Archive of Our Own

He walked around placing color coded stickers on boxes, so the movers knew which boxes to take. Even though they were on separate sides of the room all stacked nicely. It was the last thing he needed to do, before he could well move on. He walked around the now boxed up apartment to make sure it was clear before he spotted something on the window sill. He knew what it was before he even got there, a photo of him and his boyfriend, well now ex-boyfriend.

They went on a trip to Jeju Island, he was so sure he was going to propose that trip, and ask him to be mated. They were not each other's soulmates but still loved each other deeply, and it was a perfect trip. He was so happy, but as he looked at the picture he took on the beach moments before he realized the smile did not reach his eyes. The sunsetting behind them and he was so hopelessly in love.

He remembers it all too clearly.

A content sigh running his hands through his hair smelling the salt air. They had just taken a selfie and it was stored away on his phone. He leaned onto his boyfriend smiling. “What a great night, its been such a nice trip.”

The voice beside him spoke up. “It has, Jimin, can you look at me.”

Jimin took a breath thinking this is it, sitting up with a warm smile looking at him. “What’s up?”

He took Jimins hands, holding them gently. “You are one of the most beautiful people I have ever laid my eyes on. Inside and out you really are so amazing. I count myself blessed to know you and have received your love.”

Jimin felt his heart thudding in his chest, something felt off with this. He continued. “I needed this with you, one last time.”

Jimin shakes his head, not understanding. “What, Hyungwon? What do you mean one last time?”

Jimin was shaking in his hold. “I am so sorry Jimin. I didn’t mean to, I was not even looking but I found my mate.”

Jimin felt like he was punched in the gut with everything leaving his body. He wanted to scream and curse and be angry. He just nodded his head and stood up walking up the beach.

Mates were a rare chance and even if it pained him he couldn’t be selfish enough to try and keep him or guilt him into staying, it would never work out. After that they decided how to move on with their lives. Hyungwon said he could keep the apartment but Jimin didn't want to be there so he was moving to a smaller studio apartment, and Hyungwon was moving in with his mate. Just like that Jimins entire world came crashing down on him. The only good news was he was able to get a place in the same building as a couple of his friends Hoseok and Taehyung. He knew there was no way they were going to let him go through this alone. Tae wanted to rip Hyungwon to shreds, but as much as it hurt him Jimin understood. A soulmate was stronger than anything, he supposed it was better they never made it more serious or it could have been deadly for both of them. He placed the picture in one of Hyungwon's open boxes before sealing it up. He walked to the door looking back at the apartment and exited it for the last time.

Jimin was barely keeping himself upright laughing as Hobi and Tae were playing a dancing video game. Hobi took it very seriously and Tae was purposely messing up. Hobi glared at him “If we weren't mates I would rip your throat out.”

That only made Jimin laugh more, a knock at the door sounded he giggled getting up to get it grabbing his wallet along the way. Opening the door he expected a delivery person with their food but no one was standing there, instead there was a bouquet of wildflowers. He looked up and down the hall seeing no one before picking it up. Seeing a little card he pulled it out reading it.

I hope this isn’t too forward, but I see you often and think you're beautiful. I would love to try and talk to you, maybe get a coffee. If you would be up to that take these in, if not leave them outside.

He flipped the card over hoping for more information only it was blank. How could he possibly accept when he didn’t know who it was, he brought the card to his nose sniffing it softly and an overwhelming sense of calm fell over him. He let out a small gasp, never had he smelled something like that, if the person leaving it smelled something off him then maybe they were destined to meet.

Like he smelled happiness off Tae, they had long ago tried dating but turned out only friendship was in the cards for them. Jimin was okay with it, when Tae met his mate Hobi, they hit it off right away too. He had realized he never really felt any of that with Hyungwon; he sighed at the thought, pondering for a moment before bringing the flowers in and shutting the door.

Tae bound over to him, “I thought it was the food but that's not food.”

Jimin shook his head as Hobi joined them. “Who are they from, that's a beautiful bouquet, and those flowers are what you smell like to me.”

Hobi was pointing to the little daisies and Jimin gave him a quizzical look. Hobi just smiled. “You smell like summer and sunshine, everything is happy.”

Jimin bit his lip and wondered if the sender had felt the same way to pick such flowers. Jimin blushed, walking away from them to get the flowers into some water. He hoped the sender would be happy to not see the flowers left outside his door. He arranged them and set them in the window sill. He was only on the second floor and that window was easy to see from the street. He hoped it showed the person he was caring for them, and accepted the bouquet. Was Jimin being courted, was this what it was. He had to wait for the sender to reveal themselves, as he smelled the card again, he wondered who could have such a safe calming smell.

The next morning Jimin was running around getting ready. He was going to be late and he had no time to make breakfast or lunch as he bolted out the door and ran face first into Tae who lived down the hallway. Tae caught him with a laugh. “Whoa Jimin, slow down.”

Jimin groaned. “Tae, love you, have a good day. I have to go. I am already late and have no breakfast or lunch today. It's going to suck.”

He quickly ran to the stairwell and down them, not seeing the person standing down the hall just behind Tae watching them with soft eyes.

Jimin groaned, running his hands over his face as he read the document for the umpteenth time. He needed to go out and get something to eat. He was starving, having barely made it to work on time. He was scrolling through the delivery app on his phone when his desk phone rang. He put his phone down with a sigh answering it. “This is Jimin.”

Jisoo greeted him on the other end. “Jimin, why did you not tell me about this hunk of man you are seeing, he just dropped off your lunch that you left at home.”

Jimin stammered. “I, what, who. Hold on, I will be right there.”

He hung up the phone and quickly texted Tae and Hobi to see if they did it, they both denied it but Tae had sent a bunch of smirking emojis which Jimin rolled his eyes at. Meaning he did it or had something to do with it. He stepped up to the front desk and Jisoo looked at him with a pout. “How dare you not tell me.”

Jimin just shrugged, “It's a new thing, I dunno, it's too soon to tell.”

He didn't want to say more than that, she just giggled handing over the nice lunch box, much nicer than his. He was a little shocked at the weight of it. “He must really like you to bring it all the way here. Too bad he didn't stick around.”

Jimin shook his head, taking it and walking back to his office. He caught the familiar whiff from the card off the lunch box. He took in a gasp, it was the same one who left him the flowers, it was a stronger smell now, and he could tell it was an alpha courting him. His omega inside preened at the attention, but how did he know he had no food and where he worked. Then he groaned, Tae. Tae had something to do with it.

He opened the lunch box up and the heavenly smell wafted at him. This was not from a restaurant, this was home made, packaged in nice bento boxes. He just blinked with a smile. He read the card. “Overheard you didn’t have time for food, I had some help with this one. Hope you enjoy it. You can leave the empty lunch box (or full) outside your place and I will grab it”

Jimin nibbled on his lip, obviously the person has no ill intent so the food is safe. He squirmed in his seat, this alpha was really going on out. It was more than his previous partner did for him. Making sure he had food was so simple, but being taken care of was like a key right to his heart. The small thoughtful gestures meant the most to him always. He opened one box to see fresh kimchi, rice and a fried egg over it. Sauces were tucked neatly to the side for him to decide how much or what he wanted.

The pork belly was still hot, did he make it and bring it right over? Jimin popped it into his mouth with a pleased sigh. He quickly began to eat remembering how hungry he was but how good a home cooked meal could taste. This had all the taste of home, and someone who cared. He would have to try and get face to face with this alpha and soon.

Jimin had taken the lunch box home, cleaned the containers and refilled them. Nothing crazy but simple desserts he picked up from his favorite shop. He left a note thanking the Alpha and left his number at the bottom. He wondered if he was too much as he laid in bed, maybe he should have just said thank you. Let the Alpha continue to make the moves, he sighed tossing and turning before he got out of bed and went to the front door. He swung it open but the box was gone, and instead a bag was in its place.

He blinked at it before picking it up. There was another note and of course it smelled heavily of the alpha. He giggled shutting the door. ”You are the sweetest leaving me some treats to end my day with, they were delicious and greatly appreciated. After a long day I like something soft to curl up in, hope you do too.”

A blanket was in the bag, it was not really scented itself but the bag was, it left traces on the blanket enough to make Jimin feel soothed but not too much to overwhelm him with the Alphas scent. Jimin smiled, that was thoughtful he already felt fully understood despite never having a conversation with him. Jimin went back to his room curled in the blanket quickly falling asleep.

Jimin left his apartment the next morning with the intention of going to his favorite coffee shop and almost tripped over what was waiting for him. He looked slack jawed, it was a cup from his favorite shop and a small bag. He snatched it up while taking a sip. How did he know his favorite drink, he definitely needed to yell at Tae cause the treat was his favorite too. He was glaring at his friend's door when it opened. “Oh hey Chim…wait why are you mad at me already.”

Jimin huffed. “You know who he is and have been helping him, Tae.”

Tae just smirked and shrugged. “In time my dear soulmate, but you are pleased I can tell, you smell happy. The happiest I have seen since you moved here.”

Jimin nodded and he couldn't deny it, “Even if you're helping them, it feels like they already get me.”

Tae smiled. “Truth be told, I am giving minimal information, they seem to understand you very well. Also not going to lie, he is exactly your time, you're going to swoon over him.”

Jimin rolled his eyes but laughed. “Well since I have extra time, why don't we walk together.”

Tae nodded as Jimin looped his arm through his with a dreamy sigh. “I gave him my number, so I hope he messages me.”

Tae just grinned Jimin was too busy looking down at the cup to see Tae wink at the Alpha who was peeking out his door at the interaction with a smile on his face.”

Jimin was typing away on his computer lost in his work when his phone pinged. He picked it up not thinking twice till he saw the message was from an unknown number.

Unknown: Is this Jimin?

Jimin: Who is this?

His heart was hammering in his chest he was secretly hoping it was the alpha but did not want to seem too excited.

Unknown: Flowers, Lunch and Coffee?

Jimin: My mystery Alpha?

Jimin mentally slapped himself for saying my alpha but it was too late to take it back now.

Unknown: That would be me.

Jimin: So I will just call you that til you give me a name.

My Mystery Alpha: Really not even going to try for it?

Jimin: and ruin the illusion! Never!
Jimin was giggling looking around making sure no one could see him.

My Mystery Alpha: Well can’t have that but I do have one.

Jimin: Well I am intrigued.

My Mystery Alpha: It’s Yoongi.

Jimins omega purred just at the thought of it, he was already so smitten.

Jimin: Well it is certainly a pleasure, you sure do know how to woo a guy.

Yoongi: Honestly, I haven't courted anyone before I was worried I was doing too much.

Jimin: Oh no no, the perfect amount, at least for me it is.

Yoongi: Well if I may be forward one more time, would you have dinner with me tonight?

Jimin gasped, he really wanted to see and meet the alpha, to meet Yoongi. He should before anything goes any further and they can see if they are indeed compatible or not. He nodded to himself before replying.

Jimin: When and where?

Yoongi: Do you know the make your own ramen restaurant?

Jimin grinned that he had been wanting to try it for months since it opened.

Jimin: I do, haven't yet, though I have been wanting to.

Yoongi: Meet me there at 7?

Jimin: It’s a date.

They texted throughout the afternoon planning each time his phone pinged and Yoongi's name popped up it just made him smiley and giggly, he hoped the rest of the night would go just the same and that the alpha was all he thought he could be.

Jimin had time to go home and change in between now his leg was bouncing as he filled with the sleeves of his sweater. It wasn't cold but the night air could whip across his skin and make him shiver. He was about to get off the subway and walk to the restaurant and his nerves felt like they were eating him alive. He took a deep breath as the train car came to a stop and he quickly got off, he went up the stairs and knew it was about a block away. He got closer and saw a man standing outside black hair messy but looking put together with jeans a white shirt and cardigan, never in his life has he seen a white shirt look so good on someone. He prayed that it was him as he walked closer, the man was looking the other way and it felt like his turn towards him was in slow motion.

His eyes landed on Jimin as he approached and Jimin nearly stopped dead in his tracks as a gummy smile stretched across his face, in the moment before he uttered a word Jimin knew without a doubt that he was irrevocably screwed. A deep voice called him from his thoughts “Jimin, wow aren't you even more beautiful up close.”

Jimin stammered, shaking his head. “Yoongi-ssi!”

Jimin was blushing furiously trying to worm himself into his sweater, thankful he wore it bigger than needed. Yoongi smiled gently at him. “Hyung is fine, I have a feeling we will be quite close, Jiminie.”

He offered his arm to Jimin which he took moving to Yoongi's side, he could smell him more now and the scent hit his now and had him relaxing to his core. Like every stress worry or concern he has ever had was cleaned from his body. The warmth of Yoongi in such close proximity smelling like he did, Jimin knew he bit his lip nervously.

They say fated pairs are a one in a million shot, Jimin heard the way to know was in the kiss. Seemed simple enough but the kiss would mix their scents and taste together creating something that was akin to feeling intoxicated. He knew he couldn’t just kiss him right now though everything was screaming at him too.

Instead he was guided into the restaurant and a chair pulled out, they made small talk but it felt so easy. Yoongi ordered miso ramen, and Jimin a shoyu, they both had their noodles and soft boiled eggs. Jimin opted for pork, while Yoongi had steak. They were both so pleased and ended up sharing. It was a simple date, but it was everything Jimin wanted, simple easy convo, and good food. He found himself laughing at all of Yoongi's stories, while some could see him coming off cold. Jimin could tell he was one of the warmest people he ever met.

Even though he had taken the subway to save time they lived only about a 15 minute walk from there. To spend more time together they walked home, Jimin slipped his hand into Yoongis. He wondered if he would pull away but instead Yoongi tugged him to his side, squeezing his hand gently. Jimin sighed as he leaned his head on Yoongi's shoulder. “Yoongi I think this was the best date I have ever been on.”

Yoongi chuckled. “Even if it was just cheap ramen.”

Jimin giggled, nodding his head. “Yeah, the company made it fantastic, you made it fantastic.”

Standing outside of their building Yoongi pulled Jimin around to look at him. “That is good cause I am already pretty smitten with you. “

Jimin blushed, smiling big, and he felt it coming before Yoongi moved. Like the air was charged with electricity, Yoongi's lips met his. Their kiss started off soft lips just brushing before he felt Yoongi's tongue and it made him gasp into the kiss. Their tongues brushed and Jimin felt it coursing through his body. He wanted, no he needed more of Yoongi his hands gripped his shirt feeling arm tighten around him holding him impossibly close. They didn’t want to break away but they did panting for air mirror shocked expressions.

Yoongi stared for a moment before he started to giggle and smile. He pulled away from Jimin and started dancing around happily. Jimin couldn’t help but giggle smiling, Yoongi grabbed Jimins face. “I felt it in my bones, I knew I had to talk to you, to court you Jimin. I just knew.”

Jimin nodded. “The first time I caught barely a whiff of your scent on the items you left, it brought me such a comfort. I didn't have to see you to know I was going to be a goner.”

Yoongi looked Jimin up and down, staring in awe. “My beautiful, wonderful mate. Not only did the gods grant me a mate but they made it the best mate on the planet.”

Jimin was crying and threw himself at Yoongi, hugging him tightly. He was sobbing into his chest. “I thought I would never have someone I thought after failed relationships I was doomed. I had just been waiting for you all along.”

Yoongi let out calming pheromones and Jimin relaxed in his hold. He was the happiest his ever felt despite the tears pouring down his face. He heard a yell. “What did you do to him! Let him go!”

Jimin burrowed himself into Yoongi's chest, mumbling. “Tae shut the hell up.”

Tae, who was the source of the screaming, stopped. “What? Why, you’re crying, he made you cry!”

Jungkook who was walking with him just shook his head. “Hey guys, though I will never understand how Tae understands Jimins every word and likewise.”

Jimin turned his head to reveal his big smile despite his read eyes. Yoongi ran a hand through his hair. “It’s okay baby, just take a breath.”

They watched how Jimin instantly relaxed his face still pressed tight to Yoongi. Hoseok looked between them before letting out a loud gasp. “Oh my gods, are you serious! You two, really?”

Jimin just nodded as Hoseok took them both into a hug. Tae looked affronted as he watched the scene unfold. “Does someone want to fill me in cause……”
He stopped mid sentence as everything clicked in his brain. “Did you two kiss?”

Jimin just nodded. Tae’s mouth dropped and his eyes began to water. “Are you two?”

Jimin nodded again. He apologized to Yoongi as he pulled Jimin away from him and hugged him tightly. “Oh baby, I am so happy for you. No one, and I mean no one deserves this more than you.”

Jimin was dancing around the kitchen singing while he cooked. He was making dinner for him and Yoongi. After that night they became inseparable much to Taes despair, Hoseok just patted his head every time he whined and reminded him how happy Jimin was and what a state he used to be in. He would quickly let it go but pout nonetheless. Jimin was turning the veggies in the pan when arms wound around his waist. He settled back into the comfort of the embrace. “You are home early babe.”

Yoongi nodded, humming his answer as he buried his face into Jimins neck and hair. Yoongi told him often how much his presence and scent relaxed him so Jimin often let him cling to him as much as he wanted. It helped that it often meant Yoongi left his scent on him. The two never smelled just of themselves anymore and instead had a scent that was a mix of the both of them one Jimin loved so much.

Their fated bond made their relationship bloom so quickly but Jimin wasn’t scared. All of it felt just right, him and Yoongi moved in together about 6 months after, Jimin was on a year to year lease and since he never was really in his own home it just made sense. Jimin knew Yoongi was his forever. After leaving his hold relationship and felt himself wither away now almost 2 years later he was happy to feel so whole, and even more so than when he was dating Hyungwon.

He had actually run into him with his mate. Hyungwon looked scared at first but Jimin just beamed a smile at him. “Is this them?”

Hyungwon nodded, Jimin extended a hand and was warm and welcoming. Hyungwon visibly relaxed and Jimin would tell them they were indeed perfect for each other. Jimin smiled. “So I have a secret”

Hyungwon tilted his head. “I met my mate.”

Hyungwons mouth dropped, then he smiled. “Well looks like it worked out well for both of us.”

Jimin nodded. “It did, and I was hurt but I always understood. You know that right?”

Hyungwon nodded, they hugged and parted ways. When Jimin told Yoongi, it just made Yoongi happy and asked if he got some closure he needed. Jimin nodded his head. “Yeah though I didn’t really need it, it does feel a bit better.”

Yoong just hugged him. No matter what he went through Yoongi was always there with a comforting embrace. Jimin learned that was his favorite thing, a hug from Yoongi no matter what was happening or what was going on, it felt all could be corrected by a simple hug from Yoongi. When he was in his arms, when he knew he was home and all was right with the world.

Yoongi detached himself well, Jimin finished cooking and went to clean up. Jimin set the table singing a song, he came out with the final dish setting it down noticing a black box sitting on his empty plate. His breath hitched in his chest as he picked it up, opening it, nestled inside was a simple platinum ring. Jimin pulled it out seeing an inscription inside the ring. “You know, I know”

Wounding into a circle to say it over and over. Jimin had tried to confess his love one day but in his flustered brain all he could get out was “You know” Yoongi only smiled at him saying “I know” in return. The kiss said it all they both knew they were helplessly in love with each other. Jimin heard a throat clear and spun himself around. Yoongi was down on one knee. He just smiled out his hand which Jimin took. “You know?”

Jimin just giggled, crying, nodding his head and slipping the ring on. “I know.”