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The early morning sun painted the lake in a soft, golden glow, the water calm and glassy beneath Seokjin’s small fishing boat. For Seokjin, this was perfect. A rare day off, free from the noise and chaos of their usual schedule. He’d been looking forward to this for days—just him, the lake, and the peaceful stillness of fishing. He sighed contentedly as he cast his line, settling into his seat with a satisfied smile. No interruptions. No distractions.
At least, that’s what he thought.
“Hyung!”
Seokjin nearly jumped out of his skin as Jungkook’s voice rang out, startling him from his reverie. He twisted around in the boat, eyes wide in surprise. There, standing on the dock, was none other than Jeon Jungkook—his youngest member, already bounding over with an enthusiastic grin.
“Jungkook? What are you doing here?” Seokjin asked, baffled. He had planned for this day to be his escape from the world, and Jungkook’s sudden arrival was both unexpected and unwelcome.
“Fishing!” Jungkook replied, as though it were the most natural thing in the world. With a quick leap, he hopped into the boat, rocking it slightly with his weight.
Seokjin stared at him, mouth slightly open. “You? Fishing?”
Jungkook shrugged, a playful glint in his eyes. “Yeah. Why not? I figured I’d join you. It looked… fun.” His grin stretched wider, eyes crinkling mischievously.
Seokjin raised an eyebrow, suspicion creeping into his tone. “You’ve never shown the slightest interest in fishing before. What’s this really about?”
Jungkook’s grin softened, but he quickly turned away to busy himself with a spare fishing rod. “Just wanted to spend time with you, hyung. Can’t I?”
Seokjin blinked, his annoyance wavering. How could he say no to that? It was rare for any of the members to ask for one-on-one time, and Seokjin felt a little tug in his chest at the thought of Jungkook wanting to be with him.
Still, this was his day off.
“Alright,” Seokjin sighed, settling back into his seat. “But can we at least enjoy the peace and quiet? Fishing’s about patience.”
Jungkook nodded quickly, eyes sparkling as he picked up the rod. “Of course, hyung. I’ll be quiet.”
For a few moments, it was peaceful. The gentle swish of the water, the distant sound of birds, and the occasional plop of a fish breaking the surface.
But soon, the silence didn’t sit well with Jungkook. After all, there was no action.
“Hyung, are we really gonna catch anything here? Seems kinda empty,” he muttered, his voice low but still breaking through the calm.
Seokjin kept his eyes on the water. “You just need to be patient.”
Jungkook hummed, but within minutes, he was fidgeting again. “I mean, we’ve been here for a while… You sure you know what you’re doing?”
Seokjin shot him a glance. “I’ve been fishing plenty of times, Jungkook. You don’t catch something every second.”
“Yeah, but…” Jungkook leaned forward, the teasing tone creeping back into his voice. “Maybe you’re doing something wrong.”
Seokjin’s grip on the fishing rod tightened slightly, irritation bubbling under the surface. “I’m not doing anything wrong. This is just how it is.”
“Uh-huh,” Jungkook drawled, his lips curling into a smirk. “Maybe you’re just not a great fisherman, hyung.”
Seokjin’s brow furrowed, but he tried to keep calm. “Jungkook, if you’re not interested in fishing, you don’t have to stay.”
“Who said I wasn’t interested?” Jungkook leaned in closer, nudging Seokjin with his elbow. “I’m very interested—in watching you not catch anything.”
“Jungkook,” Seokjin said, his voice growing tense. He clenched his jaw, staring hard at the water, trying to ignore the rising frustration. He had wanted peace, but Jungkook’s constant needling was wearing thin.
But Jungkook wasn’t done. “Hyung, maybe if you cast the line a little differently, or maybe if—”
“Jungkook!” Seokjin snapped, turning toward him sharply. His patience had finally run out. “Can you just stop?! I came here to relax, not to deal with your constant comments! If you can’t sit quietly, maybe you should leave.”
The words hung in the air, heavy with tension. Jungkook blinked, his face falling slightly at the sharpness in Seokjin’s voice. He had been joking—just trying to get some attention, to get his hyung to focus on him. But now, Seokjin’s scowl was deeper than ever, his tone harsher than expected.
“You want me to leave?” Jungkook asked, his voice a little quieter, tinged with hurt.
Seokjin, still agitated, sighed heavily. “I just want some peace, Jungkook. You’re making this harder than it has to be.”
Jungkook’s jaw clenched, his frustration bubbling up now. “Fine. If I’m such a bother, maybe I WILL leave.”
Seokjin glanced at him, already regretting his words. Jungkook seemed to be really upset. “Jungkook, don’t be ridiculous. We’re on a boat. Where exactly do you think you’re going?”
A dangerous spark flashed in Jungkook’s eyes. “Anywhere but here.”
Before Seokjin could react, Jungkook stood, his expression defiant, and in one swift motion, he jumped over the side of the boat.
The cold splash of water echoed around them, the boat rocking violently as Seokjin stood up, staring in disbelief at the spot where Jungkook had been.
“What the hell, are you fucking crazy, Jungkook?!” Seokjin shouted, his voice rising in panic as he watched Jungkook’s head bob up from the lake. The younger man tread water, his breath labored from the cold shock, but his expression was still filled with stubborn defiance.
“I told you,” Jungkook yelled back, “I’m leaving!”
Seokjin grabbed the oars, furiously rowing toward him, his heart racing. “Are you out of your mind? Get back in the boat right now!”
But Jungkook stayed where he was, his arms and legs moving steadily, his jaw set. “No. You wanted me gone, didn’t you?”
Seokjin’s grip tightened on the oars, desperation flooding his veins. “Jungkook, stop being so childish! This isn’t funny! This is dangerous!"
Jungkook’s arms slowed, his body visibly tiring from the effort.
“Like you care, hyung."
His voice cracked, the first sign of the tears he was holding back. “I just wanted to be with you, but all you care about is fishing.”
Seokjin’s heart clenched, guilt flooding him as he knelt closer, reaching out to grab Jungkook’s arm and pull him back into the boat. Jungkook collapsed onto the floor, shivering violently, his wet clothes clinging to him. Seokjin knelt beside him, his frustration melting into concern as he saw how small Jungkook looked, curled up and shivering.
“Jungkookie,” Seokjin began, his voice softer now, but Jungkook turned away, his shoulders trembling with the effort to hold back his tears.
“I just wanted to spend time with you, hyung,” Jungkook whispered, his voice breaking. “I miss you… but you didn’t even notice. I'm sorry for being a bother."
Seokjin’s breath hitched as the full weight of Jungkook’s words sank in. He hadn’t realized how much Jungkook needed him, how lost he felt in the chaos of their lives. “Oh, Kook,” he murmured, pulling the younger man into his chest. “I’m sorry. Hyung didn’t realize.”
Jungkook’s resolve crumbled as he felt Seokjin’s warmth envelop him, and the tears he’d been holding back finally spilled over. He sobbed into Seokjin’s chest, his body shaking with the force of it. “I just… I didn’t want to be annoying. I just wanted you to pay attention to me.”
Seokjin’s own eyes burned as he hugged Jungkook tighter, one hand gently stroking his damp hair. “You’re never annoying, Baby. I’m sorry I didn’t see what you needed. You’re my baby—you always will be. I didn’t mean to make you feel like you had to fight for my attention.”
Jungkook sniffled, his sobs quieting as Seokjin’s gentle words soothed him. Seokjin pulled back just enough to wipe the tears from Jungkook’s face, his fingers soft and careful. “Next time, just ask, okay? You don’t need to jump into a lake to get my attention.”
Jungkook gave a watery laugh, nodding as he leaned into Seokjin’s comforting touch. “Okay, hyung.”
With a sigh of relief, Seokjin turned the boat around, rowing them back to shore. Jungkook sat beside him, feeling exhausted yet comforted, the warmth of Seokjin’s presence pushing back the chill that had seeped into his bones. As they reached the dock, Seokjin helped Jungkook out of the boat, his arm steadying the younger man as he stumbled slightly,his wet clothes still heavy against him. Seokjin’s touch was gentle, and Jungkook felt a wave of warmth flood over him, momentarily pushing away the lingering sadness.
“Come on, let’s get you dried off,” Seokjin said, his voice firm yet soft as he led Jungkook to the car parked nearby. The day’s earlier tension felt miles away as Jungkook tried to shake off the water clinging to him, though it did little to warm him up.
Seokjin opened the trunk, rummaging through it until he pulled out a dry hoodie and some sweatpants he always kept for emergencies. “I knew one day this would come in handy,” he said, handing them to Jungkook with a small smile.
“Thanks, hyung,” Jungkook mumbled, his voice still a little shaky. He quickly changed, grateful for the warmth of the soft fabric enveloping him. The smell of Seokjin’s detergent was comforting, reminding him of their shared dorm and the countless moments they had spent together.
Once dressed, they got into the car, and the ride back to the dorm was filled with a comfortable silence, punctuated only by the occasional hum of Seokjin’s favorite song playing softly on the radio. Jungkook stared out of the window, watching the trees blur by, feeling the warmth of the fabric against his skin and the gentle rhythm of the music soothe his frayed nerves.
As they stepped back into the dorm, Jungkook’s heart raced, a mixture of relief and anxiety washing over him. The familiar sounds of laughter and chatter enveloped them, but the moment he caught sight of the other members, a knot formed in his stomach. He didn’t want to deal with their teasing today; all he wanted was Seokjin's warmth.
Seokjin noticed Jungkook’s hesitation. “Come here,” he said gently, wrapping an arm around Jungkook’s shoulders and pulling him close. Jungkook melted against his hyung, feeling the comfort radiate from Seokjin's body.
“Hyung,” Jungkook whispered, his voice barely audible. The warmth and safety of Seokjin’s embrace washed over him, and he clung to him tighter, pressing his face against Seokjin’s shoulder. He could feel the gentle rise and fall of Seokjin’s breath, steadying him as his heart began to calm.
“Are you alright?” Seokjin asked, concern etched on his face as he pulled back slightly to look at Jungkook. “You look shaken.”
Jungkook nodded, but the truth was, he didn’t feel fine. The earlier confrontation, the jump into the lake, and the emotional rollercoaster had drained him. He wanted nothing more than to cling to Seokjin and forget everything else.
“I just…” Jungkook hesitated, his voice trembling. “I just really need you right now.”
Seokjin’s heart ached at Jungkook’s admission. “You know I’m here for you, right?” he said softly, wrapping both arms around Jungkook and drawing him closer, as if trying to shield him from the world. “You never have to hide how you feel.”
“I don’t want to let go,” Jungkook confessed, his voice muffled against Seokjin’s shoulder. “Not now, not ever.” He tightened his grip around Seokjin’s waist, refusing to let go even for a second.
“Okay,” Seokjin replied, a gentle smile breaking through the concern in his eyes. “You can hold on as long as you need.” He stroked Jungkook’s back, comforting him as they stood together, oblivious to the world around them.
From the kitchen, the other members glanced over, their teasing smiles faltering at the sight. Jungkook was usually so lively and playful, but now he looked vulnerable and small, clinging to Seokjin like a lifeline. They exchanged knowing glances, realizing this was a moment that required understanding rather than mockery.
Taehyung, who had been about to make a joke, stopped short. “Uh, maybe we should give them some space?” he suggested, nodding toward Jungkook and Seokjin.
“Yeah, let’s grab some snacks and leave them alone for a bit,” Jimin added, quietly ushering the others away from the scene.
As they quietly retreated to the living room, Jungkook remained wrapped up in Seokjin’s embrace, feeling the warmth and safety surround him. The momentary silence between them was soothing, allowing Jungkook to gather his thoughts.
“Hyung, I was so stupid,” Jungkook said, pulling back just enough to meet Seokjin’s gaze. “I shouldn’t have jumped in the lake. I just wanted you to notice me, and I didn’t know how else to get your attention. I'm sorry."
Seokjin shook his head, brushing a few damp strands of hair from Jungkook’s forehead. “You’re not stupid. You just wanted to feel close to me. But you don’t have to do crazy things to get my attention. You just need to be you.”
“I know, but I feel so lost sometimes,” Jungkook admitted, his voice cracking again as he buried his face back into Seokjin’s shoulder. “I don’t want to feel like this anymore.”
Seokjin tightened his hold, cradling Jungkook against him. “You won’t. I promise. I’ll always be here to remind you that you’re not alone.” He could feel Jungkook trembling, the weight of the day still heavy on his shoulders. “Just hold on to me, okay?”
Jungkook nodded, feeling the warmth of Seokjin’s words wrap around him like a cozy blanket. He held on even tighter, as if letting go would mean losing the comfort and safety he so desperately craved.
They stood there for a long moment, Jungkook refusing to pull away, and Seokjin holding him steady, feeling the younger man’s heart start to calm. The chaos of the dorm faded into the background, and all that mattered was this moment between them.
“Come on,” Seokjin finally said, breaking the silence. “Let’s go make some ramen. We need to warm you up.”
With a reluctant sigh, Jungkook loosened his grip just enough to allow Seokjin to lead him into the kitchen. But even as they walked, he kept his hand on Seokjin’s arm, wanting to feel that connection. The other members had returned to their activities, but Jungkook didn’t care about the teasing that would surely come; he was too focused on the solace Seokjin provided.
“Hyung, can I help?” Jungkook asked, his voice a bit steadier now, though he still clung to Seokjin’s side.
“Of course, but let’s make sure we don’t spill everything this time, alright?” Seokjin chuckled, a playful glint in his eyes.
“I’ll do my best!” Jungkook grinned, finally feeling a flicker of joy return. He moved to the counter, but as he began gathering the ingredients, he stayed close to Seokjin, brushing against him every chance he got.
“Are you sure you don’t want me to do that?” Seokjin teased, smirking as he leaned against the counter, watching Jungkook flit around.
“Nope, I’m fine right here.” Jungkook beamed, leaning in to steal a quick kiss on Seokjin’s cheek before returning to his task.
Seokjin’s heart raced at the unexpected gesture, and he chuckled, shaking his head in disbelief. “You’re insufferable.”
“I know,” Jungkook laughed, his eyes sparkling with mischief. “But you love it.”
“I do,” Seokjin admitted, his voice softening. He moved closer, wrapping an arm around Jungkook’s waist, pulling him in for another quick hug. Jungkook melted against him, feeling the warmth of their connection wash over him like a comforting tide.
As they worked together in the kitchen, Jungkook felt a sense of normalcy return, the laughter and teasing of the other members fading into the background. Seokjin’s presence grounded him, and he found comfort in their shared moments.
Once the ramen was ready, they settled down at the table, Jungkook seated right next to Seokjin, who made sure he had an extra bowl.
“Here, this is for you,” Seokjin said, nudging the bowl closer to Jungkook. “I know you like it spicy.”
“Thanks, hyung,” Jungkook said, a warm smile lighting up his face. He took a bite, the familiar flavors bursting in his mouth, and he couldn’t help but lean his shoulder against Seokjin’s, feeling a surge of happiness.
As the meal continued, Jungkook found himself unable to let go of Seokjin’s side, his heart racing with gratitude for this moment. He didn’t care if the others teased him for being clingy; right now, he needed this—needed Seokjin.
“Are you okay, Kook?” Seokjin asked softly, looking down at Jungkook with concern as he noticed the younger man’s quiet demeanor.
Jungkook nodded, lifting his head to meet Seokjin’s gaze, his eyes sparkling with sincerity. “I’m more than okay. I just… I really love you, hyungie.”
Seokjin’s heart swelled at the words. “I love you, too.And I’m right here, baby. I’ll always be here for you.”
With a newfound sense of comfort and security, Jungkook let out a small sigh, finally feeling at ease. In that moment, he knew he could face anything, as long as Seokjin was by his side.
.