ask though? Are you? Married, I mean.”

“Me?! Nope. Never.” Jungkook declares. Namjoon audibly scoffs. “I only asked you because I’d like to know what you think about getting married here. Is it something you’d consider?” 

Before Taehyung could answer, Namjoon does a chokehold on Jungkook. “Enough!” he reprimands. “Taehyung, you don’t have to answer that.” Jungkook escapes from Namjoon’s hold, and Taehyung notes that despite being shorter than Namjoon, Jungkook seems to be stronger. But no, this is not the best time for his muscle kink to act up.  

Jungkook attempts to explain. “Alright, I’ll stop. I was just curious, you know. Taehyung seems to be a man of good taste. I just wanted to know if this church passes his standards personally. But, hey, Namjoon hyung, it’s your wedding. It’s just an hour or two we have to spend in here anyway. And as long as orcs don’t come crashing the party and creepy orbs or strange white lady-like figures don’t appear in the photos that Yoongi hyung will take on that day, I’ll drop it… It’s not my forever, it’s yours. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I think I’ll just wait outside.”

Jungkook walks away, leaving a very flustered and profusely apologetic Namjoon with an equally surprised Taehyung. Totally not what the wedding planner expected, but given that it’s their first meeting, Taehyung resolves he’ll give Best Man Jungkook who hates the church the benefit of the doubt.

“I’m so, so, so sorry,” Namjoon begins as soon as Jungkook was out of earshot. “He’s usually more...”

“Pleasant? Decent? Human?” Taehyung adds jokingly to make light of things.

“Tolerable.” Namjoon decides. “I don’t know what’s gotten into him today. Maybe I shouldn’t have forced him to come with me. He really didn’t want to. But he changed his mind at the last minute. I’m sorry about his behavior. I’ll talk to him.”

“Nah, no need, Namjoon hyung. I’m not offended at all. You know, I run into all types of people in this business. Not everyone is easy to please, that’s a given. And almost always, as far as weddings go, everyone seems to be invested in them. Everyone has a thing or two to say, from the grandmother of the groom to the ring bearer’s uncle. I find it’s always worthwhile to listen to people. It doesn’t mean we’ll bend to their every whim. We can listen, take it in, reflect, and still make the choices that matter to us.”

“Ah, Taehyung-ah. Jinnie and I are over the moon for finding you.”

“I am happy too, hyung, to do this with you. And you don’t have to worry about anything, really.”

“I hope you and Jungkook could eventually get along.”

Taehyung chuckles in reply. “As you’ve requested, I will do my best to put up with him, hyung.”

“He just seems like a tough cookie but he’s a good kid. He’s been hanging around me for years. He’s really like a younger brother to me, and I’ve always felt responsible for—”

Namjoon stops in midsentence as Jungkook pops his head back in. “How much longer do you two plan to stay in there for? I’m freezing out here. I’m hungry, too.”

“Oh, give it a rest,” Namjoon chides. “It’s not even winter yet. What are you so cold for? Get the car started then. Here,” he says and throws the younger man the keys.

“You know me and cold weather, hyung,” Jungkook explains. “I’ll wait in the car.”

Namjoon scratches the back of his head and glances at Taehyung regretfully, almost like a father silently apologizing for his son’s unruly behavior. Taehyung waves it off with a smile.

Namjoon asks, “You’ll join us for lunch, yeah?”

Taehyung shakes his head no. “Maybe next time, hyung.” Namjoon’s face falls in disappointment. “Definitely next time. Promise.” Taehyung assures him and gives him a brief hug. “Please tell Jungkook I’ll see him again soon. Enjoy lunch.”

Sunlight falls on Taehyung’s face, bringing a glow to it, as he waves goodbye to the two men. He walks away from the church to his car and into what just might be the longest 3 months of his life.

-o-

Taehyung has barely gotten into his car when his phone starts ringing. He rips open a handful of Twix minis and pops them all into his mouth before putting Jimin on the speaker and driving off.

“Took you long enough to answer.”

“Mmm-hmm…” Taehyung acknowledges, munching contently and savoring the combination of sticky, crumbly, and sweet inside his mouth.

“Are you on your way back?”

“Mmmm…” He nods, too, as though Jimin can see.

“Why are you speaking like that? What the fuck? Have you been kidnapped?”

“Mmm-mmm!” Taehyung denies emphatically.

“Did you just stuff your mouth with Twix minis again?”

“Mmmm...”

“How many exactly?”

“Mmmm-hmmmm?”

“How many?”

“I don’t know, okay? I was hungry! And I needed to drive off.” Taehyung finally articulates.

“I thought you were going to have lunch out today.”

“Yeah, with you. Got time?”

“Meet me at the Mexican place. But tell me first, how was it?”

“It was fine. Namjoon hyung was a sweetheart.”

“Well, those dimples were a dead giveaway. You should have known. How did it go with the church though? All okay?”

“Yeah, yeah, s’okay, Minnie. I managed.” Taehyung replies, breathing out a sigh of relief. His voice picks up when he continues, “I met hyung’s best man though and he couldn’t stop dissing the church.”

“There’s always one in every wedding, huh?”

“I guess,” Taehyung agrees. “But you know, it was soooo funny. The way he talked about it you’d think he was looking at Barad-dur. Like, dude, this ain’t Mordor and Namjoon ain’t the Dark Lord.” Taehyung chuckles. “Hyung glared at him like he wanted to send him straight to the fires of Mt. Doom. I’d find it annoying if it weren’t too hilarious.”

“Was he cute though?”

“Who?”

“Best Man dude who’s too hilarious to send to Mt. Doom.”

“Oh.”

“Oh?”

“I didn’t notice.”

“So he is.”

“I don’t know, Minnie. I was too busy laughing internally while trying not to have a mental breakdown because of him.”

“Sure, Tae.” Jimin pauses. “I haven’t heard you laugh like this in a long time though. Just saying.”

“It was funny, okay?” Taehyung explains. “Of course, I had to keep a straight face. Namjoon hyung kept apologizing. Which made it even funnier. Hyung wanted me to have lunch with them, but I figured it’ll give me indigestion, so I declined. I’m seeing hyung again next week to pick out his attire. Wanna come with?”

“Sure, why not? If my schedule checks out. I’m walking to the resto now by the way.”

“Come on, Minnie. Make time.” Taehyung whined. “You have to see Best Man dude in action, so we can laugh harder at him together after…”

“I knew it. He’s cute.”

Silence.

“Taehyung…”

“Sorry, what was that? I lost you for a while… Anyway, you know what, I’m hanging up. See you in a bit, Jiminie.”

If Taehyung laughs so hard again at lunch that his iced tea comes out through his nose, only Jimin knows. And at this point, he’s already too invested in this new thing in Taehyung’s life and too afraid to mess it up to say anything at all. So, he just watches and, wordlessly, hands Taehyung a paper towel to wipe his face with. He continues to laugh with him, maybe at him, as his best friend tells the story for the nth time. And Jimin doesn’t even think it’s that funny but he doesn’t mind because it’s the longest Taehyung has laughed in years and he thinks it’s about time those crescent eyes began sparkling again with happy tears.

-o-

Something New

The next time Taehyung sees Jungkook again, they almost burn the atelier down.

After a series of online meetings and email exchanges with the grooms, sometimes in the ungodliest of hours, Seokjin being in a different time zone and running on very odd schedules, the issue of attire has finally been settled. Well, kind of. It’s been settled enough for Namjoon and Taehyung to finally be able to pay a visit to the Korean partner of the French couturier who will be doing Seokjin’s suit.

Namjoon offered to pick up Taehyung so they could discuss other details on the way. Jimin was supposed to come, too, but had a last-minute consult with a client who may have changed her mind about her groom. Taehyung figures that’s a way bigger crisis so he lets Jimin off the hook. And in truth, if only it weren’t so hard to secure an appointment with this designer, he would have wanted to be with Jimin, too. Of course, he does not admit to anyone, not even to himself, that the other reason he could live with Jimin not coming is that Namjoon fetches him solo, and because of that, perhaps the entertainment value of the entire afternoon had just gone down a whole notch.

But perhaps the gay gods were bored and decided to throw Taehyung a curveball. So just when discussions on design had been resolved and he and Namjoon are well into the measurements, Jungkook announces his arrival by (once again) spewing complaints left and right and all over. “Hyung, was there really no other designer to your liking that’s located closer to civilization? I had to wade through several miles of traffic to get here, you know. Took me so long I think I’ve grown to Seokjin hyung’s age. To top it off, halfway through, I had the sudden urge to pee and…” He turns to the wardrobe assistant. “Excuse me, Miss, which way to the restroom?”

Taehyung was still watching Jungkook’s retreating back when he hears Namjoon groan like a somewhat enraged animal, “Aaarrrgh!” Taehyung loses it and cracks up. Namjoon likewise gives in, but later on balls his hands into fists as his face contorts into an expression that’s half frustration and half fondness. And Taehyung thinks he understands. And they laugh some more together between measurements, without having to exchange any word between them.

Jungkook finds them like that as he rejoins them and takes a seat a few paces away from them. “Well, no wonder you two don’t get anything done. You keep goofing off. At the rate you’re going, we might as well camp out here.” Turning to the assistant again, he inquires, “Miss, do you know of a good dinner place within a 1-mile radius from here? And maybe could you recommend a hotel, too, because if these two don’t stop fooling around, we might be here a while and I don’t think this settee can hold three grown men even if we all sleep sitting down.”

“Pssssh.” Namjoon dismisses while Taehyung looks on with a trained blank expression. “Why are you even here? I don’t remember asking you to come, you know. You dragged your own whiny ass down here. Took that 30-minute drive on your own. And what for?”

“Fifty. Five.” Jungkook makes every word pop out while flashing 5 fingers each time. “It took me 55 minutes to get here, hyung. I told you, traffic was bad by the time I headed out.”

“Whatever. No one asked you to come, Kook. So, zip it.”

“Well, someone had to make sure you weren’t going to make stupid decisions with your attire,” Jungkook explains.

“And that’s what Taehyung is here for. In case you haven’t noticed.”

Jungkook looks at Taehyung then, does a once-over, and was he out of breath because he was tired from driving or from all the grumbling or… Anyway, his eyes shift back to Namjoon quickly. “I thought you could use another opinion. Especially since your style is closer to mine than his.”

Taehyung reacts, “Does my fashion sense not appeal to you, Jungkook-ssi?”

He straightens up as Jungkook trains his eyes on him. His hands are perched comfortably on his hips, head angled more for an inquiring look than for an actual pose, but fashion models be damned if Taehyung ever decides to go back to what he used to do. He has chosen to dress casually for this, throwing beige overalls over a classic white t-shirt and draping over the whole thing a green and white striped cardigan. He knew there will be a lot of standing, walking, milling about, and fussing over Namjoon so he ditched his loafers for white sneakers and put a beret over his caramel-colored longish locks.

“Can’t say it doesn’t suit you.” JK declares, his tongue poking the inside of his cheek briefly before he proceeds. “But it’s not hyung’s style.”

Was that an actual compliment though? Taehyung wonders as his thoughts linger on the first part of what Jungkook said and what Taehyung is beginning to see as a characteristic tongue move.

“And you’re afraid I’d dress him like me?” Taehyung says out loud as he walks over to the settee, stopping right in front of Jungkook who’s in an all-black ensemble again down to the black infinity scarf, ball cap replacing the bucket hat, giving Taehyung a first look at his ears and the silver loops on them. And Jungkook is looking up at him with those doe eyes filled with surprise that is akin to childlike wonder while dressed like the boy every mother warns her child about and every father’s worst nightmare—a huge ass lesson on contrast. 

“I don’t think hyung can pull off that look even if he tried.”

There he goes again, Taehyung thinks. Taehyung finds himself literally trying to shake the thought off his head.

“Well, don’t you worry your pretty little head, Jungkook-ssi,” Taehyung assures. “I’m not trying to clone myself. Besides, I know exactly what would look great on Namjoon hyung. Seokjin hyung and I have discussed this lengthily. What body parts to highlight especially. You know, with those broad shoulders, his legs… You wouldn’t believe how deliciously detailed those conversations were…”

Namjoon who had a tape measure around his right thigh at that moment chokes on his own saliva and his face turns a certain shade of red.

The two younger males turn to look at him. Jungkook chortles immediately but it takes Taehyung a while to realize the reason why Namjoon was all flushed and flustered. And when he does, it is his turn to blush.

“Hyung, I—” Taehyung could hear Jungkook snickering. “We were talking about cuts, hyung. On clothes, I mean.” Jungkook howls. Taehyung turns and sees the youngest practically convulsing with laughter. He pouts and stomps on Jungkook’s black boots, hoping it would send this demon and his sinister laughter back to hell. How embarrassing. Taehyung thinks. Now he really wishes Jimin were here.

But Jungkook isn’t done yet. Between fits of laughter, he manages to ask, “So, did you talk about exact measurements, too? And was it in inches or centimeters?” At this point, Jungkook is in stitches. And Taehyung just allows himself to let loose and laugh with him.

Meanwhile, Namjoon wisely escapes to the changing room.

“Stooooppp!” Taehyung finally tells the younger one as he catches his breath. “It wasn’t like that at all. We talked about colors, too, okay? Blue for Seokjin hyung and gray for Namjoon hyung. Down to specific hues. Beautiful palettes. People in fashion and art enjoy conversations like that, you know.”

Jungkook has stopped laughing, too, by now but a smirk is firmly planted on his lips as he glances up at Taehyung’s face.

“Anywaaaay…” Taehyung inhales and exhales deeply in an attempt to recover, a Herculean effort, he realizes because today, it seems as though Jungkook is a man on a mission. And judging from the huge smile on his face right now, whatever that mission is, he seems to be making great progress. “We’ve pretty much settled on the fabric while you were on your way here. But if you want to make yourself useful, pick a shade of gray that you think best compliments hyung’s skin tone. Here… May I?” Taehyung motions to the space beside Jungkook on the couch.

“I think you’re past asking for permission to sit beside me when you’ve already stomped on my shoes hard enough to break all my toes, Kim. Just do as you please.” Jungkook turns his head to the space beside him but makes no effort to move. It earns him an eye roll as Taehyung joins him on the settee and hands him the swatches. Perhaps Taehyung miscalculates and their hands brush as Jungkook makes a motion to receive the folder. Taehyung jolts and pulls his hand away only for it to come in contact with Jungkook again. The back of his hand inadvertently grazes Jungkook’s lap as he gently places the compilation on it. And for a hot second, Jungkook stills.

Taehyung clears his throat. “Uhm, these are arranged from the lightest to the darkest…” he begins in the most informative tone he could come up with.  

“Whoa!” Jungkook exclaims while he flips through the swatches. “Who knew there were so many shades of gray? I only know 50.”

Taehyung side-eyes him and catches him looking so pleased with himself at the reference. The audacity of this man, really. His nostrils flare. Taehyung bites his lower lip, forcing back the laughter that threatens to escape, compelling the mirth bubbling inside him to fizzle and fade. How can this man be so funny even when he is trying to be annoying?

They hold each other’s gaze. Maybe a lot longer than they meant to.

“What?” Jungkook blurts, raising an eyebrow, a mischievous glimmer unmistakable in his eyes. Taehyung’s breath hitches and he bites harder on his lip. He badly needs Jimin. Or a cold shower. Because the atmosphere in the room just hit febrile proportions and he could use either an escape route or some comfort. “Is there something else you need from me, Mr. Kim?”

Taehyung forces himself to break the stare as he feels the heat creep up to his cheeks. Hastily, he gets up and declares dismissively, “That’ll be all for now, Mr. Jeon.” But his retreat is hampered by a tug on the side leg pocket of his overalls as Jungkook hooks his finger on it.

Taehyung turns to him again and is met with Jungkook’s cocky smile. “I see you’ve looked me up, Mr. Kim. Because I don’t remember telling you my last name.”

Taehyung retorts, “Sir, I just finished doing the guest list. And you happen to be in it. It’s nothing special. Now if you could please let go of my subpar attire, I have a groom to attend to.”

“What about the best man?” Jungkook’s voice is suddenly softer but deeper that Taehyung seems to hear it first in his chest and then feels it settle in his stomach like a strange fire.

“I’m afraid he’s not on the schedule today.” He manages to clap back. He pries his pant leg away from Jungkook’s finger and walks away with all the strength that he could muster. Because, boy, if he were to spontaneously combust here and now, with all the heat in the air and the flammable materials around him, this entire room and everything and everyone in it will surely burn in minutes.

-o-

They do end up having dinner but not all on account of Namjoon and Taehyung goofing off. Jungkook certainly put in a great deal of stalling, going back and forth until they all agreed on the specific shade of gray that Namjoon’s wedding suit will be done in, lighter than charcoal but darker than silver, somewhere between porpoise and pewter.

“Okay, okay, since y’all are grumpy and hungry and have no regard for how hyung will look on the most important day of his life, let’s just take this one,” is how Jungkook decides on it. Taehyung takes one look and knows it would work. Namjoon is too tired to care and just shrugs. All three of them have somehow managed to fit in the settee, with Namjoon squeezed in between the younger two. The eldest leans his head back, exhaustion seeping into him, and closes his eyes for a bit. 

“Hyung, are you not convinced?” Jungkook inquires, ignoring Namjoon’s attempt at reprieve. “Hyung, it’s close to Taehyung’s suit when we checked out the church. Remember? Didn’t you see how he looked when he was walking down the aisle towards us?”

Namjoon’s head snaps back up. He stares at Jungkook for a bit with thoughtful eyes before replying, “Uhm, no offense to Taehyung, but no, Jungkook, I did not notice. And even if I did, I doubt that I would remember it down to the exact shade of Taehyung’s suit. But aren’t we all glad that you do?” The eldest mocks him with a little clap then turns to Taehyung then for confirmation. Taehyung does his own tiny claps and gives him a weak smile as he tries to read the expression on Namjoon’s face. Failing at that, he gets up to wrap things up with the designer and his team.

As it turns out, there is a good restaurant for dinner within a mile radius from the atelier. In fact, it’s just a block away and about a 10-minute leisurely walk. The trio head out in silence with Namjoon and Jungkook on their phones and Taehyung just taking in the colors of dusk. He has always had a thing for sunsets and sunrises although he has not painted them or anything in a while.

It’s turning out to be a chilly evening and Taehyung shivers a little as they walk. He didn’t expect them to stay well on until the evening, and his attire was certainly not put together for evening walks under open skies. He keeps his arms tightly around himself to fend off the cold and walks on quietly. He is tired and he can’t wait to get home. But he’s also hungry. So, his thoughts are on dinner and he’s fervently wishing for scampi when his movements are halted by a firm hand on his shoulder and his vision is cut off by a black fabric put over his head. Was he being kidnapped? Did Jimin predict it? But as the fabric is pulled down and it settles comfortably around his neck, Taehyung realizes what happened.

“Who even goes out without checking the weather and dressing appropriately for it? Like seriously, who does that?” Jungkook mumbles, a tinge of annoyance in his voice, before walking ahead. Taehyung looks at Namjoon, puzzled. “I breathed?” Namjoon chuckles but before he could speak, he is interrupted by Jungkook screaming from a few paces away, “What, are you two not coming? I’m starving.” They catch up and hear the tail end of the youngest’s grumbling. “...sure is taking his time for someone who’s cold.”

“Thank you for the scarf,” Taehyung says quietly to him.

“It’s nothing special,” Jungkook slurs, making sure Taehyung catches his own words from the atelier. “We just can’t have you freezing off. I don’t think hyung will find another wedding planner at this point.”

-o-

Dinner turns out to be pretty decent. The stunning view of the night sky makes up for the sordid lack of shrimp scampi. The surf ‘n turf which the maître d’ recommends to Taehyung is scrumptious, but the serving is too generous that Jungkook ends up eating more than half of it.

Taehyung finds that Jungkook can be agreeable if he tried. Or maybe it’s just as simple as he’s more human when he’s fed. He studies the younger from across the table as he wolfs down the rest of his dinner. Well, Taehyung’s dinner. His eyes are glued on him and his rapidly vanishing meal even as Namjoon talks about Seokjin’s cooking.

Amidst his litany of praise for his favorite dishes, Namjoon’s phone rings and he heads out of the restaurant to answer it. When he returns, he apologizes for having to cut dinner short because he has to pick up a parcel of perishables that Seokjin delivered to his mom’s place.

“But, hyung, I just ordered dessert,” Jungkook complains.

“Well, you can stay or have it to go. But Taehyung and I have to leave in 5 mins.” Namjoon calls the waiter and asks for the bill.

“Why does Taehyung get to go with you, and I don’t? I’ll come, too. I’ll just have my dessert to go.” Jungkook motions for another waiter to come to the table to follow up and give instructions on his dessert.

“Taehyung rode with me coming here, remember?” Namjoon explains as he settles the bill. “So, I’m also taking him home. He can meet Jinnie’s mom, too.”

“Oh, right. I want to see Jin hyung’s mom again. So, I’m definitely coming.”

Taehyung chimes in, “Namjoon hyung, you don’t have to give me a ride home. I can just call for an Uber from here.”

“Are you sure, Taehyung?” Namjoon asks. “It won’t be any trouble at all for me to bring you home. But I also don’t want to take up any more of your time than I already have. So, if you prefer to just go on your own, Jungkook and I will just go to Jinnie’s mom then.”

“Don’t worry about me, hyung. Just go,” Taehyung assures him. “I’ll see you in a few days. Take care. You, too, Jungkook.”

“Okay then, Taehyung. Just let me know when you get home.” Namjoon smiles then says to Jungkook, “Let’s go, kid.”

Jungkook stays planted in his seat. “Uh, hyung, I think you’ll just have to go without me since my takeout isn’t here yet.”

“We can pick it up from the counter on our way out. Come on, let’s go. Jinnie’s mom is waiting.”

“Well, to be honest, I’m kinda iffy about seeing her, hyung. She’s probably going to bug me again about my tattoos, commitment, marriage, you know. And I don’t have anything new to report to her on those matters. So yeah, I’m staying.”

“Jungkook…”

“Hyung, don’t be mad. To make it up to you, why don’t I just bring Taehyung home?” Jungkook suggests.

Taehyung who was busy refreshing the Uber page freezes.

“Have you booked a ride yet?” Jungkook asks him. Taehyung opens his mouth to reply but is interrupted by Jungkook again. “Well, it doesn’t matter. If you’ve booked one, cancel it. I’m your Uber tonight.”

“Hyung, you can go now,” Jungkook waves off Namjoon. “I got this,” he says with a wink.

Namjoon silently takes in what just happened. He glances at Taehyung who seems just as confounded. He studies the two younger men, sitting across the table from each other. Both of them look surprised, almost flustered, but not at all bothered by the strange of turn of events. And at that moment, Jungkook’s dessert is served in a brown bag. Jungkook tears it open and asks for dessert forks—“Two please,” he tells the waiter. Namjoon watches with profound amusement and laughs out loud as he makes his way out.

-o-

Taehyung and Jungkook stay for a few more hours. Their nonstop conversation obliviating the copious amounts of cake and coffee (well, tea for Taehyung) they’ve been consuming. It is almost midnight when they take stock of the time and only because their phones kept vibrating alternately to the tune of Namjoon calling. Taehyung picks up. A frantic Namjoon rattles off from the other end of the line.

“Taehyung, thank God, are you okay?”

“Hyung, I’m fine. Sorry I haven’t texted you. I’m not home yet.”

“What do you mean? Did Jungkook leave? Did he not give you a ride? That brat, he said he’ll take care of it, of you…”

“Hyung, no, it’s not like that. He’s… We’re still at the restaurant, hyung. Jungkook is still having dessert.” Jungkook makes a funny face at that.

“Hey, you’re eating, too! We’re still having dessert.” Jungkook corrects him.

“Oh, sorry, we’re still having dessert, hyung,” Taehyung echoes, his eyes falling on the raven-haired man in front of him currently finishing off his nth slice of strawberry shortcake. “But we’re heading home soon, I think. Are you home, hyung?” Taehyung inquires.

“Yes, Taehyung. And I might turn in already. Too tired and sleepy. Will you be alright?”

“Yes, hyung. Don’t worry about me. Jungkook’s got this, remember?” Taehyung looks at Jungkook and winks. Jungkook makes another face at him, not happy about being mimicked and mocked.

Taehyung ends the call. “So, can I get the bill now or shall I get you a box of pastries first to go?”

“Hah! Save it for next time, Kim. And I got this, remember?”

If Taehyung thought that the ride home was going to be uncomfortable, he has never been more wrong. He learns that he and Jungkook like the same songs and the same artists, and they have similar playlists, and mentally he adds this to the growing list of things he’s getting to like about the young man beside him. The one currently singing along to Pink Sweats’ At My Worst while driving. Yes, this one with the angelic voice that Taehyung wouldn’t mind hearing right before he drifts off to sleep and even first thing in the morning. Taehyung’s eyes instinctively turn to him, this walking paradox of a man. He is beautiful, too, in this light, Taehyung thinks. His eyes, how do they shine like that?

“You’re staring,” Jungkook states, eyes fixed on the road.

“And you know this, how? A driver should keep his eyes on the road, Jeon. Didn’t they teach you that at Uber driving school?”

“Peripheral vision, Kim. Learned about it in Kindergarten. For Uber drivers.”

“Is that where you learned how to sing, too? You sure can carry a tune.”

“And you needed to look at me to hear it?” Jungkook teases.

“Oh, don’t flatter yourself, Jeon. I just couldn’t process. Too much dissonance between the look and voice.” Taehyung promptly looks out the window, hoping he has angled his face enough to keep his flaming cheeks from sight. Thankfully, Jungkook falls silent and lets the topic drop, too.

And Taehyung thinks, as he gives a tiny wave to his Uber driver for the night who responds with a tip of his ball cap, that he seriously has to get a grip before Jeon Jungkook becomes beautiful to him in any light, before Jungkook’s eyes begin to shine brighter than the stars in the night sky, before Jungkook’s voice becomes the only air that Taehyung needs to breathe.

-o-

Jungkook doesn’t make it easy though.

The next day, as Taehyung gets ready to leave the office for a noontime appointment, Jia, his secretary, pops her head in.

“Taehyung-ssi, your Uber is here.”

Taehyung shoots her a surprised expression. “Oh, that’s not for me, Jia-ssi. I brought my car today. It’s probably for Jiminie or Hoseok hyung.”

“Uhm, the driver specifically asked for you. But he did say he’s not here to pick you up. Weird, I know. He said he just wanted to talk to you.” Jia’s expression shifts to a slightly weirded-out look. “Something about not tipping last night?”

Holy mother of—Taehyung closes his eyes and breathes in and out before instructing Jia to usher the man in. He’s tied up for the rest of the day and has absolutely no time to spare for anyone’s shenanigans. If he checks his hair in a pocket mirror and smooths his silk twill floral blouse before his unexpected guest arrives, it’s all just a force of habit, just trying to look presentable for a client as any professional would do. Or so he tells himself.

Two raps on his door alert him to the man’s presence. “Come on in,” he says curtly, his back still turned to the door as he fishes for his car keys from his leather satchel behind him. Because he really does need to head out after he deals with this, whatever this is.

“For a man of your stature, you sure are stingy.” A disgruntled voice charges him. He turns around and he is assailed further by the sight before him. Light blue and white pin-striped button-down shirt worn with a tailored navy jacket over a pair of slim-fit cropped navy trousers. No headgear. Silver loops on ears. And a fucking man bun. A fucking man bun. Jeon Jungkook clearly chose violence today. And Taehyung prays to his angels for him to be able to remain calm and safe in the face of impending danger.

“I’m sorry, but I don’t require your services today, sir,” Taehyung informs him.

“I’m not here to render any,” Jungkook retorts.

“What are you here for then?” Taehyung inquires, collecting his things for his appointment and moving towards the door and consequently to the man who had just entered it.

“I came to collect my tip,” Jungkook replies.

Taehyung raises an eyebrow. “I don’t recall being obligated to give you one.”

“It’s customary. And clearly, you can afford it.”

“Alright then,” Taehyung concedes, handing Jungkook his phone. “Just enter your details in there and I’ll send you a decent amount.” Jungkook takes the phone, keys in, and hands it back to Taehyung. 

“I don’t need your money though.”

“Then what did you just key in?”

“It’s my phone number.”

“I don’t need your phone number though.”

“That’s what they all say in the beginning.”

“Mr. Jeon, I don’t have time for this. Just tell me what you want from me.”

“A tie.”

“A tie?”

“For the wedding. An extremely horrid one to annoy Jin hyung.”

Taehyung chuckles. “I believe you are very much capable of picking that one out on your own.”

“Ouch. Right through the heart, Mr. Kim. But, see, I need you because the look on your face will tell me how it registers on the horrid scale.”

“Why do you seem like you want to sabotage this wedding so bad, Mr. Jeon? I’m so close to concluding you might actually be in love with one of the grooms.”

“What? Ewww, no! But seriously, I need a tie. One that Jin hyung will find next to impossible to insult.”

“Aaaah, so now we’re talking. But, don’t you think it’s a little too much for a tip and for a single ride at that?”

“Hey, I gave you 5-star service. I drove carefully and made sure you got home in one piece. Also, I don’t feed all my passengers before a trip.”  

“Do you let all of them hear you sing though?”

“Well, no.” Jungkook’s cheeks are flushed. “S-so that too!”

“Fine.” Taehyung concedes. “I’ll get you a tie for the wedding. Just send me an image of your suit so I can match it and then have the tie delivered to you.”

“Oh-ho-ho, wait a goddamn minute… Why are you glossing over my attire like this when you were so picky and all with Namjoon hyung’s?”

“You’re not my client, Mr. Jeon.”

“I am part of the entourage though.”

“The best man’s attire is not my responsibility.”

“But if I don’t look good, it’ll still be on you.”

“I highly doubt that is possible.” The words spill from Taehyung’s lips and Jungkook was quick to catch them.

“Say that again?” He moves into Taehyung’s space. Taehyung steps back and finds himself between the devil and the coat hanger.

Taehyung clears his throat. “I--, I highly doubt that it’s possible that I would take the fall for the best man’s ill-advised decisions regarding his attire. Now, if you would excuse me, I don’t want to be late for my appointment.”

Jia arrives at the scene at the perfect moment. “Taehyung-ssi, do you want me to get your car for you?” she asks, hands reaching out for Taehyung’s keys.

Jungkook blocks the transfer though. “That won’t be necessary. We’ll take my car. It’s right outside. I think I need to give Mr. Kim another ride to earn my tie.”

“Mr. Jeon, I said I don’t have the time for this.”

“Which is why you need to stop arguing with me and start following me. Now, Mr. Kim.”

Jungkook’s voice leaves no room for argument and Taehyung, well, Taehyung just gets right on it and follows him.

-o-

“You’re unbelievable,” Taehyung exclaims as he puts his seatbelt on.

“So I’ve been told a couple of times. Although in a totally different context.” Jungkook smirks and glances at Taehyung briefly before stepping on the gas. Taehyung schools his expression, looking fairly unimpressed.

“Whatever you say, Jeon.”  

“You don’t have to take my word for it though. You could…”

Taehyung cuts him off before he could say anything more. “Do you even know where I am supposed to go?”

“Ehrm, no, right, about that… Please put the address in the GPS.”

Taehyung types in the destination and as soon as Jungkook sees it, he protests. For two people who claim they don’t care much about the cake, Namjoon and Seokjin seem to have put a lot of thought into making sure they picked a patisserie that will give Jungkook maximum misery. And as Taehyung’s luck would have it, not only does he get to witness it, he also has to wade and wallow in it with him.    

“What’s your deal this time?” Taehyung asks.

“You agreed to this? Seriously?” Jungkook replies with an incredulous tone. “Have you even tried their cakes? They suck.”

“Uhm, I doubt that. They’ve had consistently good reviews in the last few years since new management took over. Besides, it’s the couple’s prerogative. And as long as I see nothing wrong with the place, why not? My job is just to make things happen. Also, you could just drop me off to avoid the entire ordeal.”

“And let them sweet talk you into bad deals?”

“This isn’t my first wedding, Jeon.”

“So we’re just going to ignore the fact that you have absolutely no appreciation for cake that has no strawberries in it? Don’t think I didn’t notice. We had samplers last night. You need me here, Kim. There’s no way I’m not staying. The fate of the wedding depends on it.”

And so, the saga of Jeon Jungkook’s discontent continues. And Kim Taehyung sits through it, scene after scene, cake slice after cake slice, grumble after grumble after grumble.

“Too sweet.”

“Too bland.”

“Like they served me air, then suddenly they remembered to put some cake in.”

“God, put that away.”

“Is this a wedding or is it Halloween?”

“Were the berries pureed or did someone just put them in a bag and sit on them?”

“Don’t they teach pastry chefs how to make proper ganache anymore?”

“Death by fondant. But not blissful.”

“Preeetentious.”

“And you thought no one can ever go wrong with a classic chocolate cake.”

“Help! It’s a mille-feuille posing as a badly done Moulin Rouge.”

Taehyung thinks he might die of embarrassment. But as the cakes keep coming and Jungkook’s sass keeps upping, Taehyung begins to enjoy the hilarity of it all. He takes in the ritual. When a slice is served, Jungkook examines it visually at first. Then he sniffs it. If he sticks his tongue out, there’s no way he’s putting it in his mouth. Of course, a few cakes do not even make it past this phase. Jungkook lets Taehyung try the cakes first, eyes fixed on the older man as he gets acquainted with each flavor. Then Jungkook does the tasting himself. Taehyung learns to decode Jungkook’s cues. He nods if it’s a pass. He pouts if it’s a maybe. He sighs first if it’s a no then the tea comes spilling.

“What?” Jungkook asks.

“What?” Taehyung replies.

“What’s with that look?”

“Just wondering if there is anything remotely acceptable to you here. Is there anything you even like?” Taehyung smiles, almost fondly, his eyes turning to sparkling crescents as they meet Jungkook’s bright doe eyes. 

“Y-yeah,” Jungkook’s breath hitches. “Yeah, maybe there is something. D-did you like anything?”

Taehyung nods.

“What did you like best?”

“Oh, you’ll never guess.”

“Hah! You think? It’s too easy. My money’s on the strawberry mille-feuille.”

“The badly done Moulin Rouge.”

“Am I wrong though?” Jungkook challenges.

Taehyung looks at the man in front of him and he knows Jungkook is so wrong about what Taehyung liked best today. But how does he say he liked best all the faces that Jungkook made, the inflections in his voice and all the sounds that he produced, all the gestures that he put up especially when wielding the dessert fork like a judge’s gavel, the way his wavy locks fell on his face and the way he pulled them back and tucked them behind one ear with a tattooed hand, the way his lips opened and closed, the tiny movements they made, how they glistened after he has licked them, his eyes and how they told everything he wanted to say about the cakes without having to speak a single word? How can Taehyung say that’s what he liked best? So, he just shakes his head instead. “No, Jungkook, you’re not wrong. Hit the nail right on the head with that one.” And the younger one gloats.

They settle for classic chiffon (“half-decent, half-boring”), a three-tiered piece done in white fondant studded with silver candied balls and decorated at the base with flavored and colorful French macarons. He makes a mental note to send the photos to the couple and a video clip of Jungkook tasting it for good measure, including the macarons which he writes off as “barely-made-it bite-sized attempts at comfort pastry.” Taehyung interprets it as a pass and buys a bag for them to munch on during the ride back.

With their work at the patisserie done, Taehyung walks to the car, following closely behind Jungkook. Clutching his bag of macarons in one hand, he realizes that the younger one has taken his satchel, perhaps because Taehyung was too slow and Jungkook was impatient. The cake-tasting has taken all afternoon after all, and Jungkook probably had somewhere else to go. Taehyung feels somewhat apologetic, so he hustles and tails him. Too closely perhaps. But all because he doesn’t want to keep Jungkook waiting too long. But while walking to the car, instant gratification gets the better of him and he takes out a strawberry-flavored macaron to munch on. Before he can even lift it to his mouth, he bumps into something solid that turns the macaron into a bright red squishy on his blouse and on the pin-striped shirt in front of him.

“Yah!” Taehyung snarls.

“Oh, shit, Taehyung, I’m sorry,” Jungkook mutters frantically. “I didn’t know you were so close behind me and I just turned around without looking.” He takes out a handkerchief from his pocket and positions it against the ugly red blotch on Taehyung’s shirt. “May I?” he asks.

Taehyung just nods, seeing as his hands are also occupied—one hand with the bag of macarons, and the other with whatever remains of the pastry. Jungkook wipes the pastry and the cream off his chest while mumbling, “I really am so sorry. I’ll get you a new shirt if it doesn’t come off when you wash it.”

Taehyung assures him, “Nah, it’s okay. I’m sure it will. Why did you turn around anyway?”

“I wanted to use the restroom.” He replied, unfolding the handkerchief, and refolding it to show a cleaner side. He hands it to Taehyung, “For your hand. Do you want me to…?”

“I’ll do it myself, thanks,” He hands Jungkook the bag and takes the hanky, and wipes his hand. “You have some on your shirt, too.” Taehyung points out, noticing how Jungkook just stands there watching him wipe the goo and grub off his hand.

“Uh, yeah, I’ll take care of it in the restroom. I’ll be right back.”

Taehyung walks over to the counter. He asks for a tiny pastry bag for the soiled hanky. The pretty lady behind it, seeing the aftermath of the macaron incident on Taehyung’s shirt and hand, passes him a pack of wet wipes too.

“Oh, thank you,” Taehyung says in appreciation of the gesture.

“Did you find everything alright?” the lady asks with a kind smile. She looks a little younger than him. Her straight black hair falls right above her shoulders. “I mean, apart from your little accident there,” she indicates with a tiny, concerned smile.

Taehyung smiles back, a little embarrassed. “Uh, yeah. Sorry, it’s all good. I just a minor mishap with my companion on our way out. I’ll wait for him here if that’s alright. He’s…”

“Jeon Jungkook.” The lady declares with a sharp intake of breath.

“Yeah, that’s his name. How did you…” Taehyung’s voice trails as he feels a hand on the small of his back.

“Jieun-ssi.” He hears Jungkook say behind him, his voice deep and cold. “We’ll be on our way.” To Taehyung, he says, “Let’s go,” as his fingers close around the wedding planner’s wrist and he pulls him away. Taehyung manages a quick bow to the lady named Jieun as he had just learned and catches up before his hand is severed from the rest of his body with how tight Jungkook’s grip is and how strongly he is pulling him.

Taehyung does not need to be either a genius or a psychic to sense Jungkook’s distress in that 5-second encounter. “Do you want me to drive?” he offers.

“I got this,” Jungkook asserts with a hooded expression. Taehyung peers at him. The stars in his eyes seem to have gone out, and it made Taehyung feel so cold inside.

“Shall I bring you back to the office?” Jungkook asks, eyeing him quickly, long enough for Taehyung to catch the lost glint, like all the stars had gone to sleep. And for some reason, Taehyung can’t help but try to fix it. “Actually,” he replies, “I do need to make one more stop if that’s alright.”

Jungkook replies with a curt nod and Taehyung types in the location, babbling on a bit. “I just need to check out this place for prenup photos. I haven’t been there in a while, so I just need to look out for the perfect spots at sunset. Jin hyung tells me you dabble into photography, too. Good thing you’re with me then. It’s like having two assistants in one.”

Taehyung shifts in his seat and turns his body towards Jungkook. He folds his left leg and tucks his foot under his right thigh as he turns his attention to the younger. “But please don’t charge me double,” he jokingly pleads. “I still owe you a necktie as it is.” Jungkook grins. “I’ll think about it,” he mutters and smirks. And Taehyung will take that for now.

They park right outside a small café and make their way to Dongjak bridge. They follow the trail in silence, hands deep in their coat pockets, walking side by side until they fall in perfect step together. They make it just in time to see the sunset paint the sky in the hues it often chooses whenever winter approaches. Taehyung and Jungkook watch the magnificent canvass stretched out before them—the cityscape, the calm waters of the Han River, and the technicolored sky, everything done in purple and blue and pink and orange.

Taehyung sneaks a glance at Jungkook and finds the younger’s eyes already on him. Taehyung searches them for a second, for that light, and finding none of it, forces himself to look away.

“Too bad the stars aren’t out yet,” he laments.

“They will be here by and by, if you care to wait,” Jungkook says, turning to look at Taehyung again, who meets his gaze and warm smile with his own this time.

Jungkook peers at Taehyung. “This isn’t really part of the prenup photo plan, is it?”

Taehyung chuckles softly. “It was a no from Seokjin hyung from the start.”

“I was wondering if there had been a change of plans,” Jungkook confirms. “Yoongi hyung and I are directing the prenup photos and vids, you know.”

“A minor detail that the hyungs seem to have left out,” Taehyung mumbles as he looks away, his embarrassment creeping upon him. But just before he is overcome by humiliation, he feels a tug on his coat sleeve. “Hey,” he hears Jungkook say, prompting him to look at the younger again, who was now gazing earnestly at him, big doe eyes beaming back to life. “Thank you for bringing me here.”

If the stars came out just then in the autumn night sky over the Han River, neither Taehyung nor Jungkook would have noticed. There were other heavenly bodies to behold—bright young stars in someone’s eyes, the warm glow of the setting sun in another’s smile.   

“I just thought you could help me convince the hyungs about the prenup, Jeon.” Taehyung teases. “So?”

“Still a no.” Jungkook eyes him sharply. “But since you took up my entire afternoon and made me miss my dinner date, you have to make up for it by buying me dinner.” 

He had a date? Of course. If Taehyung’s heart sinks a bit, he chooses to ignore it. He rolls his eyes instead. “Unbelievable,” he says.

“I believe that has already been established,” Jungkook smirks. “Come on, Kim, feed me. I’m starving.”

Dinner comprises burgers and chili cheese fries enjoyed on outdoor seats still overlooking the Han River. The evening sky dons a blanket of stars like a hero’s cape, but Taehyung finds that the stars he likes best are not hung there. He tells himself that he just finds Jungkook’s eyes pretty, and when he looks into them, he finds strange comfort, vague familiarity, and some semblance of peace. And no one needs to attach any other meaning to it.

Yes, it is all too strange, Taehyung admits, for someone who can be so off-putting and emotionally exhausting to also be a soothing and reassuring presence for him, sometimes all of it happening in a span of hours or minutes. And if he didn’t know any better, he’d probably even think that it’s some kind of multiple personality disorder. Or that Jungkook has an actual twin, and they switch places when Taehyung is not looking. But truth be told, he likes all the Jungkooks that he has seen, real or imagined.

They skip the cakes and pastries for dessert and cap the evening with coffee and tea while drinking in the view and basking in the glow of moonlight and company.

“Won’t you even ask me who she is?” Jungkook wonders.

Taehyung shakes his head. “Like I’m entitled to some explanation just because I happened to be there with you?” He props an elbow on the table and leans forward to let his temple rest on his fisted palm as he looks at Jungkook with gentle eyes. “Nah.” He shakes his head again and gives Jungkook a tiny smile. “Am I curious though? Well, maybe. A bit. But only in the way I’m also curious about why the food is always colder when you eat it off someone else’s plate. Like, yeah, that’ll be nice to know but I can still go through life happily even if I didn’t and what matters is that I know enough to keep my chopsticks on my plate, in my own food, and in my mouth.”

“Just say you want me to tell you and go.”

“How about you just say you want to tell me and go?” Taehyung raises an eyebrow at him. “Clearly you have a lot to unpack. And since I’m done being a wedding planner for the day, I can just take off that hat and put on another one for you… Since you’ve been a big help and all.”

“Sounds kinky, Kim. I didn’t know you were into that stuff.” Jungkook teases.

“Aish. Forget it then, Jeon. I take my offer back. You really do ruin everything, don’t you?” Taehyung retorts playfully.

“Well, yeah, as a matter of fact, I kinda do,” Jungkook replies somberly, nodding thoughtfully and biting his lip as he does. The air around them suddenly shifts.

“Hey, I didn’t mean it like that.” Taehyung instinctively reaches out and puts a hand over Jungkook’s across the table. He gives it a tiny shake, a tug until Jungkook lifts his gaze from his lap to Taehyung’s eyes. “And you don’t have to tell me anything. We can just go and call it a night and forget about it if that’s what you want.”

“She was my last relationship.” Jungkook begins. Taehyung doesn’t realize he is stroking the back of the younger’s hand with his thumb while he speaks. “We were college sweethearts. But her ambition got the better of her. My apparent lack of one got the better of me. I was foolish enough to think I could hold on to her by asking her to marry me. But I should have known, even if she had said yes, that marriage was never a guarantee that people would never leave. Didn’t stop my dad either, so what was I even thinking?”

“It definitely takes more than a ring on a finger to make people stay, Jungkookie.” Taehyung surprises himself too with the nickname, but he figures he likes it and so it shall be. He adds, as his hand cradles Jungkook’s gently, “But you know what, the only people you need in your life, the only ones whose fingers are worth putting a ring on are those who choose to stay even without one.”

Jungkook slides his hand away from Taehyung’s. But before Taehyung could pull his own hand away, Jungkook laces and locks their fingers together, glancing shyly at Taehyung as he does so and goes back to staring at his lap.

“Yah, Jungkook,” Taehyung calls out and points at their entwined hands. “I’ve paid for all your fees for today.” The younger giggles, and the wheels in Taehyung’s mind spin, looking for ways to hear that sound again. Endeared doesn’t cut it; enamored is perhaps closer to how Taehyung feels. He pulls their hands closer to himself to force Jungkook to look at him again. “But seriously, remember that the people who walk away from you are just making more room for the one who is meant to stay. And if they’re not yet here, it only means that they’re still on their way. In the meantime, you have to get your heart ready for them to move in right away when they come. Got that?”

When Jungkook replies with a nose scrunch and inadvertently reveals himself to be an actual bunny disguised as a human, Taehyung silently vows to protect him forever and then bursts into peals of laughter that ring through the entire length of the Han River. And perhaps the sound of it is carried to the stars because for some reason, they begin to shine brighter. And Taehyung notices, so do Jungkook’s eyes. His work here is done, too, for now.

-o-

Something Borrowed

Jungkook hates that he had to let go of Taehyung’s hand when they got to the car. He hates that his stupid brain had turned to mush with the rest of him when Taehyung looked at him so gently and then held his hand, completely unaware of the devastation it brought on him. And now he cannot come up with any reason to hold Taehyung’s hand again. And his hand feels empty. And his insides have gone haywire that he really just wants to cry. He needs an excuse pronto, preferably one that’s smooth enough for what’s left of his pride to remain intact. Alas, at best, all he could do was leave his hand on the gear shift even if he is so used to driving with both hands on the wheel and hope that Taehyung, for some random reason, decides to take it. It’s pathetic, he knows, but it’s the closest he can get to holding Taehyung’s hand at this point. And if he has ever had any doubt before that getting close to Taehyung has become his ultimate goal in life, well, today, he has become unequivocally certain of that. And if in his desperation, he sends a silent prayer for Taehyung to take his goddamn hand again with a promise to never disrespect Namjoon or Yoongi again (he can’t bring himself to promise not to annoy Seokjin), it’s between him and the universe.

He tells himself he’s a fully grown man capable of communicating his wants and needs. But surely, no self-respecting person just expects him to say, “Taehyung, will you please hold my hand again?” in this instance, right? Not even all the formality any adult can feign will disguise how desperate he would seem—“Mr. Kim, I believe you’ve made the mistake of letting my hand go a while back. Would you mind rectifying that mistake and taking said hand again this instant?” No, he doesn’t think, “Dude, what the fuck, just take my hand, you know you want to” will solve the problem either. So, what is he to do? They’re probably halfway to Taehyung’s apartment and he’s driving at a snail’s pace, but his mind is racing at a hundred miles per second.

Then he feels it. Fingertips grazing the back of his hand. The touch is so deliciously warm it sends tingles down his spine. But it’s also so sudden that he startles and flinches. The fingers fly off before he could catch them, and the warm caress he had been longing for is gone.

“Sorry,” he and Taehyung say at the same time. Taehyung crosses his arm over and onto the other side to literally keep his hand away from Jungkook.

“I’m sorry…” Taehyung begins to say.

“No, no, no, no…” Jungkook replies frantically, stretching out his hand to Taehyung. “Kim Taehyung’s hand, please come back,” he pleads. “Taehyung, please, you startled me, that’s all. Please, let’s try that again.” So much for not sounding like a desperate high schooler with a hopeless, huge crush. I should have just gone for “Notice me, senpai.” His hand remains suspended for what feels like an eternity. His tears threaten to fall. Thankfully, Taehyung chooses mercy. Jungkook knows he shouldn’t close his eyes while driving, but the second Taehyung took his hand, he did so briefly as relief washed over him. He clutches Taehyung’s hand and brings it back to the gear shift with his on top of it. “You were saying?”

“Ah, I just wanted to ask about your tattoos actually… They’re very pretty.”

“My tattoos? You think so?” Jungkook feels the heat blossom on his face and ears, and he is thankful the darkness in the car is enough to mask how flushed he is. Damn his praise kink.   

Taehyung nods in reply. “Yeah… Do you have a lot? Which was your first one? And which ones are your favorites?”

Jungkook giggles. “Whoa, wait… One at a time. Do I have a lot? Depends on how you define a lot. But do I have them in other parts of my body? Pretty much, yes.” He glances at Taehyung and winks. “My first one? I’d have to take off my shirt to show you. We’ll save that for next time. And if you want to see the others, too.” He turns to Taehyung again and winks again and he doesn’t know which part of himself thinks what he’s doing is cool. He supposes it’s the same part where this almost idiotic, totally baseless confidence is from, the same part that should take the walk of shame if this thing blows up in his face.

Taehyung’s expression is a representation of what amusement and embarrassment would look like if they had a child. Jungkook rambles on. “Uhm, but among my favorites are the G clef and notes on my hand.” He lifts their joined hands and brings them closer to Taehyung’s face. “Do you see them?”

“Uh-huh.” Taehyung answers and traces the tattoo with his other hand. How Jungkook manages to not crash the car is a mystery. “It’s beautiful, Jungkookie. But why this?”

“A reminder to never give up on my music.”

“And how are you doing with that?”

“I’m producing, am I not?”

“But you said your music. That’s what I’m asking about.”

“I’ll get there… If I don’t come up with my own music in 5 years…”

“One.”

Jungkook shakes his head. “Four.”

“Two.”

“Three. Let’s be realistic here. Namjoon has to vet it before I can even start production. And he’s so nitpicky, I swear…”

“Fine, in 3 years. If you don’t come up with your own music in 3 years, then what?”

“I’ll have your name tattooed on my ass.”

They both laugh out loud for what seems like forever. “Deal.” Taehyung quickly agrees. “I think I should make you sign a contract for that.” And as they laugh again, Jungkook realizes that even his laughter and Taehyung’s go together. Like their hands do, fingers perfectly slotted like this. And he wonders what else of his would slot perfectly with Taehyung’s…

“Jeon.”

“Yeah?”

“You missed my building.”

“Wait, what?!” Out of it. Jungkook is so out of it and he better get Taehyung home before he completely loses it. “Sorry, Tae, I didn’t notice.”

“No biggie. You can tell me about another tattoo then.”

“Tell me first why you’re so invested in them. Other than they’re pretty.” Glance, wink. This is becoming a thing. “You want one, too, don’t you?”

“Well, yeah… For the longest time actually. But I don’t know, something, well, someone kept holding me back. Something about tainting a flawless, perfect landscape. I don’t really get it. I mean, it’s not even that great. But it’s been years too, so maybe now I can.”

“Taehyung, it’s your body. Yours. You decide what to do with it.”

“Not when you’re in that kind of a situation, I guess. Legal impediments. Media entanglements. But we’ll save that story, too, for another day, okay?”

Jungkook opens his mouth. He wants to say something else, but he’ll save it. There will be other days. Right now, he knows it’s his turn to give comfort and he squeezes Taehyung’s hand instead.

“I always thought it would be nice to get a string of fate tattoo. Cliché? I don’t care. Also, it’s a soulmate thing, isn’t it? Anyway, I want mine red and my partner’s blue. I want the strings wound around our fingers but as they move closer to each other, they slowly change to purple.” The image and the way Taehyung describes it tugs wildly at Jungkook’s heart. It’s beautiful. “If you could even get a man to agree to something as cheesy as that, then he just might be a keeper.”

Jungkook wonders, Did he totally miss the part where I just offered to have his name tattooed on my ass? Or is this his way of asking me to marry him?

“I know you could have them removed, too. But for me, there’s just a certain permanency to them. For one, you can’t take them off like rings. You can’t lose them. They’re really a part of you, you know. It’s strange, I know.”

 “I think it’s nice. I never thought of it that way actually. That tattoos can be more about commitments than rings are. Anyway, let me know if you ever decide to get one.”

“Will you help me? I have a few sketches I want inked on me.”

“Totally. I’d love to see those sketches, too. When you’re ready.”

They get to Taehyung’s apartment and Jungkook can’t let go of Taehyung’s hand for the older one to completely alight.

“I could get you a mold of it for Christmas,” Taehyung suggests.

“What?” Jungkook replies in confusion.

Taehyung raises their clasped hands.

“You could get me something better,” Jungkook offers.

“Like what?”

“I’ll let you know soon. You’ll need time to prepare it.”

“Oh? So, are we friends now, since you’ve somehow managed to end up on my Christmas list?”

“Uhm, no, we can’t be… Uhm no, wait, yeah, we’re friends now.”

“Okay then.” Without letting go of Jungkook’s hand, Taehyung pulls Jungkook closer, bring their joined hands to his back. He puts his free arm around the younger, pulling him even closer. The hug is over before Jungkook could register what happened. And Taehyung has let go of his hand. 

“Good night, bestie.” Taehyung says.

“Bestie?”

“Uh, Best Man, duh,” Taehyung rolls his eyes and pinches Jungkook’s cheek before finally alighting.

It takes Jungkook close to 10 mins before he could start his car and get going. Half because he waited for Taehyung to text that he was in his apartment already. And half because he was just too stunned to move.

-o-

The next day, Jungkook learns that Taehyung sleeps like the dead, and if you wake him up any time before 7, he will unleash on you his inner undead. Nothing could have prepared Jungkook for the amount of groaning and howling and flailing about and thrashing he had to put up with just to get Taehyung out of bed and into the shower. But Jungkook thinks it’s worth it to have seen Taehyung’s pancake face that early with his eyes barely open and his hair all over the place, to have been the first person to annoy him and on such a huge level that he threatens to dishonor you, your family, your neighbors, even your nonexistent cow. (How dare you make me open my eyes before the sun is even out. I revoke your Bestie card). It’s worth it to have watched from the observatory at Heukseok-dong how the sunrise cast its changing light on Taehyung’s face. Jungkook mentally kicks himself for not bringing his camera, but he figures stolen shots from his mobile cam should do for now.

Jungkook learns that as much as Taehyung loves the sunrise, he hasn’t actually seen it in years, not since his last vacation at his grandmother’s at Geochang before his family moved to the city when he was in middle school. “But maybe I should see it more often, right? Because the energy is something else.” Taehyung breathes it in. “And the vibe. Sunsets are all about goodbyes. But sunrises are all about beginnings.”

“I find that if I need some healing or I want to let go, I try to catch the sunset. And if I want to start something and I need hope or could use some courage, I watch the sunrise.”

“So, what exactly are you looking to start here, Jeon, by waking me up at ass o’clock?”

“A friendship? But I think a war with the undead works as well.”

Taehyung breaks off a bit of his chocolate-dipped biscotti and throws it at him. “You could have given me fair warning. Asshole.”

Jungkook chuckles. “In my defense, I had been calling you for half an hour before I started banging on your door.”

“That is not fair warning.” Taehyung rolls his eyes, recounting the earlier part of his morning. “Argh, it’s so embarrassing.”

“Dude, that was soooo entertaining.” Another biscotti bit flies off. Jungkook catches it and pops it into his mouth. “My only regret is not filming the whole thing.”

“I hate you.” Taehyung sulks. “Why do you always have to be annoying?”

A wide smile breaks on Jungkook’s lips. A nose scrunch preludes the thoughts he hopes to never share. Not yet anyway.

Because you’re cute when you’re caught off-guard and you’re trying to keep calm.

Because your eyes are the roundest and your cheeks go from honey to pink to red when you’re flustered, and your voice gets so deep my knees go weak.

Most of all, because when you’re pissed at me, you look at me and only me. And even if at that moment, in your mind, you’re sending me back to hell, your eyes are still on me. And maybe, just maybe, if you keep looking at me long enough, you will finally see me.

And shit, he didn’t say any of that aloud, right?

Taehyung is looking at him, as though waiting for a real answer.

“I’m not always annoying,” Jungkook argues.

“Yeah, just 99% of the time.”

“I say 50.”

“95.”

“60?”

“90 is probably the lowest I’d go.”

“Hey, Kim, cut me some slack. You’re forgetting I’m doing you another favor today by dropping you off at work after this.”

“After dragging me from my bed at an ungodly hour. 80%. And that’s being kind already.”

“Fine, I’ll take it.” Jungkook concedes. “So, if I’m only annoying 80% of the time, what am I like the other 20% of it?”

“Even more annoying. Like now.” The last bit of his biscotti flies, and that’s how Taehyung ends up eating only 20% of it.

Jungkook sends him a box of Plants vs Zombies cupcakes at around lunch, with a note saying “These made me think of you” and a crazy emoji. Taehyung sends him a selca holding up a cupcake and impersonating the zombie on it. Jungkook guffaws, slapping his thigh repeatedly as Namjoon eyes him with suspicion. Jungkook knows Namjoon has been keeping an eye closely on him in the last few days, but he’s too busy having fun to care. If Taehyung’s selca ends up as Jungkook’s wallpaper, it’s purely because he finds it so funny. And Jungkook reasons we all could really use a good laugh these days.

That day, Jungkook appoints himself as Namjoon’s errand boy for anything wedding-related. He is his best man after all, right? So, he’s really just doing his job when he picks up the wedding planner so he can meet with the calligrapher, the florist, the liturgist, the chef, the sommelier, and everyone else in the list as long as his schedule permits (if he rearranges his schedule to make it so, no one needs to know). It’s perfectly normal for the best man to call the wedding planner every day to ask for updates on the guest list and gift registry and tokens for the guests, right? And there’s nothing remotely suspicious about the best man dropping by the wedding planner’s office to confirm an appointment for an onsite visit to the venue for prenup shoot that he could have easily done through email or text. He just happened to be in the area, and can you blame a guy for being thorough and taking best man duties responsibly? He just wants to be sure that the message falls into the right hands along with the boxes of Chinese takeout that he bought for lunch.

Jimin who has come to know him by now greets him with a playful wink and a knowing smile at the reception. He didn’t have to be asked to dial Taehyung’s extension.

“Your boyfriend is here again,” he says dryly, looking directly at Jungkook, challenging the younger man to correct him. Jungkook just smirks and shrugs.

“What do you do mean he is not your boyfriend?” Jimin exclaims exaggeratedly. “Do you even know who is out here?” Jimin and Jungkook giggle.

“No, it’s not Leonardo di Caprio.” Jimin rolls his eyes.

“Uhm, sorry, no, not Chris Evans either. This one’s more of a Spiderman type than a Captain America.” What? Jimin mouths at Jungkook.

“Am I sure it’s not—” Jimin removes the receiver from his ear and covers the mouthpiece, looking every inch exasperated. “This bitch, I swear,” he says to Jungkook through gritted teeth. Then going back to the call, he says, quite composed, “Taehyung, baby, we’ve talked about this before. You have to give up on Hugh Jackman already. He’s never leaving his wife for you. Or anyone for that matter.”

“Clue? You really need a clue?”

“Starts with a J. Ends with an ungkook. Know anyone?”

“No? No one? Not interested?” Jimin raises an eyebrow at Jungkook whose tongue pokes at his inner cheek and who suddenly seems like he’s having none of it.

“B-but, baby, he has Chinese takeout that can feed a multitude.”

“Send him in, whoever he is?” Jimin laughs. “Best decision you made all day, partner. See you in the kitchen.”

“He has a crush on Hugh Jackman?” Jungkook inquires as soon as Jimin puts the phone down and they make their way to the office kitchen. Jimin takes some of the bags from Jungkook.

“Obsessed with a capital O.” Jimin shapes his full lips into the letter. “Logan days, my ears would bleed with all his fantasies about those abs and goddamn claws. But between you and me, I think he fell the hardest when he learned about the kind of husband Hugh Jackman is in real life.” Jimin pauses. “Wait, why do you even ask? Aren’t you just here to deliver lunch and some piece of information that you could have probably just texted me or anyone from the office about?”

“See, this is why I like it better when Jia-ssi sees me in. Where is she anyway?”

“Took the day off for a legit date. Probably got tired of the pretend ones she’s been seeing around here lately. And was that an attempt to change the subject, Jeon? Is it too soon for that conversation?” Jimin teases.

“Don’t you think it’s too soon for anything?”

“Depends on whose rules you’re going by, I guess. I just think, if you like him, you ought to tell him sooner or later.”

Jungkook scoffs. “Don’t you think he already knows?”

“Are we talking about the same person here? Have you no idea how oblivious Kim Taehyung is when it comes to stuff like this? He needs to hear it loud and clear, straight from the horse’s mouth. And even then, he might still question things. And I might as well warn you if he likes the person back, he’s an even bigger idiot than he usually is. So, it’s gonna get messed up, Spidey, if you don’t tell him directly.”

“Wait, you think, you think Taehyung might like me?” Jungkook asks with his doe eyes going even rounder and bigger than they are already.

Jimin stops right outside the kitchen door, stares at Jungkook, then groans in frustration before he pushes the door open with his shoulder. He exhales, “God help me, they’re both idiots.”     

Jungkook opens his mouth to ask what exactly Jimin meant, but he is interrupted by a voice sweet and thick as honey saying, “Jungkookie!” as he and Jimin enter the office kitchen which doubles as their dining area and pantry. Jungkook notices that Hobi who is Jimin’s boyfriend and their other partner in the business is there, too. They have also met several times in the last few weeks that Jungkook has been either camped out in their office or was being Taehyung’s personal chauffeur, all under the guise of playing the role of a dutiful best man. Jimin and Hobi both have very vibrant personalities. But while Jimin is snarky and sassy, Hobi’s presence is simply positive and welcoming. He smiles at Jungkook widely as he sees him. Jungkook replies with a casual salute.

Jungkook and Jimin put the takeout on the round table where Taehyung and Hobi are already seated. Jimin takes the seat beside Hobi, of course, which leaves Jungkook to take the other empty seat on Taehyung’s left. “Oh, so now I’m Jungkookie?” he spouts at Taehyung as he sits beside him, eyeing the wedding planner suspiciously who has started unpacking the food. “I thought you didn’t know any Jungkook.”

Taehyung stops in the middle of opening one plastic pack and looks at the younger one beside him. He flicks Jungkook’s chin as he says, “That’s because I only know Jungkookie, silly. Now, be quiet, and let’s eat.”

“Don’t I get a thank you for the food at least?”

Taehyung strikes a flower pose for him. “Thank you, Jungkookie,” he says in a saccharine tone then proceeds to roll his eyes at the younger with fake annoyance. Then he taps Jungkook’s arm and instructs him. “Now open your mouth and try this.”

Taehyung proceeds to shovel morsel after morsel of food into Jungkook’s mouth, pausing only to feed himself, too. Jungkook glares at the couple in front of him eyeing him and Taehyung, exchanging glances, and giggling quietly together. Jungkook almost forgets to mention the prenup date to them, had it not been for Yoongi calling him incessantly to follow up. He leaves only in time for a contract signing at his office. And if he’s back in Taehyung’s apartment that night, it’s only for an Overwatch rematch and to catch up on the latest episode of this drama that Taehyung has been watching and Jungkook has been teasing him endlessly about. If anyone asks, they are just two people enjoying each other’s company, and that is that.

-o-

Something Blue

But Jungkook knows all too well the ginormous amount of trouble he has gotten himself in. At first, like most idiots, he didn’t know, he didn’t have words for what was happening. All he knows is that, when it comes to Taehyung, there is always that undeniable, irrepressible pull. When it started, he thought it was just an attraction because if Taehyung is not the most beautiful human being to ever walk the planet, then who is? He has always had Jungkook’s full attention the minute he first laid his eyes on him. And it was just fair, right, for Jungkook to want the other man’s attention, too, and this despite being the biggest introvert he is, one whose life goal can well be to be that singular rock in a garden, just minding his own business day in and day out, season after season. But since the first time he met Taehyung, it was inexplicable, the way Jungkook felt so unsettled whenever he didn’t have Taehyung’s attention. Taehyung’s eyes on him were like a remedy for a disease he didn’t know he had. And Jungkook thought soon enough when he’s cured, he’ll stop needing it. No one warned him that the drug had a hopelessly addictive side effect, and now he’s hooked. And he’ll take it in any dose, from a harmless text message to lowkey flirting to public displays of (friendly) affection. His condition has rapidly progressed from a mild case of wanting Taehyung’s attention to a more serious one of craving his company 24/7. And his prognosis is if things go on like this, this will definitely be the end of life as he knows it.

Most days, Jungkook is too giddy about everything to seriously entertain his slowly rising fear of rejection. He lets himself bask in the warm sunshine of Taehyung’s presence (yes, even if half the time he’s more of a hurricane ravaging and unraveling Jungkook with a single stare) and ignores the acrid dread softly bubbling on the surface. He wants Taehyung like he’s never wanted anything in his life, as though he gravitates to no other path than Taehyung’s in a speed that is almost like freefall, like Jungkook is forever crashing into him.  That much was clear to him since Day One. But when he thinks of Taehyung lately, he wants Taehyung, too, in a way that is like the well-worn feel of an old sweater or the domesticity of late-night laundry or the familiarity of socked feet tangled under a warm blanket. He wants Taehyung with the promise of a sunrise and the certainty of a sunset, the faithfulness of stars and the constancy of a string inked around his finger. That much he has admitted to himself now. But Jungkook knows the resoluteness on which that kind of wanting has to be built. It is a path that must be laid out brick by brick. And time has to be a friend if he is to build a forever as unyielding as that.

Which is why there is something ominous in the way Taehyung tells him over the phone, a few days later, “Can we talk?” It fills Jungkook with anxiety on an intensity scale he’s never known before. What could Taehyung possibly want to talk about? He knows Taehyung well enough by now to know that he didn’t sound like what he has to say is even remotely related to Namjoon and Seokjin’s wedding. No, Taehyung is not coming here with his wedding planner hat on and he’s definitely not coming to see Jungkook as the best man.

Jungkook paces to and fro in his apartment as he waits for Taehyung to arrive. He’s been like this in the last few hours. He walks about, a mess in a black graphic shirt and black sweat pants. His hair is haphazardly bundled into a bun. He’s cracking his knuckles and biting his nails. He makes coffee because the smell comforts him. He knows Taehyung likes the smell, too, even if he’ll never touch the drink. He wonders what Taehyung has to say that he cannot say over the phone that he has to go all the way to his apartment. Not that they haven’t hung out here before. It’s just that there was so much foreboding in Taehyung’s voice. Jimin’s voice from a while back echoes in his head, “Is it too soon for this conversation?” Jungkook doesn’t know. All he knows is that in the last few weeks, he’s been looking forward to every new day with Taehyung, and when he looks back at each day that passes, he cannot help but smile to himself. And he doesn’t want to ruin that. He doesn’t want to ruin anything. Not for him or Taehyung or anyone. Certainly not when they’re so close to the wedding and to whatever he and Taehyung might become.

There’s no denying that things have shifted between them since that evening at the Han River. Even if they never spoke about it, Jungkook knew then that he can rely on Taehyung and that Taehyung has become his friend. And that’s also why since then he has only ever tried to become someone Taehyung can rely on as well. Of course, this arrangement, his being short of a manservant, guy Friday, knight in shining armor to Taehyung serves him well, too. Having Taehyung in his life puts a spring in his step, pumps his blood in all the right places, and makes all the bad juju go away. It gives him reason to get out of bed, mess up his covers by himself, stay in the shower a little longer, eat well, miss meals, take his daily vitamins, work out harder, work harder, skip work altogether, turn up the volume on the speaker, sing to himself, sing out loud, laugh quietly, laugh until he chokes on his own spit, sleep well, lose sleep. It gives him reason to be more of himself and also to want to be a way better man than he is.

So sure, yes, okay, in fewer words, maybe his little crush has now evolved into something else. And this latest development has had him pulling back on the gunslinging bravado and putting in more of his regular programming, not so much as a way of selling himself but just getting ready for the long haul, as he sees it’s not just a 15-second ad he wants to get out of this, no, not even a 3-part series or a full-length movie. He’d very much like to be on a 24/7 reality TV. But only if Taehyung would be in it with him. Truth be told, he hasn’t really given much thought to how Taehyung feels about him. He could probably name all the times in the last few weeks that Taehyung literally wanted to smack him on the head and all the times he knew that Taehyung’s thought bubble just read, “If only I could send this demon back to hell.” But all those times, Taehyung’s eyes have never been unkind. So Jungkook knows Taehyung accepts him, even at his worst. Taehyung is a safe place he’d never want to leave. If Jungkook’s feelings end up complicating things, then he’ll just have to learn to give them up. And if that’s what Taehyung came to talk about then it’s sad times for his sex life. His dick can be an unwilling sacrifice; the rest of him will still happily take what Taehyung gives.

The buzz at the door startles Jungkook. He lets Taehyung in. “Hi, Taehyung. Come on in.”

Taehyung barely gets inside when he begins to speak. “Uh, I’m sorry to bother you really. I don’t think I can stay. I just came to return these.”

He hands a paper bag to Jungkook. The younger peeks into it and sees his infinity scarf from that day at the atelier, and the hanky he let Taehyung borrow when they had that little accident at the patisserie.

“Sorry, I didn’t get to return them sooner,” Taehyung says. “My cleaning lady put them away, and I forgot all about still having them with me. So there, thanks.”

Jungkook searches Taehyung’s face as he speaks. “Is that all, Taehyung? I thought you wanted to talk. You sounded kinda serious on the phone I thought something was wrong. Is there a problem with the wedding?” Taehyung shakes his head. Jungkook knows something is definitely off, but he is afraid so he tells himself he will let Taehyung tell him in his own time. In the meantime, his goal is to make Taehyung stay, buy more time with him, so he suggests, “Well, whatever it is, you can tell me later. How about you stay for dinner and a movie? We can just order in. Whatever you like. You could pick a movie, too. Or, that drama you like…” Jungkook rambles on as he walks into his kitchen, thinking Taehyung is right behind him. But the older man seems to be glued to his spot by the door.   

“Tae?” Jungkook traces his steps back to Taehyung.

“Uhm, I know I said I wanted us to talk. But on the way here, I kept thinking and… I don’t know. I don’t know what to say anymore. But I have questions.”

“Questions,” Jungkook echoes, the tension building up inside him again even as he tries to keep up a calm and collected front. “For me? About what? Come sit,” he pulls Taehyung to the couch with him, knowing he needs to sit and steady himself perhaps more than Taehyung does. 

“Jungkook, I think I have something else that belongs to you. If I’m wrong, then maybe I can tell you a story about it another time.”

“And if you’re right?”

“If I’m right, then I’m sorry it took me years to return this to you.”

Jungkook looks at the item in Taehyung’s hand. A light blue handkerchief monogrammed with JJK on one corner and on top of it, a lotus flower, an emblem of the Jeon clan. Identical to the one that he has just returned.

Jungkook is shellshocked.

“Taehyung…”

Something Old, Something Borrowed, Pt. 2

Five years ago.

Jungkook is late. His mom, whom he has agreed to accompany to a business partner’s wedding, is already in the church, fuming mad at him. He’s sure of this on account of the nonstop buzzing and beeping of his mobile phone as he frantically drove. But at this point, what Jungkook isn’t sure of is if she’ll be angrier because he’s late or that his hair is blue. To make matters worse, he totally forgot that this was slated to be the wedding of the century. Some filthy rich bombshell model landed the heir to the throne of the biggest real estate empire in South Korea—sweethearts, he hears. So, of course, practically all of the South Korean elite are here. And although the cathedral is built to hold supercharged gatherings like this over all the centuries that it has stood in its place, Jungkook can’t seem to find a single parking space and none of the valets are on sight. So, he keeps circling the church entrance, hoping a valet would turn up or he’ll run out of gas or he’ll get a message from his mother to actually just forget about the whole thing and go back to the basement of their mansion to the song that he was trying to finish.  

All the guests seem to have entered the church. He’s idling at the entrance and takes out his phone to check if his mom has replied to him yet. He is focused on his phone screen, but from the corner of his eye, he catches sight of a figure rushing towards his car. He is surprised when the door opens, and someone slides into the backseat. Jungkook’s mind registers black hair, black suit, red corsage, long, slim fingers with the prettiest rings on them covering a flushed face strewn with tears.

The man doesn’t even look at him. He just cries, “Please, please, please, sir, drive away, drive away now. I’m begging you, please. I’ll do anything. Just please, please go.”

Jungkook takes a split-second to decide as he sees other figures rushing out the antique structure. And perhaps it is his penchant for mischief or the man’s sheer desperation that gets to him. He speeds away with the man in a black suit who was, unbeknownst to him at the time, the other groom in the wedding of the century that never got to happen.   

Jungkook stops at a convenience store to get some water. He takes off the bottle cap when he gets into the car and extends his arm to the backseat to hand it to the man who is huddled to himself and still sobbing uncontrollably. Jungkook sees his face better now. He is still beautiful despite the tears and red blotches and snot. Jungkook takes out his handkerchief and gives it to him, thinking to himself that these useless things that his mom has insisted on putting in his pockets for years have finally found good use.  

“Here,” he says gently. “Is there anywhere I can bring you? Anyone I could call for you?”

“May I make one phone call?” Jungkook is taken aback by his passenger’s voice. No longer frantic and pleading, it’s deep and thick and beautiful. Jungkook takes his phone from the front seat and hands it to him.

“Here you go. If my mother calls, just drop it. And don’t worry, she’s used to it.” he says and steps out to give the man some privacy, leaning against his car in his own all-black suit, catching his breath as he tries to gather what just happened. He starts to question whether he did the right thing. Is the passenger who his intuition tells him he is? What if he’s just a random well-dressed guy that has just committed a crime and now Jungkook is an accomplice? He wonders if anyone took note of his car plate. He is thankful he brought one of the family cars then. But still, if anyone is able to identify the car, it could all… His thoughts are interrupted by a knock on the window, his passenger is done with the call.

“Thank you,” the man says as Jungkook gets in and receives his phone. He takes a mental snapshot of the man’s puffy eyes and red nose, and don’t judge if he also focuses a bit on the man’s full, red lips that he kept wetting as he spoke. “And your mom called, but I dropped it as you said.”

“Great,” Jungkook replies. “Is there anything else I can do for you?”

The man nods, eyes fixed on Jungkook’s. “If it’s not too much to ask, could you drive me to the airport?”

Because Jungkook understands despair and desolation, and maybe because, looking into the man’s eyes, Jungkook saw a semblance of himself, the part that is caged and bound and desperately seeking release, he drives to Incheon. When they get there, a young woman in a business suit was already waiting for the man. She had with her small suitcase and a manila envelope.

The man tells him. “I’m sorry for your trouble. My staff over there, she can…”

“No.” Jungkook cuts him off. “There will be no need for that.”

They stand in front of each other in silence, amidst a throng of travelers preparing to depart for some foreign land. Jungkook wonders how many of them are flying off to something new and how many are just going home, who among them are chasing a dream or who are running away from a nightmare. And this man here in front of him, where does he really fit in there?

“Will you be alright?” Jungkook asks.

“I don’t know,” the man replies. “But I know that if I don’t leave right now, I’ll never be alright. You know, you’re the kindest person I have ever met. I’ll pray every day for your happiness. Even if I never see you again, I promise you that. With every sunrise, I will wish you hope and joy. With every sunset, gratitude and rest.”

“I hope… I hope you find your smile again.”

“I hope you find your forever. Someone as kind as you should. I’ll pray for that, too.” The man pulls Jungkook into a tight hug, and for some reason, Jungkook finds himself hugging him back and watching him leave with a tightness in his chest that didn’t go away for days, weeks, until it was buried underneath the humdrum of his daily life and it turned into a silent, pervading, inexplicable numbness he never told anyone about. Later on, when all the pieces came together, Jungkook learned the man’s name and he realized the secret part he played in the most anticipated wedding that had gone to ashes. But he never saw Kim Taehyung again until that day in the same church where he saw him first.

-o-

Something Blue, Something New, Pt 2

“Your hair was blue.”

Jungkook grunts. “Is that really all you remember?”

“You knew all this time?”

Jungkook nods, suddenly feeling ashamed that he had kept it from Taehyung.

“Why didn’t you tell me?”

“You didn’t recognize me that day in the church. So, what was the point? Besides, if I were you, I’d want to forget about something like that, too. I’d be the last person to remind you of that day, Taehyung.”

“But I didn’t want to forget. Not that day. Not you.”

“Yet you did. And good for you, Taehyung, really.”

“I regretted not asking for your name. In my distress, I could barely remember your face by the time I got to the plane. Save for your eyes. And your hair. It frustrated me so much that it was all I could hold on to of the angel that saved me. So here,” Taehyung hands him a thick sketchbook. “I hope it doesn’t creep you out. I prayed for you every day as I promised. I still do. And often when I prayed for you, especially right after it happened, I painted you or sketched you so I could think of you as though you’re happy. And it gave me so much comfort.”

Jungkook couldn’t believe what he was hearing. He looks at the sketchbook that Taehyung handed him. “Blue,” it says on the cover. He scans through it and sees page after page of him as Taehyung imagined him over the years, splotches of blue hair, doe eyes.

“I never got to thank you.”

“You didn’t have to. Come here.” Jungkook puts the sketchbook down on a side table and reaches out with both hands to Taehyung who pulls him in for a hug. “I’m sorry I didn’t tell you. I was going to, but I was looking for the perfect time. You’re not mad, are you?”

“I can never be mad at you. Not after today. I’m just happy I found you again.”

“Does this mean…”

“Does this mean what?”

The tension that hangs in the air is thick.

“Does this mean I can keep annoying you?”

Taehyung laughs. “Since when did you ever let anything or anyone stop you?”

“It’s just that you’re so cute when you’re annoyed, hyung.” Jungkook freezes after realizing what he has just said.

“I’m what now?” Taehyung asks, his tone teasing, playful.

“Oh, shoot, let it go, will you? You didn’t hear anything.” Jungkook pulls away a bit to look Taehyung in the eye. Seeing the playful glint, he pouts, “Just this once, hyung. Forget I said anything.”

“And I’m also hyung to you now?”

“Would you rather I’m the hyung?”

Taehyung’s face turns beet red instantly. “Never.”

“I see… I see how it is,” Jungkook observes. “But since we’re here, Taehyung hyung, and you wish to thank me, how about you order us chicken and beer for dinner, and I’ll find us a nice movie to watch?”

-o-

That evening ends with them asleep, cuddled together on Jungkook’s couch. Taehyung’s head is nestled against Jungkook’s chest, his fluffy caramel hair splayed against it, one hand fisting the younger’s shirt as though he would disappear if Taehyung let go of it. Jungkook’s arms are tightly wound around Taehyung, a tattooed hand gripping the older man’s sleeve, one massive thigh draped over Taehyung’s thin, long limbs. Many more nights end up in a similar way after that. Whether they are in Jungkook’s apartment or Taehyung’s, on a cramped couch or in a spacious bed, their bodies would always mold together, and they would always fall asleep in each other’s arms.

During the day, they are the inseparable two, former strangers, almost enemies, now firmly joined at the hip. With Namjoon and Seokjin’s wedding drawing near, they find more excuses to be together. They allow themselves to be apart only when they absolutely have to be. Some would say it’s the newness of everything. Others would know, in the way they are to each other, in their little touches and subtle gestures, in the profound language of their eyes, that these are two pieces of the same whole that had finally found each other.

Coming to terms with the past event that brought their fates together was just another turning point for them. It bound them together in a way that their irresistible attraction alone to each other could never do. Like magnets, they quivered in their restlessness until finding each other again, Jungkook found purpose and Taehyung learned a new name for peace.

But as things go when anyone finds a pearl of great price, the more precious the pearl, the stronger the fear that lurks in one’s heart and quietly gnaws away at it. And sometimes, no matter how loudly and clearly one’s actions speak, where there are no words, love falls on deaf ears.

At night, when he is in Jungkook’s arms, Taehyung is afraid that the younger man would hear his heart thumping in his chest. Taehyung is afraid Jungkook would feel how hard he gets when their bodies are pressed so closely together. Taehyung is afraid he might say or do something in his sleep that would reveal how he feels. Taehyung is afraid he may have already done so. Taehyung is afraid that he’s making Jungkook uncomfortable, but the younger is just being too kind to him all over again. Taehyung is afraid that Jungkook would get tired of being too kind and cut off all ties with him. Taehyung is afraid of losing him again and forever.

The bottom line is Taehyung is afraid. And when Taehyung is afraid, he talks to Jimin. He is not sure it always helps, but Taehyung talks to him, nonetheless.

“Taehyung baby, you know I love you. But there’s a healthy limit to the daily amount of idiocy I am willing to expose myself to, and hunny, you just used up my quota for the entire week.”

“But, Jiminie, it’s an honest question.”

“Which, at this point, you should no longer be asking if you weren’t that big of an idiot.”

“What is even fundamentally wrong with me asking if Jungkook likes someone when I really don’t know the answer?” Jimin is amazed at the level of cluelessness that Taehyung is in. Taehyung continues, “You know, we’ve been spending quite some time together.”

“Oh, I know… And it’s not just some time, hun. Anyway, go on.”

“And I just can’t help but notice how happy he seems lately. He used to be gnarly and snarky 80% of the time, but lately, he always seems to be in a good mood. He’s always smiling and laughing and doing nice things for people.”

“You’re people…He only does nice things for you.”

“Oh, come on. That’s not true. Jungkookie is kind to everybody. But anyway, as I was saying, there’s a certain glow around him lately.”

“Yeah, like the one you see in your own mirror?”

“Exactly! And I can’t help but think… That’s how I am when I’m in love?”

“Uh-huh. Are you listening to yourself now?”

“Yeah. But you know… So, I’m thinking maybe Jungkook is in love.”

“And if he is?”

“Well, shouldn’t he be spending time with the person he loves? Because lately, he’s been spending practically all his time with me.”

“So, in conclusion…?”

“Maybe I’m getting in the way?”

“Oh. My. God… Congratulations, Taehyung. You have just outdone yourself again.”

“I know, right? You always say I’m clueless about these things. But, see, I’ve figured it out.”

“Uhm, no, hunny, that’s not what I meant.”

“Well, whatever… So, I was thinking maybe I should start seeing less of Jungkook from now on. So you know, he will have more time to be with the person he likes. And then he can be happier. I will miss my Jungkookie for sure, but he needs to be with the person he likes, right?”

Jimin is done, so done that he just says, “Sure, Taehyung, you do that. Let’s just sit back and see what level of hell and damnation shall fall upon all of us.”

“I can’t see how—”

“That’s exactly the problem, Taehyung. You can’t see...”

The two are interrupted by an urgent rap on the door. “Taehyung-ssi?”

Taehyung breathes a huge sigh. “Yes, Jia-ssi?” he asks.

“There is a Do Jihan here to see you?”

Taehyung stills upon hearing the name. His eyes turn to Jimin instantly. Jimin who was, seconds ago, prepared to strangle him in frustration has walked over to him quickly and put a protective arm around him.

“Not if he sees me first.” Jimin declares.

“No, Jiminie,” Taehyung counters. “Let me. I’m ready.”

“Taehyung baby…”

“It’s been 5 years, Minnie. I need this. And maybe he does, too. So, we can both move on. Don’t you think it’s time I did?”

“I think you have moved on, Taehyung. And if you can stop being an idiot for once, I think you’ll know what I mean. But yeah, okay, maybe this is the last thing you need.”

“I just wanna happier, Minnie.”

“And you will be.” Jimin hugs Taehyung. “Go, get your closure, baby.”

-o-

Idiot #2 arrives at the scene much later. He inquires about Taehyung’s whereabouts, and Jimin willingly fills him in.

Jungkook does not know how to process the thought of Taehyung with the person who never showed up for him at the altar, the one who betrayed him and completely humiliated him, the reason he fled to another country and stayed away from everyone he knew for years.

Jungkook does not understand what “tying up loose ends” means. Aren’t things just over when they’re over? Don’t people just close that book and never open it again? Unless they’re trying to add another chapter.   

“I see,” Jungkook mulls dejectedly. “I get it now.”

Jimin sees the forlorn expression and is willing to bet his entire Beyonce collection that Jungkook has it all wrong. “Uh, no, no, no, you don’t.”

“Yes, I do. Taehyungie hyung is still in love with him, and now that that idiot man has realized his mistake, they’re going to start over again.”

“Exes to lovers? That your trope now?” Jimin sneers. “I’ll tell you what… The only trope I’d put Taehyung’s story in right now is Strangers to lovers. Maybe Soulmates, too. Definitely Idiots in love. Other tags would be Mutual pining, Taehyung is clueless, Jungkook is whipped, Jungkook is an idiot, Jimin is a sweetheart, Jimin is the real MVP.”

Jungkook’s mouth drops open. Jimin frowns. “Okay, so that didn’t help. Let’s try again… I swear I don’t get paid enough for this. And where is my boyfriend when I need him?”

“It’s okay,” Jungkook tells Jimin. “There’s nothing to discuss, really. As long as Taehyung is happy, I’m happy, too.”

“Aren’t you your biggest cockblocker?”

“My cock’s just fine, thank you very much. It has absolutely nothing to do with Taehyung, too.”

“Oh? So, if he asks me again if I think you’re in love with someone, Jungkook, what do I say?”

“Just tell him I am. He doesn’t need to know with whom.”

“Of course, because he’ll never guess, will he? So, when he tells me again that he should give you space so you can be with the person you love, I’ll just smile and nod, right, Jungkook?”

“He.. He’s planning to stay away from me?”

Jimin nods excitedly. “100/10 would do the same if I had the choice but for totally different reasons. He’s doing it so you can spend more time with the person you’re in love with.”

“But it’s him! What a fucking idiot! It's him! How can Taehyung not know that I’m in love with him?” Jungkook screams in frustration. Jimin puts a finger to his lips to cue Jungkook into silence. They are in an office after all. But Jungkook was too far gone to notice it. “You know what, I never thought I'd say this but you’re darn right, Jimin. Taehyung is such an idiot. An idiot, I swear. A very beautiful one though. God, I’m in love with an idiot!”

“Well, he’s your idiot.”

“Is he? Mine, I mean?”

“I don’t know, Jungkook. Do you want him to be?”

“Yes! Of course, I do! I’d fight Hugh Jackman for him if he wanted me to.”

“That’s ambitious, I would say.”

“Yeah, I—” Jungkook begins to reply. Then he realizes, Wait a darn minute, that wasn’t Park Jimin.

Because Park Jimin is snickering in front of him. Park Jimin is watching with too much amusement as Jungkook’s expression shifts from disbelief to confusion to panic, and his eyes turn murderous as he stares at Jimin in the end. “In my defense, I did this,” Jimin does the silence gesture again. “Did you not see?”

Jungkook shakes his head. He does not dare to look behind him though. He is afraid. Very afraid.

The voice starts again. “Mr. Jeon, I’ll see you in my office.”

“You had one job, Park Jimin.” Jungkook fumes.

“And I think I’ve finally done it.” Jimin retorts victoriously. “Off with you now, Mr. Jeon. Your destiny awaits.”

The walk to Kim Taehyung’s office was too short, and Jungkook’s brain was too fried and his nerves, too frayed for him to be able to plan anything that may potentially redeem him.

“Have a seat, Mr. Jeon,” Taehyung instructs.

Jungkook wants to protest, but he just finds himself obliging instead, taking his place in the leather seat in one corner of Taehyung’s office. Taehyung takes his seat behind his desk, putting a clear, physical distance between them.

“Your date ended early.” Jungkook spits out despite himself. Way to go, jealous non-boyfriend.

“What can I say, he was quick to satisfy me,” Taehyung says with a smirk.

And Jungkook concludes he cannot do this. “Good for you then. I’ll be off. I’m needed at the office.”

“Oh? Didn’t Namjoon hyung give you the day off so we could go pick out your tie?”

“Yet off you went, cavorting with your ex-lover.”

Taehyung does not comment on that. And it unsettles Jungkook even more. He wanted Taehyung to deny it. But he didn't. So was he really?

Taehyung asks instead, “Am I not here now? Did I not come back for you?”

“You made me wait," Jungkook accuses. "With Jimin,” he adds spitefully.

“And I heard you say the darndest things.” Taehyung giggles as he gets up from his seat and takes the few strides that he needs to take the seat right beside Jungkook. “You always do. When you think I’m not listening.”

“Oh yeah? Well, context is key, Mr. Kim. I’m pretty sure I can explain everything. Where do you want me to begin?”

“How about the part where you called me an idiot?”

“That needs no context. You just are.”

“And whose idiot am I?”

“That’s for you to decide.”

“I know. But I am asking for your opinion.”

“I don’t have one on the subject.”

“That’s a first. Whose idiot do you think I want to be?”

“I don’t know.”

“Aren’t you an even bigger idiot yourself then?”

“Well, at least I don’t go running back to what I desperately ran away from.”

“Who says I am?”

“Wait, you’re not? So, what was that? A wham-bam-thank-you-sir for old times’ sake?” Jungkook glares at Taehyung, daring him to reply but really dreading what he will say.

“You’re the cutest when you’re jealous.”

“Who says I’m jealous?”

“I do.” Taehyung declares with certainty. “And I’m also saying if you plan to fight Hugh Jackman for me, you better have something more than that jealous act up your sleeve.”

Jungkook figures he may as well be brave, go down trying or something. “Tell me first what you did with your ex-lover.”

“I’ll tell you what I didn’t do with him.”

Taehyung gets up from his seat and walks over to Jungkook, telling the younger and showing him at the same time what he didn’t do with the ex-lover that the younger was so threatened with.  

Taehyung sits on Jungkook’s lap and begins:

“I didn’t sit on his lap like this.”

“I didn’t put my arms around his neck like this.”

“I didn’t gaze at his face like this. I certainly didn’t tuck his hair behind his ear like this.”

“Maybe he had short hair,” Jungkook chimes in, half pouty, half breathless.

“That’s not the point. Keep up, Jeon. Unless you want me to stop.”

“No!” It was embarrassing how quickly that escaped from Jungkook’s lips. “Go on. Please.”

“Well, if you insist… I didn’t nuzzle against his neck like this.”

“I see,” Jungkook remarks, his chest heaving, his breathing ragged. His hands find Taehyung’s waist and plant themselves there to keep the older steady in case he suddenly changes his mind about all this.

Taehyung lips begin to trace an invisible line from behind Jungkook’s ear to his neck and his jawline. Jungkook hisses and his grip on the older man’s waist tightens. “If you think, I planted tiny kisses from his neck to his jawline like this, well, I didn’t.”

“You’re wrong, too, if you think I nibbled on his ear like this.” Taehyung nipped on an earlobe, slotting his tongue in the silver loops on Jungkook’s ears. A soft moan escapes from Jungkook’s lips.

Taehyung whispers in Jungkook’s ear, “I didn’t kiss his face like he’s the most precious thing.” And proceeds to do just that. He cups Jungkook’s face with both hands and slowly, almost reverently plants kisses all over it. Jungkook’s lips quiver with anticipation. His heart feels like it’s about to explode. His hands seem to have found their way under Taehyung’s shirt and have started stroking the smooth skin underneath, but Taehyung doesn’t seem to mind.

Taehyung looks at him lovingly. He brings his nose to the younger’s. “No, I didn’t rub my nose on his like this.”

“Did you kiss him on the lips?” Jungkook finally asks.

“Hmm, let me think…”

An exasperated Jungkook voices out, “Taehyung, what the actual fuck…”

Taehyung giggles. He stares into Jungkook’s eyes and smiles. There was no way for Jungkook not to smile back.

“I didn’t kiss him on the lips, Jungkookie,” Taehyung says as he leans forward to close the gap between their lips. A light peck has Taehyung pulling back to look into Jungkook’s eyes. Jungkook pulls him right back, pressing his lips more firmly on Taehyung’s, tasting the older one’s lips like he has wanted to for a long, long time. Taehyung kisses with the same passion. He opens his mouth and angles his head to let Jungkook in deeper, letting the younger taste and plunder and nibble and meld their lips together however way he wanted. Taehyung breaks the kiss as Jungkook chases after his lips. “Well, not like that, anyway.” Jungkook pinches Taehyung’s side as he brings their lips together again. And they laugh into the kiss.

Jungkook learns that Taehyung’s kisses taste like strawberries and his boxy smile makes for a perfect entrance for his tongue. Taehyung learns that he has a thing for the mole under Jungkook’s lower lip and that laughing kisses are the best.

Much, much later on, Taehyung and Jungkook argue with Jimin that an honest-to-goodness Strangers to Lovers trope does not exist, because it’s impossible for two people to go from being strangers to lovers without being purely friends for a certain period, no matter how brief. Taehyung and Jungkook learn as they walk the path together that being a true lover means first and foremost being a true friend, and when you’re with the one the stars had led you to, it’s never too soon to think about forever.

They become official boyfriends soon after Namjoon and Seokjin’s wedding. Camped out by the Han River, they watch the sunset together and in an impromptu gratitude ritual, they thank the universe for bringing them to each other. Jungkook thanks Taehyung for the warmth in his heart and the renewed purpose in his life. Taehyung thanks Jungkook for his kindness and for bringing back his smile. Jungkook wakes up Taehyung to meet the sunrise. By then, Jungkook has learned that Taehyung is less like the undead if he is woken up with kisses. Jungkook sings a song that he wrote for Taehyung, and he slips an eternity ring on his finger—“A promise to take care of you for eternity,” he says, “if you would let me.” To which, Taehyung replies, “Of course, Jungkookie. And with every sunrise, I promise to love you and desire only what’s best for you.”

A year later, they get the string of fate tattoos that Taehyung designed. They exchange wedding vows on Jeju at sunrise in the presence of only their closest friends, as the sunlight burst through the gap between two rocks on Hyeongje Island. The soft light of a red dawn falls on their faces that beamed with both promise and fulfillment.

Three years after they were reunited, even if Jungkook has released his own music as planned, he still has Taehyung’s name tattooed on his ass. Just because. And Taehyung gets inked with “JK’s” on his chest, right above his heart because it is, he is.  

They buy a property overlooking the Han River so Taehyung can go back to painting glorious sunsets in between helping out Jimin and Hobi who have taken over the wedding planning business. For their sunrise fix, they jog to the other side of the river and lay a picnic mat while Taehyung does quick sketches in colored pencils and Jungkook takes photos of the brightest star in his universe, and the sun, too.

It is tempting to say it’s a fairy tale ending, but it’s not.

Jungkook is still snarky and whiny when he wants Taehyung’s attention (which is still all the time) and Taehyung can still be clueless as fuck. So, they fight and make up and make love, they argue and compromise and hold hands, they sulk and talk and kiss nonstop. In between, there’s talking and laughing and teasing and hugging and cuddling and cooking and eating and eating each other out. They have laundry and dishes and taxes and bills and groceries and later on, dog diapers. There's a lot of driving each other around and driving each other crazy for all sorts of reasons. There's sex, lots of it! And it's pretty darn good even when they're mad at each other. And it just keeps getting better every year. And yes, in any crowded room, they still eye fuck. Sometimes, even after years of being together, they still hurt each other in ways that never cease to surprise them (“Babe, it’s Namjoon hyung, he’s like a brother!” or “But baby bun, I didn’t have my phone with me. I was on the ramp.”) But through the years, they also never run out of new ways to fall in love with each other.

“Do you think we’ll ever get tired of us?” Taehyung asks Jungkook one time as they lay together watching the sunset. They had just fitted their balcony with a rope swing bed and Taehyung had filled it with cushions and pillows and a thick blanket. On some nights, they fall asleep there. Taehyung lays supine on top of Jungkook, his head tucked on the crook of the younger’s shoulder, giving easy access to his neck which Taehyung peppers which butterfly kisses. Even though their bodies are molded together, Jungkook pulls Taehyung even closer as the sun dips into the horizon and the sky explodes in a myriad of colors before them.

Jungkook bends to kiss the top of Taehyung's head. “Silly,” he chides. “Have you ever seen two sunsets that are exactly alike?”

Taehyung tilts his head up to look at his husband, as though the answer to the question is in Jungkook’s eyes. And perhaps, in a way, it is. Jungkook gazes back at him with the same doe eyes when they first met but with more fondness and love than they’ve ever held before. And Taehyung beholds the fascinating mystery before him that the universe has gifted him with—this love, an ever-fixed mark even as it is made new every day, and Jungkook, his blue-haired angel, his best friend, lover and husband, his sun, ever-changing yet always the same, the best man ever.