Work Text:
Prince Taehyung has loved the crowned Prince Jungkook ever since he has known the meaning of love.
They have been sweethearts since childhood.
Anyone who sees them hanging out with each other, gets sure that they are going to end up together.
No one in either kingdom has ever doubted their union.
Taehyung loves everything about Jungkook.
The way Jungkook teases him and the way Jungkook kisses him afterwards to make up with him.
The way Jungkook holds Taehyung’s hand and the way Jungkook doesn’t let go of it.
The way Jungkook smiles at him with all the fondness and the way Jungkook takes away his frowns with his charming voice.
Taehyung loves it all.
Taehyung cannot wait to get married to Jungkook and stay in Jungkook’s kingdom.
But there is a small glitch to it.
No it's not the usual feud between the kingdom or Jungkook has any obligations to marry someone else.
Their parents are more than happy with this relationship and are eagerly waiting to unite these two kingdoms through the bond of Taehyung and Jungkook’s marriage.
The problem is Taehyung hasn’t been presented yet.
It's been years since Jungkook has been presented as an Alpha but there is no sign of an Omega in Taehyung yet.
Taehyung is worried that what if he doesn't present at all.
What if he is not a late bloomer like many in their kingdom think him to be.
What if he just turns out to be a Beta.
Taehyung’s body shivers in fear at the thought of it.
Prince Taehyung doesn’t have anything against the Betas neither does the crowned Prince Jungkook nor does anyone in their kingdoms.
But a Beta cannot marry the crowned Prince. The crowned Prince owes the kingdom an heir and a Beta unfortunately can never carry the child.
A Beta can be a friend, even a companion but they can never be someone’s life partner.
A Beta can get a job of a guard to a high ranking official in the court but a Beta unfortunately can never marry someone.
This is nature's game play. This is what the Beta's are made of.
Some Beta's considered it as a punishment and some a gift from the moon goddess.
Being a Beta is a bane for some and for some it's a boon.
It totally depends on the perception and what a Beta wants from his or her life.
For Taehyung all he wants is to be with Jungkook and make him happy.
That's how much Taehyung loves Jungkook.
Some may say that Taehyung is too weak to keep Jungkook above himself.
Some may say that Taehyung is a fool to love Jungkook more than his own self.
Some may say that Taehyung is ignorant, wanting to change his destiny for Jungkook.
But they are not living Taehyung’s life.
They are not living in Taehyung’s skin.
And they surely are not living as Taehyung’s mind, heart and soul.
So they don't have any right to dictate how Taehyung should feel and what Taehyung should do.
Taehyung has been patiently waiting for his turn to be presented as an Omega.
But with growing age, the doubts of turning out to be Beta keeps increasing in Taehyung’s mind.
Taehyung is worried about his future with Jungkook.
Taehyung is scared of his relationship with Jungkook.
Taehyung is helpless against his fate with Jungkook.
These days all Taehyung is thinking about is when will he present as an Omega.
There is nothing else that Taehyung wants at this time.
Taehyung is anxious, he is nervous, he is restless.
The more time passes, the more Taehyung’s worries grow like wild weeds in the field.
The thought of becoming a Beta is creeping in Taehyung’s mind so fast that he is not able to focus on anything.
Taehyung is not taking care of his health. Most of the time Taehyung is so preoccupied by his own thoughts that he doesn't even notice Jungkook’s presence around him.
Taehyung is sitting in front of the mirror absentmindedly brushing his hair with a comb.
Taehyung startles when a soft pair of lips pecks a kiss on his right cheek.
"Jungkook, you need to stop sneaking into my bedroom like this." Taehyung smiles into a sigh of relief upon seeing Jungkook’s face.
"And you need to stop losing yourself to those stupid thoughts of yours." Jungkook smiles, however concern is written all over his face.
Jungkook loves Taehyung more than his life.
Jungkook wants to spend the rest of his life with no one else but Taehyung.
Jungkook is eager to start his married life with Taehyung.
But that doesn’t mean that Jungkook will want Taehyung to wallow in his own worries.
As a crowned Prince, Alpha Jungkook has a responsibility towards the kingdom and so will Taehyung as Jungkook’s one true mate.
But that doesn’t mean that Jungkook is happy to see Taehyung go through this endless wait.
"I am scared, Jungkook, what if.. what if I never present?" Taehyung's eyes are now glistening with tears.
Jungkook cups Taehyung’s face and whispers in his sweet honey voice, "you need to have faith, my love. I know you must be a late bloomer like some people say. I can feel it in my heart that the moon goddess can never be this cruel to us."
Jungkook doesn’t care if Taehyung doesn’t present at all.
Jungkook doesn’t care if Taehyung’s turns into an Alpha or a Beta.
Jungkook doesn’t care about anything at all.
All Jungkook cares about is Taehyung’s well being.
All Jungkook cares about is Taehyung’s love for him.
All Jungkook cares about is Taehyung’s happiness above everything else.
That's how much Jungkook loves Taehyung.
But Jungkook is not just a lover boy anymore.
Jungkook is also the crowned Prince.
As the Alpha Prince of the kingdom, Jungkook has a responsibility towards it.
Jungkook cannot keep his kingdom without an heir. This will make his kingdom prone to enemy attacks.
Jungkook doesn’t care about the materialistic things associated with the glory of the kingdom but Jungkook does care about his people.
For the sake of protecting his people Jungkook silently prays to the moon goddess to present Taehyung as an Omega.
Jungkook hates himself for putting such conditions on his love.
Taehyung is Jungkook’s in any form.
How will he take care of Taehyung’s happiness if he adds such clauses to it.
Jungkook knows that Taehyung’s happiness lies in Jungkook’s happiness and hence Jungkook feels more guilty about putting Taehyung through all these self doubts.
But Jungkook keeps reminding himself that is not just any Alpha, but he is the Alpha crowned Prince of the kingdom.
This is the burden every royal is born with.
They cannot ignore their people for the sake of their own desires.
They are trained to sacrifice everything that matters to them for the greater good.
Tonight Jungkook and Taehyung sit on the balcony, holding onto each other.
Tonight Taehyung and Jungkook send silent prayers to the moon goddess to protect their fate.
Tonight Taehyung and Jungkook beg the moon goddess to shield their future.
Tonight Jungkook and Taehyung plead with the moon goddess to preserve their love forever.
They both have their own reasons for this desperate appeal.
Taehyung for the sake of his love and Jungkook for the sake of his kingdom.
Jungkook has no idea what he will do if he cannot have Taehyung by his side. He could go mad without Taehyung.
That's how much Jungkook loves Taehyung.
Taehyung leans his head on Jungkook’s shoulder and sniffles silently while looking at the moon with glassy eyes.
"I can't get rid of the what ifs from my mind. It's becoming too much." Taehyung sits back to look at Jungkook.
"Then till the time you present, you think of something else," Jungkook looks at Taehyung affectionately.
"Like what?" Taehyung pouts, still shedding tears from his eyes.
"Like think about the moments when I lace my fingers with yours," Jungkook intertwines his fingers with Taehyung’s.
Taehyung squeezes Jungkook’s hands softly.
Jungkook’s inner Alpha feels a bit better upon seeing the faint smile on Taehyung’s face.
"Think about the moments when I trace my thumb over the curves of your lips," Jungkook’s thumb hovers right over Taehyung’s lower lips
Taehyung blushes under Jungkook’s touch.
Jungkook’s inner Alpha is getting satisfied upon seeing his effects on Taehyung.
"Think about all those moments and many more," Jungkook whispers in his husky voice.
Jungkook slowly leans in and smooches Taehyung's soft lush lips.
A slow moan escapes Taehyung’s quivering lips but in no time Taehyung starts kissing Jungkook back.
Jungkook’s inner Alpha groans in excitement.
For Jungkook, Taehyung needs not to be an Alpha, Omega or Beta.
For Jungkook, Taehyung will always be Taehyung.
His Taehyung.
"Mine" Jungkook’s Alpha whispers in his head.
The kiss is haste and sloppy, as if they both want to escape.
Taehyung from his insecurities and Jungkook from his responsibilities.
They don't know what the future holds for them but they know that as long as they have each other, they will be fine.
They now have settled into a slow rhythm of kissing.
Their tongues are dancing gracefully in each other's mouths.
Jungkook tugs Taehyung closer by holding his waist and settles Taehyung on his lap.
Taehyung waves his fingers through Jungkook’s hair while kissing his lips with all the love he has for Jungkook.
At this moment that is the only thing Taehyung could offer to Jungkook, his love.
At this moment, love is the only thing Jungkook wants from Taehyung.
They keep kissing each sitting under the star studded sky.
They keep kissing each other sitting throughout the moon lit night.
They keep kissing each other sitting on the cushion of their undying hope, igniting passion and eternal love.
They kiss and kiss some more.
For now they are content with this. Jungkook wants to wait until their wedding night to go beyond kissing.
Jungkook is traditional like that, he wants to make Taehyung feel special on their first wedding night.
Jungkook doesn’t know that for Taehyung every single touch of Jungkook is equally special, it doesn’t matter if it's the first time or not.
That's how much Taehyung loves Jungkook.
Jungkook is content at this moment, the ray of hope fueling his confidence that Taehyung is his no matter what.
That's how Jungkook loves Taehyung.
At this moment Taehyung’s mind is clogged with Jungkook’s love and his heart is overwhelmed with Jungkook’s presence.
Jungkook has successfully managed to make him forget everything else and divert all his focus towards this irresistible Alpha.
Taehyung belongs to Jungkook and Jungkook’s heart is forever with Taehyung.
This is the only truth Taehyung is going to remember no matter what the future holds for them.
A single tear drops from Taehyung’s eye.
It's not a tear of sorrow but a tear of joy.
It's not a tear of fear but a tear of hope.
It's not a tear of misery but a tear of ecstasy.
Jungkook is Taehyung’s anchor, his hope and forever love.
With this thought they both rest their heads on each other's shoulders in a tight hug.
Their breathing is calmer now, hearts beating in sync, they both slumber into sleep lying in the balcony.
Next morning Taehyung wakes up on his bed, with Jungkook long gone from his room.
"Jungkook might have carried me to the bed before sneaking out at dawn," Taehyung touches his lips blushing at the thought of kissing Jungkook the whole night.
Only Jungkook can have this kind of effect on Taehyung.
Jungkook can make Taehyung’s heart beat really fast at the same time he can make it beat slower, maybe skip a beat or two just for him.
Jungkook can hitch Taehyung’s breathing to notch a level up at the same time he can make it go calmer, maybe a bit erratic in between just for him.
Jungkook can make Taehyung’s body hot with a single touch at the same time he can cool down the tense muscles, maybe getting a shiver of chills just for him.
Taehyung lays lazily on his bed basking in the warmth of the morning sunlight.
Taehyung is perfectly happy reliving the events of last night in his mind.
The sequence of events is rewinding in Taehyung’s head like a video.
The series of events playing in a loop in Taehyung’s brain.
Taehyung is elated, oblivious to the fact that a great disaster is waiting for him.
Taehyung has no idea that the demons of his destiny are already freed from the cage.
Taehyung is ignorant that his worst fears are going to be true.
Taehyung is now hurriedly getting ready by his hand maids, as the royal shaman of Jungkook’s kingdom has asked for Taehyung’s presence.
Taehyung’s parents and Jungkook parents will also be there.
The Shaman has the expertise in evaluating the conditions of late bloomers like Taehyung and make a decision if there is still any chance to present or ..
Taehyung doesn’t want to think about the second option to the answer.
If the Shaman declares that there is no chance left for Taehyung to present, then that means only one thing.
Taehyung will be declared a Beta after that.
Prince Taehyung will be a Beta.
Prince Taehyung who was supposed to marry Alpha crowned Prince Jungkook is a Beta now.
That means Taehyung can longer marry Jungkook.
That means Jungkook has to marry someone else for an heir.
NO..
Taehyung screams out of fear while getting ready by his handmaids.
But Taehyung cannot stall his fate any longer.
Taehyung takes one last look of himself in the mirror before leaving this room.
He is sure that he will not return as the same person anymore.
Either he will return as a betrothed Omega of Alpha crowned Prince Jungkook or he will return as Beta, who will be a nobody.
Taehyung doesn’t want to associate himself with anything else other than Jungkook’s better half.
He will be reduced to a nobody if he is not with Jungkook.
That's how much Taehyung loves Jungkook.
With trembling legs, Taehyung walks towards the royal temple to meet the Shaman from Jungkook’s kingdom.
One look at Taehyung and the Shaman declares his verdict.
The monsters in Taehyung’s worst nightmares are alive now.
The Shaman has announced that Taehyung won't ever present.
TAEHYUNG IS A BETA.
The words are now screaming inside Taehyung’s head.
Taehyung wants to run away from the piercing eyes of Jungkook’s parents.
Taehyung wants to hide himself from the disappointing gaze of his own parents.
Taehyung wants to disappear from his own agony and pain.
But Taehyung is still glued there as if expecting the Shaman to give some kind of alternative solution.
Taehyung is thinking it might happen that Shaman admits his error and declares Taehyung to be an Omega.
Taehyung is hoping that even after everything, even after being a Beta he might get accepted in Jungkook’s world.
But Jungkook is not here to take Taehyung’s side.
Jungkook is not present to hold Taehyung and support him.
Jungkook is not available here to elope with Taehyung.
The Shaman has restricted Jungkook’s presence as it is a bad omen for Jungkook to be around Taehyung before the wedding.
It's just an old fashioned superstition.
But Jungkook and Taehyung have sneaked around each other so many times that they don't remember the count of the instances.
What if Taehyung has become a Beta because he didn't respect the tradition?
What if Taehyung is facing the consequences of breaking those orthodox beliefs?
What if Taehyung has brought misfortune and bad luck upon himself?
But both Jungkook and Taehyung are mature enough to not to follow such myths.
Regardless, Taehyung is a Beta now.
Taehyung is sitting in his room wrapping his head around his new identity.
Taehyung is not fully surprised though. Deep in his heart he has always known the truth.
Hence the jittery feelings, the nervousness around it, the anxiety.
But it certainly came as a shocker to both the royal families.
Taehyung doesn’t remember how he got back to his chambers from the royal temple but he certainly remembers the look on everyone's faces.
It was a mix of all kinds of emotions ranging from pity to disappointment, sympathy to regret, empathy to rage.
Taehyung remembers Jungkook’s parents giving a sad smile to him and his family.
They left with their Shaman without uttering a single word.
By this time, the news must have reached Jungkook as well.
Taehyung has no idea how Jungkook must be reacting to this change.
Taehyung has no idea how Jungkook must be taking all this.
Taehyung has no idea how Jungkook must be holding himself up from all this news.
Taehyung has no option but to wait for Jungkook to sneak into his room at night.
Taehyung has no option but to wait until he meets Jungkook to understand what's going on in the Alpha’s mind.
Taehyung has no option but to wait to know what turn his life is going to take.
Taehyung knows that Jungkook loves him more than anything in this world.
Taehyung should be ready to elope with Jungkook if the situation arises.
Taehyung’s heart crumbles due to this hopeless hope.
Because Jungkook, the normal guy, loves Taehyung to the moon and back.
But Jungkook, the Alpha crowned Prince, Taehyung is not so sure about him.
Taehyung knows that Jungkook is bound to his duty.
Taehyung should be fine if Jungkook rejects him.
Taehyung’s heart clenches so hard at the thought of it that Taehyung fears it might get torn into actual pieces.
Jungkook is the only aid for Taehyung's haywire thoughts.
Jungkook is the only anchor to the rising storm in Taehyung’s heart.
Jungkook is the only answer to all the unresolved questions in Taehyung’s mind.
Taehyung needs to wait for Jungkook to sneak into his room. Taehyung has to wait patiently, he has no other option.
But time is too slow for those who wait.
Waiting is too long for those who fear.
It is past midnight now but there is no sign of Jungkook.
Taehyung has faith in Jungkook.
He knows that Jungkook will show up.
At this moment Taehyung won't even believe the moon goddess herself if she says that Jungkook won't come.
That's how much Taehyung trusts Jungkook.
That's how much Taehyung loves Jungkook.
Taehyung is not growing impatient at all.
He knows Jungkook will meet Taehyung for at least one last time.
He knows Jungkook will not keep Taehyung in darkness.
He knows Jungkook, if needed, will do the break up face to face.
Jungkook is not that kind of Alpha who steps back from owning his actions.
But again Jungkook is not that kind of Alpha who turns away from the love of his life.
Yet again Jungkook is not that kind of Alpha crowned Prince who will put his own selfish needs above his kingdom, above his people.
Jungkook is surely not that kind of leader.
"If I am confused this much, I can imagine what Jungkook must be feeling about me." Taehyung mumbles out loud.
"I love you, that's the only thing I'll ever feel for you." Jungkook says while standing on Taehyung's balcony.
"You came.." the words escape Taehyung’s lips in a whisper.
Taehyung has known in his heart that Jungkook would come but yet he looks surprised upon seeing Jungkook in his room.
Maybe deep down in his heart Taehyung has been giving up the hope of seeing Jungkook again.
Maybe to Taehyung, Jungkook’s appearance has validated that unconditional love all over again.
"You doubted that I wouldn't come?" Jungkook shrugs.
Taehyung closes the gap between them in a few quick sprints and wraps his arms around Jungkook’s waist.
"I love you," is all Taehyung could say while burying his face on the crook of Jungkook’s neck.
"I love you too," is all Jungkook could say while pulling Taehyung closer to his chest.
Jungkook’s loving scent has made Taehyung crave him more.
Jungkook’s soothing touch has made Taehyung want him more.
Jungkook’s calming voice has made Taehyung miss him more.
Taehyung is with Jungkook but is already missing him for the lost times in the future.
Taehyung is with Jungkook but is already feeling his absence in the coming days.
Taehyung is with Jungkook but is already devastated for staying apart in the time ahead.
"What are we going to do, my Prince?" Taehyung bursts into tears.
Taehyung’s body is shaking in Jungkook’s arms.
Jungkook hates to see Taehyung like this.
Jungkook hates being this helpless.
Jungkook hates to be the victim of society's stupid norms.
"Ssshh.. we will figure something out." Jungkook tries to console Taehyung.
One of them needs to be brave at this moment and Jungkook chooses himself to be the one.
As Taehyung, right now is consolable.
"What will you figure out?" Taehyung raises his head from Jungkook’s shoulders and looks at Jungkook with eyes full of tears.
Jungkook stares at Taehyung’s blotchy face with remorseful glares.
Jungkook has no idea on how to answer Taehyung’s question.
Jungkook has no clue on what to figure out to console a sobbing Taehyung.
Jungkook has no plan on when to make everything alright for him and Taehyung.
"It’s final that I am a Beta now and there is nothing you could do about it." Taehyung hiccups in between his cries.
Jungkook keeps wiping Taehyung’s tears with the back of his fingers.
Taehyung is right, at this moment there is nothing more Jungkook can do other than just being with Taehyung.
So Jungkook is doing exactly what he knows to do best.
Jungkook at this moment is silently supporting Taehyung by merely standing with him and wiping his tears.
"I can understand you will become the Alpha king soon. People will expect you to give them an heir." Taehyung speaks as if he knows what's running in Jungkook’s mind in parallel.
But Jungkook will think about it later.
He will think as a people's slave later.
Right now he is only the master of his own heart.
Jungkook will think as an Alpha crowned Prince later.
Right now he just wants to be Taehyung’s Alpha.
Jungkook just wants to be Taehyung’s lover at this moment.
So Jungkook ignores Taehyung’s comments about his duty, his people and his kingdom.
At this moment Jungkook is only focusing on wiping Taehyung’s tears and calming him down.
But Taehyung is far from calming down.
All those suppressed insecurities, buried self doubts, locked up fears are now surfacing up in Taehyung’s mind.
"Your kingdom needs an heir.. you need an heir," Taehyung breaks into tears again.
Taehyung continues after a small pause, "And I.. I can never bear your child ever. I can never become your true mate."
Taehyung covers his face with his palms, "I can never be the happiness you deserve."
"That’s not true.. you are the only person in this world who makes me happy. Nothing else matters." Jungkook says with a throbbing pain in his chest.
Jungkook has promised to himself that he will always keep Taehyung happy.
Jungkook has vowed to himself that he will never let the tears of sorrow come anywhere near Taehyung’s eyes.
Jungkook has taken the pledge to himself to never let a smile leave Taehyung’s lips.
But right now all these promises are breaking piece by piece in front of Jungkook’s eyes.
Taehyung is still crying like pouring rain and is in no state to listen to Jungkook’s reasoning.
"Taehyung, you are the only one that matters to me," Jungkook repeats himself a bit louder for Taehyung to listen properly.
Taehyung holds his gaze at Jungkook.
Taehyung is now looking at Jungkook with a blank expression.
Both Jungkook and Taehyung know that Jungkook is telling the half truth at this moment.
Yes, Taehyung is important to Jungkook but so are the people of his kingdom.
Jungkook could literally feel Taehyung’s pain in his heart.
Taehyung can see that hurt is written all over Jungkook’s face.
Taehyung feels a bit guilty about putting Jungkook all through this.
Taehyung knows that it's not Jungkook’s fault that Taehyung is a Beta.
It's not Taehyung’s fault either.
Actually Taehyung understands that being a Beta is not a fault at all.
Taehyung respects all ranks. In some other situation Taehyung would have happily accepted himself for being a Beta.
But to his misfortune, being a Beta is the only thing that is keeping him away from Jungkook.
Taehyung loves himself as Beta but he loves Jungkook more than himself and wants to be at Jungkook’s side at any cost.
But this situation is not getting resolved in just one night.
Taehyung still accepted himself as a Beta but he doesn’t know how to accept his fate with Jungkook.
Taehyung’s shoulders resigns upon seeing the frown lines on Jungkook’s forehead.
Taehyung can feel that Jungkook is going through an equal share of pain because of this situation.
The dawn is about to break and Taehyung cannot hold Jungkook in his room forever.
In a dreamworld Taehyung would like to keep Jungkook all to himself but not in the real world.
Jungkook has a kingdom to look after.
So with a heavy heart Taehyung lets Jungkook go. But only for the day.
Jungkook promises to return back at night like always.
Like always Taehyung bids farewell to Jungkook with a smile but this time there is a hint of sadness in Taehyung’s smile.
Like always Jungkook assures Taehyung to sneak in tomorrow's night but this time the promise feels heavy on Jungkook’s lips.
Like always they kiss each other goodbyes but this time the kiss seems to be their final kiss as if there is no tomorrow for them to kiss again.
To Taehyung’s devastation that tomorrow never comes.
Taehyung waits for Jungkook the next night, and the night after that but Jungkook doesn't show up.
Taehyung has been afraid of this all along.
Taehyung has been worried that one day Jungkook will be tired of finding out a possible solution of marrying a Beta and still giving an heir to his kingdom.
Taehyung has accepted that one day Jungkook will choose his kingdom over him.
But that doesn’t mean it's not hurting Taehyung.
Every night without Jungkook is like a piercing dagger being stabbed straight into Taehyung’s heart.
Taehyung is experiencing a new feeling now.
The feeling of loss.
Taehyung has always been scared of this day but you don't actually feel the grief of your loss until you face the actual loss.
Something similar is happening to Taehyung.
Taehyung is now actually feeling the loss of Jungkook's presence.
Taehyung still has not given up on Jungkook’s love.
Every night Taehyung patiently waits at his balcony for Jungkook to come.
Every morning Taehyung goes back to his bed to sleep with Jungkook around him.
Jungkook is never there to kiss Taehyung under the moonlight.
Jungkook is never there to caress Taehyung’s face under the sun rays.
Each night brings a streak of new hope to Taehyung and each morning leaves him in nothing but dejection.
Taehyung is not only losing his hope that Jungkook would ever show his face, but Taehyung is also losing himself.
Taehyung has found a new identity yet he feels he is trapped in the web of his old self.
Taehyung is battling two wars now.
One on his love and faith for Jungkook and the other on his love and faith for his own self.
Taehyung knows deep down in his heart that even after being declared as a Beta, he is still the same Taehyung.
But Taehyung also knows that the gazes around him have definitely changed. He is not the same Taehyung for many people around him.
Is Jungkook one of those people now?
Is that why Jungkook doesn’t come to meet him anymore?
Is Jungkook still in love with Taehyung?
"No… no.. no.." Taehyung screams out of his own misery.
Taehyung is going insane, thinking about these stupid questions.
"I know Jungkook loves me. How could I doubt his love for me," Taehyung cries out loud in the loneliness of his chambers.
Taehyung’s rational mind knows that there is no way Jungkook’s love will ever change for him.
Taehyung’s heart strongly feels that Jungkook wouldn't care much if Taehyung is an Alpha, Beta or Omega.
Taehyung’s soul is connected with Jungkook’s and that is the only thing that matters.
That is how much Taehyung and Jungkook love each other.
Taehyung is aware of Jungkook’s responsibilities.
Taehyung is aware that Jungkook is bound to his duties towards his kingdom.
Taehyung is aware of Jungkook’s burden.
Taehyung is aware that Jungkook owes himself towards the security of his people.
So there is no way Taehyung can blame Jungkook for anything that is happening around him.
So now Taehyung has only one other battle left, i.e. accepting his own fate.
Taehyung is accepting his fate slowly with each passing night without Jungkook.
Taehyung is accepting his destiny somehow with each rising dawn without Jungkook.
The only reason Taehyung has been scared of being a Beta is Jungkook.
And now when Taehyung is slowly let go of Jungkook, he is in parallel making peace with his own self.
2 weeks have passed.
Taehyung hasn’t seen or heard of Jungkook.
Taehyung, who has never been apart from Jungkook since the day they had declared their love to each other, is now getting used to Jungkook’s absence bit by bit.
"Jungkook is sacrificing his love for the greater good. I am proud of him." Taehyung keeps consoling his heart.
Taehyung has always been a great supportive partner.
So what if Taehyung cannot marry Jungkook, Taehyung will still support Jungkook by not blaming Jungkook for his broken heart.
Taehyung will still support Jungkook by loving him unconditionally even if it is from a distance.
Taehyung will still spend his days and nights praying for Jungkook's well being and Prosperity.
Taehyung cannot be Jungkook’s Omega.
Taehyung cannot be Jungkook’s husband.
Taehyung cannot be Jungkook’s mate.
But Taehyung already belongs to Jungkook in true sense, Taehyung already is Jungkook’s by all means and Taehyung will forever be Jungkook’s no matter what.
One doesn’t need to be physically around to show and feel true love.
Their love is shared by the same sun and moon even if they are not together to cherish it from the same place.
Their love is in the air between both of them even if they are a kingdom apart.
Their love is tattooed within their souls even if they are longer in each other's embrace.
Taehyung doesn’t hate Jungkook.
But Jungkook hates himself.
It's been 2 weeks since he has not seen Taehyung’s face.
It's been 2 weeks since he has not heard Taehyung’s voice.
It's been 2 weeks since he has not held Taehyung’s hands.
It's been 2 weeks since he has not kissed Taehyung’s lips.
Jungkook hates himself for leaving Taehyung all alone like this.
Jungkook hates himself for abandoning love like this.
Jungkook hates himself for taking so long to find a solution for this.
A part of Jungkook is strong enough to put his duties above his desires but a part of him is devastated too.
Jungkook is supposed to take care of Taehyung.
Jungkook is supposed to support Taehyung through thick and thin.
Jungkook is supposed to be with Taehyung till death do them part.
But Jungkook is not able to do any of it.
Taehyung has already been under a lot of pressure after his declaration as a Beta and now Jungkook is also not around him.
Jungkook’s heart throbs upon thinking how confused and lonely Taehyung must be feeling right now.
Jungkook’s heart shatters upon knowing there is nothing he could do to mend Taehyung’s broken dreams.
Jungkook’s heart cracks into millions tiny pieces upon being this helpless for Taehyung.
Jungkook is the Alpha crowned Prince yet he cannot get himself the only person he wants to be with the most.
Jungkook is ashamed of himself for not choosing Taehyung.
Jungkook curses being born with so many burdens.
Jungkook simply loathes himself.
Because of him, Taehyung can never move on.
Because of him, Taehyung would never love someone else.
Because of him, Taehyung would die alone.
Jungkook eventually needs to marry an Omega for an heir.
After all, this heir is the whole reason why Jungkook cannot marry Taehyung, a Beta.
But what will happen to Taehyung?
Jungkook is going insane upon worrying about Taehyung.
Taehyung is very strong, that Jungkook is sure of.
But Jungkook is also certain that Taehyung’s world has always revolved around Jungkook only.
Even if Jungkook doesn’t choose Taehyung, Taehyung will keep loving Jungkook.
Even if Jungkook chooses his kingdom, Jungkook’s heart will keep beating for Taehyung.
That's how much Taehyung and Jungkook love each other.
Jungkook cries silently standing at his balcony.
Yes, the mighty Alpha crowned Prince Jungkook is crying his heart out for the love of his life.
Jungkook has trained to solve people's problems and help them but he has failed miserably to do any kind of help for his own love.
Taehyung has always looked up to Jungkook and now Jungkook has disappointed him.
Jungkook now is just a crowned Prince.
The Alpha in him has died the day he has stopped seeing Taehyung.
Jungkook looks at the moon, imagining Taehyung’s soft face on it.
Jungkook’s vision gets blurry.
"The sooner I take a decision on this, the better it will be for Taehyung," Jungkook promises to himself while glancing at the moon from his balcony.
Taehyung is finally making some progress at his end.
Taehyung is finally making peace with his destiny.
Taehyung is finally accepting himself as a Beta.
But sometimes the moment you wish to stand up on your feet for the first time, is the moment fate decides to shake the ground beneath them.
Taehyung is about to figure out the next steps in his life when he hears about the wedding news from Jungkook’s kingdom.
"So it's true then.. Jungkook is marrying someone else," Taehyung mumbles trying to control the tears in his eyes.
Taehyung has been good these days. He has not cried at all.
But the news of Jungkook’s wedding is opening all the sealed wounds again.
As if someone is stabbing over and over again at the same place in Taehyung’s heart.
"I know you have to marry someone else but it still hurts me to imagine you with someone who is not me. Oh god, it hurts so bad in here." Taehyung places his hand over his heart.
Taehyung has been bracing himself for this news but he didn't expect it will be this soon.
"You could have at least told me in person." Taehyung looks at the moon through the window, pretending he is talking to Jungkook through the moon.
This is what Taehyung has been doing all these nights.
Taehyung misses Jungkook too much and Jungkook hasn't even visited once in the past few weeks.
So Taehyung has made it a habit of talking to the moon thinking it's Jungkook.
This fake conversation has given Taehyung a solace.
Talking to the moon each night has somehow been healing for Taehyung.
But the news of Jungkook’s wedding has caused new cuts over those freshly healed wounds.
Now how will Taehyung talk to the moon, knowing Jungkook is forever going to be someone’s else.
"You said you could never see tears in my eyes. Then why are you hurting me like this," Taehyung turns away his face, trying not to look at the moon.
"Why are you getting married so soon?"
As if it will matter to Taehyung, if Jungkook marries sooner or later.
"Why didn’t you give me time to move on?"
As if Taehyung will ever be able to move on from Jungkook.
"Why did you announce it like I mean nothing to you?"
"Why didn’t you tell me in person?"
"Why didn’t you talk to me at least once?"
As if it will hurt less to Taehyung if Jungkook tells in any different way.
"Why didn’t you let me say goodbye one last time?"
"Why didn’t you let me kiss you one last time?"
"Why didn’t you let me love you one last time?"
Taehyung should know that it will not create any difference for him or Jungkook.
That's how much Taehyung and Jungkook love each other.
Taehyung hides his face in his palms and he just weeps endlessly.
Taehyung has thought that his tears have dried up. He thought that he had no tears left to shed anymore. But it seems like Taehyung has been wrong.
Taehyung has thought that he is ready to let go of Jungkook. He thought that he will be fine when Jungkook marries someone else. But it seems like Taehyung has been wrong.
Taehyung has thought that he can now move on. He thought he could continue his life by loving Jungkook at a distance. But it seems like Taehyung has been wrong.
Taehyung is hurting really bad right now.
Taehyung understands that Jungkook needs to marry someone, but Taehyung needs more time to accept the fact.
Taehyung knows eventually he will come to terms with Jungkook’s marriage.
Taehyung will learn to free Jungkook away gradually.
But everything now is happening too fast for Taehyung.
And it's too much for Taehyung to get a hold on his emotions.
"I know you won't come here anymore just to say your farewell. Even if I cry a thousand tears, I know you won't come to me." And Taehyung cries.
Taehyung cries maybe not a thousand tears but he cries the whole night until he tires himself to sleep.
Next morning Taehyung goes back to his dormant state again.
After a lot of efforts Taehyung had finally managed to get out of his room.
Taehyung was taking strolls in the garden.
Taehyung also had been thinking about his future.
Taehyung is the second born Prince.
So other than marrying off for merging the kingdom or serving his life to protect his elder brother slash future king, second born Princes don't have much options anyways.
Now that marrying Jungkook was out of the question, Taehyung was supposed to take the role of his brother’s protector.
But then there is a small problem with that option. Taehyung has never been good with sword fighting or hand to hand combat.
Sure, being a Prince he has been trained just like his elder brother. But everyone knew Taehyung was going to marry Jungkook, so no one including Taehyung himself had put much effort into training.
Now Taehyung understands the importance of being self dependent and keeping oneself ready for any situation.
Still it's not a completely hopeless situation for Taehyung anyways. He has started his training in the past few days. Taehyung is a quick learner and he has nowhere else to divert his focus. So in a few days Prince Taehyung has learned things that people usually take years to learn. His royal blood and warrior genetics are kicking in.
This morning also Taehyung is supposed to join his trainer in the training room.
But he is now too tired from crying out last night.
After waking up, for a second Taehyung thinks that Jungkook’s wedding news might just be his nightmare.
But then the pain of his fragile heart seems too real for it to be just an illusion.
Then Taehyung hears a few of his guards whispering about Jungkook’s wedding right outside Taehyung’s room.
Taehyung groans in frustration and hides himself under the sheets.
He is going to stay in his room the whole day, maybe a few more days.
Taehyung is not worried about what other people are saying about him or Jungkook.
He is not the kind of a person who drives his life based on gossip or cares what everyone else is talking about him.
Taehyung is not bothered when people judge him.
For him only Jungkook matters and well Jungkook is not here to pass any comments on his behavior.
Jungkook probably might be busy in his wedding preparations.
Shadow of jealousy creeps over Taehyung’s face, but instantly Taehyung asks the moon goddess for his forgiveness and prays for Jungkook’s happy life.
Taehyung knows that even when Jungkook is marrying someone else, Jungkook will still be praying for Taehyung to smile.
Taehyung is sure that Jungkook must be thinking about Taehyung’s well being at this moment. There is no second thought around that.
That's how much Taehyung and Jungkook love each other.
But Taehyung still needs some time to sink in with the news.
So Taehyung decides to skip his combat training and stay in his chambers laying on the comfort of his bed.
Not like one day of miss is going to end the world.
Not like one day of miss is going to cost his life.
Not like one day of miss and their kingdom gets a sudden attack.
But Taehyung doesn't know why the moment he thinks nothing more worse can happen, he gets hit by the next disaster.
The moment Taehyung thinks he needs a pause to regain his control, his life turns upside down with the chaos.
Taehyung gets the news that the border of their kingdom is now under attack by the rogues.
Taehyung’s kingdom has one of the strongest armies, but the rogues are barbaric.
Taehyung’s father, king and his older brother both are proven to be brave in numerous battles but they also are barely holding against the rogues.
Taehyung cannot just sit duck here in his room and do nothing to protect his family and kingdom.
Taehyung is a Beta but he is also a Prince.
Taehyung might not be that strong like his father or brother but the same royal blood flows through his veins as well.
Taehyung can be anything but he is not a coward.
Taehyung won't stand back from his royal duties just because he is tending his broken heart.
Taehyung puts on his armor and reaches the border to fight alongside his father and brother.
The entire royal family is proud of Taehyung’s courage. Taehyung has been immensely loved in his family, so no one has ever told him to fight a fly.
But look at Taehyung now, bravely battling with the rogues.
Taehyung has done good in keeping the rogues away from his father and brother for a few good hours.
But Taehyung has not been properly training to last this long in the battle field.
Taehyung’s body is giving up and Taehyung is losing his focus.
Taehyung is getting more and more prone to the attacks from the rogue. He is trying his best to use all tricks of fighting, attacking, defending and even dodging.
But every once and then he keeps getting hit with the sword jabs.
Thankfully Taehyung is wearing the metal armors so the swords from the rogues are barely scraping his skin into minor cuts.
But suddenly Taehyung loses his balance and he falls on the ground.
A sword from a rogue is going to blow right over his stomach when another sword protectively blocks the rogue and saves Taehyung’s life.
"Jungkook" Taehyung is simply surprised to see Jungkook in the battlefield fighting to protect Taehyung’s kingdom.
But this is not the time nor the place to discuss the whys and hows between two lovers.
It's time for them to fight as true warriors to protect their people.
Jungkook helps Taehyung to stand up.
"You okay?" Concern is written all over Jungkook’s face.
Taehyung simply nods, still a bit shocked with Jungkook’s sudden entry.
Taehyung must admit it was a bit dramatic too. Just like out of the movies or books. Jungkook looks heroic while fighting his way through the rogues.
Taehyung drags himself out of his daydreams. He can drool for Jungkook after they have won this fight.
Taehyung picks up the sword and starts tackling the rogues again.
Jungkook is staying closer to Taehyung just to ensure that Taehyung stays safe.
Jungkook is not fighting Taehyung’s fight, he is letting Taehyung lead his own attack. He is just backing up Taehyung in case needed.
And whenever Taehyung defeats any of his opponents, Jungkook beams at Taehyung with pride.
Taehyung can't shake away the giddy feeling inside his tummy.
Taehyung’s heart skips a beat when he is standing so close to Jungkook.
But then a scream of horror escapes Taehyung’s lips.
Everything happens so fast that neither Taehyung nor Jungkook gets time to think.
Taehyung sees a rogue coming towards Jungkook from behind him.
The rogue is going to stab at Jungkook’s back but Taehyung pushes Jungkook to the side.
The sword pierce right through Taehyung’s stomach and Taehyung falls on the ground clutching his wounds.
Jungkook pierces his sword through the rogue's body and the rogue dies in an instant.
Jungkook then rushes to Taehyung and knees at his body, "no..no..no…what have you done, you fool"
Taehyung whimpers in pain. He is trying to say something but is constantly gagging up.
Jungkook carefully places Taehyung’s head on his lap, tears keep flowing from Jungkook’s eyes, "you shouldn't have taken that stab for me."
Taehyung smiles, "we won this war because of you and your army. I would do anything to protect you. It's okay if you lose me, I have already lost you my love."
Jungkook keeps wiping sweat from Taehyung’s forehead, "I am not going to lose you."
"Don’t you think it's too late now," Taehyung winces, breathing heavily due to pain.
Jungkook is pressing the wound on Taehyung’s stomach to stop the blood flow, "the medic is on his way. We will take you to the hospital and you will be fine."
Taehyung could feel his heart rate dropping but he keeps looking at Jungkook.
He wants to see Jungkook’s face, hear Jungkook’s voice, feel Jungkook’s touch till his last breath.
"You are going to be alright," Jungkook keeps reminding it more to himself than to Taehyung.
"I can never be alright by staying apart from you. That's how much I love you."
"NOOOO.."
Jungkook’s screeching screams are the last thing Taehyung has heard before closing his eyes.
Everything goes dark.
Taehyung finds himself sitting in a void. Maybe this is where souls travel when their body dies. Maybe this is some kind of passage to the after life.
Taehyung sees a tunnel of light at the end of the pitch black space. Taehyung is standing at the opposite corner.
Taehyung feels like he is supposed to pass through this tunnel of white light.
But Taehyung is not able to move forward.
Something is still holding him.
A voice.
Then Taehyung realizes it's Jungkook’s voice that's tugging at him.
"No no no.. Taehyung you promised forever, you can’t leave me like this." Jungkook's voice is cracking through his series.
Taehyung feels a lump in his throat.
" As if we were going to have our forever,"
Taehyung is sad to hear Jungkook’s agony but now he has finally accepted the truth about his identity and fate.
"I had it all planned, why did you leave me so early. Why didn’t you wait." Jungkook’s cries linger.
"Wait to see you getting married to someone else and raise your family with them instead of starting a family with me."
"Wait to see you living the dreams with someone else, the same dreams you once shared with me."
"Wait to see you fulfilling your promises to someone else, the same promise that you once made to me."
Taehyung can’t help but to feel bitter at this moment.
Taehyung is dead, finally his soul can let out all the anger he has been holding up.
Taehyung is not angry at Jungkook in particular.
Taehyung is angry on his fate, his destiny, the moon goddess, the stupid rules.
"The plan was to get my younger brother married and announce his child as my heir." Jungkook’s weeping voice rings through Taehyung’s soul.
"So it was his brother’s wedding announcement, not his." Taehyung realizes his confusion and the power of gossip.
"That’s why I was not able to sneak into your room for all those weeks. I was busy doing all these settlements. I wanted to make things right for you and my kingdom." Jungkook whispers.
Taehyung could feel Jungkook’s hot breath through his soul.
Taehyung couldn’t believe that Jungkook had figured out a way to serve his kingdom and still be with Taehyung.
Taehyung’s heart is full of warmth.
If souls could cry out of joy, Taehyung would be shedding happy tears by now.
Jungkook leans his head over Taehyung’s unconscious body lying in the hospital.
Jungkook is holding Taehyung’s hands and his tears are falling on Taehyung’s closed eyelashes, "it was me who should be lying here instead of you. Why did you take the stab for me?"
"Because that's how much I love you," Taehyung slowly blinks his eyes open.
Jungkook stares at Taehyung with a blank expression.
Then without wasting any time Jungkook places his lips over Taehyung’s.
"I am hoping it's not a dream. Because if you are still dead, then I'll die too. I can't live a single day in this world without you being in it." Jungkook whispers over Taehyung’s lips.
Taehyung knows Jungkook is not lying.
Taehyung knows Jungkook won't be able to survive without him.
Because that's how much Jungkook loves Taehyung.
"It’s not a dream, your love brought me back to life." Taehyung replies before kissing Jungkook back.
And they keep kissing each like there is no tomorrow.
Taehyung is lying comfortably on the hospital bed and Jungkook is leaning on him carefully, trying not to puncture Taehyung’s wounds.
But neither of them break the kiss. They are not worried, they are not scared either. They are not in a rush, they are not slowing down either.
They just want to be in each other's embrace at this moment.
They just want to kiss away the lost moments.
They just want to kiss their way towards the future.
That's how much Taehyung and Jungkook love each other.
With time Taehyung’s body healed.
With Jungkook’s love Taehyung’s heart healed.
Taehyung is now all set to marry Jungkook in the next 2 months.
People from both these kingdoms can't be happier for their union.
Jungkook’s brother and his Omega wife are now proud parents of a beautiful baby boy.
They have happily agreed on making Jungkook and Taehyung the co-parent of their baby. All four of the are going to raise the little heir of Jungkook’s kingdom.
Taehyung is excited for all these new changes in his life.
But Taehyung needs to take care of one last thing before he steps into his utopian life with Jungkook.
Taehyung needs to make peace with his mind too.
Taehyung needs to accept his identity as a Beta from all sides.
Then only his soul will be fully content.
Taehyung is looking at the moon standing at his balcony thinking, "how I am going to support Jungkook as his Beta husband."
A voice and kiss on his cheek breaks the chain of thoughts in Taehyung’s mind.
"You are still you.. you know being a Beta doesn’t change anything about who you are. You are your own person and that too an amazing one." Jungkook places a series of kisses on Taehyung’s faces.
"When will you stop sneaking into my bedroom like this, we are going to get married soon." Taehyung giggles.
"Well old habits die hard." Jungkook nuzzles his nose in the crook of Taehyung’s neck to scent him.
Taehyung loves basking himself in Jungkook’s scent.
Betas usually don't have any scent but Jungkook swears that Taehyung reminds him of lavender since the day he has laid his eyes on Taehyung for the first time.
At that time neither of them were presented.
They were just Jungkook and Taehyung, but somehow both of them knew they were going to end up together.
That's how much Taehyung and Jungkook love each other.
"Finally I have accepted myself as a Beta. Now I want to do something worthwhile. I want to make a difference," Jungkook rests his head on Jungkook’s chest.
Jungkook brushes the back of Taehyung’s hair, "what do you have in mind?"
"I want to run an awareness and reform program in both our kingdoms. I want to change the mindset that people have for Alphas, Betas and Omegas. We don't have to go against our rules or traditions but we can tweak them to fit everyone's happiness. I want to help Alphas, Betas and Omegas who are confused and scared like I was once upon a time. I want them to know their options and help them in whatever way they need and whatever way I can" Taehyung is talking to Jungkook with sparkling eyes.
"I am proud of you." Jungkook smiles at Taehyung with adoration.
"Like you were able to figure out a solution of having an heir and marrying a Beta, I want to do the same for others." Taehyung is equally proud of Jungkook.
Jungkook was able to build that bridge between tradition and acceptance of change.
Jungkook was able to create a world where he as a King and he as a lover can live in harmony.
Jungkook was able to sail the rest of his life carrying his duty and including the love of his life at the same time.
Taehyung wants to do the same for the rest of the world.
Taehyung doesn’t want any other Taehyung crying for things he loves and losing them for some stereotypical beliefs.
Taehyung doesn’t want any other Jungkook to go through the pain of choosing responsibilities over love.
Taehyung doesn’t want any other Taehyung and Jungkook to get into the tug of war between duty and love.
"That’s the reason I love you so much. You think I am your strength but you are way more stronger than me. I can't even imagine what you went through or going through yet you are determined to give others a better future." Jungkook kisses Taehyung.
Jungkook is kissing Taehyung just like always but this time Taehyung is kissing Jungkook without worrying about his future.
Because Taehyung knows whatever comes in future, he will be brave enough to endure it without any fear.
Because Taehyung knows this time he will not try to be just a spouse, he will be strong enough to face even the wars.
Because Taehyung knows that no matter what happens next in their lives……
Jungkook will always find a way to be with Taehyung and Taehyung will always spend his life ahead with Jungkook.
Because that's how much Taehyung and Jungkook love each other.
AND THEY WILL CONTINUE TO LOVE EACH OTHER FOR ALWAYS & FOREVER IN THIS LIFE & EVERY LIFE BEYOND THAT